Amazing Instagram Places in PARIS for the Best Photos

Paris is one of the most photogenic cities in the entire world. Every time I visit, I end up stopping all the time to take photos of quiet side streets, cute cafes, beautiful bridges, and those classic Parisian views. Of course, the city has its famous landmarks, but there are also plenty of hidden gems that look amazing in photos. In this post, I will share my favorite Instagram places in Paris and give you tips on when to visit each place for the best photos in this beautiful city of lights!

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 🌟 Check out 4 Days Paris Itinerary: How to Spend the Perfect Time blog post!

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30 Best Instagram Places in Paris

Paris is full of beautiful corners, and if you love taking photos, you’ll find everything from the most Instagrammable places to quieter hidden gems around the city. In this post, I’ll share my favorite places for photos in Paris, from iconic landmarks to lesser-known but still great photo spots that are absolutely worth checking out.

1. Palais Royal

The black-and-white art installation made up of striped columns in the courtyard is one of the best spots in Paris for playful, symmetrical photos. Best time to go is early in the morning, I got there around 8am and had the whole courtyard almost to myself, which made taking photos so much easier.

2. Palais Garnier

This stunning opera house is one of the most beautiful places in Paris, both inside and out. My favorite spots here are the grand staircase and the Grand Foyer. If you want the best shots, this is where you should go. 

The Grand Foyer is really impressive. It has gilded moldings, crystal chandeliers, and ceiling frescoes. The design was inspired by the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles. In the past, Parisian high society used to gather here during intermissions. When you visit, take your time and look at all the details. The symmetry, marble, and gold touches make it one of the most photogenic spots in this beautiful building.

TIP: The Palais Garnier closes to the public at 5pm. I booked tickets for 3pm, and by 4:30pm it was almost empty. It was so much easier to take photos without the crowds.

3. Glass Pyramids at the Louvre Museum

Musée du Louvre is one of the most visited and the largest art museums in the world. It’s home to the Mona Lisa, but the glass pyramid outside in the main courtyard is just as iconic. If you love taking photos, this spot is a must.

I recommend visiting early in the morning, around sunrise. The light is much softer at that time and there are barely any people around. You can take some amazing photos without having to worry about crowds.

4. Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) 

The Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) is one of the most beautiful libraries in Paris. The Oval Reading Room is the star here. It has a stunning circular design, soft light, and a peaceful vibe. If you love architecture or photography, you will love this place. It’s much quieter than the big tourist spots and really feels like a hidden gem.

5. Maison Revka Restaurant

Maison Revka feels more like a beautiful home than a restaurant. The atmosphere is elegant but still warm and welcoming. There are several rooms, each with its own vibe.

My favorite area is the garden patio, full of natural light with flowers, ivy, and lanterns. It’s the most photogenic part of the restaurant and perfect if you love taking photos. Every corner is carefully designed, so you’ll find yourself snapping pictures without even trying.

6. Place du Trocadero

Place du Trocadéro is one of the most famous spots in Paris for seeing the Eiffel Tower. You’ve probably seen many photos taken from here. The terrace is right across from the tower and it’s the best place for those wide, classic Paris photos.

It gets very crowded, so I suggest coming here early morning if you want photos without too many people. From here, you can also get shots of the Eiffel Tower with the fountains and gardens below, which makes your photos look even better.

7. Moulin Rouge

While you can’t take photos or videos inside during the show, the Moulin Rouge building is one of the most recognizable places in Paris. The bright red windmill, the bold signs, and all the glowing lights looks pretty after dark.

I recommend coming here after sunset, when the lights are on and the whole Montmartre area feels full of energy. Even if you don’t go inside for a show, it’s worth stopping by to take some photos and enjoy the vibe of one of Paris’s most famous landmarks.

8. Sacre Coeur Basilica

Located at one of the highest points in Paris, Sacré-Cœur Basilica is the perfect place for a beautiful view. From the front of the basilica, you get wide city views that stretch across Paris, which is why the steps are such a popular spot.

