Megan Hill

The Top Views in Paris

See some of the best views in Paris with our guide - don't forget to bring your camera!

With so many monuments and iconic buildings dotting the skyline, it's no surprise that Paris is gorgeous from any angle. However, there are some standout vantage points that make Paris even more magical and we've got you covered with our easy-to-follow guide to arguably the best views in Paris.

Montmartre

Perched on top of the stunning Montmartre district is the Sacre Coeur, one of Paris' most iconic landmarks and home to one of the most beautiful views of Paris. Sit on its sheer steps and take it all in on a crisp blue day and then again after sunset when the city of lights earns its title. Avoid the steep walk and take the Petit Train de Montmartre all the way up and learn more about the area from its bilingual tour guides on your journey to the peak. Paris Pass holders gain free entry to the Petit Train de Montmartre (normal price adults €6, children €4) and trains run every 30 minutes in the summer, then every 45 minutes in winter. The train will be closed in January.

Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise

Trail along the Seine and see some of Paris' beautiful sights from the Bateaux Parisiens, a charming cruise. This hour long tour begins at Pier 3 beside the Eiffel Tower and sails past places such as the Louvre Museum, Tuileries Gardens, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Grand Palais. Whether you want to take in the sights leisurely or want to indulge your inner historian with one of their multilingual audio guides, Paris has never looked better.

Montparnasse Tower

At 56 floors tall, Montparnasse Tower is one of the best panoramic views of Paris and the only skyscraper in the city. Befittingly named after the Greek mountain Mount Parnassus, the sights from their glass observation platform sees over a million visitors a year and on a clear day boasts a view radius of 40km. Day or night, the sights of the city of light never fail to amaze and a truly unique dining experience awaits those who want to make a real night of it at the highest restaurant in the city, Le Ciel de Paris.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Wear good walking shoes and be prepared to climb at Notre Dame Cathedral, where visitors can scale 387 steps to the top of its bell towers for a 360 degree view over Paris. Sidestep the gigantic bells weighing as much as 13 tonnes and take in the rich French Gothic architecture, then do as the cathedral's carved gargoyles do and oversee the sprawling views of the city.

Arc de Triomphe

Relive the glory of the France's past and remember the soldiers who gave their lives for their country at the Arc de Triomphe, which also hosts one of the best viewing platforms in Paris. At fifty metres high with 234 steps to the top, the gorgeous neoclassical structure offers views encompassing the Champs Elysées, Sacré Coeur and La Défense to name just a few.

Eiffel Tower

No surprises here - Paris' most distinguishable landmark also offers an unbeatable vantage point over the city. This beautiful latticed tower is also one of the most visited sites in all of Paris with lines to drive even the most patient tourist mad, so book your tickets in advance to get the most out of your experience. With three floors open to the public including two restaurant levels and the tallest observation deck in the European Union, visitors can choose to either scale its steps or take a lift all the way up.

Galaries Lafayette Haussman

While this impressive structure is best known for its tasteful stores, don't forget to head up to its stunning rooftop terrace after all the shopping is done and dusted. Bask in the summer sun and a glass of wine at the Cube Bar or take in the city illumination by night at Mediterranean restaurant La Paillot with one of the world's most beautiful cities serving as a backdrop.

Centre Pompidou

Opt for a dash of culture with your breathtaking Parisian view at the Centre Pompidou, Paris' leading modern art museum. Once you've finished exploring its exhibition halls and discovering works of art, take the escalators all the way up to the fifth floor to see the Marais district from above and chase the sights of Paris all the way into the horizon. If you're only interested in the view and could do without the art history lesson, Centre Pompidou also offers a View of Paris ticket that bypasses the exhibitions. Image via ParisPromenades Instagram

Parc de Belleville

Escape the bustle of the city, pack a picnic and make your way to the tallest park in Paris - the Parc de Belleville. Once you've navigated your way past beautiful flora, a modest vineyard and stunning water features dotted around the space, climb your way to the captivating vantage point to see the city as you've never seen it before. Image via Printemps Paris

Printemps Haussmann

Yet another of Paris' many shopping destinations, Printemps also has a fantastic rooftop terrace with an unforgettable view of the city and especially the nearby Montmartre neighbourhood. Slip up the escalators to the ninth floor, where their rooftop café and and a steaming cup of coffee await guests looking to drink in the view along with a small snack.
Love this article? Why not share it:

Buy with confidence

Free cancellation

Plans can change, we get it. All non-activated passes are eligible for a refund within 90 days of your purchase date.

Find out more

Got a question?

Check out our FAQs or live chat with our customer service agents now

See our FAQs

The Paris Pass® is highly rated, but don't just take our word for it!

Have a 5% discount, on us!

More savings? You're welcome. Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, vacation inspiration and much more.

  • Thick check Icon