26 Places To Go For The Best Views of The Eiffel Tower (+ A Free Map to Find Them) - Dreams in Paris (2024)

Looking for places to get the best views of the Eiffel Tower? This post will guide you to the right places, whether known or hidden gems.

The Eiffel Tower is indubitably the most famous landmark in Paris! Every year, millions of tourists flock from all across the world to look at the famous Iron Lady.

As someone who has lived in Paris for years and visited the Eiffel Tower more times than I can count, I can say it’s beautiful, magnificent, and worth all the trips people make.

In fact, some people travel to Paris just to see the Eiffel Tower and then leave the city (which I don’t recommend since you’ll miss out on so many other things to do and see) which shows how impressive it is in people’s minds.

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Even though most people’s dream is to climb it, which you absolutely have to do to get the best views of Paris, you can’t see the tower itself from above!

And here’s where my local knowledge comes in handy. There are some other incredible places you can go to enjoy the beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower.

So if seeing the Eiffel Tower from all angles and different views is on your Paris bucket list, in this post, I will show you the places to go for the best views of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

I’ve visited all these places over the years so you can trust that you’ll get the very best Eiffel Tower views you’re looking for!

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook.
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter, a travel neck pouch, and comfortable walking shoes.
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Where to get the best views of the Eiffel Tower

In no particular order, here are the best places to see the Eiffel Tower!

1. From Trocadero for the best Eiffel Tower view

Located opposite the Eiffel Tower on the other side of the Seine, Trocadero is probably the most famous and the best place to view the Eiffel Tower.

Its prime location gives direct views of the tower from different angles depending on whether you see it from the steps, the garden, or the fountain of Warsaw.

My suggestion is that you see the tower from all these places as all the different views of the Eiffel Tower will be absolutely stunning.

Since this place is so famous and a popular Instagram photo spot with the Eiffel Tower, be ready to find lots of crowds.

How to get here: Take either Metro line 6 or 9 and stop at Trocadéro

2. From the Notre Dame Cathedral

The climb of the 378 steps of the notable Notre Dame Cathedral will treat you to impeccable views of the Eiffel Tower which in my opinion, is one of the best places to spot the ion lady and take magical photos.

Opening Hours:The Cathedral is open daily from 10:00 PM – 6:30 PM from April to September but stays open up to 11:00 PM on Saturdays and Sundays in July and August. However, it’s open from 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM from October to March.

3. From the Arc de Triomphe Observation deck

If you read my previous post about the best views in Paris, you know that I believe that the Arc de Triomphe offers the best city views.

On top of the 360 degrees you get on the city plus the view of the 12 roads diverging from the arc, the observation deck will give you the best view of the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Opening Hours:Arc de Triomphe is open from 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM from 1st April to 30th September and from 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM from 1st October to 31st March.

How to get here: Either take Metro line 1 or 2 and stop at Charles de Gaulle – Étoile

Pro tip* The Arc de Triomphe is a popular landmark and you’re likely to find long queues. To beat them, you can buy yourself an online skip-the-line entry ticket to get fast access to the observation deck.

4. From Pont Alexandre III

One of the other places that offer a great Eiffel Tower view is Pont Alexandre III.

The bridge is not only beautiful; the most beautiful in my opinion, but it also offers perfect views of the Eiffel Tower with the Seine River and the opposite side of the bridge right in front of it. Nothing beats such a photo!

On top of the views, Ponte Alexandre is near many popular attractions like the Grand Palace and the Petite Palace and it’s within a walk’s distance of the Louvre museum.

So after taking in the Eiffel Tower best view, be sure to stroll around and see those popular places for a great day in Paris.

How to get here: Either take Metro line 13 and stop at Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau or line 8 and stop at Invalides

Related post: What to wear in Paris in summer

5. From Champs de Mars

Just next to the tower itself is a beautiful green park known as Champs de Mars! You might think that you may not get beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower since it’s right next to it but you’ll be surprised!

To enjoy the views from here, even more, you can visit Paris in springtime to see the most spectacular Paris cherry blossoms, or better yet pack yourself a picnic and chill right next to the tower.

But regardless of what time of the year you visit, Champs de Mars will treat you to breathtaking Eiffel Tower views.

How to get here: Take either Metro line 6 and stop at Bir-Hakeim or RER C and stop at Champs de Mars-Tour Eiffel

6. From the MontparnasseTower Terrace

This might be considered the ugliest building in the whole of Paris (it was also once voted the 2nd ugliest in the world) since it doesn’t fit well with the architectural design of other buildings but the Eiffel Tower views it offers are out of this world.

And since it’s theoretically directly opposite to the Tower with no other building obstructing, you’ll get clear views of the Eiffel Tower.

