Paris, France, is one of the most charming cities in the world. From strolling along the cobblestone streets of Montmartre to marveling at the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower, every corner of this magical city has something unique to offer!
In this blog, you will discover the best things to do in Paris any time of year! The City of Lights has endless cute cafes, Instagrammable city streets, delicious French pastries, and iconic Eiffel Tower views. If you’re planning a bucket list trip to France, you need to add these activities to your Paris itinerary!
Keep reading to learn all the best things to do in Paris!
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13 Best Things to do in Paris, France
#1. See the Eiffel Tower
It’s no surprise that the Eiffel Tower is mine, and probably everyone’s, #1 on the list of things to do in Paris! There are endless places in Paris where you can see the Eiffel Tower, but nothing beats getting right up close. Here’s a list of all the best spots to see the Eiffel Tower!
Not only can you admire the Eiffel Tower from the ground, you can go all the way to the top! You can book tickets in person or online here. There are 3 levels you can go to – 1st Floor, 2nd Floor, and the Top. You can take the stairs to the 1st and 2nd level but you have to take the elevator to get all the way to the top. The elevator is also available to take to the 2nd level.
If you’re looking for a nice romantic dinner spot, there’s a Michelin Star restaurant, Jules Verne, at the top of the Eiffel Tower! While it will cost you a pretty penny, I’m sure it’s an incredible experience if you’re into fine dining and French food.
Pro Tip: Every night from dusk to 11:45 pm (1:00 am in the summer), the Eiffel Tower sparkles with thousands of lights for 5 minutes every hour, on the hour. It is truly one of the most magical things I’ve experienced! Photos and videos don’t do it justice. You MUST make sure you plan a time a night to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle!
#2. See the famous artwork at The Louvre
The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum and is home to many world-renowned art pieces, such as the Mona Lisa and Winged Victory of Samothrace. We would suggest planning on spending at least 3 to 4 hours inside the Louvre to see all the various types of artwork from different time periods!
FYI, if you want to see the Mona Lisa, be prepared for the crowds. The painting itself is actually quite small, and at times, you can be 5 to 10 people deep waiting in line to get up close to admire it.
Since this is such a popular tourist attraction, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets online in advance! General Admission tickets are €22. Before visiting, we always recommend you check their website for all the latest and most updated information.
The Louvre Opening Hours:
- Monday, Thursday, Saturday & Sunday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
- Wednesday & Friday: 9:00am – 9:00pm
- Tuesday: Closed
#3. Walk the footsteps of French royalty at the Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles (or Château de Versailles), located about an hour outside Paris, is a stunning symbol of French royal opulence and grandeur. Renowned for its lavish Hall of Mirrors, beautifully well-kept gardens, and rich history. Visiting offers a glimpse into the extravagance of Louis XIV’s reign and the artistry of 17th-century France!
While this is one of the best things to do in Paris, it’s technically outside of Paris, so we highly recommend spending a half day here! If you’re short on time, then absolutely no less than 2 hours here (not including transit time) for the Palace only and 3 to 4 hours minimum for the Palace and the Gardens.
Since we visited during the winter, the gardens were sadly not in their full bloom beauty and glory. But after seeing them mostly dead, we already want to plan a trip to visit during the spring or summer!
Like most tourist attractions in Paris, we recommend you purchase your timed entry tickets in advance. They offer a range of ticket options that include access to different sites on the Palace grounds. You can learn more about the different ticket options here.
To get to the Palace of Versailles from Paris, there is a great public train route that only costs 2.50€ per person one way. You can use the “public transportation” feature on Google Maps to find the exact route that makes the most sense from your starting destination. For us, the train ride took about an hour (we were coming from the Lourve area). Public train is by far the most affordable way to get to the Palace of Versailles.
If you don’t want to take public transportation, you can always book a day trip tour bus from Paris! Below are some of the top-rated tour options for the Palace of Versailles.
#4. Go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris. The historical significance behind this architectural beauty is that it honors those who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. You’ll find the names of all the generals who fought engraved on the sides and top of the arch.
Climbing to the 284 steps to the top of the Arc de Triomphe is one of the best things to do in Paris, and it gives you incredible views of the city! There is an elevator to the terrace, but it’s reserved only for those who need it (those with disabilities, pregnant women, etc).
Tickets to the Arc de Triomphe cost 16€ per person (for adults); those under 18 years of age are free. For more visiting information and opening hours, visit their website here.
Note: You can get to the entrance monument by going through an underground tunnel on the Avenue de la Grande Armee side of the circle. The tunnel access is at the Wagram exit of the Metro. Do NOT try to cross the busy road of the traffic circle!
#5. Have a picnic at the Jarden des Tuileries
The Jardin des Tuileries (Tuileries Garden) is a public garden located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde. On a nice day, the Garden will be filled with people! It’s a beautiful place to walk around, enjoy a picnic on the grass, or enjoy the views from one of the many park benches.
This may not have originally been on your list, but it’s so close to many of the other things to do in Paris; you’ll probably pass through it on your way to other sites!
#6. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is an iconic masterpiece of Gothic architecture located in the heart of Paris. It’s known for its intricate stone carvings, majestic towers, and breathtaking stained glass windows. Despite suffering damage from a fire in 2019, it remains a symbol of resilience and continues to captivate visitors with its rich history and spiritual significance.
After almost 5 years, the Notre Dame Cathedral finally re-opened on December 8, 2024, after massive restorations and repairs. Although renovations will continue through 2026, you can still go inside!
