Paris is a city that never stops evolving, yet somehow always remains timeless. Whether you’re dreaming of your first view of the Eiffel Tower, planning to lose yourself in the Louvre, or hoping to discover hidden gems in the winding streets of Montmartre, I’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything from iconic landmarks to off-the-beaten-path treasures. We’ll dive into the best museums, indulge in mouthwatering cuisine, and even discover free activities for the budget-conscious traveler. Plus, I’ll share some insider tips to help you experience Paris like a local.
🏡 Where to stay in Paris:
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Le Bristol Paris
- ✨ 5-Star: Shangri-La Hotel, Paris
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Malte - Astotel
- 💸 Cheap: hotelF1 Paris Porte de Châtillon
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel
👩🏻 Best guided tours:
- Skip-the-Line Louvre Museum Walking Tour including Venus de Milo and Mona Lisa Bypass the long queues and explore the Louvre’s masterpieces with an expert guide. Perfect for art enthusiasts and first-time visitors wanting to see the museum’s highlights efficiently.
- Paris Hidden Montmartre Small Group Walking Tour Discover the charming streets and hidden gems of Montmartre on this intimate walking tour. Ideal for those seeking to explore Paris’s artistic heritage and local culture off the beaten path.
- Paris City Segway Tour Glide through Paris’s iconic landmarks on this fun and efficient Segway tour. Great for active travelers who want to cover more ground than a walking tour while enjoying the open air.
- Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour Experience Paris from a unique perspective on this scenic river and canal cruise. Perfect for photographers and those seeking a relaxing way to see the city’s highlights.
- Climbing Experience in Paris at the Eiffel Tower Challenge yourself with this exhilarating climb up the Eiffel Tower. Ideal for adventure seekers and those wanting a unique, active experience of Paris’s most famous landmark.
Best Things to Do in Paris – Top Attractions
1. Eiffel Tower: The Iron Lady
The Eiffel Tower, Paris’s most iconic landmark, stands proudly at 324 meters tall, offering breathtaking views of the City of Light. As you ascend this architectural marvel, you’ll be following in the footsteps of over 250 million visitors since its opening in 1889. The tower’s intricate lattice design, consisting of 18,000 metal pieces joined by 2.5 million rivets, is a testament to 19th-century engineering prowess.
From the first floor’s glass floor to the panoramic views from the summit, each level offers a unique perspective of Paris. I recommend timing your visit for sunset, when the city is bathed in golden light and the tower itself begins its dazzling light show. For an unforgettable experience, book a table at the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne restaurant on the second floor, where you can savor exquisite French cuisine with a side of spectacular views.
⭐ Best activities
Climbing Experience at the Eiffel Tower Challenge yourself with an exhilarating climb up the iconic Eiffel Tower. Perfect for adventure seekers looking for a unique perspective of Paris.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
2. Louvre Museum: A Treasure Trove of Art
The Louvre, once a royal palace and now the world’s largest art museum, is a must-visit for any art enthusiast. Home to over 35,000 works of art, including the enigmatic Mona Lisa and the graceful Venus de Milo, the Louvre’s collection spans from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century. The museum’s iconic glass pyramid, designed by I.M. Pei, serves as a modern contrast to the historic Palais du Louvre.
Inside, you’ll find yourself wandering through centuries of human creativity, from Egyptian antiquities to Renaissance masterpieces. Don’t miss the opulent Apollo Gallery, with its frescoed ceiling and glittering crown jewels. While it’s impossible to see everything in one visit, I suggest focusing on a few key areas that interest you most. The Louvre at night, when the courtyard is illuminated and the crowds have thinned, offers a magical and less crowded experience.
⭐ Best activities
Seine River Dinner Cruise Enjoy a romantic evening on the Seine with dinner, live music, and stunning views of illuminated Parisian landmarks.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
3. Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral: Gothic Masterpiece
Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, has stood as the heart of Paris for over 850 years. Despite the devastating fire in 2019, the cathedral’s majestic facade, with its intricate sculptures and imposing towers, continues to inspire awe. The ongoing restoration efforts are a testament to the cathedral’s enduring importance to Parisian culture and history.
While the interior remains closed for renovation, a walk around the Île de la Cité allows you to appreciate the cathedral’s external beauty and its picturesque setting on the Seine. Take time to notice the detailed stone carvings, the famous rose windows, and the iconic flying buttresses. The nearby Square Jean XXIII offers a tranquil spot to contemplate this UNESCO World Heritage site and imagine its future glory once restoration is complete.
