No need to book a table or dine to admire Paris from above. The City of Light offers numerous viewpoints with free access or budget-friendly rates, perfect for taking in the capital’s rooftops, monuments, and sunsets without breaking the bank.
Among the must-sees, some public spaces let you enjoy an unobstructed view in a peaceful setting. This is the case of the Belleville Park, whose belvédère affords an impressive panorama of eastern Paris and the Eiffel Tower. Another traveler favorite is the rooftop terrace of the Arab World Institute, freely accessible and offering a direct view of the Seine and Notre-Dame.
Other spots, such as certain department-store terraces or elevated esplanades, also let you get a higher view without any obligation to buy. These spaces, sometimes off the radar, are perfect for a quiet pause, a moment of contemplation, or an urban stroll that takes you right up among the clouds.
So, whether you're here to watch a sunset, snap some photos, or simply catch your breath, around here you'll find points de vue hauts perchés, far from the bustle and with no budget constraints!
Saint-Jacques Tower, the former bell tower and its sublime view over Paris, currently under renovation.
Saint-Jacques Tower, with its panoramic views over all of Paris, is normally open to visitors from May to November, but this year renovations prevent us from visiting it. Located just a stone’s throw from the City Hall, the historic monument is a must-see, standing 62 meters tall with 300 steps. [Read more]
Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA): program, exhibitions, events, everything you need to know about this cultural center
The Institut du Monde Arabe is an astonishing place where Arab culture reveals itself to us through astonishing exhibitions and an eclectic program of events for all ages and all audiences! [Read more]
The Dome of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica: the view from the Butte Montmartre, practical information
Dominating Paris from the Butte Montmartre, the Sacré-Coeur dome offers one of the capital's most spectacular panoramas. A spiritual and architectural symbol, it is as captivating for its history as it is for the 360° view it affords visitors ready to climb its 300 steps. [Read more]
The Printemps Haussmann 2025 summer terrace overlooking Paris and the Eiffel Tower
The terrace at Printemps Haussmann goes into glamorous picnic mode and gets a golden makeover thanks to Veuve Clicquot. From May 5 to September 30, 2025, head for the 7ème Ciel spot, perched atop the Femme store, to toast the sun, head in the clouds and eyes riveted on the Eiffel Tower. Panoramic views, iconic bubbles and French art de vivre: summer promises to be chic, fresh and effervescent at the top of Paris! [Read more]
Bonus in Paris: Galeries Lafayette rooftop, a high viewpoint accessible free of charge
Want to get some height? A superb panorama of the capital is available free of charge in the Haussmann district. To discover it, head to one of Paris's iconic department stores, Galeries Lafayette, to enjoy a breathtaking view of Paris from its rooftop... and it's free! [Read more]
Free rooftop, the Philharmonie Belvedere once again accessible with its exceptional view
Fancy a free rooftop? Head for the roof of the Philharmonie de Paris, overlooking the Parc de la Villette, which is once again open to us, from April to October, Wednesday to Sunday. This is your chance to enjoy a 360° view without paying a penny. [Read more]
The panoramic view of the Paris Pantheon is back, free for under-26s.
Visiting the Pantheon is one thing, but did you know you could also visit its colonnades and discover a sublime panorama of Paris? From April to October, the Pantheon exceptionally opens its rooftop to visitors to admire the rooftops of Paname and the Eiffel Tower. [Read more]
The Mont Valérien crypt (92): free visits to the memorial to fighting France
Located on the summit of Mont-Valérien, the Mémorial de la France Combattante houses a crypt containing the remains of 16 Second World War combatants and ashes collected from concentration camps. Free guided tours invite you to (re)discover the history of this place where many hostages and resistance fighters were executed. [Read more]
Sacré-Cœur de Paris, the must-see basilica atop Montmartre hill
The Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is one of Paris's must-see monuments. But how much do you know about its history and treasures? We'll take you on a tour of this edifice perched atop the Butte Montmartre, and take a look at what's happening there at the moment! [Read more]
Belleville Park, a green bubble on a hillside in the 20th arrondissement
In the Ménilmontant district, right in the heart of Belleville's Chinatown, you could almost miss the eponymous park, so hidden is it that it's almost a secret. So we're taking you to discover it with us! [Read more]
The Oz Rooftop Café on the roof of La Cité de La Mode et du Design
The Cité de la Mode et du Design offers us a nice terrace of the Australian brand Café Oz. Let's discover the Café Oz Rooftop! [Read more]
You can see the locations of all these addresses by clicking the map at the bottom of the article
Prices
Free
