18 unmissable things to do in Paris
A hit-list of must-sees for your Paris itinerary
From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the enchanting River Seine, Paris, France is a city full of beauty and wonder. Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway or an action-packed family holiday, you won’t be short of things to do in the City of Light. To help you make the most of your trip, here are 18 of the best things to do in Paris.
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Visit the Eiffel Tower
For many, a visit to Paris would not be complete without seeing the iconic Eiffel Tower. Standing at 324 meters high, the Eiffel Tower is the tallest structure in the city and can be seen from almost anywhere. The view from the top of the tower is breathtaking, with panoramic views of Paris and beyond.
You can take an elevator or climb the stairs up to the second floor and then take another elevator to the top. Whether you’re looking for a romantic night or simply want to enjoy a view of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see.
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Take a Seine River cruise
A Seine River cruise is a great way to take in the sights of Paris from the comfort of a boat. Hop on at one of the many piers and take a tour down the river, passing by iconic monuments such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and many others.
There are also day cruises which offer a full day of sightseeing, with lunch provided on board. The Seine River cruise is a great way to get to know Paris, enjoy some beautiful scenery, and even get some great photos!
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Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Located on the Île de la Cité, the gothic cathedral has been a symbol of the city since the 12th century. Take a guided tour and be amazed by the intricate sculptures, stained-glass windows, and the gorgeous rose window.
Explore the crypt and gardens, or climb up to the towers for a panoramic view of Paris. Inside, marvel at the world’s largest organ and join a religious service or hear a choir performance. A visit to Notre Dame Cathedral is a must for any visitor to Paris.
Please not that due to ongoing repair work to the cathedral following fire damage, some area may be temporarily off-limits to visitors.
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See the Mona Lisa at the Louvre
The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world, and it is home to one of the most iconic works of art, the Mona Lisa. This masterpiece by Leonardo da Vinci has become a symbol of the Louvre and its vast collection of art and artifacts.
Visiting the museum to see the Mona Lisa is a must-do activity when visiting Paris. The best way to experience this painting is to take the time to appreciate all of the details and subtleties that make it so special.
The museum also houses other works by da Vinci as well as masterpieces by other renowned artists. If you’re looking to explore the history of art, this is one stop you don’t want to miss.
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View art at the Musee d'Orsay
The Musee d'Orsay is an incredible art museum located in Paris, France. Visitors to the museum can view some of the world's finest collections of impressionist, post-impressionist, and modern art.
The permanent collection includes works by renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Manet, Renoir, Cezanne, and Degas. Highlights include iconic paintings such as Monet's Water Lilies, Van Gogh's Starry Night, and Renoir's Dance at Bougival. The impressive building is a former railway station with many architectural features which make for an enjoyable visit.
It also houses sculptures, furniture, photographs and other pieces of art from 1848 to 1914. Whether you're a fan of art or not, a visit to Musee d'Orsay is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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People watch at Place de la Concorde
Located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, Place de la Concorde is an iconic public square and one of the city's most popular tourist destinations. It is the largest public square in Paris, and is surrounded by magnificent buildings, gardens and monuments. People watching is a favorite pastime at Place de la Concorde.
Tourists and locals alike can be seen gathering around the ornate fountains and statues in the middle of the square, admiring the views of the river Seine and the monuments. Take a stroll around the square to observe the different people from all walks of life, from students to office workers, to street musicians.
The lively atmosphere at Place de la Concorde is sure to make it an unforgettable experience!
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Shop on the Champs-Elysees
The Champs-Elysees is the most famous avenue in Paris, stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. It's one of the most sought after shopping destinations, with its high end boutiques, luxury retailers and Parisian specialties.
There's something for everyone - whether you're looking for fashion, jewelry, cosmetics, or souvenirs. Take a leisurely stroll down the tree-lined boulevard and don't forget to check out the eateries and cafes.
From fine dining to casual bistros, the Champs-Elysees has it all! Plus, the lively street performers are sure to add a bit of entertainment and charm to your shopping experience.
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Visit Moulin Rouge
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, a visit to the Moulin Rouge should be at the top of your Paris itinerary. Located in Montmartre, this iconic venue has hosted some of the world’s greatest cabaret shows for over 130 years.
The beautiful red windmill is a symbol of Paris, and it’s still a popular place to go for dinner, drinks and an unforgettable performance. The Moulin Rouge offers a range of shows from cabaret to ballet, and they even have special events like firework displays.
Whether you’re in the mood for an evening of entertainment or just want to take pictures outside the iconic building, you won’t regret making a stop at the Moulin Rouge.
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See the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris, located at the western end of the Champs-Elysees. It was built in 1806 to honor those who fought for France during the Napoleonic wars and other French victories.
Standing 50 meters high, it’s an impressive sight from the ground and offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck. From there, visitors can view the 12 radiating avenues that symbolically represent the 12 main French cities at the time. Visitors can also explore the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a memorial to all those who died in war.
