15 Best Things to Do in Paris: Must-See Attractions and Experiences
Paris, the enchanting City of Lights, offers an endless array of iconic sights and unforgettable experiences. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and romantic charm, narrowing down a must-see list can feel overwhelming. However, there are certain landmarks that simply can't be missed during your visit to this magical city.
To make your trip easier, we’ve crafted a perfect itinerary featuring the 15 most popular and unmissable attractions in Paris. From world-renowned monuments to hidden gems, this guide will help you explore the best of Paris in style.
To make your trip easier, we’ve crafted a perfect itinerary featuring the 15 most popular and unmissable attractions in Paris. From world-renowned monuments to hidden gems, this guide will help you explore the best of Paris in style.
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Step back in time and marvel at the opulent grandeur of the Palace of Versailles, a stunning example of French Baroque architecture. A must visit!
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15 places
Arc de Triomphe, Paris
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Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, FranceArc 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.
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Champs-Élysées, Paris
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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.
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Eiffel Tower, Paris
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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 the 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, the Eiffel Tower became 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.
Les Invalides, Paris
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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.
Place de la Concorde, Paris
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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.
Tuileries Garden, Paris
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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.
Louvre Museum, Paris
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The Louvre Museum is widely regarded as one of the world's most prestigious art museums, arguably the most significant of all. It is undoubtedly the largest museum globally, and it's no exaggeration to call it extraordinary. Visitors can spend an entire day exploring its vast collections and still not see everything. The museum houses countless masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci's iconic Mona Lisa, perhaps the world's most famous painting. However, the Mona Lisa is just one of many renowned attractions within the museum.
Any summary would fail to capture the true value of the Louvre. However, for visitors with limited time, here is a recommended list of 20 must-see artworks in the museum.
20 Must-See Masterpieces in the Louvre
Any summary would fail to capture the true value of the Louvre. However, for visitors with limited time, here is a recommended list of 20 must-see artworks in the museum.
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
Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, FranceThe Louvre Palace
The Louvre Museum is housed in the Louvre Palace, a masterpiece where majestic architecture meets art. The palace's origins can be traced back to King Philippe-Auguste's (Philippe II) medieval fortress from 1200. However, its transformation into a royal residence began in 1546 when King Francis I commissioned a Renaissance-style palace at this location.
The Louvre's connection to the arts dates back to its inception, as Francis I was an avid art patron and collector. In fact, it was Francis I who invited Leonardo da Vinci to France, where the artist spent his final three years. Francis I also purchased the Mona Lisa, which explains why this Italian masterpiece resides in France.
Over the centuries, successive monarchs expanded and refurbished the Louvre Palace, each adding their personal touch to the grandiose complex. Louis XIII and Louis XIV, who ruled in the 17th century, contributed significantly to the palace's expansion and its growing art collection. The museum opened to the public during the French Revolution, and during Napoleon's reign, only part of the palace was reserved 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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Luxembourg Gardens, Paris
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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.
Pont Alexandre III, Paris
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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, FrancePanthéon, Paris
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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.
Notre Dame, Paris
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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.
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Sainte-Chapelle, Paris
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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.
Sacré-Cœur, Paris
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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.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, Paris
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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.
Palais Garnier, Paris
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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.
Sticky Notes
Transport Travel Cards
See full information about travel passes and prices at the RATP website, the operator of Paris public transport.
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.
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Paris Cruises & Boat Tours Check Availbility
Experience the romance of Paris from the Seine, glide past iconic landmarks and soak in the city's beauty. Highly recommended.
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