Discovering a city from above is always thrilling, and the panoramic views of Paris, with its world-famous monuments and landmarks, are no exception.
Personally, I love exploring a city from its heights, and Paris is perfect for this as it allows me to see its iconic sites and monuments from unique angles every time.
Having visited all the viewpoints listed, I can attest to their breathtaking panoramas.
Here are my top 10 favourite panoramic views of Paris.
Top 10 panoramic views of Paris
If there is one thing I absolutely love to do in Paris, it is to ascend to the heights and admire the city from above.
There are countless places to explore that offer a unique perspective on Paris’ rooftops and monuments, each providing a distinct and breathtaking view.
I’ve curated a list of my top 10 panoramic views of Paris, but it’s important to note that this list is far from exhaustive.
The city is filled with hidden gems and viewpoints that are equally stunning.
If you know of any other fantastic spots, please share them by leaving a comment at the bottom of the article.
Let’s discover and appreciate the beauty of Paris together!
Eiffel Tower
The third platform of the Eiffel Tower has one of the best views over Paris, stretching for 70 km, as far as the outskirts of the French capital, Charles de Gaulle Airport and the countryside beyond its suburbs.
If you aim to admire Paris itself, it is better to descend to the second platform, from where everything will look closer, and you will be able to see the city’s most famous monuments in detail.
Although the Eiffel Tower is France’s highest viewing point, it is too far west for a good panorama, and many think that the platform of Tour Montparnasse is a much better choice.
Printemps Haussmann
Although not quite as high as the terraces of other monuments, the free platform of department store Printemps on Boulevard Haussmann gives a fine view over the roofs of Paris, particularly those of Haussmannian buildings.
There is a good perspective leading to the Madeleine Church and the Eiffel Tower in the background.
Towers of Notre-Dame
Standing 69 meters high, the South Tower of Notre Dame once offered a magnificent view over West Paris, from the Eiffel Tower to La Défense and Sacré-Cœur.
Although the cathedral is currently closed for restoration following the devastating fire in April 2019, its grand reopening is scheduled for December 8, 2024.
Information about the reopening of the towers to visitors is still unavailable, but it is anticipated to happen sometime in 2025 (or maybe later).
When the towers do reopen, take your time to appreciate the extraordinary view fully.
This vantage point provides a stunning panorama of the city and offers a unique perspective of the cathedral’s greenish roof, iconic clocks, and famous gargoyles.
Dome of Sacré-Cœur
The view of the Paris skyline from the top of Montmartre Hill is one of the most reputed in the capital.
Fewer people know that you can enjoy a much better view by climbing to the dome of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
The vista from the external gallery is breathtaking and extends for over 30 km on a clear day.
Tour Montparnasse
This is our favourite view over Paris! The 56th floor of Tour Montparnasse is ideally located to discover all of Paris: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Montmartre, and the Luxembourg Garden appear under new perspectives.
The open-air roof terrace is open to the public and is best for taking photos of Paris’ most famous monuments and landmarks.
Arc de Triomphe
The panoramic view from the platform of the Arc de Triomphe is fantastic, as it displays the twelve avenues departing from the Place de l’Étoile.
The viewing platform also offers a fine view over the whole Historical Axis, from the Louvre to the Grande Arche in the CBD of La Défense.
The best time of day to appreciate the fine view is to go up at dusk on a sunny day when most of Paris will be illuminated by the light of the setting sun.
Visitors can use the lift or climb the 284 steps to reach the panoramic platform.
Our favourite time to visit the Arc de Triomphe platform is at night in December when the Champs-Élysées are lit with Christmas decorations and lights!
Galeries Lafayette
A rival of the Printemps department store, Galeries Lafayette’s panoramic terrace is worth discovering, with its fine view of the Grands Boulevards district, Notre Dame, and Panthéon.
The surprising mass of Opera Garnier is also remarkable.
Mont Valérien, Suresnes
Mont Valérien is a hill that culminates at 162 m above sea level in the western suburbs of Suresnes.
From the grand terrace at the foot of the fortress, the view stretches from the skyscrapers of La Défense to the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, and the Panthéon.
The whole Bois de Boulogne can be seen at the bottom of the hill.
Parc de Saint-Cloud
The Park of Saint-Cloud offers many viewpoints overlooking Paris.
The terrace at the former palace soars some 100 metres above the Paris skyline, from the skyscrapers of La Défense to the hill of Montmartre, the Eiffel Tower, and the Montparnasse Tower.
Parc de Belleville
The Parc de Belleville in the 20th arrondissement of Paris is situated between the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and the Père Lachaise Cemetery.
It was inaugurated in 1988 on the slopes of the hill of Belleville which reaches an altitude of 108 metres above sea level, making it the highest park in the French capital.
The view over the roofs of Paris is a fantastic one to be admired best under the morning sun.
Find out more about Paris
Discover Paris on the blog:
- The Secret and Offbeat Paris
- The Secrets of the Eiffel Tower
- Discover the 25 most important Landmarks of Paris
Things to see and do in Paris
Paris is a city brimming with endless attractions and activities that cater to every interest and taste.
To maximise your Parisian adventure, consider exploring top-rated experiences and tours through GetYourGuide.
These carefully curated activities ensure you won’t miss any of the city’s highlights while providing a seamless and enjoyable experience.
From guided tours of iconic landmarks to unique culinary experiences, the City of Light offers various ways to enhance your visit.
All good, but don’t forget the top of Centre Pompidou, great detailed views of rooftops and beyond
Yes, that’s a great one too! Thanks! 🙂
Have photos from there!
Love these! I also love seeing a city from above. I’ve been to some, but not all and now I have a list! Merci, Pierre!
Avec plaisir, Ellen!
Thank you so much. All above presented photo are exclusively fine.
You’re welcome!