Every corner of the French capital brims with art, history, style, and culinary delights. Deciding what to see and do first is nearly impossible for a visitor. The city's tapestry of grand boulevards, intimate cafés, and world-class museums could fill a lifetime of exploration. To get you started, here are 20 must-see attractions and experiences a first-time visitor should not miss.
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Marvel at the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is not merely a symbol of Paris—it's the emblem of France itself. Erected in 1889 for the World's Fair by Gustave Eiffel, this iron lattice tower was initially criticized for its unconventional design. Today, it stands as one of the world's most visited monuments. Ascending the tower provides a sweeping panorama of the city, revealing the River Seine's gentle curve, the symmetrical layout of the Champ de Mars, and the grand boulevards radiating through the landscape.
Visit in the late afternoon and stay until evening to witness the tower's nightly light show—a sparkling spectacle every hour between 8 pm and 1 am. Enjoy a meal at one of its restaurants, Le Jules Verne, for haute cuisine or more casual fare at the 58 Tour Eiffel. The experience is as romantic as it is iconic.
Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris
Website: www.toureiffel.paris
Nearest Metro: Bir-Hakeim (Line 6) or Trocadéro (Line 9)
Stroll Down the Champs-Élysées
The world's most beautiful avenue, the Champs-Élysées stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the majestic Arc de Triomphe. Since the 19th century, this boulevard has been synonymous with elegance, luxury, and the vibrancy of Parisian life. Window-shopping its high-end boutiques, sipping coffee at historic cafés, and feeling the hum of the city at all hours is a quintessential Paris experience.
Start your stroll at Place de la Concorde to see the ancient Egyptian obelisk. On your way towards the Arc de Triomphe, stop by Ladurée for their famous macarons and explore the flagship stores of luxury brands like Louis Vuitton. In the evening, catch a movie at one of the grand cinemas or book a table at a fine dining restaurant, soaking up the boulevard's illuminated splendour.
Address: Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris
Website: www.champselysees-paris.com
Nearest Metro: Charles de Gaulle–Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6, RER A)
Admire Art at the Louvre
Housed in a former royal palace, the Louvre is the world's largest and arguably most famous art museum. Its galleries contain over 35,000 works spanning centuries and civilizations. From Mesopotamian statues to the Italian Renaissance and French Romanticism, the Louvre's collection is so vast that you could spend weeks exploring it. The glass pyramid in the courtyard, designed by I.M. Pei, has become a modern icon and a testament to the Louvre's blend of old and new.
Make sure to pre-book tickets to avoid long lines. Start with the Denon wing to see the Mona Lisa and the Raft of the Medusa, then move on to the Sully and Richelieu wings for a mix of sculptures, antiquities, and decorative arts. Consider a guided tour for insights into the museum's highlights, or opt for an audio guide if you prefer a more flexible pace.
Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Website: www.louvre.fr
Nearest Metro: Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre (Lines 1, 7)
Discover Notre-Dame Cathedral
After being closed for restoration following the devastating 2019 fire, Notre-Dame Cathedral reopened its doors in December 2024, reclaiming its place as one of the world's most beloved landmarks. This Gothic masterpiece, built between the 12th and 14th centuries, has witnessed centuries of French history—from royal ceremonies to Napoleon's coronation. Restored to its former glory, the cathedral's breathtaking interior, stunning stained-glass windows, and iconic twin towers now welcome visitors once again.
Begin your visit by admiring the restored façade, with its intricate carvings and gargoyles. Inside, marvel at the soaring vaulted ceilings, vibrant rose windows, and the newly restored organ. After exploring the cathedral, visit the nearby Crypte Archéologique to learn about Paris's ancient Roman roots, and take a leisurely stroll along the Seine's banks to soak up the historic ambience of Île de la Cité.
Please remember that access to Notre Dame Cathedral is strictly limited to those with free reservations or invitations.
Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame–Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
Website: www.notredamedeparis.fr
Nearest Metro: Cité (Line 4)
Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Once home to Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec, Montmartre was the bohemian soul of Paris in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, you can still feel the artistic energy in its winding cobblestone streets, hidden gardens, and terrace cafés. Overlooking the city from its highest natural point stands the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a dazzling white monument both a place of worship and a vantage point for unrivalled views.
Climb the hillside streets or take the funicular up to Sacré-Cœur's steps. Admire the basilica's intricate mosaics inside, then meander through Place du Tertre, where street artists and portraitists display their work. Stop at a local café for a crème brûlée, visit the Musée de Montmartre to learn about the area's art history, and experience the lively nightlife near the Moulin Rouge, just downhill.
Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris
Website: www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com
Nearest Metro: Anvers (Line 2)
Cruise on the Seine
The River Seine is Paris's lifeblood, a gentle waterway that has shaped the city's geography and soul. Gliding along its surface, you'll understand why Paris is often called a "floating city of dreams." A boat cruise offers a front-row seat to iconic landmarks—the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame—passing under ornate bridges that connect centuries of history.
Many companies operate day and evening cruises. For a leisurely introduction, choose a sightseeing cruise with commentary to learn about the monuments you pass. For something more romantic, book a dinner cruise and watch the city lights shimmer on the water. Consider a hop-on, hop-off Batobus pass if you want flexible travel between key attractions.
Address: Various departure points along the Seine
Website: www.bateauxparisiens.com
Nearest Metro: Pont de l’Alma (RER C)
Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
Commissioned by Marie de' Medici in the early 17th century, the Luxembourg Gardens are a peaceful haven in the heart of the Left Bank. Tended lawns, flowerbeds, and leafy chestnut trees encircle the Luxembourg Palace, now home to the French Senate. This is where Parisians come to read, jog, play tennis, or sail toy boats in the pond, making it a perfect spot to soak up local life.
Wander the manicured gardens and admire the statues scattered throughout. Visit the Musée du Luxembourg for rotating art exhibits, or simply find a green metal chair by the pond and watch the world go by. On weekends, you might catch free musical performances. Pack a picnic with fresh baguettes and cheese from a nearby market and enjoy a leisurely afternoon under the Parisian sun.
Address: Rue de Médicis–Rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris
Website: www.senat.fr/visite/jardin
Nearest Metro: Odéon (Lines 4, 10)
Shop at Galeries Lafayette
Opened in 1894, Galeries Lafayette is a temple of retail and a showcase of French elegance. Its Belle Époque dome, adorned with stained glass, is a work of art, making shopping here a visually stunning experience. Whether browsing luxury fashion, cosmetics, or gourmet groceries, you'll find something inspiring at every turn.
Start at the ground floor to admire the magnificent dome, then browse through floors dedicated to designer wear, shoes, and accessories. Don't miss the gourmet food hall for high-quality French delicacies. After you've shopped to your heart's content, head to the rooftop terrace for one of the most underrated free views of Paris's skyline.
Address: 40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris
Website: www.galerieslafayette.com
Nearest Metro: Chaussée d’Antin–La Fayette (Lines 7, 9)
Visit Sainte-Chapelle
Built in the mid-13th century by King Louis IX, Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic gem known for its resplendent stained-glass windows. The chapel's soaring arches and kaleidoscopic panes—over 1,100—tell biblical stories that glow brightly when sunlight streams through. It's a quiet, contemplative spot that feels removed from the bustle outside.
Arrive early or reserve tickets online to minimize wait times. When inside, take your time examining the details in the stained glass. Climb the spiral staircase to the upper chapel, where you can fully appreciate the 15-meter-high windows. Combine your visit with a stop at the nearby Conciergerie to delve deeper into medieval and Revolutionary-era Paris.
Address: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
Website: www.sainte-chapelle.fr
Nearest Metro: Cité (Line 4)
Walk Along the Marais
The Marais has transformed into one of Paris's trendiest neighbourhoods with its medieval winding streets and aristocratic mansions. Historically a Jewish quarter, it's now a hub for art galleries and chic boutiques. The district's fusion of old and new creates a lively atmosphere perfect for strolling and people-watching.
Begin at the Place des Vosges, Paris's oldest planned square, to admire its harmonious 17th-century architecture. Explore the Jewish bakeries on Rue des Rosiers and taste a falafel from the famous L'As du Fallafel. Discover emerging designers in small shops, visit the Musée Picasso, and pop into contemporary art galleries to embrace the Marais's eclectic energy.
Website: www.parisinfo.com
Nearest Metro: Saint-Paul (Line 1)
Visit the Musée d’Orsay
Housed in a grand Beaux-Arts railway station built for the 1900 World's Fair, the Musée d'Orsay champions 19th and early 20th-century art. Inside, you'll find Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Degas, Renoir, and Van Gogh, as well as sculptures and decorative arts that capture the spirit of a transformative era.
Head straight to the fifth floor for the Impressionist gallery, where you'll see the world through pastel colours and dappled brushstrokes. Marvel at Van Gogh's Starry Night Over the Rhône and Manet's Luncheon on the Grass. After exploring the collections, relax in the museum's café behind the station's original clock face, and don't forget to step onto the outdoor terrace for views over the Seine.
Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris
Website: www.musee-orsay.fr
Nearest Metro: Solférino (Line 12)
Explore the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter takes its name from the Latin language, taught in the Middle Ages at many schools in the district. It has long been the city's intellectual and literary centre. Philosophers, writers, and artists have gathered here for centuries. Its bustling streets are dotted with old bookstores, student cafés, and lively bistros, creating a youthful and scholarly ambience.
Wander down Rue de la Huchette and Rue Mouffetard for a taste of old Paris, stop by Shakespeare & Company bookstore in Rue de la Bûcherie for literary inspiration, and have lunch at a student-friendly café. Visit the Panthéon to pay homage to France's greatest minds, and end your day at the Jardin du Luxembourg, where professors and students alike come to relax and debate.
Website: www.parisinfo.com
Nearest Metro: Cluny–La Sorbonne (Line 10)
See Paris from the Panthéon
Originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the Panthéon became a secular mausoleum honouring France's notable citizens. This monumental neoclassical building exudes grandeur and intellectual prestige. Under its soaring dome lie the tombs of Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie. Climbing to its dome offers an exhilarating panoramic view of Paris.
Admire the interior frescoes and the colossal Foucault pendulum. Pay respects to the great minds buried in the crypt. In the summer, take the stairs up the dome for a view that stretches from the Eiffel Tower to Notre-Dame's silhouette. Visiting on a clear day ensures unparalleled photo opportunities of the city below.
Address: Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris
Website: www.paris-pantheon.fr
Nearest Metro: Cardinal Lemoine (Line 10)
Indulge in French Pastries
Paris's patisseries are temples of sweetness and refinement. Every neighbourhood boasts bakeries serving flaky, buttery croissants, delicate mille-feuilles, and jewel-like macarons in myriad flavours. French pastry-making is an art form passed down through generations, delighting visitors with creativity and precision.
Head to Pierre Hermé for innovative flavour combinations or Ladurée for classic macarons. Try a pain au chocolat at your nearest boulangerie in the morning or savour a tarte au citron after lunch. Pair these indulgences with a rich espresso while people watch at a sidewalk café. Don't stop experimenting—Paris's pastry landscape is as endless as delicious.
Tour the Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier is an architectural masterpiece of the Second Empire and a beacon of Paris's cultural life. Its golden foyer, velvet seats, and grand staircase inspired the setting of Gaston Leroux's "The Phantom of the Opera." Even if you don't catch a ballet or opera, a guided tour allows you to enter a world of opulence and artistic grandeur.
Join a guided tour to learn about the building's history, admire the Marc Chagall-painted ceiling in the auditorium, and explore the elegant foyers and galleries. Pause in the Grand Foyer to imagine the society balls and soirées that once occurred here. If time permits, book a performance ticket for a truly unforgettable night of music and drama.
Address: 8 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris
Website: www.operadeparis.fr
Nearest Metro: Opéra (Lines 3, 7, 8)
Experience the Catacombs of Paris
Hidden 20 meters beneath the city streets, the Catacombs hold the remains of over six million Parisians, transferred here in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Far from morbid curiosity alone, a visit to the Catacombs reveals a historical solution to overcrowded cemeteries and offers insight into the city's layered past. It's a silent, humbling reminder of the fragility of life.
Book tickets online to skip long queues. Regardless of the season, dress for the cool underground. As you walk the dimly lit tunnels lined with arranged bones, read the inscriptions and reflect on the centuries of human history that rest here. It's a unique experience best approached with respect and an open mind.
Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris
Website: www.catacombes.paris.fr
Nearest Metro: Denfert-Rochereau (Lines 4, 6, RER B)
Relax at Canal Saint-Martin
In contrast to the grandeur of central Paris, the Canal Saint-Martin area offers a laid-back, trendy scene. Originally built in the early 19th century to supply the city with fresh water, the canal is now a haven for bohemian boutiques, artsy bars, and locals enjoying wine and conversation by the water. It's a perfect spot for a slow-paced afternoon.
Stroll along the canal's towpaths, stopping at cafés that spill out onto the sidewalks. Pack a picnic of fresh bread, cheese, and charcuterie from a nearby market and find a spot to sit by the water. If you fancy a bit of romance, take a canal boat trip through the locks. Evenings often see groups of friends chatting, drinking wine, and listening to music along the canal's banks.
