Cécile Meir
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There are endless and countless incredible things to see and experience in magical Paris, France. Therefore, to try to create a must-see list of places is almost an impossible task. However, while visiting the remarkable City of Lights, and the capital of romance, there are some landmarks you must not miss. To ease you, here is an itinerary with the top 15 not-to-miss places to visit in beautiful Paris.
Accommodation
Our Top 10 Picks for hotels
01
Generator Paris
9-11 Pl. du Colonel Fabien, 75010 Paris, France
In the vibrant 10th arrondissement, Generator Paris fuses chic design and social spaces. Ideal for the spirited traveler, it promises a lively and communal Parisian experience.
02
hotelF1 Paris Porte de Châtillon
23 Av. de la Prte de Châtillon, 75014 Paris, France
Budget simplicity meets convenience at hotelF1 Porte de Châtillon. With practical amenities, it provides a fuss-free and economical choice for a cheerful Parisian adventure.
03
B&B HOTEL Paris Porte des Lilas
23 Av. René Fonck, 75019 Paris, France
Combining affordability with modern comfort, B&B Porte des Lilas ensures a pleasant stay on the northeastern edge of Paris. A practical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
04
Hotel Elysees Union
44 Rue de l'Amiral Hamelin, 75116 Paris, France
Nestled near the Eiffel Tower, Elysées Union Hotel blends comfort with charm. With elegant rooms, impeccable service, and a central location, it's a delightful retreat for exploring Paris.
05
ibis Paris Tour Eiffel Cambronne 15ème
2 Rue Cambronne, 75015 Paris, France
Affordable comfort meets proximity to the iconic Eiffel Tower. Ibis Cambronne offers a lively base, perfect for exploring Paris with ease and returning to a cozy retreat.
06
Motel One Paris-Porte Dorée
295 Av. Daumesnil, 75012 Paris, France
Chic and budget-friendly, Motel One Porte Dorée is a stylish retreat near Bois de Vincennes. Enjoy contemporary design and smart amenities, making your Parisian stay delightful and affordable.
07
citizenM Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport hotel
7 Rue de Rome, 93290 Tremblay-en-France, France
Booking.com | Affordable lodging for an overnight stay near CDG, offering a comfortable, clean, and serene experience. Features a pleasant lobby and an outdoor courtyard.
08
The ReMIX Hotel
28 ter Av. Corentin Cariou, 75019 Paris, France
A trendy escape in the 11th arrondissement, The ReMIX Hotel captivates with modern design and vibrant ambiance. Ideal for those seeking a lively yet comfortable retreat in the city.
09
Hôtel de Crillon
10 Pl. de la Concorde, 75008 Paris, France
A Parisian gem, Hôtel de Crillon exudes timeless elegance. Nestled in Place de la Concorde and near Champs-Élysées, it seamlessly blends historic grandeur with modern luxury. A haven where sophistication meets joy.
10
Hôtel Plaza Athénée
25 Av. Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France
Elegance personified, Hôtel Plaza Athénée enchants on Avenue Montaigne. With iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, this palace of refinement boasts lavish rooms, Michelin-starred dining, and a spa—an idyllic Parisian sanctuary.
Where to Eat
Our Top 10 Picks for restaurants
01
Brasserie Vaudeville
29 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris, France
Timeless elegance on Rue Vivienne. Brasserie Vaudeville enchants with Belle Époque charm. A central location and classic French cuisine make it an iconic Parisian dining destination.
02
Hard Rock Cafe Paris
14 Bd Montmartre, 75009 Paris, France
Rock 'n' roll spirit on Boulevard Montmartre. Hard Rock Cafe Paris delivers a lively atmosphere, iconic memorabilia, and American classics—a vibrant and music-infused dining experience.
03
inavoué restaurant
4 Imp. Gomboust, 75001 Paris, France
A hidden culinary gem in the Marais. inavoué delights with creative and seasonal dishes. Tucked away, it provides an intimate and gastronomic escape in the heart of Paris.
04
Neni Paris
12 Bd de Denain, 75010 Paris, France
A culinary journey at 25hours Hotel Terminus Nord. Neni Paris offers vibrant flavors with a Middle Eastern twist. Its eclectic menu and lively atmosphere create a delightful Parisian experience.
05
Angelina Paris
226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Angelina Paris, a historic tearoom, is famous for its signature hot chocolate and exquisite pastries. Nestled in the heart of Paris, it exudes timeless elegance, inviting patrons to savor a delightful blend of French culinary traditions.
