Travelling Thirties

Paris is home to some some stunning accommodations and sites. Why not combine the two and stay in one of the best hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower view?

Named after Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognisable sites in Paris, if not the world.

Due the size of the Eiffel Tower it can be seen from many different angles throughout the city. Many of the iconic roof tops in Paris have stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

Sadly, many local Parisians don’t have the luxury of an apartment with a view of the Eiffel Tower, but lucky for visitors to Paris, there are many hotels with views of the Eiffel Tower.

If you are heading to Paris for a night, a weekend or a week, you will want to make the most of your visit and find some of the best accommodation. What would make for better accommodation than a hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower?

Hey There……there is a very good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Are you planning a trip to Paris? Check out these posts
Unique things to do in Paris
The Most Instagrammable Places in Paris
The perfect itinerary for 24 hours in Paris
Top things to do in Paris
Visiting the Lavender Fields in Provence

Hotels in Paris a view of the Eiffel Tower

Shangri-La Paris

Price Range: $$$

The Shangri-La in Paris was once the resident of Prince Roland Bonaparte, Napoleon’s Great Nephew. Today, it is a palace 5-star hotel, located on the east corner of Jardins du Trocadéro. Not only do you receive a fabulous view of the Eiffel Tower but you are also a short 10 minute walk from the tower.

As you might expect, everything about this hotel is complete lavish luxury. From the grand staircase to the opulent bathrooms, you will feel as though you are living your own Royal Dream.

Each room has its own living room space and beautiful bathrooms complete with rain shower and separate bath tub. The upper levels have beautiful balcony to enjoy your breakfast as your admire the view of the Eiffel Tower.

The restaurants (there are two!) offer both Asian and French cuisine and are overseen by Michelin starred Chef Christophe Moret. In the morning, guests can take in a beautiful breakfast in the glass roofed restaurant.

Why not enjoy the spa and health and wellness center in the evening after a day of exploring the must see sites in Paris!

What are the guests saying: Thank you Shangri La Paris team for this amazing one night in Paris for my Fiancé’s birthday we had the best time and felt sad to leave. We were assisted by Maude she has been excellent at arranging everything to perfection. We shall be returning!

Book: Booking.com

Hôtel Balzac

Price Range: $$$

Hôtel Balzac is a historic palace that was originally built as a pleasure palace, it is filled with history and culture. This hotel was originally built in the 19th centaury for the director of the Paris Opera. You will find Hôtel Balzac just off the famed Champs–Élysées near the Arc de Triomphe.

As you step inside the gorgeous hotel you will be welcome with fine Chandeliers, elegant furniture and chic Parisian decor.

After your day of exploring Paris relax with a drink in the elegant bar, sit on the sofas in the chic lounge and enjoy a refreshing cocktail or sit down to a fine dinner at the Michelin starred restaurant.

What are the guests saying: Fantastic mini break with my mama. Fantastic breakfast and location, friendly helpful staff. Very helpful concierge

Book: Booking.com

Hotel The Peninsula Paris

Hotel The Peninsula Paris is located just minutes from the iconic Champs–Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, this 5-star hotel is perfect for a romantic getaway.

The plush rooms at the Hotel The Peninsula Paris are fitted with elegant furniture and beautiful artworks.

Hotel The Peninsula Paris has some of the most beautiful suites in Paris. The upper suites boast incomparable views of the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower and the stunning Parisian Skyline.

This luxury hotel is fitted with outstanding facilities, including a sun terrace with the best views of the Eiffel Tower, a spa and six upscale bars and restaurants. One of the best features of the hotel is their beautiful collection of luxury cars that are on call to take you around Paris.

What are the guests saying: Service, facilities, restaurants and location. Beyond perfection. It’s the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in.

Book: Booking.com

La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris by The Crest Collection

Price Range: $$

La Clef Tour Eiffel Paris by The Crest Collection is set a 19th centaury townhouse near the Trocadero metro station and the Jardins du Trocadéro.

Guests will be delighted with the light, spacious rooms that include a white marble finish bathroom, slippers and washing services.

Enjoy your continental breakfast in the breakfast room or request for your breakfast to be delivered to your room.

The hotel contains both hotel rooms and apartments, so if you would like the convince of a kitchen in your room you may decide on the apartment. The hotel has plenty of common rooms, a gym and two Michelin starred restaurants.

Upon returning to the hotel after a long day of site seeing, enjoy complimentary pastries, juices, tea and coffee in the lounge between 3pm and 5pm.

What are the guests saying: Beautiful room with a small kitchen, which was helpful when restaurants were closed. Nice breakfast brought to your room.

Book: Booking.com

Hotel San Régis

Price Range: $$$

Hotel San Régis is located in a 19th-century private mansion and a 3-minute walk from the Champs-Elysées and Grand Palais. You are also an easy 200 m from the River Seine and the Montaigne Avenue.

Each room is individually decorated with rich fabrics and flat-screen LED TV including satellite channels. The private bathrooms are Italian marble with Hermès toiletries and either a bath or a shower. You will feel truly welcome in this incredible 5 star boutique hotel, as you arrive you are welcome with mineral, coffee and tea.

To ensure you get to fully experience everything Hotel San Régis has to offer, consider booking the Terrace Junior Suite. It is the Junior Suite that put Hotel San Régis on the list of the “20 Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower View”. In the Junior Suite you can enjoy your own private balcony with a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower.

I could not imagine a more perfect place to wake up and enjoy breakfast!

What are the guests saying: It was a fabulous location, very central for the most popular tourist attractions, all of which were in walking distance. Beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower from our room. The staff were very friendly and extremely helpful for making reservations.

Book: Booking.com

Hôtel Le Walt

Price Range: $$

Hôtel Le Walt is a design hotel located on Rive Gauche in Paris’ 7th arrondissement. This four star hotel was inspired by the Louvre and the rooms are adorned with art work from greatest classical artists.

Hotel Le Walt is a short walk from the Champ de Mars, l’Esplanade des Invalides and the Grand Palais.

