When it comes to best things to do in Paris, the options are endless. The City of Love beckons with a plethora of tourist attractions Paris that cater to various interests. From iconic museums to captivating cruises, the city offers a vast canvas of experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we will unveil the top 15 places to visit in Paris, ensuring your visit to the French capital is a journey filled with extraordinary moments and unforgettable experiences.
1. Louvre Museum: Where Art and History Converge
The Louvre Museum is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Paris. This colossal institution houses over 35,000 works of art within its palatial confines, inviting visitors on an enthralling journey through time and culture.
Don’t miss the chance to explore the multifaceted facets of the Louvre, featuring mesmerizing masterpieces spanning different eras and civilizations. From the mystical Egyptian mummy tombs to the timeless allure of the ancient Grecian sculptures like the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and, of course, the iconic Mona Lisa by the genius Leonardo da Vinci, every corner of this majestic museum exudes wonder.
Tips for Your Louvre Visit
- Extended Evening Hours: Plan your visit on a Friday when the museum remains open until 9.45 pm, offering a unique opportunity to admire art bathed in the warm glow of evening light.
- Beat the Crowds: If you prefer a more intimate experience, visit in the morning or on Wednesday and Friday evenings when the Louvre tends to be less crowded.
- Room Closures Schedule: To ensure you don’t miss out on your favorite artworks, check the ‘Schedule of Room Closures’ on the museum’s website.
2. Disneyland Paris: A Magical Playground
If you’re traveling with family, particularly with children, Disneyland Paris promises a world of enchantment and joy. Formerly known as Euro Disney, this iconic theme park stands as one of the top tourist attractions in Paris and holds the distinction of being Europe’s most-visited theme park. Located a short distance from the city, the expansive Disney complex includes two thrilling theme parks, Disney Nature Resorts, multiple resort hotels, a spectrum of shopping options, delightful dining experiences, and a golf course amidst a backdrop of recreation venues.
One-day admission grants you unlimited access to the wonders of either Disneyland Park or Walt Disney Studios Park, making it one of the best things to do at Paris with kids. While picnic hampers or coolers aren’t permitted, you can bring your snacks, sandwiches, and water bottles to keep you refreshed during your magical journey. Be sure to explore over 50 themed restaurants of varying quality, and keep an eye out for regional European food stalls at the Rendez-Vous Gourmand, a delightful summer event that extends from July to October.
3. Seine Cruise: The River of Romance
For a breathtaking perspective of Paris, embark on a captivating Seine River cruise. These leisurely journeys allow you to witness the city’s iconic landmarks as they gracefully pass by, making it one of the top things to do in Paris for couples.
As you glide along the Seine, you’ll be treated to stunning views of iconic landmarks such as the resplendent Eiffel Tower and the magnificent Musée d’Orsay. Keep an eye out for a smaller-scale Statue of Liberty on the Île aux Cygnes. As your boat turns upstream, you’ll be greeted by the larger islands, Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis, each offering a mesmerizing view of the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral and more.
Touring Paris from the Water
- Cruise the Canals: One of the most enchanting ways to explore Paris is by meandering along its scenic canals, taking you through the heart of the city. The City of Light takes on a new glow as the sun sets, casting its magical spell. You can choose from themed cruises, hour-long trips along the Canal Saint-Martin or Seine, or even book a private pontoon boat to curate your playlist and savor your selection of wine and snacks.
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4. Versailles Palace: A Testament to Grandeur
The Palace of Versailles, a top tourist attraction in France Paris, is located just a short train ride away from central Paris. This UNESCO World Heritage site invites you to explore the splendor of France’s royal history.
As you step into the palace, the Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces) is sure to leave you spellbound. This iconic hall is lined with 357 mirrors and 17 windows, offering a breathtaking view of the palace’s magnificent gardens. It was in this very hall that the Treaty of Versailles was signed in 1919, marking the end of World War I. Don’t forget to explore the meticulously landscaped gardens, which are often less crowded than the palace’s interior.
Key Highlights of Versailles
- The Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon: Explore these smaller palaces on the estate for a glimpse into the private lives of French royalty. The Petit Trianon, famously inhabited by Marie Antoinette, tells tales of opulence and extravagance.
- Purchase Your Tickets in Advance: The Palace of Versailles can become incredibly crowded, especially during peak tourist season. To bypass the long lines, it’s advisable to buy your tickets online.
5. Cabaret Show: A Night of French Extravaganza
Paris boasts a vibrant cabaret culture, with iconic venues such as Le Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse. But beyond the cancan and the familiar, something equally French and risqué awaits. Step into the world of Madame Arthur, a drag cabaret and club in the lively district of Pigalle, where innovation meets entertainment in an atmosphere that’s nothing short of electric.
Watching a performance in Paris is truly a treat, with French and international opera, ballet, theater companies, and cabaret dancers gracing the stage of fabled venues. Additionally, the city’s fascinating fringe art scene is alive with young, passionate, and highly creative musicians, thespians, and artists who ensure that Paris remains a dynamic and ever-evolving cultural hub.
