Have you ever dreamed of taking the *perfect* Parisian picture just like your favourite Influencer? Or wondered where is the best Eiffel Tower photo spots are located? Or simply wanted to take a capture a nice moment on your next trip Paris?
In this guide you’ll find the best Instagrammable places in Paris for those not-so-candidly-candids. As well as sharing photography tips and tricks to get the perfect shot, I’ll also share some hidden gems that are off the beaten path as well as the most Instagrammable restaurants in Paris and the most beautiful hotels. I’ve also included an up to date Google Map with the exact locations of all these Paris photo spots.
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L'Howea
Rue de Rivoli, 75001
View of the Eiffel Tower? Check! That typical Haussmann style architecture that defines Paris? Check! An aesthetic bunch of flowers from the flower shop across the street? Nailed it.
This is one of my favourite photo spots in Paris because it’s just SO Parisian.
Tip: Unfortunately there is an eye-sore of a stop sign directly next to the flower shop however with a good angle you can cover it (in the above photo it’s hidden by my big head).
TrocadƩro
Place du TrocadƩro, 75016
Youāve seen this pose a million times before on your Instagram newsfeed. Itās almost a tourist right of passage when visiting Paris.Ā
There are hundreds of spots to take a selfie with the Eiffel Tower but if you head to the TrocadĆ©roĀ for sunrise you will be rewarded. At this time in the AM there is hardly anyone around (unless you donāt count the token couple doing their newly engaged photoshoot with a bouquet of balloons).Ā
Avenue de Camoens
75116 Paris
This charming little street has the most perfect Parisian backdrop with a view of the Eiffel Tower. Even more so in Autumn when the trees turn a vivid auburn colour. Once a secret smoking spot for local teenagers, this street has now gained popularity online so Iād suggest arriving on a weekend morning when most locals are still asleep.
Port Debilly
3 Port Debilly, 75016
Could this photoĀ BE any more Parisian? Extra points if you use a baguette as a photo prop. This view of the Eiffel Tower can be reached from Port Devilly. We had the place to ourselves for ages (unlike other Instagrammable places in ParisĀ and itās such a lovely view of the Eiffel Tower ā just watch out for the bird poop!
Recommended: Book a river cruise to get an up-close shot of the Eiffel Tower as you float by on the Seine river.
Rue de lāUniversitĆ©
225 Rue de l'UniversitƩ, 75007
The perfect Parisian street with a view of the iron lady. This street can get extremely busy with people trying to snap a pic so I recommend coming here early to catch the golden light. If you want to prioritise one location to get up at the crack of dawn for then I would definitely recommend this one.Ā
Jardin de la Tour Eiffel
Rue du MarƩchal Harispe, 75007
ClickĀ hereĀ for the specific location of where I took the above photo. Anyone whoās been to the Champ de Mars in Spring/Summer/Autumn knows that itās impossible to get a shot of the Eiffel Tower without sharing your photo with hundreds of picnic grazing tourists.
However, on my most recent Paris trip, we found a wee footpath where you can get an uninterrupted selfie with the Eiffel Tower.
Paris Photography Tours
If you’re travelling solo to Paris or want someone to take epic photos of you & your partner/family, consider booking a professional photographer, with prices from Ā£20 per session.Ā You will receive a range of professionally edited photos at various locations near the Eiffel Tower and memories that will last a lifetime.
Louvre
Rue de Rivoli, 75001
Ah, the Louvre. The perfect contrast of the modern abstract pyramid structures surrounded by iconic 19th-century architecture. This location is a no-brainer really. I often get asked how I got my photo here without any people in the background. We took this photo at 8 am in October ā just as the sun had finished rising. There were a few people dotted about, so we circled around the pyramids into we found an angle that was tourist-less.
Tip: The Louvre is actually closed on Tuesdays which makes it a perfect time to visit to get your Insta fix.
Arc de Triomphe
Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008
How do you get a good/mostly empty photo with the Arc de Triomphe? Nope, you donāt need to get here at the crack of dawn. The secret is? Walk to the bloody other side. There was a massive queue of tourists on the opposite side, each lining up to get the perfect snap, dodging traffic in the process. And I aināt about to risk my life for a pic, sis. ā£
Unless you want a perfectly symmetrical photo a la Wes Anderson, talk a walk around and youāll find plenty of spots where you wonāt have to wait to get your photo ā which means more time for more wine! ā£
Moulin Rouge
82 Bd de Clichy, 75018
The Moulin Rouge during the day seems oddly peaceful. Though if you want to get a shot without any cars youāll have to be patient ā just head to the traffic island in the middle of Boulevard de Clichy for a safe spot to take pics.
