There is nothing more magical than a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower in Paris. You can see this grand attraction from miles away, but we scouted out some of the best spots in the city to soak it in and snap a picture.
Rue Saint Dominique
If you're near Park Esplanade des Invalides, walk down this quaint street towards the Park Champ de Mars for some stunning views of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Along the way, be sure to check out these cute restaurants: Le Recrutement, Au Canon, and Malabar (one of my favorites!)
We were lucky enough to get a cute little Airbnb apartment on this street. Although we couldn't see it from our window, a view of the Eiffel Tower on the horizon was just a short walk down the street.
Champ de Mars
The Champ de Mars is the park beneath and surrounding the Eiffel Tower. In my opinion, the best views are actually from the ground up. If you haven't done the elevator ride to the top of the Eiffel Tower, it can be fun to check that off your bucket list. But if you want some awesome photos of the tower itself, stay on the Champ de Mars grounds.
The park can be crowded at times, so heading to the park at sunrise can really pay off. The main strip is a hot spot for people to hang out and have a picnic. The grass really shows that wear and there are some unattractive wire fences around certain parts, so when you're taking photos, aim up for a clean shot. Explore the different paths with beautiful trees and landscaping and frame your Eiffel Tower photo with some greenery.
Carousel Near the Pont D'Lena
After enjoying the massive spectacle up close from the park, make your way to the Pont D'Lena. A fun spot to stop for photos (or take a ride if you're traveling with kids) is the carousel near the bridge.
Place du Trocadero
Named in honor of a famous battle, Place du Trocadero is a hotspot for tourists to view the Eiffel Tower. This area can get pretty crowded, especially in summer. Avoid crowds by visiting during sunrise or early morning, or get creative with your shots to avoid taking an accidental group photo with strangers. There are a few great spots around Place du Trocadero to snap a photo with the Eiffel Tower:
Stop for a photo op in front of the Trocadero fountains, and you'll get a spectacular water show shot with the Eiffel Tower in the background.
The steps have long been a photo favorite for visitors. Angle up and take your shot portrait rather than landscape to avoid getting other people taking the same photo on either side of you in the shot.
Climb the steps and take in the view from the top of the platform area. Some of the view in the center is obstructed by gates and railings (trying unsuccessfully to keep people off the ledges). However, on the side of the platform area are some hedges. Snap a photo here to add some green scenery and cover the crowds of people below.
Avenue de Camoens
This quiet street is a well-kept secret in the fashion and travel blogging community. Just a few blocks from Place du Trocadero, it's home to some stunning apartment buildings. But walk all the way down the street to the lookout on the end and you'll get this awesome view.
Along the Seine
Take in a view of the Eiffel Tower from Paris' many beautiful bridges. Walk along the Seine at dusk, sunset, and during the Eiffel Tower light show (top of every hour starting after sunset — typically 8 p.m., 9 p.m. 11 p.m., and 12 a.m.; lasts 5 minutes). Some of the best bridges along the Seine for a view and a photo of the Eiffel Tower are Pont de Bir-Hakeim and Pont Alexandre III. The main bridge leading from the Eiffel Tower to Place du Trocadero, Pont de L'Alma, is typically very crowded. However, walk a few blocks off from the bridge to Port Debilly and capture a gorgeous view of the attraction between the trees.
Montparnasse Tower
We didn't have time to visit the Montparnasse Tower, but judging from some of my favorite pictures of the Eiffel Tower, it's a spectacular view. The viewing platform is open 365 days a year from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Tickets are 18 euros per adult, and you can buy them in advance here. The view from this tower gives you a unique perspective over the city, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
L'Arc de Triomphe
Last but not least: the famous Arc de Triomphe. Opening hours for the Arc de Triomphe are 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. each day, and entry costs 12 euros. The Arc de Triomphe is an important Paris landmark and top photography attraction on its own. But the top of the Arc de Triomphe is also a popular spot to view and snap a photo of the Eiffel Tower. Check out this gorgeous view!
Bottom Line
No matter where you go in Paris, you'll discover lovely viewpoints and perspectives to catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower. To locate all these spots listed above, check out the Google My Maps I created for Paris. You'll find all these spots under the “Paris Views: Tour Eiffel” tag. Enjoy these stunning views of one of the most beloved attractions in the world.
We just purchased an apartment in the 7th and finally get to go in 2 weeks. Thanks for these sights we will definitely check them out!!
Awesome to hear David, enjoy!!
Awesome! Love your perspective and lovely photos. As well as recommendations!
I’ve never read such a creative article on different perspectives seeing the Eiffel Tower. Again, enjoyed your writing. Can’t wait for your next piece on Paris.
Ted, thanks so much! I was excited to write this article — I had so much fun running around Paris in search of views! Thanks for your support.