Paris From Above: Eiffel Tower vs. Tour Montparnasse

Still debating Paris’s best view? Let’s settle Eiffel Tower vs. Tour Montparnasse!

Published: March 13, 2026
Eiffel Tower at Sunset

Paris Viewpoints: Eiffel Tower vs. Tour Montparnasse for Your Paris Adventure 

Paris has no shortage of jaw-dropping sights, but nothing says ‘you’re in Paris’ like gazing over the city’s rooftops from above. Two towers—Eiffel Tower and Tour Montparnasse—promise front-row seats to it all, but how do you choose where to go first? We’re here to help, with all the essential facts, fun details, tasty local tips, and a little friendly competition between Paris’s two sky-high stars. Get ready to plan your perfect day above Paris! 

The Lowdown 

Eiffel Tower: 

  • Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair—now the world’s most recognized structure 
  • Three platforms with panoramic views, restaurants, gift shops, and a glass floor 
  • Height: 330m/1,083ft (including antennas) 
  • Nighttime light shows every hour after sunset 
  • Crowds expected, so early morning or evening visits are quieter 
  • Iconic silhouette visible from all over Paris 

Tour Montparnasse: 

  • Sleek, modern tower built in 1973; Paris’s highest rooftop terrace 
  • 59th-floor panoramic deck with champagne bar, comfy seating, and interactive displays 
  • Height: 210m/689ft 
  • Offers picture-perfect views of the Eiffel Tower and all of central Paris 
  • Typically shorter queues and more relaxed atmosphere 
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows for city-wide snapshots 

Sounds good, tell me more...

Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower from Below

No trip to Paris feels truly done without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Not only does it offer incredible 360-degree views of the city, but the whole experience feels delightfully Parisian: beret-clad street artists, the gentle hum of the Seine, couples picnicking on Champ de Mars below. You’ll find three viewing platforms; the first has playful glass floors and immersive exhibits, while the second is the sweet spot for those classic skyline shots (and fewer crowds). Adventurous souls can take the lift or climb the 674 steps, and at the very top, the observation deck lets you spot everything from Sacré-Cœur to Notre-Dame. 

There’s no rush to come back down, either—pause for a coffee or treat at 58 Tour Eiffel, or book a reservation at the iconic Le Jules Verne for serious French cuisine. All the while, the ever-changing light reflecting off Paris’s rooftops below makes the experience unforgettable. And don’t forget the magic of seeing the tower sparkle at night. 

Tour Montparnasse

View from Tour Montparnasse

While the Montparnasse Tower’s dark glass exterior is often outshone by its famous rival, this tower quietly offers one of Paris’s best kept secrets: it’s the only place you’ll get that view of the Eiffel Tower, right in the gleaming center of the cityscape. Zip 56 floors up in a matter of seconds, and step into a relaxed, modern lounge with cozy beanbags, digital telescopes, and a glass-walled rooftop terrace that feels uncrowded even at sunset. 

The viewing deck is surprisingly family-friendly, with interactive displays to help you pick out Paris’s most famous sights, and even a champagne bar for celebratory toasts with a side of cityscape. On clear days, you’ll spot well beyond central Paris, taking in the full sweep of the Seine, Montmartre, and distant hills. And with its central location in Montparnasse’s lively quarter, you’ll have instant access to shops, cafes, and theaters once back on solid ground. 

Okay, so which one is most impressive? 

Both towers are showstoppers, but in their own unique ways. The Eiffel Tower wows with historic charm—climbing it feels like starring in your own Parisian movie. The intricate ironwork, the buzz of excitement among fellow visitors, and the thrill of being on an international bucket list attraction are hard to top. 

Montparnasse Tower, on the other hand, impresses with its peaceful vibe and the chance to gaze back at the Eiffel Tower itself. The 360-degree terrace creates a sleek, contemporary counterpoint, letting you see the old and new Paris in one sweeping glance. Plus, you get to capture the Eiffel Tower in all your photos—a must for any Paris album! 

