Discover the Best Things to Do in Paris, France

Paris is a stunning, vibrant, and diverse city to visit in France. With charming markets, unique experiences, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower, there are countless attractions and activities to explore throughout the city.

This is truly remarkable; however, organizing a trip to Paris can be a challenging endeavor if not planned meticulously.

Therefore, to streamline your journey, here are some must-visit highlights in Paris.

Make the most of your experience as you explore Paris. It is indeed an extraordinary city.

1.) Eiffel Tower

To commence your tour, the iconic Eiffel Tower stands as a quintessential symbol of France, making it one of the premier experiences in Paris.

Historically, the Eiffel Tower sparked significant controversy from its construction to its unveiling during the 1889 Paris Exhibition, with many Parisians initially disapproving of its design. However, it has since received widespread appreciation.

Currently, you can purchase tickets for the Eiffel Tower to access the viewing platforms, where a wealth of information about its construction, design, and historical significance is provided.

The tower consists of three levels that offer breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscapes of Paris, all of which are accessible depending on the type of tickets acquired.

Additionally, the renowned Jules Verne Restaurant located on the second level provides a unique dining experience curated by award-winning chefs. Reservations are highly recommended, as demand is substantial.

2.) Paris River Cruise

Embarking on a cruise along the Seine River is a distinctive experience in Paris. It serves as a fantastic way to view numerous significant attractions.

For an unparalleled experience, consider taking a river cruise at sunset, when the fading light casts a magical glow over Paris.

If you’re seeking a more elongated experience, opt for a dinner cruise in Paris, which takes you past all the key landmarks while providing a sampling of traditional French cuisine. The culinary offerings are satisfactory, but the views and the ambiance along the river more than compensate for it.

It is an extraordinary and memorable experience.

Be sure to reserve your river cruise ahead of time, as spaces tend to fill up quickly, particularly during peak travel seasons.

3.) The Louvre

The Louvre is arguably one of the most prestigious art institutions globally, and visiting it is essential for first-time travelers to Paris.

The museum is characterized by its elegant glass pyramid and ornate architectural structures, located in the former royal palace, Palais du Louvre, which served as a royal residence for over three centuries until its transformation into a museum in 1793.

While the exterior is impressive, the true treasures lie within. The Louvre houses a plethora of permanent exhibits showcasing renowned masterpieces from celebrated artists such as Michelangelo’s Dying Slave, Samothrace’s Winged Victory, and of course, Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

Ensure you acquire timed-entry tickets before your arrival to avoid disappointment, as tickets tend to sell out quickly. You’ll have the opportunity to view the Mona Lisa up close alongside exquisite pieces from diverse cultures and art periods, including ancient Egyptian artifacts and romantic era sculptures showcased within various galleries of the museum.

4.) Sacré-Cœur Basilica

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is hard to miss on the Parisian skyline, particularly as you approach it.

Perched at the highest point in Paris in Montmartre, the Basilica is a gleaming white edifice symbolizing peace, hope, and spiritual serenity, which is breathtaking to behold.

Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by magnificent art and stained glass windows that lend this space a unique character. The interior mosaic is especially noteworthy, contributing to the Basilica’s timeless splendor.

Additionally, the Basilica’s terrace provides spectacular views of the Paris skyline. We recommend visiting around sunset for an unforgettable experience.

5.) Notre Dame Cathedral

Centrally located in Paris, the Notre Dame Cathedral is an iconic landmark. Unfortunately, due to fire damage, public entry is currently prohibited.

Nevertheless, viewing Notre Dame remains one of the top experiences in Paris, particularly for its central location.

Exhibiting elaborate Gothic architecture, the Cathedral is situated on the Île de la Cité, a historic island in the Seine River, easily accessible via the bridges spanning the river.

You’ll encounter a historical location, established by King Louis IX in 1163, with centuries of history embedded within its stonework.

Observe closely to witness architectural transitions from early Gothic to high Gothic, highlighted by a myriad of gargoyles, flying buttresses, and the extraordinary design of its facade.

6.) Jardin du Luxembourg

The Jardin du Luxembourg is more than just a typical park; it holds equal appeal for locals and visitors alike.

This garden has been an integral part of Parisian life since the 17th century, maintaining its design through renovations in the 1800s.

The park offers a beautiful environment for leisurely strolls, featuring numerous rows of blooming flowers and well-maintained pathways to enjoy.

Your visit will be enhanced by the availability of chairs and picnic areas spread throughout the landscape.

Be sure to seek out the octagon-shaped pool with its fountain, the Théâtre du Luxembourg, the historic Fontaine de Medicis from the 17th century, and the Pavillon de la Fontaine, where you can relax with a coffee in an outdoor setting.

Don’t miss the stunning Palais de Luxembourg, the former royal palace, which is truly magnificent.

7.) Montmartre

Montmartre refers not only to the hill but also to the vibrant village where the popular Sacré-Cœur Basilica is situated (which I previously mentioned).

If you’re visiting the Basilica, be sure to explore the wider Montmartre area, which is among the best things to do in Paris for those seeking an enchanting, lively, and unique atmosphere.

This area offers a nostalgic glimpse into the early 20th century when renowned artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso made their mark here.

Currently, the square serves as a popular gathering spot for local artists who engage in open-air exhibitions and live painting sessions for tourists and passersby.

8.) Moulin Rouge

The allure of cabaret is staggering in Paris, especially at the renowned venue, Moulin Rouge.