That said, the steps can get very crowded, especially later in the day. For calmer photo opportunities, I recommend wandering the side streets around Montmartre, where you’ll find quieter corners, charming staircases, and angles that feel much more relaxed and local.

9. Galerie Dior

I was honestly surprised by how beautiful the Dior Galerie is. Every room is thoughtfully designed and the whole place feels immersive from the moment you walk in. The highlight for me was the spiral staircase. It’s incredibly photogenic and, in my opinion, one of the best interior photo spots in Paris.

It doesn’t feel like a traditional museum at all. It’s more like a curated experience, so even if you’re not into fashion, I think you’ll still enjoy visiting.

10. La Maison Rose

La Maison Rose has become very popular on social media and is now one of the most recognizable buildings in Montmartre. Which is why I am adding this to the list of most instagrammable spots in Paris. This pink house sits quietly on a corner and feels charming, timeless, and truly Parisian.

No matter where you stand, this pink building looks great in photos. You can take a wide shot of the street or focus on the pastel details. I recommend visiting early in the day, before the tour groups arrive. This way, you can enjoy the place in peace and take better photos.

11. Rue de l’Abreuvoir

Rue de l’Abreuvoir is one of the prettiest cobblestone streets in Paris, with pastel houses and that classic Parisian vibe. It’s actually on the same street as La Maison Rose, so you just have to walk downhill to find it. This street looks like it belongs in a movie, and it’s one of my favorite side streets for taking photos.

If you visit in the morning, you’ll find the street quiet and the light really soft, which makes it even more beautiful. Every corner is photogenic here, so take your time and enjoy the walk.

12. Le Consulat

Just a short walk is Le Consulat. This is a classic Montmartre café with red awnings and old-school Paris vibes. Again, thanks to social media, it has become a popular instagram spot, but it still feels very local and captures the everyday charm that makes Montmartre special.

If you’re exploring Montmartre, it’s an easy stop, especially if you’re already out taking photos. The best part is the exterior, which really captures that authentic Paris street vibe. I recommend stopping here for a quick photo, and if you have time, grab a seat at the cafe and enjoy the atmosphere.

13. Champ de Mars

Champ de Mars is one of the most iconic Instagram Places in Paris. If you want those classic wide shots of the Eiffel Tower (aka the Iron Lady), this is the spot. The long green lawn gives you a clean background and lots of space to try different angles and distances.

I recommend coming here early morning if you want photos without crowds. In the evening, you can also catch the Eiffel Tower sparkling, which is a beautiful sight.

Google Coordinates for Champ de Mars: 48.8559, 2.2986

14. Rue de l’Université

Rue de l’Université is famous for having one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, framed perfectly between classic Parisian buildings. It’s a popular spot and the view really does look like a Paris postcard.

This street gets busy during the day, so I suggest coming early in the morning. When it’s quiet, you can get clean shots without cars or crowds in the background.

Google Coordiantes for Rue de L’universite: 48.86112, 2.31403

15. Pont Alexandre III

Pont Alexandre III is one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris. It has ornate lampposts, golden statues, and amazing views of the Seine. You can also see the Grand Palais from here. It’s a great spot if you want elegant and cinematic photos.

This bridge looks beautiful both during the day and at golden hour, when the light makes all the details stand out.

Google Coordinates for Pont Alexandre III: 48.8630, 2.3130

16. Av. de New York

Avenue de New York runs along the Seine and offers beautiful, open views of the Eiffel Tower from street level. It’s a great spot if you want photos with the river in the foreground and the tower framed more naturally, without the crowds you’ll find at nearby viewpoints.

Google Corrdinates for Av. de New York: 48.86269, 2.29421

17. Avenue de Camoëns

Avenue de Camoëns is a small and quiet street with a great view of the Eiffel Tower. Unlike the crowded photo spots nearby, this place is much less busy. It really feels like a hidden gem, so if you want a calm spot that doesn’t feel staged, this is the place to go.

