Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world for a good reason. Rich in history, art, fashion, and cultural experiences, the French capital offers various attractions for every kind of traveler. Whether you are interested in architecture, shopping, or simply enjoying world-class culture, this guide highlights the essential things to do while visiting Paris.
1. Visit the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. Standing 330 meters tall, the tower offers access to three distinct levels. The first floor features a glass floor, a museum exhibit on the tower’s history, and rotating cultural displays. The second floor provides excellent views of the city and is the best spot for photography due to its optimal elevation. It’s also home to Le Jules Verne restaurant. The top-level summit, accessible via a second elevator, offers panoramic views of Paris, complete with a champagne bar.
Ticket prices vary depending on how you choose to ascend. A second-floor ticket with the lift costs €23.10, while a ticket to the summit is €36.10. If you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can climb the stairs to the second floor for a more affordable experience!
Tips:
- Book tickets online to skip the long lines.
- Visit early in the morning or late in the evening for fewer crowds.
- If possible, ascend stairs to the second level for a unique experience.
More information: tour-eiffel.paris
2. Explore the Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world’s largest art museum and a former royal palace. It houses iconic masterpieces like Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Greek statue Venus de Milo, and Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People. The museum is divided into several wings, each specializing in different periods and civilizations.
The Louvre is enormous, and it can be a bit overwhelming to navigate. If you’re pressed for time, start at the Denon Wing, home to the most famous works like the Mona Lisa and The Wedding Feast at Cana. You can pick up a map at the entrance or download the Louvre’s app for an interactive guide.
Tickets for the Louvre cost €22, with free entry for youth under 25 years old.
Tips:
- Enter via the Passage Richelieu if you want to avoid the long lines at the pyramid.
- Use the official Louvre app or pick up a map to plan your route.
- Visit on Wednesday or Friday evenings when the museum closes late and is less crowded.
More information: louvre.fr
3. Visit the Reopened Notre-Dame Cathedral
After years of meticulous restoration following the devastating 2019 fire, Notre Dame Cathedral officially reopened to the public in December 2024. The structure is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, with its intricate façade, flying buttresses, and stunning stained-glass rose windows. The interior has been fully restored, including the nave, altar, and choir.
Entrance to Notre-Dame Cathedral is free, allowing everyone to experience its stunning architecture and history. To reduce your waiting time at the entrance, you can book free access online a few hours before your visit. This option is entirely optional and is designed to streamline entries, helping you avoid unnecessary waiting. While the cathedral itself is free to enter, you can also visit the crypt or climb the tower for a small fee if you want an extra experience.
Tips:
- Book a guided tour to gain deeper insight into the cathedral’s history and restoration.
- Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.
- Climb the bell towers for a spectacular view of Paris and to see the famous gargoyles up close.
More info: notre-dame-de-paris.culture.gouv.fr
4. Discover Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Perched atop Paris’s highest hill, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers sweeping views over the city. The interior is equally remarkable, featuring one of the world’s largest mosaics. Entrance is free, but you’ll likely have to wait in line—though it usually moves quickly. The dress code is very strict, so be sure to dress respectfully. To reach the very top, you’ll need to buy a ticket on-site for €8, but the views are totally worth it. From up there, you’ll see the Paris skyline in all its glory, including iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Montmartre, the surrounding neighborhood, is steeped in artistic history and once housed legends like Picasso and Van Gogh.
Tips:
- Climb the 300 steps to the dome for an even higher viewpoint (no elevator available).
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and pickpockets around the base.
- Visit the nearby Place du Tertre to see local artists at work.
More info: discoverwalks.com
5. Stroll the Champs-Élysées and Visit the Arc de Triomphe
From Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées is Paris’s most iconic avenue. This historic boulevard is lined with theaters, cafés, and luxury shops, making it a must-see for any visitor. The Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, honors those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. It also stands as a symbol of national pride.
To access the rooftop, where you’ll find one of the best 360° views of Paris, you’ll need to buy a ticket for €21. The view from the top is breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the city, including landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and the sprawling Champs-Élysées itself.
The Arc also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I, which adds a layer of reverence and history to your visit. Beneath the arch, a flame is rekindled every evening at 6:30 PM as a tribute to those who died in war. If you want to learn more about the monument’s significance, there’s a small museum inside that explains its history and the symbolic role it plays in French culture.
The Arc de Triomphe is easily accessible by metro, with the Charles de Gaulle–Étoile station located nearby.
Tips:
- Use the underground pedestrian passage to access the Arc; do not attempt to cross the busy roundabout.
- Visit at dusk to see the monument and avenue lit beautifully.