Which one is more fun? 

The Eiffel Tower comes with a real sense of adventure—climbing the stairs, peering through the glass floor, and spotting famous landmarks feels like a giant Parisian treasure hunt. Street performers, crepe stalls, and the ever-popular sparkle show mean there’s never a dull moment. 

Tour Montparnasse brings the fun in a different way—think rocket-fast elevators, space-age telescopes, and playful selfie props on the open terrace. The laid-back lounge upstairs makes it ideal for group chats and relaxing with a drink, especially after a day of exploring. 

Which is more beautiful? 

Beauty is everywhere in Paris, but the Eiffel Tower has that intricate, lace-like ironwork and golden after-dark glow that makes it a world-famous symbol. Stand at the tower’s foot or gaze up through the spiral of girders and it’s easy to see why it’s a masterpiece of engineering and design. 

Montparnasse Tower wins beauty points for the view it delivers—especially at sunset or blue hour, when the Eiffel Tower glows against the city lights. The rooftop deck offers sweeping views of the orderly city blocks, the Seine winding through the heart of Paris, and all the main monuments lit up below. 

Which has the better view? 

Here’s the real head-scratcher! Eiffel Tower promises jaw-dropping views from right in the center of the postcard—its top deck gives you a panorama of every major Paris landmark, with the sprawling park below. But, because you’re standing on the landmark, you can’t get a view of the Eiffel Tower itself. 

Tour Montparnasse has the edge here for photographers and view-chasers: from its terrace, you’ll snap the Eiffel Tower gleaming above a sea of rooftops, framed by the river and the city’s symmetrical avenues. For that classic "Paris from above" shot, Montparnasse takes the gold—but nothing beats the thrill of standing tall atop the Eiffel Tower itself. 

How do I get there? 

Eiffel Tower: 

  • Metro: Line 6 (Bir-Hakeim) or Line 9 (Trocadéro) 
  • RER C: Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel station 
  • Bus: Lines 42, 69, 82, 87 
  • Walking: A scenic amble along the Seine from Pont d’Iéna or through the gardens of Champ de Mars 

Tour Montparnasse: 

  • Metro: Montparnasse–Bienvenüe station (Lines 4, 6, 12, 13) 
  • Bus: Several options converge at Montparnasse station (Lines 28, 58, 82, 88, 91, 92, 94, 95, 96) 
  • Easy on foot from Montparnasse’s bustling neighborhoods, shopping streets, and Left Bank cafes 

Which is the best choice for families, couples, or friends?

Families: Both towers are excellent. The Eiffel Tower’s glass floor and history-themed exhibits intrigue curious kids (and big kids). Montparnasse’s beanbag seating, user-friendly telescopes, and open rooftop deck make it a winner for families who want a little more space to roam and relax. 

Couples: Few experiences beat an Eiffel Tower sunset or an after-dark stroll on the terrace for romance. Montparnasse offers a more private setting with champagne toasts and cozy views for two—a favorite for proposals and romantic getaways. 

Friends: Both adventures are group-friendly, but Montparnasse can feel easier to navigate together when avoiding long queues. Grab a group selfie with all of Paris behind you, or compare camera skills as you spot different landmarks. 

I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands-on’ activities? 

Both options offer family-friendly facilities and plenty of snacks for mid-tour refueling. 

Eiffel Tower engages kids with immersive exhibits and fun facts about its engineering, not to mention the interactive glass floor that feels a little bit like flying! Street performers and nearby playgrounds in Champ de Mars add extra energy to the visit. 

Tour Montparnasse wins for chill-out space—kids can hop between digital screens, comfy beanbags, and open-air viewing decks. Educational displays help young explorers identify everything from Les Invalides to the distant hills of Montmartre. 

What’s the accessibility like? 

Eiffel Tower: The Eiffel Tower goes above and beyond for accessibility. Elevators whisk guests smoothly to the first and second levels. Ramps and spacious pathways make getting around comfortable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. Staff are always nearby if you need a hand navigating, and accessible bathrooms are available. Note, though: the very top level is unfortunately off-limits to wheelchair users due to its tight layout. Still, stunning views await from the second level (and arguably, they’re the best for taking in the city). 