There are some rooms that offer beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower, so when you are booking make sure you put in a request for a room with a view of the great Iron Lady.

What are guests saying:  I loved how close it was to the Eiffel Tower. I got a room with a view of the tower and watching the lights at night was a bucket list thing that I was able to tick off. The bed was really comfortable and the staff were lovely – very welcoming and willing to help out with everything. The macarons and welcome note was a perfect touch as macarons are my favourite. Would highly recommend.

Book: Booking.com

Hôtel La Comtesse

Price Range: $

Hôtel La Comtesse is set in a 19th-century Hausmannian building in the 7th district of Paris. The hotel features rooms with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. The French windows open to let in the Parisian atmosphere and uninterrupted views of the Eiffel Tower.

Hôtel La Comtesse is located close to both the Latin Quarter and the Eiffel Tower. This prime location means that most of the sites you will want to see on your visit to Paris are within walking distance.

During your stay, why not treat yourself to French cuisine in the hotels café, which features a beautiful library. The buffet contains a gorgeous array of cereals, pastries, eggs, fruit and a variety of drinks. If you are in a hurry and cannot sit down to a full breakfast you are also able to enjoy the express breakfast which includes a hot drink, fresh fruit juice and 3 mini pastries.

What are the guests saying: Absolutely lovely location, view from balcony straight to Eiffel Tower, close to nice restaurants and metro! Very good breakfast, good selection, fresh juices! Reception staff very helpful! Room very well equipped, coffee machine, tea facility, mini bar with selection of drinks (extra paid). I would recommend to everyone who wants to spend time in Paris and have incredible view!

Book: Booking.com

Hotel Plaza Athénée

Price Range: $$$

Hôtel Plaza Athénée is located in a luxury palace on the prestigious Avenue Montaigne only 5 minutes from the famous, Champs Elysées in Paris. The stunning hotel has a Dior Institute Spa, 5 restaurants, a cocktail bar an during the winter you will find an ice-skating rink.

The rooms are elegant with marble bathroom, and you have your choice of a room or suite. All guests of Hôtel Plaza Athénée have access to the spa free of charge.

On the prestigious Avenue Montaigne in Paris, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is a luxury palace with a Dior Institute spa, 5 restaurants, a cocktail bar and a seasonal ice-skating rink. It offers elegant accommodation with marble bathrooms, a 5-minute walk from Avenue Champs Elysées. WiFi access is complimentary and access to the spa is free of charge. Each room has minibar other 80 drinks and 5 different types of pillows to esure you have the perfect nights sleep.

Some rooms offer views of the Eiffel Tower, so make sure you enquire about this when you book.

All of the restaurants at the hotel are supervised by Michelin Star chef, Alain Ducasse. You can will enjoy an American style breakfast, indulge in French dishes, be transported to Japan or enjoy a refreshing meal from the summer menu.

If you like to have your shoes shined, you will be right at home with their shoe shinning services.

What are the guests saying: I loved the room. breakfast was fantastic and most of all the attention to detail by the staff was phenomenal. I think you have a great staff complement… take care of them.

Book: Booking.com

 Jardins Eiffel

Price Range: $$

Jardins Eiffel is located in the centre of Paris! Many of Paris’ most famous sites are located within a 20 minute walking, including the River Seine, the Invalides, Champs Elysées and Musée d’Orsay.

The rooms features modern décor, each room is soundproofed and some feature private balconies or terraces with views of the Eiffel Tower. Why not ask for your breakfast on the balcony?

Every guest can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the breakfast room or the garden, if you would prefer breakfast in your room, you can order a continental breakfast.

What are the guests saying: I absolutely loved the room. The staff was great and the view of the Eiffel Tower from my balcony was absolutely stunning. The rooms were clean, and the location was absolutely perfect for my first time in Paris!

Book: Booking.com

Hotel Relais Bosquet

Price Range: $

Located in the heart of Paris this charming hotel gives you the feel of home rather than a chain hotel. If you prefer guesthouses you may prefer this hotel as it only has 40 rooms.

The rooms are cozy and are fitted with buttery soft mattresses, a mountain of pillows and warm blankets. In your bathroom you will find either a shower or a bath tub. All rooms are decorated with a floral décor.

Some rooms feature a view of the Eiffel Tower but you will need to pay extra for the view. However, if you are travelling on a budget but still looking for a prime view, this three star hotel still feels like one of the best hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower View.

What are the guests saying: The staff was very helpful and friendly, particularly the night manager whom made our check-in — he made the difference and definitely inspired my family into using this hotel next time we’re in town. The room was spacious and fully functional (e.g. many power outlets available, versatile lighting and furniture). Close to several restaurants, a supermarket just next door, and a multitude of public parking spaces around it, I can’t think on anything that I missed. Perfect place!

Book: Booking.com

Map of Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower View

Is there are hotel in Paris with a view of the Eiffel Tower that you think I am missing from the list? Let me know in the comments below

Share It!

Hey There……there is a very good chance that this post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Ahh, Paris! The city of love, the city of lights. No matter how you refer to Paris, it is a place that you must visit at least once in your life. Known for the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Moulin Rouge and beautiful neighbourhoods such as Montmartre and Les Maris.

Paris is one of the most well known cities in Europe and for good reason. It is a city you can relax with a coffee in a café with a coffee watching the world go by or pack your days with the top things to do in Paris.

If you are anything like me, you will want to stray from the beaten path and seek out some of the more unique things to do in Paris. Whilst eating macaroons, visiting romantic cafes and seeing the Mona Lisa is a must, you want to make sure you get to see the heart of Paris.

Heading to Paris? Check out these posts to help plan your trip
The perfect 24 Hours in Paris
The Top things to do in Paris
The Ultimate Guide to visiting Lavender Fields in Provence
Best Spring Break Destinations in Europe

Getting to Paris

Flying to Paris

If you fly into Paris you will land at either Charles De Gaulle or Orly Airport. Both of these airports are located roughly 45 minutes from the center of Paris via taxi. Obviously, this does depend on traffic.

