So you are planning a trip to Paris and want to know the TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN PARIS?
Paris is known as the City of Love for many reasons. The charming atmosphere of the city, with its iconic landmarks and romantic views of the River Seine, has long been a draw for couples. The city’s many parks, gardens, and cozy cafes make it a perfect place for couples to spend time together. Paris is also known for its history of art and romance, with many of the world’s greatest writers, artists, and musicians having spent time in the city.
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The city’s vibrant culture and nightlife, with its many restaurants and clubs, have made it a popular destination for lovers looking to have a romantic night out. All of these things have come together to create a romantic atmosphere that has made Paris renowned as the City of Love.
From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and captivating city. With so much to see and do, visitors to Paris should plan ahead and make the most of their time.
I have been fortunate enough to have visited Paris several times and each time I discover something new and find more reasons to love this city of love!
If this is your first time in Paris I would suggest you start by familiarizing yourself with the city’s main attractions and the different arrondissements, or districts, of Paris. Then, dive into the city’s culture by visiting its many museums, galleries, and gardens.
Enjoy a stroll through the many parks, sample the delicious French cuisine, or take a romantic cruise down the Seine. Paris is a city full of adventure and beauty, and we hope you have an unforgettable time exploring it!
You may feel a little overwhelmed trying to navigate the city.
Getting to the centre of Paris from the Paris – Charles-de-Gaulle and Paris – Orly airports, and getting around in the capital is both simple and quick.
The RATP operates many metro lines and regional train (RER) lines from 6am to around 1am depending on whether it is a weekday or a weekend. The public transport system also includes an extensive bus network and several tram lines. See maps of Paris transport.
You can also visit Paris on a Eurail Pass. If you are planning on visiting other cities in France or perhaps venturing into other countries in Europe, then a rail pass is jsut what you need.
Read my article here about HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT EUROPEAN RAIL JOURNEY as I share all about the various rail passes and their perks.
Paris is divided up into 20 large administrative districts. Beginning at the centre of the city, they curl round in a clockwise direction like a snail shell. To find out which “arrondissement” you are in, you will find it on all the street signs.
You can obtain free maps from the ticket offices in metro stations, in the department stores and at all the information centres of the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau (the latter is available in English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese and Russian!). You will also find paying maps of Paris in kiosks throughout the city, showing the details of Paris by arrondissement.
One of the best ways to find your feet in Paris is to take a Hop-On/Hop-Off City Tour with English guide. This will help you see most of the must do sights without having to navigate your own way around Paris. The Big Bus Company offer 1-day or 2-day sightseeing bus passes with audio in 11 languages.
Of course as a first time visitor you won’t want to miss the MUST see attractions, so here are my Top 10 things to do in Paris.
1. VISIT THE EIFFEL TOWER
Of course the number one thing on the list of Top 10 Things To Do in Paris is to visit the Eiffel Tower.
The Eiffel Tower is an iconic monument in Paris, France. It was constructed in 1889 and stands 324 meters tall, making it the tallest man-made structure in the world at the time. It is considered an architectural masterpiece and is visited by millions of people every year.
There are so many wonderful things to do on the Eiffel Tower! Start off by taking a ride to the top for breathtaking views of Paris. From there, you can explore the many attractions available like the Eiffel Tower restaurants, where you can dine with a view of the city.
For a unique experience, take a guided tour of the tower and learn about its history and design. For the adventurous, you can try the Eiffel Tower summit climb, where you’ll get to the highest point of the tower and take in the panoramic views of Paris.
At night, the Eiffel Tower offers some of the most beautiful light shows in the world. Take a stroll on the Trocadero Esplanade overlooking the tower and watch its sparkling light show.
When I was last in Paris I organised a picnic to be delivered to us at the base of the Eiffel Tower, which was absolutely delicious! There was something extra special about eating a baguette on the lawn in front of the most famous landmark in France.
There are several picnic companies that offer this service and I would highly recommend taking full advantage. I would say this was the highlight of my time in Paris!
2. VISIT THE LOUVRE
The Louvre is one of the most famous art museums in the world!
There are several things to do at the Louvre that are both educational and fun. You can take a guided tour to learn more about the artwork and the museum’s history.
You can also explore the museum at your own pace and take in the various artworks and artefacts. There are several interactive exhibits and activities for children and adults alike. Finally, the museum offers plenty of educational and cultural activities such as lectures, art classes, and workshops.
If you are travelling to Paris during peak season, I would suggest heading to the Louvre first thing in the morning. We arrived an hour and a half before it opened and still had to join a line. By the time the doors opens the line behind us was massive! It also saves time if you purchase your ticket in advance!
If you are planning on viewing the Mona Lisa I would suggest making your way straight to the hall she is on display in. The painting itself is not very large and once the crowd is several people deep you may struggle to see her!
3. STROLL THE CHAMPS-ELYSEES
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most iconic avenues in the world, located in the heart of Paris. It is known for its impressive monuments, luxurious shops and restaurants, and bustling nightlife. The avenue is 1.2 miles long and runs from the Place de la Concorde in the east to the Arc de Triomphe in the west.
The famous avenue is lined with trees and has some of the most beautiful buildings in the world, such as the Grand Palais, Petit Palais, and the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées. Whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll, a luxurious shopping experience, or a night out on the town, the Champs-Élysées has something for everyone. Definitely a must see to tick off your TOP 10 THINGS TO DO IN PARIS!
4. VISIT NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL
Notre Dame Cathedral is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture. It is one of the most visited monuments in the world, and for good reason. You can take a tour of the interior to get a better understanding of the history and architecture, or take a guided tour of the outside to get a better view of the structure’s exterior.