Opening hours:The observation deck of Montparnasse Tower is always open from 9.30 AM –11.30 PM all year round.

Psst… Don’t forget to grab this skip-the-line ticket to avoid the queues.

How to get here: Either take Metro line 13 or 12 and stop at Montparnasse Bienvenüe.

Related Post: Best Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower

7. From a Seine Cruise

Honestly, there is no trip to Paris that is complete without a cruise on the Seine! While on the cruise, you can see almost all the popular attractions in Paris including the Eiffel Tower.

You literally get an up-close look at the tower while feeling the cool breeze from the River.

You can go on this afternoon seine cruise but to enjoy the views of the Eiffel Tower, even more, I’d suggest going for this evening dinner cruise where you’ll see the tower sparkle for 5 minutes at every top of the hour! It’s truly a magical sight worth watching.

Related post: What to pack for Paris

8. From Rue De L’Université for the best Eiffel Tower street view

Popular for being an Instagram photo spot in Paris, Rue de L’Université offers the best Eiffel Tower street view.

With a view of the cobblestoned street, the beautiful architecture, and the Eiffel Tower in the background, this Parisian street is the ultimate gem for a view of the Iron Lady.

It might be “just” a street but it has become increasingly popular so you can expect to encounter crowds especially since it’s right to the tower itself. You can choose to go in the morning or in the late afternoon to beat the crowds.

How to get here: Either take metro line 8 or 13 and stop at Invalides

9. Rue De Monttessuy

For another street view of the Eiffel Tower, head to Rue De Monttessuy. It’s about 5 minutes from Rue De L’Université so you can easily visit these places in one go.

It’s becoming a bit more popular these days compared to when I first visited it, but it’s still pretty unknown compared to most places we’ve seen so far.

How to get here: Take Metro line 9 and stop at Alma-Marceau

10. From The Top Of Sacré Coeur for an Eiffel Tower view from Montmartre

Tucked away in beautiful Montmartre at the top of the hill, Sacré Coeur also known as Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris provides some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower if you brave up to climb the 300 steps since there is no elevator at this grand church.

You can pretty much see almost all of Paris from the top of the Sacré Coeur but there is nothing as impressive as a view of the Eiffel Tower.

And don’t just go for the view, the church itself is incredibly beautiful so spend some time visiting it to appreciate the architecture.

Opening hours:Sacré Coeur is open from 8:30 AM – 8:00 PM from May to September and from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM from October to April.

How to get here: Take Metro Line 2 and stop at Anvers or Metro Line 12, and stop at Abbesses, although the former is much closer.

11. From The Steps Of Sacré Coeur

If you’re not in good shape or you just don’t feel like climbing the 300 steps of the Sacré Coeur, don’t worry, you can still get a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower from the Church’s steps.

The views may not be as impressive as the ones from the top of Sacré Coeur but you can be sure to see the iron lady.

And a big plus is that you won’t need to pay the fee to climb the towers of the church which makes this one of the free things to do in Paris.

Related Post: Best Things to Do in Montmartre

12. From Pont de Bir-Hakeim

Formally known as Pont de Passy, Pont de Bir-Hakeim which crosses the Seine River gives some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower.

Its prime location next to the tower and its design with the steel columns next to it and lanterns in between make for a perfect photo spot of the Eiffel Tower.

Actually, the impressive Eiffel Tower views it offers made Pont de Bir-Kakeim feature in popular Hollywood movies like Inception and National Treasure: Book of Secrets.

How to get here: Either take metro line 6 and stop at Passy or RER C and stop at Champs de Mars- Tour Eiffel.

13. From the Observation deck of the Pompidou Centre

Pompidou Centre may be known for its unique architecture of the inside-out kind of style or even its art and culture that it showcases in the museum but this place also offers stunning views of the Eiffel tower.

A big plus about Pompidou Centre is that, unlike other museums where you have to pay for both the gallery and the views, Pompidou Centre offers a views-only ticket known as the Panorama ticketwhich takes you directly to the viewpoint.

This is perfect for people who want to take in the Eiffel Tower view without visiting the museum especially if they’re not into art.

Opening hours:The museum opens from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM/7: 00 PM from 1st April to 31st October and from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM from 1st November to 31st March.

Psst… Before you go, make sure that you book your entry ticket in advance to beat the queues. If you don’t have it yet, you can buy it here. Alternatively, you can book this guided tour to learn everything you need about this incredible place.

How to get here: Either take M11 and stop at Rambuteau or M14 and stop at Châtelet on M1 and stop at Hôtel de Ville

14. From Rue Saint- Dominique

If you want to get a view of the Eiffel Tower without missing the street Paris charm, then head to Rue Saint-Dominique in the 7th arrondissem*nt, particularly next to Le Recrutement cafe.

