I See Paris, I See France….How to Get the Perfect Birds Eye View of the City of Lights

Vacationing in Paris and want to see as much of the City of Lights as you can? Paris was the world’s number one tourist destination in 2013, so finding something off the beaten path is the best way to see everything Paris has to offer. Since Americans only have on average 16 days of vacation per year, it is important to make them count! Be sure to visit these different locations all throughout the city to find the most breathtaking views in the entire world!
 
Arc de Triomphe
Even though this is one of the most iconic Parisian landmarks, many don’t know that you can climb to the top! Located in the Place Charles de Gaulle — the largest traffic circle in Paris — visiting the Arc itself can seem quite challenging as you have to find the best way to get across 12 lanes of traffic!
 
Ne t’inquiète pas- the French have built a tunnel connecting visitors, and once you’ve explored the Arc from below, get ready to climb the 280 stairs to the top! Once up there, you’ll be able to see the booming Champs-Élysées, the Sacre Coeur Basilica, the Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower.
 
Pro Tip: Make sure to walk the entire roof so you can see Paris from all angles, as the roads around the Arc de Triomphe form a star and lead in 12 directions!
 
Sacred Coeur
Located in the Montmartre district, the Sacre Coeur is a necessity for any trip to Paris not only for its three gorgeous white domes but for its stunning views of the city. As Montmartre is located on winding hills, this is the highest location in Paris and will truly make you feel as if you are on top of the world.
 
Sunset is a beautiful time to go; you’ll be able to see the twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower when the city comes alive at night.
 
Pro Tip: Tired from a day of shopping in Paris? The ever thoughtful Parisians have installed the Montmartre Funicular, a little car that will take you up to the church, saving you the hassle of climbing all those stairs!
 
The Grande Roue
This Ferris Wheel in the center of Place de la Concorde is a perfect option if you are traveling with kids! Standing at 214 feet tall, this ride will give you incredible views of all the Parisian must-sees, including the most visited museum in the world — the Louvre. A must see for any trip to Paris!
 
Pro Tip: Bring a picnic lunch to eat in the adjacent Tuileries Garden after your thrill ride!
 
Notre Dame
No vacation in Paris is complete without trying to find the Hunchback of Notre Dame! After attending mass downstairs, start climbing this 853-year-old cathedral to see how the River Seine sparkles from the sky.
 
Pro tip: Bring your selfie stick to snap some selfies with the gargoyles that await you!
 
The City of Lights is even more gorgeous from above, so be sure to make your trip to Paris unforgettable by visiting these landmarks and taking their beautiful views home with you!