Taxis are readily available from both airports, however, they are quite expensive (it is Paris after all!). Taxis from Orly will cost roughly 25 euros and from Charles De Gaulle will be around 50 euro. There is a 30% surcharge between 7 pm and 6 am and a charge of 1.50 euro per suit case.

A much cheaper option, although a more time consuming option, is to take public transport.

From Charles De Gaulle, trains run from 5:30 am until midnight every 15 minutes from the airport and go to Gare du Nord, Chatelet Les Halles and Luxembourg train stations.

From Orly airport there is a shuttle bus which will take you from the airport to the train station. The train then runs from 5:30 am until 11 pm and leaves every 15 minutes. The train goes from the airport to Gare d’Austrelits, St Michel/Notre Dame and Invalides stations.

If you are flying with Air France they do provide a bus service to and from both airports.

Getting the train to Paris

If you are travelling by train, Paris is very accessible from most European countries. The French capital is only a couple of hours from Brussels, London, Amsterdam just to name a few.

If you are arriving by train, you will most likely arrive in to Gare d’Nord. The Euro star from London arrives to Gare d’Nord and the train station is pretty central.

Driving to Paris

The roads in Paris are relatively easy to navigate, especially if you have Google Maps. If you do not have your own car, you can hire a car from most European cities and towns.

London is a four and a half hour drive to Paris via the Eurotunnel, Amsterdam is located 5 hours from Paris and Brussels is located 3 hours from Paris.

Getting around Paris

Walking

Paris is a very large city but is walkable if you have the time. Walking is the perfect way to see the city and some of the hidden gems. Just be aware that the Eiffel Tower is not right next to the Moulin Rouge, most the things to do in Paris are a decent walk.

However, with the exception of the walk to Montmartre, Paris is a flat city and is beautiful to walk around.

Top Tip: Join a walking tour, you get to see the highlights of Paris and hear some of the best places to eat, drink and see from a local.

Metro

The metro is very easy to navigate and one of the best ways to get around Paris. If you are planning on using the metro several times, I recommend checking out the Paris Viste Metro Pass. With this pass you will be able to ride the Metro (and buses, trams, RER) with no limits, and also visit museums for free.

There are around 300 metro stations in Paris, and each station is no more than a 10 minute walk from were you want to visit in Paris.

Buses

If you would rather remain above ground when travelling around Paris, buses are a great option. There are plenty of bus stops around the city, so you are guaranteed to have one not too far from your accommodation.

At each bus stop, the route with all of the stops will be shown and a timetable. However, if you are unsure if you are in the right place, show the bus drive the name of the place you are going and they will be able to tell you if you are on the right bus.

During the day, buses usually leave every 5 – 7 minutes, times will vary at night time so check the Régie Autonome des Transports Parisiens website.

On the RAPT website you will also find an interactive map to help you plan your trip on the buses and the Metro.

Bike

Biking around Paris is a must do activity in itself. Many Parisians will ride bikes around the city (and yes, they often have baguettes in their baskets or backpacks). If you are travelling and do not have your own bike, hiring a bike through Velib is a popular and cheaper way to go.

The are more than 1,800 stations around the city for you to collect or drop off a bike. When hiring a bike, the first half is free. If you can pick up and drop off your bike within half an hour you will not pay anything, once you have returned your bike you can take out another bike.

Taxis

There are thousands of taxis around Paris and they are very to easy to hail if you cannot find a taxi rank. They are also one of the most expensive ways to get around the city. However, they are probably the most convenient way to get from the airports to the city.

Top tip: Uber operates in a similar way to Taxis, except you need to have access to the website or the app. Uber is often cheaper than a taxi.

8 Unique things to do in Paris

Before you head to Paris for your next trip (or maybe your first trip) make sure to add these unusual things to do in Paris to your list.

Catacombs

Debbie, World Adventurists

Even Paris has a dark history. One of the most unique and eerie attractions to visit is the Catacombs of Paris. Back in the 17th century, Paris cemeteries were beginning to overflow as graves were becoming uncovered from being jam-packed. There was nowhere to bury any more corpses, and the solution was to use part of the 200 miles of tunnels below Paris to store the remains.

Today, visitors can wander an ossuary where the remains of approximately six million Parisian have been laid to rest. You’ll see walls of femurs arranged like a puzzle from floor to almost the ceiling, with some arrangements having rows of skulls between the femurs. You’ll also see the bones and skulls arranged in patterns to form shapes, like a cross.

Over the years, the Catacombs have been of great interest to many. Early visitors included Napoleon III, and the Catacombs have been featured in literature such as “Les Miserables”. The French Resistance used sections of the tunnel system during the occupation of France by Nazi Germany in WWII.

You will want to put aside an hour to an hour and a half to wander. You can buy tickets in advance for 29 EUR, while last-minute tickets at the door cost 14 EUR. If you choose to buy tickets at the door, arrive early, as the line can get ridiculously long. Children 4-17 cost 5 EUR for a reserved ticket. During pandemic times, you must reserve your tickets in advance.

You can also add on an audio guide for 5 EUR.  The guides are available in English, French, German, and Spanish. The guide gives a great recorded spoken commentary of the details surrounding the Catacombs.

You are going underground, so it will get a little chilly. You will want to have a light sweater with you.

Due to the site’s underground constraints, it is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.

The Catacombs are located beside the Denfert-Rochereau Metro (lines 4 & 6) and RER (Line B) train station.

Passage des Panoramas

Dymphe, Dymabroad

One of the most unique things to do in Paris, the capital of France, is going to the Passage des Panoramas. This is a covered passage in the city that is very beautiful and that has a large history.

There are lots of covered passages in Paris, but what makes this one unique is that it is the oldest one in Paris. It was opened in the year 1800. Besides that, it is also more beautiful than the other covered passages.

