You betcha! You betcha!
It’s a question I often hear: “Does seeing the Eiffel Tower ever get old?”
My answer is always a resounding no! There’s something magical about spotting Paris’ iconic landmark, whether I’m strolling through my neighborhood in the 7th arrondissement or exploring a new corner of the city.
Discovering fresh perspectives of this architectural wonder is a fun game I play with myself. It’s like a treasure hunt, and every new view is a prize!
Favorite Spots for Eiffel Tower Views
Paris has captured my heart ever since I moved here five-and-a-half years ago. My first Parisian home was a tiny studio in the 8th arrondissement, and guess what? I had a front-row seat to the Eiffel Tower.
Every hour, I’d watch the magical light show dance across the tower. It was my nightly entertainment, especially when money was tight. Even after all these years, I still love to wander around the city, rediscovering old favorites and unearthing new hidden gems that showcase the Eiffel Tower in all its glory.
So, buckle up, because I’m about to share eight of my absolute favorite spots to admire this Parisian icon. From open-air rooftops to tucked-away alleyways, prepare to be amazed!
Rue Saint-Dominique: A View from Home
If you follow any Parisian Instagrammers, you’ve probably seen this view a million times. And if you’re a regular viewer of my Instagram Stories, you’ve probably seen it even more than you can handle! For two whole years, this little stretch of Rue Saint-Dominique was my home.
Every time I stepped out of my building, I was greeted by this incredible sight. It’s no wonder I’m a little obsessed with it. Let’s just say, my apartment had a pretty amazing view!
Place de la Concorde: A Historic Perspective
Many of the best places to see the Eiffel Tower are also iconic Paris landmarks themselves. Take Place de la Concorde and Rue de Rivoli, for example.
At the corner of the Tuileries Gardens, you’ll find the famous Lion au Serpent statue. Standing there, surrounded by history, you can almost feel the energy of the past. And then there’s the Eiffel Tower, majestic and breathtaking in the distance.
The view from along the Tuileries fence is extra special because you can also see the Luxor Obelisk, the Place de la Concorde fountains, Assemblée Nationale, the Grand Palais, Hôtel de Talleyrand, Jeu de Paume, and Hôtel de Crillon. It’s like a Parisian masterpiece!
Galeries Lafayette: Rooftop Bliss
My readers know I have a soft spot for Galeries Lafayette. It’s no surprise then, that the rooftop on the 7th floor of this department store is one of my favorite spots to admire the Eiffel Tower.
The Terrace at Galeries Lafayette offers spectacular 180-degree views of Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, Palais Garnier, and the city’s rooftops. It’s a view that will leave you breathless. And the best part? Weather permitting, the rooftop is open daily and free to access.
Palace Hotels: Parisian Luxury
I’m a sucker for hotels, especially the gorgeous ones in Paris!
France has a special designation for hotels with exceptional history and luxury: “Palace.” These Palace hotels boast some of the most incredible views of the Eiffel Tower from their rooms, restaurants, and bars.
A few of my favorites include the Four Seasons George V, Plaza Athénée (aka the hotel from Sex in the City!), Shangri-La, Le Bristol, Le Meurice, The Peninsula, and La Réserve. And while it might not be a Palace, I absolutely adore Hôtel Raphael, located right next to The Peninsula.
Rue Berton: A Hidden Gem
Rue Berton is one of my secret spots in the city. This narrow, cobblestoned street is nestled in the side of a hill, surrounded by lush greenery.
It feels like you’re in a tiny French village, if it weren’t for the Iron Lady standing tall between the buildings. It’s one of the few places where you can sneak a photo of the tower without a single person in sight.
Head to where Rue Berton passes alongside the Auguste Perret building for a truly iconic view. It’s a little bit of magic tucked away in the heart of Paris.
Trocadero: A Scenic Stair Climb
Step off the train at the Trocadero metro station and stroll along Avenue du President Wilson. Near Palais de Tokyo, you’ll find a set of stairs on the right side of the sidewalk.
These stairs offer one of the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower. They’ve served as my Stairmaster on many occasions. The reward for the climb? The view of Madame Eiffel, with the historic Parisian buildings in the foreground. It’s worth the sore knees, I promise!
Rue de l’Universite: A Parisian Perspective
There’s nothing quite like viewing the Eiffel Tower from a location where everyday Parisian life is happening.
Rue de l’Universite is a long road that runs through the 6th and 7th arrondissements. It’s one of the city’s most prestigious streets, lined with beautiful and luxurious buildings.
That’s why the corner of Rue de l’Universite and Avenue de la Bourdonnais is one of my favorite spots to see the Eiffel Tower. The Haussmanian buildings frame the Iron Lady like an antique gilt frame.
The view is even more magical at night, when the windows of the Parisian apartments glow in the foreground, and the Eiffel Tower shines brightly behind. It’s like a scene from a movie!
Square Rapp: A Secret Oasis
Square Rapp is one of the most secluded places to view the Eiffel Tower.
Walk down Avenue Rapp, and you might just miss the entrance to the square. After all, the ornate Jules Lavirotte building on the corner catches everyone’s attention. But if you’re looking for a quiet spot to admire the Eiffel Tower, keep going!
Square Rapp is like a hidden oasis in the city. The surrounding buildings feature ornate architecture, wrought iron terraces, and other unique architectural details. It’s truly a sight to behold.
And the Eiffel Tower, perfectly centered between the two corner buildings, is the cherry on top! It’s a view that will stay with you long after you leave.
Eiffel Tower Views: A Never-Ending Journey
There you have it – eight of my favorite places to see the Eiffel Tower. I have countless others, but I can’t share all my secrets just yet!
But know this, every time I wander through the streets of Paris, I’m on the lookout for new and exciting perspectives of this iconic landmark. The journey of discovering these views is never-ending, and I can’t wait to see what I find next.
