Best Spots To View The Eiffel Tower
Ah, Paris! The city of lights, love, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Paris regular, you can never get tired of seeing this iconic structure. But let’s be real, with such a magnificent monument, you don’t just want to view the Eiffel Tower—you want to capture it from the best spots that’ll make your memories & of course your Instagram feed glow. So, pack your camera, throw on your best outfit, and let’s discover the best spots to view and photograph the Eiffel Tower!
1. Avenue de Camoëns
Avenue de Camoëns is a quiet, elegant street that offers one of the best off-the-beaten-path views of the Eiffel Tower. It’s famous for its beautiful staircase, which serves as the perfect spot for taking symmetrical shots with the tower perfectly framed in the background.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The combination of the Parisian architecture, charming street, and distant Eiffel Tower creates a dreamy atmosphere. It’s a quieter area, perfect for photographers who want to capture the best spots to view the Eiffel Tower, but in a more relaxed setting.
Pro Tip: This is an excellent spot for fashion shoots! Use the stairs to add depth to your photos, and visit during sunset for the most flattering light.
2. Le Recrutement Café
While Le Recrutement is a lovely café, the real gem is located just around the corner. Head to the intersection of Bd de la Tour-Maubourg & Rue Saint-Dominique for an incredible, less-known view of the Eiffel Tower peeking through the streets.
WHAT TO EXPECT
This spot gives you that “classic Parisian street” vibe with the Eiffel Tower beautifully looming in the background. Plus, the streets in this area are picturesque, making for a perfect Parisian-style Instagram photo.
Pro Tip: While you’re in this area, head to the intersection of Rue Surcouf and Rue Saint-Dominique (practically the next block over). There you’ll find Au Canon des Invalides, a café with a charming yellow façade that adds a beautiful splash of color to your photos, all with the Eiffel Tower in the backdrop.
3. Trocadéro Gardens
Let’s start with the most classic location of all—Trocadéro Gardens. If you’ve seen a picture of the Eiffel Tower on Instagram, chances are it was taken from here. The grand staircase, wide open plaza, and unobstructed view make it a photographer’s dream.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You’ll be greeted by an expansive view of the Eiffel Tower, fountains, and often, other tourists trying to snap the perfect shot. This spot is particularly stunning at sunrise when the city is still quiet, and the light is soft and golden.
Pro Tip: To avoid crowds, get there early—think sunrise early! If you’re not an early bird, head here after sunset to catch the Eiffel Tower as it twinkles every hour.
4. Pont d’Iéna
This is the bridge that spans the Seine River right in front of the Eiffel Tower. From here, you can capture the tower with a beautiful river view, adding some depth and charm to your photos.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You’ll get a stunning reflection of the Eiffel Tower in the Seine (especially on calm days), plus plenty of boat traffic to add some dynamic movement to your shots. It’s also a great place to capture the tower during the golden hour or when it’s lit up at night.
Pro Tip: A sunset shot from this bridge is magical. Be sure to stand in the center of the bridge for perfect symmetry in your photos!
5. Rue de l’Université
This quiet little street in the 7th arrondissement provides one of the most romantic views of the Eiffel Tower. The cobbled streets and classic Parisian architecture make the perfect frame for the tower, which peeks out between the buildings.
WHAT TO EXPECT
It’s a charming spot that feels hidden, but you won’t be alone—many photographers and influencers know about this place! You’ll find a cozy, intimate vibe here, ideal for couple shots or solo traveler pictures.
Pro Tip: Get there early or late in the day to avoid crowds, and aim for an overcast day for softer light that complements the pastel tones of the street.
6. Pont de Bir-Hakeim
This two-level bridge is one of the most cinematic places in Paris, made famous by its appearance in films like Inception. It offers a unique perspective on the Eiffel Tower, especially for those looking for a creative, architectural shot.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The long, symmetrical lines of the bridge create a natural frame for the Eiffel Tower, making it a popular spot for artistic photography. The lower level of the bridge is perfect for capturing the tower with leading lines that draw the eye straight to it.
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds. If you’re into film photography or moody shots, this is the perfect location for some artsy compositions!
7. Champ de Mars
If you want a classic Parisian picnic with the Eiffel Tower in view, Champ de Mars is your go-to spot. This expansive green space offers plenty of room to relax, enjoy a baguette, and snap some Instagram-worthy shots of the tower from below.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You’ll find beautiful greenery, locals lounging with friends, and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from multiple angles. It’s a relaxed vibe, perfect for a casual day of sightseeing and picture-taking.
Pro Tip: Bring a picnic! Grab some wine, cheese, and a baguette, and enjoy the sunset with the Eiffel Tower looming majestically above you.
8. Galeries Lafayette Rooftop
Head to the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette for one of the most incredible panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower. The rooftop terrace is free to access, and you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while soaking in the view.
WHAT TO EXPECT
From here, you can capture not only the Eiffel Tower but also the Parisian skyline. The terrace provides a fantastic opportunity to get a wide-angle shot of the tower standing tall above the city.
Pro Tip: Visit at dusk when the Eiffel Tower starts to light up, and Paris is bathed in that magical twilight glow. It’s truly one of the best views in the city.
9. Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck
If you want a sweeping view of the entire city with the Eiffel Tower as the crown jewel, the Montparnasse Tower is where you need to be. From the 56th-floor observation deck, you’ll get a stunning bird’s-eye view of Paris.
WHAT TO EXPECT
You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world—literally. This spot offers a complete panoramic view of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower standing proudly in the distance. It’s a different perspective that’s perfect for wide shots and cityscape photography.
Pro Tip: Visit right before sunset for a magical golden hour experience, and stick around as night falls to watch the city sparkle.
10. Quai Branly
Located along the Seine River, Quai Branly offers a more grounded, scenic view of the Eiffel Tower. The combination of the river, the greenery, and the tower itself creates a picture-perfect moment.
WHAT TO EXPECT
It’s a peaceful location with beautiful walking paths along the river. You can capture the Eiffel Tower from lower angles, with the river and trees framing it. It’s ideal for those who want a quieter, more serene setting.
Pro Tip: For a more relaxed vibe, visit in the late afternoon. Grab a coffee and take a leisurely stroll along the river while snapping photos of the tower.
There you have it, folks—the best spots to view and photograph the Eiffel Tower! Whether you’re after that classic postcard shot or looking for a hidden gem, these locations won’t disappoint. From the picturesque streets of Avenue de Camoëns to the charming café corner near Le Recrutement, Paris offers endless ways to capture the Eiffel Tower’s beauty.
Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest for more travel tips, hidden gems, and Instagrammable spots! And if you haven’t already, check out my other posts on Best Fall Spots in London for Stunning Autumn Foliage and Exploring London’s Best Brunch Spots: Part 1 for more inspiration. Let’s keep exploring Paris, one beautiful spot at a time!
