Paris, often called the City of Light, is among the world’s most beautiful, historic, and romantic destinations. Its iconic landmarks, charming streets, world-class museums, and exquisite cuisine offer an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, the city’s rich history, artistic legacy, and vibrant culture will leave you mesmerized.
Home to world-famous attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris is a dream destination for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and food connoisseurs. Walk along the Seine River, explore the bohemian charm of Montmartre, or enjoy a decadent French pastry at a charming café—there’s always something magical around every corner.
With so much to see and do, planning your itinerary can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve curated this ultimate guide to the Top 10 Things to Do in Paris, ensuring you experience the best of the city while maximizing your time. Whether you want to take in stunning views from the Eiffel Tower, admire centuries of art at the Louvre, or savor the finest French cuisine on a gourmet food tour, this list will help you make the most of your Parisian adventure.
Ready to explore Paris? Let’s dive into the must-visit attractions, hidden gems, and unforgettable experiences;
1. Visit the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris’s most iconic landmark and one of the world’s most recognized structures. Designed by Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1889, the tower stands at 330 meters tall. Millions of visitors flock to it each year to admire its iron lattice structure and breathtaking views.
Visitors can climb the stairs to the second level or take the elevator to the summit, where they can enjoy a panoramic view of Paris. At night, the tower sparkles for five minutes every hour, thanks to 20,000 twinkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere.
For a unique experience, dine at Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the second floor. Enjoy fine French cuisine with spectacular city views. If you prefer a relaxed setting, have a picnic at Champ de Mars, the green park surrounding the tower.
📌 Book Your Eiffel Tower 2nd Floor Access or Summit Access Now – Skip the line and enjoy priority access!
2. Explore the Louvre Museum
A visit to Paris isn’t complete without stepping inside the Louvre Museum, the world’s most visited museum. Originally a royal palace, the Louvre became a public museum in 1793 and now houses over 35,000 artworks spanning various historical periods.
Its most famous piece is Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, whose mysterious smile attracts millions of visitors. Other must-see exhibits include the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory of Samothrace, and Liberty Leading the People by Delacroix. The Louvre also features impressive collections of Egyptian antiquities, Islamic art, and Renaissance sculptures.
Due to the museum’s vast size, planning ahead is crucial. A guided tour helps you see the highlights efficiently, while an audio guide allows self-paced exploration. The Louvre Pyramid, designed by I.M. Pei, is a striking glass entrance and a landmark in itself.
📌 Book a Skip-the-Line Louvre Museum Ticket – Save time and explore at your own pace!
3. Take a Day Trip to Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is among the world’s most magnificent royal residences, reflecting the grandeur of the French monarchy. Originally a hunting lodge, it was transformed by King Louis XIV into an extravagant palace in the 17th century.
Admire the Hall of Mirrors, a dazzling gallery with 357 mirrors reflecting the grandeur of chandeliers and gilded décor. The Royal Apartments provide insight into the lavish lifestyle of French kings and queens, including Marie Antoinette.
The Gardens of Versailles span 800 hectares and feature beautiful fountains, sculptures, and tree-lined pathways. Renting a bike or taking a boat ride on the Grand Canal offers a scenic way to explore the vast estate. The Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet provide a glimpse into the queen’s private retreat.
📌 Book a Versailles Palace & Gardens Tour – Experience royal history with expert guides!
4. Cruise Along the Seine River
A Seine River cruise is a fantastic way to see Paris from a different perspective. Whether during the day or night, cruises offer a relaxing journey past some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, Musée d’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre.
There are various cruise options. A sightseeing cruise includes live commentary on the city’s history and architecture, while a dinner cruise offers a luxurious meal with champagne, ideal for a romantic evening. Some cruises feature live music or jazz performances, enhancing the experience.
For a more private adventure, consider renting a boat or taking a bateau-mouche tour with panoramic glass views of the Seine’s picturesque riverbanks.
📌 Book a Seine River Cruise with Dinner – A perfect way to experience Paris at night!
5. Walk Through Montmartre & Visit Sacré-Cœur
Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris, is a historic district known for its artistic past, charming streets, and stunning views. This lively neighborhood inspired legendary artists such as Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Henri Toulouse-Lautrec, who captured its unique atmosphere in their works.
At Montmartre’s highest point stands the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a stunning white-domed church offering breathtaking views of the city. Inside, the basilica’s grand mosaic, Christ in Majesty, is among the largest in the world. Nearby, Place du Tertre is a lively square where artists paint portraits and sell artwork.
To soak up Montmartre’s vibrant atmosphere, stroll along Rue Lepic, lined with quaint cafés, bakeries, and hidden gems. Don’t miss Le Consulat Café and La Maison Rose, two of the area’s most photographed spots.
