Top 10 Things To See in Paris
It’s no doubt that millions of visitors flock to Paris every year to visit the numerous picturesque attractions that the city of love has to offer. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new to discover. We’ve been to Paris 6 times now, and there’s still so much we have yet to uncover.
The attractions that we’re about to share with you are popular tourist destinations that need no introduction, and are what we consider as a “rite of passage” when you visit Paris. Some of them are our personal favourites, and we make it a point to visit every time we’re in the capital of France.
I mean, did you even visit Paris if you did not see these spots?
1. Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. As the most iconic landmark in Paris, this must-see Paris attraction offers breathtaking views of the city. Be sure to also visit at night to see it beautifully illuminated.
2. Louvre Museum
Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa, the Louvre Museum is a famous museum in Paris that attracts art lovers from around the world.
It is said that if you were to just spend 30 seconds looking at each piece of art in the museum, it would take you 100 days to see them all. But of course, we don’t have a 100 days, so plan your visit early in the day to avoid the crowds.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
This historic site in Paris is renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history. Despite the recent fire, Notre-Dame remains one of the top attractions in Paris.
The cathedral is slated to reopen to the public in December 2024, however the surroundings will still be under reparations until 2028.
4. Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe, one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, stands proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Commissioned by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz in 1805, this monumental arch honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
Visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of Paris, offering stunning vistas of the city’s grand boulevards radiating outwards and it’s one of our favourite spots to watch the sunset in Paris. The arch’s intricate sculptures and engraved names of generals and battles make it a profound symbol of French national pride and history.
5. Champs-Élysées
Often dubbed “the world’s most beautiful avenue,” the Champs-Ėlysėes stretches for nearly two kilometers in the heart of Paris, linking the Place de la Concorde with the Arc de Triomphe. This famous boulevard is renowned for its theaters, cafés, luxury shops, and the annual Bastille Day military parade.
Whether you’re strolling down its wide sidewalks, shopping at high-end boutiques, or enjoying a meal at a charming sidewalk café, the Champs-Élysées offers a quintessential Parisian experience that blends historic grandeur with modern elegance.
6. Sainte-Chapelle
Renowned for its magnificent stained-glass windows that depict over 1,100 scenes from the Bible, Sainte-Chapelle was built in the 13th century by King Louis IX to house precious Christian relics, including the Crown of Thorns.
The chapel is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and artistry and the interior of the upper chapel is bathed in a kaleidoscope of colors from the impressive stained-glass windows. This is perhaps also one of the most gorgeous displays of stained-glass windows we’ve come across in France, apart from the Metz Cathedral.
7. Musée d’Orsay
Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir are among the highlights of this exceptional museum.
8. Explore Montmartre & the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Montmartre is a unique area known for its artistic history and bohemian vibe. Wander through the charming streets and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. This is one of the unique things to do in Paris that you won’t find anywhere else.
9. Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens, located in the heart of Paris, offer a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. Stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, enjoy the statues and fountains, or relax by the large pond where children sail miniature boats.
This is one of our favourite free things to do in Paris, so grab a sandwich and park yourself on a bench in the gardens to enjoy a perfect afternoon of people-watching.
10. Cruise on the Seine River
For a romantic activity in Paris, take a cruise on the Seine River to see the iconic monuments of Paris from a different perspective.
We’d recommend making the most of your time by opting for a lunch or dinner cruise, so that you get to enjoy a delicious meal and the beautiful sights at the same time. This is the perfect way to enjoy the city’s beautiful landmarks from the water, especially during sunset.
Best Time to Visit Paris Attractions
To make the most of your trip, consider the best time to visit Paris. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making it the perfect time to see Paris attractions. As with all popular tourist attractions, we’d recommend you come early to avoid having to squeeze with the crowds.