Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre
Paris Expo Porte de Versailles is Europe's largest exhibition centre by visitor numbers and France's second largest by surface area. Located in the 15th arrondissement, on the border of Issy-les-Moulineaux and Vanves, it hosts more than 200 trade shows, fairs, conferences and public events each year across over 210,000 square metres. Opened in 1923 for the Foire de Paris, it has modernised through the decades, becoming the Arena Paris Sud for the 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Whether you're attending a trade show, a conference or a public exhibition, Porte de Versailles remains one of the must-visit venues in Parisian life.
What to see at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
The venue brings together eight pavilions, two auditoriums and thirty-two meeting rooms, with a year-round programme mixing professional and public events.
- The Foire de Paris, a historic and popular fixture at the venue since it opened
- The Salon International de l'Agriculture, one of the most closely followed events each year
- The Mondial de l'Auto, a benchmark event for motorsport enthusiasts
- Viva Technology, a major international gathering for innovation and digital technology
- Temporary cultural exhibitions, including large-scale immersive or archaeological shows
- Pavilion 7, converted into a conference centre, one of the largest in Europe with its three auditoriums
Appart'City Montparnasse Vaugirard
Ideally located in the 15th arrondissement, Appart'City Montparnasse Vaugirard is the closest aparthotel to Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. Just a few metro stops away on line 12, with no changes needed, it puts the venue within 10 to 15 minutes' reach. A practical choice for visitors attending trade shows or public events who want to minimise travel time.
Fully equipped studios and apartments, 24/7 reception, parking, coworking space, laundry, luggage storage. Pets welcome.
Appart'City Paris Gare de Lyon
Appart'City Paris Gare de Lyon offers a well-connected alternative, around 30 minutes from Paris Expo Porte de Versailles by public transport. It particularly appeals to visitors looking to combine their trip to the venue with direct access to the TGV stations (Gare de Lyon, Gare de Bercy) and the rest of the capital.
Fully equipped studios and apartments, 24/7 reception, parking, coworking space, laundry, luggage storage. Pets welcome.
What to see nearby
- The Montparnasse Tower, whose observation deck offers one of the finest panoramic views over Paris
- The Luxembourg Gardens, a few minutes away by metro, for a green break in the heart of the Left Bank
- Montparnasse station, a major hub for TGV connections to western and south-western France
- Parc André Citroën, a large green space along the Seine, ideal for a walk or a run
- The 15th arrondissement and its shopping streets, between Parisian bistros and world cuisine
FAQ
Where is the Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre located?
It's located at 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles, in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, on the border of Issy-les-Moulineaux and Vanves.
How do you get to the exhibition centre from Appart'City Montparnasse Vaugirard?
The venue is reachable within a few minutes by metro or tram from the Vaugirard district, with Porte de Versailles station as the main arrival point.
What are the best-known events held at Porte de Versailles?
Notable events include the Foire de Paris, the Salon International de l'Agriculture, the Mondial de l'Auto and Viva Technology, alongside numerous trade shows and public exhibitions.
How many visitors does the venue welcome each year?
The venue receives more than 7 million visitors a year, across around 200 trade shows, conferences and events.
Why choose Appart'City Montparnasse Vaugirard over a traditional hotel?
The residence offers apartments equipped with a kitchenette and a workspace, suited to both short business stays linked to trade shows and longer visits, all while staying close to the exhibition centre and the lively Montparnasse district.
Does the exhibition centre have a sporting use?
Yes, it hosted volleyball, table tennis, weightlifting, handball, boccia and goalball events during the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, under the name Arena Paris Sud.
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