Any time is great to view but if you take a walk along this pretty street at night and wait for the sparkles of the tower at every top of the hour, then you’ll know why I think Rue Saint-Dominique offers the best Eiffel Tower street view.

How to get here: You can either take M8 and stop at La Tour-Maubourg or M13 and stop at Invalides

Related post: How to plan a picnic in Paris

15. From a metro

Yes, you can catch a view of the Eiffel Tower from a train! It might be brief but it’s one of the most exciting places!

The train is going too fast, the seine is right there and the anticipation of seeing it or even the pressure of missing to take a photo makes it even more exciting.

I know I was super ready with my phone in hand to snap a pic the first second I saw it and boy I was over the moon excited. But the good news is that I was able to take a quick pic on the first go.

There is something about that experience that pumps up the adrenaline, especially if you’re seeing the Eiffel Tower from the train for the first time.

But it’s not on just any metro, but the metro line 6 (between Bir Hakeim and Passy) headed to the Eiffel Tower if you want to go directly to Champs de Mars, and not the Trocadero side.

16. From the Pantheon’s Dome

Another place to go for Eiffel Tower views which is usually ignored by most people is the Paris Pantheon which is located in the Latin Quarter.

From here you can expect to get uninterrupted views of the Eiffel Tower since no tall building is in front of it.

And on top of that, you won’t have to compete with crowds of people at the top of the dome since they only allow 50 people to climb it at a time.

Opening Hours:The Panthéon is open from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM from 1st October – 31st March and from 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM from 1st April – 31st September.

How to get here: Either take M10 and stop at Maubert – Mutualité or RER B and stop at Luxembourg

Pro tip* Visiting the Patheon itself is possible all year round but if you want to climb the dome for the best views of the Eiffel Tower, it’s only possible from April to October.

17. From Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Rooftop

Are you traveling to Paris on a budget but still want to enjoy some beautiful views, then Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is the best place to see the Eiffel Tower for free.

This famous department store opens up its 7th floor to the public to admire the Iron Lady from above.

And if you visit at sunset, you’ll be treated to some of the best sunsets you’ve ever seen. Nothing beats a sunset picture with the Eiffel Tower in it.

Opening hours:The terrace is open to the public all year round from 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

How to get here: Either take M9 and stop at Chaussée d’Antin — La Fayette, M3 and stop at Opera or Saint-Lazare on M13

18. Printemps Haussmann Rooftop Terrace

While most people head to Galeries Lafayette as the best rooftop terrace to get views of Paris since it’s a more popular department store compared to its counterparts, another place you can’t miss is Printemps Haussmann! It

You’ll get a view of the Paris Opera, Madeleine church, La Defense, Sacre Coeur, and the Eiffel Tower.

The best part is that it doesn’t have to be one or the other! You can visit them both since they’re right next to each other!

How to get here: Either take M3 or M9 and stop at Havre-Caumartin

Related post: What to wear in Paris spring

19. From Passerelle Debilly

Originally constructed to accommodate visitor traffic during the World War era, Passerelle Debilly is an arched footbridge that connects pedestrians from one side of the seine to the other – from Quai de New York to the Quai Branly.

And in the process of crossing from one end to another, you’ll be served with some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower.

You’ll also get a glimpse of the roof of the Grand Palais on the opposite side.

How to get here: You can either take M9 and stop at Iéna or RER C and stop at Pont de l’Alma.

20. From Some Paris Hotels

If you’re lucky to sleep in some hotels near the Iron Lady, you’ll be able to get a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.

Imagine waking up to the view of the Eiffel Tower with the sun rising – magnificent, right? But be sure to save up because hotels with Eiffel Tower views don’t come cheap.

However, even if you don’t sleep there, some hotels allow non-residents to access their observation decks to see the tower as long as they keep the drinks coming in.

Some of the hotels with an Eiffel Tower view include;

• Shangri-La: This is one of the most famous hotels in Paris that offers incredible views of the Eiffel Tower. It is a high-end hotel since it was once a residential palace for Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew. << Book your stay at Shangri-La Hotel for amazing views >>
• Hôtel Balzac:Located in the famous Champs-Élysées district in Madeleine, Hôtel Balzac offers stunning views of Paris with a focus on the Eiffel Tower and the beautiful roofs of Paris. <<You can book a room at Hôtel Balzac from here for those amazing views >>
• Hotel Le Meurice:When you think of history and incredible views, think of Hotel Le Meurice! located in the 1st Arrondissem*nt between Place de la Concorde and the Louvre Museum, this amazing hotel offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.
• Hotel Wilson Opera: Located next to the Opera, this hotel offers large windows that will give you a view of the Eiffel Tower.
• Hôtel Eiffel Petit Louvre: Located in the 15th arrondissem*nt, this hotel is perfect for budget travelers who want to take in some Eiffel Tower views.
• Other hotels that offer incredible views of the Eiffel Tower include;Hotel Le Walt which is a 10-minute walk from the Trocadero Gardens, Le Metropolitan Hotel for a mirror-shape pic of the tower, Hotel la Comtesse and so many others.

