Things to do in Paris
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1. Eiffel Tower
(Tour Eiffel)
1. Eiffel Tower
(Tour Eiffel)Historical, Monument • $$
The Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. It is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower. Constructed from 1887–89 as the entrance to the 1889 World's Fair, it was initially criticized by some of France's leading artists and intellectuals for its design, but it has become a global cultural icon of France and one of the most recognizable structures in the world. The Eiffel Tower is the most-visited paid monument in the world; 6.91 million people ascended it in 2015. -
Neighborhood
Montmartre is an iconic neighborhood located in Paris, France. Located just outside of the city's central area and easily reached by public transport, it is one of the most popular attractions for visitors to the city. The picturesque cobbled streets offer a glimpse into the past and are home to some of Paris' most famous landmarks such as the Sacre Coeur Basilica and Moulin Rouge. Visitors can also explore many art galleries, cafes and street performers that make Montmartre a delightful place to visit. One must-see experience while visiting Montmartre is taking a ride on its century-old funicular railway which offers stunning views over the city from its top station. And if you're lucky enough to visit during August, be sure to join in on celebrations at Place du Tertre - one of Paris' oldest squares filled with artists selling their works! -
3. Louvre Museum
(Musée du Louvre)
3. Louvre Museum
(Musée du Louvre)Museum • $$
The Louvre Museum located in the city of Paris is one of the largest and most renowned museums in the world. It houses a collection of some 35,000 works that range from antiques to modern masterpieces, and is home to invaluable artifacts like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and Winged Victory. A visit to the Louvre provides a unique opportunity to explore an unrivaled selection of artworks. The stunning Louis XIV-style building creates a beautiful backdrop for exhibits such as French sculptures from the 18th century; Islamic Art room with its intricate objects; Ancient Egypt antiquities; and Italian paintings from Renaissance masters like Raphael and da Vinci. Those who visit cannot miss out on seeing Leonardo da Vinci's iconic masterpiece, Mona Lisa. Likewise, be sure not to miss out on Winged Victory sculptured by artist Powolski - it stands atop its plinth before you at full scale when viewed on ground level in its original location within the museum's courtyard near Napoleon III Apartments. -
Bridge
The Pont Alexandre III, located in the heart of Paris, is a stunning landmark that is widely regarded as the most ornate, extravagant bridge in the city. It was built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition to honor Alexander III, Tsar of Russia. This impressive structure is adorned with gilded lamps and statues of winged horses at both ends, making it a magnificent sight from afar. When crossing over this bridge, visitors can admire its intricate sculptures and ornate details that make it truly stand out against the Parisian skyline.
Amongst other things to see while visiting Pont Alexandre III are the two large posts located on either side of the bridge that represent French victories during WWI and WWII as well as some noteworthy statues like Napoleon Bonaparte's Horse-drawn Chariot placed near one end of the bridge. The surrounding area also features beautiful gardens and parks perfect for spending an afternoon stroll along this remarkable piece of architecture. -
Monument
The iconic Arc de Triomphe stands majestically in the center of Paris, France. The structure was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honor his army's victory at the Battle of Austerlitz and its completion was celebrated in 1836. Standing 50 meters tall and 45 meters wide, it is one of the most recognized monuments in Europe. As you walk around it, take a moment to admire the sculptures that adorn its four corners as well as observe an eternal flame burning in memory of unknown soldiers from WWI. At the top of Arc de Triomphe lies an observation deck where visitors can get stunning views over Paris' avenues and monuments like Eiffel Tower. Don't forget to make time for its underground museum filled with interesting history about this beautiful monument! -
6. Orsay Museum
(Musée d'Orsay)
6. Orsay Museum
(Musée d'Orsay)Museum
The Orsay Museum, located in Paris, France, is one of the most prestigious art museums in the world. Its collection includes some of the most renowned pieces from French artists like Manet and Monet. In addition to these masterpieces, the Orsay Museum houses sculptures and graphic arts from a variety of different periods spanning from 1848 to 1914.
When visiting the museum, be sure to check out some of its most coveted works such as Gustave Courbet's "The Wave" painting and Auguste Rodin's iconic sculpture "The Thinker". Other must-sees include Eugene Delacroix's masterpiece "Liberty Leading The People" and Edgar Degas's painting of two dancers titled "Ballet Rehearsal on Stage". -
Neighborhood
Le Marais is a historic and fashionable district located in the heart of Paris, known for its vibrant blend of old-world charm and contemporary culture. This district is a labyrinth of narrow medieval lanes, filled with art galleries, trendy boutiques, and traditional bistros. The area is also home to the city's oldest planned square, the Place des Vosges, a beautiful symmetrical square lined with pink brick houses.
