33 Things to do in Paris (+ map): Best places to visit

Looking for the best places to visit in Paris? Check out our things to do in Paris and other useful tips. We will show you the known and unknown places in Paris if you would like to see more of Paris.

You’ll also find other practical information in the article: the entrance fees, opening times and how to get to the monuments, so you can plan your Paris itinerary quickly and easily.

Note: We try to keep prices up to date – see the date of the last update at the beginning of this article.

Known as the city of light and the city of love, Paris is full of history, culture and elegance that radiate from every corner. From a romantic cruise on the Seine, to dinner at the Eiffel Tower, to the view from the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, Paris just does it.

The city’s charm will captivate even a complete non-romantic – I know this from personal experience, I have one at home. 🙂

Every neighborhood has a different atmosphere. In the Latin Quarter, you can wander the medieval streets and sample French cuisine. On the Champs-Élysées, you’ll be enchanted by the windows of the most fashionable houses, and you might bring home a piece of Parisian elegance.

Soak up the liveliness and art in the Montmartre district, full of steep cobbled streets, street artists and charming restaurants. The Île de la Cité, the oldest part of Paris, will enchant you with the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Sainte-Chapelle Chapel with its beautiful stained glass windows.

We’ve been here in the off-season as well as the high season, and in this article we’ve written up our experiences and tips on how to enjoy your visit to Paris. Join us for a look at the best things not to miss in Paris.

Things to do in Paris: Best places to visit

What are the best things to do in Paris? From monuments and museums to lush parks and gardens, check out our 33 tips for the most beautiful places in Paris.

1. Cruise on the Seine

Cruise on the Seine is the perfect introduction to Paris. Many of the most famous sights are located right on the banks of the River Seine.

You can start from Notre Dame Cathedral and from there you can see the Louvre, Place de la Concorde or the Orsay Museum and the Eiffel Tower on your right.

Or end the day with a cruise. The view from the river over the beautifully lit Paris is worth it. Book a cruise on the Seine here.

2. Eiffel Tower – things to do in Paris

The Eiffel Tower cannot be missing from any list of things to see in Paris. The city’s landmark, which serves as a perfect reference point.

The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. At 324 metres, it was the tallest building in the world for 4 decades until the Chrysler Building in New York was built.

Today, the Eiffel Tower retains its primacy among the towers. In clear weather you can enjoy a great view of the whole city and the surrounding area.

The Eiffel Tower is made up of 18,000 solid iron parts connected by 2.5 million rivets. In its existence it has changed several colour coats, from red-brown to yellow and chestnut brown to the special Eiffel Tower Brown. Every 7 years, the Eiffel Tower receives a new coat of paint, which is applied with over 60 tonnes of paint.

Overall, we had the opportunity to see all three forms of the Eiffel Tower – unlit, lit and flashing at night. Unless you count the mini versions of the Eiffel Tower from local buyers. 🙂 Each version is worth seeing.

Admission to the Eiffel Tower

Admission fees vary depending on which floor you go up to and whether you walk or take the elevator:

• Elevator to the 2nd floor: €18.80 full; €9.40 for youth 12-24 years; €4.70 for children 4-11 years and disabled persons
• Elevator to the 3rd floor: €29.40 full; €14.70 for youth 12-24 years; €7.40 for children 4-11 years and disabled persons
• Stairs to the 2nd floor: €11.80 full; €5.90 for youth 12-24 years; €3 for children 4-11 years and disabled persons
• Take the stairs to the 2nd floor and from there take the lift to the 3rd floor: €22.40 full; €11.20 for youth 12-24 years; €5.70 for children 4-11 years and disabled persons

Children 4 and under are free, but need tickets to enter. The queues at the elevator tend to be longer than if you walk.

I recommend booking well in advance (you can book up to 2 months in advance). Tickets can be sold out weeks in advance in the evening and in high season they can sell out during the day. For tickets to the Eiffel Tower, click here.

Just show your tickets on your mobile phone at the venue. Make more time for the Eiffel Tower. Buying tickets online saves you time in the ticket queue, but you’ll still face a security check and then a wait at the elevator if you don’t walk (especially at busy times and in the peak season from spring to fall).

If the tickets at the link above are sold out, check here to see if tickets are available for your date.

Opening hours of the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is open daily from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM (09:30-23:45), with last entry at 10:45 PM (22:45). You will choose the specific time when booking your ticket.

Every year in January, maintenance work is carried out on the Eiffel Tower, when you cannot visit the top level of the summit. Only the first and second floors are accessible.

Tip: For one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, visit the Bir-Hakeim Bridge, just a few minutes’ walk along the river.

3. Trocadéro Square

Trocadéro Square is an iconic cobbled square where you can enjoy the best views of the Eiffel Tower. Most people are here at sunset (see photo below).