So if you want to see a covered passage in Paris, you should definitely go to this one! Even if you didn’t plan on visiting a covered passage, you still should, as it is one of the reasons why you should visit Paris 

Inside the passage, you find many boutique shops and great places to eat. Also, from the beginning, it has been well-known for the shops for stamps and postcards. Everywhere you look at this place, for example, the walls and the ceiling, you can see decorations. Also, most of the shops have sign boards that look very beautiful.

Overall, the atmosphere at Passage des Panoramas is good. The passage is open daily from 6AM to 12AM, so you can visit whenever you like! When you want to take a photo here, you can stand on one side of the passage and capture all shops and sign boards in the photo

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Elisa, World in Paris

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is one of the most unique places to visit in Paris. It is located in Northern Paris, in the 19th district, and it is the fifth-largest park in the French capital.

Sure, Park des Buttes-Chaumont is lesser-known than the most central Tuileries Garden or Luxembourg Gardens, but it is a lovely park for a stroll and one of the locals’ favorite spots for a picnic in Paris. From the highest areas in the park, it is possible to see the Sacré Coeur in Montmartre.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont was commissioned by Napoleon III, and it was inaugurated in 1867. It was built on the site of a former gypsum quarry, and it has the particularity to be the only hilly park in Paris.  This English-style garden imitates a mountain landscape with rocks, cliffs, torrents, rolling hills, and even a cave with a secret waterfall.

The park is developed around a central pond with an artificial rock topped by a classic temple. Some people say this temple is haunted! There are also two restaurants, a guinguette that sells food and drinks, and one of the most beautiful cherry trees in Paris.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont also has spaces for kids, like a playground with swings and a puppet theater, and it is the ideal place for a sunny Sunday with family or friends.

Fashion stylist experience 

Jyoti, Story at Every Corner

Paris is the fashion capital of the world so if you’re one who likes to experience local culture and traditions, this is a local experience for you. Your Paris itinerary for winter or summer must include an appointment with a fashion consultant. 

There are multiple fashion consultants that advertise their private class on Airbnb experience. Each one is slightly different, so you can decide to pick one that resonates with your needs. 

A typical fashion consultant session includes an evaluation at a place like a coffee shop over a drink or the designer’s studio. Based on body shape, color and other factors, the consultant creates a plan and recommendations for kinds of outfits, colors, prints etc that would be most flattering for an individual. 

Once you know the basics, consultant takes you shopping to a variety of stores, ranging from pop-ups, high end boutiques, hidden gems, department stores, and even thrift shops. You’ll get to try things that you’d have never tried. You might fall in love with a new style. Being a Paris local, they have a great sense of where to go for what clothing and price range. You’ll get an opportunity to find stores that match your style in a sea of amazing fashion stores of Paris. 

Fashion consultation is Paris will definitely be one experience that you’ll remember forever. You may learn something new that changes your wardrobe and your style forever. 

Grand Mosque

Maartje & Sebastiaan, Tidy Minds

Paris is home to many famous architectural gems, most of them in a lavish art nouveau style. But if you’re looking for quite a different architectural experience, head to the south bank of the Seine and visit the oriental Grand Mosque.

The Grand Mosque is one of the more unique places to visit in Paris. It’s located not far from other more well-known highlights in Paris like the Pantheon and Jardin du Luxembourg, but gets much fewer visitors than those places.

It is the third-largest mosque in Europe and the largest in Paris. The Grand Mosque is a unique piece of exotic Arab architectural elements, you might have seen when traveling in the Middle-East.

It was modeled after mosques in northern Africa and to make sure the Parisian mosque would have the same effect on visitors, craftsmen from that area were even brought to Paris. The mosque had its grand opening in 1926.

One of the most distinctive features of the Grand Mosque is its 33-meters minaret, which you can clearly see when walking towards the mosque. The mosque is open to visitors, so you can also visit the beautiful public areas like the central garden. It is a beautiful green oasis in Paris with mosaics, arches, fountains and plants.

Arènes de Lutèce

Danik, Danik the Explorer

Tucked away in the Latin Quarter of Paris is the oldest historical monument in the city, the Arènes de Lutèce, a Roman Arena which has stood here since the 1AD. The third largest Roman Arena in France (after Nimes and Arles in the south of the country), used to seat 15,000 people who would come and watch regular combat fighting which took place here.

Now the arena is a hidden secret for visitors who come to the most visited city in the world and would only know it if they have done their research. The arena is surrounded by apartment blocks to one side and lots of trees on the other. Part of the seating area is used by the locals and some of the stones which used to be seats are now used as tables so the locals can play chess on them in the warmer months.

How did the arena get to this state & isn’t in great condition like other Roman arenas in Europe? Well, since the fall of the Roman Empire, the arena was partly demolished with the centre of it still there. The arena was then covered with weeds, grass, trees and turned into a beautiful park over the centuries before becoming hidden away from everyday life. Eventually homes (before the apartment blocks) were built and literally placed right up to the walls of the arena.

The 19th century came along and when the city was getting rebuilt to accommodate new tram lines in the area, the arena was discovered. There was a plan to build a tram depot on the site where the arena stands but that was scrapped and was saved from demolition.

When visitors visit the arena, there will be a discovery of history, stepping back to the days the Roman Empire held Paris and at the same time, embrace with the locals and get a real sense of what it is like for locals to live in this amazing city. To get to the arena, the nearest metro station is Place Monge which is on line 7 and follow the signs for Arènes de Lutèce.

Fluctuart

Marsha, Do You Salut 

When visiting Paris most people think about Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, or one of the many gardens. Although all of these places have earned their stripes you should consider visiting some of the lesser known gems that Paris has to offer. One of my favorite gems is, Fluctuart.

Fluctuart, is an art gallery located on the Seine River. This art gallery is dedicated to urban art and is the FIRST floating urban art center in the world! It is located at the center of Paris right next to the Pont des Invalides bridge. The art gallery is spread across the ground floor and the lower deck and has both temporary and permanent exhibitions.

