Paris is famously one of the most picturesque cities in the world. In my opinion, it is best seen from above from one of the many vantage points scattered across the city. Some of these are fairly obvious, but there are a few that might just surprise you. If you are heading to the City of Lights in 2025, check out this post to help you capture the very best views. Enjoy!
Where to get the best views of Paris
1. Eiffel Tower – The Classic Icon
Perhaps most obvious of all, the Eiffel Tower has some of the best Parisian views imaginable. You’ll find 360-degree panorama views of the city at a whopping 330 metres above the city. You can see all other the iconic landmarks nearby, such as the Seine River, Montmartre and the Arc de Triomphe. However, I would argue that part of the charm of Paris is the Eiffel Tower itself, so this may not be the best one if you are looking to have that iconic view.
📍 Champ de Mars, 7th Arrondissement
💰 Ticket required (€18–€30 depending on the level)
2. Arc de Triomphe – Best for Sunset
If you want that all-perfect view of the Champs-Élysées, the best view has to from the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Whilst there are 284 steps between you and the view, you do get an incredible view of the city with some of the most iconic snapshots available just here. In my opinion, this is the best place for a sunset photograph of Paris. If you wait a bit longer, you’ll also be able to see the lights of the Eiffel Tower every hour, on the hour.
📍 Place Charles de Gaulle, 8th Arrondissement
💰 Ticket required (€13), free for EU residents under 26
3. Montparnasse Tower – The Best Eiffel Tower View
For the unrivalled, best view of the Eiffel Tower, then I would suggest the Montparnasse Tower’s observation deck. Firstly, it should be said that the tower itself is not the prettiest. However, once you climb to the 56th floor you’ll have one of the highest open-air views in Paris. The views are spectacular all day, however once again I’m a sucker for sunset; the City of Lights comes alive after dark.
📍 33 Avenue du Maine, 15th Arrondissement
💰 Ticket required (€20–€25)
4. Sacré-Cœur – A Free Hilltop Panorama
One of the most famous views of Paris has to be at Montmartre’s Sacré-Cœur Basilica. You’ll get to appreciate one of the most romantic views in the city from below or, if you’re brave, head up to top of the dome. For this view, I love the pink light that bathes the monuments of Paris at sunrise, especially in the winter or spring.
📍 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 18th Arrondissement
💰 Free (Dome access costs €6)
5. Printemps Haussmann Rooftop – A Hidden Gem
One of my favourite free viewpoints has to be the rooftop terrace of Printemps Haussman, which is a famous department store. You’ll find this near the Opéra Garnier, and you can see some of the most iconic landmarks – including the Eiffel Tower – but without the crowds. Plus, in the department store you’ll be able to grab a delicious coffee to enjoy the view with.
📍 64 Boulevard Haussmann, 9th Arrondissement
💰 Free entry
6. The Panthéon – Overlook the Latin Quarter
The top of Panthéon in the Latin Quarter has an incredible view of Paris, and it is easily one of the most unique in the city. You’ll get a 360-degree view which includes the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Once again, it is a lesser-known location and you can beat the crowds to get a unique photograph.
📍 Place du Panthéon, 5th Arrondissement
💰 Ticket required (€11.50), free for EU residents under 26
7. Quai de la Tournelle – A Riverfront View of Notre-Dame
The Notre-Dame Cathedral has to be one of my favourite buildings in Paris. It is beautiful, timeless and, of course, iconic. If you want some of the best views and photos of this magnificent building, then I would head to Quai de la Tournelle on the Left Bank. Once again, try this location early in the morning or as the sun sets.
📍 Quai de la Tournelle, 5th Arrondissement
💰 Free
8. Parc de Belleville – A Local’s Favorite
The more I visit Paris, the more unique viewpoints I find which are virtually unknown to the average tourist. Parc de Belleville in the 20th Arrondissement has an incredible vantage point above the city. You can see many of the key landmarks in the distance and, more importantly, can find peace and tranquilité in this busy city.
📍 Rue de Belleville, 20th Arrondissement
💰 Free
9. The Seine River – Views from the Water
Seeing Paris from above is great, but seeing it from the edge of a boat along the Seine is magical. You can catch boats easily throughout Paris, where you’ll be greeted with an ever-changing view of the city as you float down. Once again, why not try this at night to see all the lights.
📍 Various departure points along the Seine
💰 Tickets from €15
10. The Big Wheel at Place de la Concorde – A Moving Panorama
In the winter, check out the Grande Roue (Ferris Wheel) at Place de la Concorde to get an exciting view of Paris. It is only available at some points of the year, so make sure that you check ahead to avoid any disappointment.
📍 Place de la Concorde, 1st Arrondissement
💰 Ticket required (€12–€15)
Final Thoughts | The Best Paris Views
I hope that this post has inspired you to dive into photography whilst you explore arguably the most beautiful European capital. Paris is a fantastic destination for a weekend away and there are also plenty of day trips from Paris to explore too. As with all of these posts, I would love to see your photographs that you take whilst you explore. If you have any questions about Paris or anything in this post, please let me know.
Which of these viewpoints is your favourite? Let me know in the comments! 😊✨
*cover image source: landenkerr.com
