Paris, the city of light, is not only famous for its history, culture and gastronomy, but also for being a paradise for photography lovers. From its iconic monuments to its charming cobbled streets, every corner offers a new opportunity to capture the essence of the city.
If you’re looking for the perfect photo to immortalise your trip, you’re in the right place. In this blog, we bring you the TOP 10 locations in Paris where you can take the best photo. Whether it’s for your Instagram feed, a souvenir of your holiday or simply to admire the beauty of the City of Light and all the best things to do in Paris.
So, if you’re wondering things to do in Paris, get your camera ready and join us on this photo tour of the city!
Things to do in Paris: The must-sees
1. The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower, inaugurated in 1889 and designed by Gustave Eiffel, is one of the most emblematic symbols & things to do in Paris. At 330 metres high, it was the tallest structure in the world until 1930. Originally conceived as a temporary structure, its wrought-iron design and 18,038 parts have made it an icon of engineering. Today, it is one of the world’s most visited attractions, with three accessible levels offering spectacular views of the city.
Interestingly, the tower was criticised at first, and during World War II it was closed to the public. It also changes colour every 7 years, with its current shade being known as “Eiffel Tower brown”. Go up to the first floor by following this link.
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If you prefer a closer approach, the Place du Trocadéro is the typical image to see, plus the Champ de Mars also offers great views, especially at sunset. But, I recommend heading to Rue de l’Universite, located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris for a more bohemian and interesting view of the tower; and another location other than the typical photos of the tower is on Avenue de New York. If you want to be more adventurous in the middle of the Pont d’Léna where you would capture a stunning image with the Eiffel Tower. Obviously, of all the things to do in Paris, these places are a must for getting the best shot of the capital’s iconic monument.
2. The Louvre Museum
Opened in 1793, the Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most important museums and things to do in Paris; it houses a vast collection of art ranging from Antiquity to the 19th century. Among its most famous works are the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and the Victory of Samothrace. Originally built as a medieval fortress in 1190, the Louvre was transformed into a royal palace and then a museum during the French Revolution. Today, with more than 35,000 pieces, it is notable for its architecture, which includes the famous glass pyramid designed by I. M. Pei in 1989. During the Second World War, many of its works were evacuated to protect them from Nazi looting. We provide you with this link to get a digital ticket; or if you prefer, enter this link to visit the Louvre and also enjoy a cruise on the Seine.
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To capture the best photo of the Louvre, head to the main square in front of the glass pyramid. From here, you can capture both the pyramid with the grandiose façade of the museum in the background, a spectacular combination. If you visit this must-see building in Paris, inside the rooms are magnificent at sunset, the golden light on the pyramid creates a beautiful contrast, perfect for a memorable photo.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral, built between 1163 and 1345, is a prime example of things to do in Paris in terms of Gothic architecture, famous for its façade, twin towers and stained glass rose window. Located on the Île de la Cité, it has been the scene of historic events such as the coronation of Napoleon. Its Gothic style, with pointed arches and luminous stained-glass windows, makes it a symbol of medieval architecture. After suffering damage during the French Revolution, it was restored in the 19th century, and although a fire in 2019 caused serious damage, it is currently being restored. If you would like to visit the archaeological crypt, here is the link to enter.
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One of the best places to get a stunning photo of Notre-Dame is from the Pont de la Cité, where you can capture the majestic façade of the cathedral with the Seine River in the foreground. You can also take an excellent photo from the Jardin de Notre-Dame, a quieter and lesser-known angle, but equally spectacular for capturing the grandeur of the monument, one of the greatest things to do in Paris. You can also visit it through a virtual experience with this link.
4. Montmartre and the Sacré Coeur Basilica
Montmartre is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods & things to do in Paris, famous for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic history. During the 19th century, it was home to artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh and Henri Toulouse-Lautrec. Today, it remains a picturesque place, with the Place du Tertre filled with artists still creating and selling their work.