The steps and classic architecture give this street a lot of charm. You can easily spend some time here, trying out different angles for your photos or just enjoying the view.

Google Coordinates for Avenue de Camoens: 48.85977, 2.28606

18. Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

Located near the Louvre, the Triomphe du Carrousel is a smaller, often overlooked arch that makes a great photo stop with fewer people. It sits between the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens and offers a beautiful, balanced backdrop for photos without the heavy crowds found at larger landmarks.

This spacious square, once the site of a 16th-century palace, offers views of iconic buildings.

19. Metro Line 6 (Eiffel Tower Views)

If you want Eiffel Tower views from the metro, metro line 6 is the best option in Paris. It runs above ground for part of the route and crosses the Seine between Bir-Hakeim and Passy metro station, offering some of the best views from public transport.

To get the best view, you need to sit on the correct side of the train: If you’re traveling toward Nation, sit on the left side facing forward. If you’re heading toward Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, sit on the right side facing forward.

You’ll see the Eiffel Tower between these this metro stop in both directions, so either way works, just grab a window seat and enjoy the view.

20. De Vino Restaurant

De Vino is a great place for lunch if you want to combine food with great photos. The restaurant is on a corner and has outdoor tables right on Av. d’Eylau. You get a clear view of the Eiffel Tower from here, so it’s definitely an Instagram place in Paris for photos.

If you want the best table, come close to when they open. You’ll have a better chance to choose the best table (last one) and get the perfect view before it gets busy. It’s a relaxed place where you can enjoy your lunch and take that classic Paris photo at the same time.

21. Printemps Haussmann Rooftop

The Printemps Haussmann rooftop is now one of my favorite and the best photo spots for rooftop views in Paris. It still feels like a hidden gem. While most people go to the Galeries Lafayette rooftop, this one is often much quieter and just as beautiful.

From the top, you get amazing views over the Paris rooftops, and you can see the Eiffel Tower in the distance. Some parts of the rooftop light up in different colors at night, which looks really nice.

To get there, just take the elevator to the 7th floor and follow the signs to the rooftop terrace. It’s free to visit, and if you want great rooftop photos without the crowds, this is the place to go.

22. Hôtel de la Marine

Hôtel de la Marine is a beautiful neoclassical palace right on Place de la Concorde. The interiors have been restored and feel like a quiet, elegant hidden gem in the center of Paris. The palace was built in the 18th century and now it is a museum with impressive state rooms and period décor.

One of the best parts is the outdoor balcony and loggia. From here, you get great views over the square, and you can even spot the Eiffel Tower in the distance. If you like taking photos, this is a spot you should not miss. 

Entrance to the museum is €17

23. Galeries Lafayette Haussmann Rooftop

The rooftop at Galeries Lafayette is probably the most famous rooftop in Paris, and it really lives up to the hype. You get amazing panoramic views of the city and it’s the perfect spot for those classic Paris photos. To visit, just go inside the department store, take the elevator all the way up, and follow the signs to the terrace. The best part is that it’s free and open to everyone. It does get very crowded.

24. Francette Restaurant Rooftop

We had dinner at Francette Restaurant Rooftop, and if you’re looking for one of the closest Eiffel Tower views you can get while dining, this is it. The rooftop is right on the Seine, just across from the tower. It’s one of the top spots for dinner and photos in the city.

Be sure to book a table on the rooftop. The view is amazing, especially at sunset or after dark when the Eiffel Tower lights up. It’s a spot you won’t forget, and it’s perfect if you want to enjoy dinner and take a beautiful shot.

25. Petit Palais

Petit Palais is one of those places in Paris that most people miss, but I think it’s absolutely worth a visit. The building itself is stunning, with elegant architecture and a peaceful courtyard where you can take beautiful photos without the crowds. Plus, you can enter for free, which is always a bonus.

