What are the Best Things to Do in Paris?

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, known for its rich cultural heritage and plethora of attractions. It’s a cosmopolitan city filled with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Museum, and more. This overwhelming number of things to see and do can be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled a list of the best ways to make the most of your time in Paris.

Visit the Louvre

One of the most iconic tourist attractions in Paris has to be the Louvre Museum. Opened in 1793, it is one of the largest museum of its kind in the world, featuring 35,000 artworks from all over the world. The museum’s most famous piece is da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, but the vast collections housed inside are all worth a visit.

Take a River Cruise

A great way to see Paris is to see its most iconic landmarks by boat. Seine river cruises traverse the length of the river and provide fantastic views of some of the most famous landmarks, particularly at night when they are illuminated. There are a few different companies offering cruises and all offer different ways to explore. Some offer dinner cruises and even champagne-soaked boat trips.

Explore Montmartre

Montmartre is a lovely district located on a hill overlooking Paris. This area is known for its bohemian spirit, picturesque cobblestone streets and spectacular views. It is home to some renowned attractions such as the Sacré Coeur Basilica, Place du Tertre (where artists gather to show their paintings), and many more. In addition to its beautiful artistic sites, the area is lined with bistros, restaurants and boutiques. Make sure you spend an afternoon wandering around Montmartre and admiring the beautiful views and grand architecture.

Shop at Galeries Lafayette

Galeries Lafayette is an iconic Parisian department store located in the 9th arrondissement. The store offers a wide selection of high-end clothing, cosmetics, accessories and more. Not only that, but it is one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris, featuring an intricate art nouveau inspiration on its glass dome ceiling. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs or if you just want to browse around.

Visit Versailles

One of the most popular tourist attractions outside of Paris is Versailles Palace. The 17th-century royal palace used to be home to Louis XIV, where he hosted lavish parties and events. Today it is a world-famous tourist attraction that offers a stroll through French history. The gardens alone will take you back in time – exploring them will make you feel as if you have been transported to a different era.

Experience Nightlife

Paris is well known for its nightlife – with clubs, pubs, cafés and live music venues scattered throughout the city. There are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re looking for hip-hop, jazz or EDM. Some venues also hold special events and music festivals. So if you’re looking for some late night fun, you won’t have to look far.

Have a Picnic in Luxembourg Gardens

Luxembourg Gardens is one of the city’s loveliest parks located in the Latin Quarter. The gardens feature tree-lined paths, flower gardens and ponds all nestled in shady groves and surrounded by elegant buildings and greenhouses. This is a great spot to have a picnic or just soak in the relaxed atmosphere – it’s also a popular spot for locals for their morning jog.

Paris has so much to offer – from its iconic landmarks to its captivating culture, there is something for everyone. With this guide, hopefully you’ll be more prepared to explore all this amazing city has to offer on your next visit. And if you need more inspiration or tips on what to do in Paris, be sure to read up on Tripadvisor’s guide.

An Insider’s Guide to Discovering the Magic of Paris

Ah, Paris – the City of Lights, the culinary capital of the world, and a place that is once visited, never forgotten. It’s a tourist’s dream destination – but as any resident would tell you, there’s so much more to see and experience than just the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Notre-Dame. So, if you want to truly discover the magic of Paris, here are some insider tips to help you see the city like a local.

Hidden Gems in Paris: Discovering the Unexplored

While you shouldn’t skip the must-see tourist attractions, it’s important not to overlook the hidden gems that locals love. For example, visit the Museum of Romantic Life, tucked away in a charming courtyard in the Pigalle neighborhood. You’ll find a beautiful collection of romantic-era art, as well as learn about the life and work of celebrated 19th-century novelist George Sand. Another off-the-beaten-path attraction is the St-Ouen flea market, full of curious antiques and artifacts that will transport you back in time.

Taste the Flavors of Paris with its Local Cuisine

Paris is known for its gastronomy, and for good reason. From croissants to escargots, French cuisine is an art form that has to be experienced to be truly appreciated. If you’re looking for an insider restaurant recommendation, try Le Comptoir du Relais in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. This buzzy bistro is run by legendary chef Yves Camdeborde and serves up some of the best French dishes in the city.
While speaking of traditional French cuisine, learn about the history of the famous “baguette” and how it came to define French culture as we know it.

Indulge in Parisian Culture

Paris is not just about the architecture and the food – it’s a city that is rich in culture too. In the spring months, the city comes alive with the sounds of music as Parisians flock to the Fête de la Musique, a day-long celebration of street musicians. The city is also home to many art galleries and museums, including the Musée d’Orsay, which houses a stunning collection of impressionist masterpieces. If you’re looking for something a little unconventional, take a trip to Parc de la Villette. This futuristic park is home to a giant 26-meter high geodesic sphere, within which is a museum dedicated to the sciences, a must-visit for both children and adults.

Discover the Stories that Make Paris Unique

Paris has one of the richest histories of any other city worldwide. From Joan of Arc to Napoleon, from the French Revolution to World War II, Paris has played a significant role in shaping the world we know today. Take the story of the famous Cathedral of Notre-Dame, which has stood in the city since the 12th century. It has withstood wars, fires, and terrorist attacks, serving as a symbol of resilience and hope for Parisians throughout the centuries. Discovering the history of this magnificent cathedral is what makes visiting it all the more special.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience in Paris

If you’re looking for something truly unforgettable, consider taking a hot air balloon ride over the city. From above, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine River while experiencing the city in an entirely new way. Another idea is to explore the hidden wine bars of Paris, which are often cozy basements that can only hold a few patrons at a time. These offbeat establishments are a great place to sample French wines in the company of locals.

That concludes our insider’s guide to Paris. We hope that this has been helpful to you in creating your itinerary for exploring one of the most beautiful and fascinating destinations in the world. Paris is a city that will steal your heart, and with these tips, we guarantee that your trip will be one you’ll never forget.