Trocadéro Esplanade
The parvis des Droits de l'Homme, between the two wings of the Palais de Chaillot, offers the most beautiful unobstructed view of the Eiffel Tower. Free access, at any hour. Here is how to make the most of it, and what to book right next door.
Why this is THE viewpoint
Built for the 1937 International Exposition to replace the former Palais du Trocadéro (1878), the Palais de Chaillot looks out over the Seine from the Chaillot hill. Between its two wings, the parvis des Droits de l'Homme opens a perfectly clear, head-on perspective onto the Eiffel Tower, over the gardens and fountains.
It is this difference in elevation, and the absence of any obstacle all the way to the Champ-de-Mars, that make it the most photographed shot in Paris. The semicircular square, with its equestrian statue of Marshal Foch, extends the walk.
The best time to shoot
What to do here and right next door
Visit the Eiffel Tower
About a 10-minute walk via the Pont d'Iéna. Skip-the-line tickets and the summit.
Explore →Seine river cruise
Boarding points at the Pont d'Iéna, at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
Explore →Aquarium & museums
The Aquarium de Paris and the museums of the Palais de Chaillot, right here.
Explore →Getting there
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best spot to photograph the Eiffel Tower?
The Trocadéro esplanade, the parvis des Droits de l'Homme between the two wings of the Palais de Chaillot. Its elevated position gives you a clear, head-on view.
Is the esplanade free?
Yes, it is a public space with free access, at any hour of the day or night.
When does the Eiffel Tower sparkle?
On the hour, every hour, for 5 minutes, from nightfall until midnight (1 a.m. in high season). The final Sparkle at 1 a.m. runs with the beacon and golden lighting switched off.
How do you get there?
Métro Trocadéro, lines 6 and 9. The esplanade is right on the square, at the foot of the Palais de Chaillot.
Enjoy the view, then go up
Got your photo? The Eiffel Tower is a ten-minute walk away. Book your skip-the-line tickets or a cruise at the foot of the Iron Lady.