⭐ Best activities
Notre-Dame Walking Tour with Crypt Entry Discover the history and architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral on this informative walking tour, including access to the ancient crypt.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
4. Arc de Triomphe: Monumental Glory
The Arc de Triomphe, standing proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, is a monumental tribute to those who fought for France. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, this 50-meter tall arch offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris. The intricate sculptural groups on the arch’s pillars tell the story of French military prowess and commemorate key moments in the nation’s history.
Climbing to the top rewards you with a stunning 360-degree view of Paris, where you can trace the twelve radiating avenues that form the étoile (star) around the monument. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath the arch, with its eternal flame, adds a solemn note to your visit. I recommend visiting at dusk when the avenue comes alive with lights and you can witness the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling display from a unique vantage point.
⭐ Best activities
Arc de Triomphe and Seine River Cruise Combine two iconic Parisian experiences with skip-the-line access to the Arc de Triomphe and a scenic Seine river cruise.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
5. Champs-Élysées: Parisian Elegance
The Champs-Élysées, often called “the world’s most beautiful avenue,” stretches for nearly two kilometers from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. This tree-lined boulevard embodies Parisian elegance and joie de vivre, hosting everything from luxury boutiques and flagship stores to historic cafés and theaters. The avenue plays a central role in national celebrations, most notably as the finale of the Tour de France and the backdrop for Bastille Day parades.
As you stroll along this famous street, you’ll pass by architectural gems like the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais. Take time to people-watch from one of the many café terraces, perhaps the historic Fouquet’s or the art deco-styled Le Fouquet’s Barrière. For a taste of Parisian culture, catch a show at one of the avenue’s theaters or cinemas. The Champs-Élysées truly comes alive at night when the trees are illuminated and the energy of Parisian nightlife takes over.
6. Musée d’Orsay: Impressionist Paradise
Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is a treasure trove of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. The museum’s collection bridges the gap between the Louvre and modern art, focusing on the revolutionary period from 1848 to 1914. As you wander through its beautifully renovated galleries, you’ll encounter iconic works by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and many others.
The building itself is a work of art, with its magnificent clock face offering a unique view of Sacré-Cœur across the river. Don’t miss the top floor, where natural light streams in through the original station roof, illuminating some of the most famous paintings in the world. I recommend spending time in the sculpture court on the ground floor, where Rodin’s masterpieces stand against the backdrop of the ornate station architecture. The museum’s café, behind the giant clock face, offers a perfect spot for a coffee break with a view.
⭐ Best activities
Skip-the-Line: Musée d'Orsay Admission Explore one of Paris’s most beloved museums without the wait, featuring an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
7. Sainte-Chapelle: A Gothic Gem
Sainte-Chapelle, tucked away within the Palais de Justice complex on the Île de la Cité, is a masterpiece of Rayonnant Gothic architecture. Built in the 13th century to house Christ’s Crown of Thorns, this royal chapel is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows. As you enter the lower chapel, you’re greeted by a richly decorated ceiling and columns adorned with fleurs-de-lis.
But it’s the upper chapel that truly takes your breath away. Fifteen towering stained glass windows, comprising 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments, encircle the room, bathing it in a kaleidoscope of colored light. The effect is nothing short of magical, especially on a sunny day when the light streams through, illuminating the biblical stories depicted in the glass. I recommend visiting in the late afternoon when the sun is low, casting a warm glow through the western rose window. Don’t forget to look up at the vaulted ceiling, painted to resemble a star-studded sky.
⭐ Best activities
Île de la Cité Tour: Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, and Conciergerie Discover the heart of Paris on this comprehensive tour of Île de la Cité’s most significant historical and architectural landmarks.
8. Palace of Versailles: Royal Splendor
The Palace of Versailles, located just outside Paris, is the epitome of royal grandeur and a testament to the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime. Originally a hunting lodge, it was transformed by Louis XIV into a lavish palace that became the seat of French political power from 1682 to 1789. The sheer scale and opulence of Versailles is awe-inspiring, from the glittering Hall of Mirrors to the meticulously manicured gardens.