06
Bloom Sushi
99 Rue Jouffroy d'Abbans, 75017 Paris, France
A fusion of flavors in the 8th arrondissement. Bloom Sushi combines Japanese and Mediterranean influences. With elegant decor, it offers a trendy and cosmopolitan Parisian dining experience.
07
L'Empire du 8ème
11 Rue Jean Mermoz, 75008 Paris, France
A gastronomic empire near Parc Monceau. L'Empire du 8ème serves French classics with a modern twist. Its refined ambiance and exquisite cuisine make it an elegant Parisian choice.
08
Market By Chef Jean Georges
15 Av. Matignon, 75008 Paris, France
Culinary excellence at the Hôtel Plaza Athénée. Market by Jean-Georges offers a Michelin-starred experience with innovative dishes. A gastronomic haven for exploring Parisian fine dining.
09
Arpège
84 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France
An organic haven in the 7th arrondissement. Arpège, led by Alain Passard, celebrates seasonal produce. With three Michelin stars, it's a top choice for exquisite and sustainable French cuisine.
10
Tracé
15 Rue de Richelieu, 75001 Paris, France
Contemporary flair near Palais Royal. Restaurant Tracé offers inventive dishes with an artistic touch. A chic and intimate setting, it's perfect for a modern and delightful Parisian meal.
Shopping
Our Top 5 Picks for shopping malls
01
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
40 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France
A Parisian shopping icon on Boulevard Haussmann. Experience luxury shopping with stunning architecture. The rooftop terrace offers breathtaking views—a glamorous destination for fashion enthusiasts.
02
Le Bon Marché
24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris, France
A Left Bank gem, Le Bon Marché is synonymous with Parisian elegance. Shop for luxury goods and indulge in gourmet delights—a sophisticated blend of fashion and gastronomy.
03
Passage du Havre
109 Rue Saint-Lazare, 75009 Paris, France
Near Gare Saint-Lazare, Passage du Havre offers a unique shopping experience. Modern stores, dining options, and a central location make it a convenient and trendy shopping destination.
04
Westfield Forum des Halles
101 Porte Berger, 75001 Paris, France
In the heart of Paris, Forum des Halles combines shopping with urban flair. With a vast underground mall and surrounding districts, it's a bustling hub for diverse retail experiences.
05
Westfield Les 4 Temps
15 Parv. de la Défense, 92092 Puteaux, France
At La Défense, Westfield Les 4 Temps impresses with a vast selection of shops. Its modernity, cinema, and diverse dining make it a dynamic shopping and leisure destination.
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15 places
1
Arc de Triomphe, Paris
Arc de Triomphe is one of France's most notable symbols. It is located in Place Charles de Gaulle and is connected to the famous avenue, Champs-Élysées. Designed by Jean-François Chalgrin and inaugurated in 1836, Arc de Triomphe is approximately 50-meter high, 22 meters wide, and about 45 meters long. The impressive arc was established to respect the fallen French soldiers. Those who died during the Revolution, Napoleonic Wars, and those who fought for the country during those turbulent times. Every day, at 18:30, you will be able to see the flame of remembrance, as a tribute of the French nation in honor of its fallen soldiers.
2
Champs-Élysées, Paris
A world-famous avenue, synonym to luxury, splendor, fashion, and opulence. The 1.9 kilometers splendid avenue is full of grandiose stores, beautiful gardens, and fancy restaurants and cafes.
Champs-Élysées, Paris, France
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3
Eiffel Tower, Paris
La tour Eiffel is more than just a landmark, it's Paris itself. Monumental, full of charm, elegant, romantic, and with outstanding architecture. Built by Gustave Eiffel's company and named after him, the tower was inaugurated in 1889 for Paris World's Fair, Exposition Universelle. The tower was built to mark and honor the 100th year of the end of the French Revolution. While the beginning was controversial, Eiffel Tower becomes one of the most famous and visited monuments in the world. The Eiffel Tower is hypnotizing, it's catching the eye and has a mesmerizing view from above. Therefore, it is most recommended to visit the 2nd and 3rd floors of the tower, to see a breathtaking view of Paris, especially after dark.
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4
Les Invalides, Paris
Les Invalides is a beautifully designed 17th-century complex and landmark in Paris you should not miss. Originally, it serves war veterans and includes a hospital. Today the imposing place is mostly known for Dôme des Invalides, a royal church with a winsome golden dome that serves as Napoleon's last resting place. The place also contains Musée de l'Armée, Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération, and Musée des Plans-Reliefs, all related to France's military history.
