The Eiffel Tower plays hide-and-seek across Paris, surprising you around corners and framing itself in countless windows. But after sunset, she truly steals the show. Every evening, thousands of lights transform this iron giant into a dazzling beacon that commands the Parisian night sky.
While lounging on the Champ de Mars lawns is undeniably magical (and yes, you should definitely do it at least once), there are so many other spectacular spots to take in the view. Whether you're chasing that perfect Instagram shot or seeking a romantic spot for a proposal, here are our favorite spots for experiencing the Tower's nighttime sparkle.
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Best views of Eiffel Tower at night
1. Champs de Mars
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Let's start with the classic. Fun fact: this park was a training ground for military cadets in the 1700s. Now? It's where Parisians come to picnic and tourists come to dream. Grab some cheese from the nearby Rue Cler market, spread out a blanket, and watch the Tower dazzle. Walk to the far end of the park for those full-frame photos without anyone's selfie stick in your shot!
2. Trocadéro esplanade
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The Trocadéro esplanade will give you the most iconic views of the Eiffel Tower from its elevated position across the Seine. This free public space in the 16th arrondissement has elegant fountains, manicured lawns, and romantic walking paths that lead toward the Tower. The view is worth braving the crowds though, especially when the fountains are running.
3. Montparnasse Tower
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This is another great and underrated spot. It’s a bit far from the Eiffel Tower, but you’ll get a spectacular panorama of the illuminated tower against the city lights from its 56th-floor observation deck. The glass-walled deck and open-air terrace provide perfect photo opportunities. Stop by the rooftop café for a drink while watching Paris transform at dusk.
4. Pont de Bir Hakeim
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Remember that scene in Inception where everything starts folding in on itself? That was filmed right here. This two-level bridge from 1905 is a photographer's dream – the metro rumbles overhead while you get that perfect shot of the Tower through its iron arches. Come here just before sunset, when the light hits the Seine just right, and the first boats start turning on their lights.
5. Port Debilly
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Here's a local secret: this quiet riverside spot is where Parisians come to escape the crowds. It's just a stone's throw from Trocadéro, but somehow, tourists haven't caught on yet. You’ll love sitting on the steps here with a coffee, watching the boats go by. For the steadiest night shots, rest your phone on the iron railings. And if you walk under the Pont d'Iéna bridge, you'll find an angle that makes the Tower look like it's floating on the Seine.
6. Bateaux Parisiens
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Yes, it's touristy. And yes, it's worth it. These boat cruises time their routes perfectly, so you catch the Tower's sparkle show while gliding right underneath it. Book the 9pm sailing in summer or the 7pm in winter – you'll get the sunset, blue hour, and full darkness all in one trip. The best seats? Right side of the boat, outdoor deck.
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7. Les Ombres
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Sitting atop the Quai Branly Museum, Les Ombres ("The Shadows") is a go-to for special occasions. By day, the Tower casts shadows through its metallic lace onto the tables. By night, its golden glow illuminates the glass-roofed dining room, while the ceiling transforms into a starry sky every hour. The exceptional French cuisine matches the magical ambiance, making it perfect for romantic evenings.
8. Cité de l’architecture et du patrimoine
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Want to dodge the Trocadéro crowds but keep the killer view? Head to this architecture museum. Most tourists don't know about it, but it has some of the best tower-watching spots in Paris. Buy a coffee from the café and snag a window seat or head to the second-floor library. You'll get the same view as outside. Plus, you can actually learn something about why Paris looks the way it does.
9. Perruche
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After shopping at Printemps, head up to their rooftop restaurant. From here, you can play "spot the landmark" – there's the Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and those gorgeous Haussmann buildings that make Paris, well, Paris. The Mediterranean food is worth splurging on too.
10. Girafe Restaurant
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If you're going to spend one fancy dinner in Paris, make it Girafe. This Art Deco beauty used to be part of the Natural History Museum (hence the name), and now it's where the beautiful people come to see and be seen. Pro tip: specifically ask for a terrace table when booking, or you might end up with a great meal but no view. And yes, you'll want to dress up for this one.
11. 20 Eiffel, Rue de Monttessuy
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Here's a spot that won't empty your wallet but still delivers that "I'm in Paris!" feeling. This cozy bistro is literally around the corner from the Tower, and it's stayed under the tourist radar. The three-course menu is actually affordable (rare in this neighborhood), and the escargot is some of the best you’ll have in Paris. The best part? They actually take walk-ins, even during the dinner rush. Grab an outdoor table and watch the Tower do its sparkly dance while you eat.
12. Top of Arc de Triompe
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Let's end with a classic. Yes, it's 284 steps up, but trust me – the view is worth every sweaty step. From up here, you get the whole show: the Tower glowing in the distance, the Champs-Élysées stretching out like a river of lights, and the entire city spread out before you. Napoleon built this arch to celebrate his victories, but I think the real victory is catching the sunset from up here. Buy your tickets online to skip the queue, and time your visit for about 30 minutes before sunset.
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