As you tour the State Apartments, you’ll be immersed in 17th and 18th-century French art and design, with each room more sumptuous than the last. The Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, is undoubtedly the highlight, with its 357 mirrors reflecting the light from 17 arched windows. Outside, the gardens are a masterpiece of landscape design, featuring ornate fountains, grand perspectives, and hidden groves. I recommend spending at least half a day here, allowing time to explore the main palace, the gardens, and the Grand Trianon. If you visit in summer, don’t miss the Musical Fountains Show, where the gardens come alive with music and water displays.
⭐ Best activities
Skip-the-Line: Palace of Versailles Tour Explore the opulent Palace of Versailles without the long queues on this guided tour of the former royal residence.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
Things To Do in Paris with Kids
1. Luxembourg Gardens: A Green Oasis
The Luxembourg Gardens, located on the Left Bank, is one of the best places in Paris for kids to burn off energy. This expansive park, once the garden of a royal palace, is now a favorite playground for Parisian families. Here’s what you’ll find:
- A vintage carousel that’s been delighting children since the 19th century
- Charming puppet shows at the historic puppet theater
- Pony rides around the park
- Toy sailboats to rent for the grand basin – a Parisian tradition since the 1920s
- Playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing frames
After playtime, take a stroll through the orchard or the apiary to learn about beekeeping.
2. Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
For curious minds, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in the Parc de la Villette is easily one of the best science museums in the world. This futuristic building is home to interactive exhibits that make learning fun. Kids can explore a submarine, experiment with light and sound, and even learn about the human body in a giant brain-shaped structure. The planetarium offers an out-of-this-world experience with its immersive shows about space and the universe.
Time Saver: Book tickets online to avoid queues. Plan to spend at least half a day here – there’s so much to see and do!
⭐ Best ticket – Check Availability
3. Seine River Cruise
A boat trip along the Seine is one of the best ways to explore Paris with kids. As you glide along the river, you’ll pass under the famous bridges of Paris and get unique views of iconic landmarks. Many cruises offer special commentary for kids, pointing out gargoyles on Notre-Dame or explaining why the Louvre looks like a glass pyramid. It’s a relaxing way to see the sights while giving little legs a rest.
Money Saver: Look for combo tickets that include a Seine cruise with other tourist attractions for better value.
⭐ Best activities
Seine River Dinner Cruise Indulge in a gourmet 3-course dinner while cruising along the Seine, taking in the illuminated sights of Paris by night.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
4. Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou, with its colorful exterior that looks like a giant Lego construction, is a hit with kids before you even step inside. This modern art museum is surprisingly family-friendly, with the Galerie des Enfants offering interactive exhibitions designed specifically for young visitors. Even in the main galleries, kids will be intrigued by the bold colors and unusual shapes in the modern art collection.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the view from the top floor – it’s one of the best views of Paris, rivaling even the Eiffel Tower.
⭐ Best activities
Paris Highlights: 30+ Sights Tour Cover the best of Paris in one comprehensive tour, seeing over 30 major sights and hidden gems with an expert guide.
Or buy tickets online – Check Availability
Free Things to Do in Paris
1. Iconic Landmarks and Views
One of the best things about Paris is that many of its most famous landmarks are free to admire from the outside. Start with the Eiffel Tower – while going up costs money, viewing it from the Champ de Mars won’t cost you a cent. I recommend visiting at night when the tower sparkles on the hour, offering a magical light show that’s truly one of the best views in Paris.
Next, head to Notre Dame de Paris. While the interior is still closed for renovation, the exterior of this Gothic masterpiece is a sight to behold. Wander around the island it sits on, Île de la Cité, one of the oldest parts of Paris.
Top Tip: For one of the best spots to see Paris, climb to the top of Montmartre, the highest hill in Paris. The view from the steps of Sacré-Cœur basilica is breathtaking and completely free.
2. Museums and Culture
Paris is home to many world-class museums, and while most charge admission, there are ways to visit for free:
- Musée d’Art Moderne: Free access to permanent collections all year
- Musée Carnavalet: Showcases the history of Paris and is always free
- Petit Palais: Houses an impressive collection of fine art, free entry
- Maison de Victor Hugo: Explore the former home of the famous author for free
Money Saver: Many museums, including the Louvre and Centre Pompidou, offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
3. Parks and Gardens
The parks of Paris are the city’s green lungs and offer a perfect escape from the urban hustle. Luxembourg Gardens is a favorite, with its manicured lawns and picturesque fountains. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement is less touristy but equally beautiful, featuring a lake and a temple perched on a cliff.
