Vue panoramique de Paris depuis la terrasse de l'Arc de triomphe de l'Étoile

Monuments with a view in Paris Region

At its centre or from its suburbs, Paris is full of exceptional and rare perspectives that will delight photography aficionados in search of new vistas.
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If you think you have discovered all of Paris's treasures on foot, on a cruise on the Seine, or aboard a Big Bus, arm yourself with your camera and get ready to take the higher ground. From the top of some of the capital's most emblematic sites, Paris seen from above is even more breathtaking.

Monumental views

For centuries, the great Parisian monuments have kept watch over the city's most beautiful panoramas, with the Eiffel Tower at the top of the list.

On the first floor, Madame Brasserie and its large bay windows promise you a unique lunch or dinner overlooking the Champs de Mars which spreads out at your feet.

The more adventurous among you can keep climbing to the top floor where, at 180 meters above ground, the view over Paris extends for more than 70 kilometres.

Tour Eiffel
Eiffel Tower

In the middle of the Place de l’Étoile, the Arc de Triomphe offers an unobstructed view over the avenues at its feet, including the most famous, the Champs-Élysées.

Open until 10.30pm in winter and 11pm in summer, don't miss climbing to its terrace at nightfall to capture this magical moment facing the bright lights of the city.

Arc de Triomphe%252C Paris.
Arc de triomphe

From April to October, a guided tour of the upper floors of the Pantheon, sitting atop the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève hill, will give you unprecedented views over the Latin Quarter, the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Sorbonne.

Panthéon
Panthéon

Photogenic temples

Just a stone's throw from the Opera Garnier, the department stores are well known to shopping enthusiasts and lovers of architecture, who wander the aisles of Galeries Lafayette to photograph its monumental dome, or enjoy lunch under the Printemps' sublime glass-domed roof.

But few know that a whole other spectacle awaits on the roofs of these celebrated places. From the seventh floor of Galeries Lafayette and the ninth floor of Printemps (Beauté & Maison building), you can enjoy exceptional 360 ° views over Paris.

Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann%252C vue sur la coupole
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann

Escape to cloud nine

The view from the panoramic observation deck of Paris’ highest skyscraper, the Montparnasse Tower is breathtaking. Capture the magical sunset over the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or the Sacré-Cœur from the 56th floor of the tower or the outdoor terrace.

Une femme de dos prend une photo de la tour Eiffel à partir de l&%2523039;observatoire tour Montparnasse
The Montparnasse Tower Panoramic Observation Deck

Enjoy a romantic ride for two, or the whole family, at the Parc André Citroën (the Eiffel Tower is only two RER stations away) aboard the tethered helium balloon, the Ballon de Paris, that will fly you 150 meters above sea level.

Soak up the view of the park and also see the banks of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower as you have never seen them before.

Ballon de Paris vue Seine et Tour Eiffel
The Parc André Citroën

Out of sight

As well as being one of the most emblematic monuments in Paris, the Sacré-Cœur also offers a magnificent view of the capital. Put on your most comfortable trainers and climb the 300 steps to the top of the basilica. It’s well worth the effort!

Basilique du Sacre Coeur
Montmartre Sacré-Coeur Basilica

Popular with Parisians and occasional visitors who enjoy lounging on its lawns, the parc des Buttes-Chaumont, with its lake, hills and numerous green spots, also offers a unique view over part of the capital. The climb up to the Temple de la Sybille, 150 feet above the lake on an island linked by a bridge can be demanding but you’ll be amply rewarded by the scenery that unfolds before you!

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Buttes-Chaumont Park

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  • Copyright image: Arnaud Frich / Centre des monuments nationaux