All Articles 10 best places for magical sunset views in Paris

10 best places for magical sunset views in Paris

A woman admiring the sunset over Eiffel Tower Paris
Image: Andreea Petruti / Unsplash
By Nur Sofia30 Mar 2022 6 minutes read

There’s a lot to love about Paris, from its brasseries and bistros to its iconic attractions and Parisian cityscapes. Whether you’re marveling at the grandiose Eiffel Tower or ambling along the Seine River, there are postcard-worthy views at every turn. Pair that with a majestic sunset, and you’ll be whipping out your cameras in a flash.

There are plenty of picturesque areas to watch the sunset in Paris. We’ve rounded up the best places to revel in the evening glow—whether it’s from high up or down below. Here are 10 of the most alluring sunset spots in Paris for epic photos and enchanting memories.

1. Top of Arc de Triomphe

View of Paris at sunset from Arc de Triomphe
Image: Harshad_apte / Tripadvisor

Sunset views have to be earned at Arc de Triomphe. Climb 284 steps and be rewarded with 360-degree panoramas (and a great leg workout) at the roof. But don't worry, there are elevators for young children and those with limited mobility.

According to locals, this is one of the best places to photograph the Eiffel Tower at golden hour. On a clear day, you might even spot the Champs-Élysées and Roue de Paris in the background. Selfie sticks and tripods are prohibited though—but with such an amazing view, who needs them anyway?

“Make it a point to go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe around sunset for unparalleled panoromic views of a stunning Parisien sunset. It's a bit of a climb to the top but the views are more than worth it. The all-round views of Paris and it's suburbs are just amazing. Buy tickets in advance, they're valid a visit through the day. Non-EU visitors have a €12 ticket, while EU citizens simply have to provide valid ID to get a ticket gratis.”—Harshad_apte

2. Along the Seine River

A sunset cruise on the Seine River in Paris
Image: Sonnevy O / Tripadvisor

The Seine’s riversides afford some breathtaking scenery. Set up a picnic at Île Saint-Louis, a popular hangout amongst locals, and enjoy a charcuterie platter with some rosé. Keep your eyes peeled—it’s an unbeatable spot to admire the clear, cotton candy skies as the sun sets behind the famed Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Alternatively, for a quintessentially French experience, hop on a glamorous Bateaux Parisiens dinner cruise. On the open-air deck, sip on champagne as you watch the Eiffel Tower, Pont-Neuf, and Musée d’Orsay illuminate in a fiery glow. Later, tuck into a multi-course feast while admiring the shimmering lights.

“So many great places to perch yourself and watch sunset in Paris and The Seine is no exception. Beautiful with all the boats and pedestrians in silhouette cruising by!”—misopiso S

3. Pont Alexandre III

View of the sunset from Pont Alexandre III in Paris
Image: Joanna A / Tripadvisor

Inaugurated in 1900, Pont Alexandre III is one of the most romantic places to catch the sunset in Paris. But be careful not to be an accidental photobomb—its Art Nouveau style, golden statues, and ornate details make it a popular spot for proposals and wedding photoshoots, especially at sunset. Spend time soaking in the river views and catch a glimpse of the Grand Palais and Petit Palais.

"I love a good bridge and this is the most wonderfully ornate bridge I’ve ever seen. There are amazing views from every angle. You can see the Invalides, Grand Palais, the Seine, and of course the Eiffel Tower. The views at sunset are particularly stunning. You can’t get a bad photo on this bridge."—Turner S

4. Esplanade du Trocadéro

View of the sunset against the Eiffel Tower from Esplanade du Trocadéro in Paris
Image: Lambretta101 / Tripadvisor

Loved for its uninterrupted views of the ‘Iron Lady’ and Parc du Champ de Mars, Esplanade du Trocadéro is one of the merriest places to catch the sunset. Grab a hot cocoa and head there before 6 p.m. to secure a good vantage point. Immerse in the lively ambiance and music performances while you eagerly anticipate the spectacular twilight views.

Keen on exploring the surrounding areas after sunset? Check out these nearby attractions: Cité de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée National de la Marine, Aquarium de Paris - CineAqua, and Fontaine du Trocadéro.

“This is a great spot at sunset and to see the Tower light up! It does not close and I have hung out here at all hours. Late night usually has few tourists. I found the area to be very safe.”—MichaelMc777

5. The Montparnasse Tower Panoramic Observation Deck

Sunset views from the top of The Montparnasse Tower in Paris
Image: michaelluu / Tripadvisor

The Montparnasse Tower is probably the highest spot in Paris to admire a sunset. Choose between the enclosed observation deck (56th floor) or the outdoor terrace (59th floor). And don’t worry about having to climb to the top; an elevator will whisk you up in 38 seconds.

See if you can spot the Louvre Museum, Montmartre, the Panthéon plus other famous attractions dominating the Parisian horizon. To make the most of your visit, bring a tripod to shoot a time-lapse from the open-air terrace—not something that many attractions allow. The monumental views and ethereal glow will take your breath away.