Tour Montparnasse: Montparnasse Tower is known for being friendly to everyone, with step-free access from street level right up to the summit. Modern elevators shoot straight to the 56th floor viewing deck, and ramps continue to the open-air terrace. Spacious lounges and clear signage mean everyone can relax and soak up the scene. The building also boasts large accessible restrooms and easy ticketing kiosks. 

Best lunch spots nearby? 

Eiffel Tower: 

  • Le Bistro Parisien: Steps from the tower with a riverfront terrace, this glass-walled restaurant serves classic French fare. Their “pavé de saumon” (pan-seared salmon) is a highlight and pairs perfectly with a glass of chilled Chablis. The vibe is modern, upbeat, and you can watch boats drift by the Seine. 
  • 58 Tour Eiffel: Located right on the tower’s first floor, this reservation-only restaurant offers contemporary French cuisine with jaw-dropping views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Expect refined dishes such as duck confit or seasonal tasting menus. 
  • Creperie Framboise: For something quick and fun, step over to this cheerful creperie. Sweet or savory crêpes, galettes with gooey cheese and ham, and Nutella for the win for kids and adults alike. Casual, budget-friendly, and steps from Champ de Mars. 

Tour Montparnasse: 

  • Le Ciel de Paris: This is the showpiece at the top of Tour Montparnasse, with city-spanning views and refined French cuisine. The “risotto de homard” (lobster risotto) is a fan favorite, and the setting is all chic tables, ambient lighting, and twinkling Paris far below. 
  • La Coupole: Legendary among Parisian brasseries and just down the boulevard, La Coupole dazzles with art deco interiors, seafood platters for sharing, and its famous curry lamb. The buzz of artists and locals makes it lively and classic. 
  • Boulangerie Poilâne: Looking for a flaky croissant or rustic sandwich to go? This bakery is a local gem, offering the freshest breads and pastries. Grab a pain au chocolat and stroll over to the nearby Jardin Atlantique. 
  • For food markets, the Marché Edgar Quinet (open Wednesdays and Saturdays) is a local treasure packed with cheese stalls, fresh produce, and irresistible treats—perfect for snacking on the go! 

Where are the best photo opportunities? 

Eiffel Tower: For legendary Paris photos, stand on the Trocadéro Esplanade. Arrive early for crowd-free shots, or come at golden hour for that magical glow. The gardens at Champ de Mars are also perfect for capturing the full tower with bursts of seasonal flowers in the frame. Don’t forget selfies through the glass floor on the first level—it’s a unique way to capture the city under your feet! 

Tour Montparnasse: The open-air terrace is a dream for photographers—no glass in your way, and unforgettable Eiffel Tower shots at sunset. Try shooting towards the Seine to capture sweeping cityscapes, or at night when Paris twinkles below. For the most romantic glow, plan your visit around sunset—best of all, you’ll catch the Eiffel Tower as it begins its nighttime light show. 

Tips: Bring a zoom lens for picking out Paris’s hidden corners and play with panoramic shots for that all-in feel! 

We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area? 

Near the Eiffel Tower: 

  • Le Bar à Champagne at the top of the Eiffel Tower: Sip a chilled flute of bubbly while gazing out over Paris—does it get more celebratory? They offer a selection of French champagnes and the experience feels like a toast to life itself. 
  • Chez Francis: This classic Parisian brasserie near Place de l’Alma serves up strong espresso by day and Aperol spritz on its terrace by night. Casual, with rattan chairs and a bustling local crowd. 

Near Tour Montparnasse: 

  • Le Ciel de Paris Bar: At 210 meters high, it’s the city’s loftiest lounge. The signature ‘Ciel de Paris’ cocktail (vodka, pear liqueur, and sparkling wine) pairs perfectly with the world beneath your feet. 
  • Le Falstaff: This busy local pub, just steps from Montparnasse Tower, is great if you prefer a pint or classic French beers. With leather booths and friendly banter at the bar, it’s a relaxed spot for winding down after sightseeing. 