Located near Montmartre, this iconic establishment is widely popular; and rightfully so.

Moulin Rouge is famed for its distinctive architectural style, energetic parties, and opulent cabaret performances. It is also credited with being the birthplace of the French Cancan, inspiring numerous international artists including Auguste Renoir and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

Make certain you acquire Moulin Rouge tickets in advance, as they consistently sell out quickly. Additionally, this ticket often includes a complimentary glass of champagne.

If you’re interested in adding dinner to your experience, consider this Moulin Rouge ticket that includes dining—it is absolutely extraordinary!

Nearby, you might also explore Café des Deux Moulins, featured in the film Amélie. While the café is charming and worth a visit for movie enthusiasts, culinary expectations should be managed; it is not renowned for exceptional cuisine.

9.) Palace of Versailles

While the Palace of Versailles technically lies outside of Paris, it is a brief 30-minute journey from the city center and is definitely worth visiting.

Our experience at the Palace of Versailles was unforgettable, reflecting the grandeur and authority of the French monarchy prior to the French Revolution.

Constructed in the 17th century, this opulent estate was initially King Louis XIII’s hunting lodge and later served as the royal residence for Louis XIV and his successors.

In addition to its splendid Rococo and Baroque architecture, the palace is celebrated for its enchanting gardens, intricate buildings, and valuable Renaissance artworks. Expect to spend an entire day here, so it is advisable to plan your visit accordingly.

Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, which showcases Louis XIV’s accomplishments, as well as the Queen’s chamber.

To avoid long entry lines, be sure to secure a skip-the-line palace ticket in advance. This ensures you can enter directly into the Palace of Versailles without delay.

10.) Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is an impressive archway that was constructed in 1806 to honor French soldiers who served during the Napoleonic Wars.

This iconic monument has stood the test of time and is one of the essential sites to visit in Paris.

Rising to a height of 50 meters, the arch showcases stunning engravings that depict the journeys and victories of the French military. It has also been the site of many significant national commemorations, such as Fête de la Victoire.

For a memorable experience, consider booking this Arc de Triomphe Rooftop ticket.

This ticket enables access to the rooftop platform, which offers stunning views of the avenues connected to the Place de l’Étoile, Champs-Élysées, and even the Louvre—definitely worth the visit.

11.) Panthéon

Situated in the city’s heart, a visit to the Panthéon is a grand and opulent experience you won’t want to miss in Paris.

This national mausoleum was constructed on the site of the ruins of Sainte-Geneviève Abbey; a site rich in history dating back to the reign of King Louis XV.

Within the crypt, notable French figures are interred, including Marie Curie and philosophers like Voltaire and Jean-Jacques Rousseau, along with famous authors such as Alexandre Dumas and Victor Hugo.

For those adventurous, the building also provides access to a balcony featuring panoramic vistas of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

12.) Marché de Montorgueil

If you are eager to explore some of the wonderful markets in Paris, ensure you visit bustling spots like Marché de Montorgueil.

Every Thursday and Sunday, the streets of Rue Montorgueil come alive with vendors and vibrant community activity.

You can discover stalls offering local cheeses, champagne, fresh escargot, and even vintage clothing. It is a lively experience that is both fun and engaging.

We particularly enjoyed this wine and cheese tour around Montorgueil guided by an excellent host who helped us sample local delicacies from the region.

Make sure to book tour tickets in advance due to limited availability.

13.) Petit Palais Art Museum

If you appreciate museums, visiting the Petit Palais, located adjacent to the Grand Palais, is a must.

Inside, a variety of permanent and temporary exhibitions often escape public attention compared to the Louvre, making it a unique experience. Explore the different rooms and appreciate the art within.

14.) The Centre Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou stands out due to its distinct architectural design, making it a notable venue you cannot miss.

To enhance your visit, consider acquiring fast-track tickets to bypass the ticket queues.

Your excursion will introduce you to modern art pieces and exhibitions that should not be overlooked; it is advisable to allocate a couple of hours to fully appreciate the offerings.

15.) Musee Grevin

Dating back to the 1800s, the Musee Grevin provides a fascinating look into the world of wax figures and is renowned globally.

Upon entry, the museum features countless wax depictions of both contemporary and historical figures from around the globe.

Among them are celebrated French artists, scholars, musicians, and more.

Afterward, take a relaxing stroll to Galeries Lafayette for an iconic shopping experience, complete with breathtaking views from the upper levels—just remember to take along some spending money.

16.) Statue of Liberty

Indeed, you can visit the Statue of Liberty in Paris.

A gift to the French from the United States, the Statue of Liberty is prominently located along the River Seine.

A brief stop of just 5-10 minutes is all you require to admire it, but it’s a noteworthy highlight while crossing over the Pont de Grenelle.

17.) Catacombs of Paris

While it may not seem obvious, visiting the Catacombs of Paris is a unique and memorable experience.

This underground site, located just south of the Jardin de Luxembourg, houses the remains of over six million individuals in its ossuaries. You can explore the tunnels and learn about the history that led to the placement of these remains here.

Though it might sound slightly eerie, it indeed provides a truly distinctive experience.

18.) Opera Garnier

Constructed in the 1800s, a visit to the Palais Garnier should be on your itinerary when exploring Paris, especially if you are an opera enthusiast.

Additionally, you can purchase entry tickets to navigate through the beautiful halls and learn more about the operatic performances held here.

This venue stands as one of the most magnificent buildings in Paris, and its grandeur is not to be missed.