Let’s be real for a second: we all love the Eiffel Tower. It’s iconic, it’s sparkly, and it’s the reason half of us booked a flight to France in the first place. But if your entire Instagram feed is just different angles of the Iron Lady, your followers are going to start yawning. Paris is a city of layers, textures, and hidden corners that scream "chic" without trying too hard.
As part of our 30-day iconic locations series here at Photoguides, I’m taking you beyond the Trocadéro. Whether you’re a pro looking for the best photography locations or a traveler just trying to up your social media game, I’ve got you covered. Grab your camera, and maybe a croissant, and let’s dive into the most instagrammable places in Paris that don't involve a giant metal lattice.
1. The Louvre (But Make it Modern)
The Louvre is the world’s largest art museum, but the real masterpiece for photographers is outside. The contrast between the 19th-century French Renaissance architecture and the ultra-modern glass pyramids is a dream for composition.
Travel photography tips: To beat the crowds, you’ve got to be an early bird. I’m talking 8:00 AM. If you show up at noon, you’ll just be photographing a sea of selfie sticks. Pro tip: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. While you can't go inside, the courtyard is often much quieter, making it the perfect time for those wide-angle shots. If you're looking to upgrade your kit before the trip, check out our camera reviews 2024 to see what’s performing best in low-light architectural settings.
2. Jardin du Palais Royal
Just a stone's throw from the Louvre is the Jardin du Palais Royal. This isn't your average garden. It’s home to "Les Deux Plateaux" (more commonly known as the Buren Columns), those black-and-white striped stumps of varying heights.
It’s high-fashion, it’s graphic, and it’s one of the most instagrammable places in the city. You can stand on them, sit on them, or use them for leading lines. After you’ve nailed the shot, pop into Café Kitsuné for a latte. It’s a vibe. If you want to see how Edin Chavez captures these high-contrast urban scenes, head over to Edin Chavez’s Blog for some inspiration.
3. Galeries Lafayette Rooftop Terrace
Want that classic Parisian skyline without paying for an expensive rooftop bar? The 8th floor of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann has a free rooftop terrace that offers 360-degree views of the city. You get a stunning look at the Opéra Garnier, the Sacré-Cœur, and yes, you can see the Eiffel Tower in the distance, but the focus here is the urban sprawl.
It’s open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but golden hour is when the magic happens. The way the light hits the zinc roofs of Paris is something you have to see to believe. It’s reassuring to know that some of the best views in the world don’t cost a single Euro.
4. The Grand Mosque of Paris (Grande Mosquée de Paris)
This is a true hidden gem. Located in the Latin Quarter, the Grand Mosque is an architectural marvel of neo-Moghreb style. We’re talking intricate mosaics, turquoise tiles, and a courtyard that feels like you’ve been transported to Morocco.
If you visit in April, the wisteria is in full bloom, draping purple flowers over the white arches. It’s incredibly peaceful. For just €3, you get access to some of the most unique textures in the city. Just remember to be respectful, this is a place of worship. If you're planning your daily itinerary, you can find some great activity recommendations and tours on Viator to help navigate the different arrondissements.
5. Galerie Vivienne
If you’re looking for "Old World Paris," the covered passages are where it’s at. Galerie Vivienne is the most beautiful of them all. Built in 1823, it features stunning mosaic floors, a glass roof that lets in soft, diffused light, and quaint shops.
It’s a perfect spot for those moody, cinematic shots. Look for the old bookstore with windows piled high with yellowed pages, it makes for a fantastic neutral background. For those of you looking to perfect your post-processing for these indoor shots, you might want to download some sky overlays to fix any blown-out highlights from the glass ceilings.
6. Montmartre’s Hilly Streets
Montmartre is the soul of the Parisian art scene. While everyone flocks to the front of the Sacré-Cœur, the real gems are in the winding side streets.
Look for La Maison Rose (the famous pink house) or the "Sinking House" (a clever camera tilt trick near the steps of the basilica). The cobblestones and ivy-covered walls offer a romantic, bohemian aesthetic that you just can’t find anywhere else. For more tips on capturing the essence of a neighborhood, Edin's fine art gallery at Edin Fine Art shows how to turn a simple street scene into a work of art.
7. Medici Fountain in Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens are massive, but the Medici Fountain is its most photogenic resident. Built in 1630, this long stone basin is surrounded by trees that create a natural canopy.
The reflection of the statues in the still water is a dream for photographers focusing on symmetry. It’s one of the best photography locations for a quiet, romantic portrait. I recommend bringing a tripod if you’re there early in the morning to get that silky-smooth water reflection. Need gear advice? We have a full guide on essential photography gear that won't weigh you down while walking the 6th Arrondissement.
8. Terrasse de l'Alcazar
Let’s talk interiors. Sometimes the weather in Paris doesn't cooperate (it's part of the charm, right?), and you need a gorgeous indoor spot. Terrasse de l'Alcazar is a restaurant that looks like a lush indoor jungle.
With a massive skylight, the natural lighting is impeccable even on a rainy day. The balcony overlooks the main dining room, giving you a great perspective for lifestyle shots. Plus, if you’re there in the evening, they often have drag performances, which adds a whole new layer of energy to your photos. It’s witty, it’s fun, and it’s very Paris.
9. Perruche Rooftop Restaurant
Located on top of Printemps Haussmann, Perruche feels like a garden in the sky. It’s got a 500m² terrace filled with exotic plants, yellow-striped cushions, and a very "South of France" vibe right in the heart of the city.
The framing here is top-notch. You can use the greenery to frame the skyline, creating a depth of field that makes your photos pop. It’s a bit more upscale, so it’s a great place to dress up and take those high-end lifestyle images. If you’re traveling on a budget, don't worry, we’ve got a list of cheap weekend getaways that feel just as luxurious.
10. The Arc de Triomphe from Avenue de la Grande Armée
The Champs-Élysées is great for shopping, but for the best photo of the Arc de Triomphe, head to the opposite side on Avenue de la Grande Armée. It’s often less crowded and gives you a much straighter shot of the monument.
Travel photography tips: Try a long exposure at night to get the light trails from the cars circling the Arc. It creates a sense of motion that really captures the "City of Light." If you're new to this technique, our educational category has plenty of tutorials to get you started.
Making the Most of Your Paris Photo Trip
Paris is a city that rewards the curious. While the big landmarks are great, the real magic happens when you turn down a random alleyway or step into a quiet garden.
Before you head out, make sure your gear is ready. There’s nothing worse than a dead battery when the light is hitting the Louvre just right. If you’re looking to turn your travel photos into a professional portfolio, consider our photography booking experience for a guided session that ensures you get the shots you've always dreamed of.
And hey, if you do end up taking a photo of the Eiffel Tower, don't sweat it. We all do. Just make sure these other 10 spots are on your list so your feed is as diverse and beautiful as Paris itself. For more travel inspiration and curated tours to these exact spots, check out the latest deals on Viator.
Happy shooting, and remember: the best camera is the one you have with you, but a little planning goes a long way!