One of the main attractions in Le Marais is the Musée Picasso, housing an impressive collection of more than 5,000 works by Pablo Picasso. Another must-visit is the Hôtel de Ville, Paris's city hall, a stunning example of neo-Renaissance architecture. Le Marais is also known for its Jewish heritage, with the Rue des Rosiers at its heart, offering a variety of Jewish bakeries, delis, and synagogues. -
8. Notre Dame Cathedral
(Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris)
8. Notre Dame Cathedral
(Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris)Historical, Place of worship
Notre Dame Cathedral is an awe-inspiring Gothic structure located in the heart of Paris. This iconic site stands proud on the Ile de la Cite, a small island in the middle of the Seine River. The construction of this masterpiece began in 1163 and was completed over two centuries later, marking it as one of Paris' oldest landmarks. Although it sustained some damage during World War II, recent renovations have restored much of its original beauty.
When visiting Notre Dame Cathedral, don't miss out on admiring its spectacular stained-glass windows which depict various stories from the Bible or scaling its towers to get an amazing view over Paris. Also be sure to visit inside too; you'll find breathtaking features like carved stone corridors and soaring columns that will leave you speechless! -
Point of Interest
Place des Vosges, located in the heart of Paris, France, is the city's oldest planned square. Constructed by Henri IV from 1605 to 1612, it's a perfect square that embodies the Renaissance's ideals of symmetry and balance. The square is surrounded by 36 red-brick and stone houses, each with steeply pitched slate roofs, creating a uniform and picturesque setting.
Visitors to Place des Vosges can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lush central park, adorned with beautiful fountains and statues. The square is also home to the Maison de Victor Hugo, where the famous French author lived from 1832 to 1848. The house is now a museum dedicated to Hugo's life and works, including "Les Miserables" and "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame", making it a must-visit for literature enthusiasts. -
Museum
The Grevin Museum, located in the heart of Paris, France, is a renowned waxwork museum that offers a unique experience to its visitors. Established in 1882, the museum houses over 200 wax figures of historical and contemporary celebrities, ranging from Albert Einstein to Michael Jackson, providing an engaging journey through time.
While visiting the Grevin Museum, one of the must-see attractions is the Hall of Mirrors, a magical light and sound show created in 1900. Another highlight is the Grevin Theatre, a 19th-century Italian-style theatre that hosts various performances and events. The museum also offers a discovery tour, where visitors can explore the secrets behind the creation of wax figures. -
Historical, Museum
The Musée de l'Orangerie is an art gallery of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings located in the west corner of the Tuileries Gardens next to the Place de la Concorde in Paris. -
Bridge
The Pont des Arts is a must-visit pedestrian bridge in Paris, France, renowned for its romantic allure. Spanning the Seine River, it connects the Institut de France and the central square of the Palais du Louvre. Known as the "Bridge of Love," it was once covered in 'love locks' until their removal in 2015 due to structural concerns.
While visiting the Pont des Arts, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Seine River and the iconic landmarks surrounding it, including the Louvre and Notre Dame. The bridge itself is a popular spot for picnics, artists, and photographers. It's also famous for its vibrant atmosphere, often filled with street performers and musicians, making it a lively cultural hub in the heart of Paris. -
Historical, Opéra
Palais Garnier is one of the most beautiful architectural landmarks in all of Paris. Built between 1860 and 1875, this opulent building was designed by Charles Garnier in a neo-Baroque style. The Palais Garnier is home to the French National Opera, but it also serves as a stunning and iconic tourist destination. Visitors can explore its grand marble staircases, expansive foyers and splendid auditorium during regular visits or guided tours. While touring this magnificent building, visitors should be sure to admire the remarkable Grand Staircase with its gilded cherubs, velvet balconies and ornate ceiling frescoes depicting scenes from Greek mythology - an absolute must-see when visiting Palais Garnier! -
Park
The Tuileries Gardens take their name from the tile factories which previously stood on the site where Queen Catherine de Medici built the Palais des Tuileries in 1564. André Le Nôtre, the famous gardener of King Louis XIV, re-landscaped the gardens in 1664 to give them their current French formal garden style. The gardens, which separate the Louvre from the Place de la Concorde, are a pleasant place for walking and for culture for Parisians and tourists; Maillol statues stand alongside those of Rodin or Giacometti. The gardens’ two ponds are perfect places to relax by. The Musée de l’Orangerie, where visitors can admire the works of Monet, is in the south-west part of the Tuileries. From March to December, free tours in French are organized. Lovers of candyfloss and fairground rides will enjoy the Fête des Tuileries, from June to August. -
Monument
The Place de la Concorde is one of the major public squares in Paris, France. Measuring 7.6 ha in area, it is the largest square in the French capital. It is located in the city's eighth arrondissement, at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées. It was the site of many notable public executions, including the executions of King Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette and Maximilien Robespierre in the course of the French Revolution, during which the square was temporarily renamed Place de la Révolution.