Paris, the city of love, lights, and endless charm, always holds a special place in every traveler’s heart. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine, admiring world-renowned art at the Louvre, or savoring croissants in quaint cafes, Paris offers something magical at every corner.
From its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, this city is a blend of old-world beauty and modern elegance. In this guide, I’m sharing 15 must-do things in Paris, so whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, these activities will make your trip unforgettable.
Eiffel Tower
Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris
| Type | Landmark/Observation Tower |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: The Eiffel Tower, constructed in 1889 for the World’s Fair, was initially criticized but soon became an iconic symbol of Paris and modern engineering. Standing at 324 meters, it was the world’s tallest structure until 1930.
What to Expect: Expect breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, an impressive steel structure, and a fascinating light show in the evening.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 9:30 AM – 11:45 PM. Tickets available for summit or second-floor access.
The Eiffel Tower is an absolute must-see when in Paris! Whether you’re taking in the view from the top or enjoying the sights from the ground, it’s impossible not to be amazed by its grandeur. The tower stands tall over the city and is perfect for photos or a romantic evening. Don’t forget to go up for a breathtaking view of Paris.
Louvre Museum
Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
| Type | Museum |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 4 hours |
History and Significance: Originally a royal palace, the Louvre Museum opened in 1793 and is home to over 380,000 works of art, including the famous Mona Lisa. It represents centuries of European culture and art history.
What to Expect: You’ll see a vast collection of art from antiquity to the 19th century, including works by Da Vinci, Rembrandt, and more.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. Closed on Tuesdays. Book tickets in advance.
A trip to Paris isn’t complete without visiting the Louvre. Home to iconic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, this museum is packed with history and culture. Even if you’re not an art lover, the sheer scale and beauty of the Louvre’s collections will impress you. Take your time to stroll through the galleries or join a guided tour for a more enriching experience.
Montmartre
Address: Montmartre, 75018 Paris
| Type | Historic District |
| Time to Spend | 3 to 4 hours |
History and Significance: Montmartre, once a hub for artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, was an independent village before being absorbed into Paris in 1860. It’s a symbol of creativity and French bohemian life.
What to Expect: Stroll through narrow cobbled streets, visit local galleries, and enjoy the view from Sacré-Cœur. Montmartre still holds its artistic charm.
Visitor Information: Open year-round. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is open from 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM.
Montmartre is where the artistic soul of Paris comes alive. This charming neighborhood is filled with quaint cafes, art studios, and cobbled streets. Wander around, discover local galleries, and visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica for one of the best panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect area to soak in Paris’ bohemian vibes.
Seine River Cruise
Address: Paris, Europe
| Type | River Cruise |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 1.5 hours |
History and Significance: The Seine River has been a major trade route since Roman times and is at the heart of Parisian life, winding through the city and offering views of historic landmarks.
What to Expect: Relax as you sail along the river, passing sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.
Visitor Information: Cruises depart daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Tickets can be bought on-site or online.
A Seine River cruise is a great way to experience Paris from a unique perspective. Drift along the water and enjoy views of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. It’s especially magical at sunset or nighttime when the city’s lights reflect on the water. It’s one of those things that makes you fall in love with the city all over again.
Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Address: Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris
| Type | Historic Avenue & Monument |
| Time to Spend | 1.5 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: The Champs-Élysées, built in the 17th century, is one of the most famous avenues in the world. The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon to honor his victories.
What to Expect: A leisurely walk down a grand avenue lined with luxury stores, with the impressive Arc de Triomphe at the end.
Visitor Information: The Arc de Triomphe is open daily from 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM. Entrance fees apply.
The Champs-Élysées is the perfect place to stroll, shop, or people-watch. This grand avenue is lined with cafes, boutiques, and theatres, leading to the majestic Arc de Triomphe. You can climb up the arch for incredible views of the city and the surrounding boulevards. It’s a great spot to spend a few hours soaking in Parisian elegance.
Palace of Versailles
Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles
| Type | Palace & Gardens |
| Time to Spend | 4 to 6 hours |
History and Significance: Originally a hunting lodge for Louis XIII, Versailles became the extravagant residence of French kings, notably Louis XIV. It symbolizes French monarchy and its excesses.
What to Expect: Tour the opulent palace and its stunning gardens. Don’t miss the Hall of Mirrors and the Trianon Palaces.
Visitor Information: Open daily except Mondays from 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM. Book tickets online to avoid lines.
Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles and step into the grandeur of French royalty. The palace’s opulent architecture and manicured gardens are truly a sight to behold. Don’t miss the Hall of Mirrors, where history was made. It’s just outside Paris but totally worth the short journey. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world!
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
| Type | Cathedral, Free |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Construction began in 1163, and it became a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. It has been a witness to significant historical events, including Napoleon’s coronation.
What to Expect: Admire its stunning facade, intricate stained-glass windows, and serene atmosphere. The area around it offers views of the Seine and Ile de la Cité.
Visitor Information: Open daily, 7:45 AM – 6:45 PM. Currently undergoing restoration; access may be limited.
Despite being under restoration after the fire, Notre-Dame remains one of Paris’ most famous landmarks. The cathedral’s gothic architecture is nothing short of spectacular. Walk around the Ile de la Cité and admire the surrounding gardens, or simply relax by the Seine nearby. Even without entering, the beauty of Notre-Dame is truly captivating.
Le Marais
Address: Le Marais, 75003 Paris
| Type | Historic District & Shopping |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: A historic district, Le Marais is home to the oldest square in Paris, Place des Vosges, and was a fashionable area during the French Revolution.
What to Expect: Wander through trendy boutiques, art galleries, and historic buildings. The area is also known for its vibrant Jewish community and cafés.
