The Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck remains a prime spot for panoramic views of Paris. For the year 2025, the entrance fee is 18.50€ for adults and 15€ for visitors aged 12 to 17. Children between 4 and 11 can enter for 10€, while those under 4 can visit free of charge. Senior guests aged 65 and above benefit from a discounted rate of 18€. During the winter months (October to March), the observation deck opens daily from 09:30 AM to 10:30 PM, extending its closing time to 11:30 PM in the summer season (April to September). We visited on 25 January 2025, and the details provided here are valid as of that date.
About the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck
Standing at approximately 210 meters, the Montparnasse Tower offers an exceptional vantage point over the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The observation deck primarily occupies the 56th floor, featuring large windows that showcase a 360-degree perspective of the capital. An upper level, accessible via a short flight of stairs, includes a partially open-air terrace where visitors can soak in the skyline without glare or reflection. We advise spending at least an hour here to fully appreciate the sweeping views, snap photographs, and explore the interactive exhibits that highlight the tower’s place in the city’s urban fabric.
Skyline of Paris from the top of the Montparnasse tower
History and Architectural Highlights
Construction of the Montparnasse Tower took place between 1969 and 1973. The project was led by architects Eugène Beaudouin, Urbain Cassan, and Louis Hoym de Marien, who envisioned a modern skyscraper in a district that was historically known for its literary and artistic circles. Built on the site of the old Montparnasse train station, the tower soon became a symbol of Paris’s push toward contemporary development. Its steel and glass façade represented a marked departure from the surrounding 19th-century Haussmann-style buildings, sparking debates about preserving the city’s heritage versus embracing modernity.
Over the decades, several renovations have taken place to improve visitor facilities and ensure safety. These renovations introduced upgraded elevators, contemporary viewing platforms, and more interactive displays. Today, the observation deck is divided into indoor and outdoor sections, allowing guests to compare the classic Haussmann rooftops of Paris with the modern structures that have shaped the city’s recent growth.
Additional Sections
Beyond the viewing area on the 56th floor, the tower hosts offices, restaurants, and shops. The observation deck itself often features temporary exhibits that highlight different facets of Parisian culture or showcase photography dedicated to the city’s art and architecture. We recommend keeping an eye out for any special displays that might coincide with your visit, as these can add depth to the overall experience.
Nearby Attractions
Just a short stroll away lies the Montparnasse Cemetery, home to the graves of several notable writers, artists, and intellectuals. If you prefer a more unconventional excursion, the Catacombs of Paris are also located within walking distance, allowing for a fascinating descent into the city’s subterranean tunnels. In terms of dining, we suggest trying Le Ciel de Paris, located on an upper floor of the tower, for exquisite cuisine paired with an extraordinary view. Alternatively, the bistros lining Boulevard du Montparnasse are ideal for sampling classic French fare in a lively atmosphere. After concluding your tower visit, you may wish to browse the area’s bustling shopping arcades or pause at a nearby café to enjoy a moment of relaxation.
Our Recommendations
We encourage arriving at the observation deck in the late afternoon, so you can witness both daytime and nighttime perspectives from the same vantage point. The transition from daylight to the illuminated cityscape offers a memorable experience for photography enthusiasts and casual sightseers alike. We also advise dressing in layers when planning to explore the open-air sections, especially during the winter season, as the wind can be bracing at higher elevations.
All in all, the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck delivers an insightful glimpse into the evolving architectural story of Paris, blending a modern skyscraper with the timeless elegance of the city.