Discover the Top 10 Things to Do in Paris

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Paris, the City of Lights, is a place full of history, art, and beauty. From famous landmarks to hidden streets, there’s something for everyone. This guide will show you the 10 best things to do in Paris, so you can make the most of your trip.

Explore the Charm of Montmartre

Montmartre is a beautiful hillside area that gives you amazing views of Paris. In the past, famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh found ideas in its streets. Even today, you can see artists creating new works. The bohemian spirit of Montmartre dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was a hub for avant-garde artists. The cheap rents at the time attracted struggling painters, writers, and musicians, creating a creative melting pot that would shape modern art.​

Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Visit this important church at the top of the hill. Its white domes, inspired by Byzantine architecture, stand out against the Parisian skyline. Construction began in 1875, in the wake of the Franco-Prussian War, as a symbol of national penance. The interior is equally stunning, with intricate mosaics covering the walls, including a large depiction of Christ in Majesty. The view from the steps is unparalleled, offering a 360-degree panorama of the city, especially magical at sunset when the light bathes the rooftops in a golden glow.​

Church of Saint-Pierre: Check out this church next to the basilica. Dating back to the 12th century, it has a rich history. It was rebuilt in the 19th century but retains some of its original features, such as the Romanesque bell tower. The interior is more understated than Sacré-Cœur but has beautiful stained glass windows and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a quiet retreat from the bustling crowds nearby.​

Montmartre Museum: Explore the small vineyards near this museum. The museum is housed in a 17th-century mansion that once belonged to a wealthy banker. It showcases the history and art of Montmartre, with works by local artists and artifacts from the area’s bohemian past. The adjacent vineyard, Clos Montmartre, is a tiny plot of land that has been producing wine since the Middle Ages. Every year, there’s a harvest festival here, and the wine produced is sold at auction, with proceeds going to local charities.​

Moulin Rouge: See the birthplace of the French cancan dance at the bottom of the hill. Now, it’s a popular show for tourists. The iconic red windmill has been a symbol of Montmartre’s nightlife since 1889. The cancan, with its high kicks and energetic moves, was considered scandalous when it first appeared but quickly became a sensation. The current show at Moulin Rouge is a spectacular mix of song, dance, and elaborate costumes, keeping the tradition alive while adding modern elements.​

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Visit the Iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral​

Notre-Dame de Paris is a famous church on an island in the middle of Paris. The island is called Île de la Cité. This old church is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its pointed arches, flying buttresses, and intricate gargoyles. It was finished in the 13th century after nearly 200 years of construction. Napoleon used the cathedral to crown himself emperor in 1804, a grand ceremony that was immortalized in Jacques-Louis David’s painting. The church is also known for the story of the Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo, which played a crucial role in saving the cathedral from decay. In the 19th century, when the building was in a state of disrepair, Hugo’s novel sparked public interest, leading to a major restoration project.​

Tragically, a fire in 2019 damaged parts of the cathedral, including the roof and spire. However, restoration work is underway, and it’s set to reopen in 2024. Even during the restoration, the exterior remains impressive, and visitors can still appreciate the stunning rose windows, which are among the finest examples of medieval stained glass in the world. The north rose window, created in the 13th century, depicts scenes from the Old Testament, while the south rose window features New Testament stories.​

Conciergerie: Go to this former royal palace and prison nearby. It was used during the French Revolution. Originally part of the royal residence, it was converted into a prison in the 14th century. During the Reign of Terror (1793-1794), hundreds of prisoners, including Marie Antoinette, were held here before being sent to the guillotine. Marie Antoinette’s cell has been preserved, offering a poignant glimpse into her final days. The Conciergerie also has a beautiful Gothic hall, the Salle des Gardes, with its massive stone pillars and vaulted ceiling.​

Go underground and see the Catacombs of Paris. These tunnels hold the remains of over six million people. In the 18th century, the remains were moved here from Paris cemeteries, which had become overcrowded and unsanitary, posing a health risk to the city. The process of transferring the bones took decades, with workers carefully arranging them into the macabre yet fascinating displays seen today.​

As you walk through the tunnels, which stretch for over 200 miles (though only a small portion is open to the public), you’ll see signs that tell you what streets are above you. You’ll also see where the remains came from, with plaques indicating the original cemetery. The walls of the catacombs are lined with skulls and bones, arranged in patterns such as crosses and hearts, a eerie testament to the city’s past. There are also interesting historical artifacts, such as old signs and tools used in the construction of the tunnels, which were originally quarries for limestone used in building Paris.​

One of the most famous spots in the catacombs is the ossuary of the Port-Mahon, where the bones are arranged in a particularly artistic way. There’s also a small museum that explains the history of the catacombs and the process of transferring the remains.​

