The best things to do in Paris

There are lots of things to see and do in the French capital. From famous landmarks and iconic museums to experiencing elegance in traditional Parisian restaurants, we don't blame you if you feel spoilt for choice.

Use this guide to discover some of the city's must-see attractions and lesser-known spots you'll remember for a lifetime. Spend less time planning and more looking forward to your upcoming city break!

Let’s cover off some of the most popular attractions in Paris. Try to make time for some of these world-famous French landmarks:

• The Eiffel Tower
• Arc De Triomphe
• Champs-Élysées
• Notre-Dame
• Sacré-Cœur & Montmarte
• The Louvre
• Disneyland Paris
• Palace of Versailles
• Paris Catacombs
• Musée d'Orsay
• Sainte-Chapelle

Discover a little more about these unique attractions below.

The Eiffel Tower

 

Whether you're planning your first or fiftieth time in Paris, the most famous landmark in France never fails to impress. The structure towers at 1,063 feet, representing the City of Lights with nightly illuminations that are impossible to miss if you're in the area.

If you're heading to the top of the Eiffel Tower, it's best to buy your tickets online to beat the queues and guarantee entry. For a more exclusive experience, book a table at Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne, the haute cuisine restaurant on the tower's second floor.

Check out our guide to visiting the Eiffel Tower for more information.

Arc De Triomphe

 

Another Parisian favourite, the Arc de Triomphe is one of the world's best-known commemorative monuments. This 164-foot Neoclassical archway sits in a circular plaza, Place Charles de Gaulle, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées

Head up to the roof and enjoy spectacular views across the city. There are lots of details to look out for, including decorative sculptures celebrating victories of the French revolution. Read our guide to visiting the Arc de Triomphe for more details.

Champs-Élysées

 

The most famous avenue in Paris, the Champs-Élysées stretches just under two kilometres from the Place de la Concorde to the Place Charles de Gaulle, home of the Arc de Triomphe.

Studded with luxury boutiques and French restaurants, this iconic street is a perfect choice for browsing and shopping alike. Look out for Louis Vuitton, Hermès, and Chanel. Looking for more shopping hotspots in the French capital? Check out our guide about the best places for shopping in Paris.

Notre-Dame

 

The Notre-Dame de Paris, also called Notre-Dame Cathedral, is the most famous gothic monument in the world. Situated in the very heart of the city, Notre-Dame is iconic for its colossal size, architectural majesty, and rich history.

Since a devastating fire in April 2019, Notre-Dame has been closed for restoration. The project should be complete by 2024; until then, a visit to the outside of the cathedral is fascinating. Head to our guide to visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral for more information.

Sacré-Cœur & Montmartre

 

Montmartre has long been a place of worship, home to the Church of Saint Peter, the oldest in Paris, and the Royal Abbey of Montmartre. The Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur was constructed here at the end of the 19th century and remains an inspiring monument today.

Visit Montmartre for beautiful views across the city. You can also explore lively winding streets packed with cafés, bistros, and galleries, and of course, a trip to the picturesque basilica. Check out our guide to visiting the Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre for more information.

The Louvre

 

The world's largest art museum and one of the city's most famous monuments, the ‎Musée du Louvre is home to an unparalleled collection of sculptures, paintings, drawings, and more.

Discover western art from the Middle Ages to 1848 as you explore the grand palace which houses the museum. Once a royal residence, the Louvre spans through many elegant galleries, so you can enjoy the building itself as well as the historical collections inside. Check out our dedicated page to the Louvre Museum.

Disneyland Paris

 

Whether you're visiting with little ones, friends, or a partner, there are few places in the world more magical than Disneyland Paris. Although Disneyland is a bit outside the city centre, it's easy to get there on an RER train, which can take you right to the park gates.

Step into a world that inspires your imagination. From Sleeping Beauty Castle to iconic 'it's a small world', there's something for everyone here. Film fanatic? Head over to Walt Disney Studios Park and see all your favourites come to life. Check out our guide to visiting Disneyland Paris for more information.

Palace of Versailles

 

The breathtaking Palace of Versailles is a true one-of-a-kind, and an absolute must if you're interested in French history, architecture, or art. The monumental size of this once-palace makes it one of the most impressive museums in the world, home to over 60,000 works spanning the Middle Ages up until the late 19th century.

Stroll through perfectly landscaped historical gardens or wander through elegant galleries inside the palace. There's a lot to see here; we recommend getting there early to make the most of your day.

Paris Catacombs

 

The Catacombs of Paris were built in the late 18th century when public health concerns meant moving the city's cemeteries to an underground site. One of the most unusual attractions in Paris, a walk through the Catacombs is a fascinating experience that you're sure to remember for many years to come.

We advise against visiting the Paris Catacombs with young children, people of reduced mobility, or if you're claustrophobic.

Musée d'Orsay

 

The Musée d'Orsay sits inside what was once the Orsay train station on the banks of the Seine. It's impressive even before you step inside! This national museum of fine and applied arts is one of the best in Paris, and well worth a visit during your trip.

Browse bright, sleek galleries and stumble upon Van Gough's Self Portrait and Starry Night over the Rhône, as well as work by Degas, Renoir, and Matisse.

Sainte-Chapelle

 

A royal chapel and another inspiring example of Gothic architecture in Paris, Sainte-Chapelle is a beautiful place to visit for some reflection and uplifting atmosphere.

Look upwards for 1,113 colourful stained-glass windows, a high-vaulted ceiling, and plenty more remarkable features when you visit Sainte-Chappelle. The chapel is so beautiful that it's often compared to a jewellery box inside.

Taking the train to Paris?

You can easily reach Paris by train from within France, as well as other major European cities, thanks to high-speed rail connections.

If you're already in France and heading into Paris, TGV trains offer high-speed routes from Avignon to Paris (2h 41m), Bordeaux to Paris (2h 9m), Lyon to Paris (1h 55m), Marseille to Paris (3h 12m), Nice to Paris (5h 44m) and Strasbourg to Paris (2h 23m).

Some of the most popular international train routes include London to Paris (2h 13m), Amsterdam to Paris (3h 12m), Brussels to Paris (1h 22m), Barcelona to Paris (6h 38m), Zurich to Paris (4h 6m), Munich to Paris (6h 37m) and Stuttgart to Paris (4h 13m).