Ah Paris, the city of lights and love. There’s just nothing that compares to the beautiful architecture, incredible food and pastries, and endless museums and galleries of Paris. This Travel Guide has the ultimate list of things to do in Paris.
In this guide, you’ll find recommendations on the best activities in Paris, restaurants and bakeries, day trip ideas, how to get around, and more.
Table of Contents
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Paris Key Info
How to Get There
Fly into Charles de Gaulle (CDG) airport or Orly (ORY)
Take the high speed train from London & other cities
Currency
1 Euro (EUR) = ~$1.1 USD
Language
French
How to Get Around
Metro, Uber/Taxi, Bus
Weather
Spring: March to May
Avg. Temp: 45°F to 70°F
(8°C to 20°C)
Summer: June to August
Avg. Temp: 60°F to 80°F
(15°C to 26°C)
Fall: September to November
Avg. Temp: 40°F to 70°F
(6°C to 22°C)
Winter: December to February
Avg. Temp: 35°F to 50°F
(2°C to 10°C)
15 Best Things To Do In Paris
1. Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris would be complete without visiting this iconic highlight of Paris’s skyline. This world-famous monument offers stunning views of the city from its observation decks. You can take the elevator or, if you’re feeling adventurous, climb the stairs for a closer look at its intricate ironwork.
Access: Closest Métro Stations are Bir-Hakeim (Line 6) or Trocadéro (Line 9)
Know Before You Go: Make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines! You’ll get a timed entry slot. All visitors, whether they bought their tickets in advance or want to buy them on site, must undergo two security checks: the first is at the entrance and the second is just before the entrance to take the elevator or stairs. You’ll also want to check the Eiffel Tower bag policy, as there are no storage lockers and you can’t bring large bags to the top. For more information on the Eiffel Tower Bag Policy, tickets, and other important visitor FAQs, visit the official website!
2. Musée du Louvre
The Louvre is the largest art museum in the world and home to some of history’s greatest masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Even if you’re not an art buff, the sheer beauty of the building and its glass pyramid are worth the visit. I also recommend downloading a free audio guide for your smartphone or renting an audioguide from the museum that will take you through the museum’s highlights.
Access: Closest Métro Station is Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1 and 7)
Know Before You Go: Be sure to buy your tickets online to avoid lines. The Louvre can get crowded, particularly during peak seasons. The best times to visit are either early morning right when the museum opens at 9am or late evening. When I visited the Louvre, I made my way straight to the Mona Lisa before the crowds got there, so it wasn’t too busy, and then I visited the rest of the museum. Be sure to also check out our full guide on how to skip the lines at the Louvre!
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral remains one of Paris’ most iconic structures with its beautiful gothic architecture. While it was closed for several years after a fire in 2019, it has now reopened to the public. You can also climb to the top for beautiful views of the city. If you have time, I’d also recommend visiting the nearby Saint Chapelle Cathedral, which has some of the most beautiful stained glass in all of Paris!
Access: Nearest Métro Stations are Cité (Line 4) or Saint-Michel (RER B and Line 4)
4. Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
The Champs-Élysées is Paris’ most famous avenue, lined with luxury shops, theaters, and cafés. It stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the monumental Arc de Triomphe, which you can climb for panoramic views. If you’re a shopping enthusiast, the Champs-Élysées is also home to high-end brands and flagship stores like Louis Vuitton.
Access: Closest Métro Stations are Charles de Gaulle – Étoile (Lines 1, 2, and 6)
Know Before You Go: There are 284 steps to climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, and there is no elevator for the general public. The climb can be strenuous, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a workout!
5. Montmartre and Sacre Cœur
The charming, bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre offers a glimpse of Paris’ artistic soul. Stroll through cobblestone streets and visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica perched atop the hill, and explore the hidden art studios and cafes that once inspired the likes of Picasso and Van Gogh. Montmartre is also home to the famous Moulin Rouge.
Access: Closest Métro Stations are Anvers (Line 2) or Abbesses (Line 12)
Know Before You Go: Montmartre has lots of charm, but it does have a fair amount of pickpockets so be on your guard while visiting Sacré-Cœur and ignore anyone trying to give you a bracelet or sell you something! It’s also fairly hilly so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
6. Palais Garnier
If you’re a fan of performing arts a visit to the Palais Garnier opera house is an absolute must. Designed by architect Charles Garnier, the building is renowned for its grand staircase, lavish chandeliers, and the stunning auditorium featuring a ceiling painted by Marc Chagall. If you have time during your trip, and your dates overlap with the performance season, I’d also recommend getting tickets to see a ballet! You can check ticket availability on the Palais Garnier website.
