What to do in Paris?
Paris, the City of Light, is a dream destination for many travelers. From its iconic landmarks to its charming neighborhoods, the French Capital offers endless attractions and activities. Whether it’s your first time or not, there’s always something new to discover in Paris. So you may wonder, what to do in Paris?
This guide will help you find the best attractions you can do in Paris, including the museums, gardens, squares, various areas, and bridges, ensuring you make the most of your visit. In the first part, we will talk about the must-see attractions before giving you some advice in our practical guide for Paris.
Contents
- The must-sees in Paris
- Other things to do in Paris
- Discovering the Pantheon
- Visiting the Orsay Museum
- Seeing the Arc de Triomphe
- Visiting the Invalides
- Visiting Notre Dame Cathedral and Ile de la Cité
- Doing a Big Bus tour around Paris
- Visiting the Opéra Garnier
- Seeing a show at the Moulin Rouge
- Doing a nightly dinner cruse in Paris
- Enjoying panoramic views from the Montparnasse Tower
- Visiting the Centre Pompidou
- Walking in the Parisian Catacombs
- Walking around the Luxembourg Gardens
- Shopping in Paris
- Practical guide
The must-sees in Paris
The first part of this article will introduce you to the must-see attractions in Paris. They are the ones that you need to do and visit during your trip.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower, a symbol of France
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. As the symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable structures in the world, the Eiffel Tower has to be a must-see on your Paris visit list. Completed in 1889 for the World's Fair, it was initially met with mixed reactions from Parisians. However, it quickly became a beloved icon. Standing at 324 meters tall, the Eiffel Tower offers stunning views over the city.
You can visit the monument every day of the year. From mid-June to early September, it is open from 9:00 a.m. to 12:45 a.m., with the last admission at midnight. For the rest of the year, it is open from 9:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m., with the last admission at 11:00 p.m.
For your visit, you will need to have a ticket. The prices vary depending on how high you want to go. Discounts are available for children, youths, and disabled visitors. To make the most of your visit, consider booking tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season.
In order to visit the most wanted attraction in Paris, you need to go to the 7th arrondissement. You can reach it by taking the metro to either Bir-Hakeim (Line 6) or Trocadéro (Line 9). Several bus lines also stop near the tower.
The Eiffel Tower's three levels include restaurants and shops. On the first floor, you'll find the glass floor, which offers a thrilling view straight down. The second floor provides panoramic views and is home to the famous restaurant Le Jules Verne. You can visit the summit, accessible by elevator, which offers a breathtaking view that extends for miles on a clear day.
The nearby Trocadéro Gardens offer some of the best views and photo opportunities of the Eiffel Tower, especially at sunset when the tower lights up.
Visiting the Louvre
Home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other masterpieces, the Louvre Museum is a cultural treasure trove. Originally a fortress built in the late 12th century, it was transformed into a royal palace before becoming a public museum in 1793. The museum's vast collection spans centuries and civilizations, making it one of the most comprehensive art museums in the world.
You can visit the Louvre every day except Tuesdays and the following holidays: January 1, May 1, and December 25. Opening hours are from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with extended hours until 9:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Friday nights.
Entry is free for visitors under 18, and for EU residents under 26. The first Saturday of each month offers free admission from 6:00 p.m. to 9:45 p.m.
The Louvre is located in the 1st arrondissement. The nearest metro stations are Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7). Several buses and the Paris Open Tour stop nearby as well.
The Louvre's extensive collection includes pieces from nearly every era and region. Highlights include the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Code of Hammurabi. Be sure to explore the less-crowded wings, which house magnificent Islamic art, Egyptian antiquities, and lesser-known yet equally captivating works. The museum itself, with its glass pyramid entrance is an architectural marvel.
Discovering the Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. Originally a hunting lodge, it was transformed by Louis XIV into a grand palace and the seat of political power.