The whole area is one of the best for photographing the Eiffel Tower. We were also here early in the off-season and already had a chance to see the solicitations and women in gorgeous gowns getting their pictures taken.

To reach the Eiffel Tower, just cross the bridge and you will find yourself directly underneath it. Just watch out for heavy traffic on the bridge and in the surrounding area.

☞ More information: 5-day Paris itinerary (including a map and practical information).

Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid in the courtyard, is the world’s largest and most visited art museum. For this reason, I recommend arriving as early as possible to avoid the crowds and enjoy the world-class artworks, including the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Melo and many other treasures.

The Louvre is not just a museum, but an architectural gem with a rich history. Walking through its corridors is like a journey through time, taking you to different eras and cultures. It’s beautiful and I recommend not to miss the Louvre, even if you’re not interested in art.

☞ Book your entrance to the Louvre in advance to avoid selling out on the spot.

Practical information for visiting the Louvre

The museum is divided into 3 wings, which are thematically focused. You don’t have a chance to see everything in one visit – it’s a good idea to set out which places you want to visit before you visit.

You can pick up a map at the information desk at the beginning to help you find your way around the museum (you’ll need it, it’s huge). The Denon wing is the most crowded, where you can see the Mona Lisa painting (this is where the most people are).

The entrance to the museum is directly through a glass pyramid, where there are signposts. You will then go through a quick security check and enter the main hall. The museum has refreshments, toilets and lockers to store your belongings.

Entrance to the Louvre Museum

• Full admission: €22
• Free admission: Free admission for children up to 18 years of age, young people up to 26 years of age in the European Economic Area, and persons with a disability ID card or severe disability ID card with a need for assistance, including an accompanying person. Free admission for all then applies on the first Friday of the month after 6:00 PM (18:00) (except July and August) and on Bastille Day, 14th 7.

Your ticket to the Louvre also includes admission to the Musée National Eugène-Delacroix.

☞ Book your entrance to the Louvre in advance to avoid selling out on the spot.

Opening hours of the Louvre Museum

The Louvre is open every day except Tuesday:

• Season: Monday, Thursday, and weekend from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (09:00-18:00), Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (09:00-21:00).
• Low season: from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (09:00-18:00)

☞ More information: A detailed guide to the Louvre Museum in Paris.

At the Louvre, you can also see Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, which Napoleon had built in honour of his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. Next door, you can relax in the extensive Tuileries Gardens.

5. Chateau of Versailles

Located just outside Paris, Versailles is an iconic symbol of royal elegance and Baroque art. Originally the hunting lodge of Louis XIII, this majestic chateau was transformed into a lavish mansion during the reign of Louis XIV to showcase the power and wealth of the French monarchy.

Versailles will enchant you with its magnificent gardens designed by André Le Nôtre, which cover an area of 815 hectares. In the gardens you will find countless fountains, statues and carefully tended flower beds. At the heart of the castle is the famous Hall of Mirrors with 357 mirrors, which has witnessed many historical events including the signing of the Treaty of Versailles.

The interiors of the chateau are richly decorated and offer a glimpse into the life of the French kings and their court. In addition to the main chateau, you can also visit the Trianon Manor and the Hameau de la Reine, which served as Marie Antoinette’s private retreat

☞ Make sure you get into the Château de Versailles by booking tickets in advance – tickets often sell out in advance and you can’t get in without booking in advance.

Admission to the Chateau de Versailles

Versailles offers several types of admission from which you can choose exactly what you want to see and experience. Prices are valid when buying tickets online, tickets are more expensive at the door.

Ticket types:

• Full ticket (€32): valid for the entire palace complex, gardens and park.
• Palace ticket (€21): valid for entrance to the palace and the park (not the gardens).
• Trianon Manor tickets (€12.50): entrance to the park and Trianon Manor.
• Musical Fountains tickets (€10.50): access to the park and gardens during the musical fountains performance.
• Musical Gardens tickets (€10): access to the park and gardens during the Musical Gardens performances.

From 2nd July to 31th October 2024, the Music Gardens play Tuesday to Friday, and Wednesday to Friday in June. On weekends there is a musical fountain show.

For us, we can recommend visiting the whole palace, including the gardens – it’s definitely worth paying extra for the full experience while you’re here. The interiors of the palace are beautiful and you can wander the gardens for hours.

Who gets free entry to Versailles?

Children under 18 and young people from the European Union up to the age of 26 are admitted free of charge. Free entry must be booked here. On days when the musical fountains play and the fountain show takes place (only in the season until the end of October), only children under 5 years of age are admitted free of charge.

Opening hours of the Château de Versailles

The Palace of Versailles and the Trianon Estate are open daily except Mondays, the gardens and the park daily including Mondays.

