Where to Find the 20+ Best Eiffel Tower Views in Paris

Last Updated on 23rd November 2020 by Sophie Nadeau

Love it or hate it, there’s no denying that the most iconic monument in Paris, if not all of France, is the Eiffel Tower! And so when you’re visiting the French capital, one of the best things about exploring Paris is that you never know quite what you’ll stumble upon La Tour Eiffel next! Here’s your guide on where to find the 20 best Eiffel Tower views.

Whether you’re looking for some more offbeat locations in the city of love- but still want the Iron Lady experience– then it’s worth noting that there are plenty of unusual places to see the Eiffel Tower. Otherwise, there are always plenty of iconic Parisian rooftops from which to spy La Tour Eiffel…

Editor’s note: If you’re looking to go up the Eiffel Tower itself, then you’ll want to book your tickets well in advance so as to save time on the day. Book your skip-the-line Eiffel Tower Direct Access with Summit Access in advance here.

#1 A Seine River Cruise

Whether it’s nighttime in Paris or the sun is shining brightly, one of the best way to enjoy the delights that Paris has to offer is to book a Seine River Cruise. Typically lasting for a couple of hours, these guided sightseeing tours give you the chance to enjoy the city from another perspective, including, of course, the Eiffel Tower! Interested? Some of the best options include this Bateaux Parisiens 2-Hour Lunch Cruise and, for a romantic time in the evening, this 2-Hour Seine River Dinner Cruise with Options.

#2 rue Saint-Dominique

For those who wish to find one of the most iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, you need to look no further than the oh-so-Haussmannian rue Saint-Dominique. Situated in the 7th arrondissement of the city, the prettiest view of the city is to be found at night, on the hour, every hour, when the tower glitters for a five-minute free show.

#3 Eiffel Tower from Parc de Saint-Cloud

Far from the bustling crowds of Paris and high above the city, the Parc de Saint-Cloud is an oasis of calm a mere metro ride away from the city. Stroll around the gardens and wander along the long herbaceous borders. This green space also makes for the perfect place in which to enjoy a picnic in the summer months!

After all, the gardens are all that remains of a once-grand château that dominated the park. Today, the place is a haven for cycling enthusiasts and is the perfect location to head to on a sunny day. On one particular summer visit to the park, we even managed to find wild strawberries…

#4 Eiffel Tower from Georges Pompidou Centre

Although the Georges Pompidou centre is much more famous for its abundance of modern artwork (think Picasso, Kandinsky, and Braques to name but a few…), the view from the top should not be missed. Situated in the very heart of Le Marais area of Paris, the centre is a great place to capture some of those iconic Parisian rooftops (particularly at sunset).

If you want to skip out on the museum and simply enjoy the Eiffel Tower view instead, then it’s perfectly possible to simply buy a rooftop pass (those under 26 who are residents of the EU can go for free). If you’re planning on visiting the entire complex, then purchase your Pompidou Centre Ticket here.

#5 Eiffel Tower from the Metro

There may be a fair few metro stations below ground in Paris, but of course, the only way to see the Eiffel Tower is above ground. And so the metro line running between Bir Hakeim and Passy should not be missed if you’re looking for unusual places to see the Eiffel Tower.

The metro line is 6, between Passy and Bir Hakeim. If you do choose to capture this image, be sure to stand with your camera at the ready as you’ll only catch a glimpse of the Iron Lady for a few seconds at most (meaning that this is one of the hardest Eiffel Tower views to capture)…

#6 Eiffel Tower from the café at Printemps

Editor’s note: the Deli-Cieux Café at Printemps is now permanently closed. Instead, in its place is a fine-dining establishment known as La Perruche. Though notably more expensive than its predecessor, the indoor and outdoor dining spaces offer stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

If there’s anywhere I could return to over and over again to spot the Eiffel Tower from, it’s café Deli-Cieux. Situated on the roof of the Printemps department store, not far from Opera, it’s the perfect place to grab a couple of coffees, use the fast WiFi and enjoy the view; all this for less than €5.

#7 From Parc de Belleville 

Situated in the very heart of the 20e arrondissement of Paris, not far from the Père Lachaise cemetery, Parc de Belleville is where actual Parisians come to hang out. With a great view, its own secret vineyard and plenty of green space, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic in the summer months.

#8 From the Parvis de Trocadéro

I’ve said this before countless times, and no doubt I’ll say it again, but the best place to spot the Eiffel Tower at sunrise is from the Parvis de Trocadéro. Oh, and from the water mirror (Fountain of Warsaw) below. Throughout the year, the sun rises up, from behind the Eiffel Tower, filling the sky with candy colours.