The palace is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. The gardens are open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Entry to the gardens is free, except on days with Musical Fountains Shows or Musical Gardens.
Versailles is located about 20 kilometers southwest of Paris. You can take the RER C train from central Paris to Versailles Château-Rive Gauche, which takes about 40 minutes. Buses and guided tours are also available.
Highlights of Versailles include the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Apartments, and the extensive gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. The estate also includes the Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon, and the Queen's Hamlet, a rustic retreat for Marie Antoinette. To avoid long lines, consider purchasing tickets in advance and arriving early.
Cruse on the Seine
Discover Paris in a different way by choosing to take a cruise on the Seine. This activity will allow you to flow along the river and take pictures of many must-see attractions in Paris.
If your trip to Paris is short, a cruise on the Seine is a good compromise to visit, or at least to see, plenty of monuments, bridges, and museums that are located near the Seine. Indeed, during your cruise, you will be able to see the Invalides, the Orsay Museum, the Île de la Cité with Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris City Hall, the Louvre Museum, Concorde Square, and the Grand Palais.
During your cruise, you will pass underneath several famous bridges, like Pont Neuf and Pont Alexandre III. Of course, you will also see the famous Eiffel Tower!
Several types of cruises exist. You can choose among a basic sightseeing cruise, a lunch cruise, a dinner cruise, and a private cruise. The prices will vary according to your choice. For a basic sightseeing cruise, you can expect a price between €15 and €20 for adults and €7 to €10 for children. It will last around an hour or an hour and a half.
Most Seine cruises start from central locations in Paris, such as:
- Port de la Bourdonnais, located near the Eiffel Tower
- Port de la Conférence, near the Pont de l'Alma
- Port de Solférino, near the Orsay Museum
You can take this cruise from early in the morning to late at night. They depart every 30 to 60 minutes. You can book a time directly online or at the information shops near the cruises. We highly recommend that you book your ticket as soon as possible to be sure to take the cruise at the time you desire.
Walking around Montmartre
Montmartre, perched on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, is famous for its bohemian past and artistic heritage. The area is characterized by its narrow, winding streets, charming cafes, and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which offers breathtaking views over Paris. Montmartre was once home to artists such as Picasso, and Van Gogh. Today, visitors can explore the Place du Tertre, where artists sell their works, and visit the Musée de Montmartre to learn more about the area's history.
It offers a deep dive into the vibrant artistic history of this iconic neighborhood. The museum is housed in the Hôtel Demarne and the Maison du Bel Air, two historic buildings that were once home to renowned artists and writers.
The museum's permanent collections include a rich array of artworks, photographs, and memorabilia that chronicle the artistic and bohemian history of Montmartre from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that focus on specific themes, artists, or periods. It is open Monday trough Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Other things to do in Paris
Paris is a big city where you can do and visit plenty of things. In this part, we will talk about culture, museums, history, and gardens!
Discovering the Pantheon
The Pantheon is another attraction that is interesting to do. It was commissioned by King Louis XV in 1755.
Originally intended as a church, it was completed in 1790 and later converted into a mausoleum during the French Revolution. It now houses the remains of notable French figures such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie.
During your visit, you will have the chance to explore the crypt where many famous personalities are buried, and admire the stunning frescoes and artwork inside. You can also climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris.
Several types of tickets and tours are available. You can choose from a basic entry ticket, a guided tour, or a combined ticket that includes access to other nearby attractions.
The prices will vary according to your choice. For a basic entry ticket, you can expect a price around €10 for adults, with discounts available for students and seniors.
The Pantheon is open every day from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. During peak tourist seasons, we highly recommend booking your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
You can easily reach the Pantheon by public transport, with several metro and bus lines stopping nearby.
Visiting the Orsay Museum
The Musée d'Orsay is housed in a former railway station and features an extensive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
The building itself is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture, with a grand glass roof that floods the space with natural light.
You can visit the museum between Tuesday and Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with extended hours until 9:45 p.m. on Thursdays.
Entry is free for visitors under 18 and for EU residents under 26. The first Sunday of each month offers free admission.
The Musée d'Orsay is located in the 7th arrondissement. The nearest metro stations are Solférino (Line 12) and Assemblée Nationale (Line 12). The RER C line stops at Musée d'Orsay. Buses 24, 63, 68, 69, 73, 83, 84, 87, and 94 also serve the area.
The museum's highlights include works like "Starry Night" by Van Gogh, "Bal du Moulin de la Galette" by Renoir, and "Olympia" by Manet.
Temporary exhibitions often feature thematic collections or focus on individual artists, providing fresh perspectives on familiar works.
Seeing the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the end of the Champs-Élysées, honoring those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
Commissioned by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz in 1805, the arch is adorned with intricate sculptures and engravings.
If you want to visit the Arc de Triomphe, it is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. It is interesting to know that entry is free for visitors under 18 and for EU residents under 26.
To visit the Arc de Triomphe, you will need to go to the 8th arrondissement of Paris. The closest metro stations are Charles de Gaulle-Étoile (Lines 1, 2, and 6). Buses also stop nearby.
During your visit, you will find a small museum detailing the arch's history and a panoramic terrace offering spectacular views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées.
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I is located beneath the arch, with an eternal flame that is rekindled every evening at 6:30 p.m..
Visiting the Invalides
Les Invalides, located in the 7th arrondissement, is a complex of buildings containing museums and monuments related to the military history of France.
It is also the site of Napoleon Bonaparte's tomb. The striking gold-domed church, known as the Dôme des Invalides, houses his sarcophagus.
The Musée de l'Armée, also located within the complex, offers extensive exhibits on French military history, including armor, weapons, and uniforms.
You can visit it daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with extended hours in summer, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can note that the entry is free for EU citizens under 26, children under 18 and disabled visitors accompanied by a person.
To reach the Invalides, you will have several options. You can take the metro on line 8 to La Tour-Maubourg or Invalides station, or on line 13 to Varenne or Invalides station.
RER line C to Invalides station is also another option. Several bus lines serve this area as well.
Visiting Notre Dame Cathedral and Ile de la Cité
Although it suffered a devastating fire in 2019, Notre-Dame Cathedral remains a testament to Gothic architecture. The construction of the cathedral began in 1163, and it took over 180 years to complete it.
The cathedral's grounds are accessible 24/7. The interior is currently closed for restoration following the fire, but it is expected to reopen in 2024.
When open, you can access the towers. It usually costs around €10 for adults, with discounts for children and youth.
To visit Notre Dame Cathedral, you need to go on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement. The nearest metro station is Cité (Line 4). Buses serve the area.
The cathedral's history is rich with notable events, including the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of France in 1804 and the beatification of Joan of Arc in 1909.
During your visit to this emblem of Paris, you will see that the structure itself is a masterpiece of medieval engineering, featuring flying buttresses, gargoyles, and stunning stained glass windows.
Doing a Big Bus tour around Paris
Explore Paris with a Big Bus Tour that will allow you to discover the city's major attractions. Hop on and off at iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
The open-top buses provide audio commentary in multiple languages, enriching your sightseeing experience.
Big Bus Tours offer flexible tickets, allowing you to choose from different routes and durations.
The buses run frequently, with departures every 10-20 minutes from central locations like the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées.
Most tours operate from early morning until late evening, providing a certain amount of time to explore. Tickets can be purchased online or at designated stops, with advance booking recommended during peak tourist seasons.
With panoramic views and informative commentaries, a Big Bus Tour is an excellent way to experience the beauty and history of Paris at your own pace.
Visiting the Opéra Garnier
The Palais Garnier, or Opéra Garnier, is an architectural masterpiece and one of the most famous opera houses in the world.
Located in the 9th arrondissement, it was built in the late 19th century and is renowned for its opulent interiors, including the grand staircase, the chandelier in the auditorium, and Marc Chagall's painted ceiling.
