The capital of France seems to have been designed specifically for the enjoyment of its visitors. Its streets, squares, buildings, gardens, and monuments beckon tourists to return, and indeed, many do.
Some of the most memorable things to do in Paris include visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame Cathedral. During the evening, experiencing one of the legendary Moulin Rouge cabaret shows, strolling through some of the most picturesque neighborhoods, like Montmartre, or climbing the Montparnasse Tower is a must.
It is always a good time to visit Paris. Depending on where you fly from, you can either make the most of the low-cost airlines flying into the city from other European cities or take one of its direct flights from further away destinations. If you have children, why not surprise them with a trip to Disneyland? Iconic Architecture The cloud-piercing, wrought-iron Eiffel Tower, broad Arc de Triomphe guarding the glamorous avenue des Champs-Élysées, flying buttressed Notre Dame cathedral, lamplit bridges spanning the Seine and art nouveau cafes' wicker-chair-lined terraces are enduring Parisian emblems. Despite initial appearances, however, Paris’ cityscape isn’t static: there are some stunning modern and contemporary icons, too, from the inside-out, industrial-style Centre Pompidou to the mur végétal (vertical garden) gracing the Musée du Quai Branly, the glass sails of the Fondation Louis Vuitton contemporary-art center, and the gleaming steel egg-shaped concert venue La Seine Musicale. Glorious Food France’s reputation for its cuisine (the French word for ‘kitchen’) precedes it, and whether you seek a cozy neighborhood bistro or a triple-Michelin-starred temple to gastronomy, you'll find that every establishment prides itself on exquisite preparation and presentation of quality produce, invariably served with wine. Enticing patisseries, boulangeries (bakeries), fromageries (cheese shops), and crowded, colorful street markets are perfect for putting together a picnic to take to the city’s beautiful parks and gardens. A host of culinary courses – held anywhere from home kitchens to the world’s most prestigious cookery schools – offers instruction for all schedules, abilities, and budgets. Stylish Shopping The word 'Parisian' is synonymous with style, and fashion shopping is the city’s forte. Paris remains at the forefront of international trends, and browsing emerging and established designer boutiques and flagship haute couture houses is a quintessential part of any visit. You’ll also find the hip concept and homewares shops, and resplendent art nouveau department stores, along with a trove of vintage shops and flea markets, atmospheric bookshops and dark-green bouquiniste stalls stocking secondhand titles along the riverbanks, adorable children’s wear and toy shops, art and antique dealers, venerable establishments selling professional cookware, and, of course, gourmet food and wine shops galore. Artistic Treasures With an illustrious artistic pedigree – Renoir, Rodin, Picasso, Monet, Manet, Dalí, and Van Gogh are but a few of the masters who have lived and worked here over the years – Paris is one of the world's great art repositories, harboring treasures from antiquity onwards. In addition to big hitters like the incomparable Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay’s exceptional impressionist collection, and the Centre Pompidou’s cache of modern and contemporary art, scores of smaller museums showcase every imaginable genre, a diverse range of venues mount major exhibitions through to offbeat installations, and there's also the city's vibrant street art. Attractions 1. Eiffel Tower
No one could imagine Paris today without its signature spire. But Gustave Eiffel only constructed this 324m-tall tower as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World's Fair. Luckily, the art nouveau tower’s popularity assured its survival. Prebook online to avoid extensive ticket queues. Lifts ascend to the tower’s three floors; change on the 2nd floor for the final ascent to the top. Energetic visitors can climb as far as the 2nd floor via the south pillar’s 720 stairs (no prebooking).
Refreshment options in the tower include two snack bars, the 1st-floor 58 Tour Eiffel, the gastronomic 2nd-floor Le Jules Verne, as well as a macaron bar and, at the top, a Champagne bar. Check the last entry time for the floor you wish to ascend to – it can be more than 90 minutes before the actual closing time in some cases. A 2.5m-high bulletproof glass wall surrounds the tower (the base is still free to visit after passing through the security checks). It's part of a €300-million modernization project to reduce queues, protect visitors waiting for the lifts from rain and snow, and improve facilities in general, due to wrap up in 2031. The two entrances to the glass enclosure are on av Gustave Eiffel; the two exits are on Quai Branly. 2. Arc de Triomphe
If anything rivals the Eiffel Tower as the symbol of Paris, it’s this magnificent 1836 monument to Napoléon’s victory at Austerlitz (1805), which he commissioned the following year. The intricately sculpted triumphal arch stands sentinel in the centre of the Étoile (star) roundabout. From the viewing platform on top of the arch (50m up via 284 steps and well worth the climb) you can see a dozen avenues.
