Things to do in Paris: 10 Best Experiences
Why Paris is the Ultimate Travel Destination
Things to do in Paris offer a blend of iconic landmarks, world-class art, and local experiences that make the City of Light a beloved destination. As Audrey Hepburn said, “Paris is always a good idea,” but the sheer number of options can be overwhelming.
Top Things to Do in Paris:
- Eiffel Tower – Experience both day and night views from this iconic landmark
- Louvre Museum – See the Mona Lisa and world’s largest art collection
- Notre Dame Cathedral – Admire Gothic architecture and visit the archaeological crypt
- Montmartre – Explore cobblestone streets and artist squares in this historic neighborhood
- Seine River Cruise – View Paris landmarks from a unique water perspective
- Luxembourg Gardens – Relax in beautiful Parisian green spaces
- Le Marais – Find trendy boutiques and historic mansions
- Sacrรฉ-Cลur Basilica – Enjoy panoramic city views from this hilltop church
- Arc de Triomphe – Climb to the top for stunning Champs-รlysรฉes views
- Cooking Classes – Learn to make macarons or French pastries
Whether you’re drawn to landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or local experiences in neighborhoods like Le Marais, Paris delivers unforgettable moments. The challenge is choosing from the variety of museums, gardens, and hidden gems. This guide will help you create the perfect itinerary.
I’m Ramy Saber, founder of GoTravelHunt. My experience shows that the best Paris trips combine must-see attractions with immersive local experiences. A well-organized itinerary balances iconic sights with authentic cultural activities.
Iconic Landmarks & World-Class Museums
When you think of things to do in Paris, the city’s legendary landmarks and museums likely come to mind. These aren’t just tourist attractions; they’re living pieces of history that tell the story of human creativity and artistry.
Reach for the Sky: Eiffel Tower & Arc de Triomphe
The Eiffel Tower is Paris’s most famous landmark. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World Fair, it has become a symbol of romance. The experience changes dramatically between day and night. During the day, appreciate the intricate ironwork and sweeping views. At night, the hourly light show creates an unforgettable moment. An insider tip: book your timed ticket entry in advance, as queues can stretch for hours. The second floor offers a perfect balance of spectacular views without an exhausting climb.
A short Metro ride away stands the magnificent Arc de Triomphe, Napoleon’s tribute to French military victories. It’s the heart of Paris’s star-shaped street layout, where twelve grand avenues radiate outward. Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with its eternal flame rekindled nightly. The climb to the rooftop viewing platform involves 284 steps, but the panoramic views of Baron Haussmann’s perfectly straight boulevards are worth it. Be sure to get your rooftop tickets to secure your spot.
Masterpieces & Master-works: The Louvre & Musรฉe d’Orsay
The Louvre Museum is where art history comes alive. As the world’s largest museum, it houses over 35,000 artworks. While everyone comes for Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, treasures like the ancient Venus de Milo sculpture and the dramatic Winged Victory of Samothrace are equally captivating. The Egyptian antiquities section transports you back thousands of years. To explore the Louvre efficiently, consider a private guided tour. An expert guide helps you steer the maze-like corridors and shares stories behind the masterpieces. For fewer crowds, visit on Wednesday or Friday evenings when the museum stays open late.
Across the Seine, the Musรฉe d’Orsay offers a different but equally rewarding experience. This former Belle รpoque railway station is now a temple of Impressionist art. Its soaring glass ceiling and ornate clock create a stunning backdrop for works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. The museum’s manageable size means you can appreciate each piece without feeling overwhelmed. Secure your tickets for Musee D’Orsay in advance to guarantee entry.
Sacred Spaces: Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle & Sacrรฉ-Cลur
Paris’s sacred architecture tells a story of faith and artistry. Notre Dame Cathedral remains one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture, even as restoration continues after the 2019 fire. While awaiting its full reopening, you can still marvel at its exterior. The archaeological crypt beneath the cathedral square offers a journey through 2,000 years of Parisian history, revealing Roman ruins and medieval foundations. You can book your Notre Dame archaeological crypt experience to see this hidden layer of Paris.
A short walk away is Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic gem famous for its breathtaking stained glass windows. When sunlight streams through the 50-foot-tall windows, the upper chapel transforms into a kaleidoscope of color, telling 1,113 biblical scenes in glass. It’s like stepping inside a jeweled reliquary. Secure your Sainte Chapelle tickets to witness this medieval masterpiece.
High on Montmartre hill, Sacrรฉ-Cลur Basilica offers both spiritual solace and spectacular views. The gleaming white Romano-Byzantine domes are visible from across Paris. The real treasure here might be the panoramic city views from the basilica steps, a free vantage point that lets you see Paris spread out below. The climb up Montmartre’s winding streets is part of the adventure, though a funicular offers an easier alternative.
