10 of the Most Instagrammable Places in Paris
Is there anywhere more romantic than Paris? The city practically overflows with culture and anyone lucky enough to explore its streets, shops and historical sites should have a camera ready to capture every bit of glamour and history along the way. The highly photogenic City of Light is a traveler's dream and sharing the beauty of Paris with friends and family will add a shot of cultural infusion to your Instagram feed. Here are our picks for the most Instagram-worthy locales in France's capital city.
1. The Eiffel Tower
There could not be a list about what to capture in Paris without its most famous monument. Be one of the seven million visitors this year to see the sparkling sights of the symbol of France. The view from the bottom is beautiful — but if you have the inclination to walk 1,665 steps (or pay to ride up in the elevator), you're in for a truly spectacular view. Either way, your Instagram followers will be in awe of the incredible views of the city and the architecture of the tower itself.
2. Le Bon Marché
The name literally translates to "good deal," so it's a must-see for the fashion lover — and for his or her followers. Le Bon Marché is a massive department store — the first of its kind in 19th-century Paris. Located in the 6th and 7th arrondissements, this shopping haven is filled with a deep sense of French history and culture. Be sure to photograph your fashion finds or the modern mall interior.
3. Père Lachaise Cemetery
Père Lachaise opened in 1804 as Paris' largest cemetery and is the most-visited in the world. More than 3.5 million people pass through every year, visiting the final resting places of notable names including Oscar Wilde, Honoré de Balzac, Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf and many more. Visiting Père Lachaise is a beautiful walk through history, so be sure to share it with those who can't experience its magic firsthand.
4. Hot Chocolate from Angelina
Angelina is known to have some of the best desserts in Paris — and maybe even the world. Indulge in their decadent cakes, croissants and ever-so-loved hot chocolate — just don't forget to take that IG picture first. Angelina is located in the 1st Arrondissement near Tuileries Garden and their sweets deliver that drool-worthy picture that's authentically Parisian. Capture these shots across the street in the garden, or in Angelina's romantic and elegant tea room, both of which provide the perfect backdrop for your followers to gush over.
5. Musée D'Orsay
The Musée d'Orsay is the perfect place for any art buff. Unfortunately, photography of the beautiful Van Goghs, Cezannes and Monets is strictly prohibited, but the real photo-op is the clock by the gift shop anyway. This clock, located on the fifth floor, provides the perfect view over the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and The Louvre, giving photographers a majestic, silhouetted shot of Paris through the hands of the giant watch.
6. Jardin du Palais-Royal
This garden has countless photo-worthy spots to fill your IG feed. From art galleries and cafés to the Court of Honor adorned with pinstripes over all of its pillars, this spot is ideal if you're looking for total French cultural immersion. There are even outdoor sculpture exhibits frequently displayed on the two lawns. The curated nature on historically rich ground shows visitors the qualities of Paris and can be photographed accordingly.
7. Shakespeare and Company
With walls lined with books and a potential literary genius in the next room, Shakespeare and Company is a must-visit and definitely must-photograph spot in Paris. As a result of many years of housing lost writers and artists in need of a place to sleep, this quaint shop near the Seine has collected stories from each — both written down and embedded into the atmosphere of the space. To this day, those who need a temporary home can still stay there, as long as they read one book each day and write a one-page autobiography. This beautiful shop can also be seen in Woody Allen's film Midnight in Paris, Richard Linklater's Before Sunset, and soon enough, on your own Instagram feed.
8. Louvre Pyramid
This huge glass and metal pyramid is close to the main entrance of the Louvre Museum which houses some of the most famous works of art in the world. The beautiful design by I.M. Pei rivals the Eiffel Tower in representing the architectural abilities of Paris. Countless photos are taken from the courtyard around the Pyramid daily as visitors pass in and out of the enormous museum.
9. Sacré-Cœur Basilica
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica translates to the Sacred Heart of Paris and this old Parisian church is something you can't miss. Located at the highest point of the city, Montmartre, the religious importance of this site is highly valued by French society and it also marks developmental moments in history surrounding the Franco-Prussian War and the socialist Paris Commune. Anyone who wants to deepen their cultural understanding must come here and check out the incredible views from the top of the steps (there's also a funicular in case you aren't up for the climb). While you're there, you might as well snap some pictures for those who couldn't make it.
10. Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is the most-visited theme park in all of Europe — the resort is home to two theme parks, 14 hotels, a golf course, a railway station and a shopping mall — and will give you plenty of photo-ops before you even get to the rides. You'll find classic Disney rides and characters, like It's a Small World, Space Mountain (their version is much cooler!) and Minnie Mouse and Snow White. Consider this the perfect place to indulge your childhood whims and share them with your IG followers to let them in on the nostalgia too.
What are some of your favorite places in Paris to take photos? Sound off, below.