The Eiffel Tower is easily the most famous and popular landmark not only in Paris, but also the world. Standing 324m above the exceptionally beautiful city it’s not difficult to understand why this impressive structure attracts over 6 million visitors each year. Here are a few suggestions of places to go to avoid the hustle and bustle and still have the pleasure of being able to marvel at the undeniably striking Eiffel Tower.
Perfect for a rainy day – Montparnasse Tower
At a staggering 689 feet tall the Montparnasse tower can certainly offer spectacular views over the city. Visitors are invited to take a 38-second elevator ride up to the Panoramic floor, which at 59 stories high its certainly not for the faint hearted! Here you are met with 360° awe-inspiring views as far as the eye can see, including of course, the magnificent Eiffel Tower! The majority of this floor is indoors so you don’t have to worry about facing the unpleasant winds and rains on a stormy day. While you’re up there it’s definitely worth having a cup of coffee at high altitude at the 360 Café or for a special occasion book a table at Paris’ sky high restaurant; Le Ciel de Paris, located on the 56th floor.
Fun for all the Family – River cruise on the Seine
Seine River, courtesy of Eurapart
Running right through the center of Paris the river Seine is the perfect spot to admire many of Paris’ best landmarks. From the Louvre to the Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower there are many monuments to be spotted while blissfully floating down the Seine on one of the numerous river tours available. Most of the cruises are narrated along the way offering an educational experience as well as a fun trip for the family.
A spiritual experience- Sacre Couer Basilica
Sacre Couer Basilica, courtesy of friedx
Located across the city at the top of the 18th arrondissement, a trip to the Sacre Coeur Basilica is a must do. Sitting upon the sacred hill of Montmatre, the Sacre Coeur Basilica alone is guaranteed to take your breath away – and that’s not even mentioning the views from the dome! There is no denying the climb up to the top is challenging, however the rewards are immense. At 200 meters above sea level, once at the dome, climbers are greeted by an incredible outlook spanning over 50 kilometers giving you the opportunity to enjoy the sights of the city sprawled out before your eyes.
Place du Trocadero, courtesy of Sean MacEntee
Up close and personal – Place du Trocadero
This central square is the perfect location to find uninterrupted views of the Eiffel Tower, since the only thing that sits between you and this infamous landmark are beautifully landscaped gardens parted by the river Seine. In the evening there is no better place to be as the Eiffel Tower magically lights up and sparkles, casting a certain je ne sais quoi over the city. A mere 10 minute stroll away from the tower, be sure to take some holiday snaps before joining the masses in the line up to the tallest monument in Paris.
Excited to get to Paris? The best way to really get to know a city is to live like the locals! See Paris through a Parisian’s eyes by renting an apartment. Apartments offer more space, freedom and convenience so make sure to look into Paris apartment rentals when you plan your holiday. The Eiffel Tower awaits you!
Written by Francesca Edwards, All-Paris-Apartments.com
October 15th, 2011 at 7:31 am
Hi, great to see that your site is published under a Creative Commons licence. So if I use anything, you’d expect me to link back to this blog. I’m fine with that, but why is there no link back to my photo and why have you cropped it?
October 15th, 2011 at 1:00 pm
John, the author of this article chose the photos and gave me links to Flickr as the source. I did credit the photos but didnt think links to Flickr were appropriate. I did not crop any photos – I used them as I found them unless WordPress has a default that I’m not aware. My apologies. If you tell me which one it is, I will be happy to take it down. Cynthia