This 2.50€ Metro Ride Has Better Views Than Most Paris Tours
Most people pay for boat cruises, bus tours, or day passes. But there’s a way to see Paris that locals use every day. It runs right through the heart of the city, costs the price of a single metro ticket, and offers views that would easily fit into a guidebook.
It’s Paris Métro Line 6. And if you want to experience Paris without the crowds or the price tag, here’s why it belongs on your itinerary.
1. The Tower Right from Your Seat
You’ll get a full view of the Eiffel Tower as your train crosses the Pont de Bir-Hakeim. No angles, scaffolding, or need to zoom in, it’s just there, towering across the river, framed by the open air. One of the only moving views of the tower that doesn’t feel rushed or obstructed.
To see it clearly, sit on the right side of the train if you’re heading east toward Nation. The view is fast but unmistakable.
2. A Bridge That Belongs in Films
This isn’t just a random bridge crossing. Pont de Bir-Hakeim has a unique two-level structure—cars and pedestrians below, trains above. It’s been used as a filming location in movies like Inception for good reason. The steel columns and symmetry create striking visuals whether you’re riding over it or standing underneath.
It’s one of the only bridges in Paris with dedicated metro tracks suspended above the Seine. You don’t need to walk it to appreciate it—riding across is its own experience.
3. The Metro Goes Above Ground
This line doesn’t vanish into tunnels after a few stops. Most of Line 6 is elevated. You glide past tree-lined avenues, rooftops, and inner courtyards, watching Paris roll by from an open perspective few other metro lines offer.
It’s a rare chance to see how the neighborhoods fit together without switching to a bus or tram.
4. Major Sights On One Line
Line 6 connects several high-interest spots for visitors. Bir-Hakeim puts you near the Eiffel Tower. Trocadéro is one of the best-known panoramic platforms for photos. At Denfert-Rochereau, you can head directly to the Paris Catacombs.
On the opposite end, the Charles de Gaulle–Étoile station is right at the Arc de Triomphe, with the Champs-Élysées just ahead.
If you’re planning a walking-heavy day, you can map out an entire sightseeing route around this line.
5. Less Crowded Than the Central Lines
Outside of rush hour, Line 6 is a relatively calm ride. You’ll often find a seat, especially in the midday hours, and it rarely feels packed. That’s a welcome change if you’ve just battled your way onto Line 1 or Line 4.
It’s a space to breathe and look around, instead of fighting for elbow room.
6. Softer, Smoother Trains
Paris has a few metro lines with rubber tires, and Line 6 is one of them. This creates less screeching and more of a gentle roll between stations.
The acceleration and braking are softer, which makes the above-ground ride feel even more like a guided tour than a commute.
It’s not something most tourists notice, but once you do, the difference is clear.
7. Great for Quick Photos
If you’re into photography, Line 6 is a surprisingly good place to shoot. The view of the Eiffel Tower from the train, the clean symmetry of Pont de Bir-Hakeim, and the curves of the line as it swings past rooftops all provide great opportunities.
Even without stepping off the train, you’ll find spots worth capturing through the window.
Only €2.50
There’s no special ticket required. Line 6 is part of the regular RATP network. A single-ride ticket or a Navigo day pass will do. That means you can hop on, enjoy the ride, and hop off wherever you like.
No QR codes, no time slots, no reservations. It’s city transport at its simplest.
Extra Tip for the Best Ride
Go during daylight, preferably when the sky is clear, and sit on the right side when going toward Nation. You’ll get the clearest Eiffel Tower view and better light for the rest of the trip. If you’re going the other direction, shoot for the left side.
It’s an everyday metro line but it might give you one of your most memorable views of Paris.