Ultimate Guide to the Best Eiffel Tower Photo Spots: Hidden Gems & Iconic Views

The Eiffel Tower has so many classic photo spots that it took me three trips to Paris to barely put together a collection (though there are still many great spots I haven’t managed to visit). Below is a summary for reference:

[一R] **Trocadéro Gardens Plaza (Figs. 1-2)**: This spot offers a perfectly centered view of the Eiffel Tower. The plaza is a great place to relax, with various snacks available. To capture the effect in Fig. 1, you’ll need to climb onto the corner of the wall, while the photographer shoots upward from the stairs below. The wall is quite high, so be cautious, but the edge slopes inward, making it relatively safe.

[二R] **L’Howea Flower Shop & Surroundings (Figs. 3-4)**: This is another highly recommended spot on social media. The flower shop is located at a street corner, and you can buy a bouquet for photos, though it’s a bit pricey and not very convenient to carry around. A short walk ahead, there’s a row of open-air restaurants. Dining at one of them will give you the angle shown in Fig. 4, with a romantic atmosphere 🌹.

[三R] **Bateau Boréas (Figs. 5-11)**: This spot is on the opposite bank of the Seine, facing the Eiffel Tower. The area—whether the riverside steps, walls, or bridges—is incredibly photogenic. I’ve visited during the day and at dusk, and both times have their unique charm, but my personal favorite is the blue hour.

[四R] **Jardins du Trocadéro (Fig. 12)**: This spot is right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower (you can also search for “Eiffel Tower” on the map). ⚠️ Note: There seems to be only one public restroom in the park, and it’s an automated smart toilet that cleans itself after each use before opening for the next person. Even if the line looks short, the wait can be long—we waited nearly two hours. Think twice if you need to go 😅.

[五R] **Rue de l’Université (Fig. 13)**: I passed this spot on the way to the Eiffel Tower. The tower peeks through the trees and classic French architecture, like a preview before the main event 😂.

[六R] **Pont d’Iéna (Fig. 14)**: This bridge is directly under the Eiffel Tower and can be reached on foot from Bateau Boréas. When I visited, the Olympic rings were still hanging on the tower.

[七R] **Night Cruise (Fig. 15)**: This one speaks for itself—a shot taken during a Seine River cruise. We chose Bateaux Parisiens, which boards at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. Tickets can be booked online for around 52 RMB per person.

If I get the chance to visit Paris again and check out more spots, I’ll update this note 😂.

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16 comments

  1. The way the article highlights the Trocadéro’s central view makes me want to try capturing it from the wall corner. It’s easy to overlook these quiet spots amid the crowd. A nice mix of well-known and under-the-radar angles.

  2. The Trocadéro Gardens offer a classic shot, but the wall corner gives a fresh angle. It’s smart to mix well-known spots with hidden ones. Capturing that view takes a bit of effort, but it’s worth it. Some places still need a visit.