The Eiffel Tower is one of the world’s most emblematic monuments, and it’s entirely possible to admire it without having to pay admission to climb to the top. Here are the best places to admire it for free, with practical tips on how to get the best view.
1. The Champ-de-Mars
Located right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Champ-de-Mars is a vast green space ideal for taking photos and picnicking while enjoying an unobstructed view of the Iron Lady.
📍 Address: 2 Allée Adrienne Lecouvreur, 75007 Paris
🕒 O pening hours: Accessible 24h/24
💡 Tip: Come at sunset to see the Tower illuminated and admire the twinkling every hour after dark.
2. Place du Trocadéro
One of the most famous spots for admiring the Eiffel Tower! From the stairs of the Palais de Chaillot, you’ll have an unbeatable view, perfect for spectacular photos.
📍 Address: Place du Trocadéro, 75016 Paris
🕒 O pening hours: Accessible 24h/24
💡 Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and get the best photos without too many people around.
3. Bir-Hakeim Bridge
This two-level bridge is perfect for viewing the Eiffel Tower from a unique angle. It’s particularly popular with photographers for its metal architecture and perspective over the Seine.
📍 Address: Pont de Bir-Hakeim, 75015 Paris
🚇 Metro: Line 6, Bir-Hakeim station
💡 Tip: Ideal at sunrise or in the evening for a magnificent reflection on the Seine.
4. The quays of the Seine
Strolling along the quays between the Pont de l’Alma and the Pont d’Iéna offers a magnificent, unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower. You can sit on a bench or walk while enjoying the scenery.
📍 Address: Berges de Seine, between Pont de l’Alma and Pont d’Iéna
💡 Tip: In the evening, admire the golden reflections of the Eiffel Tower in the water.
5. Belleville Park
Less well-known but offering a panoramic view of Paris, this park on the heights of the capital allows you to see the Eiffel Tower in the distance, in a quieter, greener setting.
📍 Address: 47 Rue des Couronnes, 75020 Paris
🕒 O pening hours: 7 a.m.-8.30 p.m. (opening hours vary according to the season).
💡 Tip: Climb up to the belvedere for an unobstructed view of the whole of Paris.
6. From Montmartre and the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur
From the top of the Montmartre hilltop, you can see the Eiffel Tower in the distance, with a panoramic view of the city.
📍 Address: Place du Tertre, 75018 Paris
💡 Tip: For the best view, climb the steps of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.
7. From Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
The panoramic terrace of the Galeries Lafayette department store offers a splendid view of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the background. And it’s totally free!
📍 Address: 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris
🕒 O pening hours: 10am-8pm (closes later during holiday periods)
💡 Tip: Climb to the 8th floor for an even more spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower and the rooftops of Paris. Come at sunset for a magical atmosphere.
Conclusion
There’s no need to pay to see the Eiffel Tower! Paris is full of free spots offering splendid views of this iconic monument. Whether you’re at the Trocadero, on a bridge, at the top of a park or on a terrace, you’ll always find a perfect vantage point from which to admire and photograph the Iron Lady.
🔍 Bonus: For an original view, take metro line 6 between Passy and Bir-Hakeim – the aerial passageway offers an ephemeral but impressive panorama!