Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most romantic, beautiful, and iconic cities in the world. It is the capital of France and home to millions of people from all over the world. The city is steeped in history, art, culture, and architecture, and is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame de Paris, and many more. Paris is a vibrant and exciting city that continues to draw visitors from around the world to experience its unique culture and attractions.

In this guide, we will explore some of the must-see attractions in Paris for any first-time visitor. From famous monuments and museums to charming cafes and delightful neighborhoods, this guide will help you make the most of your Parisian experience.

History of Paris

Paris is one of the oldest cities in the world and has been a focal point in European history since its founding. It was founded by a Celtic tribe in the 3rd century BC, but it was not until the 11th century that it began to develop into a major city. In the 12th century, Paris began to be ruled by a monarchy and became increasingly important as a political, economic, and cultural hub. By the 18th century, Paris had become one of the most important cities in Europe and was home to many of the era’s greatest thinkers and artists.

Today, Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Its population is estimated at 2.2 million people, making it the largest city in France. It is also one of the most visited cities in the world, with over 30 million tourists visiting each year.

Things to Do in Paris

Paris is full of incredible attractions to see and things to do. Here are some of the must-see sights:

The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is arguably one of the most iconic attractions in Paris. Located on the banks of the Seine River, it stands 984 feet tall and has become an iconic symbol of the city. Visitors can take in the stunning views from its observation decks or take a trip up to its summit for an even more breathtaking experience.

The Louvre

The Louvre is one of the most famous and visited museums in the world. Located in the heart of Paris, it houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts from all over the world. From Egyptian antiquities to Renaissance paintings, there is something for everyone to discover inside this incredible museum.

Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, located on an island in the middle of the Seine River. The building dates back to the 12th century and was once home to a thriving community of monks. Today it stands as a testament to Paris’s rich history and culture. Visitors can take guided tours inside to explore its impressive interior.

Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is one of Paris’s most iconic streets and is home to some of the city’s most exclusive shops, restaurants, and cafes. The street stretches for nearly two miles from Place de la Concorde to Place Charles de Gaulle. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll down this famous street or shop till they drop at some of its luxury boutiques.

Montmartre

Montmartre is a charming area located on a hilltop in northern Paris. It is home to some of Paris’s most iconic sights such as the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the Moulin Rouge cabaret. Visitors can wander the cobblestoned streets and explore its many art galleries and cafes or take a trip up to the Sacré-Cœur for stunning views of Paris.

The Catacombs

The Catacombs of Paris are an underground network of tunnels and chambers filled with bones from those who died during centuries past. The catacombs are open to visitors who want to explore this eerie yet fascinating underground network.

Tours & Activities in Paris

Visitors to Paris can take advantage of many tours and activities in order to get an even more immersive experience of this incredible city. Here are two popular tours that offer an unforgettable experience:

Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Tour

A Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Tour enables visitors to get up close to this iconic attraction without having to stand in line for hours. The tour includes access to the 2nd floor observation deck for stunning views of Paris as well as a visit to the summit of the tower for even more breathtaking views. The tour also includes an audio guide with information about the tower’s history and design. Book a Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Tour here.

Seine River Cruise

A Seine River Cruise offers visitors a unique way to explore Paris by taking a leisurely boat ride down this historic river. The cruise takes visitors past some of Paris’s iconic sights such as Notre Dame de Paris and the Eiffel Tower as well as some lesser-known areas such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais. Book a Seine River Cruise here.

Where to Stay in Paris

Paris has an abundance of accommodation options for visitors ranging from luxury hotels to budget hostels. Depending on your budget and preferences, there are plenty of options for anyone looking for accommodation in this beautiful city. Here are some of our top picks:

Hotel du Louvre

This luxury hotel is located near one of Paris’s most famous attractions – The Louvre Museum. This 5-star hotel offers elegant rooms with views of the museum’s iconic glass pyramid as well as an onsite restaurant serving French cuisine.

Le Marais Apartments

These apartments are located in one of Paris’s trendiest areas – Le Marais. The apartments offer modern decor with spacious rooms and fully equipped kitchenettes. There is also a 24-hour concierge service available for guests’ convenience.

Hôtel des Grandes Écoles

This hotel is located near The Latin Quarter and offers comfortable accommodation at great value for money. The rooms are simple yet comfortable with basic amenities such as Wi-Fi access, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms with showers.

Conclusion

Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world and offers visitors a unique experience unlike any other destination on Earth. From exploring its world-famous attractions to getting lost in its charming neighborhoods and indulging in its delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in this beautiful city. With this guide, we hope you now feel ready to explore all that Paris has to offer!