Plus, if you choose to visit Trocadéro in the morning, rather than the evening, you’re sure to miss out on the crowds of tourists. For more information on how to enjoy the best sunrise view of the Eiffel Tower, check out this guide to visiting La Tour Eiffel at sunrise.

#9 From the top of the Paris Pantheon

Of all the unusual places to see the Eiffel Tower in Paris, seeing the Dame de Fer from the top of the Pantheon is probably my favourite. It’s here you’ll find the iconic Fouquet’s Pendulum (or, a replica at least!), and many famous French people entombed.

One of the highest honours a French citizen can receive is to be interred in the Pantheon. The likes of Voltaire, Marie Curie and many more have all found their final resting places within the marble walls of the Paris Pantheon. For more information, check this guide to the Paris Pantheon.

#10 Eiffel Tower from the top of the Arc de Triomphe

There’s no denying that the best view of the Eiffel Tower in all of Paris must be from the top of the Arc de Triomphe! I’ve previously said that you shouldn’t go up the Eiffel Tower when visiting the city. Mainly because it’s in the centre of a green space and so you can’t really see those iconic rooftops, but also partly because you can’t see the Eiffel Tower if you’re on it!

#11 Eiffel Tower from a rooftop, any rooftop!

And if you’re still stuck for ideas, almost every rooftop in the city offers views onto the Eiffel Tower. There are actually laws in place preventing the construction of skyscrapers and tall buildings within the city limits. This is why the majority of tall buildings in the city lie in La Defense area of Paris. These decrees also mean that almost every spot of the city offers good views onto the Eiffel Tower!

#12 Eiffel Tower view from your… own home?

If you’re anything like me (self-confessed Paris obsessed), then the likelihood is that you may well have more than a few souvenirs lying around the house. Why not put that postcard in a frame and place it on your desk? Or add some French-themed stickers to your mood board?

I’ll be the first to admit that I have well and truly tried to bring Paris home to the UK with me (vintage Paris maps on the walls, Eiffel Tower bedspread, French-inspired clothing, all of the Eiffel Tower memorabilia!!)

#13 Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace

I’ve said it before and no doubt I’ll say it again: one of the best free Parisian views can be found at the very top of the Galeries Lafayette flagship store along Boulevard Haussmann. The rooftop terrace offers 180-degree views over the city, including onto Opera Garnier, plenty of Hausmmannian architecture, and of course views of the Eiffel Tower.

Free to visit, the terrace is open year ’round, though is closed during particularly bad weather (such as rain or snow). Visit the store itself at any time of the year and you can enjoy the stunning Art Deco cupola with its impressive stained glass window and indoor terraces. Come Christmastime, a giant Christmas tree is erected in the heart of the central store dome, with a quirky and new theme for the tree each year.

#14 Eiffel Tower from Tour Montparnasse

The tallest structure in Paris (with the exception of the Eiffel Tower, bien sûr), is that from the top floor of Montparnasse Tower. Located in the 15th arrondissement of the city, this 59-floor skyscraper is pretty controversial in the city on account of how ‘ugly’ locals regard this 1960s build to be.

Though most of the tower is private, closed off to the public, and is used as office space, the top floor and the rooftop offer stunning panoramic views of the city, including a fantastic Eiffel Tower view. Head to the top and you can enjoy a beer, a 360-degree view of the city, or simply sit back and watch the world go by. Purchase your Tour Montparnasse tickets here.

#15 Eiffel Tower from the Parvis du Sacré-Coeur

When in Paris, the one district you absolutely cannot miss is that of Montmartre. Otherwise known as the 18th arrondissement of the city, this is where visitors and tourists alike will soon discover the ‘Paris’ of old that everyone so raves about.

Between small house museums and cobbled lanes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this whimsical Parisian district. Not only that, but Montmartre also happens to be home to the magnificent Sacré-Coeur, and a large open space in front of the ecclesiastical building which offers stunning views over Paris, including of the Iron Lady.

#16 Eiffel Tower from Pont de Bir Hakeim

A favourite among wedding photographers, Pont de Bir Hakeim is characterised by its light-filled arches and unparalleled views of the Eiffel Tower. Best seen early in the morning, when the light is as its best, this bridge also offers a viewing platform of Paris and the River Seine roughly halfway along the bridge.

#17 Champ de Mars

Perfect to enjoy cherry blossom season in the springtime, Champ de Mars is also home to some of the best magnolia trees at the same time of the year. Popular all year round, this green space resides below La Tour Eiffel and is especially enjoyed when it comes to Parisian picnics in the summer!

