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Things to do in Paris

Things to do in  Paris

Welcome to Paris

Even first-time visitors experience a sense of familiarity when they arrive in Paris, with its instantly recognizable monuments, tightly packed bistro terraces, and chic boutiques. The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum are three attractions rarely left off any itinerary—and for good reason. For more, add on a Seine River cruise, Montmartre walking tour, Moulin Rouge dinner show, and day trip to the Palace of Versailles. But for all its iconic scenery and artistic treasures, there’s something to be said for discovering the City of Light like a Parisian, with leisurely visits to cafés, boulangeries, and the narrow alleyways of ‘arrondissements’ (neighborhoods).

Top 15 attractions in Paris

#1
Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower

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The Eiffel Tower isn't just a symbol of Paris but a symbol for all of France. Erected by Gustave Eiffel to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution in 1889, the 1,050-foot (320-meter) tower once held the title of the world's tallest structure. Despite having been dwarfed by Dubai's Burj Khalifa and The Shard in London, the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. View the architectural icon from afar, or stop in at the three observation levels for stellar city views.More
#2
Louvre

Louvre

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Primarily associated with the steady gaze of Leonardo Da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa, Paris' Louvre museum is home to a 35,000-strong collection of paintings and sculptures considered one of the greatest in the world. The contemporary glass Louvre Pyramid heralds the museum's entrance, which millions of tourists flock to every year to feast their eyes on masterpieces that span from antiquity to the 20th century.More
#3
River Seine

River Seine

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The lifeblood of Paris, the River Seine acts as a dividing line between Paris’ historically sophisticated and bohemian halves; it provides transportation via riverboat and plenty of opportunity for romantic strolls; and its riverbanks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with the city’s top landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Musée d’Orsay, Jardin des Tuileries, and the Louvre.More
#4
Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral

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Second only to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) is one of Paris' most iconic attractions, a marvel of medieval architecture that was immortalized in Victor Hugo's classic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Today, the Gothic grandeur and stained-glass windows of the UNESCO World Heritage site continue to reign supreme from Ile de la Cite, an island in the middle of the Seine River.(UPDATE: Notre Dame Cathedral is currently off-limits due to fire damage.)More
#5
Orsay Museum (Musée d'Orsay)

Orsay Museum (Musée d'Orsay)

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Rivaling the Louvre as Paris' favorite art museum, the Orsay Museum (Musée d'Orsay) is known for its impressionist, post-impressionist, and art nouveau works from 1848 to 1914. Equally impressive as what’s inside the museum is its exterior: a former Beaux-Arts railway station with an enviable location on the banks of the Seine River. Both architecture and art buffs will want this museum on their Parisian itineraries.More
#6
Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge

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Expect bright lights, extravagant costumes, and raucous music at the world-famous Moulin Rouge. Opened in the Belle Epoque of 1889 to celebrate Paris' thriving creative scene and the end of the civil war, the windmill-cum-cabaret hall has never stopped basking in fun and frivolity. As a staple of Parisian nightlife, an unforgettable evening at the Moulin Rouge is a must on any traveler's France itinerary.More
#7
Grand Palais

Grand Palais

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The Grand Palais is one of Paris’ most beautiful and recognizable structures. Debuted in 1900 in time for the World’s Fair, the architectural marvel is famed for its colossal nave, Beaux-Arts architecture, and immense glass roof. Today, the Grand Palais houses several gallery areas and also hosts tournaments, Chanel fashion shows, and other major events.More
#8
Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin)

Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin)

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Paris’ Latin Quarter is a popular, historical area of the Left Bank. Home to the main Sorbonne campus, this dynamic, student-filled neighborhood was once frequented by Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and other revolutionaries. Today it’s distinguished for its buzzing cafés, lively restaurants, and must-see landmarks.More
#9
Pont Alexandre III

Pont Alexandre III

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One of many bridges that cross the Seine, Pont Alexandre III was officially unveiled in 1900. Widely considered the city’s most beautiful and opulent bridge, it connects the Champs-Élysées and Grand Palais on the Right Bank with Invalides on the Left, making it a popular thoroughfare for tour groups and amblers.More
#10
Avenue des Champs-Élysées

Avenue des Champs-Élysées

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The Arc de Triomphe looks down upon the grand tree-lined boulevard that is Avenue des Champs-Élysées: one of Paris’ most memorable sights and one of the world’s most famous avenues. It’s not just the striking architecture that captivates visitors—the shopping street is lined with designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and fine restaurants.More
#11
Montmartre

Montmartre

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Crowned by the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, historic Montmartre in Paris’ 18th arrondissement is famed for its cobblestone streets, artsy past and present, and central hill. Visitors flock here to imagine what life was like during the Belle Epoque—when artists such as Dalí, Renoir, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Picasso lived and worked in Montmartre—as well as get their portrait sketched in Place du Tertre.More
#12
Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde

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Situated on the right bank of the Seine River and flanked by the idyllic Tuileries Garden and the grand boulevard of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde is the largest square in Paris. The infamous guillotines of the French Revolution were located here, but today the square is best known for striking monuments, elegant hotels, and elaborate fountains.More
#13
Arc de Triomphe

Arc de Triomphe

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An instantly recognizable symbol of Paris, the colossal Arc de Triomphe stands at the epicenter of Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 of the city’s busiest avenues converge. The Napoleon-commissioned monument, adorned with high-relief sculptures depicting sword-wielding soldiers and inscribed with the names of generals and battles, celebrates French military victories and remembers all those who have fought on behalf of France. The top of the arch, accessible via 284 steps, affords superb views over all of Paris.More
#14
Pont Neuf

Pont Neuf

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Though it translates to “New Bridge” in French, the Pont Neuf is in fact the oldest bridge in Paris, built in 1607 to connect the banks of the river Seine to Ile de la Cite. Known in the 18th and 19th centuries for its unsavory street vendors and pickpockets, Pont Neuf is now a tranquil pedestrian bridge and meeting place for visitors and locals alike.More
#15
Palace of Versailles

Palace of Versailles

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Formerly a humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles (Chateau de Versailles) is the extravagant creation of Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. Embellished to epitomize royal decadence, Versailles features 700 rooms replete with frescoed ceilings and carvings, plus the Versailles Gardens (Jardins de Versailles), which brim with geometrically designed walkways and fountains. No visit to France is complete without experiencing the grandeur.More

Trip ideas

The Do's and Don'ts of the Paris Catacombs

The Do's and Don'ts of the Paris Catacombs

6 Must-See Paris Museums

6 Must-See Paris Museums

Top activities in Paris

Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise
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Skip the Line Ticket Eiffel Tower Summit Priority Access with Host
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Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Venus de Milo & Mona Lisa
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Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

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From
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Disneyland® Paris 1-Day Ticket

Disneyland® Paris 1-Day Ticket

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HK$448.94
Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise
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Louvre Museum Skip the Line Access Guided Tour
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Eiffel Tower Skip-The-Line Second Level Access by Elevator
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Louvre Museum Paris Private Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included!)
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Eiffel Tower Skip the Line and Small Group Tour with Summit Access by elevator
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Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting
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Operators have paid Viator more to have their experiences featured here

Recent reviews from experiences in Paris

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Unforgettable
Rasha_A, Aug 2022
Vintage Private Tour: Sidecar Motorcycle Ural Paris (1hr30)
It was one of the best activities that we’ve had in Paris.
star-5
Great way to kick off our first visit to Paris!
Elizabeth_W, Aug 2022
Segway Tour 120 min
Our tour guide spoke great English and shared great historic facts.
star-5
Great value
Susan_J, Aug 2022
Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
We had a very short time in Paris, this was definitely the best way to see the sites, the commentary was invaluable and being able to get off to look at areas more closely was great, didn’t wait more than 5 minutes for another bus when we were ready to move on.
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Paris by river
Sharon_R, Aug 2022
Paris Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Champagne Exclusive Viator
The food was surprisingly very good and it was a relaxing way to see major Paris sites in a unique way.
star-5
Wonderful experience
Glen_M, Aug 2022
Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise
Great way to see parts of Paris.
star-5
Fancy Nancy
John_M, Aug 2022
Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour with Venus de Milo & Mona Lisa
We obviously need many days to see it all.
star-5
Great Fun!
Kathryn_S, Aug 2022
Paris and Montmartre by Night Tour in a 2CV
This is a must do for any 2CV lover, or anyone who wants to see Paris in a fun way!
star-5
Best tour to do your...
Laura_S, Aug 2022
See 30 Plus Top Paris Sights with a Fun Guide (Walking+Metro Tour)
That way you can decide where you want to visit again later.
star-5
Amazing adventure in Paris
Suzanne_S, Aug 2022
Tuktuk in Paris © Private City Tour with Pick Up
As new visitors to Paris, we were able to visit all the important locations and get a feel for how the city works.
star-5
Great evening driving...
Anisah_S, Aug 2022
2 Hours Paris Private Tour in Vintage French Car
We were able to see the city at it best hours of the day and learn a bit about it too.
star-5
Excellent tour with a wonderful guide
Amy_P, Aug 2022
Paris City Sightseeing Half Day Guided Segway Tour with a Local Guide
I would highly recommend this experience as you get to see quite literally everything you need to in Paris without the aching feet!
star-5
Lovely way to see Paris while resting your feet
Christie_M, Aug 2022
Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise
This was a fantastic experience and a great way to see Paris from the comfort of a lovely dining experience.
star-4
Great tour package!
Alexia_C, Jul 2022
Louvre Museum Ticket & Seine River Cruise
The Seine river cruise was great and beautiful way to see many of Paris’ landmarks.
star-5
best on and off tour
Matthew_K, Jul 2022
Tootbus Paris Discovery: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Took the family to Paris, and this was a perfect way to see the city.
star-4
Great way to see the highlights of Paris
Karen_H, Jul 2022
Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
What a wonderful way to see and get around Paris.
star-5
Great way to see Paris
Alicja_W, Jul 2022
Paris Sightseeing Family Friendly Guided Electric Bike Tour
Wonderful way to see Paris when you don't have a lot of time for sightseeing.
star-5
Fantastic way yo see Paris!
Kris_K, Jul 2022
Tuktuk in Paris © Private City Tour with Pick Up
Fantastic way to see Paris!
star-5
Best way to see Paris.
Laurie_F, Jul 2022
Classic Vintage Tour on Sidecar Motorcycle Ural: Best of Paris (1hour)
Would recommend this to anyone wanting a unique, fun way to see some of what Paris has to offer.
star-5
Museum & Cruise
Mark_R, Jul 2022
Louvre Museum Timed Entrance Access with Cruise Ticket
The museum was incredible - there’s so much to see and look at that it’s impossible to complete it all in one day.
star-5
Best way to see Paris at night!!
Kris_K, Jul 2022
Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise
We booked the 8:30 PM dinner with a window seat and we're able to see both the sunset and Paris lit up at night.
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A local’s pocket guide to Paris

