The Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Paris and one of the most famous landmarks in the world. It was built for the 1889 World’s Fair and has become one of the city’s top tourist attractions, welcoming over 7 million visitors each year. Standing at a height of about 300 meters, the Eiffel Tower is a stunning sight that can be seen from all over Paris. This makes it a perfect backdrop for some truly amazing views! Keep reading to discover 12 of the best places to admire the Eiffel Tower.
Iconic Views: The Best Spots for Eiffel Tower Photos
The Trocadéro Gardens are arguably the most popular spot to see the Eiffel Tower. The gardens are perched on a hill with a dedicated platform offering fantastic views of the iron lady. During warmer months, the fountains and cannons create a spectacular display, shooting jets of water over 150 feet. It’s quite a sight to behold.
Tip: Get there early to avoid the crowds and capture some incredible photos, especially during sunrise.
Just a short walk from the Trocadéro is the Avenue de Camoëns, a hidden gem offering a quintessential Paris view. This street is lined with beautiful Haussmann-style buildings and cobblestone streets, with the Eiffel Tower as the star of the show. It’s much quieter than the touristy Trocadéro, making it my personal favorite spot to admire the Eiffel Tower.
Relax and Enjoy: Views with a Parisian Touch
Looking for a relaxed picnic experience? Head to the Champ de Mars park, a spacious 60-acre green space where locals gather to enjoy the sunshine, picnic, and watch the sunset. The park features flowerbeds, ponds, and even a children’s playground, offering a fantastic setting for a peaceful afternoon.
Tip: Don’t miss the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower after dark! They illuminate every hour on the hour for about 5 minutes, creating a magical spectacle.
Upscale Views: Luxury Shopping with a Side of Eiffel Tower
For a free rooftop view with a touch of luxury, visit the Galeries Lafayette shopping mall. This elegant mall is filled with high-end brands and features a breathtaking glass dome ceiling. Ascend to the top floor using the escalators and climb the last flight of stairs to reach the rooftop terrace.
Tip: Check out the souvenir section on the 5th floor for a wider selection of Parisian keepsakes than you’ll find in typical souvenir shops. During Christmastime, don’t miss the magnificent decorations inside the mall – they’re among the city’s best!
From Luxury Malls to Romantic Bridges: Views for Every Occasion
Located close to Galeries Lafayette, Printemps is another upscale shopping mall in the Opera district. I personally prefer the view from Printemps to Galeries Lafayette, although the viewing platform is smaller. I recommend checking out both malls, as they offer unique perspectives of the Eiffel Tower and the city.
Tip: Visit during sunset for the most breathtaking views. The viewing platform is located on the 9th floor of the Men’s (Homme) Department store. Take the elevator to the 8th floor and then climb the stairs to the rooftop terrace.
Bridging the Gap: Views from a Parisian Jewel
Pont Alexandre III, one of Paris’ 37 bridges, is widely considered the most extravagant. This ornate bridge, adorned with lampposts, gold-trimmed details, and a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower, connects the Champs-Élysées to the Eiffel Tower’s 7th arrondissement, providing a perfect vantage point to explore the surrounding city.
Tip: Enjoy the sunset’s reflection on the Seine River from the bridge. The bridge also looks amazing at night, when its 32 lampposts illuminate the walkway.
A Hidden Gem: A Parisian Secret Revealed
Square Rapp, a hidden gem in the 7th arrondissement, offers a unique and peaceful escape from the tourist crowds. This secret spot provides a glimpse into the residential side of Paris. Follow a dead-end street, pass through a beautiful iron gate, and turn around to see the Eiffel Tower framed between two classic Haussmann-style buildings.
Tip: Discover the stunning Lavirotte Building, just around the corner from Square Rapp. This building, designed by architect Jules Lavirotte, features a lavish Art Nouveau façade that will leave you speechless. It’s located at 29 Avenue Rapp, 75007 Paris, France.
Shopping and Savoring: A Parisian Experience
Rue Saint Dominique, a street known for its upscale boutiques and restaurants, offers more than just a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower. This street is home to some of Paris’ best bakeries, including Douceurs et traditions Boulangerie Nelly Julien, where you can savor a fresh croissant while enjoying the Eiffel Tower view. Several excellent restaurants, like La Fontaine de Mars (famously visited by President Obama), are also located here.
Instagrammable Views: Photo Opportunities Galore
Rue de l’Université is one of the most Instagram-worthy streets in Paris, offering a charming cobblestone street with Parisian buildings framing the Eiffel Tower. Be prepared for a bustling crowd of tourists snapping photos!
Eye-Catching Views: A Unique Perspective
Just a short walk from Rue de l’Université is a unique eyeglass store that offers a fun and different perspective of the Eiffel Tower. I personally consider this to be my favorite photo of the Eiffel Tower, and I’ve taken quite a few!
A Bridge with a View: The Bir-Hakeim Bridge
The Bir-Hakeim bridge is a distinctive steel bridge that carries the metro, cars, and pedestrians across the Seine River. Its unique engineering design and perfect location make it one of the best spots to view the Eiffel Tower. Stop at the viewpoint in the middle of the bridge for a spectacular vista of the Eiffel Tower against the Seine River.
Tip: Check out L’île aux Cygnes, an island in the middle of the Seine, which can be accessed from the Bir-Hakeim bridge. The island features a replica of the Statue of Liberty and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Rooftop Views: A Parisian Panorama
Two ornate rooftop domes frame the Eiffel Tower perfectly, creating another unique perspective from the other side of the Bir-Hakeim bridge, near the Passy metro station.
A City of Views: Discover the Eiffel Tower from Every Angle
There you have it: 12 of the best views of the Eiffel Tower. I hope you enjoy exploring the Iron Lady’s beauty from different vantage points around the city!
Want more info about Paris? Check out my other Paris blog posts:
- 10 Things To Know Before Visiting Paris
- 10 Places You Must Eat In Paris
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