26. Le Vrai Paris Cafe

Le Vrai Paris is a classic Montmartre café and has one of the prettiest exteriors in the area. The outside is covered in flowers, and the small tables along the street are perfect if you want to sit and watch Paris go by. It’s a great spot for relaxed, everyday Paris photos. The place feels effortlessly charming and doesn’t feel overdone, so it’s perfect if you want to experience a real Parisian vibe.

27. Place Vendôme

Place Vendôme is famous for its elegant vibe and luxury feel. The square is full of designer shops and the iconic Ritz Paris is right in the middle. If you visit during Christmas, the lights and decorations make it even more beautiful and photogenic. This is a great place for polished, high-end photos that feel classic and very Parisian.

28. Pink Mamma Restaurant

Pink Mamma is a four-story Italian restaurant where climbing the staircase is part of the experience. Each floor has a different vibe, from cozy dining rooms to bright, open spaces. The top floor is my favorite, with a glass ceiling and lots of plants. It looks especially beautiful during the day.

The restaurant is lively and has several floors, with ivy-covered walls and a stunning glass roof that offers nice views of the city. I recommend making a reservation because it gets busy.

29. Jardin du Luxembourg

Jardin du Luxembourg is one of my favorite places to relax in Paris. If you want classic Parisian photos, this is the spot. The green chairs, fountains, and the view of the Luxembourg Palace make it feel calm and timeless.

30. Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, located at the top of the Champs-Élysées. If you don’t mind paying a bit extra, you can climb to the top for some of the best views in the city. From up there, you get a panoramic look at Paris and a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. It’s a great spot for wide, dramatic photos, so if you love taking pictures, make sure to add this to your list.

Best Instagram-Worthy Hotels in Paris

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

This hotel is known for its red awnings and Eiffel Tower views. Hôtel Plaza Athénée is one of the most photographed in Paris.

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel

Hotel de Crillon is a luxurious palace hotel with elegant interiors and a beautiful facade overlooking Place de la Concorde.

Shangri‑La Paris

Shangri‑La Paris is one of the best places for capturing Eiffel Tower views from balconies.

Ritz Paris

Located on Place Vendôme, Ritz Paris is one of the most iconic luxury hotels in the city. 

Tips for Getting the Best Photos in Paris

• Early morning is always best for popular spots
• Use Google Maps to save exact locations
• Walk a little off main streets for quieter angles
• Consider the time of year for light and crowds
• Be patient — sometimes waiting a few minutes gets the perfect shot

Final Thoughts

Paris truly earns its reputation as the city of love and the city of lights. Whether you’re photographing famous landmarks, quiet streets, or elegant cafés, these Instagram Places in Paris offer endless inspiration.

If it’s your first time visiting or even your fifth, focusing on a mix of iconic and hidden spots will give you the most variety — and the most memorable photos.

Travel Tips/Things to Know Before Visiting Paris

Paris is one of the most magical cities in the world—but like any major destination, it helps to arrive with the right mindset and some preparation. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning again, these tips will help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

Make sure to set realistic expectations

Paris is dreamy, yes—but it’s also a real city. That means traffic, noise, crowds, and heat with tourists, especially during the summer. Don’t let that take away from the experience—just be prepared. Bring comfy walking shoes, pack a water bottle, and know that sometimes the Eiffel Tower just might not sparkle exactly on cue. That’s okay. The magic is still there.

Don’t try to do everything

Trying to cram every museum, landmark, and photo op into four days is a fast track to burnout. Prioritize a few must-sees each day, and leave time to simply wander, relax at a café, or sit by the Seine with a baguette in hand. 

Book major attractions in advance

We all know that Paris is very busy, especially in peak seasons. Which means, booking in advance is not optional, but essential. Some spots sell out months ahead, especially timed entries.