Pont Alexandre III
Pont Alexandre III, 75008
This 19th-century Art Nouveau-style bridge on the river Seine is the perfect spot for an impromptu photo shoot worthy of the pages of Vogue. The above photo was taken on an iPhone, so if youāve got no gear and no idea, simply rock up to this ornate bridge for a guaranteed chic pic.
Palace of Versailles
Place d'Armes, 78000
Technically outside of Paris, however, theĀ Palace of VersaillesĀ is definitely worth a visit for its unparalleled beauty and French Baroque architecture. Not to mention the famousĀ Hall of MirrorsĀ which is something you really have to experience in person. The trip itself is doable in half a day and a lot cheaper than I originally expected. You need to catch the RER line C5 train which costs ā¬8 for a return trip from central Paris, followed by a 5-minute stroll to get in.
Entry is FREE every first Sunday from November to March. Otherwise, I recommend getting aĀ Full Access TicketĀ which includes access to the whole estate and guaranteed entry time so you can avoid spending hours in the queue outside.
The Bouquinistes of Paris
along the banks of the Seine
The only bookstore in the world that is separated by a river! The banks of the Seine river are dotted with green metal stands selling second-hand books, comics and prints. The stalls first appear in the 16th century and are not only a great spot for photos but also for finding rare antique books.
Le CafƩ Marly
93 Rue de Rivoli, 75001
Probably the most expensive Caffe latte youāll ever drink during your time on this planet, however, I would argue that itās worth it for the view of the Louvre.Ā Le CafĆ© MarlyĀ may get a bad rep for its overpriced pastries and arrogant staff, however, I find a ābonjourāĀ and a smile goes a long way with the waiters and theyāll honestly leave you to it. Itās the perfect spot to people-watch and get a few snaps while youāre at it.
Au Vieux Paris dāArcole
24 Rue Chanoinesse, 75004
One of the oldest restaurants in Paris, right near the Notre Dame. If you visit in Spring the facade will be covered in a beautiful spray of wisteria. It can be extremely busy when itās open so the best time to take a snap is when itās closed ā anytime before 11 am every day or between 3-6 pm on weekdays.
Carette
25 Pl. des Vosges, 75003
With three locations across Paris, you can’t miss a visit to Carette – a gorgeous tearoom which serves one of the best hot chocolates in Paris. With French bistro-style chairs and aesthetically pleasing cakes, macarons and pastries galore, this is the perfect Parisian backdrop for your photos.
Perruche
2 Rue du Havre 9ĆØme Ć©tage, 7500
This stunning rooftop restaurant in the 21st arrondissement will make you think youāre at a beach club on the French Rivera if it wasnāt for the iconic views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. Sprawled across a spacious 500m2, Perruche is an oasis of lush gardens, sofas to sprawl on, outdoor dining on the terrace as well as as a stylish indoor restaurant. Make sure to make a reservation at Perruche to avoid missing out.
Best Cameras for Travel Photos
Want to level up your travel photos? You don’t need to be a professional photographer in order to take amazing photos. I’ve put together a guide on my recommended camera equipment including smartphone accessories, as well as some editing tips & tricks.
Terrasse de l'Alcazar
62 Rue Mazarine, 75006
Located near the Notre Dame, this chic restaurant features stunning interiors and cuisine to match. With a massive skylight, this eatery provides optimal natural lighting throughout the day, perfect for snapping photos. In the evenings, Terrasse de l’Alcazar truly comes alive with performances from drag queens.
Pink Mamma
20bis Rue de Douai, 75009
Arguably one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Paris. Italian food in Paris? Oui Oui! This magenta restaurant situated over 4 floors in the Pigalle neighbourhood of Paris. Pink Mamma do the best Italian food and every floor is an Instagram heaven ā make sure to check out the rooftop!
TIP: make a booking for 12pm when the restaurants opens for lunch service. Queue 15 minutes early for a higher chance of being seated on the top floor.
Le Comptoir GƩnƩral
84 Quai de Jemmapes, 75010
Hands down one of the coolest spots Iāve been to and the ONLY place in Paris you can order a Caribbean-style punch bowl straight from a bar built inside a pirate ship. Yes, really!
