The Best Seine Views in Paris: Complete Guide to Admiring the City of Light
21 July 2025 - par Antoine Broin
The Best Seine Views in Paris: Complete Guide to Admiring the City of Light
The Seine is far more than a river crossing Paris—it’s the city’s soul, offering spectacular viewpoints over iconic monuments, historic bridges and Parisian architecture. Whether you’re strolling the quays, cruising by boat or taking in the skyline from above, here’s our complete guide to the best Seine viewpoints… and how to book unforgettable experiences at the best price.
Summary of the best spots
| Spot | View type | Why go | Best for | Book / Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pont des Arts | Bridge over the Seine | Iconic sunset over the Institut de France & Île de la Cité | Sunset photos | Bridge itinerary |
| Pont d’Iéna | Bridge over the Seine | Up-angle perspective of the Eiffel Tower | Selfies & Eiffel views | Eiffel Tower viewpoint |
| Pont Neuf | Bridge over the Seine | Place Dauphine, La Samaritaine & both branches of the river | Romantic walk | See the best bridges |
| Seine river cruise | From a boat | Continuous panorama: Notre-Dame, Louvre, Orsay, Eiffel Tower | “Best of Paris” discovery | Book a cruise |
| Right bank quays | Walk along the embankments | Port du Louvre, Tuileries in summer, Eiffel Tower views | Walking, relaxing, photos | Sightseeing cruise |
| Left bank quays | Walk along the embankments | Tino Rossi garden, bouquinistes, Quai d’Orsay | Culture & leisurely strolls | Dinner cruise |
| Eiffel Tower | Elevated view | Panorama over the Seine and all of Paris | “Wow” view | Eiffel Tower lunch |
| Montparnasse Tower | Elevated view | Direct view of the Eiffel Tower & the Seine | Photo panorama | Cruise after your visit |
Tip: use the links in the table to jump straight to each section.
1. From the bridges: Paris’s most iconic panoramas
Paris has 37 bridges spanning the Seine, each with its own style and unique view. Some are works of art; others set the stage for the perfect romantic photo.
👉 Also read: The most beautiful bridges in Paris for a full itinerary.
Pont des Arts
With its perfect angle on the Institut de France and a clear view towards the Île de la Cité, Pont des Arts is a superb spot to watch the sun set over the Seine.
Pont d’Iéna
At the foot of the Eiffel Tower, this bridge gives a dramatic, upward perspective of the Iron Lady with the river at her feet.
Pont Neuf
Despite its name, it’s the oldest bridge in Paris. Enjoy a triple view: Place Dauphine and its terraces, the department store La Samaritaine, and both branches of the Seine.
2. By boat: the most immersive experience
Seine cruises are one of the best ways to discover Paris. Sailing from Île Saint-Louis in the east to Île aux Cygnes in the west, you’ll enjoy a continuous panorama of landmarks: Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower…
Book a Seine River cruise
Admire Paris from its most beautiful balcony: the Seine. Daytime, sunset or romantic dinner cruises—at great prices.
3. From the quays: leisurely riverside walks
The Seine riverbanks, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, alternate between lively hangouts and peaceful corners.
Right bank
- Port du Louvre: majestic view of the museum and Pont Neuf
- Quai des Célestins: historic atmosphere
- Port des Tuileries: urban beach in summer
- Port du Gros Caillou: spectacular Eiffel Tower view
Left bank
- Quai Saint-Bernard: Tino Rossi garden and open-air sculptures
- Quai Voltaire: bouquinistes and artistic vibe
- Quai d’Orsay: grand institutions and sweeping views
4. High viewpoints: Paris and the Seine in panorama
Head up high to admire Paris and the Seine in all their splendour.
- Eiffel Tower: panoramic terraces on levels 2 and 3
- Montparnasse Tower: observation deck with direct views of the Seine and Eiffel Tower
- Montmartre: picturesque vantage point (the Seine hides behind the rooftops)
Enjoy an unforgettable lunch at the Eiffel Tower
Savour a refined menu with breathtaking views from Madame Brasserie.
5. Conclusion: admire Paris & book your experiences
The Seine is the golden thread connecting Paris’s most beautiful panoramas. From bridges to boats to high viewpoints, every perspective tells a unique story.
🎯 To experience Paris to the fullest:
FAQ – Seine views in Paris
What’s the best free Seine viewpoint?
Pont des Arts at sunset and the lower quays near the Louvre offer superb panoramas at no cost.
Which cruise should I choose for a first visit?
Pick a 1-hour sightseeing cruise to see the essentials along the Seine.
Where is the best elevated Seine view?
The Eiffel Tower and Montparnasse Tower are ideal for sweeping views over the Seine and Paris rooftops.