Access: Nearest Métro Station is Opéra (Lines 3, 7, and 8)
Tip: I’d highly recommend booking a guided tour not only for the depth of information and history you get, but also for access to restricted areas. We watched the tour guides turning away tourists from the main orchestra section since they hadn’t paid for the tour.
7. Musée d’Orsay
If you’re a fan of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, the Musée d’Orsay is a must-visit. Housed in a former railway station, it showcases masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas. Be sure to buy tickets in advance in order to take advantage of timed entry and shorter lines!
Access: Nearest Métro Stations are Solférino (Line 12) or RER C (Musée d’Orsay station)
Know Before You Go: The museum is closed on Mondays, so be sure to plan around opening days and times. You can find the most up to date information on opening hours and bag policies on their official website. Also buy your tickets online to avoid lines as the museum can get crowded, particularly during peak seasons. I recommend booking the earliest morning spot you can.
8. Jardin du Luxembourg
Located in the 6th arrondissement, near the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the Jardin du Luxembourg (or Luxembourg Gardens ) is one of Paris’s most iconic green spaces. At the heart of the gardens is The Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate, the Medici Fountain, beautiful flowerbeds, sculptures and picturesque lawns. The garden can get crowded on weekends, especially in the summer, so visit early for a more peaceful experience.
Access: Closest Métro stations are Odéon and Rennes
9. Jardin du Tuileries
Located between Place de la Concorde and the Louvre Museum in the 1st arrondissement, the Jardin du Tuileries is Paris’s other iconic green space. These historic gardens offer stunning views of landmarks like the Louvre and Arc de Triomphe. I would also recommend stopping by Place de la Concorde nearby and checking out the beautiful fountains.
Access: Closest Métro stations are Concorde and Tuileries
10. Musée de l’Orangerie
Visiting the Musée de l’Orangerie offers a more intimate and focused art experience compared to larger Paris museums like the Louvre. It’s famous for Claude Monet’s Water Lilies, housed in two rooms with a panoramic viewing experience. The museum also features an impressive collection of works by artists like Renoir, Picasso, and Modigliani. It’s a quieter museum, and typically less crowded than the Louvre. In my opinion, this is one of the most underrated museums in Paris!
Access: Closest metro station is Concorde (Lines 1, 8, and 12)
11. Galeries Lafayette
If you’re looking to do some shopping in Paris, Galeries Lafayette is a must visit. It has a huge selection of luxury goods, fashion, cosmetics, and gourmet food. Don’t miss the stunning Art Nouveau dome and the rooftop terrace for breathtaking views of Paris!
Access: Closest metro stations are Chaussée d’Antin – La Fayette (Lines 7 and 9) or Opéra (Lines 3, 7, and 8) or Haussmann – Saint-Lazare (Lines 3, 4, 5, 12, 13, and 14)
Tip: If you are not an EU resident, make sure to get a tax refund service for non-EU visitors. Bring your passport and receipts to claim back VAT on your purchases. For more information on how the VAT tax refund process works visit the official website.
12. Panthéon
Located in the Latin Quarter, the Panthéon is a mausoleum that honors several famous French figures such as Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie. You can also climb to the dome for panoramic views of Paris, but be prepared for a climb of around 300 steps!
Access: Closest metro stations are Cardinal Lemoine (Line 10) or Luxembourg (RER B) or Place Monge (Line 7)
13. Musée Rodin
The Musée Rodin is an amazing art museum located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris that features the works of the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin. Housed in the beautiful Hôtel de Biron, the museum features a stunning collection of Rodin’s masterpieces, including the iconic The Thinker and The Kiss.
Access: Closest metro stations are Varenne (Line 13) and Invalides (Lines 8 and 13)
10. Invalides
The Hôtel des Invalides, located in the heart of Paris’s 7th arrondissement, is a stunning complex that showcases France’s military history. Originally built in the 17th century as a hospital and home for war veterans, it now houses several museums, including the Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum) and the Dôme des Invalides, which contains the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. The Hôtel des Invalides is very close to the Eiffel Tower, so I’d recommend visiting both around the same time if possible!