📌 Join a Guided Montmartre Walking Tour – Discover the artistic soul of Paris!
6. Discover the Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
The Champs-Élysées is one of the world’s most famous avenues, stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. This iconic boulevard is lined with luxury boutiques, historic theaters, and bustling cafés. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll, shopping spree, or coffee break at a Parisian café.
At the avenue’s western end, the Arc de Triomphe stands as a tribute to French soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic Wars. Visitors can climb to the top for an incredible panoramic view of Paris. Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a poignant reminder of France’s wartime sacrifices.
📌 Book a Skip-the-Line Ticket to the Arc de Triomphe – Climb to the top for breathtaking views!
7. Visit the Catacombs of Paris
Beneath the bustling streets of Paris lies a fascinating yet eerie attraction—the Catacombs of Paris. These underground tunnels were created in the 18th century to store the remains of over six million Parisians due to overcrowding in cemeteries.
Visitors can walk through dimly lit passageways lined with carefully arranged bones and skulls, creating a macabre yet historical experience. The catacombs offer a unique perspective on Paris’s history, blending architecture, urban planning, and a solemn reflection on mortality.
Since entry is limited, it’s best to book tickets in advance to avoid long waits. A guided tour provides historical insights and ensures you don’t miss key details of this underground labyrinth.
📌 Book a Catacombs Guided Tour – Explore Paris’s underground history with an expert!
8. Enjoy French Cuisine & a Food Tour
Paris is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy neighborhood bistros. Whether you’re indulging in a buttery croissant at a local boulangerie or dining at a world-renowned establishment, the city’s culinary scene is second to none.
A food tour is a fantastic way to explore Paris’s gastronomy. These tours often include visits to traditional markets, bakeries, and fromageries. You’ll have the chance to taste delicacies like escargots, foie gras, and artisanal cheeses, while also learning about the city’s food culture.
For a hands-on experience, consider taking a cooking class. Learn to make classic dishes like French onion soup, boeuf bourguignon, or delicate macarons under the guidance of expert chefs.
📌 Join a Paris Gourmet Food & Wine Tour – Savor the best of French cuisine!
9. Experience the Magic of Disneyland Paris
For a magical escape, head to Disneyland Paris, located just outside the city. This enchanting theme park is a dream destination for visitors of all ages, offering thrilling rides, fairytale castles, and spectacular shows.
Disneyland Paris consists of two parks: Disneyland Park, where beloved Disney characters and attractions come to life, and Walt Disney Studios Park, which showcases the magic of filmmaking and animation. Visitors can enjoy thrilling roller coasters, meet their favorite Disney characters, and watch dazzling parades and fireworks displays.
A short train ride from central Paris makes Disneyland an easy day trip. To make the most of your visit, consider purchasing a fast pass to skip long lines at popular attractions.
📌 Get Your Disneyland Paris Tickets – Enjoy a magical day trip for all ages!
10. Visit Sainte-Chapelle & Île de la Cité
Tucked away on the Île de la Cité, the Sainte-Chapelle is one of Paris’s most breathtaking Gothic masterpieces. Built-in the 13th century by King Louis IX, the chapel is renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows. These windows depict biblical stories and create a mesmerizing display of colors when sunlight filters through.
Just a short walk from Sainte-Chapelle is the Notre Dame Cathedral, another architectural gem. Despite suffering damage from the 2019 fire, Notre Dame remains a symbol of Paris and a testament to Gothic design. Restoration efforts are ongoing, and visitors can still admire its impressive facade and nearby surroundings.
Nearby, the Conciergerie, once a royal palace turned prison, offers a glimpse into Paris’s medieval history. Marie Antoinette was held here before her execution during the French Revolution.
📌 Book a Sainte-Chapelle & Notre-Dame Tour – Witness stunning stained-glass beauty!
Plan Your Trip to Paris
✅ Book in advance to skip the lines and enjoy VIP access!
🏰 Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower and enjoy breathtaking city views.
🎨 Explore world-class art at the Louvre Museum and see the Mona Lisa.
🍷 Indulge in a delicious French food tour with wine, cheese, and pastries.
🚤 Take a scenic Seine River cruise and admire Paris from the water.
🎢 Experience the magic of Disneyland Paris for a fun-filled adventure.
🕍 Discover hidden gems like Sainte-Chapelle with its stunning stained glass.
🛍️ Stroll down the glamorous Champs-Élysées for luxury shopping and cafés.
💀 Uncover the eerie history of the Paris Catacombs on a guided tour.
✅ Book in advance to skip the lines and enjoy VIP access!
–> Book the Best Paris Tours & Activities
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