Address: Quai de Jemmapes and Quai de Valmy, 75010 Paris
Website: www.parisinfo.com
Nearest Metro: République (Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11)
Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery
Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest cemetery in Paris and a cultural institution. Its winding cobblestone pathways, leafy trees, and moss-covered tombstones create a serene and contemplative atmosphere. This is the final resting place of legendary figures like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf, making it a pilgrimage site for fans and historians alike.
Log on to the interactive map to find the graves of your favourite historical icons. Pause to admire the ornate mausoleums and the variety of funerary art. The site is best visited in spring or autumn when the trees add seasonal colour. Respect the site's sanctity and take your time wandering through its peaceful alleys.
Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris
Website: www.paris.fr/perelachaise
Nearest Metro: Père Lachaise (Lines 2, 3)
Picnic at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, created under Napoleon III in 1867, brings a rugged, romantic landscape to the northeast corner of Paris. Featuring cliffs, waterfalls, a lake, and even a suspension bridge, this park contrasts sharply with the formal gardens elsewhere in the city. It's a beloved local haunt, far less touristy than the central hotspots.
Pack a picnic and find a hillside spot with views over the city. Visit the Temple de la Sybille perched atop a rocky cliff for a cinematic panorama. Joggers, dog-walkers, and families frequent Buttes-Chaumont, making it a great place to feel like part of everyday Parisian life. If you have children, there are playgrounds and carousels to keep them entertained.
Read more about The Best Spots for Sunday Picnics in Paris
Address: 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris
Website: www.paris.fr
Nearest Metro: Buttes Chaumont (Line 7bis)
See Paris at Night from Montparnasse Tower
The Montparnasse Tower might not be as storied as the Eiffel Tower, but its observation deck provides one of the most complete views of the city. Built in the 1970s, the tower may lack historical charm, but ascend to the top and you'll be rewarded with a stunning 360-degree perspective—especially magical at night, when the city's lights are spread out before you like twinkling jewels.
Take the elevator to the 56th-floor observation deck and climb a few more steps to the rooftop terrace. Use the telescopes to spot the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and beyond there. For photographers, this is a fantastic vantage point to capture Paris's illuminated landmarks without the crowds you'd find elsewhere.
Address: 33 Avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris
Website: www.tourmontparnasse56.com
Nearest Metro: Montparnasse-Bienvenüe (Lines 4, 6, 12, 13)
Getting Around Paris: Practical Travel Tips
Paris is best experienced on foot, but its sprawling size and numerous attractions mean you'll also need to rely on public transport. Thankfully, Paris boasts an efficient, well-connected transportation network, making it easy to navigate the city. Whether you prefer the Metro, buses, or bicycles, this guide will help you travel around Paris like a pro.
The Paris Métro
The Paris Métro is the backbone of the city's transport system, offering 16 lines and nearly 300 stations that crisscross the city. It's fast, reliable, and a quintessential Parisian experience in itself.
You can purchase a rechargeable Navigo Easy card or single-use tickets from machines at any station. Fares are generally inexpensive, and there are options for daily, weekly, or monthly passes. The lines are numbered, colour-coded, and well-signposted, so navigating is straightforward.
Keep your ticket until you exit the station to avoid fines during random inspections.
RER Trains
For trips to the suburbs or major landmarks like Versailles or Disneyland Paris, the RER (Réseau Express Régional) trains are the best option. They run on five main lines (A through E) and integrate seamlessly with the Métro.
RER tickets are zone-based, so check the fare for your destination. Within central Paris (Zones 1–2), Métro tickets are valid on the RER.
Buses
Parisian buses offer a more scenic way to get around, allowing you to enjoy the city's architecture as you travel. With over 60 routes, buses can take you to areas not served by the Métro.
Tickets are the same as for the Métro, but remember to validate them upon boarding. Routes and stops are displayed at every bus shelter, and apps like Citymapper make planning bus trips easy.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing
While taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber are widely available, they can be expensive compared to public transport.
Taxi stands are located throughout the city, or you can hail one on the street if its rooftop light is green. Keep in mind that many French addresses can be difficult for a foreigner not familiar with the French language to pronounce correctly, so having your destination written down can be helpful.
Practical Travel Tips
Currency
Paris uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash for small purchases at local markets or bakeries is a good idea. ATMs are plentiful.
Tipping
Tipping in Paris is less customary than in some countries, as your bill usually includes service charges. However, rounding up or leaving a small tip (5–10%) is appreciated for excellent service.
Drinking Water
Paris has over 1,000 free water fountains, including sparkling water options! Bring a reusable bottle and refill it as you explore.
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