Is the Montparnasse Tower in Paris Worth Visiting?
Paris, the City of Lights, is known for its breathtaking skyline, historical landmarks, and romantic atmosphere. While the Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly the city’s most iconic structure, another tower rises in the heart of Paris, offering a different yet spectacular perspective of the French capital: the Montparnasse Tower.
This modern skyscraper has long been a subject of debate among Parisians and tourists alike. Some consider it an eyesore, while others appreciate its panoramic views and strategic location. But the question remains: Is the Montparnasse Tower worth visiting? Let’s delve into what makes this tower a unique attraction and whether it deserves a spot on your Paris itinerary.
Can You Go to the Top of Montparnasse Tower
Yes, visitors can go to the top of the Montparnasse Tower, which stands at 210 meters (689 feet) and has an observation deck that provides an unparalleled view of the Paris skyline. The tower’s observation area is divided into two sections:
- The 56th Floor: This indoor viewing area features large windows that offer stunning views of Paris in a comfortable, climate-controlled space. It includes interactive displays, informative panels, and exhibits that provide historical and cultural context about Paris and its landmarks.
- The Rooftop Terrace: If you want an open-air experience, the 59th-floor terrace is the place to be. With a 360-degree view, this terrace allows visitors to take in a breathtaking panorama of the city, unobstructed by glass or walls.
An elevator takes just 38 seconds to transport visitors from the ground level to the 56th floor, making it one of the fastest in Europe. From there, a short flight of stairs leads to the rooftop terrace, where you can admire Paris from one of its highest vantage points.
What Can You See from the Montparnasse Tower
One of the main reasons to visit the Montparnasse Tower is its exceptional view of Paris. Unlike the Eiffel Tower, which you stand on and look out from, the Montparnasse Tower allows you to admire the Eiffel Tower itself as part of the skyline, making for some of the best photo opportunities in the city. From the top of the tower, you can see:
- The Eiffel Tower: Arguably the highlight of the view, the Eiffel Tower appears majestic against the backdrop of the Parisian skyline, especially at sunset or during the evening when it twinkles with golden lights.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: Though partially obscured by distance, the iconic cathedral can still be spotted in the distance, showcasing its stunning Gothic architecture.
- The Louvre Museum: The historic palace-turned-museum is visible, with its famous glass pyramid entrance standing out.
- Les Invalides: The golden dome of this historical complex, which houses Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb, gleams under the sunlight.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Sitting atop Montmartre, this white-domed basilica is another recognizable landmark visible from the tower.
- La Défense: The modern business district with its towering skyscrapers and the Grande Arche can be seen in the western part of the city.
On a clear day, visibility from the Montparnasse Tower can extend up to 40 kilometers, allowing you to see beyond the city into the countryside.
What Is Inside Montparnasse Tower?
While the Montparnasse Tower is primarily an office building, it does house several attractions and amenities for visitors. Some of the key features include:
- Observatory Floors: The 56th and 59th floors serve as the main attractions for tourists, offering spectacular views and interactive exhibits.
- Le Ciel de Paris Restaurant: Located on the 56th floor, this elegant restaurant offers gourmet French cuisine along with stunning views. Dining here provides an unforgettable experience, whether for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
- Gift Shop: A boutique on the observation floor offers souvenirs, books, and Paris-themed memorabilia.
- Photography Exhibits: The indoor observation area often features temporary photography exhibitions showcasing Paris through different artistic lenses.
- Multimedia Displays: Digital screens and touch panels provide information about the landmarks visible from the tower.
Though the majority of the building functions as an office space, the observation decks and restaurant make it a compelling destination for tourists.
Is the Montparnasse Tower Free?
No, visiting the Montparnasse Tower is not free. There is an admission fee to access the observation deck. Ticket prices may vary depending on the type of visit, with options for daytime, evening, and combined visits. Special discounts are often available for students, seniors, and children.
Additionally, if you choose to dine at Le Ciel de Paris, you can enjoy the view as part of your dining experience, though meal prices reflect the exclusivity of the location.
For those looking to save money, booking tickets online in advance sometimes provides a slight discount compared to purchasing them at the entrance. Some Paris city passes also include access to the tower, making it a cost-effective option for tourists planning to visit multiple attractions.
Is the Montparnasse Tower Worth Visiting?
Whether the Montparnasse Tower is worth visiting depends on your travel preferences and what you seek in a Parisian experience. Here are some reasons why it may be worth a visit:
Reasons to Visit:
- Best View of the Eiffel Tower: Unlike being on the Eiffel Tower, where you can’t see the landmark itself, Montparnasse Tower provides a stunning vantage point to admire and photograph the Iron Lady.
- Less Crowded: Compared to the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower sees fewer visitors, meaning shorter queues and a more relaxed experience.
- Fast Elevator Ride: The journey to the top takes only 38 seconds, making it a quick and efficient way to see the city from above.
- Unique Perspective: Seeing Paris from a modern skyscraper gives a contrasting view compared to the city’s more traditional landmarks.
- Sunset and Night Views: The observation deck is one of the best places to witness a sunset in Paris, as well as the sparkling night lights of the city.
Reasons to Skip It:
- Modern Aesthetic: If you prefer historical architecture, you might find Montparnasse Tower’s contemporary design less appealing compared to traditional landmarks.
- Ticket Price: While the view is spectacular, some travelers may prefer to save money and enjoy free views from places like the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Alternative Rooftops: There are other observation decks in Paris, such as the Arc de Triomphe or Galeries Lafayette’s rooftop, that offer beautiful views at a lower cost.
Ultimately, the Montparnasse Tower is a hidden gem for those who appreciate cityscapes and want a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower. While it may not have the historical charm of some of the city’s older landmarks, its strategic location, fast access, and unique perspective make it a worthwhile stop for photographers, couples, and first-time visitors.
If you have time in your itinerary and love seeing cities from above, Montparnasse Tower can be a fantastic experience. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer historical sites, you might want to prioritize other attractions.
Either way, one thing is certain: whether from the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, or Montmartre, Paris is always a city best seen from above.