The Authentic Parisian Experience: Neighborhoods & Local Secrets
Beyond the monuments, the essence of Paris lies in its vibrant neighborhoods. Exploring these areas reveals how locals live, offering a deeper connection to the city. These are the things to do in Paris that uncover its authentic culture.
Strolling Through Le Marais & Montmartre
Le Marais, in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, feels like a living history book with its narrow cobblestone streets, historic mansions, and grand courtyards. The neighborhood’s crown jewel is Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest planned square. Le Marais seamlessly blends past and present, with trendy boutiques in medieval buildings and the Jewish Quarter around Rue des Rosiers offering incredible falafel. A Marais walking tour is perfect for uncovering hidden courtyards and local stories.
Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement has a village-like charm. Once home to artists like Monet and Picasso, its creative spirit remains. Place du Tertre buzzes with artists painting portraits, while nearby you’ll find Paris’s last remaining vineyard. The real magic is in exploring beyond the main tourist areas, where hidden cobblestone streets lead to cozy bistros. Consider a Montmartre cheese, wine, and pastry tour to taste the neighborhood like a true Parisian.
Relaxing in Parisian Gardens: Luxembourg & Tuileries
Paris’s gardens offer a perfect sanctuary. Jardin du Luxembourg in Saint-Germain-des-Prรจs is the city’s living room, where Parisians come to relax. Watching children sail toy sailboats across the central pond is a century-old tradition. The romantic Medici Fountain is a favorite reading nook for locals. A self-guided audio tour of Jardin du Luxembourg can reveal fascinating stories about this beloved green space.
Jardin des Tuileries offers a different but equally enchanting experience. Stretching between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, its manicured lawns and geometric ponds showcase classic French garden design. Don’t miss the Musรฉe de l’Orangerie within the gardens, home to Monet’s massive Water Lilies murals. From late June through August, the Jardin des Tuileries also hosts a traditional fairground with a Ferris wheel offering spectacular city views.
Finding Hidden Gems: Covered Passages & Flea Markets
Paris holds many secrets. The city’s covered passages are 19th-century shopping arcades with soaring glass roofs, like time capsules from another era. Today, these architectural gems house vintage shops, artisanal boutiques, and cozy cafรฉs. Finding the best covered passages is a treasure hunt in itself.
For a different kind of treasure hunting, the Paris Flea Markets (Marchรฉ aux Puces) near Porte de Clignancourt are an incredible weekend adventure. Open Friday through Monday, these sprawling markets are where Parisians find antiques, vintage clothing, and unique souvenirs. The energy is infectious, combining passionate vendors with the thrill of the hunt, creating an authentic Parisian experience.
Immersive Culture: Unique Things to Do in Paris
The most memorable things to do in Paris are often hands-on cultural experiences. These immersive activities let you taste, touch, and understand what makes Parisian culture so captivating.
The Tastiest Things to Do in Paris: Master Parisian Cuisine
French food is an art form. Getting your hands floury in a Parisian kitchen is a rewarding experience that transforms you from tourist to temporary local. A macaron baking class, for example, breaks down the delicate process of making these colorful cookies. For bread lovers, a baking class can teach you the secrets behind the perfect French baguette. Wine enthusiasts can enjoy a wine making workshop in an authentic 18th-century cellar or a wine tasting at Les Caves du Louvre, King Louis XV’s former cellar. Of course, you can’t leave Paris without sampling legendary treats like Angelina’s hot chocolate or Ladurรฉe’s macarons.
Create Your Signature Scent & Explore Literary Paris
Paris is the world’s perfume capital. Creating your own signature fragrance connects you to this tradition. A perfume creation workshop allows you to design a personal fragrance, learning about top, middle, and base notes while crafting a unique souvenir. The Fragonard Perfume Museum also offers shorter workshops for a hands-on experience.
Paris and literature are deeply intertwined. The city inspired writers from Hemingway to Gertrude Stein. Shakespeare and Company Bookstore on the Left Bank remains a pilgrimage site for book lovers, a literary sanctuary since the 1920s. Along the Seine River, the bouquinistes continue a tradition from the 16th century, selling vintage maps and rare books from their green boxes. For a more contemplative experience, Pรจre Lachaise Cemetery is a beautiful and peaceful resting place for artists like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf.
See the City from the Water: Seine River Cruises
Sometimes the best way to appreciate Paris is from a different angle. The Seine River has been Paris’s lifeline for centuries, and a cruise offers perspectives you can’t get from the street. A one-hour Seine River cruise takes you past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Musรฉe d’Orsay. You’ll glide beneath charming stone bridges while the city unfolds along the quaysides. For an unforgettable evening, a dinner cruise on the Seine with live music transforms sightseeing into pure magic as the city lights begin to twinkle. The Batobus, a hop-on, hop-off boat system, is a practical alternative with nine stops at major sites.
A Practical Guide to Your Paris Adventure
Planning your Parisian getaway doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a few insider tips and practical strategies, you can steer the City of Light like a local and find some incredible free experiences.
