The best view of Paris (hint: not from the Eiffel Tower)
Climbing the Eiffel Tower remains a mythical experience. But if you’re looking for the perfect photo of Paris, you want the Eiffel Tower to appear in your frame. That’s why discerning travelers opt for other viewpoints: the Montparnasse Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Sacré-Coeur dome or the rooftops of department stores.
🌆 Tour Montparnasse: the picture-perfect postcard
At a height of 210 meters, the panoramic terrace of the Tour Montparnasse offers a 360° panorama of Paris: the Invalides, the Seine, the Louvre and, above all, a majestic Eiffel Tower at the center of the picture. Less crowded than the Eiffel Tower, it offers a fluid and often more pleasant experience.
Opening hours: daily from 9.30 a.m. October to March: 10.30pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 11pm (Friday, Saturday and holiday eves). April to September: closes at 11.30pm. Last elevator: 30 minutes before closing time.
Prices: from approx. €20.50 per adult (purchase online, more expensive at the ticket office). Address: 33 avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris.
Tip: come 30 to 45 minutes before sunset to take advantage of the “golden hour” and see Paris fall into the illuminated night.
🏛️ Arc de Triomphe: the perfect axis
At the top of the Arc de Triomphe, you’re at the heart of a star formed by twelve avenues, with a sublime central view of the Champs-Élysées, La Défense and the Eiffel Tower. It’s one of the most photogenic panoramas at sunset.
Opening hours: April to September, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Tuesdays from 11 a.m.). October to March: 10 a.m. to 10.30 p.m. (Tuesdays from 11 a.m.). Last admission 45 minutes before closing time.
Prices 2025: €22 (June 2 to September 30, €16 on Wednesdays), then €16 from October 2025 to March 2026. Free admission for under-18s and 18-25 year-olds from the European Union.
⛪ Sacré-Coeur dome: bohemian panorama
The Butte Montmartre is already a free viewpoint from the basilica’s forecourt. But for an even more impressive 360° panorama, climb up to the Sacré-Coeur dome.
Opening hours: daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last entrance at 6.30 p.m.). Access is by staircase only (approx. 280 steps).
Admission: adults €8, children under 15 €5, groups (≥20 people) €6 per person.
Tip: combine this climb with a stroll around Montmartre at dusk, then head back down to Abbesses.
🛍️ Free terraces: Galeries Lafayette & Printemps
Galeries Lafayette: on the 8ᵉ floor, the roof terrace offers a free view of the Opéra Garnier, the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré-Cœur. Address: 40, boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris.
Printemps Haussmann: its summer terraces, generally open from May to September, overlook the Eiffel Tower. Address: 64 boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris.
🗼 And the Eiffel Tower?
Climbing the Eiffel Tower remains an iconic experience, especially at night. But bear in mind that you won’t see the Iron Lady herself there in the landscape.
Times: vary according to the season, generally from early morning to late at night. The glitter lasts for 5 minutes every hour after dark.
Prices: depending on the floor chosen (2ᵉ or summit), age and staircase or elevator option. Book your tickets online to avoid the queue.
🗺️ 3 mini-tours to admire Paris
📷 “Postcard” sunset: Climb to the Tourparnasse before sunset, dine afterwards at a local brasserie, then finish the evening at the Champ-de-Mars to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle.
🌟Symmetry & lights: Climb to the Arc de Triomphe at the end of the day, walk down the illuminated Champs-Élysées and finish with a cocktail on a rooftop.
🎨 Bohemian spirit: Visit the Sacré-Coeur dome before closing time, stroll Place du Tertre at dusk and head back down to Abbesses.
✅ Checklist before going up
- Check the weather and visibility.
- Check seasonal schedules and time of last entry.
- Book your tickets online.
- Pack a light jacket: it’s often chilly up high.
- Carry a microfiber cloth for the windows and an external battery for your phone.
✨ Conclusion
The best view of Paris isn’t necessarily from the Eiffel Tower. Montparnasse, the Arc de Triomphe, the Sacré-Coeur or the free rooftops offer equally magical panoramas. Choose the one that suits your style: romantic, bohemian, practical or iconic. Either way, Paris promises an unforgettable experience.