Where to go to see Paris from above

You simply must see Paris from above to truly appreciate the beauty of the city. Here are 10 viewing platforms that will allow you to admire the skyline and rooftops of Paris. We wish you clear weather for maximum visibility!

The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is Paris’s most famous observation deck. It has three levels. The 1st floor is at 57m, the 2nd floor at 115m and the 3rd floor is about 300m high. Elevators will carry you to each floor. The first and second floors can be reached on foot if you wish, and it is cheaper. The best view is from the second floor.

On the first and second levels there are restaurants where you can have lunch or dinner while feeling as if you’re soaring over Paris. Restaurant visitors can climb the tower without queuing by going through a separate entrance.

The cost of climbing the Eiffel Tower is from 5 to 27 euros, depending on the floor, method and age of the visitor. A table of rates can be found here. You can buy a tour ticket here, and book lunch and dinner here.

» See more – advice and tickets

Montparnasse Tower

Ascent to the roof of the only skyscraper in Paris takes 38 seconds by elevator. The tower is comparable in height to the Eiffel Tower (around 200m), and there are fewer queues. We recommend visiting Montparnasse tower in the evening to see the lights of Paris and the illumination of the Eiffel Tower. It costs up to 18 euros. You can buy tickets to Montparnasse in advance at this link.

Montmartre

The highest natural point of Paris offers the cleanest view of the city, without grilles and glass in the way. The height of the hill is 130m. You can climb on foot (222 steps), ride the funicular railway, or take a bus. The price of transport is 1.9 euros (all Paris passes are valid).

Want to get even higher? Climb under the dome of the Sacre Coeur Basilica. The ticket costs 7 euros. You will have to go up 300 stairs on your own, but the view is worth it if you can handle the climb.

» See more – Montmartre’s 10 best tourist sites

The Arc de Triomphe

Excellent views of Paris will open up to you from the Arc de Triomphe. The Eiffel Tower looks like you can grab it with your hand. It’s 50m high, and you’ll have to go by foot. The cost of visiting the roof and the museum is 15 euros. Tickets can be found on this link.

Georges Pompidou Centre for Contemporary Art

The height of the centre of Pompidou is 45m. The cost of an entrance ticket to the exhibition is up to 14 euros, but you can visit just the roof for 5 euros. You can get up on foot, by elevator and on transparent escalators. It has great views of Notre Dame and Sacre Coeur.

On the top floor of the centre is the famous Georges Restaurant, which also has a magnificent view, but tables are best booked in advance.

Arab World Institute

This building offers the best view of Notre Dame de Paris, and  it’s completely free! It’s a great observation deck if you want to save money. The Parisians themselves often have dates in this beautiful place.

Address: 1 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernards, subway station: Jussieu.

» See more – Is There A Red Light District in Paris?

Lafayette and Printemps

The roofs of Lafayette and Printemps stores have a good opportunity for you to see the city from above. If you’re tired of shopping, climb to the top terraces. Here you’ll find magnificent views of the Eiffel Tower, the Opera House and the surrounding blocks. On the roof of the Printemps gallery you can have coffee in a small cafe or just sit on a bench and take a break. In Galleries Lafayette there are restaurants and self-service cafes on the top floor and an ice rink in winter.

Grand Arch Defence

The big arch in the business suburb of Defence is not just a huge monument. There is an exhibition gallery and café inside it, and on the roof there is a spacious observation deck overlooking the whole of Paris. The angle is interesting because the Champs-Elysées looks like it’s coming out from under you. You can see the whole famous boulevard from beginning to end.

The height of the building is 111 m. Ascent to the arch costs 14 euros. The tickets can be booked in advance here.

» READ MORE – When you saw everything: 20 things to do in Paris

Ballon de Paris

The balloon in the Citroën Park offers its passengers a wonderful view of Paris, the Eiffel Tower and the Seine, but only in good weather. The balloon rises by 150 m, with a flight time of 10 minutes. It costs 14 euros for adults and 7 euros for children. Excellent impressions are guaranteed! Book your tickets in advance here.

Metro station: Javel – André Citroën

Enjoy the views of Paris!