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Should I Go Up the Eiffel Tower or Montparnasse Tower?

Should I go up the Eiffel Tower or Montparnasse Tower?
The honest answer is: it depends on what kind of experience you want. One is emotionally iconic. The other is visually superior. Paris, of course, makes you choose.

This guide compares going up the Eiffel Tower vs Montparnasse Tower, explains what you actually get from each, and tells you which one makes sense for your trip to Paris.

No fluff. No false balance. Just a clear decision.

The Core Difference (Read This First)

Here’s the fundamental truth most guides dance around:

Go up the Eiffel Tower → You experience the symbol of Paris
Go up Montparnasse Tower → You get the best view of Paris

One is about being inside history.
The other is about seeing the whole picture.

Going Up the Eiffel Tower: The Iconic Experience

The Eiffel Tower is not just a viewpoint. It’s an event.

Why the Eiffel Tower Is Worth Going Up

It’s the most famous landmark in Paris
The structure itself is the experience
First-time visitors often find it emotional
You feel the scale and presence of the city

You don’t just look at Paris. You feel like you’ve arrived.

Downsides of Going Up the Eiffel Tower

Long queues if not booked in advance
Crowds almost all day
More expensive tickets
You cannot see the Eiffel Tower in your photos

Irony is strong here.

Going Up Montparnasse Tower: The Best View in Paris

The Montparnasse Tower is loved for one reason: the view.

Why Montparnasse Tower Is Worth It

Best panoramic view of Paris
Clear view with the Eiffel Tower in it
Fewer crowds
Faster and easier access
Ideal for photos

From the top, Paris finally makes geometric sense.

Downsides of Montparnasse Tower

The building itself is… not loved
No romantic mythology
Less “wow, I’m in Paris” feeling

You’re there for the view, not the vibes.

Which View Is Better?

Let’s be blunt.

Best View of Paris

➡ Montparnasse Tower

Why?

You see the entire skyline
You see the Eiffel Tower clearly
You understand the city’s layout

Best Emotional Experience

➡ Eiffel Tower

Why?

You’re inside the symbol
The structure itself matters
It feels historic, not just tall

If your priority is photos and perspective, Montparnasse wins. If your priority is symbolism, Eiffel wins.

Crowds and Time Investment

This matters more than people admit.

Eiffel Tower

Requires advance booking
Long security lines
Can take 2–3 hours total

Montparnasse Tower

Short lines
Quick elevators
Often under 1 hour total

If time is limited, Montparnasse is the calmer option.

Which Is Better for First-Time Visitors?

For most first-time visitors:

Eiffel Tower → emotionally satisfying
Montparnasse Tower → visually superior

If you only do one and want the “I’ve been to Paris” feeling, choose the Eiffel Tower.

If you want the best memory photo, choose Montparnasse.

Which Is Better at Night?

This is important.

Eiffel Tower at night → magical sparkle, romantic atmosphere
Montparnasse at night → stunning city lights, perfect skyline

If you love atmosphere: Eiffel Tower
If you love city views: Montparnasse Tower

Can I Do Both?

Yes. And that’s actually the smartest option if you have time.

Many experienced travelers:

Go up Montparnasse Tower
Enjoy the view with the Eiffel Tower
See the Eiffel Tower from the ground at night

This combination gives you:

The best view
The best atmosphere
Minimal frustration

Paris rewards strategy.

Common Mistakes Tourists Make

Let’s avoid regret.

Mistakes to Avoid

Choosing Eiffel Tower at peak midday without tickets
Expecting quiet viewpoints
Thinking Montparnasse is “lesser”
Forgetting that views matter more than height

Height alone is meaningless. Perspective is everything.

So, Should I Go Up the Eiffel Tower or Montparnasse Tower?

Here’s the clean decision guide:

Choose the Eiffel Tower if:
- It’s your first time in Paris
- You want the iconic experience
- You don’t mind crowds
Choose Montparnasse Tower if:
- You want the best view of Paris
- You want photos with the Eiffel Tower
- You prefer fewer crowds
Choose both if:
- You want zero regrets