For a unique experience, check out the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, an elevated park built on an old railway line. It’s a tranquil green space that offers a different perspective on the city.
4. Neighborhoods and Street Art
One of the best ways to experience Paris is simply by wandering its diverse neighborhoods. Le Marais is one of my favorites, with its narrow medieval streets and trendy boutiques. The Latin Quarter, home to the Sorbonne University, buzzes with youthful energy and is perfect for people-watching.
For art lovers, the streets of Paris are an open-air gallery. The 13th arrondissement is known for its large-scale murals, while Montmartre and Belleville offer a more eclectic mix of street art styles.
Insider Tip: Join a free walking tour to get oriented and learn about the city’s history. Many tours operate on a tip-based system, allowing you to pay what you think it’s worth.
5. Markets and Food Experiences
While eating at Paris’s renowned restaurants can be pricey, exploring its markets is free and offers a feast for the senses. The Marché d’Aligre in the 12th arrondissement is one of the best, offering a mix of covered and open-air stalls selling everything from fresh produce to antiques.
For a budget-friendly taste of Paris, pick up a baguette from a local boulangerie, some cheese from a fromagerie, and have a picnic by the Seine. The banks of the river are lined with locals doing just this on warm evenings.
Seasonal Activities in Paris
🌸 Spring: Blossoms and Outdoor Delights
As Paris shakes off its winter chill, the city bursts into bloom. One of the best things to do in spring is to visit the Luxembourg Gardens or the Jardin des Tuileries. These parks come alive with colorful flowers and the sweet scent of cherry blossoms. It’s the perfect time for a picnic by the Seine, watching boats glide by as you enjoy some delicious Paris food.
Insider Tip: Check out the annual Paris Marathon in April. Even if you’re not running, the atmosphere across the city is electric.
☀️ Summer: Festivals and Open-Air Cinema
Summer in Paris is magical. The days are long, and the city buzzes with energy. One of my favorite summer activities is Paris Plages (typically mid-July to mid-August), where the banks of the Seine transform into urban beaches. It’s surreal to see people sunbathing with a view of Notre Dame in the background!
Don’t miss these summer highlights:
Fête de la Musique (June 21): Free concerts across the city Bastille Day (July 14): Spectacular fireworks at the Eiffel Tower Open-air cinema at Parc de la Villette (typically July to August): Watch films under the stars Rock en Seine music festival (typically late August): One of Paris’s biggest music events
Money Saver: Many summer events, like Paris Plages and the open-air cinema, are completely free!
🍁 Autumn: Cultural Delights and Cozy Cafés
As the leaves turn golden, Paris takes on a romantic, melancholic air. It’s the perfect time to explore the city’s world-class museums. The Louvre and Musée d’Orsay are must-visits, but don’t overlook smaller gems like the Musée Picasso Paris or the Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris.
Autumn is also when Paris’s café culture really shines. There’s nothing better than ducking into a cozy café in Le Marais or the Latin Quarter for a steaming cup of chocolat chaud as you watch the world go by.
Top Tip: Look out for the Nuit Blanche festival in October (typically the first Saturday in October), when museums and galleries stay open all night with special exhibitions and performances.
❄️ Winter: Festive Magic and Culinary Indulgence
Winter in Paris is all about embracing the cozy and the festive. The city lights up with dazzling Christmas decorations, and charming Christmas markets pop up across town (typically from late November to early January). Ice skating rinks appear in unexpected places – I once skated on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower!
Winter is also the perfect time to indulge in hearty Parisian cuisine. Warm up with a bowl of French onion soup or treat yourself to a decadent hot chocolate at Angelina, a historic tearoom that’s been serving Parisians since 1903.
Fun Fact: The Eiffel Tower’s twinkling light show, which happens every hour on the hour after dark, was originally created to celebrate the new millennium in 2000. It was so popular that it became a permanent feature!
Day Trip from Paris
1. Versailles: Royal Grandeur
Just a short train ride from the center of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous sites in France and a must-visit destination. This opulent château, once home to Louis XIV, the “Sun King,” is a testament to the extravagance of French royalty.
