The Best Places with Panoramic Views of Paris

Paris, the City of Lights, seduces by its exceptional heritage and its unparalleled urban landscapes.

To admire it from another angle, there's nothing like climbing up!

Between iconic monuments and unknown terraces, here are the 10 must-see places offering panoramic views of Paris:

1. The Eiffel Tower
2. Galeries Lafayette
3. The Grande Arche de la Défense
4. Saint-Jacques' Tower
5. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart
6. The André Citroën Park
7. The Montparnasse Tower Panoramic Observatory
8. The Pompidou Center
9. The Arab World Institute
10. The Pantheon

Get ready to discover these exceptional places that will make you rediscover the capital!

1. The Eiffel Tower: The Queen of Panoramas

It's impossible to talk about views of Paris without talking about the Eiffel Tower. This masterpiece of engineering, built in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel, rises to 324 meters. Its summit offers a breathtaking view, where the iconic monuments of Paris are revealed, from the Montparnasse Tower to the Seine meandering through the city.

📌 Anecdote: In 1889, some Parisians considered the Eiffel Tower to be a “metallic disgrace.” Today, it embodies Parisian romance.
🍴 Gourmet tip: Dine at 58 Eiffel Tower, located on the first floor, for a culinary experience at altitude.

2. Galeries Lafayette: Luxury and Panorama

The famous Galeries Lafayette is not limited to their impressive Art Nouveau dome or Christmas windows. Head up to the terrace and discover a free panoramic view of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower, the Opéra Garnier, and the Haussmann roofs in the background.

📌 Anecdote: The Galeries Lafayette building was originally designed to house a luxury hotel.
🍴 Recommended break: Try the restaurant Creatures, nestled on the rooftop, which offers tasty vegetarian cuisine.

3. The Grand Arch of Defense: A Unique Perspective

To the west of Paris, the Grande Arche de la Défense impresses with its modern architecture. Its 1,000 m² terrace, 110 meters high, offers an exceptional view of the historic axis connecting the Louvre, the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. In addition to the view, cultural exhibitions enrich the experience.

📌 Anecdote: Contrary to what many people think, the Grande Arche is not perfectly cubic: its dimensions are asymmetric.
🍴 Where to eat? The restaurant La City offers inventive cuisine nearby.

4. Saint-Jacques Tower: A Slice of History

Located in the heart of Paris, the Saint-Jacques Tower is a Gothic relic from the 16th century. After climbing its 300 steps, you will enjoy an incredible panorama of the Parisian roofs, the Louvre, and much more.

📌 Anecdote: Blaise Pascal conducted experiments on atmospheric pressure there, and a statue at the bottom of the tower pays tribute to him.
🎨 To be observed: The gargoyles and statues of saints that adorn this tower are true masterpieces.

5. The Sacré-Coeur Basilica: A Breathtaking View of Montmartre

Perched on the hill of Montmartre, the Sacré-Coeur Basilica is one of the most popular places to admire Paris. From the forecourt or the dome, located 129 meters above sea level, the view is simply magical, especially at sunset.

📌 Anecdote: Contrary to what one might think, the Basilica was financed by donations from thousands of faithful after the defeat of Prussia in 1870.
🎭 Local tip: Take advantage of your visit to stroll through the streets of Montmartre and discover local artists.

6. The André Citroën Park: Nature and Height

This modern park, built on the site of a former Citroën factory, is perfect for a family outing. The park's tethered balloon, which rises to 150 meters, offers you a spectacular view of Paris and its surroundings. In addition to the view, the park is divided into three spaces: the white garden, the black garden and a large central park.

📌 Anecdote: The balloon is used to measure the air quality in Paris, in addition to transporting visitors.
👨 ‍ 👩 ‍ 👧 ‍ 👦 Ideal for: Families looking for a fun and educational activity.

7. The Montparnasse Tower Panoramic Observatory

Culminating at 210 meters, the Montparnasse Tower is one of the best places for a 360° view of Paris. From its observatory, admire the Eiffel Tower, the Invalides and even the Bois de Boulogne in the distance. It's especially beautiful at nightfall, when the city lights up.

📌 Anecdote: Many Parisians criticize the aesthetics of the Montparnasse Tower, but its exceptional view makes it a must.
🍴 Recommendation: The restaurant Paris sky, located on the 56th floor, offers you a dinner with panoramic views.

8. The Pompidou Center: Art and Altitude

The Pompidou Center is famous for its industrial architecture and modern art collections. But it also hides a breathtaking view accessible via its transparent tube escalator. From the terrace, the Eiffel Tower, Montmartre and other monuments are revealed.

📌 Anecdote: In 1977, the opening of the Pompidou Center caused a lot of controversy because of its daring style.
🍴 Gourmet suggestion: Try the restaurant Le Georges, located on the roof, for fine cuisine.

9. The Arab World Institute: A Surprising View

In the 5th arrondissement, the Arab World Institute (IMA) offers a terrace with free access to discover the Seine, Notre-Dame, and Haussmann buildings. This place combines culture and modernity, with exhibitions on the Arab world.

📌 Anecdote: The facade of the IMA, composed of automated moucharabiehs, is a technological and aesthetic masterpiece.
🍴 Gourmet detour: The restaurant The Zyriab, on site, offers oriental cuisine with an exceptional view.

10. More Scenic Places to Explore

Paris is full of other spots to admire its panoramas:

• The Pantheon : Offering a magnificent view from its dome.
• Belleville Park : One of the highest points in Paris, ideal for a nature break.
• Mont Valerian : Located on the western outskirts, it reveals an impressive view over all of Paris.
• The Orsay Museum : From its terrace, you can contemplate the Seine and the Tuileries Garden.

Key Points to Remember to Admire Paris from Above

1. Iconic monuments : Don't miss the Eiffel Tower, the Montparnasse Tower or the Sacré-Coeur Basilica.
2. Terraces and rooftops : Galeries Lafayette and the IMA are perfect places for a panoramic break.
3. Unusual activities : Try the tethered balloon at the André Citroën Park or the exhibitions at the Grande Arche.
4. Ideal moments : Prefer sunrise or sunset for even more magical views.
5. Varied options : Paris offers panoramas for all tastes, from modern to heritage.

Discover Paris in a different way and, why not, imagine living in an apartment with a breathtaking view. To do this, contact HOME SELECT, your real estate expert in Paris.