The Cathedral is free to visit. Since people have eagerly awaited its reopening, the lines to get in can be very long. You can reserve a free ticket in advance online using their app or website to reduce your wait time. Tickets are limited, and they recommend you check regularly to reserve your ticket since they don’t book far out.
Pro-Tip: The streets of the Ile de la Cité, the bridges over the Seine, the left bank quays, and the Ile Saint Louis offer picturesque views of the Notre Dame Cathedral.
#7. Visit the Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier is Paris’ iconic opera house. It’s a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture, renowned for its opulent design and lavish details, including its grand staircase and stunning chandeliers throughout. Known as the inspiration for The Phantom of the Opera, it continues to enchant visitors with its rich history and world-class performances.
If you don’t have time to visit the Palace of Versailles, this place 1000% needs to be on your itinerary! It’s one of the most beautiful buildings we’ve ever been in (and that’s including the month we spent exploring Italy and visiting countless Italian churches).
Tickets for a self-guided tour of Palais Garnier are €15 per adult. You can book a guided tour or add-on a audio tour to your visit for a more enhanced experience. It’s open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, but always check their website for the most up-to-date opening information. Their hours can change due to a performance schedule.
During peak season, we highly recommend booking your tickets in advance online to guarantee entry and reduce your wait time. The ticket office does not open until 11:00 am so if you plan to purchase your tickets onsite keep that in mind!
#8. Go shopping on the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is an avenue in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, France. If you start at one end, you’ll be at the Arc de Triumphe, and if you walk to the other end, you’ll be at the Louvre Museum. However, it will take you about 1 hour to walk it!
Not only is it an iconic street to walk down with many lovely views, but the section closer to the Arc de Triumphe is popular for shopping! From high-end luxury brands to more mid-range streetwear stores. You’ll notice quickly, there’s endless areas to go shopping in Paris no matter your price range!
And even at night, the Champs-Élysées is bustling with people! It’s known for its lively nightlife with endless options of restaurants, bars, and cafes with cocktails.
Note: On the first Sunday of each month, cars are banned from the Champs-Élysées, making it pedestrians only! If that day coincides with your trip, Sunday would be a great day to visit this area.
Watch our France travel vlog for more travel tips and locations outside Paris to add to your France bucket list!
#9. Go on a Seine River Cruise
The Seine runs through the heart of Paris, making it a great way to see many iconic Paris landmarks. You can walk along the river’s edge, picnic on one of the walls, or even take a cruise down the Seine River. We have done all 3 of those things, and our favorite was the river cruise!
We took a 1 hour river cruise through Bateaux Parisiens and loved it! It was extremely fair priced. It’s a large boat filled with people but worth it for the price. You book the day and type of tour you want but you can go at any time during the day. You can’t reserve a specific time in advance! The boat leaves every hour on the hour from 11:00am to 9:20pm. Although it varies slightly depending on the season so always double check upon booking). They require you to arrive 10 minutes before departure. But I’d recommend getting there at least 30 minutes before to guarantee you get a spot on your desired boat and be at the front of the line to choose a good seat!
Personally, we think the best time for a cruise down the Seine is at sunset. Then, after your tour, you can head to the Pont d’Iéna bridge to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle! It’s the perfect way to end a day in Paris.
#10. Wander the streets of Le Marais
Le Marais is a charming Parisian neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and vibrant blend of art, culture, and trendy boutiques. This is one of our favorite areas to go shopping in Paris! Between shopping and walking around, you can grab a bite to eat at one of their many adorable cafes on almost every corner.
#11. Visit the Musee d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay, set in a beautifully restored former railway station, is home to one of the world’s finest collections of 19th and early 20th-century art. Famous for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, it showcases works by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas in an architecturally stunning setting.
While the Louvre is most people’s first choice to visit, this museum is incredible in its own way. It’s a great museum to visit if you’ve already been to the Louvre or you want to see even more art while in Paris!
Tickets to the Musée d’Orsay are 14€ per adult onsite and 16€ per adult if you purchase online in advance. During peak season, we definitely recommend purchasing your ticket in advance to avoid long wait times! When we visited, it was January, so we decided to purchase tickets onsite. We waited around 30 minutes on a weekday morning.
#12. Enjoy the views of the city from the Basillque in Montmartre
Montmartre, a bohemian neighborhood perched on a hill in Paris, is famed for its artistic heritage, cobblestone streets, and breathtaking views of the city. Home to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the charming Place du Tertre, it offers a glimpse into the vibrant creativity that inspired legendary artists like Picasso and Van Gogh.
The first thing you should do is climb the steps to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica to enjoy panoramic views of Paris! It was a very gloomy winter day when we visited, but it was still beautiful. Then you can wander the city streets and go shopping!
#13. Shop local goods & produce on Rue Cler
Rue Cler is just a few blocks away from the Eiffel Tower. It’s one of our favorite market streets in all of Paris! It has some of the cutest cafes, bakeries, floral shops, and lots more. You’ll see plenty of Parisians shopping for their weekly groceries, in addition to the tourists!
Pro-Tip: go shopping here for all the best picnic items! Then, head to the Champs de Mars by the Eiffel Tower to enjoy your goodies on a blanket while watching the sunset!
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Looking to explore more of France than just Paris? Check out our blog, Visiting Mont St Michel – a hidden gem of France!
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