Av de la Grande Armée heads northwest to the skyscraper district of La Défense, where the Grande Arche marks the western end of the axe Historique. The most famous of the four high-relief panels at the base is to the right, facing the arch from the av des Champs-Élysées side. It’s entitled Départ des Volontaires de 1792 (Departure of the Volunteers of 1792) and is also known as La Marseillaise (France’s national anthem). Higher up, a frieze running around the whole monument depicts hundreds of figures, each one 2m high. Beneath the arch at ground level lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Unknown Soldier was laid to rest in 1921, in honor of the 1.3 million French soldiers who lost their lives in WWI. An eternal flame is rekindled daily at 6.30 pm. To access the arch, don’t cross the traffic-choked roundabout above ground. Stairs lead from the northern side of the Champs-Élysées to pedestrian tunnels (not linked to the metro) that bring you out safely beneath the arch. Tickets to the viewing platform are sold in the tunnel. 3. Musée du Louvre
It isn’t until you’re standing in the vast courtyard of the Louvre, with sunlight shimmering through the glass pyramid and crowds milling about beneath the museum’s ornate façade, that you can truly say you’ve been to Paris. Holding tens of thousands of works of art – from Mesopotamian, Egyptian and Greek antiquities to masterpieces by artists such as da Vinci (including his incomparable Mona Lisa), Michelangelo, and Rembrandt – it’s no surprise that this is one of the world’s most visited museums.
The Sully Wing is at the eastern end of the complex; the Denon Wing stretches 800m along the Seine to the south, and the northern Richelieu Wing parallels rue de Rivoli. Long before its modern incarnation, the vast Palais du Louvre originally served as a fortress constructed by Philippe-Auguste in the 12th century (medieval remnants are still visible on the lower ground floor, Sully); it was rebuilt in the mid-16th century as a royal residence in the Renaissance style. The Revolutionary Convention turned it into a national museum in 1793. The paintings, sculptures, and artifacts on display in the Louvre have been amassed by subsequent French governments. Among them are works of art and artisanship from all over Europe and priceless collections of antiquities. The Louvre’s raison d’être is essentially to present Western art (primarily French and Italian, but also Dutch and Spanish) from the Middle Ages to about 1848 – at which point the Musée d’Orsay takes over – as well as works from ancient civilizations that formed the West's cultural foundations. When the museum opened in the late 18th century it contained 2500 paintings and objets d’art; the ‘Grand Louvre’ project inaugurated by the late president François Mitterrand in 1989 doubled the museum’s exhibition space, and both new and renovated galleries have opened in recent years devoted to objets d’art such as the crown jewels of Louis XV (Room 66, 1st floor, Apollo Gallery, Denon). The Islamic art galleries (lower ground floor, Denon) are in the restored Cour Visconti. The richness and sheer size of the place can be overwhelming. However, there’s an array of innovative, entertaining self-guided thematic trails (1½ hours; download trail brochures in advance from the website) ranging from a Louvre masterpieces trail to the art of eating, plus several for kids (hunt lions, galloping horses). Even better are the Louvre’s self-paced multimedia guides (€5). More formal, English-language guided tours depart from the Hall Napoléon, which has free English-language maps. For many, the star attraction is Leonardo da Vinci’s La Joconde, better known as Mona Lisa (Room 711, 1st floor, Denon). This entire section of the 1st floor of the Denon Wing, in fact, is hung with masterpieces – Rooms 700 to 702 have enormous French paintings including the Consecration of the Emperor Napoléon I (David), The Raft of the Medusa (Géricault), and Grande Odalisque (Ingres), while Rooms 710, 711, 712 and 716 contain transcendent pieces by Raphael, Titian, and Botticini. Room 706 has Botticelli's graceful frescoes. On the ground floor of the Denon Wing, take time for Michelangelo’s The Dying Slave and Canova's Psyche and Cupid (Room 403). Others, meanwhile, will prefer the treasures from antiquity: the Mesopotamia (ground floor, Richelieu) and Egypt (ground and 1st floors, Sully) collections are both superb. Highlights include the Code of Hammurabi (Room 227, ground floor, Richelieu) and The Seated Scribe (Room 635, 1st floor, Sully). The mosaics and figurines from the Byzantine Empire (lower ground floor, Denon), which merge into the state-of-the-art Islamic collection in the Cour Visconti, are also notable. Topping the list of ancient masterpieces are the armless Greek duo, the Venus de Milo (Room 346, ground floor, Sully), and the Winged Victory of Samothrace (Room 703, 1st floor, Denon). Also of note are the gilded-to-the-max Napoléon III Apartments (1st floor, Richelieu), Dutch masters Vermeer (Room 837, 2nd floor, Richelieu) and Rembrandt (Room 845, 2nd floor, Richelieu), and the 18th- and 19th-century French painting collection (2nd floor, Sully), which features iconic works like Ingres’ The Turkish Bath (Room 940). The main entrance is through the 21m-high Grande Pyramide, a glass pyramid designed by the Chinese-American architect IM Pei (1917–2019). The only way to guarantee entry is by booking online (€2 surcharge) or making a time-slot reservation through the Paris Museum Pass. You can avoid the longest queues (for security) outside the pyramid by entering the Louvre complex via the underground shopping center Carrousel du Louvre, or the Porte des Lions entrance. If you don't have a pre-bought ticket, you'll need to queue up again to buy your ticket once inside (not recommended at peak times, when capacity can mean anyone without a prior reservation won't get in). 4. Musée Rodin
Sculptor, painter, sketcher, engraver, and collector Auguste Rodin donated his entire collection to the French state in 1908 on the proviso that it dedicates his former workshop and showroom, the beautiful 1730 Hôtel Biron, to displaying his works. They’re now installed not only in the mansion itself but also in its rose-filled garden – one of the most peaceful places in central Paris and a wonderful spot to contemplate his famous work The Thinker. Prepurchase tickets online to avoid queuing.
