The City of Lights: A Guide To Places To Go In Paris, France

The City of Lights. A place of romance and culture, Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world. From its many cafés and Haussmannian architecture to its celebrated art galleries and parks, Paris is a city that has something for everyone. With its winding streets and endless possibilities, it can be overwhelming to plan your first visit. Here is a guide to the many places to go in Paris, France that will help you make the most of your trip.

History and General Information

Paris has a long and storied history that dates back centuries. Founded by a Celtic tribe in the 3rd century BC, Paris was conquered by the Romans in the 1st century BC and then by the Franks in the 5th century AD. By the 14th century, Paris had become the political and cultural center of France. The city continued to grow in size and importance throughout the centuries, becoming a major world city during the French Revolution and a center of modern art and culture during the 19th century. Today, Paris is home to more than 2 million people and serves as a popular tourist destination for people from around the world.

Most Popular and Iconic Sights

Paris is filled with iconic sights that are sure to make your visit memorable. The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre are some of the most popular tourist attractions. The Champs-Élysées is a renowned shopping street, while the Latin Quarter is home to numerous theaters, restaurants, and cafés. The Tuileries Garden is a beautiful park located near the Louvre and is a great spot for an afternoon stroll. Other must-see sights include the Arc de Triomphe, the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, and Place de la Concorde.

Unique Experiences

Paris is known for its unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else. Taking a stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets of Montmartre is an unforgettable experience. Here you can explore the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, take in great views of the city from atop its hill, and shop for souvenirs at its many boutiques. The Catacombs of Paris are an eerie network of underground tunnels filled with thousands of human bones that were transferred in 1786 from several Parisian cemeteries. If you’re looking for a unique culinary experience, visit one of Paris’s many open-air markets to sample local foods such as cheese, charcuterie, fruits and vegetables, and much more.

Museums

Paris is home to many world-class museums, making it an ideal destination for art lovers. The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world and houses thousands of works from some of history’s greatest artists. The Musée d’Orsay is another popular museum that focuses on French Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. The Centre Pompidou displays modern art from around the world and also hosts events such as concerts and film screenings. Other notable museums include the Musée de l’Orangerie, Musée Rodin, Musée Picasso, Musée Marmottan Monet, and Musée des Arts Décoratifs.

Book a Seine River Cruise

A Seine River cruise is one of the best ways to experience Paris’s stunning architecture and landmarks. On board, you will pass by iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum as you enjoy a guided commentary about each one’s history and significance. The cruise also offers a perfect opportunity to take photos of these famous attractions from a unique perspective. A Seine River cruise typically lasts around two hours; you can find cruises that depart from several locations along the Seine River, such as Pont Neuf bridge or from Bateaux Mouches pier near Eiffel Tower. Book a Seine River Cruise here.

Visit Versailles

The Palace of Versailles was once home to French kings and queens in the 17th century. Today, it is one of France’s most popular tourist attractions thanks to its remarkable architecture and gardens. On a visit to Versailles, you can explore its many sumptuous rooms filled with antiques and artwork, admire its ornate gardens, visit Marie-Antoinette’s estate, or take part in one of its special events such as its annual fireworks show or musical fountain show. Book a Versailles Tour here.

Take a Food Tour

Paris has some of the best food in Europe, so why not explore its culinary side with a food tour? On a food tour, you will wander through different neighborhoods tasting delicious French dishes such as cheese, charcuterie, pastries, chocolates, macarons, and more while learning about French cuisine and culture. You can choose from several different tours depending on your interests such as a cheese tasting tour or a patisserie tasting tour. Book a Food Tour here.

Conclusion

Paris is an unforgettable city full of unique experiences and attractions that will make your visit truly special. From exploring its iconic architecture to taking part in one of its many cultural activities, there are endless possibilities for making the most out of your time in Paris. Use this guide to help plan your trip so that you can explore all the places to go in Paris, France like a true local!