However, if you don’t feel like staying at a hotel, there are so many vacation apartment rentals in Paris where you can get incredible views of Paris or even opt for these Airbnb with Eiffel Tower views.

21. From Avenue Rapp

Usually missed by many tourists, Avenue Rapp which is hidden in the 7th arrondissem*nt is the best place to view the Eiffel Tower.

As you walk along Avenue Rapp, take your time to locate a little park (known as a square Rapp) and that’s where you’ll be surprised by the Eiffel Tower view. It is one of the best places to see the Eiffel Tower.

While still on this street, head to 29 Avenue Rapp, to see one of the few remaining Art Nouveau buildings known as the Lavirotte Building and its intriguing architectural designs.

How to get here: Either take metro line 9 and stop at Alma-Marceau or line 8 and stop at École-Militaire

22. Rue du Général Camou

Just opposite the Lavirotte Building, you’ll find this quiet street! It has a beautiful Eiffel Tower view yet almost missed by all tourists. I was practically alone at this spot when I first visited.

How to get here: Take metro line 9 and stop at Alma-Marceau

23. From Paris rooftop bars or just any rooftop

Just like any charming city, Paris is full of rooftops and rooftop bars that provide an incredible view over the city of love. Just imagine sipping on Parisian Wine as you take in the Eiffel Tower views!

There are so many rooftop bars in Paris that offer incredible views of the Eiffel Tower but a few you can look for include;

• Terrass” Hôtel Bar: Situated at the top of Terrass” Hôtel Montmartre, this rooftop bar will treat you to spectacular views of Paris while you enjoy luxury at its best.
• La Terrasse At Hôtel Raphaël Rooftop: If you’re looking for the best views of the Eiffel Tower accompanied by some of the best co*cktails in the city, then head to La Terrasse At Hôtel Raphaël Rooftop.
• The 43- Roof Top: Bar Terrace of The Holiday Inn Paris: Located on the roof of Hôtel Dame des Arts, this rooftop bar will not disappoint when it comes to serving Eiffel Tower views.

24. From Île aux Cygnes

For those who don’t know, Paris has islands and this is one of them! Although it’s famous for housing the biggest replica of the Statue of Liberty in Paris, its surrounding area also offers views of the Eiffel Tower.

It’s a little bit further away from other places mentioned in this article, but it’s worth visiting in my opinion.

How to get here: You can either take M6 and stop at Passy, or M10 and stop at Charles Michel

25. Avenue De Camoens

Another cool Eiffel Tower photo spot to visit is Avenue de Camoens in the 16th Arrondissem*nt.

Since the viewpoint is located at the top of a staircase, it’s easy to miss it if you don’t know what you’re looking for.

As with other spots, you’ll find several Instagrammers and photographers here.

At the bottom of the staircase, there is a pink marble monument dedicated to poet, Luís de Camões, that is also worth admiring.

How to get here: Either take M9 or M6 and stop at Trocadéro

26. Place de la Concorde

If you’re near the Louvre museum, you can still enjoy a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower from Place de la Concorde.

This is the largest square in Paris with stunning fountains and an Egyptian Obelisk, although, it is probably most famous for being the execution place of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution. I recently did a walking tour around this place so you can go check it out afterwards.

How to get here: You can either take M12, M1,or M8, and stop at Concorde

Map Of The Best Eiffel Tower Views

Final Thoughts on where to get the best views of the Eiffel Tower in Paris

There are so many places that offer incredible views of the Eiffel Tower but these are just a few you shouldn’t miss even if you’re in the city for just a week.

And as always, remember that Paris is a popular destination with lots of visitors and the best way to beat the crowds at the places mentioned in this post is by either buying skip-the-line tickets or visiting in the morning or in the evening hours.

Have you gone “views chasing” in the city of love? What was your favorite place to see the Eiffel Tower?

Let me know in the comment section which places you’ve been to on this list and if you went to one that is worth checking out but it’s not on this list, also leave it in the comments section and I will add it.

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• The Complete Guide to Visiting Paris in Spring
• Where to Find Cherry Blossoms in Paris
• What to Wear in Paris in Spring
• The best Parisian desserts you should try
• What to do in Paris at night
• Where to find the best views of Paris
• Big mistakes to avoid in Paris

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