At the top of the hill is the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, built between 1875 and 1914. With its white dome and Roman-Byzantine style, it is an important symbol of the city’s spirituality and offers some of the best panoramic views of Paris. The basilica was built in response to the defeat in the Franco-Prussian war of 1870 and houses impressive mosaics and a large bell, Emmanuel, known for its resonant sound.
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To capture the beauty of Montmartre and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, the best place is the Place du Tertre, from where you can get a panoramic view of the basilica and its surroundings. If you prefer a photo of the basilica from afar, head to the Place de la Concorde, also an important thing to do in Paris, from where you can capture the church in all its splendour. There is also a location that has become very photographable by tourists, which is Le Maison Rose, a traditional French restaurant with a rose-painted façade on Rue de l’Abreuvoir.
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** One of the must-sees in Paris in the Montmartre district is, The Wall of I Love You(Mur des Je T’aime), in the metro station at Place des Abbesses. It is a 40 square metre wall featuring “I love you” written 311 times in 250 languages, promoting unity and peace; and as a symbol of human connection.
5. the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, located in the Place de l’Etoile, was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 and completed in 1836. Standing 50 metres high, it is one of the largest arches in the world, adorned with scenes of battles and victories. At its base is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute to the fallen soldiers of the First World War. The arch stands at one of the busiest intersections to see in Paris, surrounded by 12 avenues. From its top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower and the Champs Elysées. In addition, the 14th of July parade and other patriotic events are held in front of it.
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The best view of the Arc de Triomphe is from the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, especially when you approach from the west, just before you reach the arch, where you can capture both the grandeur of the monument and the famous avenue in the background. You can also climb up to the terrace of the arch for a breathtaking panoramic view of things to do in Paris, with views of the Champs Elysées and the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
6. Royal Palace
The Palais-Royal (Palais-Royal) is a wonderful historical site if searching things to do in Paris, located in the 1st arrondissement near the Louvre Museum. Originally built between 1624 and 1639 by Cardinal Richelieu, it has been a royal residence and cultural centre over the centuries. Highlights include its peaceful gardens, the galleries surrounded by shops and restaurants, and the theatre housing the Comédie-Française, one of the oldest theatres in France. Today, the palace is accessible to the public, and the gardens and galleries can be visited free of charge, making it an ideal place to enjoy the history and culture of Paris.
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The best photo of the Palais Royal in Paris is taken in the gardens, especially capturing the Buren columns. From the centre of the gardens, you can get a stunning view of both the columns and the palace in the background, creating a unique image. Sunset photos are also ideal to highlight the beauty of this place, perfect for searching things to do in Paris.
7. Alexander III Bridge
The Alexander III Bridge (Pont Alexandre III), inaugurated in 1900, symbolises the alliance between France and Russia. With its elegant design, it connects the Place des Invalides with the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais. This must-see structure in Paris features a 107-metre arch and pylons adorned with statues of winged horses, representing the arts, sciences, commerce and industry. Decorated with Beaux-Arts-style statues and lampposts, the bridge offers spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower and other greatest things to do in Paris.
Built from prefabricated parts, its foundation stone was laid by Tsar Nicholas II in 1896. The bridge was declared a historical monument in 1975 and has been a World Heritage Site since 1999. It is a popular place for photography, especially at sunset.
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If you’re looking for the best photo of the Alexandre III Bridge, I recommend photographing it from the opposite bank of the Seine, near the Grand Palais. From there, you can capture the majesty of the bridge and its architectural setting, especially at sunset, when the bridge and its golden details are illuminated and reflected in the river, creating a breathtaking image.
8. Le Marais
Le Marais is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods & things to do in Paris, known for its history, architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Situated on the banks of the Seine, it encompasses the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of the city. Originally a marshy area, it was transformed into a luxury residential area in the 17th and 18th centuries, attracting the French aristocracy.
