Photo Examples
About This Spot
The Trocadéro Gardens offer the quintessential Eiffel Tower view that defines Paris photography. This elevated plaza provides an unobstructed, symmetrical view of the Iron Lady, making it the go-to spot for that perfect Instagram shot.
Complete Photography Guide
GPS Coordinates
Exact Location
Stand on the central platform of Place du Trocadéro, directly between the two wings of the Palais de Chaillot. GPS: 48.8620° N, 2.2874° E. The exact spot is marked by the center of the semicircular plaza.
How to Find It
Exit Trocadéro Metro (lines 6, 9) and walk toward the Eiffel Tower view. You'll see crowds gathering at the plaza edge. Position yourself at the top of the stairs, centered between the golden statues. The fountains below frame the tower perfectly.
Timing Recommendations
Arrive 45 minutes before sunset for golden hour magic (the tower glows warm orange). For sparkle shots, stay until the top of each hour after dark when the tower lights twinkle for 5 minutes. Avoid midday when harsh shadows flatten the image.
Crowd Levels
Recommended Settings
Use f/8-f/11 for sharp detail throughout. ISO 100-400 during day, bump to 800-1600 for blue hour. For sparkle shots: 2-4 second exposure, f/11, ISO 400, tripod essential. Use a wide lens (16-35mm) to capture the full tower and foreground.
Equipment Needed
Center the tower between the palace wings for symmetry. Include the fountains in the foreground for depth. For unique angles, shoot from the side gardens with trees framing the tower, or go down the stairs to include the Trocadéro sculptures as leading lines.
Classic: Jump shot with the tower behind you. Romantic: Kiss with tower in background. Playful: Pretend to hold/touch the tower top using forced perspective. Fashion: Walk down the Trocadéro stairs with the tower behind. Candid: Sit on the wall looking at the view.
Best Months
Peak Season
Spring (April-May) for cherry blossoms and perfect weather
Seasonal Changes
Spring brings cherry blossoms to the gardens. Summer offers longer golden hours but larger crowds. Fall provides golden foliage and crisp light. Winter creates moody dramatic skies but shorter shooting windows.
Classic Parisian neutrals work best: black, navy, white, beige, or camel. A red accent (scarf, beret, dress) creates striking contrast against the iron tower. Avoid busy patterns that distract from the architecture. Flowing fabrics photograph beautifully for that romantic Parisian aesthetic.
Fully wheelchair accessible via ramps. The plaza is flat and paved. Accessible restrooms available at Palais de Chaillot.
Quick Info
Easy
Golden Hour