Looking for the most Instagrammable places in Paris? Look no further, I’ve rounded up the 20 of the best and most photogenic spots in the city to help you snap those perfect Paris photos!
Ahhh Paris…is there not a more beautiful and photogenic city? Personally, I think not. I absolutely fell in love with the City of Lights, and to me, the whole city is Instagrammable – I definitely could not stop snapping photos during my 2 days in Paris.
There is no shortage of amazing places to take pictures in Paris, and I definitely made sure to include some of the top Paris Instagram spots on my Paris Bucket List.
But what if you are looking for the best of the best photo spots in Paris? You’ve come to the right place, because I am here to show where you where the most Instagrammable places in Paris are!
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Tips for Visiting the Best Paris Photo Spots
- Try to shoot early morning: Paris tends to get BUSY, so the early bird gets the worm! You’ll want to get up and start shooting as close to sunrise as possible. This is especially true at super busy spots, such as Trocadero.
- Get a Paris Museum Pass: This will save you quite a bit of money when visiting some of the top Paris attractions that are on this list of best photography spots. Some of these spots include Arc de Triomphe, Versailles, Musee d’Orsay, Sainte Chapelle, and the Louvre.
- Keep a close watch on your stuff: Paris is notorious for pickpockets, and they tend to strike when you are distracted and not paying attention. Be sure to keep a close watch on all your stuff as you’re out shooting, *especially* on that expensive camera equipment!
The Most Instagrammable Places in Paris
1. Eiffel Tower
Ok, but this one needs no explanation, right? Nothing symbolizes Paris more than the Eiffel Tower, and she is a beaut. Honestly, you will not be able to stop snapping photos of this iconic Parisian landmark, which makes it one of the best Paris Instagram spots.
Going up to the top of the Eiffel Tower is one of those touristy AF things to do in Paris, but it’s definitely something that everyone needs to do once on their Paris bucket list! If you plan to go up the Eiffel Tower, definitely remember to book your tickets in advance.
While you can get a cool, up-close shot of the Eiffel Tower looking up at it, there are much better photo spots of the Eiffel Tower.
Quite possibly the best place to see and photograph the Eiffel Tower is Trocadero, which sits directly across the river from it. You are situated right in front of it and it makes for the perfect shot of the Eiffel Tower. Three places to get that perfect Instagram shot: along the tiled floor, on the staircase, and with the carousel. Be aware that 345930485340958 people will also know that this is one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris.
The Trocadero is definitely one of the most popular Paris Instagram spots, and is a favorite amongst both tourists and local photographers. In order to get a photo without 32894723947 other people in it, you will have to visit around sunrise.
I visited Paris in the winter, and while the good news was that sunrise was around 8:30am and I didn’t have to drag myself out of bed toooo early in the morning (this girl loves her sleep), the weather was still overcast and the top of the Eiffel Tower was hidden in fog. Unfortunately, Paris was my last stop on this specific trip to Europe and I only had one day there, so this was the best I could do!
Fog or no fog, I still think the Eiffel Tower looks beautiful!
Can’t get enough of the Eiffel Tower? Here are even more of the most Instagrammable places in Paris to take Eiffel Tower photos!
- From one of Paris’s bridges – I snapped the above photo from the Pointe Alexandre III.
- From the top of the Arc de Triomphe – you get a lovely perspective of the Eiffel Tower against the Paris skyline.
- Rue de’l Université, with its cobblestone streets and beautiful architecture
- Pont d’Iena, which connects Trocadero to the Eiffel Tower. Also a great spot to watch the light show at night.
- Bir Hakiem Bridge (formerly known as Pont de Passy), which connects the 15th and 16th arrondissements. Beautiful iron architecture, plus you get to see the foliage on the bottom of the Eiffel Tower.
- Champs de Mars – especially beautiful in the spring, when the cherry blossoms are blooming in front of the Eiffel Tower!
- From the rooftop of the Galleries Lafayette and Printemps department stores.
- From the river banks of the Seine – especially near the Trocadero.
Eiffel Tower Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
Trocadero Address: Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre
Eiffel Tower Admission: €18.80-29.40, buy tickets here
2. The Louvre
Arguably the best art museum in the world, and perhaps the most beautiful – the one thing everyone can agree on is that the Louvre is one of the best places to take pictures in Paris. The fusion of classic architecture of the main museum building, along with the modern glass pyramids (which were controversial when they were first built) makes it an interesting subject to photograph.
The outdoor courtyard is the most popular when photographing the Louvre, but the inside halls are absolutely ornate and gorgeous and may also be a good photo op for your Instagram feed.
