What to Do in Paris
Paris offers endless iconic experiences, from world-famous monuments to charming neighborhoods. This guide highlights the essential attractions and activities that capture the city’s magic for first-time and returning visitors.
15 Top Things to Do in Paris
1. Visit the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower, built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, stands 330 meters tall as the ultimate symbol of Paris. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, it was initially mocked by artists and intellectuals as an eyesore but quickly became beloved. Over 7 million people ascend annually to its three levels for breathtaking views. The first floor features a glass floor, the second offers telescopes and Michelin-starred dining, while the summit offers Eiffel’s restored office. Evening illuminations and hourly sparkles create pure magic.
2. Explore the Louvre Museum
The Louvre, the world’s largest art museum, spans over 72,000 m² and holds 380,000 objects from prehistory to the 19th century. Originally a medieval fortress and later royal palace, it opened as a public museum in 1793 after the Revolution. Iconic works include Leonardo da Vinci’s enigmatic Mona Lisa, the ancient Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. The modern glass pyramid entrance by I.M. Pei contrasts beautifully with historic wings.
3. Stroll the Champs-Élysées
Known as “the most beautiful avenue in the world,” the 1.9 km Champs-Élysées links Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe in grand style. Extended in the 17th century and widened under Napoleon III, it became the elegant promenade lined with chestnut trees, luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Cartier), cafés, and theaters. Annual events include Bastille Day military parade and Christmas illuminations. The avenue ends triumphantly at the Arc de Triomphe with its panoramic rooftop views.
4. Admire Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame de Paris, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, was constructed between 1163 and 1345 on Île de la Cité. Famous for flying buttresses, gargoyles, and magnificent rose windows, it has hosted coronations, royal weddings, and Napoleon’s emperor crowning. Victor Hugo’s 1831 novel boosted 19th-century preservation. The 2019 fire destroyed the spire, but meticulous restoration revived its splendor, including cleaned interiors and rebuilt oak frame.
5. Wander Montmartre
Montmartre’s hilltop village preserves the bohemian spirit that drew Picasso, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Modigliani in the Belle Époque. Dominated by gleaming Sacré-Cœur Basilica, its winding cobblestone streets hide windmills, vineyards, artists at Place du Tertre, and cabarets like Moulin Rouge. The area’s artistic heritage, charming cafés, and panoramic views create an irresistible romantic atmosphere distinct from central Paris.
6. Visit Musée d’Orsay
Housed in the magnificent Beaux-Arts former Gare d’Orsay train station built for the 1900 World’s Fair, the Musée d’Orsay boasts the world’s finest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art from 1848–1914. Masterpieces include Monet’s water lilies and Rouen Cathedral series, Van Gogh’s self-portraits and Starry Night Over the Rhône, Renoir’s balmy scenes, and Degas’ dancers. The vast nave with glass roof and giant clock provide stunning architectural backdrop.
7. Discover the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter, centered around the Sorbonne University in the 5th arrondissement, has been Paris’s intellectual heart since medieval times when Latin was the academic language. Narrow medieval streets, bookshops, lively cafés, and historic sites like the Panthéon (mausoleum of Voltaire, Rousseau, Curie) and Luxembourg Gardens create vibrant atmosphere. Rue Mouffetard market street offers authentic food stalls and brasseries.
8. Walk or Cruise the Seine
The Seine River defines Paris, its UNESCO-listed banks lined with iconic landmarks. Strolling the quays or bridges like Pont Neuf (oldest) and Pont Alexandre III (most ornate) offers classic views. Evening cruises with Bateaux Parisiens or Vedettes du Pont-Neuf glide past illuminated Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay. Dinner cruises add gourmet French cuisine and live music for romantic experience.
9. Day Trip to Versailles
Just 20 km from Paris, Versailles Palace epitomizes royal extravagance under Louis XIV, who transformed a hunting lodge into France’s political center from 1682. The Hall of Mirrors, royal apartments, and 800-hectare gardens by André Le Nôtre dazzle with fountains, parterres, and Grand Canal. Trianon palaces and Marie-Antoinette’s hamlet offered private escape. A UNESCO site, it hosted pivotal events until the 1789 Revolution.
10. Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show
The Moulin Rouge, opened in 1889 at Montmartre’s foot, invented the modern can-can and remains Paris’s most famous cabaret. Its red windmill facade hosts the dazzling “Féerie” revue with 60 Doriss Girls in extravagant costumes, French can-can, acrobats, and international acts. Dinner options feature gourmet French cuisine. The venue launched stars like Mistinguett and Edith Piaf and inspired Toulouse-Lautrec’s iconic posters.
Disclaimer: Opening hours, ticket prices, and access may vary. Always check official websites for the latest information before your visit.