If you’re visiting Paris, the amount of things to do and see can be overwhelming. We look at 10 of the best things to do in Paris.
Did you know that over 30 million people visit Paris each year?
And it’s easy to see why because there are so many different cultural and historical things to do and see.
Whether you love architecture, history, or just sitting at a cafe and watching the world go by, Paris has it all.
Keep reading to discover our guide on the things to do in Paris and fill your holiday with an exciting itinerary.
What to do in Paris?
Tourist attractions are aplenty in the bustling city of Paris, so you can be sure that your adventure will be filled with excitement and beauty. There are also many hidden gems within the city, for those who want to experience something a little different.
Whatever you’re looking for out of your holiday to Paris, make sure you put these top things to do in Paris on your list:
Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without a trip to the Eiffel Tower. It is one of Paris’s most iconic tourist attractions and it attracts over 7 million tourists each year. The Tower was constructed in 1889 and is over 300 meters in height.
You can take a ride up the elevator and marvel at the breath-taking panoramic views at the tops. Or you can just take some impressive photos of the tower at the bottom, which would be sure to make all your family and friends jealous.
The Louvre
Culture fanatics must take a trip to the Louvre. This museum is packed full of wonderous art collections from some of the world’s most famous artists, including Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
The sleek glass pyramid building outside the museum is also a wonder in itself to see, especially if you’re an architectural lover.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Speaking of architecture, you need to make sure that a visit to Paris’s Notre-Dame Cathedral is on your to-do list. This stunning Gothic cathedral combines an array of beautiful architectural details such as rose windows and Gothic carvings.
The cathedral was built in 1163 and it took over 100 years of hard labor to complete. Notre-Dame was also the setting of Victor Hugo’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre-Dame’.
Arc de Triomphe
One of the best things to do in Paris is sightseeing because there are so much culture and history to take it, such as the Arc de Triomphe (Triumphal Arch). This stunning arch stands at the western end of the bustling Champs-Élysées and is engraved with some of the greatest French historic victories, battles, and military leaders.
If you want a sightseeing experience filled with history there is no better place to come than the Arc de Triomphe.
Château de Versailles
The Château de Versailles (Palace of Versailles) is situated 14 miles southwest of Paris in Versailles but is definitely worth the trip. This large grandeur palace was once a former seat of power that belonged to King Louis XIV.
Among the gold figurines, dramatic frescoes, and sparkling crystal chandeliers, you’ll also learn about the interesting history of the royals. The 2,300-room palace invites tourists to explore the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Opera House, the Royal Chapel, the King’s Private Apartments, and the extensive gardens.
You can even book a special tour to help ensure you avoid a line and get to see more of the beautiful Château de Versailles.
The Catacombs of Paris
If you’re thinking of what to see in Paris, but want to see something that is a little different, then you need to visit The Catacombs of Paris. Underneath the bustling city, there’s a giant collection of bones and ossuaries.
In the 18th century, Paris’s cemeteries were at full capacity and were struggling to deal with all the dead bodies, so they took over 6 million bodies underground. If your stomach is strong enough to see the skulls and bones that line the walls of the underground caves then this is a must-see!
Moulin Rouge
Visit the spiritual birthplace of the modern can-can dance, by taking a trip to the Moulin Rouge. Close to Montmartre, the Moulin Rouge offers glamourous night shows.
Visitors can be wined and dined while watching burlesque dancers perform impressive shows. Moulin Rouge was opened in 1889 and has since become an important staple in the City of Lights.
Jardin des Tuileries
Take a break from the noise and enjoy a peaceful stroll around the 55-acre garden at the Jardin des Tuileries. This magnificent garden is situated near the Louvre and is the ideal spot for relaxing.
Why not take a picnic and enjoy a peaceful lunch in the Jardin des Tuileries? Alternatively, you can explore the extensive gardens which were once for the use of the royal family and court.
Seine River
In the heart of Paris, you’ll find the Seine River, which flows from east to west and divides the city into the Left Bank and the Right Bank.
There are many ways you can enjoy the river, such as taking a boat trip down to explore the city from the water. Traveling by foot over the 37 bridges that cross the river and taking photos. Or you might choose to amble down the banks of the river and find local Parisians who sell goods by the river.
Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann
Paris is undoubtedly the city of love, but it is also the city of fashion. This is why you should take a trip to the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. The 750,000 square foot shopping center is home to hundreds of brands from budget-friendly stores to high-end labels.
If shopping isn’t your thing, this department store can still be enjoyed by all. As the stunning neo-Byzantine glass dome which sits 141 feet above ground in the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann is something of undeniable beauty.
Follow our Guide of Things to do in Paris
There is so much to do and so many things to see in Paris, which is why it is one of the most popular destinations in the world. If you’re planning your next trip and are thinking of visiting France’s capital city, make sure you follow our guide of things to do in Paris.
Check out some of our other blogs for some great traveling tips and to find your next destination after Paris.