The Fluctuart center has a relaxed environment for art lovers and anyone who is looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris. The rooftop deck offers a nice view of the Eiffel Tower that is home to a bar and a small cafe for quick bites.  They also offer board games and play music on the rooftop deck.

A perfect environment for enjoying the sun on the Seine.  The Fluctuart Urban Art Center is a unique treasure that Paris has to offer first timers and recurring visitors alike. 

Statue of Liberty

Alice, Adventures of Alice

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. The French capital welcomes millions of tourists each year and yet, they tend to just visit the most common attractions and sights the city has to offer. Everyone’s heard of Disneyland Paris and the Eiffel Tower, right?

It’s like New York and the Statue of Liberty – it instantly springs to mind. However, did you know that New York isn’t the only city with a Statue of Liberty? Paris actually has one too.

The story goes that, after France gifted the original Lady Liberty to the city of New York, the USA returned the favour, giving several smaller replicas to Paris. There are actually 5 in total scattered across the city. The most famous of these is just 38 feet tall and is located on an islet in the River Seine, just behind the Eiffel Tower. It’s been sitting proud on the capital’s river since 1889.

Whether you’re spending a week or just 3 days in Paris, it’s well worth a visit. Unlike the NYC version, the Statue of Liberty in Paris can’t actually be visited. You can find it in the 15th arrondissement of the city and only admire it from a distance. But be sure to take plenty of photographs of course

Storing your luggage in Paris

If you are in Paris just for the day and not staying the night you can find plenty of luggage storage options around Paris.

Stasher Luggage storage is a fantastic option, it costs 6€ per day per bag and each item is insured up to 1,000€. You can store your bags at quite a few train stations including Gare d’Nord, Gare Montparnasse, Gare d’Austerlitz, Gare de l’Est and Gare de Lyon.

Both airports also have Stasher Luggage storage facilities. So if you have a stop over, you don’t have to take your luggage into Paris with you.

What are the coolest things to do is Paris? Let me know in the comments below

Share It!

Paris is without a doubt one of the most beautiful cities in the world, if not the most beautiful city in world. There are endless photo opportunities in Paris, from the Eiffel Tower to your regular street. Whether you are interested in portraits, landscape or the perfect Instagram photos, Paris is a photographers dream.

If it is your first time in Paris, check out how to spend the perfect 24 hours in Paris, Top Things to do in Paris or the most unique things to do in Paris.

In this article you will learn where the most instagrammable places in Paris are, tips on how to get there, what to do in the area and of course, photography tips to make sure you walk away with the best photo.

Are you planning a trip to Paris? Check out these other posts to help plan the perfect trip
The best things to do in Paris
The perfect 24 hours in Paris
How to visit the Lavender fields in Provence
Most Unique things to do in Paris

The most instagrammable spots in Paris

Montparnasse Tower

Jiayi, The Diary of a Nomad

One of the most Instagrammable places in Paris that not too many tourists know about is the Montparnasse Tower, situated in the Montparnasse neighborhood. This building is actually the only skyscraper in the city center of Paris, and it’s a spectacular one because the bird’s-eye view it offers is actually even better than the one from the Eiffel Tower. 

The entrance fee to the Montparnasse Tower is not the cheapest; you’ll have to pay 18€ to climb up to the Observation Deck if you’re an adult, and 15€ if you’re under 18 or a student. However, the view you’ll get once you’re up there is simply out-of-this-world; it’s worth every single cent of the ticket.

Arrive right before sunset to make the most of your experience at the Montparnasse Tower. This way, you’ll get to see the whole city slowly dim as the sun paints the sky pink and orange. Then, you’ll get to see it romantically light up in the dusk. The best part about this view? It has the Eiffel Tower in it! Few things are as magical or Instagrammable as watching the sun set over the iconic Eiffel Tower and the Paris skyline. 

Make sure to bring the best photography gear — such as some of these great low-light lenses for the Nikon D3400 — to capture this spectacular sunset view. After you’re done shooting, you can also enjoy a drink at the rooftop bar. 

Getting to the Montparnasse Tower is very easy. You can take the metro to Edgar Quinet, Gaîté, or Notre-Dame-des-Champs and simply walk for a few minutes afterward. While you’re in the Montparnasse neighborhood, be sure to also check out the famous Paris Catacombs!

Louvre

Ophelie, Limitless Secrets

The Louvre is one of the most instagrammable places in Paris! This iconic Museum is actually the largest and the most visited in the world! You can visit it every day from 9 am to 6 pm except on Tuesdays.

The entrance costs 15 euros if you purchase it at the museum, and 17 euros if you buy it online beforehand with a quick entry to the museum. Nevertheless, you can access the courtyard for free. The closest metro stations are Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre and Louvre Rivoli.  

A visit to the museum is a must while in Paris and it will take you some time (count at least half a day and do not expect to see it all in once). But the most photogenic part of the museum is the courtyard!  You will be amazed at the contrast between history and modernity with the glass pyramids. The main pyramid was built in the 1980s with the exact same proportions as the Great Pyramid of Giza! It is surrounded by smaller pyramids.

If you want to take some photos in the courtyard and have it all to yourself, come at 7am at the opening of the area.

Before or after visiting the Museum, you can take a walk in the beautiful Tuileries garden. You will also see the stunning Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel. Last but not least, you can go to the Palais Royal nearby and admire the striped columns of Buren.

Le Village Royal

Lauren, Always Find Adventure

Le Village Royal is a small open-air passageway full of couture boutiques, lively decorations, and art installations – the perfect place for Instagram lovers.  

Founded in 1723, the original purpose of the passage was to create a path between boutiques, butchers, fishmongers, merchants, bakers, and more for affluent Parisiens. Originally this passageway was called Passage du Marché d’Aguesseau but in 1992 it was completely renovated to include high-end boutiques such as Dior, Chanel, and Anne Fontaine.

Have you seen those famous colorful umbrella installations, otherwise known as the “Umbrella Sky Project”? Le Village Royal is where you can find them in Paris. Other art installations that have found a home here include sculptures by CÉVÉ, Idan Zareski, Pimax, and Carole Feuerman.

