Where Can I see the Fireworks?

Whether you want to join the throngs or steer clear of crowds, here are our top picks for fireworks viewing in Paris.

🥇 Trocadéro: The iconic view facing the Eiffel Tower from across the Seine river. You’ll encounter massive crowds here, but it is the most stunning vantage point, so arrive well in advance!

🥈 Champ-de-Mars: The sprawling green lawn to the south of the Eiffel Tower, where people will start gathering early in the afternoon.

🥉 Pont de Bir-Hakeim: From the Bir-Hakeim bridge, you’ll get a clear view of the fireworks with fewer crowds, but still very close to the Eiffel Tower.

🌿 Parc des Buttes-Chaumont / Rue des Pyrénées: Off-the-beaten-path and across town, this is a local favorite. It’s far from the chaos of the Eiffel Tower, but the high elevation of the neighborhood will give you a great view. 

🌊 Quais near Hôtel de Ville: If you want to stay central, you’ll find a festive atmosphere along the river near Paris’s city hall, with a good view and fewer crowds. 

What is Bastille Day?

Bastille Day, often called “quatorze juillet” or “la Fête Nationale,” is France’s national day, which occurs on July 14 every year. On July 14, 1789, a group of revolutionaries seized control of the Bastille prison. It wasn't a jailbreak—only seven prisoners were held inside at the time, and the fortress was already set for demolition. Instead, the revolutionaries sought artillery and arms, and to seize control of a symbol of royal tyranny. The storming of the Bastille is considered a tipping point, setting off the French Revolution and almost a century of political upheaval. In 1880, the July 14 date was established as the official national day of France. The Bastille prison lives on in memory as Place de la Bastille, located between the 4th, 11th, and 12th arrondissements.

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How does Paris celebrate Bastille Day?

The annual military parade, which starts at the Arc de Triomphe and marches down the Champs-Elysées toward Place de la Concorde, will take place on July 14 from 10:00am to around noon or 1:00pm. If you want to see the parade in person, arrive well in advance, as many streets and nearby metro stations will close before the parade starts. 

Another fun way to celebrate Bastille Day with the Parisians is to stop by a Fireman’s ball, most of which will take place on July 13 this year. Many fire stations organize dances in the evening to raise money for the sapeurs pompiers, the firefighters. Bring some cash for a donation if you want to participate in this tradition!

What should I expect if I'm in Paris on Bastille Day?

Expect crowds near the fireworks and parade spots and closures that will affect public transit. Due to the July 14 parade, expect stations around Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, Concorde, and along the Champs-Elysées (on Lines 1 and 6) to be closed. Similarly, stations near the Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro (on Lines 6, 8, and 9 and RER C) will be closed on July 13 in preparation for the fireworks and concert. Check the RATP website for real-time information.

Many sights and restaurants, especially those near touristic areas, stay open on Bastille Day, but don't be surprised if smaller shops to be closed or have reduced hours. Some museums are also open, including the Musée d’Orsay, Cluny Museum (the Medieval art museum), and Carnavalet museum (the Paris history museum).

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Conclusion

Whether you're visiting Paris to experience the buzz of Bastille Day or you just happen to be here, join Parisians in celebrating their country and revolutionary spirit!