On the evening of 15 April 2019, a large fire partially destroyed the upper part of Notre-Dame Cathedral which meant that it was closed to the public whilst it was made safe and restored as much as possible. From May 31, 2020, the cathedral’s parvis became accessible to the public, a first step towards the full reopening of Notre-Dame. The archaeological crypt is now open to the public.
However, the cathedral’s towers and treasures will be closed to the public until further notice.
On Thursday 8 September 2022, the Pont au Double once again became accessible to the public. This footbridge, reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, makes it possible to move easily from the Notre-Dame square to the Left Bank and vice versa.
There are also plenty of activities and attractions nearby, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Latin Quarter. For a truly unique experience, take a boat ride on the Seine River to get a different perspective of the cathedral and the city. No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in and around Notre Dame Cathedral.
5. SHOP AT THE GALERIES LAFAYETTE
Galeries Lafayette is one of the most iconic department stores in France. Located in the heart of Paris, the store has been a staple of the city’s shopping scene since 1895. Galeries Lafayette offers a luxurious shopping experience, with a wide range of designer brands and exclusive merchandise. Additionally, there are several attractions in the store that make it a unique destination.
The Galeries Lafayette Grand Dome is an awe-inspiring glass dome that offers breathtaking views of the city. The Galeries Lafayette Gourmet is a food hall where you can enjoy an array of the finest delicacies. And the Galeries Lafayette Home Design showcases the latest trends in interior design. Whatever you’re looking for, Galeries Lafayette is sure to have it!
6. CLIMB THE ARC DE TRIOMPHE
The Arc de Triomphe is a large triumphal arch located in the center of Paris, France. It stands 164 feet high, and is one of the most iconic monuments in the city. Built between 1806 and 1836, the arch was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to honour the soldiers of the French Revolution and those who fought in the Napoleonic Wars.
The arch is decorated with sculptures and inscriptions honouring military victories, and is a key part of the city’s history and culture.
If you are feeling energetic you can climb to the top of the arc and enjoy stunning views across Paris.
Whilst strolling around the foot of the Arc be sure to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier located beneath the Arc.
There are free audio tours available or you can admire the intricate carvings and sculptures on the walls of the Arc.
I was personally surprised at how big the Arc is and also shocked by the chaos of the traffic around it!
7. VISIT THE JARDIN DES TUILERIES
The Jardin des Tuileries is a stunning public garden located in the heart of Paris, France. It stretches from the Louvre Museum to the Place de la Concorde and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. There are a variety of activities to do in the Jardin des Tuileries, such as exploring the formal gardens, admiring the sculptures and fountains, or simply taking a stroll through the grounds.
As the gardens are located near the Louvre, visitors can also take a break from sightseeing to relax in the peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, the Tuileries hosts events throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts and art exhibitions, making it a great place to spend time with friends and family.
8. ENJOY A SHOW AT THE MOULIN ROUGE
The Moulin Rouge is a world-famous cabaret in Paris, France. It was opened in 1889 and has been entertaining audiences with its unique blend of music, dance, theatre, and spectacle ever since. The venue is known for its iconic red windmill, its lavish interior design, and its diverse cast of performers, including the famous Can-Can dancers.
The Moulin Rouge is an iconic symbol of Parisian culture and a must-see destination for visitors from all over the world. I highly recommend booking your tickets well in advance and these shows sell out most nights.
9. TAKE A CRUISE ALONG THE SEINE
The Seine is a major river in France, running through Paris and the surrounding countryside. It is over 770 kilometres (480 miles) long, and forms an important part of the country’s geography and culture.
Famous sights along the Seine include the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, as well as many other historic monuments and picturesque river banks. The river is also home to many types of wildlife, including fish and waterfowl, and provides numerous recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
Taking a boat tour along the Seine River in Paris is a must-do activity! You can take a traditional bateau mouche tour and enjoy the sights of the city and its landmarks, or explore the river by kayak or electric boat.
If you’re looking for a more leisurely experience, you can take a river cruise and dine on the water while taking in the stunning views of the French capital. Another great activity is to take a walking tour along the banks of the Seine and explore the many bridges, monuments, and stunning architecture that line its banks. Of course, don’t forget to bring a camera – the photos you’ll capture will be unforgettable!
10. VISIT DISNEYLAND PARIS
Disneyland Paris is located in Marne-la-Vallée, France, about 32 km (20 miles) east of the centre of Paris.
To get there, the easiest way is to take the high-speed train (TGV) from Paris Gare du Nord to Marne-la-Vallée Chessy station. The journey takes about 35 minutes and tickets can be purchased online. Alternatively, you can take a bus or drive to the park.
There are so many things to do, from thrilling rides and attractions to incredible shows and parades. You can explore the many themed lands, including Fantasyland, Adventureland, Frontierland, Discoveryland, and Main Street USA.
There are also plenty of restaurants, shops, and boutiques to explore. You can also visit the Disney village for a night of exciting entertainment and dining. With so much to do, you won’t be disappointed!
No matter how long you stay in Paris, you will never run out of things to do and see!
The city is truly a one-of-a-kind destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Have you been to Paris? What were your favourite things to do? I would love you to share your experience with others in the comments below…
Happy Travels!
Rebecca Henley
Rebecca was first bitten by the travel bug at the age of 7 when she emigrated to Australia from England with her family. Since then she has been travelling the world, working in the travel industry as a Travel Consultant and creating travel related content in the form of blogs and travel guide videos.
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