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Wander through Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens is one of the most beloved parks in Paris. It offers a stunning view of the city, with its green spaces, grand pathways, and calm lakes. The gardens are filled with sculptures, water features, and ornamental flowers, creating a tranquil atmosphere for visitors to relax and enjoy.
The gardens also house the Luxembourg Palace, which is home to the French Senate. There are plenty of things to do in this beautiful park, such as playing pétanque (a French bowling game) or simply enjoying a picnic.
If you're lucky enough to visit during spring or summer, you can take part in outdoor concerts and performances at the outdoor theatre. Whether you want to relax, people-watch, or explore the beauty of Paris, the Luxembourg Gardens is the perfect place to do it.
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Climb to the top of Sacre Coeur
One of the must-sees in Paris is the iconic Sacre Coeur. Situated on the hill of Montmarte, this beautiful basilica offers a stunning view of Paris and its surroundings. The best way to experience it is to climb the 300 steps from the bottom to the top!
This is a great way to get your heart rate up and to experience Paris’s amazing skyline. Once at the top, you can admire the impressive architecture of Sacre Coeur and also enjoy some refreshments at one of the café terraces.
Don't forget to bring your camera – this is an unforgettable experience that you will want to capture forever!
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Take a day trip to Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most impressive structures in all of France, and well worth a day trip out of Paris. The gardens are beautiful and expansive, full of breathtaking fountains and sculptures.
Take a guided tour through the ornate rooms of the palace, which were once home to French royalty. After touring the grounds, take a stroll around the nearby village of Versailles for some shopping, dining and sightseeing.
You can also rent a boat to explore the Grand Canal or even enjoy an opera at the Royal Opera House. Whether you're looking for a grand adventure or just a leisurely day outside the city, Versailles is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
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Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery
The famous Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris is a must-visit destination for history and culture buffs. This sprawling graveyard is the final resting place of some of the most famous French writers, musicians, and actors, including Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Moliere, Oscar Wilde, and Frederic Chopin.
Spend a few hours exploring this somber but stunning setting, where visitors are greeted by stunning statues, monuments, and sculptures. Take time to read the inscriptions on the graves and be sure to visit the highlights of the cemetery, like Chopin's grave, where you can play a song as a tribute.
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Explore the Paris Catacombs
Descend into a mysterious underground world as you explore the Paris Catacombs. Dating back to the 18th century, this network of ancient tunnels is an important part of the city’s history.
The catacombs were once used as a limestone quarry, and later became an ossuary for millions of Parisian dead. The tour takes visitors through tunnels lined with bones and skulls, giving visitors a unique and eerie experience.
Explore the fascinating history and beauty of this unique attraction and take a step back in time. For those who dare to explore, the Paris Catacombs is definitely a must-see.
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Marvel at Palais Garnier
This architectural marvel is a must-see in Paris. Located at the Place de l'Opera, Palais Garnier is home to the world-renowned Paris Opera House and the Paris Opera Ballet. It was built in the late 19th century and is renowned for its lavish design and grandeur.
The building is an exquisite example of French architecture, with its impressive marble sculptures, ornate ceilings and grand chandeliers. Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and artistry behind this beautiful building and to marvel at its beauty.
Finish your visit with a meal in one of the many on-site restaurants, where you can experience the same opulence and elegance as the theater itself.
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Get a bird's eye view from Tour Montparnasse
Visit Tour Montparnasse to get a unique, panoramic view of Paris. This iconic skyscraper stands as the tallest building in the city, with its observation deck located on the 56th floor.
From this height, you can admire an incredible, sweeping view of Paris, from the Eiffel Tower to the Notre Dame Cathedral. As you take in all the sights, be sure to bring your camera for some amazing photos.
The area around the tower also offers plenty of cafes and restaurants to enjoy after you take in the stunning views. Tour Montparnasse is a must-visit for any traveler looking for an unbeatable view of Paris.
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Shop at Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is one of the most renowned department stores in Paris. Founded in 1893, it has a long history of offering luxury goods to its customers. Located on Boulevard Haussmann in the 9th arrondissement, the store features a beautiful domed glass roof and grand galleries filled with the latest fashion, accessories, and homewares.
The ground floor boasts a food court where visitors can find gourmet treats and delicious meals. The store also has several specialty boutiques where shoppers can find unique items.
The Galeries Lafayette experience is not to be missed by any traveler to Paris. From the grand entrance to the vast selection of goods, you'll find something that's sure to please your tastes.
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Enjoy a day at Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get their fill of family fun. From classic rides and attractions to cutting-edge shows and parades, this iconic theme park offers something for everyone.
Get up close with your favorite characters during meet-and-greets, have lunch with Mickey Mouse and his friends in one of the park's themed restaurants, or take a spin on one of the thrilling roller coasters.
When the sun goes down, the park continues to entertain with colorful shows and fireworks displays that light up the night sky. A visit to Disneyland Paris is sure to create lasting memories for everyone in the family.
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