Marvel at the Eiffel Tower​

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. It is also the most-visited paid place. It stands 1,063 feet tall, making it the tallest building in Paris. Gustave Eiffel’s company built it for the World’s Fair in 1889, which marked the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. When it was first built, it was controversial, with many Parisians considering it an eyesore. Some of the leading artists and intellectuals of the time even signed a petition against it, calling it a “monstrous iron structure.” However, it quickly became a symbol of Paris and a engineering marvel.​

People were supposed to take it down after the fair, but its usefulness as a radio antenna saved it. Over the years, it has served as a radio tower, a weather station, and even a military observation post during World War I. The tower has three floors. You can climb 674 steps to the second floor or take the elevator. The first floor has a glass floor, which offers a thrilling view of the ground below, and a museum about the tower’s history. The second floor has panoramic views of the city, with informational panels identifying the major landmarks.​

There’s even a secret apartment at the top that Eiffel built for himself. It’s a small space, furnished with a desk, chairs, and a piano, where Eiffel would host guests such as Thomas Edison. The apartment is not open to the public, but there’s a replica on the first floor that gives visitors an idea of what it looked like.​

Immerse Yourself in Museums​

Paris has over 100 museums, making it a paradise for art and history lovers.​

Louvre: This is the world’s largest art museum. It was once a royal palace, and its transformation into a museum began during the French Revolution. It has famous works like Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, which attracts millions of visitors each year. The Mona Lisa is known for her enigmatic smile and the innovative techniques da Vinci used, such as sfumato, which creates a soft blur around the edges. Other masterpieces in the Louvre include the Venus de Milo, a Greek statue from the 2nd century BC, and Winged Victory of Samothrace, a Hellenistic sculpture. Start your visit by walking through the glass pyramid, which was added in 1989 and has become an iconic part of the museum’s entrance.​

Les Invalides: See buildings and monuments about French military history. The complex was founded by Louis XIV in 1670 as a hospital and retirement home for disabled soldiers. Today, it houses several museums, including the Army Museum, which has a vast collection of weapons, armor, and military artifacts from throughout French history. Napoleon’s tomb is here, a grand sarcophagus made of red granite, located under the dome of the Invalides’ church. The dome itself is one of the tallest in Paris, and its gold leaf covering shines brightly in the sun.​

Pompidou Centre: This modern building has the largest modern art museum in Europe. Designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, it’s known for its exterior escalators and exknown for its exterior escalators and exposed pipes, which give it a unique industrial look. The collection includes works by Picasso, Matisse, Warhol, and many other modern masters, spanning from the early 20th century to the present day. Don’t miss the Stravinsky Fountain nearby, a colorful fountain featuring sculptures inspired by the music of Igor Stravinsky, created by Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle.​

Musée d’Orsay: This museum is in an old train station, the Gare d’Orsay, which was built for the 1900 World’s Fair. The building itself is a work of art, with its grand clock overlooking the Seine. It has a large collection of impressionist art, including works by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh. The impressionist movement, which originated in France, is known for its use of light and color to capture fleeting moments, and the Musée d’Orsay has one of the best collections of these works in the world. You can see Monet’s Water Lilies, Renoir’s Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette, and Van Gogh’s Starry Night Over the Rhône, among many others.​

Stroll Down the Champs-Élysées​

The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is a 1.2-mile-long street in the center of Paris. It’s one of the most famous streets in the world, known for its elegance and vitality. The street has a rich history, dating back to the 17th century when it was a tree-lined path used by French royalty. Over the years, it has evolved into a bustling thoroughfare with luxury shops, theaters, and cafes.​

You’ll find flagship stores of famous brands like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Chanel, as well as more affordable shops and chain restaurants. The cafes along the Champs-Élysées are a great place to sit and people-watch, sipping a coffee or a glass of wine while taking in the atmosphere. The street is also home to several theaters, including the Lido, which offers a famous cabaret show similar to the Moulin Rouge.​

The Bastille Day military parade happens here every year on July 14th, a grand event that celebrates French national pride. The Tour de France also ends here, with the final stage of the famous cycling race finishing on the Champs-Élysées, much to the delight of thousands of spectators.​

At the end of the street is the Arc de Triomphe. Napoleon ordered this monument built in 1806 to honor his army’s victories. It took 30 years to complete, and its design is inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus. The names of French generals and battles are inscribed on its walls. Under the arch is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, added in 1921 to honor the soldiers who died in World War I and whose remains were never identified. The eternal flame here is rekindled every day at 6:30 pm, a moving tribute to the fallen.​

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Paris is full of beautiful parks and gardens, which are not just green spaces but also important cultural and historical sites. They are great places to walk, read, or enjoy the city.​