The interiors of Le Comptoir GƩnƩral look like they belong on a Disney movie set. Head here on a Friday night for their reggae dance floor and return on Sunday for their Franco-African style brunch.
Angelina
226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001
This historic tea room is known for its delectable pastries and hands down the best hot chocolate Iāve tasted in Paris. As you step through its doors at Angelina, the Belle Ćpoque elegance of the building captivates, adorned with gilded mouldings and the kind of ornate decor that transports you to a bygone era. They serve a banging brunch here too!
Le Consulat
18 Rue Norvins, 75018 Paris
You can find this French cafe in the cobblestone streets of Montmartre. Get here before it opens at 11 am to get a shot sans people and stay for a crĆŖpe.
CafƩ de Flore
172 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006
This iconic cafe was famous long before it featured in Emily in Paris due to its plant-covered exterior and overpriced (and let’s be honest, basic) menu. To beat the crowds at CafĆ© de Flore,Ā make a booking for 7.30 am on Sunday when this coffeehouse opens and most Parisians are hungover. Or alternatively at 10.30 am on a weekday when the morning rush is over and most locals are at their laptops for the work day.
While I really can’t recommend the service or quality of food, it’s okay just not great. This spot is still worth going to purely to people-watch. I spotted multiple Birkin bags and their fabulous owners during our visit.
La Maison Rose
2 Rue de l'Abreuvoir, 75018
A charming little restaurant in Montmartre with a not-so-charming owner. This location is straight out of a fairytale but please heed my warning: photograph this place just before it opens at 12 pm, as the owner is very aggressive towards photographers (Iāve previously talked about my experience here).
I mean I get it, I totally understand when your customers are dining, you donāt want dozens of invasive lenses pointing in their direction. Even though I considerately arrived here at 11 am to quickly take a photo of the exterior before the outside tables & chairs had even been set, I was still yelled at. There are plenty of other restaurants in Paris anyway.Ā
LadurƩe
75 Av. des Champs-ĆlysĆ©es, 75008
A photography location that doubles-up as a snack stop is a big yes from me! This particular shop is extremely elegant with stunning decorations that represent the French Art de Vivre
La Fontaine de Mars
129 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007
This traditional brasserie near the Eiffel Tower specialises in hearty dishes like foie gras, duck confit, and steak frites. La Fontaine de Mars has
has a large bistro style outdoor terrace, which is perfect for people-watching while sipping a glass of red. Make sure to leave room for dessert and order their chocolate mousse!Ā
Le Rooftop: The Peninsula
19 Av. KlƩber, 75116
Perched atop the luxury 5-star The Peninsula Hotel, this rooftop bar offers a panoramic view across Paris, with the Eiffel Tower front and centre (main character energy). Note: A minimum spend of 60ā¬ per person is required to guarantee access to Le Rooftop. With 32ā¬ signature cocktails on the menu, this bar is definitely on the pricier side – Iād only recommend going for a special occasion!
ANDIA
19 Chau. de la Muette, 75016
This popular restaurant is located west in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, just a 15 minute metro ride from the Eiffel Tower. If youāre after some delicious Latin American cuisine, good vibes, and beautiful photo-worthy interiors then the trip to ANDIA is well worth it. Also on Sundays, they do an all-you-can-eat brunch.
Galerie Vivienne
8 Rue Vivienne, 75002
Outside of Galerie Vivienne (a beautiful shopping centre located north of the Louvre) you will find an aesthetically pleasing shop window filled with books. Most people will walk past it however it’s definitely Instagram-worthy if you love neutral backgrounds for your photos. Head to 8 Rue Vivienne for the exact location but make sure to check out Librairie Jousseaume while you’re in the atea.
Rue CrƩmieux
75012 Paris
Fashion bloggers eat your heart out. This rainbow street is filled with dozens of charming pastel-coloured houses. You could potentially bring several outfits to this location and photograph multiple looks. Be mindful, as some houses have āno photographyā signs ā please be quiet as this is a residential street. Please don’t leave any trash behind either.
Montmarte Photobooth
53 Rue des Trois FrĆØres, 75018
Tucked away in the hills of Montmarte there is a vintage green photo booth. While you can’t get your passport photos done here, you can get those undeniably cool black & white photo prints for 3ā¬. The retro signage outside makes this the perfect photo opp too.