Any other good stuff nearby? 

Eiffel Tower: 

  • Don’t miss the Seine riverbank walks—perfect for a riverside stroll or a cruise with sights and commentary en route. 
  • Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac is a short wander away, celebrated for its lively exhibitions of global art and culture.
  • You can also picnic on Champ de Mars, a leafy retreat beloved by locals for an afternoon break.
  • Looking for a great viewpoint? Climb the steps of Trocadéro Gardens for swoon-worthy panoramas—early morning is peaceful and perfect for photos. 

Tour Montparnasse: 

  • The nearby Jardin Atlantique hovers atop the Montparnasse station—think hidden garden oasis with plenty of benches, walking trails, and fountains.
  • If you’re in the mood for a classic Parisian cemetery walk, Cimetière du Montparnasse is the final resting place of touchstone artists like Simone de Beauvoir and Serge Gainsbourg.
  • Culture lovers will want to browse the quirky exhibits at Musée Bourdelle (free entry!), housed in a sculptor’s old atelier.
  • For shopping fans, try the bustling markets or charming boutiques of Rue de Rennes—perfect for fashion finds and foodie gifts. 

Summary: Both Special—And the Go City® Paris Pass Makes It Easy 

Both Eiffel Tower and Tour Montparnasse bring something special to the Paris experience. One is a bucket-list favorite, promising adventure, glamour, and legends to discover at every level. The other is a modern gem with relaxed vibes, sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower, and fewer crowds.

But why choose just one? With Go City®, you can visit both, plus dozens of other attractions, all while saving money and skipping the stress of individual tickets. Get ready for a Paris trip packed with fun, discovery, and unforgettable moments!

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Tour Montparnasee or Best Day Trips from Paris

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We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  
 
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An Alternative Guide to Paris Museums

Paris is one of those amazing European cities just brimming with art, culture, and history. In fact, some of the most famous museums in the entire world are found right here in the City of Lights. We’ve all heard of the Louvre, Musée D’Orsay, Versailles, and so on. But what about those of you who’ve already hit up the biggies and are looking to explore some more distinctive or unusual Paris museums? If you’re looking for alternatives to the major label museums in Paris, have we got the handy little guide for you. Check out our guide to the quirky, unique, and unexpected museums in Paris. The alternative museums we highlight in this post include: Musée des Plans-Reliefs Musée de Cluny Museum of Arts & Crafts Museum of Decorative Arts Château de Rambouillet Sèvres, City of Ceramics Museum of Music Discovery Palace Picasso Museum Musée des Plans-Reliefs The Musée des Plans-Reliefs would be Toby Shandy’s delight. 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Museum of Arts & Crafts The Musée des Arts et Métiers is something of a misleading name for this fine collection of scientific and industrial materials. Here you’ll find tens of thousands of drawings and objects—among which are some of the most famous technical objects in history, such as an original Foucault pendulum, the original model for what would become the Statue of Liberty, and the first mechanical calculator. Visitors can also explore historic cars, planes, and other artifacts from the history of transportation. Museum of Decorative Arts Housed in a portion of the Louvre Palace (but distinct from the Louvre itself), the Musée des Arts Décoratifs brings together compelling exhibits from the history of graphic arts, advertising, and fashion. The overall focus is on design and decorative arts, with objects like furniture, wallpaper, ceramics, glassware, children’s toys, carpets, and much more comprising its extensive collections. Visitors will also want to take time to explore themed period rooms that showcase different moments in the history of material goods. Château de Rambouillet Castle of Rambouillet is located a fair distance southwest of Paris, but it’s worth the extra effort to see this remarkable museum. Formerly the summer home of the Presidents of the French Republic, it’s now a historic monument preserving the long history of the castle. It was originally built in the fourteenth century but is most famous as the place that Louis XIV transformed into an idealized version of a country dairy to please his queen, Marie-Antoinette. There were further additions and modifications made by later rulers as well. Sèvres, City of Ceramics A small community in the southwest suburbs of Paris, Sèvres is known for its unparalleled production of exquisite porcelain. The largest porcelain manufactory in Europe is still located in this neighborhood, as the eponymous Sèvres – Cité de la Céramique museum. A visit here is an opportunity to learn about the historic porcelain production in France, as well as a chance to see their fine collection of Asian and European ceramics, including many pieces by modern and contemporary artists. Museum of Music Located within the renowned performance space Cité de la Musique, the Musée de la Musique boasts a unique collection of rare and unusual instruments. Visitors can peruse over 1,000 instruments and musical artifacts ranging from a tortoise guitar to a crystal flute. The collections span the period from the seventeenth century through the modern era including non-European instruments and music. The accompanying audio guide allows visitors to listen to recordings, and free daily concerts provide live musical inspiration. Discovery Palace The Palais de la Découverte is an exciting modern science museum located in the 8th arrondissement in Paris. 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Pay only 95 Euro for the 48-hour Paris Museum Pass, which covers admission to more than 55 different museums and monuments in the broader Paris area. The Go Paris pass also includes admission to tours, cruises, and other fun attractions to help round out your weekend getaway. Share Your Adventure with Us Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination, too!
Katie Sagal
Louvre Museum
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Guide to the Louvre Museum - Tips for Visiting

