10+ Ridiculously Dreamy Photo Spots in Paris (and why your instagram will love them)
Paris, the City of Lights, is every photographer’s dream. Between the Eiffel Tower practically posing for you at sunset and the sheer number of adorable cafés lining the streets – you’re guaranteed to leave this city with a new perspective and an overflowing camera roll. You can forget packing light on clothes, you’ll need all the space for photos instead!
So get ready to pack your camera bags and join me on a whirlwind adventure through Paris’ most beautiful photo spots. We’ll chase iconic landmarks at golden hour, discover secret alleys, and capture the essence of Parisian life (like an insider) with every shot.
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own
1. Eiffel Tower
We’re photographers. Of course we’re going to start off this post with one of the most photographed landmarks in the world (cue TikTok voice). Just kidding! In all seriousness though, I absolutely love photographing the iconic Eiffel Tower because there’s more than a hundred different ways you could shoot this magnificent tower. And even though sunrise and sunset are the most popular times to visit, the Eiffel Tower can be captured in all its glory 24/7.
Some of my favorite spots include Trocadéro Gardens, along the Seine River, Rue de l’Université, and on the lower level of the Bir-Hakeim Bridge.
This is hands down of the best Paris photo spots because you’re always bound to find a corner that’s free of people.
2. Along the Seine River
Another amazing photo location is anywhere along the Seine River. The Seine River is a beautiful river that slices through the heart of Paris. Whether you’re relaxing on a boat tour or soaking in the sights on foot, the Seine offers so many different viewpoints of Paris, making it one of the top locations for photography in Paris.
This is where your Instagram will thank you!! Especially if you go early in the morning – you can catch stunning views of the Eiffel Tower without being disturbed by crowds, cars, or strangers.
3. Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Bir-Hakeim Bridge)
Calling all Inception fans to Pont de Bir-Hakeim!! Okay, so even if you’re not an Inception fan – this is still a pretty cool photography spot in Paris (case in point below).
If unfamiliar, Pont de Bir-Hakeim is a two-tiered bridge that connects the 15th and 16th arrondissement, passing through the Île aux Cygnes. Cars, bikes, and pedestrians share the lower level, while the upper level is a viaduct carrying metro line 6 (which is also another amazing place to record cinematic videos from the metro).
I love photographing this bridge or doing a photoshoot underneath it because the texture of the bridge is so unique. The metal really gives it that industrial vibe, which is a stark contrast to the surrounding romance and elegance of Paris. Plus, it’s rare to visit an actual movie set these days since everything is filmed with CGI now.
4. Typical Parisian Café
What do you think of when you hear the word “Paris”? For me, my mind immediately goes to charming cafés lining the streets, red awnings, and wicker chairs with small ashtrays on top. I also immediately think of delicious wine but we can talk about that some other day – or you can check out my guide to visiting Alsace for more details on this picturesque wine region in France!
Parisian cafés are like living postcards – which is why they make for the perfect photography setting. I feel like the Instagram algorithm loves a good quintessential Parisian cafe – and with so many cafés to choose from, it can be hard to pick which one to visit. Some of my favorite cafés include Le Voltigeur, La Maison Rose, and Aux Tours de Notre Dame (across from the Notre Dame Cathedral).
5. Montmartre Metro Station: Lamarck–Caulaincourt
Okay so you’re probably thinking why on earth would a random subway station be included on this list? Well, if you’re a fan of Amélie, then this station won’t be as random to you as it might be to others!
Perhaps the most famous metro entrance in Paris, Lamarck – Caulaincourt sits at the foot of Montmartre, placing you right at the base of the romantic action.
Once a haven for artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, Montmartre’s cobbled streets and quaint squares offer a glimpse into the historic and bohemian side of Paris. Perched on a hill in Paris’ 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is a captivating blend of history, art, and charm. Believe it or not, there’s even a not-so-secret vineyard, Vigne du Clos Montmartre, perched at the top of the hill!