During the holiday season, it’s even more magical with many lights and decorations.

You can find this alleyway on 25 Rue Royale, right next to the Eglise de La Madeleine in the eighth arrondissement. Nearby, you can visit the famous Ladurée for macarons or stroll along the Jardins des Champs-Élysées.

For the best photo opportunity, as always, try to arrive before 930am. The entire passageway is photogenic – for the best photos, have your tripod or a friend crouch on the ground to capture the architecture above (and umbrellas). 

Palais-Royal

Claudia Tavani, My Adventures Across The World

Palais-Royal i s one of Paris’s best kept secrets, and one of the most photogenic spots in town. Known to the locals, who go there regularly, it has yet to become a mass tourism destination – though lately more and more people make it a point to search for it rather than casually stumble upon it.

The Palais-Royal is literally on the other side of the street from the Louvre, tucked away in a small street. 

The main building, which was called Palais-Cardinal, was property of Cardinal Richelieu, Paris’ infamous cardinal and ruler, who lived there until his death in 1642. When he died, the palace was acquired by Philippe II Duke of Orléans, brother of King Louis XIV and who was Regent of the Kingdom once the king died in 1715 and until 1723, since Louis XV was only 5 years old when the king died.

Nowadays the palace is the seat of the Constitutional Court of France and of the Ministry of Culture. 

This is a really gorgeous building. It’s highlight is the mix of modern and antique: in front of the palace you will indeed be able to see a permanent exhibit of striped columns of different sizes. The palace is open every day from 7:00 am, so go as early as possible before others arrive, for better photo opportunities.

Pantheon

Antoine and Marielle, Offbeat Escapades

The Pantheon is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Paris. This beautiful building is home to various renowned French men and women who sacrificed their lives or contributed to the Republic in some notable manner. Some of these noteworthy individuals include Jean Moulin, Victoria Hugo and Maria Curie, to name a few.

To make the most out of this attraction, there are many places to stay in Paris close to everything so that tourists can be within walking distance to the Pantheon. 

Walking around the building, you will be impressed by the Neoclassical architecture of the Pantheon – combining Gothic decorations, dramatic columns, and wide spaces. The exterior facade is also a wonder to behold, similar to that of the Pantheon found in Rome.

Last but not the least, the most instagrammable thing about the Pantheon is it’s breathtaking views at the rooftop. Although it takes about 276 steps to get to the top of the building, the experience is so worth it as it provides the most impressive panoramic views of all of Paris.

As such, it is recommended to visit during the sunset hours to get the best photographs of the city. Entrance fees cost about 9 euros per adult.

Trocadéro

Dymphe, Dymabroad

One of the most instagrammable places in Paris is Trocadéro, from there you can get one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower! It is a place that is near the Eiffel Tower but on the opposite side of the river Seine. This place is great if you want to take many photos.

There is a variety of places that each make your photos look different from each other. For example, there are stairs with a view of the Eiffel Tower, there is a large square where you can take a wide image with the Eiffel Tower in the background, and there are several places where you can sit while taking a photo.

The use of stone you can see everywhere at Trocadéro gives the place a very luxurious feeling. The place is also perfect for sunsets because the sun often makes the sky look orange, which adds a beautiful effect to your photos.

Also, when you go here at the beginning of the day, there aren’t many people, which makes it much easier to take photos here. What’s great is that you can easily get there, as there is a metro station at Trocadéro. You can easily walk here from many other parts in the city, such as the Arc de Triomphe.

Eiffel Tower

Debbie, World Adventurists

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous and recognizable structures in the world and is a distinctive symbol of the city of Paris. It was created in 1889 as the entrance to the World’s Fair and most called the tower things like “useless” and “monstrous”.

Today, the wrought-iron lattice tower is recognized as a structure of beauty. If you think the Eiffel Tower is impressive from afar, your mind will be blown as you get closer and closer.

One of the most special moments to have at the Eiffel Tower is to enjoy the sunset and watch the tower light up, covered in golden lights.

It sparkles for five minutes every hour on the hour. The best place to watch the light show is from Place du Trocadéro. The experience is best paired with some wine, cheese and crackers.

There are many great photo spots to capture the Eiffel Tower. Take a walk from the Louvre towards the Eiffel Tower. Or, the northern side of the river has some great perspectives from any of the bridges. Head out early in the morning to have fewer people around.

Prices for climbing the Eiffel Tower for the outstanding views vary, depending if you are willing to walk up some flights of stairs, or want to take the lift the whole way up.

Adult rates start at 10,50€, with the most expensive option being 26,10€. If you’re able to climb the stairs, we recommend it. Sometimes it can save you a two-hour wait. You are also able to book your tickets ahead of time.

The iron lattice tower is located on the Champ de Mars in Paris. The Eiffel Tower is accessible on public transport and by car. 

The Champ de Mars and Trocadero areas around the Eiffel Tower are also great places to explore.

Luxembourg Gardens 

Denise, Chef Denise

The 23 hectares of the Jardin du Luxembourg or Luxembourg Gardens in the 6^th arrondissement offers many Instagram-worthy opportunities.

The obvious shot is the grand Luxembourg Palace which dates back to 1612 and is now owned by the French Senate. Next, you’ll probably notice the beautiful flowers of the immaculately manicured gardens that are in every nook and cranny.

You can’t go wrong with a photo of the large fountain in the middle, Le Grand Bassin, which certainly gets a lot of attention from model sailboat enthusiasts. The statues found at the perimeter of this central area are also quite impressive, especially with a pigeon on top.

The old men playing boule in their French caps could provide an authentic local moment. Or perhaps you’d like a food pic of the Croque Monsieur you can order at one of the restaurants found within the garden gates?

However, tucked at the end of a short path near the Palace, is the best photo spot in the gardens, and one of the most Instagrammable spots in Paris, the Medici Fountain.