Getting Around Paris & Finding Free Activities
The Paris Metro system is efficient, affordable, safe, and easy to steer, connecting virtually every corner of the city. For a more scenic approach, consider a Hop On Hop Off Bus tour, or enjoy the classic Parisian experience of renting bicycles to glide along the Seine.
Paris lives up to its nickname as the City of Light and also shines when it comes to free activities. Many museums offer free admission on specific days; for example, the Louvre is free on the first Sunday of each month from October to March. The Petit Palais and Musee Fragonard offer free permanent collections year-round. Some of our favorite free city views are from the steps of Sacrรฉ-Cลur, the rooftop of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann, and Parc de Belleville. A picnic in the Jardin du Luxembourg or Place des Vosges is wonderfully romantic and easy on the wallet.
Where to Stay for a Charming Experience
Your choice of accommodation can transform your Paris experience. We advocate for boutique hotels, which offer a unique charm and personalized service that makes you feel like a local. Neighborhoods like Saint-Germain-des-Prรฉs and Le Marais are filled with charming options in beautifully restored buildings. If you’re traveling with family or prefer more space, renting an apartment can give you that genuine neighborhood feel, letting you shop at local markets and live like a Parisian. We recommend booking 6-8 months in advance for the best selection and rates.
Unforgettable Day Trips from Paris
While Paris offers endless exploration, some of the most memorable experiences involve day trips just outside the city. The Palace of Versailles is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, offering insight into French royalty. You can take a simple train ride or opt for convenient timed tickets for Versailles that include full access to the palace and gardens. The Hall of Mirrors is breathtaking, and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet offers a charming glimpse into her attempt at simple country living.
Another magical day trip is to Giverny, about 50 miles northwest of Paris, where you can walk through Claude Monet’s House and Gardens. Standing on the famous Japanese Bridge surrounded by the water lilies that inspired his masterpieces is a moving experience. You can explore independently or join a full-day tour from Paris to Giverny and Versailles for a comprehensive artistic and historical day.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Paris
What are the absolute must-see attractions for a first-time visitor?
For a first-time visitor, focusing on a few key experiences provides the best introduction to the city. Our recommendations for absolute must-sees include:
- The Eiffel Tower: Admire it from the Champ de Mars gardens or climb it for incredible views.
- The Louvre Museum: Dedicate at least half a day to see masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
- Notre Dame Cathedral Area: Appreciate the Gothic exterior and explore the archaeological crypt beneath.
- Arc de Triomphe: Climb to the top for some of the best panoramic views in Paris.
- A Seine River Cruise: See the city’s landmarks from a relaxing and unique perspective.
- Montmartre & Sacrรฉ-Cลur: Explore the charming cobblestone streets and enjoy stunning city views.
What are some unique things to do in Paris for a local experience?
To experience Paris like a local, step off the beaten path. Some of our favorite authentic activities include:
- Exploring the 19th-century covered passages with their vintage shops and cafes.
- Visiting the Marchรฉ des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market, for lunch.
- Strolling along Canal Saint-Martin, a favorite hangout for young Parisians.
- Finding street art in the multicultural neighborhood of Belleville.
- Taking a hands-on cooking class or perfume-making workshop.
- Wandering through Pรจre Lachaise Cemetery to visit the graves of famous artists.
- Embracing flรขnerieโthe art of aimlessly wandering to soak in the atmosphere.
How many days are enough for Paris?
The ideal length of your stay depends on your travel style. Three to four days is enough to see the main highlights without feeling too rushed. However, we recommend five to seven days for a more relaxed and rewarding experience. This allows you to explore neighborhoods at a leisurely pace, indulge in culinary adventures, and even take a day trip to Versailles or Giverny. More time allows you to balance iconic landmarks with the spontaneous moments that make a trip to Paris truly unforgettable.
Conclusion
Paris offers an extraordinary mix of experiences, from the soaring heights of the Eiffel Tower to the intimate charm of a macaron-making class. The city weaves together iconic art, centuries of rich history, and the authentic rhythms of charming local life.
What makes Paris special is how it blends grand monuments with hidden gems. You can admire the Mona Lisa in the morning, wander through a 19th-century covered passage in the afternoon, and create your own signature perfume by evening.
The key to an unforgettable Parisian adventure lies in planning a mix of must-see sights and immersive experiences. Don’t just photograph the Eiffel Tower; see it from the water on a Seine River cruise. This balance between iconic and intimate creates a journey custom to your interests.
Whether you have three days or a week, Paris adapts to your travel style, rewarding both the planner and the wanderer. At GoTravelHunt, we know the magic of Paris is in the experience. Let GoTravelHunt help you plan your perfect Parisian adventure, making your travel planning easy, stress-free, and affordable. You can focus on creating unforgettable memories that will have you planning your return trip before you’ve even left.