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss at Versailles:
- The Hall of Mirrors: One of the most recognizable rooms in the world
- The King’s and Queen’s State Apartments
- The stunning Gardens of Versailles
- Marie Antoinette’s Estate, including the charming Petit Trianon
Time Saver: Book your tickets online in advance to skip the often lengthy queues.
⭐ Best activities
Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour Experience the grandeur of Versailles with a guided tour of the palace’s opulent interiors and beautifully manicured gardens.
2. Giverny: Monet’s Inspiration
Art lovers, this one’s for you! Giverny, the home and gardens of Impressionist master Claude Monet, is like stepping into one of his paintings. The famous water lily pond and Japanese bridge are instantly recognizable from Monet’s works. The vibrant colors of the flower gardens are a feast for the eyes and a photographer’s dream.
Insider Tip: Visit in late spring or early summer when the gardens are in full bloom.
⭐ Best activities
Giverny and Monet's House Half-Day Trip Visit Claude Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny, inspiration for many of his famous paintings, on this convenient half-day trip from Paris.
3. Champagne Region: Bubbly Delights
For a taste of the finer things in life, head to the Champagne region. Just a quick train ride from Paris, you can explore the rolling vineyards, visit world-famous champagne houses, and of course, sample some of the best bubbly in the world.
I recommend visiting both a large, well-known house like Moët & Chandon in Epernay, and a smaller, family-run producer for contrast. The town of Reims, with its stunning Gothic cathedral (where French kings were once crowned), is also worth a visit.
4. Disneyland Paris: Magic for All Ages
If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids (or kids at heart), Disneyland Paris is a great option. Just 32 km from the city center, it’s easy to reach and offers a full day of entertainment. From classic Disney rides to spectacular shows, it’s a magical experience that rivals its American counterparts.
Money Saver: Book tickets online in advance for better rates.
⭐ Best activities
Disneyland Paris 1-Day Ticket Experience the magic of Disneyland Paris with this one-day admission ticket, perfect for families and Disney fans of all ages.
5. Fontainebleau: A Less Crowded Royal Experience
Often overlooked in favor of Versailles, the Château de Fontainebleau offers a more relaxed royal experience. This UNESCO World Heritage site has been a residence of French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III. The château is surrounded by beautiful gardens and the Fontainebleau forest, perfect for a peaceful walk after exploring the palace.
⭐ Best activities
Fontainebleau Hot Air Balloon Ride Soar above the beautiful Fontainebleau forest in a hot air balloon, offering breathtaking views of the French countryside near Paris.
6. Chartres: Gothic Masterpiece
The town of Chartres, about an hour from Paris, is home to one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture – the Chartres Cathedral. Its soaring spires and intricate stained glass windows (many dating back to the 13th century) are truly awe-inspiring.
Top Tip: Try to time your visit for a candlelit evening tour of the cathedral – it’s a magical experience.
7. Provins: Medieval Time Travel
Step back in time with a visit to Provins, a well-preserved medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets, climb the ramparts for panoramic views, and don’t miss the impressive Tour César, a 12th-century tower.
During summer, Provins hosts medieval festivals complete with jousting tournaments and falconry displays, offering a vivid glimpse into life in the Middle Ages.
FAQ about Things To Do in Paris ❔
What shouldn’t I miss in Paris?
The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral are iconic must-see tourist attractions in Paris. Don’t forget to explore charming neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais, and take a leisurely stroll along the Seine River.
Is 3 days enough for Paris?
Three days in Paris allows you to see the main highlights and get a taste of the city’s atmosphere. However, to fully explore Paris’s diverse neighborhoods, museums, and culinary scene, a longer stay of 5-7 days would be ideal.
What French should I know before going to Paris?
Essential French phrases include “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), “S’il vous plaît” (please), and “Parlez-vous anglais?” (Do you speak English?). Learning basic numbers, how to order food, and ask for directions will also greatly enhance your Paris experience.
What to be careful in Paris?
Be wary of pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation. Stay alert for common scams targeting tourists, such as the “gold ring” trick or petition scams, and always keep your belongings close and secure.
What food should you not miss in Paris?
Don’t leave Paris without trying classic French dishes like croissants, baguettes, escargot, and coq au vin. Make sure to indulge in Parisian café culture with a café au lait and macaron, and sample local cheeses and wines for a true taste of French cuisine.