Access: Closest Métro station is La Tour-Maubourg (Line 8)
15. Paris Catacombs
The Paris Catacombs span over 200 miles, with tunnels that house the remains of approximately six million people, transferred here in the late 18th and early 19th centuries due to overcrowded cemeteries. The most famous section features the inscription “Arrête! C’est ici l’empire de la mort” (“Stop! This is the empire of death”), setting the tone for a haunting experience for visitors.
Access: Closest Métro station is Denfert-Rochereau (Lines 4 and 6)
Know before you go: Be prepared for a journey involving stairs and uneven terrain, as accessibility can be limited. Guided tours are also recommended in order to get the most out of the experience.
Restaurants in Paris
$-$$
L’As du Falafel
(Mediterranean)
Pink Mamma
(Italian)
Relais d’Entrecote
(Steak Frites)
Breizh Cafe
(Crepes)
Au Passage
(Tapas & Wine)
Chez Janou
(Provençal)
$$$-$$$$
Le Train Bleu
(French)
Au Bourgignon du Marais
(French)
Au Pied du Cochon
(French)
Septime
(Fine Dining)
Benoit
(Fine Dining)
Sweet Treats & Bakeries
Carette
(Hot Chocolate + Breakfast)
Angelina
(Hot Chocolate + Breakfast)
Pierre Hermé
(Hot Chocolate + Breakfast)
Ladurée
(Macarons)
Berthillon
(Ice Cream)
Du Pain et des Idées
(Bakery)
Bo & Mie
(Bakery)
Paris Neighborhood Guide
Paris is divided into 20 districts, known as arrondissements, which spiral outwards from the city center in a clockwise, snail-shell pattern. The Seine River also plays a key role in defining the layout, dividing the city into two halves: the Right Bank (north of the river) and the Left Bank (south of the river).
Right Bank
(rive droite)
- 1st to 4th Arrondissements: These central arrondissements are home to some of the most iconic attractions, including the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Le Marais. They are often referred to as the heart of historic Paris and offer easy access to cultural landmarks and high-end shopping districts.
- 8th Arrondissement: Known for the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe, this area is one of the most famous and luxurious parts of Paris.
- 9th Arrondissement: Centered around the Opéra Garnier and Galeries Lafayette, this area is a major shopping and entertainment hub.
- 18th Arrondissement: The hilly, bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre is located here, famous for the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and artistic history.
Left Bank
(rive gauche)
- 5th and 6th Arrondissements: These areas include the Latin Quarter (5th), known for its lively student atmosphere and historic sites like the Panthéon, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th), famous for its intellectual past and elegant cafés.
- 7th Arrondissement: This prestigious area is home to the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, and Les Invalides, offering picturesque streets and grand landmarks.
Further Out
- The outer arrondissements (12th–20th) are more residential but still offer interesting attractions. For example, the 20th Arrondissement is home to the historic Père Lachaise Cemetery, and the 12th Arrondissement houses the expansive Bois de Vincennes park.
How to Get Around Paris
Getting around Paris is pretty easy with public transportation, Uber/taxis, and walkable neighborhoods. Google Maps will also be one of your go-to’s but also download apps like Citymapper or the free RATP app to help with route planning
Public Transportation in Paris
The Métro is the most popular and cost-effective option, with single tickets costing around €2 or visitors can buy a booklet of 10 tickets for around €20. If you are staying for more than a few days, I’d recommend buying the Navigo Easy Pass, as it will be more cost effective than buying the booklet of tickets, and you can just top it off at any of the metro stations. For longer distances or airport transfers, the RER is convenient. Uber and taxis are widely available, but the metro is super easy to navigate, so I’d recommend using the metro unless it is late night.
Day Trips from Paris
1. Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is located just outside Paris, and is a must see. It’s renowned for its stunning architecture, and features lavishly decorated rooms like the iconic Hall of Mirrors, as well as extensive gardens and intricate fountains. Marie Antoinette’s estate on the grounds is also worth visiting!
How to Get to Versailles from Paris:
Train: Take the RER C train from central Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche (approx. 30-40 minutes).
2. Giverny
Giverny is a charming village close to Paris, and was the home of the famous Impressionist painter Claude Monet. You can explore Monet’s house and its stunning gardens, which inspired many of his famous works, including the iconic water lilies and the famous Japanese bridge. In addition to Monet’s estate, you can visit the Musée des Impressionnismes, which celebrates the Impressionist movement.
How to Get to Giverny from Paris:
Train: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon (approx. 45 minutes) and then a short bus or taxi ride to Giverny.
Bike Tour: While there are guided tour bus options, you can also do a bike tour to Giverny which is a fun way to see more of the countryside!
3. Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is a picturesque region known for its stunning châteaux, rolling vineyards & wine production, and charming towns, located about two hours from Paris. Be sure to check out the Château de Chambord and the Château de Chenonceau. Also make sure to book a wine tasting!
How to Get to the Loire Valley from Paris:
Guided Tour: There are tons of guided tour options which include transportation to each of the castles, as well as historical commentary and wine tastings.
Car: Renting a car is the best option for flexibility (approx. 2-3 hours from Paris).
Train: Take a train to Tours or Amboise (approx. 1.5-2 hours) and then take a taxi.
Best Time to Visit Paris
In my opinion, the best time to visit Paris is anytime! But a lot of people will agree that late spring and early fall offer the perfect balance.
From late April to early June, Paris is especially charming. Flowers are blooming, the weather is mild, and the city isn’t overwhelmed with tourists yet. September and early October are also great, with crisp air, fewer crowds, and a cozy atmosphere.
If you love festivals, long days, and outdoor café culture, summer (June to July) is vibrant and full of life, though it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. One thing to keep in mind is that in August, Parisians head south for summer vacation, so a lot of shops may be closed. Also many hotels and Airbnb’s in Paris do not have air conditioned rooms, so if you get caught in a heatwave it can be quite uncomfortable!
Winter (December to February) is cold and quieter, but it’s great for budget travelers and is much less crowded. Plus the city looks magical during the holidays! Just be prepared for shorter days and chilly weather.
How Many Days to Spend in Paris
There’s so many things to do in Paris you could easily spend a month taking it all in. Unfortunately, most of us don’t have that much time off from work! I’d recommend at least 4 full days in Paris in order to get the most out of the city, but a week is ideal especially if you plan on doing day trips.
Is Paris Safe for Tourists?
Paris is generally safe for tourists, but as with any major city, you’ll want to take the usual precautions when traveling. Avoid poorly lit areas, keep an eye on your belongings, and don’t accept drinks from strangers. Unfortunately, Paris does have its share of scams aimed at tourists and these are some of the most common scams in Paris to be aware of:
1. Pickpocketing
Paris is known for skilled pickpockets, especially in crowded tourist spots. Keep a close eye on your belongings, don’t keep anything in your pockets, don’t leave your phone out on cafe tables, and consider bringing an anti-theft bag (I’m a huge fan of the Arden Cove purses). Make sure you have a hand on your bag at all times on public transportation, and be aware when the doors are opening and closing as pickpockets often try to distract their targets by bumping against them and then running off the train with your belongings.
2. Friendship Bracelet Scam
At tourist spots like Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur, scammers may approach and try to tie a bracelet on your wrist, claiming it’s a gift or offering “good luck.” Once the bracelet is on, they demand payment, sometimes aggressively. Politely but firmly decline and keep moving if approached.
3. Petition Scam
Near popular sites like the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame, young people holding clipboards may ask if you speak English and then try to get you to sign a fake petition. After you sign, they demand a “donation” for their cause. Walk away if you see anyone approaching with a clipboard.
4. Gold Ring Scam
A scammer “finds” a gold ring on the ground and insists it must be yours, then hands it to you as a gift. After a bit of small talk, they ask for money in return. Politely refuse, and don’t engage.
5. Fake Taxi Scam
Unlicensed taxis near airports or tourist sites offer inflated fares or intentionally take longer routes to overcharge. Stick to official taxis with meters and legitimate rideshare services.
Basic French Phrases to Know
Basic Greetings
Au revoir – Goodbye
Bonjour – Hello / Good morning
Bonsoir – Good evening
Salut – Hi (informal)
Polite Expressions
Excusez-moi – Excuse me
S’il vous plaît – Please
Merci – Thank you
Je vous en prie – You’re welcome (formal)
Getting Around/Basic Questions
Où est…? – Where is…?
Pouvez-vous m’aider? – Can you help me?
Parlez-vous anglais? – Do you speak English?
Je ne comprends pas. – I don’t understand.
Je suis désolé(e) – I’m sorry.
Dining Out
Avez-vous un menu en anglais? – Do you have a menu in English?
Une table pour deux, s’il vous plaît. – A table for two, please.
Je voudrais… – I would like…
L’addition, s’il vous plaît. – The bill, please.
Shopping
C’est combien? – How much is it?
Combien ça coûte? – How much does it cost?
Puis-je essayer ceci? – Can I try this on?
Avez-vous…? – Do you have…?
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