The best lesser-known Eiffel Tower photo spots, according to a former tour guide
In London, there's Big Ben, in Chicago, the Bean's the thing and in Paris, without a doubt, there is the iconic wrought-iron beauty: the Eiffel Tower. Indeed, the French iron giant is synonymous with the city itself, a historic and architectural landmark that draws millions of tourists every year. For those heading to the City of Lights soon, you'll likely want to make the pilgrimage to the iconic site – and, as it is the 21st century, after all – have some sort of photographic evidence, ready for Instagram upload. We've rounded up our favourite, lesser-known addresses to go for the best shots, from a Michelin-starred barge to a small side street away from the camera-wielding masses.
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mauritius images GmbH / Alamy Stock Photo1/7Quai Jaques Chirac / Pont d'Iena, 75007
Looming over the Left Bank end of the Pont d'Iena is the Eiffel Tower in all her iron glory. Whilst the bridge definitely can become jammed with both cars and tourists, this spot is one of the best to have an unobstructed view of the tower (just mind the beeping Citroëns). We'd recommend heading there in the early hours of the morning for the best chances for an uninterrupted photo shoot.
JEROME LABOUYRIE / Alamy Stock Photo2/73 Square Rapp, 75007
Down a small alleyway off of Avenue Rapp is a tiny, dead-end courtyard with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. Whilst you are likely to find at least one other person taking a photo or two of the landmark, the square itself is a rather private, residential area, so do take care to be respectful whilst here. After your photoshoot is complete, I'd recommend heading down the small stone staircase at the end of the Square to take a peek at one of the most beautiful private gardens in Paris. Tranquility at its finest.
UlyssePixel / Alamy Stock Photo3/74 avenue de Camoens, 75116
Just a stone's throw from the Trocadéro is this quiet, raised street overlooking the Eiffel Tower. You've likely seen an influencer or two have a million-like photoshoot on your Instagram feed; now, you can make like your favourite follow and do the same. I'd advise arriving early in the morning to have ample solo time in front of the tower.
photograph.noted / Stockimo / Alamy Stock Photo4/7225 rue de l'Université, 75007
At the tail end of the very long rue de l'Université, which spans the length of the 7e arrondissement is perhaps one of the best locations to see – and photograph – the Eiffel Tower. Head here in the evening after sunset, as you'll be up close and personal with the bright sparkles of the glittering tower.
Louise Heusinkveld / Alamy Stock Photo5/754 rue St Dominique, 75007
As you arrive at the Au Canon des Invalides brasserie, do look up: it is from their terrace where you'll find one of the most quintessentially Parisian views of the Eiffel Tower. While the brasserie itself is nothing to write home about, I'd recommend enjoying an espresso or soda en terrasse to get a postcard perfect photo.
Instagram/@plaza_athenee6/725 Avenue Montaigne, 75008
It is on the flower-festooned balcony of one of the chic suites at the five-star Hôtel Plaza Athénée where you're guaranteed some of the best – if not the best – Eiffel Tower photo opps in the city. Of course, it is no secret that a night's stay at the hotel is rather pricey (rooms are typically over £1,000 per night); however, if you're up for a splurge, a candlelit dinner or croissant-heavy brunch on the balcony of your suite overlooking the Eiffel Tower is glorious both on and off camera.
Instagram/@ducassesurseine7/719 Port Debilly, 75116
Gourmands and advocates of the “Phone eats first” movement alike will relish an opportunity to board the sleek Ducasse sur Seine boat, a Michelin-starred dining experience helmed by the legendary French chef Alain Ducasse. Cruises leave from Port Debilly (an excellent spot for Eiffel Tower photo-taking in its own right) and loop the length of the Seine as you and your guests work your way through a beautiful, multi-course meal. Lunch and dinner cruise opportunities are available; however, for those keen on getting a photo or two with the Eiffel Tower, take the dinner boat ride, which finishes back where it started in front of the tower, all aglow and glittering against the night sky of Paris.