Over the centuries, it has been home to diverse communities, notably the Jewish community on Rue des Rosiers, LGBT and Chinese, which have enriched its culture. Its main attractions include narrow streets lined with historic mansions and charming squares, such as the Place des Vosges, museums such as the Musée Picasso and the Musée Carnavalet, and a wide range of fashion boutiques, art galleries and gastronomy.
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The truth is that in this must-see neighbourhood in Paris any street or corner you see is beautiful to take the best photos; a café terrace, in front of the facades of the buildings or even bohemian bakeries,… The Rue des Rosiers offers a unique image, especially in the morning, when the shops and cafés are just beginning to open, capturing the essence of the Jewish quarter of Le Marais. A very nice photo is also at the Place des Vosges, from this point you can capture the elegance of the 17th century buildings surrounding the square.
9. Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, can be added to the things to do in Paris as an excursion, located about 20 km from Paris. This was originally a hunting lodge for Louis XIII, but his son, Louis XIV, transformed it into the royal residence and centre of French power in the 17th century. Famous for its imposing architecture and gardens designed by André Le Nôtre, the palace was inaugurated in 1682. The Hall of Mirrors, one of the main attractions, is known for its natural light reflections and its historical importance, as it was the site of the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919. The gardens, with fountains, canals and the Grand Canal, are one of the site’s greatest gems. The Palace of Versailles was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
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For the best photo of the Palace of Versailles, I recommend capturing it from the front garden, which offers a full view of the building and its facades. Another great location is from the Orangerie, where you can include the gardens in the foreground and the palace in the background. Don’t miss the Grand Canal, also one of the things to do in Paris, and the views it offers of the gardens and the palace, especially at sunset.
Inside, the rooms are magnificent, the most iconic photo of which is in the Hall of Mirrors, where the gilded details and frescoes painted on the ceiling stand out, especially the 17 mirrors that cover all the walls, reflecting the natural light that enters through the huge windows.
10. The Place de la Concorde and the Obelisk
The Place de la Concorde is one of the most emblematic things to do in Paris, located between the Champs Elysées and the Seine River. It witnessed historic events, such as executions during the French Revolution, and is known for the Luxor Obelisk, an ancient Egyptian obelisk donated to France in 1831. The square, designed in 1755 by Jacques-Ange Gabriel, is adorned with monumental fountains and granite columns marking the entrance to the Tuileries Garden, and offers views of the Eiffel Tower. In addition to its historical importance, it hosts national celebrations such as the 14th July parade.
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To capture the best photo of Place de la Concorde and the Obelisk, head to Avenue des Champs Elysées, just before you reach the Arc de Triomphe. From there, you’ll be able to capture both the square and the imposing obelisk in the foreground, with the Avenue des Champs-Elysées and its trees lining it. You can also get an excellent view from the Tuileries Garden, where the obelisk stands out against the Seine River in the background, creating a spectacular image of the heart of Paris.
Things to do in Paris: other TOP locations
Looking for what to see in Paris and, at the same time, capture some of the best views of the city, there are other top photo locations not to be missed. From the breathtaking panoramic views from the Montparnasse Tower to the beautiful landscapes of Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de Belleville, Paris offers a wide variety of scenery perfect for immortalising its beauty. In addition, iconic locations such as the Galeries Lafayette and the famous Moulin Rouge are not only historical landmarks, but also great places to capture the unique essence of the city. Each of these places offers you a spectacular perspective of things to do in Paris.
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is one of the most famous department stores in Paris, located on Avenue Haussmann in the city’s 9th arrondissement. Founded in 1893, the Galeries Lafayette has become an icon of fashion and luxury, offering a wide variety of high-end brands, beauty products and a gourmet section with the best of French gastronomy. The building is famous for its impressive art-nouveau glass dome, which covers the main atrium, creating a luminous and spectacular atmosphere.
The interior of the Galeries Lafayette reflects traditional Parisian architectural style with modern touches, and the glass dome is one of the most recognisable elements of the building. On its rooftop, visitors can enjoy a terrace with panoramic views of all things Paris, including a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower.