The specific opening hours are as follows:

• Palace of Versailles: April-October from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (09:00-18:30), November-March from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (09:00-17:30).
• Trianon Manor: from 12:00 PM to 6:30 PM (12:00-18:30), from 2 July to 8 September open from 10:00 AM (10:00).
• Gardens of Versailles: from 8:00 AM to 8:30 PM (08:00-20:30).
• Park: from 7:00 AM to 8:30 PM (07:00-20:30).
• Music Gardens: Wednesday to Friday until 28 June and Tuesday to Friday from 2 July to 30 October – always from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (10:00-19:00).
• Musical Fountain Show: weekends in high season from July 2 to October 30, from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM (10:00-19:00), night show every Saturday until September 24, from 8:30 PM to 11:05 PM (20:30-23:05).

☞ More information: Here you can find our detailed guide to visiting Versailles.

6. Disneyland Paris

Visit Disneyland Paris and be transported to a world of dreams and fairy tales.

Located just 32 km east of Paris, Disneyland Paris is a magical kingdom that combines classic Disney tales with modern attractions and unforgettable experiences.

Disneyland Paris includes two main parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, where you can explore different themed areas, from Sleeping Beauty’s magical castle to thrill rides inspired by Star Wars and Pixar films.

The park offers not only exciting attractions, but also a wide range of restaurants, shops and entertainment shows. Every day there are magical parades and evening fireworks shows, which add another layer of magic to the visit.

☞ More information: Here you can find our detailed guide to Disneyland Paris.

Admission and opening hours of Disneyland Paris

The most popular type of ticket to Disneyland are one-day tickets which have different price levels depending on when you visit Disneyland. For a detailed list of prices and tickets, see our guide to Disneyland Paris.

In high season, Disneyland Park is open from 9:30 AM to 11:00 PM (09:30-23:00) and Walt Disney Studios Park is open from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM (09:30-22:00). Disneyland Park is open on weekdays from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM (09:30-21:00) and on weekends from 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM (09:30-22:00). Walt Disney Studios Park is open 9:30am-7pm and 9:30am-9pm on weekends.

☞ More information: Here you can find our detailed guide to Disneyland Paris.

7. Statue of Liberty

Yes, I’m right. It’s not just New York that has its Statue of Liberty. The Parisian one may not be as well known, but it is much more significant for Parisians.

Moreover, it has a great connection with the Statue of Liberty in New York. It was a working version of the sculpture and served as a replica for the creation of a more famous sculpture in the USA.

The Statue of Liberty in Paris was a gift in 1889 from the American community on the 100th anniversary of the Great French Revolution. The statue emphasized the bond between France and the United States and affirmed both nations’ commitment to the republican ideal on which they were founded.

The 11.5 metre high Statue of Liberty is accessible for free on the man-made island of Île aux Cygnes, south of the Eiffel Tower, reached via the Pont de Grenelle bridge. The other option is the Pont de Bir-Hakeim bridge, from which you can cross a narrow island less than a kilometre long, which consists of a walking path with benches and lined with trees. An ideal place to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hotels in Paris 😴

Ibis Paris Tour Eiffel

Popular hotel near the centre and metro

hotelF1 Paris Porte de Châtillon

Cheap but comfortable accommodation in Paris

8. Palais Royal – things to do in Paris

Palais Royal is located opposite the Louvre. It is the perfect place for a short stop and a walk in the gardens. While you’re here, notice the many details. For example, on the chairs and benches there are quotes from famous personalities.

The courtyard is famous for its black and white columns, which everyone likes to take pictures with. In the arcade of the palace there are various shops, from perfumeries to pancake shops.

9. Avenue des Champs-Élysées

Avenue des Champs-Élysées, the most famous boulevard in Paris, was just a deserted wetland in the 17th century. It was then redesigned by André Le Nôtre and centuries later the Parisian urban planner Baron Haussman designed the elegant buildings lining the Champs-Élysées.

Champs-Élysées is divided into an upper and a lower part. The lower part of Place de la Concorde includes Jardins des Champs-Élysées and the Petit Palais art museum.

From the museum, go to the Alexander III Bridge. It’s the Versailles of bridges – richly decorated with golden statues.

The upper part of the Avenue des Champs-Élysées starts at the Arc de Triomphe and represents the Champs-Élysées as we all know it. Lots of tourists, luxury boutiques, restaurants and hotels. But there are also several affordable shops and places to eat.

On Champs-Élysées you may meet people who will try to extort money from you under some pretext. It happened to us twice. Someone starts complimenting you out of the blue? Pay attention and don’t want your wallets deep in your pockets.

10. Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is the largest square in Paris and surrounds some of the most important places in Paris, such as the Tuileries Gardens or the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

In the middle of the square stands a 3,200-year-old Egyptian obelisk, the oldest building in Paris. It was brought here from the temple in Luxor in the 19th century.

Place de la Concorde is also famous in connection with the Great French Revolution, when King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were beheaded here under the guillotine.

