Why You Shouldn’t Skip the Tour Montparnasse in Paris

Paris is known for its timeless landmarks—the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. But if you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path with jaw-dropping views and far fewer crowds, Tour Montparnasse might just be your new favorite Parisian surprise. Rising 210 meters into the sky, this skyscraper offers the best panoramic view of the Eiffel Tower and the Paris skyline—without having to elbow your way through a crowd.

Located in the heart of the 15th arrondissement, Tour Montparnasse has long been a subject of curiosity and debate, with its stark contrast to the city's classic Haussmannian architecture. Yet for those who visit, the view from the top often becomes a highlight of their Paris experience.

So—is Tour Montparnasse worth it? Let's break it all down: what makes it famous, how much it costs, how long to plan for, how to get there, and even where to stay nearby. Whether you're visiting Paris on a budget or with kids in tow, this guide is here to help.

Tour Montparnasse in Paris

Table of contents

• Tour Montparnasse in Paris
• What Makes Tour Montparnasse Famous?
• Is Tour Montparnasse Worth It?
• How Much Does It Cost to Go Up the Montparnasse Tower?
• How Long Does the Tour Montparnasse Take?
• Best Time to Visit Tour Montparnasse
• Tours Montparnasse: Hauteurtours vs. Infernale
• Where to Stay Near Tour Montparnasse
• Getting There: Transport to Tour Montparnasse
• Tour Montparnasse: In Conclusion

What Makes Tour Montparnasse Famous?

Although not as classically beautiful as other Paris monuments, the Tour Montparnasse stands out as the city’s only skyscraper within city limits. Built in the 1970s, its modern architecture stirred quite a controversy at the time—but today, it offers an unparalleled 360-degree view of the entire city, including the Eiffel Tower.

Inside, you’ll find a modern elevator that whisks you to the 56th floor in just 38 seconds. From there, you can continue up to the rooftop terrace, which offers one of the most spectacular views in all of Paris—especially at sunset.

Is Tour Montparnasse Worth It?

If you’re asking yourself, “Is Tour Montparnasse worth it?”—you’re not alone. Many travelers skip this modern skyscraper in favor of more historic landmarks, but that’s precisely why it’s such a hidden gem. In truth, Tour Montparnasse offers one of the most rewarding panoramic experiences in Paris, especially for those who crave an authentic and crowd-free moment above the city.

Unlike the Eiffel Tower, where the queues can be overwhelming and the platforms crowded, Tour Montparnasse gives you a peaceful, comfortable experience with breathtaking 360° views that include the Eiffel Tower itself. That’s right—the most iconic photo of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower perfectly centered in the skyline, is best taken from the top of Tour Montparnasse.

What makes it even more worth it is the speed and ease of access. An elevator whisks you from street level to the 56th floor in just 38 seconds. From there, a short staircase takes you to the open-air rooftop observation deck. With glass barriers and minimal crowds, it’s the ideal place for photography, a quiet moment, or even a romantic toast from the rooftop champagne bar.

Key reasons why Tour Montparnasse is worth it:

• Unmatched view of the Eiffel Tower in your skyline photos.
• Far fewer crowds than other tourist hotspots.
• Faster access—no hour-long queues or complex security lines.
• Open-air rooftop with seating, drinks, and photo ops.
• Great value for money compared to similar attractions.

For travelers who love to discover underrated landmarks, Tour Montparnasse offers not just a view, but a complete experience—elevated, quite literally, above the noise.

So yes, Tour Montparnasse is absolutely worth it, especially for those who want the best photo of Paris, minus the chaos.

How Much Does It Cost to Go Up the Montparnasse Tower?

