20 Best Things to Do in Paris

Paris, the capital of France, has maintained its status as a significant metropolis for almost two millennia. Also known as the "City Of Lights" and the "City Of Love," it is one of the world's most important hubs for businesses, fashion, entertainment, and the arts and culture. This Fashion Capital, Paris, is home to some of the most prestigious fashion brands worldwide. From wandering through the hallways of the Louvre Museum, which are filled with artwork, and climbing the famous Eiffel Tower for sweeping city views, it has something to offer everyone. Paris is celebrated for more than just fashion and the Eiffel Tower. It boasts stunning gardens, famous landmarks, and intriguing underground tombs. If you're planning a visit to this vibrant city, we’ve compiled a list of the best things to do in Paris. Let’s get in!

For many visitors, experiencing Paris's most iconic symbol is a top priority. Constructed for the 1889 World Exposition, this iron structure stands over 300 meters tall in Champ de Mars Park. As one of the world's most photographed landmarks, the Eiffel Tower offers stunning photo opportunities both during the day and at night. Visitors can enjoy meals at one of the two exceptional restaurants within the tower and take the elevator to capture breathtaking views of the city.

As the world’s most-visited museum, the Louvre Museum is renowned for its distinctive glass pyramid entrance and its vast collection housed within the historic Louvre Palace. Home to over a million items, the Louvre features some of the most celebrated artworks globally, including Michelangelo's "Dying Slave," Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," and the Greek statue "Venus of Milo." Visitors can also explore the opulent Napoleon III apartments, Egyptian artifacts, the ancient Code of Hammurabi, and masterpieces by artists such as Rembrandt and Rubens.

The trip to Paris won’t seem complete without a visit to the famous Cathedral of Notre Dame. This majestic church is considered the pinnacle of French Gothic design, rising to a height of approximately four hundred feet with its two massive towers and spire. When seeing this 13th-century masterpiece, guests may admire the stunning Gothic carvings, beautiful sculptures, rose windows, plus an assortment of relics.

Built in 1806 to celebrate Napoleon Bonaparte's military triumphs, the Arc de Triomphe is a prominent tourist destination. Measuring 50 by 45 meters (164 feet tall and 148 feet wide), the arch is adorned with elaborate reliefs illustrating victorious battles and the names of soldiers who perished in service to the emperor. Underneath the arch rests the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.

The breathtaking Sacré-Cœur Basilica, with its gleaming white dome, stands as one of Paris's most famous landmarks. Situated on Montmartre Hill, the highest elevation in the city, this impressive church draws numerous visitors annually with its elegant marble facade and intricate interior.

Tours reveal highlights such as one of the largest clocks in the world, gold mosaics, and beautiful stained-glass windows.

Locals and visitors alike may find a peaceful haven at Champs-Élysées Gardens, amidst the busy metropolis. Wander along the promenades surrounded by trees, take in the immaculately kept lawns, and unwind by the beautifully placed fountains. A variety of cultural events & performances are hosted in the garden, which liven up the atmosphere and give guests a taste of Parisian culture. In the middle of the city, the Champs-Élysées Gardens offer a wonderful getaway, whether you're taking a stroll or heading to a concert.

Originally a hunting lodge for royalty, the Palace of Versailles evolved into a grand castle for the king's court. This opulent and elaborate structure is a major tourist attraction in Paris, renowned for its Hall of Mirrors, which features 17 arches adorned with 357 mirrors, and its magnificent gardens. Following the French Revolution, the palace ceased to be a royal residence and is now a museum dedicated to French history.

The Centre Pompidou, located in the Beaubourg neighborhood of the 4th arrondissement, is a cultural landmark known for its high-tech architecture. It houses a large public library, Europe’s largest modern art museum, the Musée National d'Art Moderne, a bookstore, a cinema, and a panoramic terrace. The library occupies the first three levels of the building, while the museum's permanent collection is displayed on the fourth and fifth floors. Major exhibitions are hosted on the top and first floors. The center is named after Georges Pompidou, the French president who commissioned its construction from 1969 to 1974

The Musee d'Orsay is one of the things to do in Paris France for art enthusiasts since it is home to the best assortment of impressionist paintings in the world. This opulent museum located in a former railroad station features hundreds of art pieces and artifacts from the half of the nineteenth century to the dawn of the 20th century. Amazing artwork by several well-known artists, including Van Gogh, Monet, Cezane, Degas, Renoir, Pissarro, and Jean-Francois Millet, may be seen by guests as they go through several rooms.

