Top 10 things to do in Paris

Are you planning a visit to the capital city of France ? Here is a selection of the best things to do in Paris. Whether you are planning to stay for a day or a week, you just can't leave the City of Lights without having experienced these 10 ultimate must-sees and must-dos!

1) Climb up the Eiffel Tower

When you arrive in Paris, it splits the sky with its immensity. The Eiffel Tower, the symbol of France, is visible from all sides. Standing 324 meters tall, this puddled iron tower has dominated the landscape since 1889, at the time of the Universal Exhibition.

Its construction, which took 2 years, 2 months and 5 days, was a true technical and architectural feat. Meant to last only 20 years, it was saved by its immense popular success and Gustave Eiffel's scientific experiments. Indeed, its creator proposed using it as an antenna for the first radio transmissions. Although highly controversial at the time of its construction, this masterpiece eventually won the hearts of even the most skeptical. Today, it is the stage for numerous international events.

The thrills begin as soon as you climb the monument. Every year, some 7 million visitors climb the tower's three floors. From the top, Paris offers a panorama well worth the detour. The higher you go, the more the city reveals itself: monuments are revealed, cars swarm and landscapes change.

Every evening, the Eiffel Tower sparkles. To continue enjoying this magical setting overlooking the City of Light, you can sample gourmet dishes at one of the Tower's restaurants, Madame Brasserie on the first level and Jules Verne on the second, or choose to treat yourself to a glass at the champagne bar at the top.

Eiffel Tower: Champ de Mars, 5 avenue Anatole France. Open daily from 9.30am to 11pm and from 9am to midnight in summer.

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Check out our tours to the Eiffel Tower: click here to discover our Eiffel Tower tours

2) Take a cruise on the Seine

Typical, elegant boats offer cruises to discover the City of Light in a different way. Once aboard, gliding peacefully between monuments and buildings as the water flows by, you can enjoy a stroll along the Seine.

The Seine has always been at the heart of Paris. Geographically, it is the capital's central axis, a consequence of the role it has played in the city's history. Seen from the outset as a major territorial and economic asset, the river has accompanied the growth of Paris. Evidence of this rich past can be found throughout the city.

The bay windows allow you to take full advantage of the view of the Seine and its banks. In an atmosphere of daydreams, the boat is the ideal place to share a moment with loved ones. It can even be the perfect setting for declaring or reaffirming your love for your loved one.
There are many day and night cruises on the Seine to discover.

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A variety of daytime and nighttime cruises on the Seine are available -- and ready to be discovered! Discover our Seine River Cruises Tours

3) Take a bus tour of Paris

Take an air-conditioned panoramic bus tour of the City of Light to discover its history and major monuments, while enjoying the comfort of audio-guided commentary. Admire the Place Vendôme, Paris Opera House, Pantheon, Luxembourg, Musée d'Orsay, Place de la Concorde, Champs-Elysées, Arc de Triomphe or Invalides.

Paris invites its visitors to enjoy a day or night out with their loved ones. Many Paris City Tours are available.

With Paris City Vision

The Eiffel Tower/Tour of Paris/Cruise on the Seine visit is an interesting option that guarantees you won’t pass up Paris’s top tourist attractions. Climbing the Eiffel Tower, navigating on the Seine’s waters and relaxing during a luxury bus tour are all ways to take full advantage of Paris and its splendor. This package deal also provides special skip the line tickets that save you precious time. Discover it now!

4) Enjoy Paris by night with the Moulin Rouge

 

The Moulin Rouge is the number 1 show in Paris, if not all of Europe. For 126 years, France's most legendary cabaret has welcomed millions of spectators, who have come to admire the famous French Cancan.

The Moulin Rouge is a favorite venue for artists from all over the world. Mistinguett, Edith Piaf, Jean Gabin, Franck Sinatra, Liza Minnelli... The world's most famous cabaret was immortalized by the famous painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, whose posters and paintings brought the Moulin Rouge rapid international fame.

The lights go down, the curtain goes up... The entire troupe takes to the stage, and from that moment on, spectators are intoxicated by the beauty of the Doriss Girls and Doriss Dancers. The 80 artists, recruited from all over the world, adorn themselves in their 1,000 costumes of feathers, rhinestones and sequins made by the finest Parisian ateliers. The show features sumptuous sets in shimmering colors and unique designs by Italian artists. It's time to witness some exceptional acts, and even the return of the Giant Aquarium, set to intoxicating original music. And don't forget the famous leg-lifting of the most beautiful girls in the world!

Moulin Rouge: 82 boulevard de Clichy. Two evening shows at 9pm and 11pm.

