Top 15 Things To See In Paris: The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide

Paris is a city that never ceases to amaze with its iconic landmarks, rich history, and culture that speaks to the soul. This guide offers the top 15 things to see in Paris, showcasing the must-visit attractions that define the City of Light. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or casual traveler, Paris promises an unforgettable experience. Below, we’ll dive into each landmark, providing essential details, history, highlights, and ticket information to make your trip planning seamless.

1. The Eiffel Tower: Icon of Paris

The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable structures in the world and a top attraction among things to see in Paris. Built in 1889 as the centerpiece of the World’s Fair, the tower stands 324 meters tall, offering panoramic views of Paris from its observation decks.

Highlights of a visit include the shimmering lights that illuminate the tower every evening, the glass floor on the first level, and the incredible dining experience at the Jules Verne restaurant.

History: Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the tower was originally meant to be a temporary installation. Its stunning design and engineering led to its preservation, and it became a symbol of French ingenuity.

Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.

Tickets: You can purchase tickets at the official Eiffel Tower website or on-site. For faster entry, it’s recommended to book tickets online in advance.

2. Louvre Museum: Masterpieces Await

The Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s greatest art collections, is an essential part of any list of things to see in Paris. Famous for housing the Mona Lisa, the museum spans over 60,000 square meters of gallery space, featuring art from ancient civilizations to the 19th century.

Highlights include the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the opulent Napoléon III apartments.

History: Originally a medieval fortress, the Louvre was transformed into a royal palace before becoming a public museum in 1793, following the French Revolution.

Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased on the official Louvre website or on-site. It’s advisable to book online to avoid long lines.

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral: Gothic Masterpiece

No visit to Paris is complete without exploring Notre-Dame Cathedral, a marvel of Gothic architecture. This historic cathedral, begun in 1163 and completed in the 14th century, is one of the top things to see in Paris.

Highlights include the iconic twin towers, the stunning stained glass rose windows, and the crypt beneath the cathedral.

History: Notre-Dame has witnessed centuries of French history, including coronations, royal weddings, and Napoleon’s crowning as emperor. Though damaged by fire in 2019, restoration work continues.

Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France.

Tickets: Entrance to the cathedral is free, but tickets are required to climb the towers. Tickets can be purchased on the official Notre-Dame website.

4. Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Panoramic Views from Montmartre

Situated at the highest point in Paris, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers breathtaking views of the city and is a must-see among things to see in Paris. This Romanesque-Byzantine basilica was completed in 1914 and features striking white stone.

Highlights include the stunning mosaics inside the basilica and the incredible view from the dome, which can be accessed by climbing 300 steps.

History: Sacré-Cœur was built as a symbol of hope and reconciliation following the Franco-Prussian War. Its brilliant white façade is made from Château-Landon stones that self-clean in rain.

Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France.

Tickets: Entry to the basilica is free, but tickets are required to access the dome and the crypt. Tickets can be purchased at the basilica.

5. Arc de Triomphe: Monument of Victory

The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées and is one of the most famous things to see in Paris. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, this grand monument commemorates French military victories.

Highlights include the Eternal Flame, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and panoramic views from the top.

History: The Arc de Triomphe was completed in 1836, long after Napoleon’s reign, but it remains a symbol of French patriotism and military glory.

Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

Tickets: Tickets to visit the top of the Arc can be purchased on-site or online through the official website. Booking in advance is recommended.

6. Musée d’Orsay: Art in a Train Station

The Musée d’Orsay is a must-see for art lovers, particularly those interested in Impressionist masterpieces. Housed in a former Beaux-Arts train station, this museum is among the top things to see in Paris.

Highlights include works by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh, as well as the museum’s breathtaking architecture.

History: The Gare d’Orsay was built for the 1900 World’s Fair and later converted into a museum in 1986. Today, it houses the largest collection of Impressionist art in the world.

Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France.

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the museum or online through the official website. It’s advisable to book online during peak tourist seasons.

7. Sainte-Chapelle: A Jewel of Gothic Architecture

Sainte-Chapelle, located within the Palais de la Cité, is renowned for its stunning stained glass windows, which are among the most impressive things to see in Paris. This Gothic masterpiece was completed in 1248 to house relics of the Passion of Christ.

Highlights include the 15 stained glass windows, each depicting a biblical story, and the intricate sculptures found throughout the chapel.

History: Built by King Louis IX, Sainte-Chapelle was a royal chapel designed to showcase France’s divine right to rule through its collection of holy relics.

Address: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France.

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online at the official Sainte-Chapelle website or at the entrance. Booking online is recommended for faster entry.

8. The Panthéon: Resting Place of Great Minds

The Panthéon in the Latin Quarter is both an architectural marvel and the final resting place of France’s greatest minds, making it one of the most important things to see in Paris. Its impressive neoclassical dome dominates the skyline.