Unlike most photo locations where sunrise is the best time to visit, I highly recommend checking out the Lamarck–Caulaincourt Metro stop during the early afternoon (1-3pm). Since it’s an actual subway station, it’s best to avoid the area during actual rush hour.
6. Sacré-Coeur Basilica
Forget Buckingham Palace, Montmartre’s true gem is the magnificent Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Perched atop Montmartre, boasts breathtaking city views from its dome, making it a must-visit for photographers and sightseers alike.
Insider Tip – On busy days, make your way over to nearby Square de la Turlure to avoid the crowds. It’s located only a few steps away from the Basilica but it’s a lot more quiet.
I visited during winter but the locals told me that the garden is absolutely stunning during spring! The grass was still green when I went but I can only imagine how beautiful it would be during spring or summer when the flowers are in bloom!
7. La Maison Rose
Nestled in the heart of Montmartre, La Maison Rose is another standout location in this neighborhood (I swear – I’m almost done with photo spots in this area).
La Maison Rose, literally translating to “The Pink House,” is a charming restaurant in Montmartre known for its bubblegum facade and artistic history. This vibrant landmark and photography spot is the epitome of Parisian pink perfection!
Insider Tip – As always, try to get here early in the morning to avoid crowds. I would recommend coming a few minutes before they open and then grabbing a bite to eat at the tables outside for the full experience.
8. Le Consulat
Annnnnd just around the corner from La Maison Rose is Le Consulat, a charming cafe in Montmartre.
Ps. I know all of these spots are in Montmartre but I promise I’m doing you a favor by not making you run from one place to another across the entire city of Paris! You’ll be thanking me for saving you money on the Metro!
This beloved spot boasts a rich legacy, having served as a gathering place for famed artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Le Consulat offers both indoor seating and charming outdoor tables lining the cobblestone lane – perfect for photography, people-watching, and soaking in the Parisian atmosphere.
9. Moulin Rouge
I’m probably going to date myself by saying that Moulin Rouge was one of my favorite movies growing up (I was 10 years old when this movie came out so you can do the math for yourselves) and its still as iconic as it was since first opening in 1889.
Moulin Rouge is a total Instagram-worthy spot due to its vibrant red exterior, dazzling lights, and rich history.
Insider Tip – For the most iconic Moulin Rouge shot, ditch the daytime snaps and wait for nightfall in order to capture the most dazzling photos.
10. Louvre
I won’t spend a ton of time on the next two places because you’re probably already familiar with The Louvre and Palais Royal. Both of these places usually appear on every list out there so I’ll be brief.
The Louvre, both a palace and a museum in Paris, is the world’s largest art museum. While the inside is beautiful and full of history, we’re mostly going to talk about the outside today.
You can experiment here with a ton of different angles at The Louvre, but I think the best shot has to be from the courtyard directly in front of the pyramid.
Insider Tip – What’s the best day to visit? Hands down on Tuesdays when the museum is closed. If you come right before sunrise, you’re bound to have the whole place to yourself and will be able to capture the morning light reflecting off of the glass.
11. Palais Royal
The final Paris photography spot on the list is Palais Royal – a magnificent 17th century complex in the heart of the city best known for its elegant gardens, sparkling fountains, and eye-catching black and white striped columns.
Whether you’re acting as the subject of the shot or the one behind the lens – Palais Royal is easily one of the best places in Paris to get creative and have some fun with the pinstripe columns and surrounding fountains!
BEAUTIFUL PHOTO SPOTS IN PARIS: FINAL THOUGHTS
Look, you probably didn’t need to read this blog post to realize that every corner in Paris can be turned into a stunning shot. There’s no shortage of beautiful photo locations inside every arrondissement. Whether you’re visiting as an amateur photographer, a social media influencer, or a professional – you’re guaranteed to capture the true essence of Paris in any shot.
Did you get a chance to check out any of these photo spots in Paris? Let me know in the comments below!
VISITING OTHER PARTS OF FRANCE?
Check out all my travel guides on France here.
VISITING OTHER PARTS OF EUROPE?
