The Best Instagram Spots in Paris

19 January 2024 by Poppy Pearce    681  
The Best Instagram Spots in Paris
Poppy Pearce
By Poppy Pearce

Known for its classic architecture, cobblestoned streets, and cultural attractions, Paris is a photographer’s city. The French capital has a wide variety of locations for capturing special moments, from the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum to charming cafés and neighborhoods like Montmartre. It’s also brimming with beauty, the ideal backdrop for Instagram shots. Want to captivate your followers ? Here are some top tips for finding the most Instagrammable places in Paris.

Best Eiffel Tower Locations for your Next Instagram Post: 

The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly the most iconic landmark of Paris, if not the world. Having a photograph against the backdrop of this historic monument is a rite of passage for all tourists visiting the city. But sometimes it can be challenging to find the right spot. Here are some favorites. 

Champ de Mars

The most unobstructed views of the Tour Eiffel can be seen from the public green space at the foot of the tower – the Champ de Mars. When the weather’s warm, set up your spread of baguettes and cheese to enjoy a picnic here. 

Rue de l’Universite 

Like countless other streets in central Paris, the Rue de l’Université showcases the distinctive elegance of Parisian architecture. However, what separates this street from others is its impressive backdrop of the Eiffel Tower. 

Trocadéro 

The Place du Trocadéro is a popular location for tourists to gaze upon and take pictures of the famous Eiffel Tower. The large square offers a remarkable view of the tower across the Seine. Keep your ears and eyes peeled for performers who add to the magic of this location. 

 

 

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Port Debilly 

Situated below the Trocadero gardens is Port Debilly, a paved riverbank alongside the Pont Iéna which acts as my favorite location for an Instagram snap of the Eiffel Tower.

Avenue de Camoens 

This quaint street in the 16th arrondissement has become a popular spot for eye-catching Instagram posts. Historical buildings line the street, and with a wonderful view of the Eiffel Tower at the end, this is a more authentic spot for a tower shot.

Other Iconic Landmarks 

Paris offers many other iconic landmarks such as the Louvre, Sacré-Cœur, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, and famed bridges such as Pont Alexandre III. Diversify your content by including shots of these beautiful monuments alongside your perfect Eiffel Tower shot.  

Sacré-Cœur 

The panoramic view of the Parisian skyline from Sacré-Cœur is a must-see for all tourists. A photo from the Carrousel de Saint-Pierre at the foot of the church’s gardens gives the full perspective, but a shot from Place Dalida offers a more tranquil spot for your Sacré-Cœur snap.

Louvre  

Distinguished by its glass pyramid, the palatial buildings are home to famous works of art like the Mona Lisa, and offer a scene rich in culture and history. Any position on the Cour Carré will provide you with a wonderful Instagram shot (bonus points for a picture of you touching the point of the pyramid). Inside the museum, the Sculpture Garden is the most Instagrammable room – a light-flooded courtyard housing incredible statues and elegant trees.

Arc de Triomphe  

In my opinion, the best spot for a jaw-dropping picture of the Arc de Triomphe is on the crossing between Avenue de Friedland and Avenue des Champs-Élysées. Standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe stands proudly as a memorial to those who were killed in the French Revolution and Napoleonic battles.  

Notre Dame 

It would be a shame to visit Paris and not get a picture in front of the famous cathedral. A romantic stroll along the Port de Montebello gives a less-busy location for the perfect picture, and the view from the river’s edge further magnifies the church’s size. The view of Notre-Dame from a river cruise is equally as impressive.  

Perfectly Picturesque Parisian Parks: 

Parisian parks provide super scenery, making them the perfect locations for Instagram shots. Colorful flowers, quaint paths, impressive statues, and landscapes that evolve with the seasons provide tranquil backdrops. 

Jardin du Palais Royal 

The contemporary art installation of black and white striped columns by Daniel Buren contrasts with the historic palace surrounding it, creating a unique photo opportunity. Within the park itself, the green chairs circling the water features offer a relaxing place to lounge, and the avenues of lime trees add to the scene of beauty. 

Jardin du Luxembourg  

The Jardin du Luxembourg offers a diverse range of photo opportunities. The immaculately manicured flower beds bring color and vibrancy, and the white statues lining the park create an interesting contrast. The reflection of the palace in the central fountain makes for an impressive photo, as does the Medici Fountain beside the palace. 

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont 

It is hard to believe that you are in Paris when you step inside Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. This lush green space has countless photo opportunities, but it is the Temple de la Sibylle, a scaled-down replica of the Italian Temple of Vesta, situated atop a rocky outcropping in the middle of the lake, that is the park’s most famous feature. 

Place des Vosges  

As the oldest planned square in Paris, the Place des Vosges has a rich history. The square is perfectly symmetrical with a central garden containing manicured lawns and fountains, and surrounded by uniform red-brick buildings to create a visually appealing environment. 

More “Authentic” Spots: 

Remember that Paris’s beauty is found in more than just its famous sites; don’t be afraid to scour lesser-known areas for undiscovered treasures and candid photography opportunities. 

The Bouquinistes of Paris  

In French, “bouquin” is a colloquial term for a book, and thus the bouquinistes refer to the booksellers who sell antique and second-hand books along the Seine, from Pont Marie to Quai du Louvre on the Right Bank, and from Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire on the Left Bank. These iconic green stalls line the River Seine and provide a great opportunity to capture an authentic Instagram shot. 

