Visit Montparnasse Tower and Explore Paris from Above
Visit Montparnasse Tower if you want a stunning view of Paris. This tower, which is situated right in the center of Montparnasse, provides tourists with an unparalleled panoramic perspective of the City of Lights.
Several famous buildings, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, may be seen from the rooftop patio.
Tickets for the observation deck can be purchased at the tower’s base on Rue de l’Arrivée. Consider the Paris Pass, including the Montparnasse Tower, to save time and money.
Once at the top, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Don’t miss this unique perspective of Paris, even if it’s less famous than the Eiffel Tower.
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History of Montparnasse Tower
Visiting the Montparnasse Tower should be on your itinerary if you travel to Paris. The tower has a remarkable past that began in the 1970s. Here is a quick summary of Montparnasse Tower’s past.
Built-in the 1970s, the Montparnasse Tower first welcomed visitors in 1973. Eugène Beaudouin, Urbain Cassan, and Louis Hoym de Marien were the architects that created it. Up until 2011, the tower’s height of 210 meters made it the tallest structure in Paris.
Back in the day, when the plans for the Montparnasse Tower were unveiled, it sparked quite a controversy. Some folks were dead set against it, claiming it would spoil the picturesque skyline of our beloved Paris.
The tower rose defiantly, standing tall amidst the opposition, becoming an absolute icon of the Parisian landscape.
The tower found its footing on the very spot where the old Gare Montparnasse train station used to be. The train station got relocated to a different spot to make room for this architectural marvel.
The new train station, Montparnasse-Bienvenue, is just a hop, skip, and jump away, serving as a bustling transportation hub for Paris.
Tamara de Lempicka’s paintings are among the many pieces of art that use the Montparnasse Tower as a central motif. The tower is a well-liked subject for photographers and artists due to its sleek, contemporary appearance.
Why Visit Montparnasse Tower?
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, visiting the Montparnasse Tower should be on your list of things to do. Here are a few reasons why:
Breathtaking Views
The Montparnasse Tower observation deck offers one of the best views of Paris. You can see the entire city from the top of the tower, including famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame.
The panoramic view from the Montparnasse Tower observation deck is simply breathtaking, and it’s a great way to get a sense of the layout of the city.
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Skyscraper Experience
The Montparnasse Tower, often called the Montparnasse skyscraper, stands as the sole high-rise in Paris, providing visitors with a distinct vantage point to admire the city.
If you’re interested in architecture or engineering, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see a modern building in contrast to the historic buildings that dominate the Parisian skyline.
Fewer Crowds on Your Visit to Montparnasse Tower
While the Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly a must-see attraction in Paris, it can be crowded and overwhelming.
The Montparnasse Tower, on the other hand, is a bit more off the beaten path, so you can enjoy the view without feeling like you’re in a sea of tourists.
Rooftop Terrace
In addition to the observation deck, the Montparnasse Tower also has a rooftop terrace, known as the Montparnasse Tower roof terrace, where you can enjoy a drink or a meal with a view.
It’s a great place to relax and take in the cityscape from an elevated perspective, and it’s a unique experience that you won’t find at other Parisian landmarks.
City of Lights
Paris is known as the City of Lights, and the view from the Montparnasse Tower at night is truly magical. The city is lit up like a Christmas tree, and the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the distance.
It’s a romantic and unforgettable experience that you won’t want to miss from the Paris Montparnasse Tower.
In summary, visiting the Montparnasse Tower in Paris is a unique and unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking views to the rooftop terrace, it’s a great way to see the city from a different perspective.
Whether you have a passion for architecture or engineering or simply want to immerse yourself in the mesmerizing ambiance of the City of Lights, a visit to the Montparnasse Tower is an absolute must. Make sure you wear comfortable travel shoes while traveling!
Getting to Montparnasse Tower
If you plan to visit Montparnasse Tower in Paris, you’ll want to know how to get there. Fortunately, the tower is easily accessible by public transportation, particularly by metro.
By Metro
To visit the Montparnasse Tower, you can easily access it in the Montparnasse neighborhood, nestled within the 14th arrondissement of Paris.
Conveniently, you can reach the Montparnasse Tower by public transportation from the Montparnasse train stop, which serves the 4, 6, 12, and 13 Metro lines.
If you’re coming from central Paris, take Line 4 or 6 to the Montparnasse-Bienvenue station, the nearest Montparnasse Tower metro stop.
From there, you have a couple of options: you can either walk to the tower directly or transfer to Line 12 and continue your journey to the Falguière station, which is even closer to the tower.
Another alternative is to take Line 13 to the Gaîté station, which is also conveniently located near the Montparnasse Tower Paris metro.
It’s important to keep in mind that Paris’s metro system can get crowded, especially during peak hours. So, as you embark on your journey, be prepared to stand and hold onto a handrail for stability.
Taking the metro is a highly convenient and affordable means of reaching the Montparnasse Tower. To ensure a smooth trip, I recommend planning your route in advance and allowing ample time to navigate the metro system.
Montparnasse Tower Tickets and Booking
If you plan to visit Montparnasse Tower, you’ll need to purchase tickets to access the panoramic observation deck. There are several ticket options available, including regular admission and skip the line tickets.