If you do one thing in Paris, it should be the Louvre. Pay a visit to the world’s largest art museum and spend an entire day marveling at their exhaustive collections of art and artifacts. It's consistently among the most-visited art museums and one of Paris’ most popular attractions. While their collections encompass some 380,000 objects, only a portion of these are on display at any given time. Items hail from all around the globe and throughout human history, including objects from prehistory all the way up to twenty-first-century works of art. The Louvre has particularly notable strengths in Egyptian Antiquities, Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities, Sculpture, and Painting, among others. The museum itself is a work of art—housed in the Louvre Palace (originally built in the late twelfth century as the Louvre Castle), it’s a veritable maze of art and artworks. Creative types will find a haven here, with something from just about every period and field to marvel at. Don’t forget about the signature I. M. Pei pyramid out the front which acts not only as a piece of art but a stunning entranceway to the museum! The Louvre Tickets Looking for discount tickets to the Louvre? Grab a pass from Go City. Spend less on admission to the Louvre and dozens of other museums, tours, cruises, and other great Paris attractions. Enjoy 2, 3, 4 or 6 days of unlimited sightseeing and save big on combined admission versus paying at the gate. See more on pricing for our passes. Louvre Tips for Visiting Be sure to download an interactive floor plan prior to your visit — it’s available in seven languages and will be invaluable in helping you plot out your course through the museum. Consult the museum calendar to see what special events, gallery talks, or tours are going on during the day of your visit. You may also wish to grab an audio guide for the Louvre. Available in seven languages, this is one of the coolest and more comprehensive audio guides around. The Louvre is big—like, really big. Wear comfortable shoes and plan to rest periodically. The Louvre is also difficult to navigate, but they’ve really simplified things by making their collections color-coded. Each of the eight curatorial departments is assigned a color, and then each room within the department is given a number. Follow your map and the signs on the wall and you’ll be good to go. Take your kids to the Touch Gallery. It’s the only place in the entire museum where visitors are encouraged to touch the sculptures (which are replicas of those found in the museum’s collections). Other important places like elevators, restrooms, and restaurants are identified via pictograms—so no worries if you don’t read French. For those visitors traveling with little ones, check out the Tuileries Gardens, which are filled with kid-friendly activities like a carousel, trampolines, and little boats. What is the Best Time to Go to the Louvre? You should plan to spend most of the day at the Louvre if you want to see a representative sample of the exhibits; it is also possible, however, to organize a “highlights” tour and accomplish it all in a few hours. We recommend visiting the museum first thing in the morning as soon as they open to maximize your time spent inside the institution. Crowds will be heavier mid-morning and late afternoon. If you're trying to attend a special docent tour, it’s wise to consult the museum’s schedule of events to see what’s available during the day of your visit. What to Bring to the Louvre Comfy walking shoes – the floors are hard and you’ll be traipsing around quite a bit. Money for souvenirs – their bookstore is one of the best places to shop for tourists in the entire city and it’s worth spending some time there. Layers – the museum is climate controlled, but this can differ depending upon the type of art. As a result, you may feel cool in some rooms but warmer in others. A camera—there are places in the Louvre where photography is limited or prohibited, but you’ll want it on hand for the opportunities that do arise. What to Do at the Louvre The museum collections are all sorted into one of eight curatorial