Many people ask me about the Eiffel Tower area. It’s not the most local spot, but for first-time visitors and photographers, it’s a must. Beyond the tower, you’ll find parks, charming streets, markets, and hidden gems worth exploring. Here’s how to make the most of your visit.
Champ de Mars
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This large park stretches right in front of the Eiffel Tower, offering one of the best open views of the monument.
It’s a favorite spot for picnics, leisurely strolls, and relaxed afternoons under the trees.
Locals and tourists alike spread out blankets, sip wine, and enjoy fresh baguettes from nearby bakeries.
Whether you’re here to admire the Iron Lady or just soak in the Parisian atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the city.
Rue Cler
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Rue Cler is a lively market street packed with fromageries, bakeries, and charming cafés.
Here, you can browse fresh fruits, artisanal cheeses, and gourmet chocolates while experiencing the daily rhythm of Parisian life.
Grab a crusty baguette, some creamy camembert, and a bottle of wine for an impromptu picnic at Champ de Mars.
This pedestrian-friendly street is the perfect spot to experience a true taste of France, just steps from the Eiffel Tower.
Seine Riverbanks
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Some of the most scenic spots next to the Eiffel Tower include Port Debilly, a quiet stretch with stunning views of the tower reflecting on the water, perfect for photos.
Further along, the Berges de Seine pedestrian area has wide walkways, floating cafés, and seating areas where you can relax and watch boats pass by.
Whether you’re walking, picnicking, or capturing the perfect shot, the riverbanks provide some of the most beautiful views in the city.
Ile aux Cygnes
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This narrow, tree-lined island in the middle of the Seine is a hidden retreat just minutes from the Eiffel Tower.
A peaceful walking path runs the entire length, offering quiet views of the city away from the crowds.
At the western end, you’ll find Paris’s own Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the U.S. in 1889.
If you’re looking for a calm place to unwind with unique views, this island is worth a visit.
Related read: Paris Has 6 Statues of Liberty of Its Own. Here’s Where to Find Them
Pont de Bir-Hakeim
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Pont de Bir-Hakeim is one of the most photogenic bridges in Paris, offering a stunning view of the Eiffel Tower.
Its elegant metal arches and double-deck design make it an architectural gem, often featured in movies.
The lower level is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, making it a great spot for a relaxed walk or a picture-perfect moment.
Visit at sunrise or sunset for a magical Parisian skyline backdrop.
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Musée du Quai Branly
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This museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in global cultures and art.
It showcases fascinating collections from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, highlighting traditions, sculptures, textiles, and artifacts from Indigenous cultures.
The museum’s architecture is unique, featuring a living green wall on the exterior and a lush garden surrounding the building.
Inside, the dimly lit exhibitions create an immersive experience, making you feel like you’re traveling across continents.
Les Ombres
27 Quai Jacques Chirac, 75007 Paris
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Les Ombres is an elegant rooftop restaurant that offers one of the best dining views in Paris.
Located atop the Musée du Quai Branly, its terrace provides a breathtaking, up-close look at the Eiffel Tower.
Whether you visit for lunch, dinner, or a sunset cocktail, the ambiance is unforgettable.
The menu features refined French cuisine, making it a great spot for a romantic evening or a special occasion.
Seine River Cruises
Quai Jacques Chirac
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A boat cruise on the Seine is a wonderful way to see Paris from the water. Here are some companies that offer cruises from the Eiffel Tower port:
- Bateaux Mouches: Cruise with lunch
- Bateaux Parisiens: Base cruise or Lunch at the Bistro Parisien followed by a guided cruise
- Vedettes de Paris Base cruise (with an option for a Pause Gourmande or Champagne drinks
- Eiffel Croisères: Croisière Bistronomique (lunch or dinner) and the Croisière Prestige (lunch or dinner)
Rue Saint-Dominique
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Rue Saint-Dominique is a charming street that stretches through the 7th arrondissement, packed with boutiques, bakeries, and small cafés.
It’s a great place to explore on foot, offering a mix of everyday Parisian life and hidden gems.
You’ll find independent fashion stores, gourmet food shops, and cozy cafés with views of the Eiffel Tower peeking through the streets.
If you’re looking for a stylish yet relaxed Parisian shopping experience, this is the place to be.
Le Recrutement
36 Bd de la Tour-Maubourg, 75007 Paris
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Le Recrutement is a classic Parisian café with a lively atmosphere and a prime location.
Sitting on its terrace, you can enjoy a coffee or a glass of wine while taking in a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower.
It’s a popular spot for both locals and visitors who want to soak up the Parisian café culture.
Whether you stop by for a quick espresso or a long, relaxed meal, it’s a great place to people-watch and enjoy the city’s energy.
