Paris: the best places to enjoy 14 July 2026!

This year’s National Day celebrations in Paris are set to be spectacular, but they come with a major change to the schedule that you absolutely mustn’t miss!

⚠️ Please note the 2026 calendar: To mark the 10th anniversary of the Nice attack, Tuesday 14 July will be set aside exclusively for a moment of remembrance and the military parade. Consequently, the Grand Concert de Paris and the Eiffel Tower fireworks display have been brought forward to the evening of Monday 13 July!

Whether you’re looking for the best view of the fireworks on Monday evening or the perfect spot to wave to the troops on Tuesday morning, here’s the ultimate guide to the best spots in Paris.

Monday 13 July (in the evening): Where can I watch the fireworks?

Photo : Amandine Goetz

The fireworks display will begin at 11.00 pm sharp from the Eiffel Tower and will last for 20 minutes, preceded at 9.00 pm by the Concert de Paris on the Champ-de-Mars.

1. Right at the heart of the action: the Champ-de-Mars and the Trocadéro
This is the classic spot to get carried away by the rhythm of symphonic music and be treated to a spectacular sight.
Pros: Total immersion, live music, an electric atmosphere.
Cons: Huge crowds. You need to arrive very early in the afternoon if you want to secure a good spot.

2. ‘Right by the water’ option: The bridges and quays along the Seine
If you want to admire the reflections of the fireworks on the water without the crowds at the Champ-de-Mars, certain bridges offer unbeatable views.

• The Bir-Hakeim Bridge & the Grenelle Bridge: Located right next to the Eiffel Tower, these offer the best vantage points for a direct view.
  The Alexandre III Bridge & the Concorde Bridge: Although further away, they offer a majestic and highly photogenic setting.
  The banks of the Seine (Quai André Citroën, Quai de Grenelle): Perfect for settling down with a little impromptu picnic.

3. A secret, free tip: The heights of Montmartre
Climb the steps up to the forecourt of the Sacré-Cœur. Although you’ll be some distance away, the panoramic view of the whole of Paris aglow with the lights of the fireworks is simply magical.

4. Premium Option: Rooftop Bars and River Cruises
Many river cruise boats offer special ‘13 July’ dinner cruises, whilst rooftop bars in the 15th and 16th arrondissements are in huge demand, with tickets selling for a fortune, so you can watch the spectacle with a drink in hand, far from the crowds on the ground.

Tuesday 14 July (in the morning): The Military Parade

Photo : Amandine Goetz

The traditional military parade will go ahead on Tuesday 14 July from 10.00 am. After being moved to Avenue Foch in 2024 due to the Olympic Games, the parade returns to its rightful place on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

Key times & Events:

• 09:50 – Arrival of the President of the Republic 
  10:00 – Troop review 
  10:21 – Air display (Patrouille de France) 
  10:28 – Troop march-past (over 6,000 men and women) 
  11:50 – Closing ceremony 

The best spot: Along the entire length of the Champs-Élysées. For a spectacular view of the air show, position yourself at the top of the avenue, near the Arc de Triomphe, or at the Place de la Concorde.

And let’s not forget: the Fire Brigade Balls!

Photo : Amandine Goetz

Whether or not the national holiday is brought forward, the tradition of public dances is still very much alive. Barracks in Paris and the inner suburbs are opening their doors on the evenings of 12 and 13 July so you can dance the night away. It’s the perfect opportunity to keep the magic going after Monday evening’s fireworks display!

Last-minute practical information:
As is the case every year, a large number of metro and RER stations will close from late afternoon on Monday 13 July around the Champ-de-Mars and the Trocadéro (particularly on lines 6, 8, 9 and the RER C). Plan your journeys as far in advance as possible and try to walk when leaving the area!

 

Photo à la Une : Amandine Goetz