Where to Find the Best Views in Paris

Known as the City of Light, Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With its iconic architecture, romantic river views, and historic landmarks, Paris offers stunning scenery around every corner. When visiting the French capital, be sure to check out these spots offering the Best Views in Paris.

Best Views in Paris

Eiffel Tower Best Views in Paris

No list of Paris? best views is complete without the Eiffel Tower. At 276 meters tall, the Eiffel Tower gives unmatched 360 degree views over Paris from its three observation decks. Purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines. The views from the lower two decks are impressive, but the top deck at 276 meters provides a unmatched panorama. Try to experience the view at daytime and again after nightfall when the Eiffel Tower dazzlingly lights up the skyline each hour.

Arc de Triomphe Best Views in Paris

The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly on the Champs-Elys?es, anchoring one end of this famous grand boulevard. Take the underground passage to reach the base of the arch. Climb up the spiral stairway within and admire the sculpted reliefs recounting French military history along the way. At the top, step onto the observation deck for gorgeous views along the Champs-Elys?es to the Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre. The bustling traffic circling the arch far below complements the perfect Paris skyline panorama.

Sacr?-Coeur

The iconic basilica of Sacr?-Coeur provides heavenly views across Montmartre thanks to its elevation on the hilltop. Ascend the many stairs leading up to Sacr?-Coeur, or ride the funicular. Queue on the front steps for classic views of the Paris skyline with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. For even better views, access the top of the basilica?s dome after climbing 300 steps. Marvel at a sweeping vista across the whole city. Don?t miss admiring the church?s exterior glittering white architecture against vibrant blue skies.

Notre Dame Towers

Though damaged by fire in 2019, the Notre Dame Cathedral still offers magical views from its bell towers on the west facade. Climb 400 steps up the spiral staircases to immerse yourself in gargoyles, chimeras, and flying buttresses during the ascent. Once atop the north or south tower, enjoy panoramic views over Paris? Left Bank, the Seine, and landmarks like the Sainte-Chapelle and the Sorbonne. Gaze over the cathedral?s own famed rosette stained glass windows and detailed architecture at close range.

Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Best Views in Paris

For expansive views with shopping too, visit the rooftop of the Galeries Lafayette department store. Take the escalator up to the top floor to access this hidden gem with gorgeous vistas. The rooftop terrace provides fabulous views over the Paris Opera House, Montmartre, and even the Eiffel Tower in the distance. The Art Deco glass dome and gold architecture beautifully frame the city below. Snap the obligatory rooftop selfie with Paris as your backdrop. Don?t miss the amazing Coupole stained glass inside the dome too!

Montparnasse Tower

Montparnasse Tower is one of the tallest buildings in Paris at 210 meters high. Take the speedy elevator up to the 56th and 59th floors to experience open air views from the rooftop terrace and indoor observatory. Captivating vistas stretch out in all direction over Parisian monuments near and far. The views of the Eiffel Tower are especially stunning. Come at sunset to watch the city transition into a glittering nighttime tableau. Go on clear days for views that can extend over 40 miles.

Le Jules Verne Restaurant Best Views in Paris

Get a meal with a view at Le Jules Verne, the Michelin-starred restaurant located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower. This memorable dining experience starts with your tableside view overlooking the Champ de Mars and the River Seine. Book well in advance to secure a coveted window table framed by the Eiffel Tower?s intricate ironwork. Indulge in Alain Ducasse?s refined French cuisine while never taking your eyes off the most beautiful skyline.

Rooftop Bars

Paris has numerous trendy rooftop bars where you can toast the panoramic views over cocktails or champagne. Some top spots include Rooftop of the Hoxton Hotel, Le Perchoir in the Marais, Monsieur Bleu at the Palais de Tokyo, and Bar ? Bulles at the Westin Paris Hotel. These bars offer picture-perfect views of the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur and other iconic landmarks. Time your rooftop drinks for sunset to watch the city lights sparkle on.

Cruise the Seine River

A leisurely boat cruise on the Seine River reveals Paris from a watery perspective. Bateaux Parisiens and Bateaux Mouches offer open-top boat tours along the Seine with live commentary. View attractions like the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, Musee D?Orsay and Pont Neuf bridge as you float peacefully by. A river cruise at night highlights Paris? illuminated landmarks and bridges even more dramatically. Enjoy the sights while sipping wine and listening to music for full ambiance.

Pont Alexandre III Bridge

Spanning the Seine near the Champs-Elys?es, the Pont Alexandre III bridge provides picture-perfect views any time of day. The ornate Beaux-Arts style bridge is adorned with sculptures of cherubs, nymphs, and gilt bronze candelabras. Walk across the length of bridge, stopping midway to gaze up and down the Seine for idyllic scenes in both directions. Look left to admire views of the Grand Palais, Invalides and Eiffel Tower in the distance.

Parc de Belleville

For sweeping cityscapes, climb to the top of Parc de Belleville situated on one of the highest points in Paris. This large hilltop park offers incredible, unobstructed 270 degree views over the city. Find a bench and take in the panorama stretching from Montmartre to the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral. Come at sunset for magical views of the golden hour sun setting over the Paris skyline. Don?t forget to wander through the park?s vine-covered terraces and waterfall too.

Basilique du Sacr?-C?ur Best Views in Paris

Perched atop the hill in Montmartre, Sacr?-C?ur Basilica affords one of the loveliest views over Paris. Queue to walk up the steps of its iconic white domed facade. Before entering the basilica itself, turn back for the perfect photographic moment with the city sprawled out picturesquely behind you. The contrast of Sacr?-C?ur?s pristine architecture against the urban views makes for stunning photos.

Square du Vert-Galant

This small public park sits on the tip of the ?le de la Cit? island in the River Seine. The prime location provides front-row views of landmarks like the Louvre, Pont Neuf bridge and Notre Dame. Stroll through the gardens to the very point of Vert-Galant square for an immersive Seine river experience. Find a bench under the willow trees and watch boat traffic pass by. The square?s tranquility is the perfect counterpoint to the bustling Paris backdrop.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

For a mix of nature and city views, head to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in northeastern Paris. This hilly green space contains cliffs, waterfalls, and a lake within its 61 acres. Hike to the top of its highest point and be rewarded with an incredible panorama over Paris. Gaze at highlights like the Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, and Pere Lachaise cemetery from this unique elevated vantage point. The park itself provides a refreshing escape from the city as well.

Paris spoils you for choice with stunning vistas around every turn. For the most memorable trip, visit these top spots where classic Parisian views unfold before your eyes. Don?t forget to savor the scenery over a coffee, glass of champagne, or perfect picnic as well. With its wealth of unforgettable views, Paris cements its status as one of the world?s most beautiful cities.