6. Sacré-Coeur & Montmartre: An Artistic Escapade
Montmartre, celebrated for its artistic history and breathtaking views of Paris, beckons you to wander through its winding streets and embrace its bohemian spirit. At the heart of this charming district lies the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, an iconic Parisian landmark.
To reach the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, embark on a leisurely walk up the hill, taking in the captivating panoramic views of the city from its steps. To avoid the crowds, plan your visit early in the morning or during the peaceful evening hours. Inside the basilica, discover a world of stunning mosaics and intricate stained glass windows that exude timeless beauty.
7. Sample Cheese at Fromagerie Goncourt: A Culinary Odyssey
Charles de Gaulle once famously pondered how one could govern a country with 246 types of cheese, but for visitors, the question may be more about how to navigate a shop that offers such an overwhelming variety. Fortunately, at a fromagerie (cheese shop) in Paris, you can not only sample the tantalizing selection but also benefit from generous guidance and pairing advice.
Like a boutique for cheese aficionados, this contemporary fromagerie is a must-discover. Clément Brossault, a former banker turned fromager, curates a seasonal cheese selection featuring over 70 types. Cheeses marked with a bicycle symbol are varieties he discovered during a two-month French cheese tour as part of his training. So, embark on a culinary adventure and savor the rich and diverse flavors of French cheese.
8. Visit Flea Market: Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: Treasure Hunt
Dedicate an entire day to strolling through the stands and stalls of vintage designer jewelry, clothing, furniture, records, and books at the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, regarded as Europe’s largest flea market. With over 2,000 boutiques scattered across more than a dozen individual markets, this treasure trove calls for a guided exploration.
Established in 1870, the market showcases more than 2,000 stalls grouped into 15 markets, each offering a unique array of treasures, from 17th-century furniture to 21st-century clothing. Every market has different opening hours, so it’s essential to check the website for details. While exploring, don’t forget to savor the ambiance at Chez Louisette, a legendary 1930s guinguette (cafe-bar with outdoor dancing) where you can enjoy the merry accompaniment of French chansons and accordion music.
9. Explore Musée Picasso Paris: An Art Lover’s Heaven
Nestled in the Marais, the Musée Picasso Paris is an ideal place to take a break from shopping or escape the summer heat. Housed in the 17th-century Hôtel Salé, this old mansion is as impressive as its collection, boasting nearly 5,000 paintings, sculptures, and drawings by the prolific artist Pablo Picasso.
10. Have a Drink at Bar Hemingway: Timeless Elegance
Before my permanent move to Paris, I would visit Bar Hemingway every time I arrived in the city. Serving some of the best cocktails in Paris, this cigar lounge-style establishment, adorned with black-and-white photos and Hemingway memorabilia, remains a top choice for locals and visitors alike.
Arrive early or even before the bar opens, as reservations are not accepted. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of memorabilia, including hunting trophies, old typewriters, and framed handwritten letters by the great writer. The head bartender, Colin Peter Field, is renowned for crafting monumental cocktails, including three different Bloody Marys made with juice from freshly squeezed seasonal tomatoes. Legend has it that Hemingway himself, wielding a machine gun, helped liberate the bar during World War II.
11. Stroll Through the Organic Farmer’s Market on Boulevard Raspail: A Moveable Feast
Ernest Hemingway once remarked that Paris is a moveable feast, a sentiment that lives on in the organic farmer’s market on Boulevard Raspail. Every Sunday, this market springs to life, offering piles of fresh produce, mouthwatering roasting chickens, and beautifully displayed cheeses.
As you navigate from stall to stall, you’ll be tempted by the tantalizing displays and invited to not just look but also taste. Many vendors are more than happy to share their bounty, so it’s worth dusting off your best French skills to ask for a nibble or two before making your selection.
12. Explore Pantin: A Revitalized Suburb
Parisians are finally exploring suburbs that were long overlooked, and Pantin, an industrial neighborhood flanking the Canal de l’Ourcq to the northeast, is a prime example of this transformation. As you take a leisurely weekend walk along the water, you’ll discover gems like Dock B, a restaurant-meets-music venue, and excellent neighborhood cocktail spots like Pastoral.
One of Pantin’s star attractions is the sprawling Cité Fertile, an “eco-district” that brings together vegetable gardens, workshops, yoga spaces, an excellent restaurant, and even a brewery, Paname Brewing Company. This once run-down area is now a hub of creativity and revitalization, inviting you to explore its unique charm.
13. Visit Montmartre’s Vineyards and Taste Parisian Wine: A Hidden Gem
Montmartre’s maze of cobbled streets hides surprises at every turn. One of these hidden treasures is a small vineyard that typically remains closed to the public. Owned by the city of Paris, the Clos Montmartre springs to life every second weekend of October during the Grape Harvest Festival (Fête des Vendanges).
As you enter the festival near Place du Tertre, you can pick up a souvenir glass and savor the Clos’ own wine before embarking on a tasting journey that spans regions from Alsace to Burgundy. Fuel your exploration with delectable treats such as saucisson and snails from the numerous stalls.
Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour
- A guided tour of the vineyard, followed by a wine tasting, can be arranged through the Museum of Montmartre, which sits around the corner and is also worth a visit.
14. Relax with a Hammam at the Mosque: A Cultural Retreat
France boasts the largest Muslim population in Europe, with strong Moroccan and Tunisian communities. Paris is home to several elegant hammams, where you can pamper yourself and unwind. One of the most notable is La Grande Mosquée, a grand mosque built in 1926.
At La Grande Mosquée, you’ll find a dedicated hammam open to women, providing an authentic and serene experience. After enjoying a steam bath in its colorful alcoves, indulge in a gommage (scrub) and a massage to melt away the stresses of the day. Finally, head to the leafy courtyard to savor a cup of mint tea and freshly made baklava, making your visit a truly rejuvenating experience.
15. Visit the Famous Bookstore Shakespeare and Company: A Literary Oasis
Situated on Paris’ Left Bank, Shakespeare and Company is a small yet globally renowned bookstore. The shop was founded by American Sylvia Beach in 1919 at a different location and was frequented by literary giants such as Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, and Ezra Pound.
Today, Shakespeare and Company is a haven for book lovers. Its enchanting nooks and crannies overflow with new and secondhand English-language books. The original shop was run by Sylvia Beach, making it the meeting point for Hemingway’s “Lost Generation.” The bookshop is famed for nurturing aspiring writers and book-mad students, offering them the opportunity to stay overnight in exchange for helping with the store’s operations. Established in 1951, the present incarnation is beloved by beat poets and other influential authors.
Continuing the Literary Tradition
- The bookshop continues to host readings by emerging and illustrious authors regularly. You’ll also find a delightful cafe next door, adding to the store’s charming ambiance.
16. Buy the Fashion Piece at Galleries Lafayette: A Shopping Extravaganza
The Galeries Lafayette, an upscale French department store, is more than just a shopping destination; it’s an architectural wonder. Even if you’re not in the mood for shopping, a visit to this magnificent store is worthwhile.
Upon stepping inside, you’ll be greeted by an awe-inspiring stained glass ceiling and ornately decorated balconies. The store offers not only a wide array of high-end fashion but also the opportunity to learn how to bake macarons from a French pastry chef.
17. Tour the Opulent Opera Garnier: A Cultural Gem
Easily one of Europe’s finest venues for music and ballet, the Palais Garnier, also known as the Opera Garnier, is an absolute must-see for first-time visitors to Paris. This grand 19th-century opera house, designed by Charles Garnier, was completed in 1874 and boasts an opulent history that’s as rich as its interior.
The Opera Garnier Experience
- While watching a performance at the Opera Garnier is an undeniably incredible experience, your trip wouldn’t be complete without taking a tour. These expert-led tours, offered in English, provide insight into the building’s remarkable history and design. You’ll have the opportunity to explore areas that are typically off-limits to the public, including the artists’ dressing rooms and exclusive balconies. The elaborate artwork and sculpture that adorn the Opera Garnier provide a glimpse into 19th-century French society, making it a visual and auditory delight.
18. Visit The Paris Museum of Sewers: Underground Thing to do in Paris
Visiting the sewers of Paris means delving into the city’s hidden underbelly, exploring its concealed realms that are intimately connected to its architectural evolution. The sewers museum offers a unique opportunity to uncover the history of this intricate underground network.
Unveiling the Underground of Paris
- Beneath the feet of pedestrians in the upper world, a vast underground labyrinth unfolds, as described by Victor Hugo in Les Misérables. The sewers of Paris today extend over 2600 km of galleries and gutters, guiding some 300 million cubic meters of rainwater and wastewater each year through a unique network.
- The sewers also house additional networks, including portable drinking water, non-drinking water, and even fiber optics. Despite their age, the sewers continue to operate efficiently, a testament to the engineering genius of their design.
Discover the Heritage of the Sewers
- To appreciate the captivating history of Paris’s sewers, a museum has been established for this very purpose. This museum, dedicated to the subterranean world of Paris, reflects the enduring fascination of the surface world with the labyrinthine city below.
Explore and Discover Paris: A City of Endless Marvels In the heart of Europe, Paris stands as a beacon of culture, art, and history. This list of top 18 things to do in Paris provides a roadmap to the city’s most alluring destinations and experiences, ensuring that your visit to the City of Light is as unforgettable as it is enlightening. From iconic museums to captivating cruises, from hidden gems to grandeur personified, Paris is a city of endless marvels, ready to be explored.
Conclusion: Best Things to Do in Paris
As you prepare for your journey to Paris, remember that the city offers a vast canvas of experiences. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, a food lover, or a romantic at heart, Paris welcomes you with its open arms. Revel in the intoxicating charm of the Louvre Museum, the whimsy of Disneyland Paris, and the timeless elegance of Montmartre. From decadent palaces to hidden literary gems, the city has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, embark on this incredible journey, and let Paris work its magic on you. With its enchanting allure, the City of Love promises memories that will last a lifetime. Paris isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience to remember.
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