11. Arc de Triomphe

Napoleon’s Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris. The famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées starts here and the Tour de France cycling race ends here every year.

The 51 m high monument is dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. The names of the battles and the names of the soldiers are engraved on the shields of the arch.

At the foot of the memorial is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, symbolizing the recognition of all unknown soldiers who died in World War I. The eternal flame is lit here every evening at 6:30 pm (18:00).

Arc de Triomphe stands in the middle of a busy intersection and is reached via an underground passageway (although most people cross the busy intersection).

At the top of the monument is an observation deck, from which you can enjoy one of the best views of Paris – the Arc de Triomphe is located on Place Charles de Gaulle, from where twelve wide, radially arranged avenues stretch out. This view is best seen from the top and provides a unique perspective on the city’s structured layout.

Admission and opening hours for Arc de Triomphe

Admission to the Arc de Trimphe is €16. Free admission for children under 18, EU citizens under 26 and disabled persons. In addition, everyone, regardless of age, is admitted free on the first Sunday of the month.

It is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:30 PM (10:00-22:30) and in season from April to the end of September until 11:00 PM (23:00). The last entry is 45 minutes before the end of opening hours.

☞ Get your tickets by clicking here and skip the line at the venue.

12. Orsay Museum

The Orsay Museum is one of the best museums in Paris. It is housed in the former Gare d’Orsay station building, considered a masterpiece of industrial architecture. The building is beautiful inside and out.

If you love impressionist art, the Orsay is the museum for you. On several floors you will find collections by world artists of the 19th and 20th centuries – Degas, Renoir, Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Cézanne, Bonnard or Lautrec. 1 The best lies in the top 5th floor, including the iconic clock.

Not an art lover but still want to visit some of the museums in Paris? Try the Orsay Museum, which is probably the one you’ll like the most besides the Louvre.

Admission and opening hours of the Orsay Museum

Tickets to the Orsay Museum cost €16. Children, students up to 26 years of age and disabled persons with 1 accompanying person are admitted free of charge. The first Sunday of the month is free for everyone.

The museum is open daily except Mondays from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (09:30-18:00) and on Thursdays until 9:45 PM (21:45). The museum has refreshments, toilets and lockers.

It is definitely better to book tickets to the Orsay Museum in advance – you book a specific time, but you can also arrive a little earlier. Just show your tickets on your mobile phone and you’ll go through a quick security check inside.

13. Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Where to soak up the true Parisian atmosphere you imagine when you think of Paris? Head to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, known for its cafés, restaurants and historic atmosphere.

Visit Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, two of the most famous cafés where intellectuals and artists such as Sartre, Beauvoir and Hemingway gathered. Wander the narrow streets and discover boutiques, bookstores and art galleries.

14. Notre Dame Cathedral – things to do in Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral stands on the ruins of a pagan temple in the oldest part of Paris, on the Île de la Cité, where the Gaulish town of Lutetia was once founded. Although it has been closed since 2019 after a major fire, a visit to Paris would not be complete without it. The cathedral is expected to reopen at the end of 2024.

Notre Dame is the pinnacle of Gothic architecture. This imposing medieval building, which uses 1,300 oak trees from 300-400 years ago, will captivate you with its stained glass windows and many statues and gargoyles. In the south tower is the famous Emmanuel bell, weighing an incredible 13,000 kilograms.

After the French Revolution the cathedral fell into disrepair, but thanks to Victor Hugo’s novel “The Temple of Our Lady of Paris” it became an icon of France and underwent extensive reconstruction.

While you’re at the cathedral, don’t miss a stroll along the Seine River. A short walk away from the centre is a pleasant park where locals gather on weekends to picnic and dance.

15. Sainte Chapelle

Just a 5-minute walk from Notre Dame Cathedral is the Sainte Chapelle, famous for its beautiful stained-glass windows. On an area of 600 square meters, there are 15 windows depicting more than 1,000 stories from the New and Old Testaments. These stained glass windows are a true masterpiece, where the colours and light symbolize the divine and the heavenly Jerusalem.

Admission and opening hours Sainte Chapelle

Admission is €13. Free admission for children under 18, EU youth under 25 and people with disabilities.

It is open daily from 1st April to 30th September from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM (09:00-19:00) and the rest of the year from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (09:00-17:00).

Tip: If you want to enjoy the best view of the stained glass windows, plan to visit the chapel on sunny days as early as 9:00 am. There are queues for Sainte Chapelle and it is better to book tickets in advance. Click here to book your tickets in advance.

16. Fortress Conciergerie

Next to the chapel is the Conciergerie Fortress from the 10th century, which is a remnant of the royal palace. At 14th century, some of the fortress buildings were converted into prisons.

During the reign of Jacobin terror 1793-1795, the palace became a revolutionary tribunal and a prison for Marie Antoinette and Madame du Barry.