With Paris City Vision

 

Are you doing a stopover in Paris? Make the most out of our City Tour and Moulin Rouge show with Champagne. You'll start by discovering the City of Light and its must-see sites, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées avenue, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pont Neuf, the Petit and Grand Palais, the Opera House, Montmartre and more. You can then enjoy an unforgettable evening in the world's most famous cabaret, accompanied by a glass of Champagne. And to round off the evening, we'll take you back to your hotel or apartment.

5) Admire the Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral

Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. Launched at the instigation of Bishop Maurice de Sully, its construction spanned more than two centuries, from the early 11th to the first half of the 14th century. Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral has witnessed a number of major events, including the arrival of the Holy Crown in 1239, Joan of Arc's rehabilitation trial in 1456 and the coronation of Napoleon I in 1804.

The monument is famous for its sublime balance, but if you look closely, you'll see various minor asymmetrical elements introduced to avoid monotony, in keeping with classical Gothic practice.

Its spectacular rose windows, treasure trove of precious objects and magnificent bell towers are the symbols of this masterpiece, which was unfortunately damaged by a gigantic fire on April 15, 2019. Prior to this date, a visit to the towers provided access to the Galerie des Chimères, before continuing the ascent to the top of the South Tower and coming face-to-face with frightening gargoyles while enjoying a breathtaking view of Paris.

 

With over twenty million visitors a year, the cathedral was the most visited free monument in Paris and the whole of Europe. Let's hope its restoration will soon enable us to enjoy its beauty once again. 

Notre-Dame: 6 parvis Notre-Dame, place Jean-Paul II.

6) Visit Montmartre and the Sacré Coeur Basilica

 

The highest point in Paris, the Butte Montmartre is famous for its Sacré Coeur Basilica and its panoramic view over Paris. You can discover the basilica's Byzantine and Romanesque character while enjoying the scenery.

Then stop off at the lively Place du Tertre, where numerous painters, portraitists and caricaturists paint and exhibit their work. Renoir and Van Gogh, among others, decided to settle here.

After the "classic" visit, take the time to discover the more confidential corners and enjoy the district to the full. Montmartre is also a cultural and gastronomic district with authentic charm. Steep alleyways lead to ivy-covered houses and staircases lead to pretty little cobbled squares: that's Montmartre's charm. Stroll through the picturesque streets, past the romantic allée des Brouillards, and on to the Place de Clichy, where you'll discover a wealth of architectural treasures.

Montmartre: 18th arrondissement, also known as "arrondissement des Buttes-Montmartre".

7) Visit the Louvre museum

The glass pyramid in the Cour Napoléon quickly became the museum's landmark. The surrounding 13th-century fortress built by Philippe Auguste was remodeled to become a royal residence for several centuries. In 1793, the first national museum, the Muséum Central des Arts, opened within its walls. Year after year, the collections expanded and gradually took over the palace.

Today, the immensity of the Louvre is striking: it is estimated that it would take nine months to see all its works one by one. It is one of the largest museums in the world, with an exhibition area of 73,000 m², where 38,000 of the 460,000 works in the museum are on public display.

The exceptionally rich collection is divided into 8 departments: Oriental Antiquities; Egyptian Antiquities; Greek, Etruscan and Roman Antiquities; Islamic Arts; Works of Art; Sculptures; Paintings and Graphic Arts.

Don't want to miss out on the Louvre's masterpieces? The Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace are among the most popular. Among the most famous pieces are the Crouching Scribe, the Code of Hammurabi, the head of a female statue of the "idols with crossed arms" type, the diamond known as "Le Régent" and the remarkable Egyptian collection.

 

Le Louvre: 99, rue de Rivoli. Daily 9am-6pm except Tuesdays (late-night opening until 9:45 pm on Wednesdays and Fridays).

With Paris City Vision

By signing up for our Skip-the-line Guided Tour of the Louvre Museum, you’ll be able to discover all the gems of the most famous museum in the World on a guided bus tour.

8) Enjoy a romantic dinner on the Seine

What could be more romantic than dinner on the water in the city of eternal love? Sailing between Parisian monuments and buildings at sunset, it's the ideal setting for a delicious moment for two. Paris is Charles Aznavour's Montmartre with La Bohème, Joe Dassin's Luxembourg Gardens or Edith Piaf's L'Hymne à l'amour. For a romantic getaway, savor fine, refined food along the water's edge with a glass of Champagne in hand.

Why not make the most of this enchanting evening under the Parisian lights to remind your loved one just how much you appreciate the moments spent by his or her side?

With Paris City Vision

Enjoy a romantic La Marina Dinner Cruise with rose petals, a gourmet dinner with Champagne and, for dessert, a "chocolate heart" to share.

We also offer a range of dinner cruises during the festive season to celebrate New Year's Eve in Paris.