The River Seine passes through France for almost eight hundred kilometers (500 miles) on its way to the English Channel. River cruising is one of the most romantic Paris things to do for couples. Paris Seine cruises glide under several bridges and past iconic landmarks such as the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Eiffel Tower. Even though the journey lasts just an hour, it offers a remarkable experience. A Seine boat ride is also a fantastic way to see Paris illuminated at night.

The well-liked Luxembourg Gardens provide a tranquil sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here, you can take in the colorful flowerbeds and unwind by the lovely ponds. The well-tended lawn and enthralling statues offer a tranquil environment for relaxed strolls and picnics in the heart of Paris. For those looking for a beautiful Parisian experience, the ancient Luxembourg Palace & its surrounding attractions are open for exploration by visitors.

Disneyland Paris offers the most fun things to do in Paris and stands out as a popular tourist destination. This magical theme park welcomes guests of all ages into a realm of fantasy plus adventure filled with well-known Disney characters, exhilarating rides, and enthralling performances. From meeting iconic Disney characters to enjoying heart-pounding thrills, the theme park guarantees a unique experience for both Disney aficionados and families with children in Paris. You may explore imaginative regions like Fantasyland and Adventure Land. Disneyland Paris is an absolute must-see for everyone searching for thrilling activities to do in Paris, thanks to its immersive ambiance and limitless entertainment alternatives.

Montmartre is a little Parisian neighborhood perched on a hill, providing a singular fusion of artistic flare and historic attraction. With expansive panoramas of the city below, you may meander around its cobblestone lanes, which are dotted with charming cafes, art studios, & boutique stores. Visit Musée de Montmartre to learn more about the region's rich cultural past, or just take in the free-spirited vibe that has influenced countless authors and painters over the years.

Sainte-Chapelle should be on your list when exploring Paris. This 13th-century architectural marvel, renowned for its Gothic splendor and stunning stained-glass windows, showcases medieval artistry and religious devotion. Witness sunlight streaming through delicate glass panels depicting biblical events and stories, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of colors. Discovering Sainte-Chapelle is a captivating journey through time and creativity, making it a must-see for those seeking architectural wonders and cultural enrichment in Paris.

For a tranquil (and cost-free) getaway from all the chaos, head to the Latin Quarter is among the best things to do in Paris, France. One of Paris's oldest districts is the Latin Quarter. It's particularly well-liked by people who find architecture fascinating. This location also serves as home to the highly esteemed Sorbonne University in Paris. The National Museum of Natural History is one of the Latin Quarter's other attractions. Other activities include shopping, dining in cafes, strolling, and seeing cabaret.

For a tranquil (and cost-free) escape from the hustle and bustle, visiting the Latin Quarter is one of the best things to do in Paris. As one of Paris’s oldest districts, it’s a favorite for those interested in architecture. The Latin Quarter is also home to the prestigious Sorbonne University and the National Museum of Natural History. Enjoy shopping, dining in charming cafés, leisurely strolls, and lively cabaret shows in this historic neighborhood.

Unlike ghost tours of other cemeteries across the world, strolling through this immaculate cemetery offers a singular experience. You can truly appreciate the effort put out to preserve reverence and tranquility for the hereafter by visiting Père Lachaise Cemetery during the day. When you have some spare time, visit this place and take advantage of one of the greatest free activities in Paris. Make sure to look for the tombs of notable people like Jim Morrison, Frédéric Chopin, and Oscar Wilde.

For the best things to do in Paris, Musée de l'Orangerie should be on your list. This museum showcases impressionist and post-impressionist art, including Monet's famous Water Lilies. Strategically planning your visit to this museum, located in the Tuileries Garden just a short distance from the Louvre Museum, can help you create the perfect Paris itinerary. Explore these top attractions in Paris and its surroundings in either half a day or a full day.

When visiting Paris, tourists can view the original of the renowned sculpture The Thinker, created by the famous French artist Auguste Rodin in the early 20th century. The Thinker, along with 6,600 other sculptures, is housed in the Musée Rodin, established in 1919 in Rodin's former studio, Hôtel Biron, located in downtown Paris. The museum's grounds also feature some of his iconic sculptures.

The Palais Garnier, a renowned opera building from the 19th century in Paris, is where entertainment meets architecture. This beautiful building, which was constructed for the Paris Opera in the 1860s, has over 1,800 seats accessible, however, access to the Palais Garnier used to be mostly reserved for the French bourgeois class. The opera theater has now been accessible to everyone. Beyond merely ballet and opera, there are now additional performances available, such as concerts and musical theater. The area is available for visitors to observe and take photos of whenever the home is not hosting an event.