departments: Egyptian Antiquities; Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities; Near Eastern Antiquities; Islamic Art; Paintings; Sculptures; Decorative Arts; and Prints and Drawings. We’ve listed a few of the highlights of each department below. Egyptian Antiquities One of the most famous collections within the Louvre’s vast holdings, the department of Egyptian Antiquities is filled with hundreds of items from Nile Valley civilizations. Items date as far back as the prehistoric period (about 4000 BCE) all the way to the early Christian period (around the fourth century CE). The objects in this department include everything from small pieces of jewelry, games, funeral urns, and amulets to large sarcophagi, engraved portions of tomb walls, and statuary. Greek, Etruscan, and Roman Antiquities Spanning the rich, diverse cultures of Greece, Italy, and the broader Mediterranean area, the objects and artifacts in this department range from the Neolithic era to the sixth century CE. Here is where fans of classical archaeology and mythology will find their inspiration. With art objects that cover everything from the iconic amphoras to intricate statues of the gods to the signature black and red Greek pottery, you’ll be amazed at the breadth and depth of these collections. Near East Antiquities One of the broadest categories of art and objects at the Louvre, the Near East Antiquities department spans an astonishing nine thousand-year period—from prehistory to the early Islamic period. Artifacts were discovered in a wide range of territory, from North Africa to Central Asia, and from the Black Sea to the Arabian Peninsula. Highlights of this department include tablets bearing some of the earliest forms of writing, ancient beaded jewelry, board games, and dozens of religious statues and figures. Islamic Art New galleries in this department opened in 2012, allowing for an expanded display of Islamic artwork for Louvre visitors. There are a few thousand objects on display here, ranging geographically from Southeast Asia to Spain, and temporally across nearly 1,300 years of human history. A few of the objects you might see in this department include dishware and pottery, sculptures, textiles and texts, and manuscript pages. Paintings With a couple hundred works currently on display, paintings are one of the larger curatorial focus points at the Louvre. This department is among the most famous as well, with particular strengths in Italian Renaissance art and Dutch Old Masters. 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Decorative Arts One of the best departments for those who appreciate and/or study the history of material culture in a global context, this area of the Louvre boasts a simply stunning collection of objects from around the world. Objects were created between the early Middle Ages and the mid-nineteenth century. You’ll find everything from jewelry and ivory work to stained glass and furniture. Many of these objects inspire us to wonder what will happen to our own precious goods after we’re gone. Prints and Drawings This is one for the history of the book people. Here you’ll find a wide selection of printed material, including drawings, pastels, printed books, manuscripts, woodcuts, and lithographic stones. The unique thing about this department is its approach to displaying the collections—because of their innate fragility, most works are kept in careful storage and are circulated in and out of temporary displays. As a result, all exhibits here are temporary, so what you see during your visit will be totally unique! Save on Louvre Tickets with a Go Paris pass A Go City attraction pass for Paris provides admission to the Louvre and dozens of other Paris and area museums for one low price. You’ll also get admission to tours, cruises, and other top Parisian attractions to round out your weekend getaway.
Katie Sagal
The Louvre
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Paris Secrets: Free Things to See Near the Louvre

From hidden gardens to street beats, here’s Paris near the Louvre—free of charge.

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