Montparnasse Tower: 56th Floor Panoramic Terrace

The Eiffel Tower polarized public opinion when it was built, before eventually winning people over to become the beloved icon that it is today. Not so with Tour Montparnasse, which is universally loathed as a monstrous eyesore. However, it has unparalleled views of the City of Lights. If you long for a view, and the crowds at the Eiffel Tower are giving you a headache, this is your place.Ugly it may be, but the Montparnasse Tower has Europe's fastest elevator - which will whisk you up to the 56th-floor observatory in just 38 seconds. From there you can enjoy spectacular 360 degrees views of the city. Plus, with the viewpoint indicators, films, touchscreens, and exhibition, you'll find yourself learning a whole lot about the French capital.The 56th floor also houses the city’s highest restaurant, . So you can have fine dining with an equally fine view. But maybe 56 floors isn't quite enough for you; in that case, you can continue on up to the outdoor observatory on the 59th floor. 210 meters above street level, this is the place to cast your gaze across the city, hum a little Edith Piaf, and hold the hand of whoever you're with.