Champ-de-Mars / Tour Eiffel
The Iron Lady from the lawns of the Champ-de-Mars.
The story of the place
The Champ-de-Mars was not a garden: it was the drill ground of the École Militaire, laid out in 1765, and it bears the name of Mars, the Roman god of war. On 14 July 1790 the Fête de la Fédération gathered an immense crowd there around Louis XVI. The plain then hosted five universal and international expositions; the one of 1889 raised Gustave Eiffel's tower, which was meant to be taken down. It stayed, and the old parade ground became a public garden.
Getting there
Nearest metro station: École Militaire (8). The spot is in the 7th arrondissement of Paris. Open walking directions.
The light
Excellent golden hour (4/5): sunrise and sunset light is warm and very usable here.
Where to go after the shoot
A few addresses within a short walk, to make the moment last.
Large brasserie open from 7.30am at the end of the Champ-de-Mars, big terrace: coffee and tartines straight after a morning shoot.
Brasserie on rue Cler, the pedestrian market street of the 7th: simple dishes and a big terrace, ten minutes from the lawns.
Careful bistro cooking at the foot of the tower, on a street that opens straight onto the Eiffel Tower; booking advised.
Addresses checked in 07/2026. Places change — check opening hours before you head out.
Photo spots nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Champ-de-Mars / Tour Eiffel?
Nearest metro station: École Militaire (8). The spot is in the 7th arrondissement of Paris.
When is the best time to photograph Champ-de-Mars / Tour Eiffel?
Excellent golden hour (4/5): sunrise and sunset light is warm and very usable here. Picnic + golden hour = winning combo.
Can I book a photographer for a shoot at Champ-de-Mars / Tour Eiffel?
Yes. SnapSpot Paris connects you with Paris-based photographers who know the location. A single session can cover several nearby spots — the photographer adapts the route to the light of the day. Pont de Bir-Hakeim, Esplanade du Trocadéro, Avenue de Camoëns, Île aux Cygnes — Statue de la Liberté.