Visitor Information: Open year-round, with shops and cafés typically open from 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
Le Marais is the beating heart of Parisian chic. Known for its art galleries, stylish boutiques, and trendy cafés, it’s a district where fashion, history, and culture collide. Don’t forget to stop by the Place des Vosges, one of the oldest squares in Paris, or grab a coffee at one of the neighborhood’s quaint cafés.
Luxembourg Gardens
Address: 75006 Paris
| Type | Public Garden, Free |
| Time to Spend | 1.5 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Built in the 17th century for Marie de’ Medici, these gardens symbolize French classical landscaping and have been a place of leisure for Parisians ever since.
What to Expect: Relax in the beautiful gardens, rent a sailboat for the pond, or simply enjoy the lush green space. It’s peaceful and perfect for unwinding.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM, with varying opening hours in winter.
For a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Paris, head to Luxembourg Gardens. The beautifully manicured lawns, fountains, and flowerbeds offer the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon. You can enjoy a leisurely walk, rent a little sailboat for the pond, or just sit and soak up the beauty around you.
Musée d’Orsay
Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris
| Type | Art Museum |
| Time to Spend | 2 to 3 hours |
History and Significance: A former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay was converted into a museum in 1986. It houses some of the world’s finest Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections.
What to Expect: Marvel at works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas in a stunning Beaux-Arts building. The museum offers a unique collection of 19th-century art.
Visitor Information: Open daily except Mondays, from 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM. Admission fees apply.
If you’re into Impressionist art, the Musée d’Orsay should be on your list. Housed in a stunning former railway station, this museum is home to works by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. The building itself is a masterpiece, and its collection is one of the best in the world.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris
| Type | Historic Cemetery |
| Time to Spend | 1.5 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Opened in 1804, Père Lachaise is the final resting place of famous figures like Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, and Oscar Wilde. It’s a historical treasure trove.
What to Expect: Explore tree-lined paths, visit famous graves, and admire beautiful sculptures. It’s a quiet, reflective place with rich history.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, with extended hours in summer.
For a peaceful, introspective visit, the Père Lachaise Cemetery is a beautiful spot to explore. This serene cemetery is home to the graves of iconic figures like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Édith Piaf. Wander the tree-lined paths, read the epitaphs, and take in the hauntingly beautiful sculptures.
The Catacombs of Paris
Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris
| Type | Underground Cemetery |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 1.5 hours |
History and Significance: The Catacombs were created in the late 18th century due to overcrowded cemeteries. Today, they house the remains of millions of Parisians in an eerie, fascinating setting.
What to Expect: Explore the underground ossuary, marvel at bone arrangements, and learn about the history of this chilling place.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM. Closed on Mondays. Tickets can be bought online in advance.
For a unique, eerie experience, take a tour of the Catacombs of Paris. This underground ossuary is filled with the bones of millions of Parisians, arranged in artistic patterns. It’s an intriguing and slightly unsettling experience, perfect for those with an interest in history and the macabre.
Galeries Lafayette
Address: 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris
| Type | Department Store |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 2 hours |
History and Significance: Established in 1893, Galeries Lafayette is a Parisian institution. Known for its luxurious products and grand architecture, it represents the pinnacle of French retail.
What to Expect: Shop high-end fashion brands, visit the rooftop terrace for stunning city views, and explore the store’s stunning glass dome.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 9:30 AM – 8:00 PM. Closed on Sundays. Visit the rooftop for free views.
For fashion lovers, Galeries Lafayette is a dream come true. This grand department store offers everything from luxury brands to stylish accessories. The building itself is a stunning example of Parisian architecture, and the rooftop terrace provides an amazing view of the city. It’s a perfect place for a shopping spree or a leisurely browse.
Tuileries Gardens
Address: 113 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
| Type | Public Garden |
| Time to Spend | 1 to 1.5 hours |
History and Significance: Once a royal garden, the Tuileries Gardens have been a public space since the French Revolution. They are an embodiment of French garden design.
What to Expect: Take a leisurely walk among sculptures, fountains, and flowers. It’s a great spot to relax or people-watch, right next to the Louvre.
Visitor Information: Open daily from 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM, with extended hours in summer.
Situated between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries Gardens are a peaceful haven in the middle of the city. You can enjoy a relaxing stroll, grab a seat by the fountains, or visit one of the nearby museums. It’s the perfect place to unwind while taking in Paris’ beauty.
Try Parisian Pastries
Address: Various bakeries throughout Paris (e.g., Ladurée, Pierre Hermé)
| Type | Bakery & Pastries |
| Time to Spend | 30 minutes to 1 hour |
History and Significance: French pastries have long been part of Paris’ culinary heritage, with iconic treats like croissants and macarons dating back centuries.
What to Expect: Indulge in delicious pastries like flaky croissants, creamy éclairs, and colorful macarons from renowned pâtisseries around the city.
Visitor Information: Bakeries open daily, with most starting at 7:00 AM. Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Paris is famous for its delicious pastries, and no visit is complete without trying a few! From flaky croissants to colorful macarons, each bite is a taste of heaven. Head to a local bakery and try some of the best pastries in the world. Don’t forget to pair them with a classic Parisian café au lait!
When exploring Europe, Paris often steals the spotlight, but there are so many other fantastic destinations worth considering. If you’re looking for a vibrant city with a rich history and culture, Lisbon in Portugal offers a charming mix of old-world elegance and modern energy.
Similarly, Milan in Italy blends fashion, art, and history, making it a perfect place for those who appreciate design and culture. If ancient history is more your style, Athens in Greece will captivate you with its historical landmarks and stunning Mediterranean views.
And of course, Barcelona in Spain is a must-visit, offering a vibrant arts scene, delicious cuisine, and striking architecture. These cities, like Paris, are filled with unique experiences that will make any trip unforgettable.