At a Marché Alimentaire 

Don your most stylish tote bag and take a trip to one of Paris’ bustling outdoor food markets. Expect rows of vibrant fruit and vegetables, countless cheese stalls, and the scent of fresh baguettes to flood your senses. This is a great spot for the perfect “candid.” 

  • Marché Beauvau/Marché d’Aligre (Covered market: Tuesday to Friday, 9 am-1 pm and 4pm-7.30pm ; Saturday, 9am-1pm and 3.30pm-7.30pm ; Sunday, 9 am-1:30 pm. Outdoor market: Tuesday to Friday, 7.30am-1.30pm ‘ Saturday and Sunday, 7.30am-2.30pm)
  • Marché Raspail (Traditional Market: Tuesday and Friday, 7am-2.30pm; Organic Market, Sunday, 9am-3pm) 
  • Marché Mouffetard (Tuesday to Sunday, 8am-1pm) 

Rue Cremieux 

This off-the-beaten-track location has become a go-to spot for tourists and locals alike looking for the perfect Instagram shot. Nicknamed “the most colorful street in Paris”, this cobbled pedestrianized street oozes charm thanks to its painted facades.  

 

Petit Palais 

Cross Pont Alexandre III, the most beautiful bridge in Paris, to arrive at the Petit Palais. This is a free museum that only takes around 45 minutes to view, with a charming delightful courtyard cafe. The main gallery with its majestic statues provides a beautiful backdrop, and the outdoor oasis is ideal for a candid shot of you enjoying a coffee and taking in the art. 

Canal Saint-Martin  

Another trendy area of the French capital is the Canal Saint-Martin, which is located east of the Place de la République. Paris’s Canal Saint Martin manages to be both hip and serene at the same time, with chestnut trees lining the water’s edge, and elegant bridges from where you can watch the canal boats go through the locks.  

Shakespeare and Company  

Shakespeare and Company, situated on the Left Bank, is perhaps the most famous bookstore in the world. Follow in the footsteps of literary greats such as Lawrence Durrell, T.S. Eliot, and Allen Ginsberg, and don’t forget to head upstairs to check out additional nooks and crannies.

Musée d’Orsay Clock  

Home to a vast Impressionist art collection, the Musée d’Orsay is a great location for your next Instagram photo, with notable works of art such as Monet’s Poppies or Van-Gogh’s Self Portrait providing beautiful backdrops. However, it is the stunning Orsay Museum Clock that is my favorite location for that perfect shot. With views across the Seine of the Louvre, the Tuileries Garden, and Sacre Coeur, this spot has it all. 

The Most Aesthetic Cafes and Restaurants: 

Take an Instagram photo in a well-known café or restaurant in Paris to provide your followers with a glimpse of the vibrant food scene and aesthetically pleasing eateries that the city has to offer. 

Du Pain et des Idées 

Nestled in the 10th arrondissement, this bakery is renowned for its excellent baked delicacies, historical charm, and devotion to excellence. The historic facade makes for a particularly striking shot. 

Cafe de Flore 

Café de Flore is famed for its historical significance as an intellectual and cultural hub. Traditionally favored by intellectuals and artists, it has an avant-garde ambiance that captures the essence of Paris’s rich cultural past. Order the decadent hot chocolate and tempt your followers with its deliciousness.  

La Maison Rose 

The Montmartre neighborhood of Paris is home to La Maison Rose, which is well-known for both its quaint pink façade and its ties to the creative scene of Paris, seeing regular visits from artists such as Picasso. Time your visit here well, as the restaurant looks most striking in the golden hour of early evening.  

Pink Mamma 

Dubbed as “the most Instagram-able restaurant in Paris”, this aesthetic location of the infamous chain Big Mamma offers everything for the perfect Instagram shot – beautiful decor, hanging plants, amazing lighting, and colorful tableware. As well as the furnishing, the food itself is delicious and delightfully presented. 

Bouillon Chartier 

Everyone needs a shot of a traditional Parisian eatery to attest to their trip to the city. Popular for its inexpensive menu of traditional French dishes, its classic Parisian ambiance, and its rich history, Bouillon Chartier is a beloved restaurant among locals. 

Odette 

Odette is as well known for its moreish choux pastry puffs, as it is for its iconic facade nestled within the winding lanes of the Latin Quarter. This fairytale-like building acts as a nostalgic reminder of years gone by, and its outdoor seating acts as a brilliant location for an Instagram shot.  

Le Consulat 

Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh were all well-known frequenters of Paris’ celebrated cafe, Le Consulat. Enveloped by the enchanting atmosphere of Montmartre, this bistro is amazingly quaint and magical. Serving iconic French dishes and wonderful coffee, this red-fronted building is an authentic location for a Parisian Instagram picture. 

Know a spot we overlooked? Share your top picks in the comments or over on our Bonjour Paris Instagram account! Tag your Paris snapshots with #BonjourParisPhoto for a shot at being showcased on our site.

Lead photo credit : Montmartre, Paris, Photo Credit: Nezar Kadhem/Flickr

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By Poppy Pearce

Inspired by the rich culture that France has to offer, Poppy Pearce moved to Paris as an au pair in August 2022. Having gained a degree in Theology and Religion with Arabic from the University of Exeter, Poppy has a passion for languages and experiencing new cultures. When she’s not working, Poppy loves to explore everything that Paris has to offer, from exhibitions and museums, to restaurants and second-hand clothing stores.