To Do In Paris: A Comprehensive Tourist Guide

Paris is one of the world’s most iconic cities, known for its romantic atmosphere, delicious cuisine, and impressive art. From its world-famous museums and iconic monuments to its bustling nightlife and diverse neighborhoods, Paris has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a returning traveler, you’ll find plenty of things to do in this magical city.

A Brief History of Paris

The history of Paris dates back to the 3rd century BC when the city was founded by the Parisii, a Celtic tribe. The Romans conquered it in the 2nd century BC and it became the capital of the Roman province of Gallia. During the Middle Ages, Paris grew into an important cultural and intellectual center, and was home to many famous universities and schools. In the 17th century, it became a major center of art, culture, and architecture.

Today, Paris is home to more than 2 million people and is the largest city in France. It is a major economic hub, with many business headquarters located in the city, and is known for its fashion and art scene. It is also home to many iconic monuments and landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.

Popular Sights & Activities

Paris is a city that has something for everyone. From historic monuments to art galleries to vibrant markets, there are plenty of sights and activities to explore. Here are just a few of the popular attractions that visitors should not miss:

The Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to this famous landmark. The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 for the World’s Fair and stands at 324 meters tall. It is one of the most visited monuments in the world, drawing over 6 million visitors each year. Visitors can take the elevator to the observation deck for stunning views of the city and can even buy souvenirs from the gift shop.

Notre Dame Cathedral

Another popular destination in Paris is Notre Dame Cathedral. This gothic cathedral was built in 1163 and is best known for its flying buttresses and beautiful stained glass windows. Visitors can explore the interior of the cathedral and admire its impressive architecture. The cathedral also offers tours of its grounds, as well as concerts and other events.

The Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s largest museums and houses some of the most famous works of art ever created. It is home to masterpieces by Raphael, Rembrandt, and Leonardo da Vinci, among others. Visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries, as well as its special exhibitions.

Shopping & Markets

Paris is also a great place to shop, with many designer stores, boutiques, and markets located around the city. Popular shopping destinations include Les Halles, the largest shopping center in Paris; Marais, an area known for its designer boutiques; and La Bourse du Commerce, a flea market with over 200 vendors.

Nightlife & Dining

Paris is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and music venues located around the city. Popular spots include La Bellevilloise, a music venue located in the trendy Marais district; Le Bataclan, a legendary music hall; and La Fée Verte, a cocktail bar located in Montmartre.

When it comes to dining, Paris has something for everyone. From traditional French cuisine to international flavors, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Popular spots include Le Petit Chatelet, an intimate bistro located in Marais; La Petite Couronne, a Michelin-starred restaurant in Montmartre; and L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon, a two-Michelin-starred restaurant in St Germain des Près.

Popular Tours in Paris

Visitors looking for guided tours of Paris should consider one of these popular activities:

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

A great way to explore Paris is by taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour of the city. This tour allows visitors to see all of the major sights from the comfort of an open-air bus. The tour also includes audio commentary in English and stops at all of the major attractions, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and more. Book a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour here.

Seine River Cruise

Another popular tour in Paris is a Seine River Cruise. This cruise takes visitors along the banks of the Seine River and offers stunning views of Paris’ iconic monuments along the way. The tour includes commentary in both English and French and lasts approximately one hour. Book a Seine River Cruise here.

Walking Tour of Montmartre

For those looking for a more intimate tour of Paris, a walking tour of Montmartre is a great option. This tour takes visitors through the bohemian streets of Montmartre and includes stops at some of its most famous sites such as Place du Tertre and Sacré-Coeur Basilica. The tour also includes commentary from an expert guide in both English and French. Book a Walking Tour of Montmartre here.

Conclusion

Paris is a city full of history, culture, art, and romance that has something for everyone. From iconic landmarks to vibrant nightlife to delicious cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in this magical city. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are a returning traveler, you’ll find plenty of activities and attractions that you won’t want to miss.