5
Place de la Concorde, Paris
Place de la Concorde is a central square in Paris, famous for its beauty, striking obelisk, and winsome fountains. The square is approximately 19 acres and was creatively designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel. Since 1836 the Square contains Luxor Obelisk, which was given as a gift from Egypt and is more than 3,000 years old. The magnificent fountains, Fontaine des Mers and Fontaine des Fleuves, were constructed in 1840, and since then they are a source of pride and joy for the Parisians. During the French Revolution, the square was witness to many noble and royal executions, including Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette. Today, the square is one of Paris's beloved spots and attracts many tourists from all over the world.
6
Tuileries Garden, Paris
Paris at Jardin des Tuileries is one of Paris's most entrancing gardens. The Garden was originally built as part of Queen Catherine de Medici's wish to build a palace in Paris. Thus, Tuileries Palace was constructed in 1564 and remained intact until it was later destroyed by fire in 1871 by the Paris Commune.
The grandiose garden receives its famous contour only a century after. When André Le Nôtre, the landscape architect who also design the exceptional Palace of Versailles's gardens, re-design the garden in 1664. Located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris and near the Louvre, the majestic garden is abundant with green lawns, ponds, trees, flowers, and statues. Open to the public in 1667, the charming Tuileries Garden is locals' and tourists' favorite, and a great way to get acquainted with Paris.
The grandiose garden receives its famous contour only a century after. When André Le Nôtre, the landscape architect who also design the exceptional Palace of Versailles's gardens, re-design the garden in 1664. Located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris and near the Louvre, the majestic garden is abundant with green lawns, ponds, trees, flowers, and statues. Open to the public in 1667, the charming Tuileries Garden is locals' and tourists' favorite, and a great way to get acquainted with Paris.
7
Louvre Museum, Paris
The Louvre Museum is considered one of the most prominent art museums in the world and maybe even the most important of them all. Without any doubt, this is the largest museum in the world and it won't be an exaggeration to say that the Louvre Museum is absolutely incredible. You can spend an entire day at the museum and still not be able to see it all. The museum has countless masterpiece artworks, including, of course, Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, probably the most known painting in the world. However, the Mona Liza is far from being the only famous attraction of the Museum.
Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
20 must-see masterpiece artworks in the Louvre
Any summary will underestimate the value of the Louvre. But if to mention only a fraction of what the visitors can see at the Museum, then here is a recommended list of the 20 must-sees while in the Louvre.
Mona Liza, painted by Leonardo da Vinci
The ancient Greek sculpture of Venus de Milo
The Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Hellenistic sculpture of the goddess of victory, Nike
The Great Sphinx of Tanis
Sleeping Hermaphroditus sculpture
Sarcophagus of the Spouses
The Raft of the Medusa, painted by Théodore Géricault
The Wedding at Cana, painted by Veronese
Psyche Revived by Cupid's Kiss, sculpture by Antonio Canova
Dying Slave, sculpture by Michelangelo
Virgin of the Rocks, painted by Leonardo da Vinci
The Lacemaker, painted by Johannes Vermeer
Woman with a Mirror, painted by Titian
Liberty Leading the People, painted by Eugène Delacroix
The Coronation of Napoleon, painted by Jacques-Louis David
Louis XIV, painted by Hyacinthe Rigaud
The Card Sharp with the Ace of Diamonds, painted by Georges de La Tour
Ship of Fools, painted by Hieronymus Bosch
Death of the Virgin, painted by Caravaggio
The French Crown Jewels
The Louver Palace
The Louver Museum resides in the Louver Palace, which is a masterpiece of majestic architecture meeting art. Built near King Philippe-Auguste's (Philippe II) medieval fortress from the year 1200, the Palace had a modest beginning. It was established in 1546 when King Francis I, asked to build a better royal palace residence in a renaissance style, at this location. The connection of the Louver to the arts was right from the start since Francis I was an avid patron of art and had a passion to collect it. Actually, it was Francis I who invited Leonardo da Vinci to France, where he spent his last three years. Francis I was also the one who originally purchase the Mona Lisa and this is the reason why the brilliant painting is in France and not Italy.
Years went by and the Louver Palace expanded and refurbished with each monarch adding another personal layer of splendor to the grandiose Palace complex. Louis XIII and Louis XIV who ruled in the 17th century had contributed greatly to the Palace's expansion and its art collections. The Museum opens to the public during the French Revelation and during the Napoleon regime, only part of the Palace was for his personal use.
The Palace is artwork for itself and an example of extraordinary architecture. It is recommended not to miss the following:
Galerie d’Apollon, a sumptuous golden gallery that was created by Louis XIV, to strengthen his image as the Sun King.
The lavish Napoleon III Apartments.
The Mobilier des résidences royales, 18th-century royal furniture collation.
The Salle Mollien, the red rooms contain beautiful and large paintings such as The Coronation of Napoleon.
