The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable icons of Paris (and probably of France), so it’s no wonder you want the best shot with the Iron Lady. Luckily, you have plenty of options when it comes to finding a place to take photos of the Eiffel Tower.
Up close, far away, surrounded by nature or architecture: the possibilities are almost endless, and so are the locations. Here are my five favorites.
1. Trocadéro
The Trocadéro is one of the most popular places to take photos in front of the Eiffel Tower. It has sweeping views of the city and plenty of spots to pose, and if you turn around, the buildings of the Trocadéro have a lot of bold architecture too.
I recommend getting there as early as possible (sunrise!) to avoid the crowds and get the best light.
Update 2025: parts of the Trocadéro are temporarily closed for a major renovation. I keep checking on this location to see what’s possible, so get in touch to find out what we can do for your shoot.
2. Champ de Mars
On the opposite side of the Eiffel Tower are the sprawling lawns and gardens of the Champ de Mars. I prefer this location to all the others in spring, when the grass is green and the flowers are blooming. It also has several hidden pockets that make the perfect place for a surprise proposal with a view of the Eiffel Tower.
Like the Trocadéro, it’s important to get here as early as possible to avoid the crowds. Some years the grass dries out completely by the end of summer, and then any of the other four locations on this list is a more photogenic option.
3. Bir Hakeim Bridge
The bridge from Inception carries a metro line above the Seine. The bridge itself is stunning, and there’s a small lookout point with the Eiffel Tower in the distance.
Once again, I recommend coming early in the morning. It’s a popular spot for prewedding photos (also called engagement sessions), fashion shoots and joggers!
4. The Banks of the Seine
I love this location for its privacy and the dramatic view of the Eiffel Tower across the river. There’s a little area between the houseboats that’s perfect for a surprise proposal, followed by some champagne.
5. Hotel and Apartment Rooftops
Paris is a fairly low city, so if a building has a rooftop terrace, it probably has a view of the Eiffel Tower. Some famous hotels with one are the Plaza Athénée, the Pullman, the Raphael, the Peninsula, the Shangri-La and the San Régis.
Planning a proposal at one of these spots? Have a look at my Paris proposal photography sessions, or see my favorite places for a Paris engagement session.
