Things to do in Paris

🗼 Paris is a city where centuries of history meet modern life on every street corner. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to discover more, there are endless Things to do in Paris from world famous attractions and guided tours to unique local excursions and immersive cultural activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Below, you'll find a helpful breakdown of top Paris attractions, practical travel tips, and curated experiences to help you plan your visit. Book your tickets early, as the most popular tours fill up fast.

Top Attractions in Paris

Paris captivates visitors with its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and romantic boulevards. From the soaring Eiffel Tower to the artistic treasures of the Louvre, every corner tells a story of art, history, and culture that defines the City of Light.

Historical Landmarks

Discover Paris's most iconic monuments and architectural marvels

  • Eiffel Tower: The iron lattice tower stands 330 meters tall, offering panoramic views of Paris from its three observation levels.
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral: Gothic masterpiece featuring flying buttresses, rose windows, and centuries of French history.
  • Arc de Triomphe: Triumphal arch honoring French military victories, located at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle.

Cultural Sites

Immerse yourself in world-renowned art collections and cultural institutions

  • Louvre Museum: World's largest art museum housing the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and thousands of masterpieces.
  • Musée d'Orsay: Spectacular collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings in a beautiful former railway station.
  • Sainte-Chapelle: 13th-century Gothic chapel renowned for its stunning stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes.

Modern Highlights

Experience contemporary Paris through modern architecture and vibrant districts

  • Centre Pompidou: Bold modern art museum with an inside-out architectural design and Europe's largest contemporary art collection.
  • La Défense: Ultra-modern business district featuring skyscrapers, shopping centers, and the Grande Arche.
  • Fondation Louis Vuitton: Frank Gehry-designed contemporary art museum with glass sails and innovative exhibitions.

Local Culture & Experiences

Parisian culture blends sophistication with joie de vivre through café conversations, art appreciation, and culinary excellence. Experience the rhythm of daily life in local neighborhoods, markets, and time-honored traditions.

  • Seine River Cruises: Glide past illuminated monuments on evening boat tours while enjoying wine and French commentary about the city's history.
  • Montmartre Artists Quarter: Wander cobblestone streets where Picasso and Renoir worked, watch street artists create portraits at Place du Tertre.
  • Parisian Café Culture: Sit at sidewalk cafés for hours, people-watching while sipping espresso and enjoying croissants or croque-monsieurs.
  • Local Food Markets: Browse Marché des Enfants Rouges or Marché Saint-Germain for fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and regional specialties.

Shopping in Paris

Paris offers everything from luxury boutiques on Champs-Élysées to vintage finds in Marais. Discover haute couture, antiques, gourmet foods, and unique French crafts across diverse shopping districts.

  • Champs-Élysées – Famous avenue lined with flagship stores, luxury brands, cafés, and theaters stretching from Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde.
  • Le Marais – Historic district featuring vintage boutiques, designer shops, Jewish quarter delicatessens, and trendy concept stores.
  • Saint-Germain-des-Prés – Sophisticated Left Bank neighborhood known for high-end fashion, art galleries, bookshops, and literary cafés.
  • Galeries Lafayette – Iconic department store with stunning Art Nouveau dome, luxury brands, gourmet food hall, and rooftop views.
  • Rue de Rivoli – Long shopping street offering international chains, souvenir shops, and easy access to major attractions like the Louvre.

Best Parks & Green Spaces

Paris's green spaces provide peaceful retreats from urban energy. Royal gardens, neighborhood parks, and tree-lined promenades offer perfect spots for picnics, strolls, and outdoor relaxation.

  • Luxembourg Gardens – Formal French gardens with palace, pond for model boats, tennis courts, and chairs for relaxing among manicured lawns.
  • Tuileries Garden – Historic royal garden between Louvre and Place de la Concorde, featuring sculptures, fountains, and tree-lined pathways.
  • Bois de Boulogne – Large parkland on the western edge with lakes, cycling paths, rose gardens, and the charming Bagatelle Park.
  • Parc des Buttes-Chaumont – Hilly park in Belleville with artificial lake, waterfalls, suspension bridge, and panoramic city views from its temple.
  • Jardin des Plantes – Botanical garden complex including natural history museums, greenhouse, zoo, and France's oldest public garden.

Hidden Gems & Local Secrets

Beyond famous landmarks lie secret passages, quirky museums, and local favorites. Discover Paris's hidden courtyards, underground scenes, and neighborhood treasures known mainly to residents.

  • Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature – Unusual museum blending hunting artifacts with contemporary art in elegant Marais mansion rooms.
  • Passage des Panoramas – Historic covered passage from 1800 lined with stamp shops, bistros, and the world's oldest philatelic store.
  • Promenade Plantée – Elevated park built on former railway viaduct, offering a unique green walkway above the streets of eastern Paris.
  • Musée Gustave Moreau – Artist's former home and studio displaying symbolist paintings and decorative objects in intimate historic setting.
  • Square du Vert-Galant – Tiny triangular park at the tip of Île de la Cité, perfect for picnics with views of the Seine and Pont Neuf.

Practical Travel Tips for Paris

Navigate Paris like a local with insider knowledge about transportation, dining customs, and cultural etiquette. These practical tips will enhance your experience and help avoid common tourist mistakes.

Getting Around

Master Paris's efficient public transportation system

  • Buy a Navigo weekly pass for unlimited metro, bus, and RER travel if staying more than 4 days.
  • Download the Citymapper app for real-time transit directions and walking routes throughout the city.
  • Avoid rush hours (8-9am and 6-7pm) when metro cars are extremely crowded, especially on Line 1 and RER A.

Where to Stay

Choose the perfect neighborhood for your Paris experience

  • Stay in the 1st-4th arrondissements for walking distance to major attractions and central location.
  • Consider Marais (3rd-4th) for trendy restaurants, nightlife, and historic charm with character.
  • Book accommodations near metro stations for easy access to all parts of the city.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and social norms

  • Always greet shopkeepers with 'Bonjour' when entering and 'Au revoir' when leaving stores.
  • Dress elegantly for dinner, as Parisians take pride in their appearance and appreciate effort.
  • Learn basic French phrases like 'Excusez-moi' and 'S'il vous plaît' to show respect for the culture.

Featured Paris Excursions & Tours

Discover Paris through expert-guided experiences that reveal hidden stories and provide skip-the-line access to popular attractions. From food tours to art walks, guided excursions enrich your understanding.

  • Louvre Skip-the-Line Tour: Expert art historian guides highlight masterpieces including Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and lesser-known treasures in 2-3 hour focused visits.
  • Paris Food Walking Tour: Taste authentic French cuisine through local markets, bakeries, cheese shops, and wine bars while learning culinary traditions.
  • Versailles Day Trip: Full-day excursion to the opulent palace with gardens, Marie Antoinette's estate, and transportation from central Paris.
  • Seine Dinner Cruise: Evening boat tour with gourmet French meal while passing illuminated Notre-Dame, Eiffel Tower, and historic bridges.

Book popular tours like Eiffel Tower and Louvre in advance, especially during peak season (April-October) to guarantee availability.

Interactive Paris Map

Navigate Paris efficiently with our interactive map highlighting must-see attractions, recommended restaurants, convenient hotels, and transportation hubs throughout the city's 20 arrondissements.

  • 📍 Top attractions
  • 🍽️ Restaurants
  • 🏨 Hotels
  • 🚇 Transport hubs

Click on map markers to view detailed information, photos, and user reviews for each location.

Real Visitor Reviews

Read authentic experiences from fellow travelers who've explored Paris. Their insights and recommendations will help you plan your perfect visit to the City of Light.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Magical Week in Paris"
Paris exceeded every expectation! The Eiffel Tower at sunset was breathtaking, and the Louvre's art collection is overwhelming in the best way. Don't miss wandering through Montmartre's charming streets and enjoying coffee at sidewalk cafés. – Sarah M., United States

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Perfect Romantic Getaway"
My partner and I fell in love with Paris all over again. Seine river cruises at night, intimate dinners in the Latin Quarter, and strolling through Luxembourg Gardens made this trip unforgettable. The city truly is magical. – James L., United Kingdom

⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Art Lover's Paradise"
As an art enthusiast, Paris was a dream come true. Musée d'Orsay's Impressionist collection moved me to tears, and the smaller galleries in Marais offered wonderful discoveries. Allow extra time for each museum visit. – Maria S., Spain

FAQs: Paris Tours & Activities

Q: How many days should I plan for visiting Paris?

A: Plan at least 4-5 days to see major attractions without rushing. A week allows time for day trips to Versailles, deeper neighborhood exploration, and leisurely museum visits.

Q: What's the best time of year to visit Paris?

A: Late spring (April-June) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer is peak season with long days but higher prices and more tourists.

Q: Do I need to book attraction tickets in advance?

A: Yes, book Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and popular tours ahead of time. Many attractions offer timed entry tickets that help avoid long queues, especially during peak season.