The opera house offers guided tours that provide insights into its history, architecture, and the performances that have graced its stage. The opera house is open for tours daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The nearest metro stations are Opéra and Chaussée d'Antin-La Fayette.
If you are not interested in a visit, you can still choose to book a show, such as an opera or a ballet. It would be a way of discovering the place while enjoying your time there!
Seeing a show at the Moulin Rouge
Seeing a show at the Moulin Rouge in Paris is a true Parisian experience, offering a dazzling display of music, dance, and elaborate costumes.
The iconic cabaret, established in 1889, is renowned for its spectacular performances, including the famous French Cancan.
The Moulin Rouge offers various ticket options, with prices starting at around €87 for a show-only ticket.
For a more indulgent experience, you can choose a dinner and show package, which typically costs between €190 and €230 per person, including a gourmet meal and champagne.
Shows run nightly, with performances usually at 9 p.m. and an additional show at 11 p.m. on weekends.
It's highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance, as shows often sell out, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Located in the vibrant Montmartre district, the Moulin Rouge is easily accessible by public transport, with the nearest metro station being Blanche.
Doing a nightly dinner cruse in Paris
A dinner cruise in Paris at night offers an enchanting way to experience the city's illuminated landmarks while enjoying a gourmet meal.
As you glide along the Seine, you'll see iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre, all beautifully lit against the night sky.
Dinner cruises typically offer various packages, with prices ranging from €75 to €150 per person, depending on the menu and level of service.
Most packages include a multi-course meal, drinks, and live entertainment. Some cruises offer special menus for holidays and celebrations, providing a truly memorable experience.
Most dinner cruises start between 7 PM and 8:30 PM and last around 2 to 2.5 hours. Departure points are usually central locations such as Port de la Bourdonnais near the Eiffel Tower or Port de Solférino near the Musée d'Orsay.
Dress code is typically elegant and casual, and the sophisticated ambiance of the boat adds to the romantic and magical atmosphere of a night on the Seine.
Enjoying panoramic views from the Montparnasse Tower
The Montparnasse Tower, also known as Tour Montparnasse, is a 210-meter-tall office skyscraper located in the Montparnasse area of Paris. Completed in 1973, it was the tallest skyscraper in France until 2011.
It is located in the 15th arrondissement. The observation deck is open from April 1st to September 30th from 9:30a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
From October 1st to March 1st, it closes at 10:20 p.m. except for Friday and Saturday, where it is closed at 11 p.m..
Different prices are offered depending on your situation. The area is well served by the metro and buses.
The tower offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris. The skyscraper's observation deck on the 56th floor provides a stunning 360-degree view of the city, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Sacré-Cœur.
It is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and offices. It is a popular tourist attraction in Paris that you need to do, especially at night to see the Eiffel Tower lightening up.
Visiting the Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is a modern art museum and cultural center known for its high-tech architecture. Its extensive collection includes works by Kandinsky, Duchamp, and Picasso.
The Centre Pompidou is open every day except Tuesdays and May 1 from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. The rooftop restaurant offers stunning views of Paris and is open until 2:00 p.m.
Entry is free for visitors under 18 and for EU residents under 26. The first Sunday of each month offers free admission.
The Centre Pompidou is located in the 4th arrondissement. The nearest metro stations are Rambuteau (Line 11) and Hôtel de Ville (Lines 1 and 11). Buses serve the area.
In addition to its permanent collection, the Centre Pompidou hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions, performance art, and film screenings.
The public library and the Institute for Research and Coordination in Acoustics and Music (IRCAM) are also part of the complex.
The Stravinsky Fountain, located adjacent to the museum, features whimsical sculptures by Niki de Saint-Phalle and Jean Tinguely.
