The Ultimate Guide To Paris’ Best Panoramic Views

By Phil Chavanne

Discover the most breathtaking panoramic views of Paris from four unique vantage points. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these spots offer a fresh perspective on the City of Light. From historic towers to hidden gems, get ready to see Paris like never before, with each location providing a distinct and memorable experience.

Elevate Your Paris Experience: Top Viewing Spots Revealed

Paris, the enchanting city of lights, is not only to be explored at street level. Elevating your gaze reveals a whole new dimension of this iconic metropolis. Paris expert Phil Chavanne recommends that visitors should always “look up while walking,” as the true essence of Paris can be found not just in its bustling streets but also in its skyline. To fully appreciate the grandeur of Paris, consider renting a top-floor apartment on Montmartre hill or simply visit one of the four easily accessible vantage points listed below. These spots offer unparalleled views of the city’s most famous monuments and landscapes.

Tour Montparnasse: A Controversial Giant

The Montparnasse Tower, standing at 210 meters, offers one of the most striking panoramic views of Paris. Despite its controversial history, which sparked heated debates similar to those surrounding the Louvre Pyramid and the Beaubourg Museum of Modern Art, the tower remains a prime spot for visitors. The construction, which began in 1958 and concluded in 1972, was met with resistance from locals who felt it marred the quaint village atmosphere of the Montparnasse area. Nevertheless, the tower was inaugurated in 1973, and shortly after, Paris passed a law restricting the construction of buildings over seven stories high.

The tower boasts 59 floors and a terrace accessible by helicopter. It also features Europe’s fastest elevator, whisking visitors to the top in just 38 seconds. On the 56th floor, there’s a bar where you can enjoy the view, protected from the wind. For more information on the Montparnasse Tower, visit the official website.

La Tour Eiffel: The Iconic Iron Lady

The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, stands at 324 meters tall, including its flagpole. The first floor is 57 meters above the Seine, and the second floor is at 116 meters. This 117-year-old structure weighs approximately 10,100 metric tons, including its concrete base. Visitors can choose between elevators or the 1,665-step staircase to reach the platforms. On average, the wait time for tickets is about 22 minutes.

The tower houses two restaurants, Altitude 95 and Le Jules Verne, offering a unique dining experience with a view. However, it’s advisable to wear a windbreaker during your visit, as the structure provides little protection from the elements. For more details on the Eiffel Tower, check out the official website.

Arc de Triomphe: A Monumental Perspective

The Arc de Triomphe may not be as famous as the Eiffel Tower for its views, but it offers a fascinating panorama of Paris. Erected to honor the French armies, the monument’s pillars are inscribed with the names of significant battlefields. Commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806, it was completed 30 years later under King Louis-Philippe. Beneath it lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from WWI.

The structure is hollow and open to visitors, with tickets available under the plaza. A safer access route is through a tunnel from the Champs Elysees. Atop the monument, a gazebo with a ceramic map helps visitors locate surrounding landmarks. For more information on the Arc de Triomphe, visit the official website.

Rue du Telegraphe and Parc de Belleville: The Unexplored Heights

The Belleville Highs might be a lesser-known spot, but they offer a splendid view of Paris. Contrary to popular belief, the highest point in Paris is not Montmartre Hill but rather Rue du Telegraphe, at an altitude of 128 meters. This location was pivotal in the development of the telegraph by Claude Chappe during the French Revolution.

The Belleville Park, opened in 1988, provides the best vantage point in the district, with its grassy slopes and The Air Museum, which educates visitors on pollution’s impact. Guided tours are available in English. Additionally, Rue du Telegraphe hosts a vibrant farmers’ market on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• The Montparnasse Tower’s 56th-floor bar is a hidden gem, offering a unique indoor viewing experience of Paris.
• The Eiffel Tower attracts nearly 7 million visitors annually, making it the most-visited paid monument in the world, according to the Eiffel Tower’s official website.
• The Arc de Triomphe’s rooftop provides a 360-degree view of the 12 radiating avenues of Paris, a design by Baron Haussmann during the 19th century.
• Parc de Belleville is not only a great spot for panoramic views but also a testament to Paris’s commitment to green spaces, with the park spanning over 45,000 square meters.

These four vantage points offer unique perspectives of Paris, each with its own story and charm. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of a high-speed elevator ride to a skyscraper’s summit or the tranquility of a hilltop park, Paris’s skyline is sure to captivate and enchant.