Planning a visit to Tour Montparnasse and wondering about ticket prices? One of the best things about this attraction is that it offers incredible panoramic views of Paris at a reasonable price—especially when compared to other observation decks in the city.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of Tour Montparnasse ticket prices:

General Admission Tickets:

• Adults (ages 18+): €18
• Youth (ages 12–17): €13.50
• Children (ages 4–11): €9.50
• Kids under 4: Free
• Disabled Visitors: €9.50 (with proof of eligibility)

Online Booking Advantage:

You can save time—and sometimes a few euros—by purchasing your Tour Montparnasse tickets online in advance. This not only helps you skip the line but also lets you select your preferred time slot, especially useful if you’re planning to visit during sunset.

🛑 Tip: Prices may vary slightly during special events or seasonal promotions, so always check the official website for the latest updates before your visit.

Combination & Group Tickets:

• Skip-the-line tickets and combo deals with Seine river cruises, hop-on-hop-off bus tours, or even dining experiences are often available.
• Group discounts are offered for parties of 10 or more—ideal for tour groups or family travel.

Rooftop Extras:

During peak seasons (especially summer), the Tour Montparnasse rooftop terrace hosts a champagne bar. While not included in the base ticket price, drinks are available for purchase, making the experience even more memorable.

Considering the price, Tour Montparnasse provides one of the best values for a major attraction in Paris. You get fast access, panoramic city views, and a quiet escape from the crowds—all for less than the cost of many Eiffel Tower experiences.

So, if you're budgeting your trip and wondering whether it's worth it—rest assured, the Tour Montparnasse ticket price is more than justified by the unique perspective and relaxing experience it offers.

How Long Does the Tour Montparnasse Take?

If you’re planning your Paris itinerary and wondering how long the Tour Montparnasse takes, the answer depends on your travel style—but on average, visitors spend between 1 to 1.5 hours enjoying the full experience.

Quick Visit (30–45 minutes)

For travelers on a tight schedule, it’s possible to visit Tour Montparnasse in under an hour. The high-speed elevator takes you to the 56th floor in just 38 seconds, so even a short stay allows time to soak in the skyline, take stunning photos, and enjoy the air-conditioned observation deck.

This quick version is ideal if:

• You're doing a Paris-in-a-day tour.
• You want a fast but spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower.
• You're visiting during colder months and prefer to stay indoors.

Standard Visit (1 to 1.5 hours)

Most visitors spend about 60 to 90 minutes at Tour Montparnasse. This gives you time to:

• Explore both the 56th-floor indoor observatory and the rooftop terrace.
• Read interactive displays about the landmarks you’re viewing.
• Enjoy a drink or snack, especially during sunset hours when the rooftop champagne bar is open.
• Take photos during golden hour or wait for the Eiffel Tower’s hourly sparkle.

Sunset Experience (Up to 2 hours)

Planning to visit Tour Montparnasse at sunset? Smart move. But it’s best to arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot on the terrace and enjoy the lighting transition as the city glows. You’ll likely end up spending up to 2 hours taking photos, watching the skyline shift, and capturing the magic of the Eiffel Tower sparkling after dark.

Additional Time Considerations:

• Waiting in line is usually minimal, especially if you book your tickets online.
• The elevator is extremely fast, making it one of the most time-efficient attractions in Paris.
• There are no long queues or crowds like at the Eiffel Tower or Louvre.

So if you're wondering how long the Tour Montparnasse takes, rest assured it can fit easily into any itinerary—whether you’re in Paris for a few days or just passing through. It’s a flexible, low-stress experience that’s easy to tailor to your schedule, making Tour Montparnasse a top choice for travelers who want a memorable view without spending half the day in line.

Best Time to Visit Tour Montparnasse

Planning the perfect moment to see Paris from above? Choosing the best time to visit Tour Montparnasse can dramatically enhance your experience—especially if you want to capture the Eiffel Tower at its most breathtaking.

Whether you're a photographer chasing golden light, a couple looking for a romantic evening, or a traveler wanting to avoid crowds, here’s everything you need to know.