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
LOOKING FOR TRAVEL INSPIRATION TO SOMEWHERE ELSE?
Paris, the City of Lights, is every photographer’s dream. Between the Eiffel Tower practically posing for you at sunset and the sheer number of adorable cafés lining the streets – you’re guaranteed to leave this city with a new perspective and an overflowing camera roll. You can forget packing light on clothes, you’ll need all the space for photos instead!
So get ready to pack your camera bags and join me on a whirlwind adventure through Paris’ most beautiful photo spots. We’ll chase iconic landmarks at golden hour, discover secret alleys, and capture the essence of Parisian life (like an insider) with every shot.
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own
1. Eiffel Tower
We’re photographers. Of course we’re going to start off this post with one of the most photographed landmarks in the world (cue TikTok voice). Just kidding! In all seriousness though, I absolutely love photographing the iconic Eiffel Tower because there’s more than a hundred different ways you could shoot this magnificent tower. And even though sunrise and sunset are the most popular times to visit, the Eiffel Tower can be captured in all its glory 24/7.
Some of my favorite spots include Trocadéro Gardens, along the Seine River, Rue de l’Université, and on the lower level of the Bir-Hakeim Bridge.
This is hands down of the best Paris photo spots because you’re always bound to find a corner that’s free of people.
2. Along the Seine River
Another amazing photo location is anywhere along the Seine River. The Seine River is a beautiful river that slices through the heart of Paris. Whether you’re relaxing on a boat tour or soaking in the sights on foot, the Seine offers so many different viewpoints of Paris, making it one of the top locations for photography in Paris.
This is where your Instagram will thank you!! Especially if you go early in the morning – you can catch stunning views of the Eiffel Tower without being disturbed by crowds, cars, or strangers.
3. Pont de Bir-Hakeim (Bir-Hakeim Bridge)
Calling all Inception fans to Pont de Bir-Hakeim!! Okay, so even if you’re not an Inception fan – this is still a pretty cool photography spot in Paris (case in point below).
If unfamiliar, Pont de Bir-Hakeim is a two-tiered bridge that connects the 15th and 16th arrondissement, passing through the Île aux Cygnes. Cars, bikes, and pedestrians share the lower level, while the upper level is a viaduct carrying metro line 6 (which is also another amazing place to record cinematic videos from the metro).
I love photographing this bridge or doing a photoshoot underneath it because the texture of the bridge is so unique. The metal really gives it that industrial vibe, which is a stark contrast to the surrounding romance and elegance of Paris. Plus, it’s rare to visit an actual movie set these days since everything is filmed with CGI now.
4. Typical Parisian Café
What do you think of when you hear the word “Paris”? For me, my mind immediately goes to charming cafés lining the streets, red awnings, and wicker chairs with small ashtrays on top. I also immediately think of delicious wine but we can talk about that some other day – or you can check out my guide to visiting Alsace for more details on this picturesque wine region in France!
Parisian cafés are like living postcards – which is why they make for the perfect photography setting. I feel like the Instagram algorithm loves a good quintessential Parisian cafe – and with so many cafés to choose from, it can be hard to pick which one to visit. Some of my favorite cafés include Le Voltigeur, La Maison Rose, and Aux Tours de Notre Dame (across from the Notre Dame Cathedral).
5. Montmartre Metro Station: Lamarck–Caulaincourt
Okay so you’re probably thinking why on earth would a random subway station be included on this list? Well, if you’re a fan of Amélie, then this station won’t be as random to you as it might be to others!
Perhaps the most famous metro entrance in Paris, Lamarck – Caulaincourt sits at the foot of Montmartre, placing you right at the base of the romantic action.
Once a haven for artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, Montmartre’s cobbled streets and quaint squares offer a glimpse into the historic and bohemian side of Paris. Perched on a hill in Paris’ 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is a captivating blend of history, art, and charm. Believe it or not, there’s even a not-so-secret vineyard, Vigne du Clos Montmartre, perched at the top of the hill!
