Top 10 things to do in Paris

Eiffel Tower

Urban Attractions4.7

Completed in 1889 for the World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower was the world's tallest man-made structure until 1930. Its iron lattice design consists of 18,038 separate parts held together by 2.5 million rivets. Some visitors find the most striking view is actually from the Champ de Mars rather than the top.

Worth knowing. Visit early in the morning on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

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.

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.

Jardin du Luxembourg

Natural Wonders4.7

Jardin du Luxembourg, designed in 1612 at the behest of Marie de' Medici, offers 23 hectares of gardens with tree-lined promenades and the historic Medici Fountain. It's a favored spot for chess players by the southwest corner, and boasts a charming puppet theater.

Worth knowing. Find the secluded pétanque areas near the tennis courts for an authentic Parisian experience.

Basilique du Sacré-Cœur

Religious Sites4.7

Completed in 1914 and perched at the highest point in Paris, the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur offers panoramic views across the city. Known for its Romano-Byzantine architecture, the interior features an impressive mosaic of Christ in Majesty, one of the largest in the world. A trip suits architecture lovers and those seeking breathtaking cityscapes.

Worth knowing. For a quieter experience, visit early in the morning before the tourist crowds arrive.

Arc de Triomphe

Cultural & Heritage Sites4.7

The Arc de Triomphe is a monumental arch located in Paris, France, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honor the French army's victories, it stands as a symbol of national pride and historical significance. Its unique feature is the intricate relief sculptures that adorn its surfaces, depicting scenes from French military history and the names of notable battles and generals, along with the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier beneath its archway, which pays tribute to the fallen soldiers of World War I.

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

10:00 AM - 10:30 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.

Grande Pyramide

Urban Attractions4.7

The Grande Pyramide in Paris, built in 1989 by architect I. M. Pei, serves as the Louvre Museum's modern entrance. Composed of 673 glass panes, it stands as a striking contrast to the historic museum complex.

Worth knowing. Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy better lighting for photos.

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Parc du Champ de Mars

Urban Attractions4.6

The Parc du Champ de Mars, laid out in the late 18th century, stretches between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire in Paris. It's known for its long central promenade lined with trees and meticulous flowerbeds, offering a perfect spot for locals and tourists to relax.

Worth knowing. Visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

24 hours

Tuileries Garden

Urban Attractions4.6

The Tuileries Garden, designed by Catherine de' Medici in 1564, transformed from royal grounds to a public park after the French Revolution. Visitors can stroll down gravel paths lined with perfectly manicured lawns and classic sculptures, bridging the Louvre and Place de la Concorde with a green oasis. Its expansive layout offers plenty of seating and spaces ideal for picnics or lazy afternoons.

Worth knowing. Find the quieter sections near the Orangerie with fewer tourists.

More to do in Paris