Today, the Conciergerie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

There is a beautiful clock on the corner of the fortress, directly opposite the Pont au Change bridge. A hidden gem of the Île de la Cité that many people pass by unnoticed.

Admission and opening hours of the Conciergerie Fortress

Full admission to the fortress costs €13. EU residents up to 26 years old, children up to 18 years old and people with disabilities are admitted free of charge. Book your tickets by clicking here – You have a choice of tickets to the fortress or discounted tickets to the Conciergerie and Sainte Chapelle, located a short walk away.

Open daily from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM (09:30-18:00), with last entry at 5:30 PM (17:30).

17. Panthéon

Although its name is confusing, the neoclassical Pantheon in Paris has nothing in common with the Pantheon in Rome. Its competitors are rather St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican or St Paul’s Cathedral in London.

Panthéon is a monumental building in the Latin Quarter that dominates the vast square. Originally built as a church, it later became a burial place for important personalities. Above the columns on the façade you can see the inscription “Aux grands hommes la patrie reconnaisante”, which translates as “To great men a grateful homeland”.

Panthéon became the final resting place for figures such as Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas and others. In addition to great men, important women, including Marie Curie, also rest here.

For a small fee, you can climb into the dome and enjoy a spectacular view of Paris.

Entrance and opening hours of the Pantheon

Admission to the Pantheon is €13 and €3.50 extra if you also want to visit the viewpoint in the dome. Children up to 18 years and EU youth up to 26 years are free of charge.

The opening hours of the Pantheon vary according to the season: 1 October – 31 March from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (10:00-18:00), 1 April – 30 September from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM (10:00-18:30). The last entry is always 45 minutes before the end of opening hours.

18. Luxembourg Gardens

Where can you just sit on a chair and relax with the Parisians? The Luxembourg Gardens are the ideal place. The locals chat, read or play chess, and the atmosphere is amazing, especially if you’re lucky enough to have a sunny day like us.

On 25 hectares you will find an octagonal pool with a fountain where you can launch small sailing boats, greenhouses with exotic orchids, an orangery, an English-style garden, a café, a playground and, of course, the Luxembourg Palace, which is the seat of the French Senate.

If you’re travelling to Paris with children, the Luxembourg Gardens are a great stop. Children can have fun on the oldest vintage carousel in Paris, ride ponies or watch a puppet show. The Luxembourg Gardens offer an ideal place for relaxation and fun for the whole family.

19. Tour Montparnasse

Where can you experience one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower and Paris? Tour Montparnasse is just a 15-minute walk from the Luxembourg Gardens and the views are spectacular.

The view from the Eiffel Tower is a classic, but from Tour Montparnasse skyscraper you’ll have a fantastic view of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower.

The Tour Montparnasse is a 210-metre-high skyscraper in the district of the same name. You can take one of the fastest lifts in Europe to the open viewpoint.

Upstairs you can sit in the red armchairs and enjoy the panoramic view of the city. The whole viewpoint is secured with glass – there are holes in the glass for taking pictures.

Entrance and opening hours of the Montparnasse skyscraper

Admission to the Montparnasse observation deck is €21, with a reduced admission of €16 for young people over 12 and students and a reduced admission of €9.50 for children aged 4-11 and €10.50 for disabled people.

From April to the end of September it is open from 9:30 AM to 11:30 PM (09:30-23:30), and the rest of the year from 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM (09:30-22:30) and on Friday to Saturday and on public holidays until 11:00 PM (23:00).

☞ Book your view from Tour Montparnasse – Tickets are a few euros more expensive on site.

20. Opera Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier, built in Baroque style, is a symbol of Napoleon’s imperial regime and one of the most important buildings in Paris. The façade of the opera is decorated with classical columns and eight statues representing allegorical figures such as Poetry, Music, Idyll, Recitation, Song, Drama and Dance. The Loggia includes busts of famous composers such as Rossini, Mozart and Beethoven.

The interior of the opera house is breathtaking! Velvet seats, gilded balconies and huge crystal chandeliers create an atmosphere of luxury and elegance. The ceiling features a famous painting by Marc Chagall, which adds a magical touch to the space.

The Palais Garnier is home to the oldest national ballet company in the world, the Ballet de l’Opéra de Paris.

Admission and Opening Hours Opéra Garnier

You have 2 ways to see the opera house from the inside:

• An unguided tour where you can see the beautifully decorated interiors. Admission is €15. Book your tickets by clicking here.
• Attending an evening performance – current programme can be found here.

21. Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter, located on the left bank of the Seine, is one of the most lively and historic areas of Paris. Named after the Latin used in medieval universities, this district is home to the famous Sorbonne and many other important educational institutions.

The streets of the Latin Quarter are lined with bookshops, cafés and bistros, where students, intellectuals and tourists mingle.