Jade Broggio

Jade worked in Paris’ La Défense neighborhood many moons ago and had an amazing time living in Ménilmontant, between the 11th and the 20th arrondissements (districts).

The first thing you should do in Paris is...

immerse yourself in the typical Parisian atmosphere. Order a coffee on the terrace of a bistro in Les Halles and contemplate the bustle of the city.

A perfect Saturday in Paris...

starts with brunch at Shouk, a Mediterranean restaurant in the 10th arrondissement. Then, follow Amélie’s footsteps down the Canal Saint-Martin, before meeting friends at Prune for a glass of wine (or two).

One touristy thing that lives up to the hype is...

Montmartre. Escape the crowds in the Place du Tertre and get lost a little further down the cobbled streets for a more local experience.

To discover the "real" Paris...

visit the 19th arrondissement. I like to stroll along the Buttes Chaumont and the Canal de l'Ourcq, before stopping by La Paname, an incredible brewery that overlooks the canal.

For the best view of the city...

go to the Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Montmartre or leave Paris for nearby Saint-Germain-en-Laye for a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower and La Défense from the Saint-Germain Castle.

One thing people get wrong...

Parisians are not always on strike, but make sure to check the local news before planning your day.

People Also Ask

What should you not miss in Paris?

Paris is home to many unmissable attractions, from iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe to world-class museums including the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay. No visit is complete without strolling through atmospheric neighborhoods like the Marais and the Latin Quarter, or indulging in French baguettes, cheeses, and wine.

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What should I do on my first trip to Paris?

See Paris' top attractions on your first visit to the City of Light: Go on a Seine River cruise to admire many highlights, including the Eiffel Tower, and plan a visit to the Louvre. Ascend to Montmartre for impeccable city views, and visit the iconic Moulin Rouge for an unforgettable cabaret show.

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What are the local specialties in Paris?

Paris is known for its decadent culinary specialities, from croissants and freshly baked baguettes, to colorful macarons, hearty croque-monsieur sandwiches, and other timeless bistro fare. The best of French gastronomy is available in the City of Light, including hundreds of cheeses, exceptional wines (including Champagne), and cured meats.

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What entertainment is there in Paris?

Paris offers an enormous range of entertainment options, from rarified opera and ballet performances to racy cabaret revues at iconic venues such as the Moulin Rouge. Its theaters host a range of plays, comedy nights, and concerts throughout the year, while the Stade de France hosts soccer and rugby games.

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What do locals do for fun in Paris?

Paris locals often bypass touristy neighborhoods like the Latin Quarter in favor of the Canal Saint-Martin district, where they picnic along the water and share bottles of wine in trendy bars. Other locals-frequented destinations include the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, the hip Belleville district, and the boutiques of the Marais.

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Is Paris expensive?

Yes, Paris is expensive. It ranks among the world's most expensive cities, and luxury—from high-end department stores to Michelin-starred meals—is present at every turn. But there are cost-effective ways to explore the city: Enjoy panoramic views from Sacré-Coeur Basilica, window-shop on the Champs-Élysées, and see the cultural attractions of the Parc de la Villette.

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Frequently Asked Questions