The best photo is taken from the top level, just below the glass dome, where you can capture the majesty of the architecture. If you’re looking for a panoramic view of the city, head up to the rooftop for a breathtaking view of Paris.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, located in the 19th arrondissement, is a 25-hectare park inaugurated in 1867. With a unique landscape design, it is remarkable for its cliffs, waterfalls and an artificial lake crossed by a suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel. On Belvédère Island is the Temple of the Sibyl, inspired by the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli. The park offers a wide variety of landscapes to see in Paris, from Norman cliffs to Alpine and Mediterranean forests. Ideal for picnics, walks and relaxation, it is accessible by Buttes-Chaumont, Laumière and Botzaris metro stations, and is open daily from 7am to 8pm.
📷 At the highest point you can take the best photo; near the Temple of the Sibyl, with a panoramic view of the city. The waterfall and the artificial lake are also photogenic spots within the park, perfect for capturing the contrast between nature and the city.
The Montparnasse Tower
The Montparnasse Tower, inaugurated in 1973, is the only skyscraper in the centre of Paris, standing 210 metres high and with 59 floors dedicated to offices. On its 56th floor, it offers an observatory with 360-degree panoramic views of what to see in Paris, including iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. The panoramic rooftop terrace and gourmet restaurant Ciel de Paris provide a unique experience of the city. Although its modern design generated controversy, the tower remains an essential stop for those who want to enjoy a spectacular view of Paris. Open daily from 9:30am to 10:30pm, it is easily accessible by the Montparnasse-Bienvenue metro. By clicking on this link you can enter to see these views.
capture the best photo from the 56th floor, which offers a 360-degree view of Paris. For an even more spectacular view, head up to the panoramic rooftop terrace, where sunset photos are especially impressive.
Parc de Belleville
Parc de Belleville, located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, is one of the highest parks in the city, also with 360-degree panoramic views of everything there is to see in Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre. Inaugurated in 1988, the park features a 100-metre waterfall, 1,200 trees and shrubs, and a children’s area. As a tribute to the local wine tradition, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay vines were planted. Originally an agricultural area, Belleville was urbanised and today’s park is the result of urban renewal. Accessible by several metro stations, it is an ideal space to relax and enjoy nature in the middle of the city.
📷 From the highest point of the park, this is where you can capture one of the best photos with a breathtaking panoramic view of the city with the Eiffel Tower in the background, or photograph the gardens and terraces of the park.
Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay, opened in 1986, is housed in a former train station, one of the best things to do in Paris. The Orsay Station, transformed into a museum. The building, designed for the Universal Exhibition of 1900, stands out for its architecture, especially its large central hall and the famous 2-metre-diameter clock. The museum houses an important collection of art from 1848 to 1914, with outstanding works of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, including artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir and Cézanne. It also preserves original elements of the station, such as the clock and the central hall, which combine the past with modern art. Here is the link to visit it
To capture the best photo in this museum, go to the large central hall, from where you can get a stunning view of the museum with the station clock as the focal point. Plus, the gallery windows overlooking the Seine River provide a unique backdrop for photos and things to do in Paris.
Moulin Rouge
The Moulin Rouge, the iconic cabaret, is one of greatest things to do in Paris, located in Montmartre. Opened in 1889, it is famous for being the birthplace of the can-can, an energetic and sensual dance. Its art-nouveau façade, featuring a windmill, is easily recognisable, and its interior offers a luxurious atmosphere with red and gold velvets. Throughout its history, it has been a meeting place for artists and bohemians, and remains an iconic part of the city. It was featured in the film “Moulin Rouge!” (2001) and continues to offer shows such as the “Féerie” show, which combines music, dance and acrobatics.
for the best photo, capture the façade of the Moulin Rouge from Rue Blanche, especially at night when the red mill is illuminated. You can also take a wider shot that includes the vibrant Montmartre neighbourhood in the background
Remember that with DareMapp you can take a multitude of interactive guided tours, including many of these “European most famous routes” for fun sightseeing around the main destinations.
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