To Do In Paris Today: The Ultimate City Guide For First-Time Visitors

Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world and for a good reason, it’s the city of love, culture and beauty. From its renowned art galleries, delicious French cuisine and impressive monuments to its breathtaking views, picturesque streets and charming locals, Paris is a destination that needs to be experienced at least once in a lifetime.

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you may be wondering what you should do during your visit. To help you out, we’ve put together this guide with the best activities and attractions in Paris. From popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to lesser-known gems like the Catacombs of Paris and the Jardins du Trocadero, here’s what to do in Paris today.

Visit the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic landmark in Paris and one of the most recognizable structures in the world. It was built in 1889 to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution and has since come to symbolize the French capital. Located on the Champ de Mars in the 7th arrondissement, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most popular attractions in Paris and it’s easy to understand why. It’s a breathtaking structure that can be seen from all over the city and offers an incredible view from its observation decks.

The Eiffel Tower is open every day from 9:30am to 11pm. The cost of admission varies depending on the type of ticket you purchase. There are several different types of tickets, including standard tickets, tickets with access to the top of the tower and tickets with access to the summit. You can book your tickets online in advance at toureiffel.paris or purchase them in person at the ticket office.

Explore the Louvre

The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world and one of the largest in Europe. It’s home to an incredible collection of artifacts from various civilizations, from Greek and Roman antiquities to Renaissance paintings. The museum is located in the Louvre Palace in the 1st arrondissement and is open every day from 9am to 6pm. It’s best to purchase tickets in advance at the official Louvre website to avoid long queues.

Admire Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most iconic and beautiful churches in the world. It was built in the 12th century and is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral is located on the Île de la Cité in the 4th arrondissement and is open every day from 8am to 6:45pm. Admission to the cathedral is free, however if you wish to climb the towers, you must purchase a ticket in advance at the Notre Dame website.

Stroll Through the Jardins du Trocadero

The Jardins du Trocadero is one of the most beautiful parks in Paris. It’s located in the 16th arrondissement and offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. The park is open every day from 8am to 10pm and is a great place to relax and take in the sights of Paris. There are also several restaurants and cafés in the park, so it’s the perfect spot to have lunch or a snack.

Discover the Catacombs of Paris

The Catacombs of Paris are one of the city’s most fascinating and mysterious attractions. Located in the 14th arrondissement, the catacombs are a network of underground tunnels and chambers filled with the remains of millions of Parisians. The catacombs are open every day from 10am to 8:30pm and tickets can be purchased in advance at catacombes.paris.fr.

Experience a Boat Cruise on the Seine

The Seine River is one of the most iconic sights in Paris and a great way to explore the city. There are several boat cruise companies operating on the Seine, offering different kinds of tours, from sightseeing tours to romantic dinner cruises. You can book your tickets online in advance at Viator or GetYourGuide.

Visit the Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is a museum located in the 7th arrondissement, dedicated to French art from the 19th and early 20th centuries. It’s home to an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, sculptures and furniture from a variety of famous artists, including Monet, Cézanne, Manet and Renoir. The museum is open every day from 9:30am to 6pm and tickets can be purchased in advance at musee-orsay.fr.

Shop at the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen

The Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is one of the largest flea markets in the world and a great place to find unique souvenirs and antiques. Located in the northern suburbs of Paris, the market is open every day from 10am to 6pm. You can find everything from vintage clothing and furniture to antiques, jewelry and art.

Additional Tips For Visiting Paris

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, so it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared for your trip. Here are some additional tips for visiting Paris:

• Paris has an extensive public transport system, so it’s best to purchase a Navigo pass for unlimited travel on the metro, buses and trams.
• If you plan to visit multiple attractions, it might be worth purchasing a Paris Museum Pass, which gives you access to over 70 attractions and museums.
• Paris is well known for its cuisine, so make sure to try some traditional French dishes like coq au vin, bouillabaisse and macarons.
• Be aware of pickpockets and other scams. Make sure to keep your belongings safe and be aware of your surroundings.
• The local currency is the Euro, so make sure to have enough cash with you, as some smaller shops and restaurants may not accept credit cards.
• Finally, make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the season. Paris can be chilly in the winter and hot in the summer, so make sure to check the weather forecast before you go.

Conclusion

Paris is a truly unique city with something for everyone, so make sure to make the most of your visit and explore all the amazing attractions that the city has to offer. From the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to the Catacombs of Paris and the Jardins du Trocadero, there’s something for everyone in Paris. With this guide, you have all the information you need to make the most of your visit and have a truly unforgettable experience. Bon voyage!