It is most recommended to plan your visit in advance to make sure you'll be able to view the most must-see artworks. Also, make sure you buy your tickets online in advance to save precious time.
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8
Luxembourg Gardens, Paris
Jardin du Luxembourg, spectacular gardens that are full of flowers, statues, lawns, and sitting areas. The enticing gardens were ordered by Queen Marie de Medici, widow of King Henry IV, in 1612, to surround Luxembourg Palace. Today, the gardens are open to all and the Palace becomes the house of the French Senate. It is a must-visit place in Paris and represents well the love of the French to nature, aesthetic and preserving the past.
9
Pont Alexandre III, Paris
Pont Alexandre III is one of Paris's iconic landmarks and maybe the most gorgeous bridge in the city. As nearby Grand Palais and Petit Palais, Pont Alexandre III was built for 1900 Exposition Universelle (Universal Exposition). Impressive sculptures with touches of gold are scattered along the bridge together with splendid Art Nouveau lamps. Pont Alexandre III's central location, and the view of some of Paris's architectural wonders when you cross it, make this bridge a must-see.
Pont Alexandre III, 75008 Paris, France
10
Panthéon, Paris
An exceptional neoclassical building, the Panthéon was formed as a church dedicated to Paris's guardian saint, Saint Geneviève. However, when the place constructions end, the place changed its original course due to the French Revolution and become the last resting place of outstanding and extraordinary French people. Among the notable people that are buried at the Panthéon you may find Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Marie and Pierre Curie and Emile Zola.
11
Notre Dame, Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris is a Gothic Catholic cathedral church and one of the most famous icons of Paris and faith. The Cathedral was built during the middle-ages and has a very long history which entwined with Paris history. It became an icon, also thanks to brilliant Victor Hugo's "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" which excites the imagination of readers since 1831. Unfortunately, the place burned in April 2019 and is undergoing a massive reconstruction. Despite this, the Cathedral and its surrounding are still very much worth watching.
Notre Dame, Paris, France
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12
Sainte-Chapelle, Paris
Sainte-Chapelle is a fine example of a French medieval Gothic chapel. It was a royal chapel, part of Palais de la Cité which serves the kings of France until the 14th century. The small chapel has magnificent architecture and is world-famous for its stunning 13th-century stained glass windows. Those stained glass windows made Sainte-Chapelle a very popular place. Especially during the days when the sun is shining through and the church is lit by beautiful colors and leaves the visitors with an unforgettable experience.
13
Sacré-Cœur, Paris
The importance of Sacré-Cœur Basilica (Basilica of the Sacred Heart), is not only since it is a place of faith. Sacré-Cœur Basilica is located on Butte Montmarte, the second highest place in Paris after the Eiffel Tower. As such, the place provides an astonishing view of Paris. The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre is a Roman Catholic Church with a remarkable interior, organ, and mosaic, and Romano-Byzantine architectural style. Can be seen from afar due to its all-white color from the outside, Sacré-Cœur Basilica which was built in 1919, has also a crypt and a dome that provides a full panoramic view of the city.
14
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Paris
Galeries Lafayette is not only a department store in Paris, it is a symbol of luxury, fashion, and style for more than 120 years. With outstanding design, a spectacular colorful dome, and prestigious brands and products, Galeries Lafayette is a fantastic shopping experience.
15
Palais Garnier, Paris
A stunning opera house, that serves as a home to Opéra national de Paris. The grandiose building gracefully adds another dimension to the excellent opera productions that are held in Palais Garnier. The palatial Palais Garnier open its doors to the public in 1875 and is a central tourist attraction in Paris. The opera house's exterior is famous for its impressive façade with a golden touch that is full of sculptures and symbols. The interior is also exceptional, with an outstanding foyer, grandiose staircase, and the Chagall painting on the main auditorium's ceiling. Even if you are not an opera fan, the place is defiantly worth a visit and a tour.
Transport Travel Cards
See full information about travel passes and prices at the RATP website, the operator of Paris public transport.
Attractions' Tickets
It is recommended to buy tickets to the main attractions in advance. Not only because they are very popular but also due to the Coronavirus restrictions.
We provide an option to buy tickets via GetYourGuide which offers the best prices with free cancellation.
Restaurants and Cafés Tipping
Tipping in France's restaurants or cafés is not a must. However, it will be kind to tip 5% - 10% of the meal's bill if you are satisfied with the service.
Try to Learn Basic French
The Parisians will not expect you to know French, but few basic words will show goodwill and kindness and therefore are appreciated by the locals.
Payments
At shops and grocery stores, prepare your means of payments in advance, Parisians tend to be impatient with delays.