Regular Admission Tickets
To visit Montparnasse Tower, you have the option to purchase regular admission tickets either online or in person.
The cost of tickets varies based on your age category, with adult tickets priced at €23, youth and student tickets at €18, and child tickets at €14. Notably, children under four years old can enter for free, although a ticket is still necessary.
It’s important to note that there may be lines to enter the tower during peak tourist season.
If you prefer to skip the queues and save time, I recommend considering the purchase of skip-the-line tickets, which will allow you to enjoy a more seamless and efficient visit to Montparnasse Tower.
Skip the Line Tickets
Skip-the-line tickets allow you to bypass the regular admission lines and enter the tower more quickly. These tickets are available for purchase online and in person and typically cost a bit more than regular admission tickets.
If you’re short on time or want to avoid waiting in line, skip-the-line tickets are a great option. They allow you to spend more time enjoying the panoramic views of Paris and less time waiting in line.
When booking your tickets, be sure to check the hours of operation for Montparnasse Tower. The tower is open every day of the week, but hours may vary depending on the season.
Overall, purchasing tickets to Montparnasse Tower is a straightforward process. Whether you opt for regular admission or skip-the-line tickets, you’ll surely enjoy the stunning views of Paris from the top of the tower.
What to Expect on a Visit to Montparnasse Tower
When you visit Montparnasse Tower, you can expect to experience breathtaking panoramic views of Paris from its observation deck. Here’s what you can expect on each floor of the tower:
56th Floor
The 56th floor of Montparnasse Tower is home to the Le Ciel de Paris restaurant, which offers a fine dining experience with a stunning view of Paris. You can enjoy a gourmet meal while taking in the panoramic views of the city.
The menu at Le Ciel de Paris showcases flavorful, imaginative, and seasonal cuisine that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Whether you’re a seafood lover, a meat enthusiast, or prefer vegetarian options, the restaurant has a wide variety of French dishes to cater to different preferences.
Le Ciel de Paris offers a stunning panoramic view of Paris, making it a top attraction. Dine while enjoying the view through floor-to-ceiling windows.
If you’re interested in dining at the Montparnasse Tower restaurant, it’s recommended to make a reservation in advance to secure your table to enjoy the panoramic views of the city.
360 Cafe, on the other hand, is a more casual option for dining at Montparnasse Tower. The Montparnasse Tower cafe is located on the 56th floor as well and offers a selection of drinks, snacks, and light meals.
The 360 Cafe in Montparnasse Tower has a more relaxed atmosphere and is perfect for a quick bite or a drink while enjoying the panoramic view of Paris.
59th Floor
The 59th floor of Montparnasse Tower in Paris is the highest level accessible to the public, and it offers a 360-degree view of the city. From here, you can see iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
The observation deck is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Overall, visiting Montparnasse Tower is an unforgettable experience you won’t miss. You can enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the 59th-floor observation deck, dine at the Le Ciel de Paris restaurant, and take in the stunning views of the city from every angle.
It’s no wonder that President Georges Pompidou approved the building, as it truly offers one of the best views of Paris.
Things to Do Near Montparnasse Tower
If you’re planning to visit Montparnasse Tower, there are several other attractions in the area that you won’t want to miss. Make the most of your time in this vibrant part of Paris by exploring these top things to do near Montparnasse Tower:
Paris Catacombs
Visiting the Paris Catacombs is a unique and intriguing experience that takes you beneath the city’s bustling streets into a fascinating underground world.
Descending into the depths, you’ll encounter a maze of ancient tunnels lined with neatly arranged bones, creating a macabre yet captivating sight. These ossuaries house the remains of millions of Parisians, providing a solemn reminder of the city’s history.
As you explore the dimly lit passages, you’ll be immersed in an eerie atmosphere, surrounded by the echoes of the past.
The Paris Catacombs offers an opportunity to delve into the mysterious underworld beneath the City of Light and discover a hidden aspect of Parisian history.
Parks and Cemeteries
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, there are plenty of parks and cemeteries near Montparnasse Tower where you can relax and unwind.
The Jardin du Luxembourg is a popular choice, with its beautiful gardens, fountains, and statues.
Another option is the Montparnasse Cemetery, where you can pay your respects to some of the most famous people in French history. It is one of the free things to do in Paris.
Creperies
No visit to Paris would be complete without indulging in the city’s famous crepes. And when you’re near Montparnasse Tower, you’ll find a plethora of creperies to satisfy your cravings.
If you’re looking for restaurants near Montparnasse Tower specializing in crepes, La Creperie de Josselin is a must-visit.
The La Creperie de Josselin is popular with its wide selection of sweet and savory crepes. Another option is Breizh Cafe, which is known for its traditional Breton-style crepes.
There are also places to stay near Montparnasse Tower with amazing restaurants. You can find them here.
Is Montparnasse Tower Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Mainly when the sun shines!
Overall, visiting the Montparnasse Tower in Paris is an unforgettable experience that you shouldn’t miss.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the tower offers a unique perspective of the city that you won’t find anywhere else. So, don’t hesitate to add it to your Paris itinerary and enjoy the breathtaking views from the top!
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