Top 10 Photo Spots in Paris — And How to Make the Most of Each One

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Paris is one of the most photographed cities in the world — and for good reason. Almost every corner offers something beautiful, from grand monuments to quiet cobblestone side streets to flower-filled café terraces. Whether you're a photographer or just want some great travel photos to remember the trip by, these are the 10 spots I'd point you to first.

One of my biggest tips before you start: bring props. My favorite in Paris is flowers — they're available from street vendors everywhere, they're cheap, and they just work in this city. Baguettes and croissants from any boulangerie are another easy, perfectly Parisian option. And if you want to lean into the classic Paris aesthetic, French berets can be found at most street stands for just a couple of euros.

For the best light at any of these outdoor locations, aim for early morning (before the crowds arrive) or golden hour in the late afternoon.

Explore the slideshow below to see my shots from my last trip — or scroll down to read the full list of locations.

1. The Eiffel Tower — The obvious starting point, and still worth it every time. For the best angle without fighting crowds, head to the Champ de Mars lawn or cross to the Trocadéro esplanade for a straight-on view. Professional photographers usually start here right as the sun comes up for the perfect shot! At night, the tower sparkles on the hour — a short but magical light show that's worth staying up for.

2. The Louvre — The glass pyramid in the main courtyard is the classic shot, but the surrounding architecture and the Tuileries Garden just beyond the museum are equally beautiful. Go early — it's one of the busiest spots in the city.

3. Pont Alexandre III — The most ornate bridge in Paris, with gilded lamps, sculpted cherubs, and the Seine as your backdrop. It's a short walk from the Eiffel Tower and consistently one of the most stunning spots in the city.

4. Notre-Dame Cathedral — Currently undergoing restoration after the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame reopened in December 2024 and is more stunning than ever. The square in front and the views from the nearby bridges over the Seine are both excellent.

5. Aux Vieux Café — One of Paris's oldest cafés and a photogenic gem in Spring with all its flowers — the kind of classic Parisian storefront with a painted sign and flower boxes that feels like stepping into a postcard. Order a coffee and linger.

6. Moulin Rouge — The iconic red windmill in Montmartre is best photographed in the evening when the neon signs are lit. The surrounding streets of Pigalle are lively and worth exploring while you're there.

7. Petit Palais — A beautiful Beaux-Arts building near the Grand Palais that many visitors walk right past. The ornate facade and the lovely garden inside (free to enter) make it one of the more underrated photo spots in the city.

8. Sacré-Cœur — The white domed basilica at the top of Montmartre is both a great subject to photograph and a great vantage point to photograph from — the views over Paris from the steps are some of the best in the city. Allow time to explore the charming streets of Montmartre while you're up there.

9. Any Parisian Café (like Eau Claire) — A café terrace with a glass of wine or a café au lait is one of the most quintessentially Parisian photos you can take. Café Eau Claire is a particularly pretty option, but honestly any café with outdoor seating and good light will do.

10. Any Boulangerie — Step inside a classic French bakery, grab a croissant or a baguette, and you have an instant photo. The storefronts themselves — tiled floors, glass cases, handwritten chalkboard menus — are often as beautiful as the pastries inside.

Ready to Plan Your Paris Trip?

Paris rewards slow travel and the willingness to wander off the main streets. As a certified travel advisor, I'd love to help you build an itinerary that goes beyond the tourist trail. Reach out here and let's plan it together.