This district is full of narrow medieval streets that lead to historic sites such as the Pantheon, where important figures in French history rest, and the magnificent Luxembourg Gardens, the perfect place to relax and stroll.

22. Le Centre Pompidou

In the historic part of Paris, the ultra-modern Le Centre Pompidou cultural centre will take your breath away. Its high-tech architecture is described as “inside out” as it incorporates architectural details of staircases and elevators.

To maximize interior space, the architects turned the structure inside out, revealing a skeleton of brightly colored tubes that are color-coded: blue for air conditioning, green for fluids, yellow for electrical cables, and red for elevators, stairs, and fire extinguishers.

Le Centre Pompidou includes the National Museum of Modern Art, which contains more than 100,000 works of contemporary art since 1905. Each room is divided by time period or art movement, so you’ll find rooms focused on surrealism (Salvador Dali, Max Ernst), constructivism (Paul Klee, Piet Mondrian), pop art (Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg) and more.

During your visit, you can go up to the roof and enjoy a great view of Paris.

Admission and opening hours Le Centre Pompidou

Full admission is €15. The first Sunday of the month is free for everyone. Get your tickets by clicking here and skip the line.

It is open every day except Tuesday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (11:00-21:00).

23. Montmartre – things to do in Paris

Montmartre is a beautiful hilltop neighbourhood with winding, narrow streets, street artists and great food. If you’ve seen Amélie of Montmartre, you might recognize some of the places. Montmartre definitely needs to be on your list of things to do in Paris.

Even though it is full of tourists, it has its own unmistakable atmosphere. I recommend arriving first thing in the morning to soak up the local environment without the crowds.

While you’re here, be sure to check out the beginning of Rue de l’Abreuvoir by the pink house La Maison Rose. This is where artists used to come to the cafe.

From here, continue along Rue des Saules until you reach another photogenic spot – Le Consulat restaurant, with the dome of the Sacré Coeur Basilica peeking out behind it.

24. Sacré-Coeur Basilica

The Sacré-Coeur Basilica, also known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, is one of the most iconic places in the city. It stands at the highest point in Paris in the Montmartre district, which translates as “Mountain of Martyrs”, and is the second highest point in the city after the Eiffel Tower.

Its Romanesque-Byzantine appearance with its marble facade is a departure from the traditional medieval Gothic churches in Paris.

The architects were inspired by the Basilica of San Marco in Venice and Hagia Sophia in Istanbul when building the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Locals call it “Whipped Cream Cake” because of its white, decorated facade. Inside the church you will find a beautiful golden mosaic of Christ, one of the most beautiful works of art in Paris.

Below the basilica is a long staircase with a view, a small park and a view of Paris.

Admission and opening hours of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica

You can enter for free. The view from the dome is charged at €8 and €5 for children under 15.

The basilica is open from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM (06:00-22:30), and the dome is open between 10:30 AM and 8:30 PM (10:30-20:30).

The Sacré-Coeur Basilica is very popular and long queues form in the morning to get in. Come early in the morning or in the evening to avoid waiting in line.

25. Cabaret Moulin Rouge

Moulin Rouge is located in the Pigalle district, below Montmartre, where the windmills once stood. One of these mills became home to the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret, which opened in 1889.

At that time, courtesans worked here and invented the seductive dance of the cancan. This dance was initially considered shameless, but gradually gained popularity all over the world.

Today, the Moulin Rouge is still extremely popular. Tickets for the show are often sold out in advance, so it’s essential to book in advance. Visit the Moulin Rouge and experience the atmosphere of one of the world’s most famous cabarets, which continues to enchant visitors with its spectacular shows and rich history.

26. Place des Vosges and Le Marais

Le Marais is a lively neighbourhood where history and modern life mix. You can explore the narrow streets, admire the architecture, visit boutiques, galleries and enjoy the cafes and restaurants.

The Renaissance Place des Vosges, perfectly symmetrical with its uniform red-brick houses, stone details and sloping blue slate roofs, was the prototype for residential squares of the time. It served as a model for other famous Parisian squares such as Place Vendôme and Place de la Concorde.

While you’re here, don’t miss the opulent Hôtel de Ville de Paris and the famous falafel at L’As du Fallafel.

27. Canal Saint-Martin

Just a few minutes from Le Marais is the Canal Saint-Martin, one of the most picturesque corners of Paris, which stretches 4.5 kilometres from the Arsenal harbour to the Bassin de la Villette.

The canal is lined with shady promenades, picturesque bridges and cafés where Parisians like to stop for a glass of wine or coffee.

28. Les Invalides

Les Invalides, a complex of buildings near the Eiffel Tower, was dedicated to disabled war veterans who were formerly often sentenced to begging.

At the end of the 17th century, Louis XIV built this hospital and retirement home where war veterans could enjoy care and shelter. Les Invalides still serves its function today.

