Must See Sites In Paris: A Comprehensive Guide for First-Time Travellers

Paris is an incredible city, filled with culture, art, and history. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, with an estimated 30 million tourists visiting every year. From its iconic Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, there is no shortage of sights to see and things to do in the City of Lights. This blog post aims to provide first-time travellers with a comprehensive guide of the must-see sites in Paris.

The Eiffel Tower

Perhaps the most iconic landmark of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see sight. Built in 1889, it stands 324 metres tall, making it the tallest structure in the city. There are three levels, each with its own observation deck, offering stunning views of Paris and the surrounding areas. The second level also has a restaurant with incredible views of the city. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, with an estimated 7 million visitors per year. For the best views, it is recommended to visit the tower in the morning or late evening, when there are fewer crowds.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is the world’s largest art museum, with an estimated 35,000 works of art on display. It is home to some of the world’s most famous works, such as the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo. It has been open since 1793, and it is one of the most visited museums in the world, with an estimated 10 million visitors per year. It is also a popular filming location for movies such as The Da Vinci Code and Mission Impossible.

Notre Dame

Notre Dame is one of the most famous churches in the world, and the most iconic landmark in the city of Paris. It was built in the 12th century, and it stands 77 metres tall. It is home to some of the most stunning stained glass windows, and the gargoyles on the roof are a popular tourist attraction. It is also the site of one of the most famous love stories of all time, the one between Quasimodo and Esmeralda in the novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

The Champs-Elysees

The Champs-Elysees is one of the most famous streets in the world, and it is the most popular tourist destination in Paris. It is 1.2 kilometres long and is lined with shops, restaurants, cafes, and theatres. It is also home to some of the finest hotels in the city, such as the Four Seasons and the Ritz. It is a popular spot for people-watching and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris. It was built in 1806 to commemorate Napoleon’s victory at the Battle of Austerlitz. It stands 50 metres tall and is adorned with sculptures and reliefs that depict important battles and events from French history. It is a popular spot for tourists, and it is a great place to take some stunning photos of the city.

Montmartre

Located on the highest hill in the city, Montmartre is one of the most picturesque neighbourhoods in Paris. It is home to the iconic Sacre-Coeur Basilica, as well as the Moulin Rouge and Place du Tertre, a popular square filled with art galleries and street artists. It is also home to some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes in the city.

The Catacombs

The Catacombs of Paris are a unique and fascinating attraction. Located 20 metres below the city, they are a network of tunnels and passageways filled with the bones of millions of people. It is estimated that over 6 million people are buried in the catacombs, and it is a popular tourist attraction, with an estimated 1 million visitors per year.

Other Must-See Sites

Aside from the above-mentioned must-see sites, there are many other attractions in Paris, such as the Jardin des Tuileries, the Luxembourg Gardens, and the Orsay Museum. There are also many activities and tours available, such as river cruises, bike tours, and walking tours. There are also many interesting shops and markets to explore, such as the Marche aux Puces and the Marché Monge.

Additional Tips for Travellers

Paris is a very safe city, but it is important to be aware of your surroundings and to take the necessary precautions when travelling. It is also important to remember that Paris is a very expensive city, so it is important to budget accordingly. It is also recommended to purchase a Paris Museum Pass, which allows you to visit over 50 different museums and attractions in the city.

Visiting Paris for the first time can be a daunting experience, but with the right preparation, it can be an enjoyable and unforgettable experience. With this guide, you will be able to make the most of your visit and explore all of the must-see sites in the City of Lights. Bon Voyage!