I really recommend getting tickets ahead of time for the below to avoid them being sold out or having to wait in a long line:

• The Orangerie Museum
• Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip the Line
• The Louvre Museum
• Musee d’Orsay
• Arc de Triomphe
• Sainte Chapelle
• Notre Dame Cathedral Tour
• Top of the Eiffel Tower
• The Picasso Museum

Travel tip: I started looking for Louvre tickets three months ahead of my trip, and some time slots were already gone. Plan early!

If you are a museum lover, a great way to make the most of your visit is getting the Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 Days. It gives you skip-the-line access to over 60 museums and monuments in and around the city, including the Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, and Centre Pompidou. It’s especially useful if you’re planning to spend a few days Paris, since it fits perfectly with the highlights most visitors want to see.

When is the best time to visit Paris?

Paris is always a good idea—but depending on what kind of experience you’re after, some seasons might suit you better than others. There’s really no wrong time to go, but here’s a breakdown to help you decide the best time to plan your trip:

Spring (March to May)

Spring in Paris is truly magical. The city starts to bloom—cherry blossoms decorate the streets, gardens come to life, and the weather is mild and fresh. It’s a wonderful time to stroll through neighborhoods, picnic in parks, and sip coffee outside a café. This is one of the best times to visit if you want that romantic, postcard-perfect Paris vibe without the summer crowds.

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the high season and brings warm temperatures, longer days, and lots of energy. The city has many outdoor events, riverside pop-ups along the Seine, and people everywhere enjoying the sun. It’s also peak season, so popular spots like the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower will be busier. Since its busy, watch out for pickpockets, especially when in the metro station! If you don’t like the crowds and city heat then summer may not be the best time for you.

Fall (September to November)

Great time to visit! Fall in Paris is cozy and golden. The trees change color, the air is crisp, and the city feels a little calmer after summer. It’s a lovely time for museum-hopping, wine bars, and scenic walks through gardens like the Jardin des Tuileries. Early fall, especially September, is a sweet spot—fewer crowds but still great weather. The city becomes a great place to slow down and take it all in.

Winter (December to February)

Winter brings a quieter, more local side of Paris. It gets chilly, but there’s something so charming about the city lit up for the holidays. Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and fewer tourists make this an underrated but beautiful season to visit. If you’re looking for fewer lines (except the holiday season) and a more relaxed vibe, this could be the best time for you.

How to get to Paris?

From the airport

If you’re flying into Paris, you’ll most likely arrive at Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Both airports are well-connected to the city center.

From CDG, the easiest options are the RER B train, it will take around 35 minutes to central Paris for€13 or Uber 55–65€.

From Orly, you can take the Orlyval light rail and connect to the RER B, or hop in a taxi (around 35–45€).

If you’re arriving with lots of luggage or after a long flight, a taxi or Uber might be worth the splurge—especially if you’re heading straight to your hotel or apartment.

Getting to Paris by train

Paris is incredibly well connected by train. If you’re coming from cities like London, Brussels, or Amsterdam, you can book here the Eurostar or Thalys high-speed trains which are super convenient and drop you off right in the heart of the city at Gare du Nord or Gare de Lyon. Train travel in Europe is often faster and more relaxing than flying—plus, no airport hassle.

How to get around Paris?

Paris is a great place to explore on foot. You’ll find so many cute streets, hidden courtyards, and little surprises around every corner. That said, the city is huge, and your feet will feel it. Mix walking with public transportation (super efficient) or a short Uber when needed.

Walking

Paris is a very walkable city, and honestly, one of the best ways to take it all in is on foot. Each neighborhood (or arrondissement) has its own feel, and you’ll notice charming details you might miss otherwise—like hidden courtyards, small bakeries, or art tucked into the streets. Pack comfy shoes because you’ll be doing plenty of walking on your three days Paris itinerary!

Taking the metro

The Paris Metro is efficient, affordable, and easy to use once you get the hang of it. It can take you pretty much anywhere in the city.