#18 Pont Alexandre III

Often cited to be the most beautiful bridge in the world, Pont Alexandre III is easily one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris. And not just because the sumptuous early 20th-century structure is in itself incredibly beautiful. Instead, the bridge arches its way across the Seine and offers views of many iconic Parisian landmarks, including of Les Invalides, Petit Palais, and the Tour Eiffel.

#19 Avenue Rapp

If you’re looking for a beautiful morning walk in Paris, then you simply need to head to Avenue Rapp. Square Rapp and Avenue Rapp can be found in the heart of all the action. Overlooking the Eiffel Tower and all Haussmannian architecture in style, this hidden gem of the 7th arrondissement is a pretty escape from the hustle and bustle of other tourist hotspots in the area.

#20 Passerelle Debilly

Spanning the River Seine, the pedestrian footbridge of Passerelle Debilly was constructed in 1899 and opened just in time for the World Fair of 1900. Built so as to serve as a pedestrian footbridge connecting the two sides of the Seine, today the bridge offers one of the best Eiffel Tower views in Paris!

#21 The Eiffel Tower as seen from Notre Dame

Editor’s note: Due to a terrible fire at Notre Dame in April 2019, the French ecclesiastical building is closed for renovation works and repairs until further notice. However, the cathedral can still be admired from fairly up close and from various vantage points around Paris, including on Île de la Cité itself.

With its flying buttresses and world-famous gargoyles, there are few Cathedrals in France, nor indeed in Europe, quite as iconic as that of Notre Dame. Made famous thanks to a Victor Hugo novel of the 1800s, one of the best Eiffel Tower views in Paris can be found if you pay the small fee to go all the way up to the towers and enjoy the panoramic view from the top.

#22 From the banks of the River Seine

If you’re wondering ‘can you see the Eiffel Tower from the Seine?’ then I have great news for you! Indeed, you can enjoy views of La Dame de Fer from all along the River Seine. The view begins from Pont Neuf and then the Eiffel Tower can be spied all the way along the banks, particularly on the right bank (rive droite) as the Eiffel Tower is located on the left bank (rive gauche).

#23 Père-Lachaise Cemetery

The largest cemetery, and technically the largest park of intra-muros Paris is that of Père-Lachaise, which is to be found in the 20th arrondissement of the city. No one quite knows how many people are interred in the graveyard, though some estimates put the figure at up to 6 million souls. As well as burials, in a little-visited corner of the cemetery, you’ll find one of the best Eiffel Tower views in all of Paris.

#24 Pont des Arts

Of all the bridges in Paris (and there are technically over 30), Pont des Arts is easily one of the most famous of them all thanks to its central location and former status as the ‘love lock bridge’. Spanning a stretch of the Seine between the Louvre Museum and the Institut de France, the bridge is one of the most beautiful spots in Paris from which to enjoy beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower.

#25 Best Paris hotels with Eiffel Tower views

If you want to make your visit to the City of Light that much more special, then you may well consider booking a hotel/ B&B or luxurious accommodation in the heart of the city. So whether you’re looking for a more budget option or you’re searching for that special place to celebrate an important occasion, some of the best Eiffel Tower views can be found at the following hotels:

Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel

This well-reviewed mid-range hotel can be found in the 15th arrondissement of Paris. Amenities of this accommodation include parking, breakfast, a fitness centre on-site, and Free WiFi. Some rooms also offer hotel views of the Eiffel Tower. Check rates and availability here.

Citadines Tour Eiffel Paris

Located in the primarily residential and quiet district of the 15th arrondissement of Paris, this French hotel is just a fifteen-minute walk away from the Eiffel Tower and offers amenities such as parking, free Wi-Fi, pet-friendly rooms, and more. Check rates and availability here.

Le Relais Saint Charles Paris

For a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower from a hotel, you simply need to book yourself into a room at Le Relais Saint Charles. Affordable and not too far away from the Champ de Mars, highlights of this hotel include an airport shuttle bus, free Wi-Fi, and a 24-hour reception. Check rates and availability here.

Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel

Pullman Paris offers affordable luxury in the very heart of the city. Well-reviewed across accommodation booking websites, amenities of this Parisian place to stay include a pool, air-conditioning, and close proximity to public transit. Check rates and availability here.

Shangri-La Hotel

For a true taste of luxury during your stay in Paris, you’ll want to book yourself into a room at the Shangri-La Hotel. This five-star accommodation can be found in the 16th arrondissement of the city and boasts facilities such as a pool, fantastic service, and some rooms offering views of La Tour Eiffel. Check rates and availability here. 

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