10 Best Views and Viewpoints of Paris

Mix beauty with photogenic charm and voila you have the city of glistening lights, none other than Paris. Renowned for boasting some of the world’s most famous landmarks, the city provides breathtaking panoramic views from iconic structures. Head over to the picture-perfect spots and Paris hotels with the best views along with your pals to capture the city’s essence. So, dive right into this article as we’ve compiled the 10 best views of Paris.

You are starting with the classic: “The Eiffel Tower”, an iconic emblem of Paris, standing as one of the city's most mesmerizing attractions. Frequented by visitors from all around the globe the tower is situated in the Champ de Mars in the 7th arrondissement. With a towering height of 330 meters, the iron structure provides a magical moment and breathtaking vistas. Head to the second floor from where you can see other icons like the Grand Palais and the Louvre. But if heights aren’t your thing, then head to the intersection of Rue St. Dominique and Boulevard de la Tour Maubourg, to view the Eiffel tower from a distance.

Summoning photography enthusiasts is The Arc de Triomphe. Take a stroll to the western end of the Champs-Élysées, and you’ll see the grand icon sitting at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, connecting the 16th, 17th, and 8th zones. The place is dedicated to French soldiers of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Climb the steps to the top and you’ll see fantastic sweeping vistas of Paris. Take selfies and pictures of the monument itself at the Avenue des Champs-Élysées. The best time to head there is the dazzling sunset time.

A strikingly photogenic exterior, and breathtaking views, Perched atop Montmartre Hill on the right bank of the Seine, is the Roman Catholic church The Sacré-Coeur Basilica. This stunning landmark both inside and out is simply splendid. Gather up your strength and climb to the top and you’ll be rewarded with glimpses of iconic landmarks like Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Opera House. Up for a challenge? Then ascend the Dome’s 300 steps for a panoramic view of the city that will truly blow your mind.

Dining at Paris’ rooftop restaurants offers a truly magical experience, where you can savor delicious food and refreshing drinks while surrounded by breathtaking views that make you feel like the star of your own movie. For a unique experience, head to Créatures Paris, located on the 8th floor of the Galeries Lafayette department store. This vegetarian diner offers a 360-degree panoramic view, including iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Opera House. If you’re seeking even more stunning vistas, visit the Skybar at the Pullman Paris, perched 115 meters up on the 32nd floor. With the wind in your hair and spectacular views all around, it's the perfect setting for a memorable dining experience.

A more modern architectural wonder is the Pompidou Center, which also offers a hipper photo opportunity. Located in the Beaubourg area of the 4th arrondissement, the Pompidou is the home of the Public Information Library and the National Museum of Modern Arts. The design of the building—by Richard Rogers and Renzo Piano—features glass and steel exteriors with tubing and piping in primary colors throughout. Therefore, for nice photos, you'll get a good shot just standing anywhere in the front. But for a more unconventional, non-standard picture, go to the back to see the tubing up close and personal. Either way, it'll make for great fodder for your photo album.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris was one of the most toured locations in not only Paris but all of France before the tragic fire in 2019. A beautiful example of French Gothic architecture, it sits in the 4th arrondissement on the Île de la Cité. Thus, it's another picturesque location to photograph. There are various places to photograph Notre Dame, as it has a varied façade. To get the full view of it, walk along the Seine waterway at Quai Saint-Michel. To get a more intimate perspective, visit Parvis Notre-Dame—Place Jean-Paul II, which is the square in front of the cathedral.

1989, the year this grandeur was revealed as an addition to the striking modern landmarks in Paris. With a height of 110 meters, this cube-shaped structure is located in the La Défense business district in Puteaux. The monument was brought to life by the architect Johan Otto V. Spreckelsen. Here concrete and glass blend together to create a captivating sight. The 100-meter footbridge provides a unique vantage point to spot landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, along with a view of La Défense below.

The Panthéon is an architectural marvel that serves as a picturesque highlight of Paris. Originally built as a place of worship, this historic monument now functions as a mausoleum for some of France’s most renowned figures, including Voltaire, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie. It is situated in the Latin Quarter, at the heart of Place du Panthéon in the 5th arrondissement. Its exterior is distinguished by a magnificent dome and a striking facade adorned with Greco-Roman columns, offering intricate details that make it a photographer's dream come true. This iconic landmark is an essential addition to any collection of travel photos.

For the daredevils is The Montparnasse Tower, rising 210 meters high. Standing tall against the enchanting Paris skyline makes it an excellent spot for breathtaking views of the city. Once this modern building was named the tallest in France, now it holds the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck. You can decide on whatever height suits you as there are two levels. The first is on the 56th floor and the other is the open-air terrace. Shoot high up in one of Europe’s fastest elevators, reaching the top in just 38 seconds and you’ll be open to stunning vistas. But if you’re looking for something romantic then head to the outdoor terrace, capturing the majestic cityscapes.

While Paris is the city of Light, it won't be wrong to call it the city of artistic lovers as proved by the impressive art collection in The Musée d'Orsay. Not only art but the place provides stunning views of Paris. Where the Beaux-Arts railway station once stood, the museum resides there now featuring masterpieces by artists like Monet, Cézanne, and Degas. Don’t miss out on the Summer Terrace situated on the 5th floor, where you can enjoy drinks while taking in panoramic views of the Seine River, the Louvre, and the distant Sacré-Cœur Basilic.

In conclusion, Paris the city of love and light beckons you to revel in the ambiance of stunning vistas, from the architectural wonders of the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe to chic rooftop bars. The city is nothing short of wonder and endless opportunities to admire the captivating allure. Grab your bags and pull out your phones to snap pictures of the panoramic view of Paris.