Tickets can be bought individually, but it’s cheaper and easier to grab a carnet (a pack of 10) or use a Navigo Easy card.

Google Maps works well for metro directions, but I also like the Bonjour RATP app to help with routes and live updates.

Taking Uber or taxis

Uber works pretty well in Paris and is often more affordable than traditional taxis. It’s especially great late at night or when your feet are completely done for the day (which, trust me, happens fast in Paris!).

That said, be prepared for a little patience—sometimes it takes a while for a driver to accept your ride, and it’s not uncommon for your request to be canceled mid-wait, which can be frustrating if you’re in a rush. This happened to us a couple of times, especially early in the morning or during busier hours.

Travel tip: If you’re heading to the airport or need to be somewhere at a specific time, request your ride early to allow time for delays or cancellations (if any). We booked an Uber to the airport for an early morning flight and gave ourselves extra buffer time—definitely recommend doing the same!

Also worth noting: while taxis are always an option, they tend to cost more, and there is a chance of getting ripped off.  I would use Uber to be safe.

Is Paris safe to visit? What’s the story with pickpockets & scams?

Unfortunately, like many major European cities, pickpocketing and tourist scams are pretty common in Paris—especially near popular landmarks like the Musée du Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Sacre Coeur, and busy metro stations. Stay aware and don’t let your guard down just because you’re caught up in the beauty of it all.

A lot of these scams are well-rehearsed, and some even work in groups—while one person distracts you, another is already going through your bag or slipping your phone from your pocket.

Common scams to watch out for:

• The Petition Scam: Someone asks you to sign a petition (often pretending to be deaf or working for a charity). While you’re distracted, someone else may pickpocket you—or they’ll demand a “donation” after you sign.
• The Bracelet Trick: Someone grabs your wrist and quickly ties a friendship bracelet on it—then asks you to pay for it. Sometimes it’s just a distraction while someone else checks your bag or pockets.
• Dropped Ring Scam: A person pretends to find a gold ring on the ground and tries to convince you it’s real, offering it to you and asking for money in return.
• “Found” Wallet or Lost Item Scam: A stranger points out a wallet or item “you dropped,” making a scene—again, it’s often a distraction technique.
• Street Games or Performers: While not all are scams, many use crowds to create opportunities for pickpockets to get close unnoticed.

Being aware doesn’t mean being paranoid—just stay alert, trust your instincts, and enjoy the city without the stress. A crossbody bag, worn in front, with a zipper is a simple but powerful defense!

Language: Do I need to speak French?

While some Parisians, especially those in restaurants, hotels, museums, etc.. speak English, making an effort to speak French goes a long way. Even a simple bonjour, merci, or parlez-vous anglais? can completely change the interaction. It shows respect and helps break the stereotype that visitors expect locals to adjust to them. Also, everyone was very nice and polite; we didn’t get any negative attitude or unpleasant vibes. 

How many days do you need in Paris?

If you’re wondering how much time to spend in Paris, the honest answer is—as much as you can. The ideal time to truly experience the Parisian lifestyle is at least a week. That gives you enough time to explore beyond the big landmarks, linger at outdoor cafés, wander through quiet neighborhoods, and enjoy the slower moments that make Paris so magical.

That said, I know most travelers don’t always have a full week to spare—especially first time visitors trying to fit in other European cities. On average, people spend around three to four days in Paris, which is actually a great amount of time to hit the highlights while still getting a feel for the city’s charm. That’s exactly why I put together this three days Paris Itinerary—to help you experience the best of Paris in a short trip without feeling rushed.

In four days, you’ll be able to visit iconic spots like the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, and Musee d’Orsay, catch a sunset at the Eiffel Tower, walk through Montmartre, and maybe even see a show at the Moulin Rouge.

You might not see everything, but with the right plan, you’ll see the best things and still have moments to pause, take it in, and fall in love with Paris—just like I did.

Need inspiration for your next trip? Check out some of my other posts:

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