Paris is that kind of city where the possibilities are as vast as the Seine itself. Amidst its endless array of monuments and museums, sometimes the most rewarding choice is to simply perch on the banks of the river, people-watch from a quaint bistro, or wander aimlessly, letting the day unfold.
That’s the draw to Paris, it effortlessly captivates with its innate beauty. Personally, I’ve done both types of vacations: the checklist-ticking trip, exploring every iconic site and then some, and the laid-back girls’ trip, focused on discovering new restaurants, strolling through cobblestone streets, and exploring hidden vintage and antique markets scattered across the city.
Regardless of your chosen path, Paris ensures an epic adventure. Whether you’re squeezing a weekend escape or planning a leisurely week-long vacation, this guide is your compass to curating the quintessential Parisian holiday.
So, if you’re looking for a Paris travel guide, you’ve stumbled upon the right corner of the internet. Below are the top things to do in Paris, my favorite restaurants, and even a few hidden gems for you to discover.
Short on time? Here are my top hotel picks for Paris:
- Esprit Saint Germain: Saint-Germain, my personal pick and top recommendation.
- Le Pavillon de la Reine: Le Marais, romantic and tucked into Place des Vosges.
- Hôtel Bel Ami: Saint-Germain, chic and understated luxury.
- Hôtel des Grands Hommes: Latin Quarter, classic, across from the Panthéon.
- Le Grand Mazarin: Le Marais, colorful and design-forward.
Key Takeaways
- The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral are the non-negotiables on any Paris bucket list, but book the Louvre and any guided tour in advance to skip the lines.
- A Paris Museum Pass is worth it if you’re planning to hit three or more paid sites (Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Sainte-Chapelle, and more all included).
- Le Marais, the Latin Quarter, and Saint-Germain are the neighborhoods to wander when you want to feel like a local rather than a tourist.
- Père Lachaise Cemetery, the Paris Catacombs, and Canal Saint-Martin are the best things to do if you’ve already covered the greatest hits on a previous visit to Paris.
- Paris makes an easy home base for day trips to the Loire Valley, Mont Saint-Michel, or Disneyland Paris if you have extra time.
Planning Your Visit to Paris, France
Before you dive into sightseeing, it’s worth deciding how you want to move through the city. Paris rewards wandering, but its biggest Paris attractions (the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame) draw serious crowds, so a little planning goes a long way.
If you know you’ll be visiting several paid sites, look into a Paris Museum Pass. It covers entry to the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, the Arc de Triomphe, and dozens of other paris museum options, and it lets you skip the general admission ticket lines (though not always the security lines). For the Louvre specifically, I’d also recommend booking a guided tour at least once. A good guide turns a maze of a museum into something you can actually absorb in two hours instead of wandering for five.
Where to Stay in Paris
Picking the right neighborhood makes a bigger difference in Paris than in almost any other city, since where you sleep shapes how you actually experience your days there. Saint-Germain is my top recommendation, central enough to walk to the Louvre, Luxembourg Garden, and the Latin Quarter, but still full of the tree-lined, low-key charm that makes Paris feel like Paris rather than a theme park.
I stayed at Esprit Saint Germain on my last trip and cannot recommend it enough. It’s a small boutique hotel tucked into the neighborhood, with a genuinely warm, personal feel that a lot of bigger Paris hotels lack, and it puts you within walking distance of some of the best restaurants and cafés in the city. If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Paris and want a home base that feels local rather than touristy, this is it.
Le Marais and the Latin Quarter are both solid runners-up if Saint-Germain is booked up, each with its own version of that same walkable, neighborhood-y feel.
Things to Do in Paris, France
If you’re looking for the perfect Paris itinerary, let this be your guide. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming cobblestone streets of Le Marais, Paris is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered. These are, hands down, the best things to do in Paris.
1. Take in the Views of the Eiffel Tower
Let’s start with the city’s jewel itself—the Eiffel Tower. A Parisian escapade without a visit to this iron beauty just wouldn’t be right. While you can always stand in line to go up the Eiffel Tower, I suggest hitting a few nearby spots to see this monument from a distance so you can take it in for all its glory. Some key photo spots for the Eiffel Tower include:
- Rue de L’universite
- Trocadero
- Pont D’iena
- River Seine
- Avenue de New York
2. Do a Seine River Cruise
If you want to sit back and relax to enjoy the magical views of this city, consider taking a Seine river cruise. This is a great way to see the remarkable views of landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower, beautifully illuminated against the night sky.
3. Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece that withstands the test of time. While it may be under construction due to the fire that happened a few years ago, it is still beautiful to see from the outside.
4. Wander Around the Le Marais Neighborhood
Le Marais, a charming neighborhood with narrow streets and hidden courtyards, is a Parisian paradox. It seamlessly blends medieval architecture with hip boutiques and trendy cafes. Lose yourself in the labyrinth of Le Marais and spend some time getting to know its worn, picturesque streets.
5. Check Out the Moulin Rouge
The Moulin Rouge is the birthplace of cabaret. Whether you just see the theater from the outside or you buy a ticket to see the can-can dancers in action, the Moulin Rouge is an iconic spot that deserves a spot on your Paris bucket list.
6. Spend Hours in the Louvre Museum
Home to the famed Mona Lisa, the Louvre Museum encapsulates some of history’s most prized and well-respected pieces of art. Get lost in the vast halls filled with masterpieces, from Van Gogh to Claude Monet to Pablo Picasso. Pro tip: Beat the crowds by starting your day early. Also be sure to save yourself plenty of time to explore the many halls and exhibits of the Louvre.