Les Invalides is also the place where the rioters obtained the cannons and muskets that they would use later that day to attack the Bastille, thus sparking the Great French Revolution.

Things to do in Les Invalides

War Museums: As part of the Les Invalides tour, you can visit the war museums, which offer a deep insight into French war history. The most famous of these is the Musée de l’Armée, where you can learn more about French military history.

The tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte: The church of Les Invalides houses the impressive tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, one of the most important military leaders in history.

Les Invalides Paris

The entrance fee to Les Invalides, and the Musée de l’Armée, is €15. Free admission for children under 18 and people with disabilities.

Musée de l’Armée is open from April to October from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (10:00-18:00) and from November to March from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (10:00-17:00).

☞ More information: 3-day itinerary of what to see in Paris (including a map and practical information).

Hotels in Paris 😴

Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel

4* hotel overlooking the Eiffel Tower

citizenM hotel – great value for money

Modern accommodation with a view

29. La Défense

La Défense is the perfect contrast to historic Paris. It is a place where modern architecture, art and commerce meet, and where you will get a unique insight into the development and future of the city.

It is the largest modern business district in Europe, located west of the centre of Paris, behind the Arc de Triomphe. This futuristic place is full of glass skyscrapers, shopping malls and art installations.

The most striking building in La Défense is undoubtedly La Grande Arche, a monumental structure of steel and stone.

Tip: La Défense is also a great place to stay as the hotels here offer great value for money. Moreover, it is located at the terminus of metro line 1, which can be reached in a few minutes from the centre of Arc de Triomphe.

I have a good experience with the hotel CizitenM – modern, smaller rooms with a great view, excellent breakfast and very helpful staff.

30. Paris Catacombs

The catacombs of Paris form a contrast to romantic Paris. It is definitely not one of the typical monuments in Paris. You can think of them as a complex of tunnels under the streets of Paris, containing more than 6 million skeletons of Parisians from the 18th century.

The site was originally an ossuary, but after the Parisians noticed the popularity of the catacombs in Rome, they converted the ossuary into catacombs. The tour of the catacombs is about 2 km long.

The Paris Catacombs are not suitable for people with reduced mobility, as there are a lot of stairs.

Admission and opening hours of the Paris Catacombs

Full admission to the catacombs is €29, reduced admission is €23 for students and reduced admission is €10 for children 5-17 years old. Reservations are required – Tickets are only available one week in advance and tend to sell out early. It is open daily except Mondays from 9:45 AM to 8:30 PM (09:45-20:30).

31. Fondation Louis Vuitton (Fondation Louis Vuitton)

Fondation Louis Vuitton, located in the Bois de Boulogne Park, is a relatively new building built in 2014. This architectural gem, which from the outside resembles a huge ship with billowing sails, has quickly become one of the most popular places to visit in Paris.

The structure is made up of 3,600 glass panels and contains more steel than the Eiffel Tower itself. Three outdoor terraces run out from the structure, offering fantastic views of the surrounding park and the modern La Défense district.

Inside the Fondation Louis Vuitton you will find 11 galleries that host a permanent art collection 20. and the 21st century. These galleries are complemented by temporary exhibitions, cultural events and musical performances, making this foundation a dynamic centre of modern art and culture.

Admission and opening hours Fondation Louis Vuitton

Full admission is €16 and reduced admission is €10 under 26 and €5 under 18. It is open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM (11:00-20:00), Friday from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (11:00-21:00), and Saturday from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (10:00-20:00). Closed on Tuesdays.

The museum is a bit out of reach – the easiest way to get here is from Place Charles de Gaulle by the Arc de Triomphe. There is a minibus that stops every 20 minutes during the day and takes you to the museum in a few minutes. If you buy a ticket to the museum in advance, the bus is included.

32. Grand Mosque of Paris and Jardin des Plantes

Grand Mosque in Paris, opened in 1926, is one of the oldest and largest mosques in France. The mosque is famous for its magnificent minaret, peaceful courtyards and gardens full of exotic plants.

The entrance fee to the mosque is €3. It is open daily except Fridays from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (09:00-18:00).

Adjacent to the mosque is the Jardin des Plantes, a large park and botanical garden with thousands of species of plants, greenhouses with tropical and subtropical plants, a rose garden and an alpine garden. The garden also includes a natural history museum, which offers exhibitions on natural history and evolution.

33. Chateau Vincennes – best things to do in Paris

Head to Chateau Vincennes, located on the eastern outskirts of Paris. This medieval castle is one of the best preserved fortresses in Europe.

Explore the great tower (donjon), the chapel and the royal apartments. The castle has a rich history dating back to the 14th century, and offers a perfect view of medieval architecture and life.

After your tour of the chateau, take a stroll in the adjacent Bois de Vincennes, the largest public park in Paris. You can bring a picnic and enjoy lunch on the lawn or visit one of the local cafes.

