La Défense is Paris’s modern skyline—glass towers, broad pedestrian plazas, and the striking Grande Arche lining up perfectly with the historic axis back toward the Arc de Triomphe. It feels different from central Paris: wide open, airy, and designed for walking, with outdoor art and reflective pools that make it a fun place to explore (and photograph).
It’s an easy hop on public transport (Metro Line 1, RER A, or Tram T2). Once you arrive, everything important sits along or just off the esplanade: the Grande Arche and its terrace, CNIT and Les 4 Temps for cafés and services, footbridges and terraces for views, and plenty of spots to sit and take it all in. Late afternoon into blue hour is especially nice—office lights come on, reflections deepen, and the axis view feels cinematic.
Plan to wander: start centered on the Grande Arche axis for symmetry shots, then work the esplanade for reflections and bold lines between towers. If the terrace is open, it offers a panoramic look back toward the city; otherwise, the footbridges and plazas give you easy vantage points without crowds. When you’re ready for specifics, see Best Photo Spots and the planning resources below.
Short on time? Step out at La Défense (Grande Arche), walk the axis for a few photos, loop the esplanade past a footbridge or two, then duck into CNIT or Les 4 Temps for a coffee before heading back.