Other sculptural highlights are The Gates of Hell, the 180 figures of which comprise an intricate scene from Dante’s Inferno; Rodin’s marble monument to love, The Kiss; and the world's largest collection of works by Rodin’s protégé and muse, Camille Claudel. Magnificent renovations to the museum between 2012 and 2015 – the first since Rodin worked here until his death in 1917 – included the creation of a new paint color, Biron Grey, by British company Farrow & Ball, which now provides a backdrop to the sculptures. On the 1st floor, in room 12, admire paintings by Van Gogh and Monet that belonged to Rodin. The ground-floor 'Rodin at the Hôtel Biron' room, its wood paneling painted a soft sage green, incorporates an eclectic collection of sculptures and curiosities acquired by Rodin and placed in the room in which he worked in 1908. A combined ticket with the Musée d'Orsay costs €21; tickets are valid for a single visit to each museum within three months. An audioguide costs €6. End your visit with a relaxed drink alfresco in the museum's garden cafe (closes at 5 pm). 5. Restaurant Guy Savoy
If you're considering visiting a three-Michelin-star temple to gastronomy, this should certainly be on your list. The world-famous chef needs no introduction (he trained Gordon Ramsay, among others); his flagship, entered via a red-carpeted staircase, is ensconced in the neoclassical Monnaie de Paris. Monumental cuisine to match includes Savoy icons such as artichoke and black-truffle soup with layered brioche. 6. Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris
While its interior is closed off to visitors following the devastating fire of April 2019, this masterpiece of French Gothic architecture remains the city’s geographic and spiritual heart. Its grand exterior, with its two enduring towers and flying buttresses, is rightly still an alluring attraction to countless visitors. 7. Musée d’Orsay
The home of France’s national collection from the impressionist, postimpressionist, and art nouveau movements spanning from 1848 to 1914 is the glorious former Gare d’Orsay train station – itself an art nouveau showpiece – where a roll-call of masters and their world-famous works are on display. Top of every visitor’s must-see list is the painting collection, centered on the world’s largest collection of impressionist and postimpressionist art. Allow ample time to swoon over masterpieces by Manet, Monet, Cézanne, Renoir, Degas, Pissarro and Van Gogh.
There are also some magnificent decorative arts, graphic arts, and sculptures. Save time by prepurchasing tickets online and head to entrance C. Combined tickets with the Musée de l’Orangerie (€18) and with the Musée Rodin (€21) are valid for a single visit to the museums within three months. An audioguide costs €5. Concerts, films, performances and cafe readings take place regularly; check the website for schedules. 8. Jardin du Luxembourg
This inner-city oasis of formal terraces, chestnut groves, and lush lawns has a special place in Parisians' hearts. Napoléon dedicated the 23 gracefully laid-out hectares of the Luxembourg Gardens to the children of Paris, and many residents spent their childhood prodding 1920s wooden sailboats with long sticks on the octagonal Grand Bassin pond, watching puppets perform puppet shows at the Théâtre du Luxembourg and riding the carrousel (merry-go-round) or ponies.
