France

We all know the famous landmarks of Paris, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre and the list goes on. Other than the Eiffel Tower, most people don’t realize that there are amazing views from many places in Paris. I am deathly afraid of heights, so please appreciate the fact that I have gone up most of the ones I am going to mention! Above is a view from the Eiffel Tower. Not from the top-level, as that was never going to happen. My tour guide actually mentioned that the views are better from the second level. This is where this photo was taken from. I had to get pretty close to the edge to take a photo between the metal fence. Here is another from the Eiffel Tower.

The next place is Montmartre, which if I had thought about it, would have told me it was a hill. We had gone up there to see the Sacre-Coeur Basilica. Montmartre is in the northern part of Paris so it is like you are looking down on Paris. It is also the highest hill in Paris, thus giving it great views! You can see Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower from here.

Not only is the Arc de Triomphe an amazing landmark that leads to the Champs-Élysées, but it is also a place with a view. I had no idea that you could go up inside the monument or that you could walk around the terrace. Unfortunately, I did not do this. There are quite a number of steps to climb to the top and I also had my heart set on walking down the Champs-Élysées, my feet were not going to do both. I looked at some images online and I may have to head back and beg to take the elevator! The view is spectacular and gives you a 360-degree look of Paris.

Even museums have a view! Yesterday, I visited the Musée d’Orsay and discovered that they also have a terrace! Not only that you can see the Louvre and the Seine River from the terrace. There are also some amazing statues carved into the building that you can get up close to by being out there. You can also get a cold drink or an ice cream out there!

Sometimes to get a great view of Paris, all you need to do is to look out the window! Yesterday, I moved from a hotel to an apartment and the rooftop view is quite lovely and is probably a more authentic view of Paris. I could see into the neighbor’s apartments and hear their dinner conversations. (Not that I understand any of it!) Last night, I looked out and saw two cats sitting on the terrace next door. Day-to-day life in Paris with a view!

Have you discovered unexpected views? Share with us in the comments!