Outdoor Activities In Paris

Paris has long been a destination for tourists and adventurers, who flock to the city for its world-renowned attractions, culture, and nightlife. With its iconic skyline and bustling streets, the French capital has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled weekend, Paris has plenty of activities to suit your needs. Here’s a guide to the best outdoor activities in Paris.

A Brief History of Paris

Paris has been inhabited since the 3rd century BC, when it was first founded as a trading city by the Celtic Parisii tribe. The city was later conquered by the Romans and renamed Lutetia. In the 9th century, the city was seized by the Franks and became the capital of the Merovingian dynasty and the Kingdom of France. In the 13th century, Paris underwent a period of transformation, with the construction of new monuments and landmarks such as the Louvre and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Throughout its history, Paris has been a cultural center of art, fashion, music and literature, making it one of the most iconic cities in the world.

Today, Paris is one of the most populous cities in Europe, with a population of over 2 million people. The city is renowned for its fashion, art, culture, cuisine, and nightlife. Its iconic landmarks include the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Paris also has a rich culinary scene, with a variety of restaurants, bistros, and cafes offering traditional French cuisine as well as international dishes.

Outdoor Activities in Paris

Paris is an ideal destination for those looking to get out and explore the city’s many attractions. From hiking and biking to boat cruises and shopping, there is something for everyone. Here are some of the best outdoor activities in Paris:

Hiking & Biking

Paris is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the city on two wheels or on foot. With its wide selection of trails, parks and paths, Paris is perfect for biking and hiking enthusiasts. There are several biking trails which travel through the city and along riverside paths, providing breathtaking views of some of Paris’ most iconic landmarks. Bike tours are also available for those looking for a guided experience.

For those who prefer to hike, there are numerous routes available within the city limits. The Bois de Boulogne is a large park on the western edge of Paris which has several hiking trails with stunning views of the city. The Bois de Vincennes on the eastern edge of Paris also has several trails which are ideal for hikers.

Boat Cruises

Paris is home to the world-famous Seine River which runs through the heart of the city. Taking a boat cruise along this iconic river is a great way to experience Paris from a unique perspective. There are numerous companies offering boat tours along the river Seine which provide spectacular views of some of the most famous landmarks in Paris. These boat cruises are available throughout the year and range from day-long trips to evening cruises with dinner included.

Shopping

Paris is a paradise for shoppers and is home to some of the most famous shopping streets in Europe. The Champs-Elysees is a popular shopping street in Paris which stretches from Place de la Concorde to Place Charles de Gaulle. This street is home to some of the world’s top luxury brands as well as many cafes and restaurants. Other popular shopping streets in Paris include Rue de Rivoli, Boulevard Haussmann and Rue de la Paix.

Outdoor Markets

Paris is also home to numerous outdoor markets which are perfect for those looking for a break from shopping in stores. Marché aux Puces de Clignancourt is one of the largest flea markets in Europe, offering everything from antiques to vintage clothes and artwork. The Marais district also hosts an outdoor market every Sunday which features antiques, food and clothing from local vendors. There are also numerous weekly farmers’ markets throughout Paris which offer fresh produce from local farmers as well as prepared foods such as cheese, bread and pastries.

Popular Tours in Paris

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, and there are plenty of tours available for those looking to experience more of the city’s sights and attractions. Here are two popular tours in Paris that visitors can book online:

Bike Tour Through Montmartre

This bike tour takes visitors on a journey through Montmartre, one of Paris’ oldest neighborhoods. Visitors will explore the cobblestone streets while learning about Montmartre’s history and culture from their knowledgeable guide. The tour includes stops at iconic landmarks such as Sacré-Coeur Basilica and Place du Tertre square where visitors can admire the views or buy souvenirs from local artists. The tour ends with a visit to an authentic French bakery where visitors can sample some delicious pastries. Book this tour here.

Seine River Dinner Cruise

This dinner cruise takes visitors along the Seine River while they enjoy a delicious three-course meal prepared by an on-board chef. As they dine, they will be treated to sweeping views of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, and Louvre Museum. The cruise includes live music and entertainment throughout the evening as well as guided commentary about the city’s history and culture. Book this cruise here.

By taking advantage of these outdoor activities in Paris, visitors can experience firsthand all that this incredible city has to offer. Whether it’s biking through Montmartre or cruising along the Seine River while enjoying dinner, there’s sure to be something for everyone in Paris.