All those activities are still here today, as are modern playgrounds and sporting and games venues. Dozens of apple varieties grow in the orchards in the gardens’ south, while bees have produced honey in the nearby Rucher du Luxembourg since the 19th century; the two-day Fête du Miel (Honey Festival) takes place in late September. The gardens are a backdrop to the Palais du Luxembourg, built in the 1620s for Marie de Médici, Henri IV’s consort, to assuage her longing for the Pitti Palace in Florence, where she had spent her childhood. Since 1958 the palace has housed the Sénat, the Upper House of French Parliament, which is occasionally visitable by guided tour. East of the palace is the Italianate, 1630-built Fontaine de Médicis, an ornate fish pond. Prestigious temporary art exhibitions take place in the Musée du Luxembourg. Around the back of the museum, lemon and orange trees, palms, grenadiers, and oleanders shelter from the cold in the palace’s orangery. Nearby the heavily guarded Hôtel du Petit Luxembourg was the modest 16th-century pad where Marie de Médici lived while the Palais du Luxembourg was being built. The president of the Senate has called it home since 1825. If you’re planning on picnicking, forget bringing a blanket – the elegantly manicured lawns are off limits apart from a small wedge on the southern boundary. Instead, do as Parisians do, and corral one of the iconic 1923-designed green metal chairs and find your own favorite part of the park. Opening hours vary greatly throughout the year; seasonal entry times are posted at entrance gates. 9. Batobus
Batobus runs glassed-in trimarans that dock every 20 to 25 minutes at nine small piers along the Seine: Eiffel Tower, Invalides, Musée d’Orsay, St-Germain des Prés, Notre Dame, Jardin des Plantes, Hôtel de Ville, Musée du Louvre and place de la Concorde.
Buy tickets online, at ferry stops, or at tourist offices. Two-day passes must be used on consecutive days. You can also buy a Pass+ that includes L’Open Tour buses, to be used on consecutive days. A two-day pass per adult/child costs €47/21; a three day-pass is €51/21. 10. Basilique du Sacré-Cœur
Begun in 1875 in the wake of the Franco-Prussian War and the chaos of the Paris Commune, Sacré-Cœur is a symbol of the former struggle between the conservative Catholic old guard and the secular, republican radicals. It was finally consecrated in 1919, standing in contrast to the bohemian lifestyle that surrounded it. The view over Paris from its parvis is breathtaking. Avoid walking up the steep hill by using a regular metro ticket aboard the funicular to the upper station.
Some 300 spiraling steps lead you to the basilica’s dome, which affords one of Paris’ most spectacular panoramas – it's said you can see up to 30km on a clear day. Weighing in at 19 tonnes, the bell called La Savoyarde in the tower above is the largest in France. The chapel-lined crypt is closed indefinitely to the public. On Sundays, you can catch the organ being played during Mass and Vespers. Visiting Sacré-Cœur is a veritable experience, from the musicians performing on the steps to the group's picnickers on the hillside park. Watch out for touts and pickpockets, however, who often work for the crowds.
Shopping The Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous shopping streets not only in Paris but in the world. Its two-kilometer length stretches from the place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe and is a must-visit. The street is lined with impressive luxury boutiques from Louis Vuitton to Cartier, as well as huge flagship stores for brands such as the Banana Republic and Sephora. All these stores promise unique shopping experiences; the Champs-Élysées is a perfect place to invest in luxury French brands and pick up souvenirs of your time in the city.
Rue Saint-Honoré
Like other streets on our list, rue Saint-Honoré is home to a chic concentration of boutiques and is the heart of Parisian fashion and design. It offers an eclectic mix of classic designers such as Hermès and concept stores such as Colette. The latter, recognized as the pioneer of Parisian concept stores, is much more than a fashion boutique and stocks the work of up-and-coming designers across fashion, beauty, music, books, and art.
Avenue Montaigne
Avenue Montaigne is found in the heart of the opulent district known as the Golden Triangle and is dedicated to luxury labels. Designer boutiques from Chanel to Prada and Valentino have helped the avenue contribute to Paris’s title as the fashion capital of the world. Whether you are looking to buy some luxury gifts or simply wish to marvel at the tree-lined thoroughfare, avenue Montaigne reveals some of the best shopping opportunities in Paris.
Boulevard Haussmann
The Haussmann-Saint-Lazare-Opéra district is home to the best and biggest department stores in the capital. Galeries Lafayette, founded in 1912, is one of the world’s most celebrated department stores, boasting an impressive inventory of clothing, accessories, and premium beauty products – not to mention one of the most famous store ceilings in the world. The Printemps department store, just a few steps away, is the go-to destination for luxury boutiques under one roof, and is full of upscale fashion brands from Christian Louboutin to Louis Vuitton. Rue de Rivoli
For an all-around shopping experience, rue de Rivoli is the place to go. A huge host of international brands such as Zara, H&M, and Gap can be found here, along with great souvenir shops. The Carrousel du Louvre, an impressive underground shopping center, is a great place to visit after discovering the Mona Lisa and other cultural highlights at the Louvre museum. Since Paris’s shopping laws were relaxed at the start of the year and the Carrousel du Louvre is one of many stores that now remain open until late on Sunday. Be sure to make a bee-line for Apple, Bose, and Swatch.
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