The castle is adjoined by beautiful gardens with free-roaming peacocks (on the left side of the entrance to the castle). On the western edge of the park you can visit the zoo.

Tip: Want to make travelling to Paris easier? You can book your tickets here for the most popular sights and attractions in Paris in one place, including the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Versailles and a cruise on the Seine. Then just show your tickets on your mobile phone at the venue.

Practical information for visiting the Chateau Vincennes

Here you can find the latest information on opening times and admission fees for Château de Vincennes. You can see the surroundings of the castle for free, but you only have to pay to enter the interiors.

The most beautiful places not to miss in Paris

• Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro Square
• Louvre and Tuileries Gardens
• Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées
• Montmartre and Sacré-Coeur Basilica
• Versailles
• Latin Quarter and Luxembourg Gardens
• Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité

Where to stay in Paris

• Ibis Paris Tour Eiffel – popular hotel near the centre and the metro at a good price
• Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel – 4* central hotel with views of the Eiffel Tower
• citizenM hotel – modern accommodation with a view, great value for money
• HotelF1 Paris Porte de Châtillon – cheap but pleasant accommodation outside the centre

Hotels in Paris 😴

Ibis Paris Tour Eiffel

Popular hotel near the centre and metro

hotelF1 Paris Porte de Châtillon

Cheap but comfortable accommodation in Paris

Things to do in Paris – map

HOW TO USE THIS MAP: Above you will find a detailed map with tips on the most beautiful places to visit in Paris. Click at the top left of the map to see separate layers with highlighted locations. You can hide and show the different layers or click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I mention in the Paris guide. If you want to save the map, star it. For a larger version, click on the icon in the upper right corner.

How to save money in Paris

Planning to visit a lot of sights and attractions in Paris? Get yourself Paris Pass tourist card which gives you free entry to more than 60 places in Paris for a pre-selected number of days.

Or opt for the Paris Explorer Pass, where you choose the number of attractions you plan to visit at a discounted price (Disneyland, Louvre, Eiffel Tower, five-course gourmet lunch and more).

The third option is Paris Museum Pass which includes access to most of the main Parisian monuments for a pre-selected number of days.

On the first Sunday of the month, admission to national monuments is free. These include the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum and the Orsay Museum. But be prepared for long lines.

Tips on how to enjoy Paris

Keep an eye on things. Especially at the main tourist attractions.

Beware of scams. We’ve had several instances where someone has tried to extort money from us. In Paris, it is not customary for locals to stop you and want to talk to you, like in America or other countries. So once that happens, be cautious.

Visit the most famous sights in the morning – the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre or Versailles. Although many places now require advance booking, you will still be subject to security checks.

Don’t miss Paris at night – the illuminated pyramid at the Louvre, the glittering Eiffel Tower or the glowing Sacré-Coeur Basilica. It’s a beautiful spectacle.

Have a real French Crêpes. They have them on almost every corner and they are delicious.

Sit in the park and just relax. Like a local. There are plenty of chairs in the Luxembourg Gardens, the Palais Royal and the Tuileries Gardens for Parisians to sit, talk or read a book.

Drinking water can be taken from the drinking fountains or Fontaine Wallace. They are mostly green, cast iron and beautiful in their own right (see photo below).

Taste a baguette or croissant in a French bakery called Boulangerie. You’ll come across them on every corner in Paris. Or try the macaroons at the Ladurée patisserie on the Champs-Élysées.

Public toilets can be found throughout central Paris. They are small metal boxes. There are also several pay toilets.

Best booking resources for visiting Paris

Via Booking.com we search for all accommodation. It is the largest accommodation portal in the world and you will find everything from modern hotels, cosy guesthouses to seaside villas.

Get Your Guide is a huge booking system for buying tickets, guided tours and all sorts of activities. In one place you can read other travellers’ experiences and book tickets to the Vatican Museums, a cruise on the Danube or a desert safari in Dubai.

These were our picks for the most beautiful places to visit in Paris. Do you have a question? We’ll be happy to answer it in the comments below. Have a safe journey!

More information about Paris

More information about France

PARIS: See tips on things to do in Paris (including entrance fees, opening times and maps). Plan your itinerary for 3 days in Paris. Do you have more time? Here is a 5-day itinerary of where to go in Paris.

Louvre Museum is one of the best things to visit in Paris, even for those who don’t otherwise seek out art. In the following article you will find out everything you need to know before visiting Versailles.

Are you planning to visit Disneyland? Read our detailed guide to Disneyland.

Find out all about transport in Paris (airport, public transport, metro, bicycle) and more tips on prices, food and accommodation in the Paris guide. Read our tips on how to visit Paris on budget. The Paris Pass is a popular way to save money in Paris – find out more about the Paris Pass.

PROVENCE: Here is a detailed guide to Provence, one of the most beautiful regions in France.

FAQ: Things to do in Paris – Best places to visit