It’s a well-known fact: Paris is a city of romance. And for many, the Eiffel Tower is the embodiment of that very feeling. This iconic structure, known as “La Dame de Fer” (the Iron Lady) in French, is a must-see for any visitor to the City of Lights.
But what’s the best way to experience this majestic marvel? I recently had the opportunity to explore Paris with my husband, and we discovered several unique perspectives on this famous landmark. From the grand esplanade of Place Du Trocadero to a leisurely scooter ride along the Seine, each view offered a different glimpse into the tower’s captivating beauty.
A Grand Parisian Theatre
Our Parisian adventure started with a stay in the chic 16th arrondissement. We made our way to the Place Du Trocadero, a sprawling expanse directly across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower. It was like stepping into a scene from a movie – children whirled paper helicopters in the air, the aroma of fresh crepes filled the air, and everyone was busy capturing the moment with their cameras.
From this vantage point, the Eiffel Tower looked like a grand stage set, standing tall against the velvet sky. We felt like we were witnessing a performance put on just for us. This, I realized, is why many consider the Place Du Trocadero their favorite spot to admire the tower.
Illuminations and Twinkling Lights
As the evening deepened, we were treated to an unexpected spectacle. The Eiffel Tower, a silent giant just moments before, suddenly burst into life! Thousands of twinkling lights, arranged in a mesmerizing pattern, lit up the structure in a dramatic sequence. It was the “Illuminations”, a five-minute light show that takes place on the hour from dusk until 1 am.
We were captivated by the dancing lights, and the view from the Trocadero terrace only enhanced the magic. As we walked towards the steps leading down to the Trocadero Gardens, the tower seemed even more prominent. The golden statues of the Palais de Chaillot, a majestic building constructed for the 1937 World’s Fair, added a touch of elegance to the scene.
Exploring Paris by Scooter
The next day, we decided to explore Paris in a more adventurous way. We rented scooters, a suggestion from our 22-year-old friend, and set off to see the city under the starry sky. Initially, I was a little hesitant to navigate the Parisian streets on two wheels, but with our friend’s reassurance, we decided to take it slow.
The Louvre looked even more magnificent in the stillness of the night, devoid of the usual crowds. We continued our journey, stopping to marvel at the ornate architecture of the Palais Garnier, the stunning opera house. As we rode along the right bank of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower reappeared in the distance, its silhouette a familiar friend.
We stopped to rest at Le Grand Palais, enjoying the break from the scooters. While a fun experience, I found the scooters a bit nerve-wracking. The views were worth the effort, though. Especially when we stopped to take photos with the Eiffel Tower as our backdrop.
The Seine: A Romantic Canvas
As we continued along the Seine, the view grew more enchanting. The tower’s twinkling lights were reflected in the river, creating a mirror image of beauty. We found a spot near the Pont de l’Alma (Alma Bridge) and enjoyed the serene scene with few other people around.
The Right Bank of the Seine, we realized, offered a different perspective on the Eiffel Tower. It was a place to appreciate its grandeur from a distance, and the lights of the river, the boats gliding by, and the twinkling stars overhead only added to the romance of the moment.
We snapped some photos, capturing our little Parisian trio: Me, Sean, and La Tour Eiffel. This walk along the Right Bank is a must-do for any visitor to Paris, and it can be as short or as long as you wish. For a shorter stroll, begin at the Pont Alexander. And if you’re only interested in the view, simply disembark at the Alma Marceau Metro station and walk down to the Seine. You’ll be well-positioned for a stunning view and great photo opportunities.
Parisian Bistro Charm
No trip to Paris is complete without a taste of its culinary delights. We dined at Le Procope, a traditional French bistro recommended by a Parisian friend. It was a delightful experience, and I highly recommend ordering the Duck Confit or Coq au Vin, quintessential Parisian bistro fare.
The journey to Le Procope took us on a scenic Metro ride on line 6. The train crossed the Seine on the Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Bir-Hakeim Bridge), offering an unexpected and breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower illuminated against the night sky. It was an unforgettable moment, and even a simple Metro ride felt magical in Paris.
Cocktails with a View
For a special cocktail experience in Paris, the concierge at our hotel, Le Dokhan’s, recommended The Peninsula Paris. This luxurious hotel, built in 1908, boasts a rich history. It served as a field hospital in World War I, German headquarters during the Nazi occupation, and even offices for the French Ministry of Defense.
The hotel’s rooftop bar, Le Rooftop, is on the 6th floor, offering panoramic views across the 16th arrondissement. In one direction, you can see Montmartre; in another, the Eiffel Tower. And just around the corner is the Arc de Triomphe, where you can also enjoy stunning views of the tower.
Le Rooftop is a luxurious experience, with a minimum spend of 26€ per person. It might seem pricey, but for a special cocktail in a special place, it’s worth the splurge. The atmosphere is charming, the views are breathtaking, and the experience is unforgettable.
A Seine River Dinner Cruise
My final encounter with the Eiffel Tower was on a dinner cruise along the Seine with Bateaux Parisiens. I had enjoyed a daytime Seine cruise on a previous trip, but this time I wanted to experience the magic of the river under the stars.
The cruise took us away from the Eiffel Tower at first, but it was well worth the wait. The final moments of the cruise offered spectacular views of the tower, especially when a slight shower made the lights shimmer and reflect in the water. We were able to enjoy this enchanting scene as we disembarked, leaving Paris with a sense of wonder and a heart full of memories.
From the grand esplanade of the Place Du Trocadero to a scenic scooter ride along the Seine, each view of the Eiffel Tower offered a unique and memorable experience. From the magical Illuminations to the serene ambiance of the Right Bank, Paris is a city that embraces romance and beauty, and the Eiffel Tower is its crowning jewel.