Boulangerie Poilâne
49 Bd de Grenelle, 75015 Paris
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Boulangerie Poilâne is one of Paris’s most famous bakeries, known for its high-quality bread and traditional techniques.
Their signature sourdough bread, made with stone-ground flour and baked in wood-fired ovens, has been a staple in Parisian households for decades.
Beyond the bread, they offer buttery croissants, apple tarts, and delicious “punitions” (small butter cookies).
If you’re looking for authentic French baked goods, this is a must-visit spot near the Eiffel Tower.
Rue de Grenelle
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Rue de Grenelle is a charming street filled with small shops, cafés, and specialty stores.
This is where you can find everything from gourmet chocolates to fine wines and unique souvenirs.
The street has a quieter, more local feel compared to the busy tourist areas, making it a great place to explore at a slower pace.
Whether you’re browsing for gifts or stopping for a coffee, Rue de Grenelle gives you a glimpse of daily Parisian life.
Rue de l’Université
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This peaceful street offers one of the most picturesque views of the Eiffel Tower.
Tucked away from the crowds, it’s a favorite spot for photographers looking for that perfect shot of the Iron Lady.
The narrow, elegant buildings frame the tower beautifully, making it a hidden gem for visitors who want a quieter, more scenic walk.
If you’re looking for a great photo without the hustle and bustle, this is the street to visit.
Le Malabar
88 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris
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Le Malabar is a small and welcoming bistro that serves classic French cuisine in a cozy setting.
With its warm lighting, wooden tables, and friendly atmosphere, it feels like a true neighborhood spot.
The menu includes traditional French dishes like duck confit, steak-frites, and homemade desserts.
It’s a great place to enjoy a relaxed meal and experience Parisian dining without the tourist crowds.
La Fontaine de Mars
129 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris
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La Fontaine de Mars is one of the oldest bistros in Paris, known for its traditional French dishes and charming red-and-white checkered tablecloths.
This historic restaurant has been serving classic cuisine for over a century, with specialties like coq au vin and cassoulet.
It even gained international attention when former U.S. President Barack Obama dined here.
If you’re looking for a place that combines history, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere, this is it.
Brasserie Le Suffren
84 Av. de Suffren, 75015 Paris
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Brasserie Le Suffren is a classic Parisian brasserie with a strong reputation for fresh seafood.
Located near the Eiffel Tower, it’s a favorite among locals for its oysters, seafood platters, and traditional steak-frites.
The lively atmosphere, spacious terrace, and high-quality ingredients make it a fantastic spot for a long, leisurely meal.
If you’re in the mood for classic French dining, this is a great option in the area.
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Square Rapp
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Square Rapp is a hidden gem tucked away in a quiet courtyard, offering one of the most unique and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.
Surrounded by elegant Haussmannian buildings with intricate Art Nouveau details, this little-known spot feels like a secret escape in the heart of Paris.
The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect place for taking photos or simply admiring the view away from the crowds.
If you’re looking for a quiet yet breathtaking Eiffel Tower perspective, this is the place to find it.
La Motte-Picquet Shopping Area
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This vibrant shopping district is packed with fashion boutiques, gourmet food stores, and charming bakeries.
It’s an excellent area to shop like a local, whether you’re looking for stylish Parisian clothing, artisanal chocolates, or high-quality cheeses.
With its mix of well-known brands and independent shops, La Motte-Picquet offers a more relaxed and authentic shopping experience compared to the crowded Champs-Élysées.
Perfect for those who want to take home a piece of Paris.
Marché de Grenelle
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Held under the elevated metro line, Marché de Grenelle is one of the best open-air markets in Paris.
Open on Wednesdays and Sundays, this lively market is a feast for the senses, with fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and flowers lining the stalls.
Locals come here to do their weekly shopping, making it a great place to experience authentic Parisian life.
If you’re a foodie, this market is an ideal spot to pick up some high-quality ingredients for a picnic near the Eiffel Tower.
Marché Saxe-Breteuil
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Marché Saxe-Breteuil is another fantastic open-air market, offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and gourmet products.
What makes this market extra special is its stunning location—set against the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower.
Open on Thursdays and Saturdays, it’s a favorite among locals looking for high-quality food and unique regional products.
Whether you’re in the mood for fresh pastries, fine cheeses, or handcrafted goods, this market provides a true taste of Paris.
Rue du Commerce
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Rue du Commerce is a charming street that perfectly blends local life with boutique shopping.
It’s lined with a mix of well-known brands and independent stores, selling everything from fashionable clothing to home decor and specialty foods.
The lively yet relaxed atmosphere makes it a great alternative to Paris’s busier shopping areas.
If you want to explore a Parisian street where locals actually shop, this is a great place to wander, browse, and maybe pick up something special.
With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
