9 Travelers’ Favorite Views Over Paris – From Real Visitors
There’s no shortage of places in Paris to admire the city from above. But instead of the usual tourist lists, this one is based on real traveler picks, shared by people who’ve actually been there and chosen their favorites.
Here are the spots they loved most, and why each one stands out.
1. Arc de Triomphe
The viewing platform at the top of the Arc de Triomphe offers one of the most balanced views in Paris. From there, you get a clear look down the Champs-Élysées, toward La Défense, and across to the Eiffel Tower.
The platform isn’t huge, but it’s well-organized and has some of the best symmetry in the cityscape. Open daily, with reduced rates for EU residents under 26.
2. The Panthéon
Fewer people think to climb the Panthéon dome, but it’s one of the best 360° views in the city. You’re in the Latin Quarter, so the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Montmartre are all visible from different angles.
Entry is ticketed, and the dome access is seasonal, but it’s worth checking dates if you want a complete city view without huge crowds.
3. Institut du Monde Arabe – Rooftop Terrace
This lesser-known spot overlooks the Seine and gives a direct view of Notre-Dame and Île de la Cité. The rooftop is free to access, even if you’re not visiting the museum.
It’s especially good in the morning when the sun hits the cathedral from behind. The building itself is interesting to see because of its unique mechanical façade, made of metal panels that adjust to control light inside.
4. Buttes-Chaumont Park
At the top of this hilly park in the 19th arrondissement, you’ll find a small temple and viewpoints facing Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur.
It’s not high in elevation compared to towers, but the angle and the park’s relaxed setting make it a favorite for locals. Best around sunset.
5. Sacré-Cœur
You can get a great view just by standing on the steps in front of the basilica. For a higher perspective, climb to the dome (entry fee required).
This spot offers sweeping views over the rooftops of Paris, especially beautiful in early morning or late afternoon light. It’s often busy, but worth it.
6. Les Terrasses de Beaubourg
These are the exterior escalator terraces at the Centre Pompidou. As you go up the tubes, you’ll get progressively better views of the city, especially looking out toward the Eiffel Tower and across the rooftops of Le Marais.
Access is included with a museum ticket, but sometimes you can ask just to visit the top floor café.
7. Printemps Rooftop Terrace
On top of the Printemps department store near Opéra, there’s a free rooftop terrace with seating, drinks, and a full panoramic view.
It’s one of the few free spots in central Paris where you can sit down, relax, and enjoy the skyline. Great Eiffel Tower views from here too.
8. Top of Notre-Dame
The towers of Notre-Dame used to be one of the top observation points in the city. While they’ve been closed since the 2019 fire, they’re expected to reopen soon.
When accessible, the climb gives you close-up views of the gargoyles and a wide view of central Paris from a unique location.
9. Parc de Saint-Cloud
Located west of Paris across the Seine, this park sits on a hillside and gives you a full skyline view from a distance.
You won’t be in the center, but you’ll see it all – Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse, and La Défense in one shot. It’s a local picnic spot, rarely crowded with tourists.
10. Institut de France – Lantern View
The dome of the Institut de France isn’t a common tourist stop, but it offers one of the rarest 360° views in Paris, right from the lantern at the top.
Access is limited and requires advance reservation, but public visits are possible year-round through their official website. The best chance to explore more of the building is during the Journées Européennes du Patrimoine (European Heritage Days) each September, when the entire site is open.
The view from the top is unlike any other: central, elevated, and with a full sweep of the Seine, the Louvre, and beyond.
Located at 23 Quai de Conti in the 6th arrondissement, the building itself is worth seeing even if you don’t go inside. But if you get the chance to climb to the lantern, it’s one of those Paris experiences you won’t forget.
11. Sorbonne Observatory
Perched atop one of the oldest universities in Paris, the Sorbonne Observatory offers a surprising view over the rooftops of the Latin Quarter. You can see the Eiffel Tower in the distance and get a rare angle on central Paris.
But access is limited, it’s not open to the public year-round. Visits are usually possible only during special events like the Journées Européennes du Patrimoine in September.
If you’re in Paris during that weekend, it’s worth checking the program. Otherwise, it’s one of those hidden places you might admire more in photos than in person.