Sunset: The Ultimate Time to Visit

The undisputed best time to visit Tour Montparnasse is during sunset. As the sun dips below the Parisian skyline, the city begins to glow with warm tones, and the Eiffel Tower becomes the centerpiece of a magical panoramic view. This is also the ideal time to enjoy the rooftop terrace, which offers unobstructed, 360° views of Paris.

Arrive about 30 to 45 minutes before sunset to get the best spot, especially if you want to catch the golden hour and the dramatic shift into nightfall. On clear days, you’ll witness the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour, creating a memory that’s hard to top.

Morning Visits: Peaceful and Bright

If you prefer a quieter, crowd-free experience, visit Tour Montparnasse in the morning, ideally between 10 AM and 12 PM. The lighting is softer and perfect for photos, and the observation deck is usually less crowded than later in the day. Morning visits also work well if you're planning a packed day of sightseeing and want to start off with a calm, elevated view.

Best Season to Visit

• Spring (April to June) and Fall (September to early November) are ideal, thanks to pleasant temperatures and clearer skies.
• Summer offers the bonus of longer opening hours and the rooftop champagne bar, but it can be more crowded.
• Winter has fewer tourists and a peaceful vibe, but fog and overcast skies can reduce visibility. Still, indoor viewing from the 56th floor makes Tour Montparnasse a year-round attraction.

Weekdays vs. Weekends

To avoid the crowds, try visiting Tour Montparnasse on a weekday, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Weekends can be busier—particularly at sunset—so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.

Evening & Night Visits

Evening is a magical time to be on the Tour Montparnasse rooftop terrace, especially during summer. Watching the city lights switch on and seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle every hour on the hour adds a cinematic touch to your Paris adventure.

Summary: Best Time to Visit Tour Montparnasse

Time of Day	Why It's Great	Pro Tips
Sunset	Golden lighting, Eiffel Tower sparkle	Arrive early for best view
Morning	Fewer crowds, soft lighting	Ideal for photographers
Evening	Romantic, city lights	Stay for Eiffel Tower sparkle
Weekdays	Less crowded	Visit Tue–Thu for quiet time

Whether you're chasing the perfect photo or just want to enjoy a peaceful moment above the city, planning your visit at the right time makes all the difference. With flexible hours and year-round access, Tour Montparnasse fits easily into any Paris itinerary.

Tours Montparnasse: Hauteurtours vs. Infernale

Two themed experiences to know:

### Tours Montparnasse Hauteurtours

This option focuses on the height and panoramic experience. Perfect for first-time visitors who want a guided understanding of Paris’ urban layout from above.

### Tours Montparnasse Infernale

This is more of a thrilling, immersive experience—think escape rooms, mysterious stories, and dramatic lighting. Great for adventurous travelers or families with teens.

Where to Stay Near Tour Montparnasse

There are several excellent hotels near Tour Montparnasse, from luxury to budget-friendly:

• Pullman Paris Montparnasse – A newly renovated 4-star stay with rooftop views.
• Hotel Le M – Boutique style with modern charm.
• Hotel Odessa Montparnasse – Affordable and steps from the tower.

Looking to save money? Check out this guide: Where to stay in Paris on a budget

Getting There: Transport to Tour Montparnasse

Tour Montparnasse is one of the most accessible attractions in Paris. Take Metro Line 4, 6, 12, or 13 and exit at Montparnasse–Bienvenue station. The tower is a 1-minute walk from the exit.

Buses and taxis are also widely available, and if you're traveling with children or large groups, you might consider booking a day pass for easy transfers between attractions. If you're wondering how to plan a family trip, here's a great resource: What to do in Paris with kids in 3 days

Tour Montparnasse: In Conclusion

If you're wondering whether to add this stop to your Paris itinerary, the answer is a resounding yes. Tour Montparnasse offers unmatched skyline views, a relaxing experience, and some of the best Eiffel Tower photos you’ll ever take. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it’s one of those hidden gems that becomes a highlight of your trip. Skip the lines, catch the sunset, and see Paris from a new perspective.