7. Walk Through Luxembourg Garden
For a breath of fresh air, head to the Luxembourg Garden. This oasis in the heart of Paris is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a boat ride on the pond, or simply soaking up the sun.
8. Window Shop in Galeries Lafayette
If you love to shop, Galeries Lafayette is a must-spot on your Paris itinerary. Even if your budget doesn’t include a spree, the stunning architecture and beautiful displays are worth the visit.
9. Explore the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter, known for its bohemian atmosphere, is a literary haven. Lose yourself in Shakespeare and Company, an iconic bookstore that has hosted literary greats like Hemingway and Fitzgerald. The cobblestone streets and vibrant cafes add to the artistic charm.
10. Discover Sacre Coeur – A Basilica on the Montmartre Hill
Perched atop Montmartre, Sacre Coeur Basilica offers a breathtaking panorama of Paris. The climb is worth it for the awe-inspiring views and the tranquil atmosphere inside.
11. Take Photos in Front of Arc de Triomphe
Another iconic symbol of Paris and the French revolution is the Arc de Triomphe. If you choose to climb to the top, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city’s grand boulevards radiating in all directions.
12. Explore the Flea Markets of Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
If you’re looking to try something a little different in Paris, I highly suggest coming to Marc aux Puces de Saint-Ouen for a day of thrifting and antique shopping. While these markets are mostly furniture and antique pieces, you can also find some great clothing stalls with vintage Burberry coats, Levi jeans, and lots of other vintage finds.
13. Check Out the Mark Rothko Exhibit at the Louis Vuitton Foundation
If you’re looking to see more artistic work I highly recommend going to the Louis Vuitton Foundation. While I was in Paris, there was a Mark Rothko exhibit, which was a beautiful contrast compared to other more traditional museums around Paris. While we were able to get tickets at the door, I recommend booking ahead of time.
14. Spend Time in the Saint Germain Neighborhood
Another favorite neighborhood of mine is Saint Germain. This is also a great area of Paris to stay in if you want to be centrally located but still be surrounded by Parisian quintessential charm. Known for being an artistic hub, this zone is dotted with beautiful restaurants, art galleries, and welcoming shops.
Best Restaurants in Paris, France
If you’re looking for some of the best places to eat in the city center when visiting Paris, this is the perfect list for you. Below are a few of my favorite restaurants in Paris.
- Chez Janou: This is my all-time favorite restaurant, be sure to reserve ahead of time! Two things you have to order are the duck and the chocolate mousse.
- Le Relais de L’entrocote: This place does not take reservations but is by far one of the most popular spots in all of Paris for steak and frites. I highly recommend coming here 30 minutes before opening if you don’t want to stand in line for an hour or more.
- Le Petit Bouillon Pharamond: Excellent spot if you’re looking for cheap and traditional Parisian food. No reservations required.
- Brasserie Bellanger: I absolutely loved this Parisian restaurant. It offers classic Parisian dishes with a modern twist. It’s great for either lunch or dinner (reserve ahead of time).
- La Buvette: La Buvette is a cute and cozy natural wine bar with small bites.
- Pink Mama: This is one of the most popular spots in Paris to eat at. While I’ve never been, it’s famous for its Italian food and beautiful ambiance.
- Willy’s Wine Bar: This stunning art and wine bar is one of the best places if you’re looking for a romantic date night spot. If you’re looking for a memorable Paris souvenir, pick up one of their unique art posters that decorate their restaurant.
Day Trips from Paris, France
Paris makes an excellent home base if you have extra time and want to see more of France. A few of the best day trip options:
- Loire Valley: Known for its fairytale châteaux and vineyards, this is the classic day trip for history and wine lovers alike.
- Mont Saint-Michel: A striking island abbey off the Normandy coast. It’s a longer day (closer to a full day round trip), but it’s one of the most photographed spots in France for good reason.
- Disneyland Paris: If you’re traveling with kids, or just want a full day of nostalgia, Disneyland Paris is about 40 minutes outside the city by train.
When to Visit Paris
Paris is genuinely lovely nearly year-round. It’s even a great European destination to visit in winter. But if your trip lines up with Bastille Day on July 14th, you’ll catch fireworks at the Eiffel Tower and a military parade down the Champs-Élysées. Just know that hotel prices and crowds spike accordingly.
Paris FAQ
What are the best things to do in Paris for a first-time visitor?
The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and a walk through Le Marais cover the essentials. If you have more time, add the Musée d’Orsay and Sacré Cœur Basilica.
Is the Paris Museum Pass worth it?
If you’re visiting three or more paid sites, yes. It pays for itself quickly and lets you skip most ticket lines.
How many days do you need in Paris?
Three to four days is enough to see the major Paris attractions without rushing. A week gives you room for a day trip or two.
Is Paris walkable, or do I need to plan transport?
Central Paris is very walkable, and the neighborhoods on this list (Le Marais, Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain) are close enough to string together on foot. The metro is fast and easy for anything farther out.
Wrapping Up
There you have it, the top things to do in Paris. Whether you’re museum-hopping, wandering Canal Saint-Martin with a coffee, or working your way through this restaurant list one bistro at a time, Paris is worth every bit of its reputation. It’s called the City of Light for a reason, and it tends to leave people a little in love with it after just one visit.
No Comments