Another awesome photo spot at the Louvre is from the entrance gate on Rue de Rivoli and Rude de Marengo – the mini pyramid and large pyramid stack up perfectly with each other, and are framed so nicely by the arch of the gate itself!
The Louvre is also one of those places that is super popular, so if you want a shot without a horde of people cramping up your style, come to photograph it on a day that the museum is closed (every Tuesday).
This wasn’t actually my intent when I did it – I just didn’t realize it was closed that day – but it worked out well. Just be sure to make time to come back to explore the museum because it really is the best art museum in the world. (But keep in mind that you need to make an advanced reservation to visit!)
Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Admission: €22 – you must buy a timed entry ticket – prebook here.
3. Palais Royal
Not far from the Louvre is the Palais Royal, which has become known as one of the most unique Paris photography spots with its iconic striped black and white columns. Did you know that these columns, named Buren’s Columns, were a once a controversial art installation?
These 260 columns extend from the basement and extend up to the surface at different heights, and were nearly destroyed multiple times. Good thing they weren’t, because now it is one of the best photo spots in Paris.
It’s fun to play around with the different heights of these columns! There will be a fair amount of people here, but if you angle your shot the right way, you’ll be able to get a shot without them! I found that shooting with the columns near the back, closest to the building were the best ones to get a shot.
Address: 8 Rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France
Hours: 8am-10:30pm
4. Palais Garnier
Have you seen a more spectacular opera hall than the Palais Garnier? Yeah, didn’t think so. Seriously though, these ornate ceilings and grand staircases are a sight to behold.
You can book a self-guided tour to see the facilities without attending a performance, but I would absolutely love to see an opera performance there someday.
Address: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris, France
Tickets: €15, book tour here
5. Notre Dame
The famous Notre Dame cathedral is one of the prime examples of Gothic architecture and the architectural details on the main facade, are all absolutely spectacular.
What makes it even more impressive is when you take into account that this was all built without modern machinery. Construction of the cathedral started in 1163 and was completed in 1345. Seriously mind-blowing!
Tragically, a fire destroyed part of the Notre Dame in 2019 and it remains fenced off. The rear of the cathedral, which had some stunning Gothic details, was also burned down. It is expected that the cathedral will reopen in 2024, in time for the Paris Olympics (but we will see…)
However, the iconic facade with the twin towers still stand. While you cannot get right up close to it, you can still snap a photo from the street- I actually preferred this view. Try snapping a photo of the facade from Pont Norte Dame for the perfect shot.
Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
6. Rue Crémieux
Paris has no shortage of photogenic streets, but Rue Crémieux might take the cake for being the most Instagrammable street in all of Paris. But seriously, how can one ever resist those pretty pastel facades? Who wants to move into one of these houses with me (I promise I will be a super cool neighbor)?
My hotel during my first visit to Paris was about a 15 minute walk from Rue Crémieux, and no joke, I stopped by 4 times. I was just that in love with it. It also definitely has a reputation as one of the most popular Paris Instagram spots, so at any given time, you will see about 5 other photo shoots going on (which actually makes for some good people watching).
Do keep in mind that this is a residential street and that it is super important to be mindful and respectful! Just take a few shots super quickly, and don’t make a lot of noise. Also be aware that some of the houses have “no photos” signs in front of them, so be respectful of these residents’ wishes.
7. La Maison Rose
One of the prettiest sights within the charming Montmarte neighborhood, La Maison Rose is definitely one of the top Paris photo spots. Because can you ever go wrong with a pink storefront? Methinks not.
Seriously though, I’m in love with the perfect pink with the green shutters, and I’m definitely not the only one. Also look out for the ivy wall during the spring and summer (it had already died off when I visited in December).
And, the street leading up to it is super cute as well! It is made for Instagram and it is definitely one of the best photo spots in Paris.
Address: 2 Rue de l’Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris, France
8. Musée d’Orsay
Paris has no shortage of amazing art museums, and the Museé d’Orsay is another must-visit (the Monet collection is fantastic). It is also one of the most beautiful Paris photography locations.
The museum is housed in a former train station, which is a beautiful building itself. However, the best photo spot here is the giant clock tower with a perfect view of the city and the Louvre.
It took me a little while to figure out where the clock tower is. If you’re completely lost and confused like I was, it is on the 5th floor. There will be a line of people there also trying to get the same shot (it is one of the best places to take pictures in Paris, after all), but the line is orderly.
It does get busy at the Musee d’Orsay, especially during the busy tourist season. To avoid any long lines, I highly recommend booking your skip-the-line tickets in advance of your visit!
Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France
Admission: €13, buy skip-the-line tickets here.
9. Pont Alexandre III
Perhaps the most iconic bridge in Paris, and one of the most of the beautiful in the world, the Pont Alexandre III definitely is one of the best places to take pictures in Paris. The bridge was inaugurated at the 1900 World’s Fair and has four 17-meter high columns with bronze sculptures of winged horses to symbolize the arts, sciences, commerce, and industry.
You can snap a photo of it from the bottom to capture all the ornate details or the bridge, or while crossing the bridge for a perfect view of the Seine and the Eiffel Tower. Be sure to look out for the magnificent details on the posts as well.
Address: Pont Alexandre III, 75008 Paris, France
10. Ladureé
Things you must do in Paris #1: eat as many Parisian pastries as you can – especially macarons!
Macarons may just be the most photogenic confection ever, and Laudreé’s are probably the best I’ve had in my life. Ladureé has several outposts throughout the city, but the main store on Champs-Élysées is definitely one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris.
Address (Champs-Élysées location): 75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France
11. Sacré-Cœur
Perched on top of a hill in Montmartre is Sacré-Cœur, which is characterized by its white color and spectacular domes. Built in the Roman-Byzantine style, the church also offers spectacular views of the city below. It is also home to the largest mosaic in France. You can walk up the hill to access it, but if you want to skip all that huffing and puffing, you can also take the funicular.
This is also the highest point in all of Paris, so be sure to snap some photos of the view as well!
It is definitely one of the most popular Paris Instagram spots and tourist attractions in the city, so expect a crowd unless you come early in the morning. However, if you end up coming midday, there are some hacks to help you take an Instagram-worthy shot without all the people!
I’ve found that snapping a photo of the Sacré-Cœur from the rear gives it a cool angle. Another great spot is from before you go up the last flight of stairs – the stairs also add some extra visual interest to your shot.
Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
Admission: free
12. Sinking house of Montmartre
Located right by the Sacré-Cœur is the “sinking”house of Montmartre, which is a favorite as one of the best Instagram spots in Paris. Don’t worry – la maison isn’t actually sinking, but is rather an optical illusion that is created because the house peeks out from the side of a hill.
Now where is this sinking house of Montmarte? As you take the steps up to Sacré-Cœur, when you reach the final set of stairs, you will notice a grassy bank on the right side. Behind this, you’ll notice the orange building. This is the “sinking” house.
Tilt your camera to be level with the hillside and the house will look like it’s sinking! Such a cool shot for your Instagram feed.
13. Arc de Triomphe
The iconic monument is one of the most popular tourist spots in Paris, and seeing the traffic make a roundabout around it is quite an impressive sight.
You can capture the details carved throughout the monument by being right up against it; or, if you want to get a wider shot of the entire thing, the best place to photograph it is from Champs-Élysées.
The traffic around the roundabout at the Arc de Triomphe is INSANE. Seriously, just watch it and you’ll be amazed. If you want a straight-on photo from the street, well, good luck contending with that traffic – I definitely don’t recommend it, unless you come very, VERY early in the morning, where there are few cars out.
But perhaps the best thing about the Arc de Triomphe is the view from the top. You can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, with a perfectly situated Eiffel Tower.
On the other side, you can look out to a perfect view of Champs-Élysées, with its row of French rooftops. Definitely picture perfect!
Be sure to book your skip-the-line tickets in advance so that you don’t have to waste time in line when visiting, as this is one of the most popular attractions in Paris.
Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
Admission: €16, book tickets here.
14. Versailles
Ok, so Versailles is technically outside Paris city limits, but it is so spectacular that I just couldn’t leave it off a list of the best Paris Instagram spots.
This is one of the most popular day trips from Paris, and I highly recommend it! You really have to see it in person to really appreciate the opulence and extravagance of the place. The bling of all the gold is something like I’ve never seen before. You will definitely be snapping away at everything you see here.
My favorite photo op here was in the courtyard. You can really see the bling of the gold on the facade – it really pops in person. You’ll probably see that every one else is also going to try to get a photo here – I found that shooting at a side angle will eliminate all the people in the background and make it seem like you have the place to yourself!
Definitely do not miss the stunning Hall of Mirrors – I’ve never seen anything like it. It is, however, very difficult to get a photo here without anyone else in it unless you rush here first thing after you enter the palace. But even if you don’t get an Instagram-worthy photo, it’s definitely worth checking out to ooooh and aaaah over.
My #1 piece of advice – go as early as you can to avoid the crowds! Even during slow season (I went in February), it can still get pretty crowded midday. You must booking tickets in advance – or buying a Paris Museum Pass (which grants you free entry, but you still need to make reservations) – so that you can skip the ticket queue and go straight into the line to get into the palace! This is especially important during the peak summer months!
I wish I was there during a warmer time of the year so that I could’ve appreciated the gardens more – they are beautiful, but everything was dead and brown in February. I imagine it would be absolutely stunning during the warmer months.
Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
Admission: €21 for palace only, €32 with gardens, buy tickets here
15. Sainte Chapelle
I had no idea what Sainte Chapelle was before I got to Paris – in fact, the only reason I went was because it seemed like it would be a good place to pick up the Paris museum pass without waiting in a long line.
Boy, I am glad I discovered this place, because it is absolutely breath-taking. Those stained glass windows are absolutely stunning.
Address: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
Admission: €13, buy tickets here
16. Le Consulat
There’s just something about the classic Parisian bistro that makes them utterly photogenic, isn’t there? Le Consulat is another one of the best Instagram spots in Paris that is also located in Montmartre, near the Sacré-Cœur.
There’s just something about that red and green awning, and that typography that makes it one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris. (FYI, I’ve never eaten there, but a quick search on Yelp says that their food is also tasty, and that the French onion soup is excellent – which makes it a must visit on my next trip to Paris).
Address: 18 Rue Norvins, 75018 Paris, France
17. Jardin des Tuileries
There is no shortage of pretty gardens in Paris. So what makes the Jardin des Tuileries one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris? First, those trees are lined up so perfectly to frame the Louvre. I mean, look at it!
The best time to photograph this is is in the fall, when the colors of the leaves start changing. Absolutely spectacular. I visited in the beginning of December, and unfortunately the leaves were beginning to die off, but you could still see some orange in them!
The other reason? You get a perfect shot of the giant ferris wheel on Champs-Élysées. (Psssst…during the holiday season, they also have a Christmas market here! Be sure to pick up a cup of wine chaud, aka mulled wine).
Address: Place de la Concorde, 75001 Paris, France
18. The Seine
With its many ornate bridges and iconic Parisian architecture on either side, you can’t deny that the walking along the Seine (or cruising in it) affords you with an abundance of incredible views.
Seriously though, one of my favorite things that I did in Paris was just endlessly roaming along the banks of the river and taking in those views. Just spend a few hours to walk down the banks and you will see what I mean – endless photo ops await.
I also highly recommend taking a Seine River cruise so you can relax as you take in those pretty views!
19. Printemps
Head up to the rooftop cafe of the Printemps Haussman department store for one of the best views in town! Enjoy a perfect panoramic view of Montmartre, the Parisian rooftops, the city, and perhaps what makes the view, the Eiffel Tower, as you sip on a café au lait and enjoy a croissant. Definitely makes this one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris.
Address: 64 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France
20. Galerie Vivienne
Did you know that Paris is home to some 40 hidden passageways from the 18th and 19th centuries? At one point, there were more than 150 of these passageways; modernization has destroyed many of these, but a handful remain. One of the most beautiful is the Galerie Vivienne, which is also one of the oldest.
Galerie Vivienne has gorgeous tiled floors and a glass ceiling that allows ample natural light to stream through. The passageway is dotted with quaint bookstores and cafés.
It’s also one of the most Instagram-worthy places to visit during the holiday season, as there is a spectacular tree that stands here every year.
Address: 5 Rue de la Banque, 75002 Paris, France
What are some of your picks for the most Instagrammable places in Paris? Let me know in the comments below!
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Caroline is a Southern California based traveler, writer, and photographer. She travels all around California, the US, and the world in search of the most colorful places, the most delicious food, and bucket-list adventures. Her aim is to inspire other travelers discover how to add more adventure and joy to their lives. On Pictures & Words, you’ll find detailed guides + itineraries, along with vibrant photos to help you plan the the most epic trips. When she’s not traveling, Caroline also runs half marathons.
riya
Tuesday 27th of November 2018
nice post
Mia Lupo
Sunday 20th of May 2018
This is such a great list of Instagrammable destinations in Paris! I would also recommend adding Île Saint Louis, the island behind Notre Dame :)
Christie
Sunday 20th of May 2018
Paris is by far one of the most photogenic places in the world! So many beautiful spots <3 I can't wait to visit Paris again and see some more of these!
Annemarie Strehl
Sunday 20th of May 2018
I didn't even know about Rue Crémieux. Thanks for these cool tips!
Shannon Guerrero
Sunday 20th of May 2018
Well now I'm just dying to hop on a plane to Paris! Seriously amazing spots around the city!