“It was a clear sunny day in Paris: perfect weather to head to the Montparnasse Tower and enjoy the view of Paris with the maximum clarity and visibility. We went there around 16h30 to enjoy the view around sunset time. We went to the 56th floor where you'll find Le Ciel de Paris restaurant and an indoor view to the Paris skyline. It's exceptional. You can also go the 59th floor where you'll find an outdoor section to see the view. Recommended to choose a sunny clear day to visit the observation deck. And also around 16h30 to enjoy daytime, golden hour, sunset, blue hour and also night time all under one visit!”—Rudy

6. Rooftop of Centre Pompidou

View of the sunset from rooftop of Centre Pompidou
Image: vickyinthebox / Tripadvisor

Centre Pompidou, in the Beaubourg neighborhood, provides stunning perspectives of Le Marais and beyond, especially at sunset. The building complex houses the fine dining restaurant Georges, the Bibliothèque publique d'information, and Europe’s largest museum for modern art, Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris. It’s best to buy skip-the-line tickets to avoid snaking queues.

Whether you’re swinging by for some classic French fare or admiring contemporary masterpieces, time your visit to coincide before sunset between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. The bubblegum skies and vibrant vistas are a true feast for the eyes.

“The best part are the views from the balconies on the top floors - it's a great place to watch the sunset over Paris and the Notre Dame. There's benches on the balconies to sit down and relax for a bit.”—FurryFroggy

7. Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre

View of sunset from Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre in Paris
Image: Alessandra Teisen Luz / Tripadvisor

The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur’s architecture and hilltop views inspire awe. Perched atop Montmartre, this Roman Catholic church sits on one of Paris’ highest peaks. If you make the 300-step climb to the top, get front-row seats to magnificent dusky views.

The best time to visit is an hour before sunset, when the sun is low enough to cast a gentle glow but still high enough for the rays to bounce off the golden dome. It gets crowded during sunset, so arrive early. You can also saunter along Rue de l'Abreuvoir for a leisurely sunset stroll.

“When you walk through the streets of Monmartre and climb the steps of the Basilique, you see a different Paris, and the views are stunning from that direction. We went late afternoon, but I would recommend early morning, or closer to sunset to either see it when Monmartre is quieter, or to see the magical lights appear as night arrives. So magical.”—dovehollow

8. Jardin des Tuileries

View of Eiffel Tower and Concorde Ferris Wheel at sunset from Jardin des Tuileries
Image: Don P / Tripadvisor

Formerly a 17th-century royal garden, the Jardin des Tuileries is now a well-manicured park framed by legendary sights. In one direction, you’ll see the Louvre Museum and in the other, Place de la Concorde. It’s also sandwiched between the Rue de Rivoli and the Seine River. No matter which way you turn, you'd be treated to characteristically Parisian architecture and verdant landscapes.

Witness the Concorde Ferris Wheel magically light up as the daylight fades. See a more intimate side of Paris, and capture impeccable photos at this popular public park.

“We decided to sit here overlooking Place de la Concorde with the Eiffel Tower on the horizon. Very relaxing during sunset...they do close the gates between 11 to midnight...so make sure you are out before hand.”—MeadowsValleyForge

9. Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace

A couple taking a selfie from the Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace at sunset in Paris
Image: Decouvrir Ensemble / Tripadvisor

Galeries Lafayette is not just a prestigious department store, it’s also home to a free rooftop terrace. Add this gem to your Paris itinerary—it opens daily from 9:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., weather permitting.

Expect phenomenal views, notably during sunset, when the city is bathed in a warm glow. Catch the action along the Boulevard Haussmann below, or spot the Eiffel Tower, Basilica of Sacré-Cœur and Palais Garnier further into the distance.

“Head for the Terrace above the 6th floor for a great view over the Opera Garnier at sunset. You don't have to go to the cafe, there is a lot of open space for views. If you turn toward the garden wall plantings,away from the Opera, there is a small space that perfectly frames the view of the Sacre Coeur church on Montmartre.”—Rosenbeans

10. Rooftop of Printemps

View of sunset from rooftop of Printemps in Paris
Image: nathetfab / Tripadvisor

Head to Printemps Department Store and take the elevator up to the rooftop deck—a free sunset viewing spot in Paris that's great for the budget-conscious.

The dusky hours from up here are equally captivating. Watch the sun go behind Montmartre, the Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe, without having to jostle with hordes of tourists and bulky camera gear. Order some snacks and drinks from the brasserie to refuel, while waiting to nail that perfect sunset silhouette shot.

“They might have been better than those seen from the Eiffel Tower or Arc de Triomphe. My husband and I decided to go there when the kids were having some down time and we went up to the cafe on the 9th floor of the homegoods store and bought two bottles of wine for 12 Euro, two wine glasses and watched the sites and the sunset. Totally worth the multitute of escalators needed to get to the top!”—Susan B

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Nur Sofia
Nur Sofia majored in International Trade, but found her calling in storytelling. She is passionate about travel and lifestyle, and still dreams of visiting Bora Bora someday. When she's not planning her next trip, you'll likely find her predicting the next blindside on Survivor.