9)Strolling through the heart of Paris

To discover the hidden treasures of Paris, it's essential to take a stroll through the heart of the city. Wherever you see the image of the Iron Lady, did you know that she is well surrounded? Some of the capital's mythical jewels lie right at her feet.

For an unobstructed view of the Iron Lady, pack a ham and butter and a bottle of wine for a French-style picnic in the Parc du Champ de Mars, or opposite, in the Trocadero gardens.

Not far away, the Musée du Quai-Branly is housed in a building designed by Jean Nouvel. Dedicated to the arts and civilizations of Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Americas, it features 4,000 masterpieces from every continent.

Behind the Eiffel Tower is the Hôtel des Invalides. Its construction was ordered by Louis XIV to house the invalids of his armies. The Hôtel des Invalides complex includes the great Dome Church, with the tomb of Napoleon I, and the thought-provoking Musée de l'Armée.

Continue on your way. A stay in Paris is not complete without a stroll along the world's most beautiful avenue, lined with luxury shops, international chains, cafés and cinemas, with the iconic Arc de Triomphe at its center.

Or venture further afield to experience the authenticity of the city and its people, and enjoy a croissant on a café terrace.

Discover the Marais

Last but not least, a stroll through Paris inevitably includes the Marais, a historic district on the right bank that has become hyper-trendy. Teeming with good addresses, whether you're a lover of art, food or shopping. HQ of the Parisian "bobos", the Jewish population and the gay community have given a strong character to "Old Paris". Day and night, its cobbled streets are constantly trodden by tourists, Parisians and locals alike. The success of the Marais district has driven up real estate prices, but without detracting from its typical charm.

Getting lost in its streets means discovering non-Haussmannian architecture, admiring 17th-century townhouses, smelling falafel and old-fashioned books, observing the work of artists and young designers, enjoying a cocktail in a trendy bar... In short, it's a concentration of all that the capital has to offer for all your senses, a melting pot of pleasures that can't be felt, and that are better immortalized in your memories than on a postcard or a camera.

10)Visit the Opera Garnier

 

Apollo still brandishes his golden lyre from the top of the Palais Garnier. The different volumes that follow one another each have a precise function, dramatizing the exit to the show.

This neo-classical masterpiece was designed by architect Charles Garnier and inaugurated in 1875 as the "new opera house" in the Haussmann-style Paris of the late Second Empire. It fascinated its contemporaries with its rich, eclectic and audacious architectural and decorative plan. The architect surrounded himself with France's finest craftsmen, as well as the greatest painters and sculptors of his day. For the first time in France, Charles Garnier used decorative mosaics to decorate the vaults of the gallery leading to the grand foyer. From then on, this masterpiece became the grandest of Italian theaters.

 

If you're interested, ballets, operas, concerts and recitals at the Opéra Garnier aren't necessarily overpriced.

Opéra Garnier: 8 rue Scribe. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (6 p.m. on summer days).

With Paris City Vision

A guided walking tour of Paris, from the Palais Royal to the Opéra Garnier, can take you past the Opéra Garnier to unusual places such as secret Parisian passages or the panoramic view of Paris from the rooftops of Galeries Lafayette.

Bonus : Have a break in the Père Lachaise

However surprising it may be, there are interesting things to discover everywhere, even in a cemetery. The Père Lachaise cemetery is a landmark steeped in history, culture and beauty. Located in the heart of Paris, this cemetery is much more than just a place of eternal rest for the dead; it's a veritable open-air museum, where each grave tells a fascinating story.

As you stroll through the shady alleys and winding paths, you'll discover the graves of such illustrious figures as Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf and Frédéric Chopin. Each funerary monument is a work of art in its own right, reflecting the life and legacy of those who rest there.

In addition to its famous residents, Père Lachaise also offers a peaceful, serene atmosphere conducive to contemplation and reflection. You'll be enveloped by the tranquility of the area, far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Whether you're a history buff, an art lover or simply looking for a moment of calm and contemplation, the Père Lachaise cemetery will captivate you. Every corner holds hidden treasures and surprising anecdotes, ready to be discovered.

We invite you to lose yourself in this jewel of Paris, where the past blends harmoniously with the present, and where the memory of the dead lives on through the centuries. Come and explore the Père Lachaise cemetery and let its unique, spellbinding atmosphere soak you in.

Special mention:

Spend a magical day at Disneyland Paris !

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All you have to think about is having fun! Book your Disneyland Paris ticket with transport.

Part from these Top 10 things to do in Paris, the capital city has many more places to offer! The Jardin du Luxembourg, the Tuileries Garden, the Musée d’Orsay, the Arc de Triomphe, the bridges and many more places are waiting for your visit, so book your trip to the capital city to discover them all!