Unlike most photo locations where sunrise is the best time to visit, I highly recommend checking out the Lamarck–Caulaincourt Metro stop during the early afternoon (1-3pm). Since it’s an actual subway station, it’s best to avoid the area during actual rush hour.
6. Sacré-Coeur Basilica
Forget Buckingham Palace, Montmartre’s true gem is the magnificent Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Perched atop Montmartre, boasts breathtaking city views from its dome, making it a must-visit for photographers and sightseers alike.
Insider Tip – On busy days, make your way over to nearby Square de la Turlure to avoid the crowds. It’s located only a few steps away from the Basilica but it’s a lot more quiet.
I visited during winter but the locals told me that the garden is absolutely stunning during spring! The grass was still green when I went but I can only imagine how beautiful it would be during spring or summer when the flowers are in bloom!
7. La Maison Rose
Nestled in the heart of Montmartre, La Maison Rose is another standout location in this neighborhood (I swear – I’m almost done with photo spots in this area).
La Maison Rose, literally translating to “The Pink House,” is a charming restaurant in Montmartre known for its bubblegum facade and artistic history. This vibrant landmark and photography spot is the epitome of Parisian pink perfection!
Insider Tip – As always, try to get here early in the morning to avoid crowds. I would recommend coming a few minutes before they open and then grabbing a bite to eat at the tables outside for the full experience.
8. Le Consulat
Annnnnd just around the corner from La Maison Rose is Le Consulat, a charming cafe in Montmartre.
Ps. I know all of these spots are in Montmartre but I promise I’m doing you a favor by not making you run from one place to another across the entire city of Paris! You’ll be thanking me for saving you money on the Metro!
This beloved spot boasts a rich legacy, having served as a gathering place for famed artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Le Consulat offers both indoor seating and charming outdoor tables lining the cobblestone lane – perfect for photography, people-watching, and soaking in the Parisian atmosphere.
9. Moulin Rouge
I’m probably going to date myself by saying that Moulin Rouge was one of my favorite movies growing up (I was 10 years old when this movie came out so you can do the math for yourselves) and its still as iconic as it was since first opening in 1889.
Moulin Rouge is a total Instagram-worthy spot due to its vibrant red exterior, dazzling lights, and rich history.
Insider Tip – For the most iconic Moulin Rouge shot, ditch the daytime snaps and wait for nightfall in order to capture the most dazzling photos.
10. Louvre
I won’t spend a ton of time on the next two places because you’re probably already familiar with The Louvre and Palais Royal. Both of these places usually appear on every list out there so I’ll be brief.
The Louvre, both a palace and a museum in Paris, is the world’s largest art museum. While the inside is beautiful and full of history, we’re mostly going to talk about the outside today.
You can experiment here with a ton of different angles at The Louvre, but I think the best shot has to be from the courtyard directly in front of the pyramid.
Insider Tip – What’s the best day to visit? Hands down on Tuesdays when the museum is closed. If you come right before sunrise, you’re bound to have the whole place to yourself and will be able to capture the morning light reflecting off of the glass.
11. Palais Royal
The final Paris photography spot on the list is Palais Royal – a magnificent 17th century complex in the heart of the city best known for its elegant gardens, sparkling fountains, and eye-catching black and white striped columns.
Whether you’re acting as the subject of the shot or the one behind the lens – Palais Royal is easily one of the best places in Paris to get creative and have some fun with the pinstripe columns and surrounding fountains!
BEAUTIFUL PHOTO SPOTS IN PARIS: FINAL THOUGHTS
Look, you probably didn’t need to read this blog post to realize that every corner in Paris can be turned into a stunning shot. There’s no shortage of beautiful photo locations inside every arrondissement. Whether you’re visiting as an amateur photographer, a social media influencer, or a professional – you’re guaranteed to capture the true essence of Paris in any shot.
Did you get a chance to check out any of these photo spots in Paris? Let me know in the comments below!
VISITING OTHER PARTS OF FRANCE?
Check out all my travel guides on France here.
VISITING OTHER PARTS OF EUROPE?
Check out my other travel guides on Europe here.
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