Tuileries Garden: This garden is next to the Louvre museum. It was created in the 16th century by Catherine de’ Medici, and it was a popular place for Parisians to meet in the past. The garden is designed in a formal French style, with symmetrical flower beds, fountains, and statues. It’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, with manicured lawns where you can lie down and soak up the sun. There are also several cafes in the garden, as well as a children’s playground. In the summer, the garden hosts outdoor exhibitions and concerts.​

Luxembourg Gardens: These gardens were created in 1612 for the Luxembourg Palace, which was built for Marie de’ Medici, the widow of Henry IV. The French Senate meets in the palace today. The gardens are larger than the Tuileries, with a more varied landscape that includes lawns, flower gardens, a pond, and even a small model sailboat area where children can sail their boats. There are also many statues throughout the gardens, including a replica of the Statue of Liberty. The Medici Fountain, a beautiful Renaissance-style fountain, is a popular spot for photos. On a sunny day, you’ll see Parisians and tourists alike relaxing on the green metal chairs that are scattered throughout the garden.​

Bois de Vincennes: This is the largest park in Paris, covering over 2,000 acres. It was once a royal hunting ground but was opened to the public in the 19th century. It has lakes, gardens, a zoo, and a castle. The lake is a popular spot for boating, and there are several islands in the lake that can be reached by bridge. The floral park within Bois de Vincennes has a stunning collection of flowers and plants, with different themed gardens. The zoo, which is over 150 years old, is home to a variety of animals from around the world. The Château de Vincennes, a medieval castle located within the park, is a fascinating historical site, with a tall keep and a beautiful chapel.​

Père Lachaise Cemetery opened in 1804, during the reign of Napoleon. It is the largest cemetery in Paris and one of the most visited in the world. Unlike many other cemeteries, Père Lachaise was designed to be a place of beauty and tranquility, with tree-lined avenues, gardens, and elaborate mausoleums.​

Many famous people are buried here, including Jim Morrison, the lead singer of The Doors, whose grave has become a pilgrimage site for fans, with people leaving notes, flowers, and even guitar picks. Édith Piaf, the legendary French singer known as the “Little Sparrow,” is also buried here, as is Frédéric Chopin, the great Polish composer who lived much of his life in Paris. Other notable figures include Oscar Wilde, Marcel Proust, and Gertrude Stein.​

Walk through the cemetery and see the old graves and tombs, which range from simple headstones to elaborate monuments that are works of art in themselves. The cemetery is like an outdoor museum, with each grave telling a story of the person buried there. It’s a peaceful and reflective place, where you can learn about the history of Paris and the people who shaped it.​

Explore the Modern La Défense District​

La Défense is a large business district with tall buildings, restaurants, and movie theaters. It’s located to the west of Paris, and it’s a stark contrast to the historic center of the city, with its modern skyscrapers and contemporary architecture. The district was developed in the 1950s to address the need for more office space in Paris, and it has grown into one of Europe’s major business hubs.​

La Grande Arche is an impressive building here. It looks like the Arc de Triomphe but is much larger, standing 361 feet tall. Designed by Johan Otto von Spreckelsen, it was completed in 1989 to mark the 200th anniversary of the French Revolution. The arch is hollow, with an observation deck at the top that offers panoramic views of Paris. You can go to the top of La Grande Arche and see the Arc de Triomphe in the city center, as well as the Eiffel Tower and other landmarks, creating a visual link between the modern and historic parts of Paris.​

The district also has a large shopping center, Les Quatre Temps, which has over 200 stores and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both workers and tourists. There’s also a park, the Parvis de la Défense, which hosts events and concerts throughout the year.​

The Palace of Versailles was home to the kings of France from 1682 until the French Revolution in 1789. It’s about 12 miles from Paris and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The palace was built by Louis XIV, who wanted to create a grand residence that would showcase the power and wealth of France. It’s one of the most opulent palaces in the world, with over 700 rooms, each decorated with elaborate furniture, paintings, and tapestries.​

When you visit, you’ll get a look at how the French royals lived. See the Hall of Mirrors, one of the most famous rooms in the palace, which has 17 mirrored arches that reflect the 17 windows overlooking the gardens. The hall was used for important ceremonies and events, such as the signing of the Treaty of Versailles in 1919, which ended World War I. The royal rooms, including the King’s Bedroom and the Queen’s Bedroom, are also open to the public, offering a glimpse into the private lives of the French monarchy.​

The gardens of Versailles are just as impressive as the palace, with their formal design, fountains, and sculptures. The gardens cover over 2,000 acres, and there are several smaller palaces and pavilions within them, such as the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, which were used by the royal family as retreats. In the summer, the fountains are turned on and there are musical performances, creating a magical atmosphere.

Ready to Explore Paris?

Paris has many amazing places to see. From historic churches to modern business districts, there’s something for everyone. Use this guide to plan your trip and experience the best of Paris.

Now it’s your turn! What are your favorite spots in Paris?

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