Known as the most romantic city in the world, Paris is rich in culture, architecture, and elegance. Home to world-renowned art, fashion, and cuisine, the beauty and sophistication of the French capital are unmatched anywhere in the world. Here are our top 10 things to see and do in Paris, France.
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Notre-Dame Cathedral
On a tiny island surrounded by the Seine River in central Paris is one of the world’s most famous cathedrals, Notre Dame. Although the site is still closed to the public following a fire that significantly damaged the building in 2019, visitors can still take in the majestic 14th-century French Gothic architecture.
Be sure to also check out the incredible stained glass of neighboring Sainte Chapelle and the French Revolution-era courthouse and prison known as the Conciergerie.
The Louvre
Once the home to French kings, The Louvre is the world’s largest museum of art and one of the biggest and busiest tourist attractions in Paris. Glimpse the infamous Mona Lisa among nearly 40,000 objects dating as far back as 9,000 years.
Sitting at just under 800,000 square feet, the former royal palace is a sight of its own, including a manicured courtyard and, of course, the landmark glass pyramid that serves as the museum’s main entrance.
Jardin des Tuileries
Jardin des Tuileries is located just next to the Louvre and is the second-largest public park in Paris at 70 acres. Once a private royal garden to the Tuileries Palace, the park was converted into a public space after the French Revolution and is the only remnant of the palace, which was burned down in the late 18th century.
A large Ferris wheel sits at the west end of the garden, at the site of Place de la Concorde, where Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI were executed by guillotines.
Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe
Starting at Place de la Concorde, Champs-Elysées is one of the most famous streets in the world. At just over a mile long, the avenue is dotted with theatres, luxury boutiques, and classic cafes.
The Arc de Triomphe is a stunning arc monument dedicated to the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars and contains a small museum. Visitors can also climb up to the rooftop terrace and take in one of the best 360-degree views of Paris.
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the universal symbol of Paris and one of the most iconic structures in the world. Housing 3 levels that visitors can access by stairs and elevators, the 1,000-foot-tall monument offers the highest publicly available observation deck in the European Union.
If you plan to climb up the tower, we recommend booking tickets as far in advance as possible to avoid spending half a day waiting in line.
Versailles
A visit to the Palace of Versailles is well worth the drive to the western outskirts of Paris. The 17th-century chateau is a magnificent showcase of royal wealth and extravagance, acting as a seat for the pre-Revolution French government as well as a summer home for Napoleon Bonaparte.
In addition to the luxurious architecture and manicured gardens, Versailles also houses a museum of French history.
Montmartre
Montmartre is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris, making it a popular destination for tourists to explore French culture.
The winding cobblestone roads are filled with quaint cafes, bistros, and colorful heritage buildings that make the perfect backdrop for romantic moments.
Montmartre is also home to Sacre-Coeur, one of the most beautiful basilicas in France.
Sacré-Coeur
Sacré-Coeur Basilica sits at the top of a hill overlooking the village of Montmartre. Known as the second most visited monument in Paris and offering highly rated tours, the basilica contains a rich political and cultural history dating back to the late 19th century.
Visitors can sit on the steps or climb up to the top of the ivory dome to get an ideal vantage point to watch the sunset below the city horizon.
Paris Cafes and Bistros
Parisians are famous for their conviviality and taking long leisurely lunch breaks. In fact, it is customary to stop working between the hours of 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. to enjoy a social déjeuner with a glass of wine at a local bistro before returning to the office.
You can also watch passersby like a local while enjoying a delicious croissant or pain au chocolat at one of the countless authentic Parisian cafes. Note that most outdoor cafe seating faces the street to accommodate people-watching.
Seine River Cruise
For the ultimate experience of Parisian romance, nothing compares to a Seine River cruise at twilight. Sail by landmarks while enjoying a glass of champagne, as the twinkling lights reflect off the water.
Multiple tour operators offer river cruises at all times of day, with various offerings such as meals, live music, and access to various attractions.
All photos were sourced from Pixabay and Unsplash