HĆ“tel-Dieu de Paris
1 place du Parvis de, 75004
At the next block over you will find the oldest hospital in Paris,Ā HĆ“telāDieu.Ā Inside there is a beautiful courtyard. I did get a few weird looks from security when taking these pictures but rest-assured entry is free and itās a beautiful building with lots of 7th-century architecture to marvel at. Be aware: itās closed on weekends.
National Archives Museum
60 Rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003
Located in the Marais district, this museum includes some of France’s most important historical documents and artefacts. Entry is free and I recommend bringing your camera to take photos in the Versailles-reminiscent rooms.
Jardin du Palais Royal
43 Rue de Valois, 75001
Just near the Louvre, in the middle of Paris is this littleĀ āvillage in the cityā that includes a beautiful garden and the Insta-famous contemporary sculpture āLes Deux Plateauxā by Daniel Buren. Here you will also find the trendy CafĆ© KitsunĆ© where you can get an amazing flat white.
The GrandĀ MosqueĀ ofĀ Paris
2bis Pl. du Puits de l'Ermite, 75005
Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, this mosque is a hidden gem! As you step into its courtyard, youāll find intricate tilework and stunning architecture as well a peaceful garden, adorned with fountains and vibrant flora.Ā
Wisteria blooms here during April, but I recommend visiting any time of year and grabbing a mint tea from the the mosque’s cafĆ©. It costs 3ā¬ to enter and is open every day except Friday and Muslim holidays.
BNF Richelieu Site
5 Rue Vivienne, 75002
The BNF Richelieu Site, part of the National Library of France, is a captivating blend of historical grandeur and modern design. The grand oval reading room, bathed in natural light and adorned with ornate bookshelves, is a haven for bibliophiles and photographers alike. Access to the reading room is free however there are various ticketed exhibitions on site as well that are also worth checking out.
Medici Fountain
Rue de MĆ©dicis, 75006
Nestled within the enchanting Luxembourg Gardens, the Medici Fountain is a picture-perfect oasis. Visit in the mornings and youāll practically have this idyllic fountain all to yourself, bar a few passing morning joggers. Later in the day this spot gets busy with Parisian locals enjoying their lunch break, especially in Summer!
La Maison Favart
5 Rue de Marivaux, 75002
La Maison FavartĀ is one of the oldest hotels in Paris, dating all the way back to 1824. Itās full of fascinating history and a whimsical romance story, with an invitingly warm and intimate atmosphere. The hotel offers 39 lavish rooms which are beautifully decorated with 18th-century Parisian textiles and finishes, fit for an Insta-Queen.Ā
HĆ“tel Marignan
12 Rue de Marignan, 75008
This luxury 5-star hotel has one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, located in the 8th arrondissement on the Champs Elysees. The Marignan Eiffel Suite boasts a huge 77 square metres of private room & terrace. However, all guests of the hotel can enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower from their rooftop restaurant in the summertime.
Hotel Marignan is within a 15-minute walk from iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Arc de Triomphe, plenty of iconic shopping boutiques restaurants, bars & cafes, and a 2-minute walk to the nearest metro station. I highly recommend this location for first-timers to Paris as itās incredibly easy to get around.
HƓtel Plaza AthƩnƩe
25 Av. Montaigne, 75008
If you can afford to stay at the iconic HĆ“tel Plaza AthĆ©nĆ©e, then lucky you! But if youāre like me, a mere peasant, then you can simply rock up to the front of this fancy af hotel and start snapping away. Bonus points if you wear red to match the geraniums.
HĆ“tel des Grands Boulevards
17 Bd PoissonniĆØre, 75002
Every aspect of the rooms atĀ Hotel des Grands BoulevardsĀ are designed and considered down to the very last detail ā room key and all. On my previous trip to Paris, we stayed in their Junior Suite which featured one of the MOST Instagrammable pink bathrooms I have ever laid my eyes on. If you love boutique hotels, lively atmosphere and rooftop bars.
Hyatt Paris Madeleine
17 Bd PoissonniĆØre, 75002
Located near the Opera Garnier and the Champs-ElysĆ©es,Ā Hyatt Paris MadeleineĀ screams Parisian luxury with its opulent interiors and word class service. Thereās 85 rooms with a few of the suites offering jaw dropping Eiffel Tower views and pretty Parisian streets – perfect for a photo moment!
Paris Travel Guide 2024
Want more recommendations? Ever wondered when is the best time to visit Paris? Read my 2024 guide to Paris with plenty of restaurant, museum, activity and hotel recommendations.
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