Walking in the Parisian Catacombs
Visiting the Catacombs in Paris offers a fascinating experience into the city's underground history. This vast network of tunnels, housing the remains of over six million people, is a unique and intriguing attraction to do in Paris.
Tickets for the Catacombs generally cost around €15 for adults, with reduced rates available for youth and children.
The Catacombs are open daily, except for Mondays and certain holidays, from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. It's advisable to book tickets online in advance, as daily visitor numbers are limited to prevent overcrowding.
Due to the nature of the site, the visit involves descending 131 steps and ascending 112 steps, and the tunnels can be narrow and dimly lit.
It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes and bring a light jacket, as the temperature underground is a constant 14°C (57°F).
Walking around the Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens, created in the early 17th century, are a popular spot for both Parisians and tourists.
The gardens feature beautiful flowerbeds, fountains, statues, and a large pond where children can sail miniature boats.
The garden is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. in the summer and from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the winter.
You can visit the garden for free. Although, there are charges for some activities, such as renting a sailboat or playing tennis.
The gardens are part of the Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate. Highlights include the Medici Fountain, the statues of French queens and other notable women, and the orchard with old apple varieties.
The gardens also host concerts on the bandstand and puppet shows in the theater.
Shopping in Paris
The Champs-Élysées, known as "the world's most beautiful avenue," stretches from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde. Lined with shops, cafes, and theaters, it's a premier destination for both luxury and high-street shopping.
Prices vary widely, with luxury brands and high-street shops offering a range of options. Even though the majority of shops are from luxury brands, you can still find a few shops that are less expensive.
Galeries Lafayette, located on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement, is one of the most famous department stores in the world.
Known for its stunning glass dome and Art Nouveau architecture, it offers a vast selection of high-end fashion, beauty products, and gourmet food.
Boulevard Haussmann itself is a major shopping destination, lined with elegant shops, cafes, and the grand department store Printemps.
Practical guide
In this final part of the article, you will find all the practical information you need to know before your trip to France. You will learn how to get to the city, how to get around it, and where you can sleep and eat.
How do I go to Paris?
Paris is well-connected by air, with two major airports: Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and Orly Airport (ORY). Both airports offer numerous international and domestic flights.
The city is also accessible by train, with major stations like Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, and Gare Montparnasse connecting Paris to other French cities and European destinations.
How to get around the city?
Paris has an efficient public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams.
The metro is the quickest way to get around, with extensive coverage of the city. You can also consider purchasing a Paris city pass for unlimited travel on public transport.
Walking and cycling are also great ways to explore the city, with many bike rental options available.
You can also opt for a taxi as they drive around the city all day long.
Where can I sleep in Paris?
Paris offers a wide range of accommodations options to suit all budgets. Choose from luxury hotels like The Shangri La , boutique hotels, or budget-friendly options like renting an apartment or only a room at a Parisian resident.
During our trip, we slept at Hotel Madeleine Haussman which is a good hotel with nice and cosy rooms in the 8th arrondissement. In this hotel, the Champs-Elysées will be only at a 15-minute walk and other impressive attractions like Le Louvre and Place de la Concorde.
Another option is to stay at Hotel Choiseul Opera , which is another good hotel that is close to the Galeries Lafayette but also to the Louvre museum. A metro station is also close by so you can move easily move across the city.
Where can I eat in the city?
During your trip in Paris, you will have a lot of options regarding food. Luxurious restaurants, small cafés, bakeries, you will have many opportunities to taste the local French flavors.
We especially recommend you to book a table at Fouquet’s or on the rooftop of Printemps, to eat macarons at Laduree and to buy croissant and petits pains au chocolat at a bakery.
Visiting Paris is a magical experience filled with history, culture, and unforgettable moments. From iconic landmarks and world-class museums to culinary specialities or charming neighborhoods like Montmartre, there is a lot of things to do in this city.
The public transportations are well served in Paris, so you will be able to get easily around the city. The city of Light is extremely touristic, so try to plan your visit in advance to make the most of your trip.