Originally built in 1630 by Marie de’ Medici, the widow of King Henry IV of France, the fountain was then moved to its current location in the mid-1800s, and was rebuilt to include the centerpiece sculpture Polyphemus Surprising Acis and Galatea, by Auguste Ottin.

This is truly one of those places that takes your breath away. The peaceful seclusion of the fountain makes it feel private and adds another layer of romanticism to the sculpture of the lovers.

After you take your perfect picture, you can easily spend a few hours in this park-like setting enjoying all of the amenities and taking a few runner-up photos.

The Luxembourg Gardens are free to enter which you can do from the bordering streets of Rue de Vaugirard, Rue Guynemer, Rue August-Comte, Boulevard Saint-Michel, and Rue de Medici, the latter being the closest to the Medici Fountain. Depending on the day and the season, the gardens open between 7:30 and 8:15 am and close at sunset.

Terrasse Panoramique du Printemps

Marguerite, Berlin & Around

For panoramic views of the French capital, head to the 9th floor of the Printemps department store on Boulevard Haussmann. The gorgeous terrace wraps around the upper level, capturing all of Paris’ skyline from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre.   

The terrace is divided into two parts. First, there is the viewing platform, which is free of charge. Then, there is ample outdoor seating, exclusively reserved, however, for patrons of the surroundings bistros and cafes.   

While you can just go for the photo ops, it might be hard to resist purchasing a croissant or coffee to enjoy high above the city! Need to check your social media or emails? The Terrasse Panoramique is equipped with free wifi, as well.  

The chic department store is located in the coveted 8th Arrondissement, known for designer fashion, stylish galleries and trendy cafes. The Printemps is only a stone’s throw from the Opera Garnier and a quick stroll to the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens.  

You can easily make a day of strolling the majestic boulevards of the 8th and shopping your heart out at the Printemps and the neighbouring Galeries Lafayette. 
Please note that, due to Covid, the department store and panoramic terrace are currently closed.  

Hotel de Ville

Tanya, Travel and Treasures

Located in the 4th arrondissement (pronounced ar-ron-deez-mon, in French) stands the Hôtel de Ville. It was built in the early 1500s and the symbol of French liberation and its historical evolution. The building has survived multiple fires, decay, and destruction, but you can hardly tell by its grand Parisian facade. 

During the day, the plaza is bustling with performers and people traversing the city. The water fountains soften the concrete elements and allow you to drink in the neo-classical architecture. However, the lighting at night displays a much more dramatic effect. It is possible to enter free of charge and guided tours are available by reservation.  

Among the novelties of the rebuilt edifice are the statues that adorn the facades, representing personalities – more or less known today – from the world of art, science, or politics, all from Paris. Whether you visit during the day or night, the architecture is quite impressive.   

Instagram-worthy photos can be taken inside and outside. The exterior Renaissance-style building forms a classical backdrop. And if you don’t have time to see the real Palace of Versailles, you can enjoy a replica of the Hall of Mirrors, as well as other exhibits, inside Hotel de Ville! 

Paris has a superb network of underground trains, which is the best way to travel through the city. Take the Paris Metro line 1 and exit at the Hotel de Ville stop. The Place de l’Hotel de Ville is across the street. 

Open: Monday to Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM  

The proximity to famous points of interest makes it easy to capture more photos while roaming the area. Notre Dame is just an 8-minute walk from the Palace. You’ll need to cross the Seine River on Rue de l’Arcole and turn left at Rue du Cloitre-Notre-Dame. Can’t get enough of exquisite architecture and stained glass? Visit Sainte Chapelle by crossing the Seine river at Pont au Change.

You can tour this 14th-century royal chapel during the day, or enjoy a classical concert with dinner. How about a sweet and creamy dessert? Berthillon is world-famous for its glacee (ice-cream). It’s located near Rue des Deux Ponts and Rue Saint-Louis en I’lle intersection. Afterward, you can enjoy a lovely stroll along the Seine or watch the boats pass from the bridge. 

Notre Dame Cathedral

Jesal, Tourists to Travellers

Located on the banks of the Seine river in Paris, stands tall this beautiful architectural marvel : The Notre Dame cathedral. It’s a fine example of French Gothic architecture. Small intricately carved statues form a part of the exterior of the Cathedral.

Interestingly, the cathedral welcomes over 13 million visitors every year, beating even the Eiffel Tower. Some of the Instagram worthy spots include;

1. The portal of last judgement that contains statues of angels, prophets and Christ

2. The gargoyles, originally designed as water spouts, can be seen by climbing 387 steps to the top of the bell towers

3. The Rose Windows where the center oculus features Mary holding Christ.

4. The grounds of Notre Dame cathedral

Notre-Dame is on the eastern half of ILE DE LA CITE in the fourth arrondissement. You can reach the Notre Dame on the Metro: Line 4: Cite or Saint-Michel station, Lines 1 and 11: Hotel de Ville station, Line 10: La Sorbonne or Maubert station, Lines 7, 11 and 14: Chatelet station or the RER: Line B and C: Saint-Michel Notre-Dame.

Daily from 8 am to 6.45 pm. Access to the cathedral is free for all even if you want to climb to the top of the bell tower.

Montmartre

Elisa, World in Paris

The bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre is one of the most picturesque places in Paris, with endless photo opportunities. It is located on the top of a hill, in Paris 18, and it is a lovely place with cobblestone streets, beautiful squares, and pretty architecture.

Because of its geography, Montmartre has many stairs to connect the streets, a particularity of this neighborhood that makes it part of its charm.

Montmartre is also the neighborhood of the Sacré Coeur, one of the most visited sites in Paris, and the Moulin Rouge cabaret.

The best way to reach Montmartre is by metro. You can start your Montmartre walking tour at Place des Abbesses (metro line 12, stop Abbesses), a lovely corner perfect for the first shots. Here, you will find one of the iconic metro entrances, a carousel, and a lovely café covered by a beautiful wisteria. Behind, in the little square Jean Rictus, there’s the famous love wall.

Other places worth a stop for some shots are the Bâteau Lavoir, Rue de l’Abrevoir – with the Pink House on the top – or Place du Tertre, where the famous Montmartre painters are.