Highlights include Foucault’s Pendulum, the crypt where notable figures like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie are buried, and the panoramic views from the dome.

History: Originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the Panthéon was transformed into a mausoleum following the French Revolution.

Address: Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France.

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased on-site or online via the official Panthéon website. Booking ahead is recommended to avoid long queues.

9. The Palais Garnier: Parisian Opera House

The Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera, is a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture and one of the finest things to see in Paris. Built between 1861 and 1875, the building’s opulent design includes grand staircases, lavish chandeliers, and a ceiling painted by Marc Chagall.

Highlights include the Grand Foyer, the marble Grand Staircase, and the underground lake that inspired the Phantom of the Opera.

History: Commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III, the Palais Garnier has hosted some of the most significant performances in French history, making it a cultural icon.

Address: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris, France.

Tickets: Tickets for performances and guided tours can be purchased on the official Palais Garnier website.

10. Luxembourg Gardens: A Parisian Oasis

The Luxembourg Gardens are an oasis of green in the heart of Paris, offering locals and tourists alike a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. Spanning over 23 hectares, they are among the top things to see in Paris for relaxation and leisure.

Highlights include the Medici Fountain, the Luxembourg Palace, and a model sailboat pond. The gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

History: Created in 1612 by Marie de’ Medici, the gardens were inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence and have been a favorite of Parisians ever since.

Address: Rue de Médicis – Rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris, France.

Tickets: Entry to the gardens is free. There are occasional ticketed exhibitions at the Luxembourg Museum.

11. The Seine River Cruise: See Paris from the Water

One of the most iconic ways to experience Paris is by taking a Seine River Cruise. Offering unparalleled views of landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre, it’s one of the most relaxing things to see in Paris.

Highlights include sunset cruises and dining experiences on the water, as well as hop-on-hop-off options that allow you to explore the city’s attractions.

History: The Seine has been the lifeblood of Paris for centuries, facilitating trade and transportation. Today, it offers tourists a chance to see the city from a unique perspective.

Address: Various departure points along the Seine, including near the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame.

Tickets: Tickets for cruises can be purchased online or at various ticket booths along the riverbanks.

12. The Champs-Élysées: Paris’ Grand Avenue

The Champs-Élysées is often called the most beautiful avenue in the world and is certainly one of the most famous things to see in Paris. This 1.9-kilometer stretch runs from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde and is lined with theaters, cafés, luxury shops, and historic landmarks.

Highlights include the annual Bastille Day parade, Christmas lights, and iconic flagship stores.

History: Originally laid out in the 17th century, the Champs-Élysées became a symbol of Parisian grandeur and has hosted many historic events, from military parades to protests.

Address: Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France.

Tickets: No tickets required for strolling the avenue, though tickets may be needed for certain attractions like theaters and exhibitions.

13. Centre Pompidou: Modern Art and Culture

The Centre Pompidou is a top destination for contemporary art lovers, featuring one of the largest collections of modern art in Europe. Its unique architecture, with exposed pipes and a futuristic design, makes it one of the most intriguing things to see in Paris.

Highlights include works by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Duchamp, as well as the rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Paris.

History: Opened in 1977, the Centre Pompidou was designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. It has since become a hub for modern art, cinema, and performance.

Address: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris, France.

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased at the Centre Pompidou or online. Online bookings are recommended to avoid queues.

14. Montmartre: The Artist’s Quarter

Montmartre, a historic district known for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic heritage, is one of the most charming things to see in Paris. Perched on a hill, this area was once home to artists like Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec.

Highlights include the Place du Tertre, where artists still sell their work, and the many cafés and cabarets that give Montmartre its unique vibe.

History: Montmartre’s history as an artistic hub dates back to the 19th century when it attracted writers, musicians, and painters, many of whom became famous.

Address: Montmartre Hill, 75018 Paris, France.

Tickets: No tickets required to explore Montmartre, though tickets are needed for entry into attractions like the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Musée de Montmartre.

15. Versailles Palace: A Royal Extravaganza

Though located just outside Paris, the Palace of Versailles is one of the most opulent things to see near Paris. This former royal residence is famous for its Hall of Mirrors, vast gardens, and extravagant architecture.

Highlights include the King’s Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and the meticulously landscaped gardens that span over 800 hectares.

History: Versailles was the seat of French political power from 1682 until the French Revolution. It remains a symbol of the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime.

Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France.

Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online via the official Versailles website. It’s highly recommended to book in advance to avoid long lines.

With these 15 iconic sites, your trip to Paris will be filled with history, art, and beauty at every turn. These top things to see in Paris are just the beginning of what this enchanting city has to offer.