Q: How easy is it to get around Paris without speaking French?

A: Paris is very tourist-friendly with English signage in metro stations and major attractions. Learning basic French phrases is appreciated, but many service workers speak some English.

Q: What's the best way to experience Parisian food culture?

A: Take a food tour, visit local markets like Marché Saint-Germain, dine at traditional bistros, and don't miss bakeries for fresh croissants and pastries. Make dinner reservations in advance.

Q: Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of?

A: Always greet with 'Bonjour' in shops, dress nicely for restaurants, don't eat while walking, and remember that many shops close on Sundays and for lunch breaks on weekdays.

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Popular Tours & Activities in Paris

Bateaux Mouches® Dinner Cruise on the Seine River in Paris

Our pier is located near the Alma Bridge, in the heart of Paris, just steps from the Golden Triangle. Board our elegant restaurant boats and discover Paris’s most iconic landmarks from the Seine. As the City of Light comes alive at dusk, enjoy a 3-course (Harmonie et Prestige menus) or a 4-course meal (Excellence menu). Depending on your selection, a glass or half a bottle of wine or champagne per person is included. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. Non-alcoholic drinks, tea, and coffee complete this memorable experience. Savor refined French cuisine while admiring the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Paris’s beautiful bridges. For even better views, head to the upper deck and enjoy a 360° panorama of the Seine. Throughout the cruise, two live musicians perform French and international classics, creating the perfect soundtrack for an unforgettable evening.

From USD 145.72 — ★ 4.430951 (5163 reviews)

Louvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Access

Take a small group or a private (depending on the option you choose) walking tour of the Louvre Museum in Paris and save time by booking ahead. This tour helps you explore the collection of paintings, sculpture, and architecture with an expert local guide. Numbers are limited to a maximum of 20 people on this small group walking tour, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your guide. Upgrade your ticket for a private tour exclusive to just your group. This tour was specifically designed to highlight the most famous works of the Louvre Museum. Entering the Louvre through the original Medieval structure from the 12th century, join your guide on a journey from one breathtaking gallery to the next as you travel through time visiting works from 450 BCE through to the 1800s.

From USD 82.54 — ★ 4.506141 (13352 reviews)

Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Optional Summit with Elevator

Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience at one of the world’s most iconic landmarks! Our exclusive Eiffel Tower tour invites you to climb the stairs to the 2nd floor (approximately 700 stairs) alongside a professional guide who will share captivating stories about the tower’s history and the breathtaking views of Paris. With a small group setting, you'll enjoy a more personal and engaging experience away from the crowds. You’ll also have the option to upgrade your ticket to include access to the summit via elevator for an even more spectacular view. Book now for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Paris! Depending on the tour option selected, guests may also receive tickets to enjoy a Seine River cruise at their own pace. Boats depart approximately every 30 minutes and operate from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. The ticket is open-dated and valid for one year, allowing you to use it at any time during your stay in Paris.

From USD 54.24 — ★ 4.61979 (3335 reviews)

Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour from Paris

Versailles becomes effortless when your tickets and route are handled for you. This guided tour pairs timed entry to the Palace of Versailles with an expert guide who brings the state apartments, the Royal Chapel, and the dazzling Hall of Mirrors to life. You step inside with timed entry and go straight into the former heart of the French court, learning the stories behind the Bourbon monarchy as you go. After the guided rooms, you receive an introduction to the Gardens of Versailles, then explore the sweeping parterres, fountains, and groves at your own pace, with time to reach the Trianon Estate. It is a relaxed, well-paced way to see the highlights without the stress of planning. Pick the version that fits you best: travel round-trip by train from Paris with a standard group, keep things personal in a small group, or meet directly at Versailles for a shorter on-site tour without transport.

From USD 75.47 — ★ 4.3973274 (4490 reviews)

Louvre Museum Premium Guided Tour 6 GUESTS MAX Entry Included

Enjoy the Louvre on and exclusive guided tour, making the experience more personal, interactive, and easy to follow. With reserved entry included, your visit starts smoothly as you meet your guide and head into the museum. This 2.5-hour tour is thoughtfully designed to cover the Louvre’s essential highlights—from world-famous masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace to other key works that give you a broader understanding of the collection. What guests appreciate most is the approach: knowledgeable guides who keep things engaging and enjoyable, focusing on stories, context, and clear explanations rather than overwhelming detail. The result is a well-paced visit that helps you experience the Louvre in a way that feels both meaningful and enjoyable—not rushed, and never like a lecture.

From USD 74.29 — ★ 4.953705 (7085 reviews)