The best time to visit Montmartre is during the shoulder seasons, spring or fall, when there are lesser tourists. Try to arrive early in the morning for the best shots without the crowds!

Arc de Triomphe

Alice, Adventures of Alice

There are some fab things to do in Paris and it’s one of those gorgeous European cities with an almost uncountable amount of great photography spots. One of the best ones (besides the Eiffel Tower of course) is the Arc de Triomphe. The beautiful spot is on Place de L’Etoile at the western end of the Champs-Elysées the construction for the Arc de Triomphe started on 15 August 1806 and it was completed on 29 July 1836.

The Arc itself was built in astylar style architecture and was created as a memento to the victims of the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Each side of the arch is decorated with carvings, sculptures and relics from the 1790s and 1800s, like the Battle of Austerlitz and Fall of Alexandria. The names of all French victories and generals are also inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces. It really is a beautiful structure and one of the best things to see in the city. 

For a small fee, you can climb the steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Inside there is a small museum with artefacts and facts from the war but one of the most Instagrammable spots in Paris is the observation deck at the top of the arch. You will see breath-taking views of the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré Coeur, and the Louvre, as well as the tree-lined Champs-Elysées. It’s also in the centre of one of the busiest roundabouts in Paris, and you’ll also get views of some pretty bonkers driving!

Overall, as a gorgeous Parisian attraction, the Arc de Triomphe is a great spot for Instagram lovers visiting the city.

Sainte Chapelle Royal Chapel

Olivia, Girl with Blue Sails

Sainte Chappelle Royal Chapel is a bit of a hidden gem, but, once visitors step inside, it’s easy to see why this is one of the most instagrammable places in Paris. Lining the entire inside of the chapel are 1,113 stained-glass windows from eye-height to ceiling. The ornate detail in the glass is remarkable, and the way the gold support beams lead the eye up to the vaulted ceilings creates an optical illusion. 

Located just a short walk from the infamous Notre Dame cathedral, Sainte Chappelle Royal Chappelle is a perfect stop to make on the way to or from Notre Dame when planning a day in Paris. Tickets are required for entry, and can either be purchased on site or ahead of time online via the Sainte Chapelle website.  

The best time of day to visit the Saint Chappelle royal chapel is in the morning or afternoon. Not only are these the best times to beat any crowds, but they are the times to get best light for photos. At any time of day visitors will experience the ethereal purple light and ambience created by the stained-glass. Visiting in the morning or afternoon, however, brings that gorgeous purple light streaming in through the windows, setting up the perfect stunning backdrop for Instagram photos. 

Château de Versailles

Kim, Work Hard Travel Well

The Palace of Versailles is easily one of the most popular and Instagrammable spots near Paris. The Palace of Versailles is located up to 50 mins from Paris and makes a perfect day trip from Paris. You can arrive by bus, train or car. The cheapest option is the train.

If you choose to take the train, you would take the RER C train to the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station and then walk 15 minutes to the Palace of Versailles. Be sure to ask your hotel for the best way to get to the RER C train route. The quickest way to the Palace is by car but it is not the cheapest. 

The Palace of Versailles was the main residence for the Royal Family from the late 1600s to the late 1700s.In addition to the Palace, you can visit the estate of Trianon, The  Gardens and the Park. Ticket prices vary and depend on which areas you want to visit. Ticket prices range from 8,5 Euros to 27 Euros.

If you want to see all of it, you should consider purchasing a Passport with timed entry to avoid long wait times.

During Covid, the Palace may be closed, but the gardens are open. It is best to review the hours and any changes here.

Notable Instagrammable spots include the Hall of Mirrors inside the palace and many spots inside the gardens and the park.

The Best Photography Courses in Paris

A fantastic way to see the city and to learn how to photograph the iconic sites of Paris is to take a photography course in Paris.

Why not try a 3 hour walking tour around Paris with a local professional photographer? You will learn about the sites of Paris, the basics of photography, the best angles and exposures for capturing the perfect photo in Paris. This tour departs during the day and at night time. On the night tour you will learn how to capture the beauty of the Paris and the night lights.

The tour is a private tour which allows you to get the most out of your tour and ask your guide all of your burning questions.

The Best Photoshoots in Paris

If you are looking for those highly instagrammable photos, opting for a photoshoot might be what you need. Having a local photographer at your disposal can often allow you access to areas that are not available to the general public. Many of the Paris roof tops with the best views of Paris are only available to locals and not tourists.

The Best Photography Courses before you go to Paris

Making the transition from auto mode to manual mode on your camera can be quite intimidating, there are many settings on the camera and it can be quite hard to know which setting suits best for the situation you are in.

Love Hard Travel Often has a fantastic course, that allows you to go at your own pace and find your way around your camera. The simple explanations allow you to easily navigate your camera and to practice before you head off on your holiday.

Learning how to use your camera before you go on your holiday ensures you spend your time capturing perfect photographs rather than worrying about your camera.

How to edit your Paris photos

When I travel, I often look back through my photos and find they are missing the “wow factor” or they’re not as polished as the photos you see on Instagram or Pinterest. Most of the magic you see in photos is done after the fact.

Editing the lighting allows you to bring to life the feelings you had in the moment. Just like photography, editing can be time consuming and overwhelming.

Using Lightroom (either the mobile app – which is free, or the desktop program) is the best way to edit your photos. These days you can purchase presets that allow you to edit your photos in the click of a button (or the tap of your finger).

All of my photos are edited using presets from Flying the Nest or Love Hard Travel Often. Flying the Nest presets come with a mini course on how to edit your photos with the presets and how to get the best out of the presets. Love Hard Travel Often presets has a PDF guide on how to install your presets into Lightroom.

For 10% of all of Flying the Nests Courses and Products feel free to use TRAVELLINGTHIRTIES10 at checkout

Camera Bag Essentials

Where is your favourite photo spot in Paris? Let me know in the comments below

Share it!