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Visit Marco Polo Square to experience the blend of historical and modern elements of Tianjin. The square offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences. Enjoy the beautiful European-style architecture, stroll through the pedestrian zones, and take photos at the iconic fountain. It’s also a great spot for shopping and sampling local delicacies.
Marco Polo Square is located in the former Italian Concession in Hebei District, Tianjin. It is the only Italian concession in modern China and the only Italian concession ever established outside of China. The unique Marco Polo Square complex, comprised of Italian-style garden villas, was built over a period of eight years, from 1908 to 1916.
The Statue of Peace is located in the center of the square. It was built to commemorate the victory of the First World War and was designed by the famous Italian sculptor Giuseppe Boni. The square consists of the Statue of Peace and six typical southern Italian Mediterranean-style villas. The main sculpture includes a fountain pool, a base, Roman columns, and a statue of the Goddess of Peace. It is 13.6 meters high and all made of granite. The upper part of the base is decorated with four European-style statues. The top of the column is a bronze statue of the Goddess of Peace with wings spread out, holding an olive branch, symbolizing the eternal theme of "friendship and peace."
Warm temperate semi-humid continental monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, the climate will be more comfortable in spring and autumn
Recommended visit: 1 hour
free
All day
Marco Polo Square is named after the famous Venetian explorer who is said to have passed through Tianjin. It represents the influence of European architecture on the city during the late Qing Dynasty. The square is a prominent cultural and commercial landmark in Tianjin, reflecting the city's historical significance as a center of trade and foreign influence in China.
Marco Polo Square is centrally located in the Heping District of Tianjin. It is easily accessible by public transportation, with the nearest metro station being the Tianjin Railway Station (Line 1). You can also take a bus or a taxi to the square. Walking from nearby landmarks such as the Ancient Culture Street is possible.
Marco Polo Square is open 24 hours, but most shops and restaurants operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the early morning or late evening when it is less crowded, especially during weekdays.
There is no entrance fee to visit Marco Polo Square. However, you will need to pay for any shopping or dining you choose to do inside the square.
No advance booking is necessary to visit Marco Polo Square. The square is a public area with no restrictions on access.
It typically takes around 1-2 hours to explore Marco Polo Square, depending on your interest in shopping, dining, and photography. If you plan to visit multiple shops or spend time at the fountain, you may want to allocate additional time.
The must-see highlights include the stunning fountain at the center of the square, the European-style architecture, and the variety of shops and boutiques. Be sure to explore the nearby cafes and restaurants for local treats.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and audio guides are generally not offered. However, it’s possible to hire a local guide if you are interested in a deeper historical understanding of the area.
The best photography spots are near the central fountain and the surrounding European-style buildings. The grand entrance gate and the pedestrian streets also provide picturesque views. Evening visits allow for great nighttime photography with lights reflecting off the buildings.
Start by exploring the central fountain, then walk around the perimeter to enjoy the architectural details of the square. Stop by the shops and cafes for a relaxing break, and finish by exploring the nearby streets for more local culture and shopping options.
While there are no specific light shows, the square is beautifully lit at night, providing a great atmosphere for evening visits. The square’s lights and architecture create a lovely setting for nighttime strolls and photography.
The square can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning or later in the evening during weekdays.
There are restrooms available inside the square, as well as plenty of food stalls, cafes, and restaurants. There are also several shops selling a variety of goods, including local souvenirs and clothing. Water and rest areas are provided in the seating sections.
Marco Polo Square is mostly accessible for elderly, children, and disabled visitors, though some areas may have slight inclines. Wheelchair accessibility may be limited in certain parts, so it is advisable to check for specific needs ahead of time.
Most shops and restaurants in Marco Polo Square accept mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) and credit cards. Cash is still accepted but not as widely used, especially for smaller purchases.
Inside the square, you will find a variety of dining options, including Chinese and international cuisine. Nearby, there are also numerous restaurants and cafes offering local Tianjin snacks and traditional Chinese dishes.
There are vegetarian and vegan food options available at several restaurants in Marco Polo Square. Additionally, there are halal food options nearby, especially in the Muslim-friendly restaurants in Tianjin.
Nearby accommodations include the Tianjin Marriott Hotel, the Renaissance Tianjin Hotel, and various budget hotels and hostels in the area, making it convenient to stay close to the square.
Nearby attractions include the Ancient Culture Street, the Tianjin Eye, and the Haihe River area. These landmarks can easily be combined for a full day of sightseeing in Tianjin.
Yes, there are several souvenir shops inside Marco Polo Square, selling items such as traditional Chinese arts, silk products, and unique local crafts like tea sets and porcelain items.
After visiting Marco Polo Square, you can continue your trip via taxi, bus, or metro. The Tianjin Metro Line 1 is nearby, and taxis are readily available. You can also take a walk along the Haihe River to visit other nearby landmarks.