- Watch the daily 6:30 pm ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Tickets: monuments-nationaux.fr
6. Enjoy a Seine River Cruise
A Seine River cruise offers a tranquil way to admire Paris’s most famous monuments from the water, including Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. As you glide along the river, you’ll get a unique perspective of the city’s historic bridges, charming quays, and iconic landmarks. The cruises typically last around 1 hour, giving you plenty of time to soak in the beauty of Paris.
Evening cruises are particularly atmospheric, as the city’s bridges and landmarks are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical setting. The glowing Eiffel Tower, in particular, is a highlight as it sparkles every hour on the hour after sunset. It’s an unforgettable experience, especially if you’re looking for a romantic or peaceful way to see Paris.
Tickets for a Seine River cruise generally cost around €18, though prices can vary depending on the company and the type of cruise (some offer dinner or drinks during the ride). For a more intimate experience, you can also book a private cruise or opt for a longer, more luxurious dinner cruise.
Tips:
- Book a dinner cruise for a romantic evening experience.
- Choose open-deck boats in good weather for unobstructed views.
- Sit on the right side when boarding near the Eiffel Tower for better photo ops.
Cruise options: bateauxparisiens.com
7. Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens, created in 1612, offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Left Bank. These gardens are one of the most beautiful parks I’ve visited, featuring tree-lined promenades, fountains, statues, and the stately Luxembourg Palace. It’s free to enter, making it an accessible spot to unwind and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Tips:
- Visit in the morning for a quieter atmosphere and better lighting for photos.
- Don’t miss the Medici Fountain and the French vs. English style garden contrast.
- Chairs are movable—feel free to reposition them for the best view.
Park info: paris.fr
8. Visit Palais Garnier and Galeries Lafayette
Palais Garnier is a marvel of Beaux-Arts architecture, famed for its opulent interiors, grand staircase, and Chagall-painted ceiling. It offers both guided and self-guided tours, giving visitors access to the magnificent auditorium and the Grand Foyer. The building is also known for inspiring Gaston Leroux’s famous novel The Phantom of the Opera, adding a touch of mystery to its grand history.
The entrance fee is €15, which grants you access to explore the building at your own pace or with a guide, depending on your preference. Whether you’re an architecture lover, a history buff, or a fan of the arts, Palais Garnier offers a glimpse into the world of Parisian culture and opulence.
Tips:
- Check for daytime performance rehearsals you might glimpse during a tour.
- The on-site museum provides excellent background on the building’s history.
Nearby, Galeries Lafayette is a historic department store known for its stunning Belle Époque glass dome. Don’t miss out on going up to the rooftop terrace. It offers free panoramic views of Paris.
Tips:
- Visit the gourmet food hall for premium French delicacies.
More info: operadeparis.fr and galerieslafayette.com
9. Take a Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a testament to royal extravagance and one of the most iconic landmarks in France. Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, the ornately decorated King’s and Queen’s Apartments, and the vast gardens featuring fountains, sculptures, and groves.
This ticket gives access to the entire estate, including the Palace, the Estate of Trianon, and the Gardens. The price is €32 during high season (April to October) and €24 in the off-season (November to March), making it an incredible value for the grandeur you’ll experience. Whether you visit during the lush summer months or the more tranquil winter season, Versailles offers a timeless glimpse into France’s royal history.
Tips:
- Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on Tuesdays and weekends.
- Rent a bike or golf cart to explore the sprawling gardens.
- Don’t miss the Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet for a glimpse into Marie Antoinette’s private world.
Visitor info: chateauversailles.fr
Practical Travel Tips
- Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass for free entry and skip-the-line access at major attractions: parismuseumpass.fr
- Avoid visiting in August, when many locals leave the city and some businesses close.
- Learn basic French phrases to enhance your experience and interactions.
This guide is here to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Paris, mixing iconic sights with insider tips. Whether it’s your first time in the City of Light or you’re coming back for more, Paris always has something magical waiting to be explored.
Price List (Updated: April 2025)
- Eiffel Tower
- Second floor with lift: €23.10
- Summit with lift: €36.10
- Cheaper with stairs: Prices vary
- Louvre Museum
- Entrance: €22
- Free for youth under 25 years old
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Entrance: Free
- Optional online booking for free access to streamline entrance
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica
- Entrance: Free
- Ticket to the top: €8
- Arc de Triomphe
- Entrance to the top: €21
- Seine River Cruise
- General ticket: €18 (prices may vary depending on the cruise type)
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Entrance: Free
- Palais Garnier
- Entrance: €15
- Palace of Versailles
- Full estate (Palace, Estate of Trianon, and Gardens):
- High season (April to October): €32
- Off season (November to March): €24
- Full estate (Palace, Estate of Trianon, and Gardens):