Paris

Rainy day in Paris

Indoor places for when the weather turns.

10 places in Paris, France

The Louvre

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.7

The Louvre, originally a fortress built in the late 12th century, became a royal palace before transforming into the world's most visited museum. Home to the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre offers a labyrinth of galleries showcasing over 35,000 pieces of art that trace the history of civilization. Art lovers and history buffs can spend an entire day navigating its vast halls.

Worth knowing. Enter via the Porte des Lions entrance to avoid the longest queues.

Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Tuesday: Closed | Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Musée d’Orsay

Arts and Entertainment Venues4.8

Housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station built in 1900, the Musée d’Orsay holds the world's largest collection of Impressionist masterpieces. Within its vast halls, visitors are drawn to pieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir in an atmosphere where art meets architectural grandeur.

Worth knowing. Head to the fifth-floor café for a unique view of Paris through the iconic clock face.

Monday: Closed | Tuesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM | Wednesday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM | Thursday: 9:30 AM – 9:45 PM | Friday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM | Saturday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM | Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM

Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris

Religious Sites4.7

Notre-Dame Cathedral, begun in 1163, stands on the Île de la Cité as a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. Visitors are often captivated by its iconic flying buttresses and the 28 statues of the Gallery of Kings which survived the French Revolution.

Worth knowing. View the western facade at dusk when the light enhances its intricate carvings.

Monday: 7:50 AM – 7:00 PM | Tuesday: 7:50 AM – 7:00 PM | Wednesday: 7:50 AM – 7:00 PM | Thursday: 7:50 AM – 10:00 PM | Friday: 7:50 AM – 7:00 PM | Saturday: 8:15 AM – 7:30 PM | Sunday: 8:15 AM – 7:30 PM

Palais Garnier

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.7

Designed by Charles Garnier and completed in 1875, the Palais Garnier stands as a symbol of Parisian elegance with its opulent interiors adorned with marble, frosted ceilings, and the famous 7-ton chandelier.

Worth knowing. Visit the rooftop café for panoramic views of Paris after your tour.

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays

Galeries Lafayette

Luxury and Exclusive Attractions4.5

Galeries Lafayette is a renowned department store in Paris, celebrated for its stunning glass dome and extensive selection of luxury goods. It offers a unique shopping experience alongside breathtaking architecture, making it a must-visit for both tourists and locals alike.

Worth knowing. Head to the rooftop terrace for a spectacular panoramic view of the Paris skyline.

Monday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Thursday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Friday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM | Sunday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Pantheon

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.6

The Pantheon in Paris is a former church and current mausoleum that showcases the illustrious French history through its architecture and notable burials. With its grand dome and stunning neoclassical design, it plays a crucial role in understanding France's cultural heritage. Best visited by history enthusiasts and architecture lovers, it's a landmark that resonates with the spirit of Parisian history.

Worth knowing. Climb to the top for a breathtaking view of the city skyline.

Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Hôtel des Invalides

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.7

Hôtel des Invalides, commissioned by Louis XIV in 1670, was originally a hospital for veterans and now hosts the Army Museum and Napoleon's Tomb under the striking golden dome.

Worth knowing. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, closed on Mondays

Sainte-Chapelle

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.6

Constructed in the 13th century, Sainte-Chapelle is famous for its stunning stained-glass windows, covering over 600 square meters and telling biblical stories. Located within the medieval Palais de la Cité complex, it served as a royal chapel and is a masterpiece of the Gothic style.

Worth knowing. Visit early in the morning for the most intimate experience with the light streaming through the stained glass.

Monday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Thursday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Friday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Saturday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Pompidou Center

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.4

The Pompidou Center is a modern art museum and cultural hub in Paris, famous for its radical architectural design and extensive collection of contemporary art. It stands out not only for its eclectic exhibitions but also for its vibrant public spaces and rooftop views of the Paris skyline. Visitors can immerse themselves in modern creativity and enjoy various art events throughout the year.

Worth knowing. Visit on a Wednesday for fewer crowds and special evening events.

Petit Palais

Urban Attractions4.7

Built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, the Petit Palais is home to an impressive collection of artworks ranging from the Renaissance to the early 20th century. Its Beaux-Arts architecture includes a grandiose colonnaded entrance and a delightful semicircular garden that offers a peaceful retreat. This is particularly suited to art lovers and architecture enthusiasts who appreciate both the exhibits and the setting.

Worth knowing. Seek out the staircase mezzanine for a quieter spot with excellent views of the main galleries.

Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM