Nice things to do in Paris: 10 Amazing Ways
Why Paris is Always Worth Your Time
Nice things to do in Paris include visiting the Eiffel Tower, exploring world-class museums like the Louvre and Musรฉe d’Orsay, strolling through charming neighborhoods such as Montmartre and Le Marais, enjoying picnics in beautiful gardens, indulging in French pastries and cuisine, taking a Seine River cruise, and finding unique experiences like the Catacombs or perfume-making workshops.
Paris has earned its nickname as the City of Light for good reason. This city offers world-renowned fashion, quaint outdoor cafรฉs, historic monuments, incredible art museums, scrumptious pรขtisseries, and endless people-watching opportunities. As Audrey Hepburn said, “Paris is always a good idea.”
But visiting Paris doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With nice things to do in Paris ranging from iconic landmarks to hidden neighborhood gems, you can craft a trip that fits your budget and interests. The key is knowing how to avoid the crowds, where to find the best deals, and which experiences truly deliver on their promise.
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (neighborhoods), each spiraling out from the center like a snail shell. Understanding this layout helps you plan your days efficiently and find the authentic Parisian experiences you’re looking for.
I’m Ramy Saber, founder of GoTravelHunt, and I’ve spent years helping travelers like you find the best nice things to do in Paris without the hassle of scattered bookings or overpriced tourist traps. My approach combines practical engineering precision with a passion for authentic travel experiences that create lasting memories.
See Paris’s Iconic Landmarks with a Twist
Paris wouldn’t be Paris without its world-famous landmarks. These architectural marvels are absolutely among the most nice things to do in Paris, and you shouldn’t skip them just because they’re popular. The secret isn’t avoiding these iconsโit’s experiencing them smartly, without the stress of endless lines and overwhelming crowds.
The trick is knowing when to visit, how to book, and which insider tips can transform a potentially frustrating tourist experience into a genuine highlight of your trip. For a comprehensive guide to all of Paris’s must-see attractions, check out our Best Things to Do in Paris.
Ascend the Eiffel Tower (The Smart Way)
There she standsโall 324 meters of iron latticework reaching into the Parisian sky. Gustave Eiffel’s masterpiece, built for the 1889 World Fair, remains the undisputed symbol of Paris. And yes, you absolutely should go up.
But here’s what we’ve learned: never wait in those snaking lines for hours. The smart approach is booking a timed ticket entry that lets you skip the line entirely. You can get guided access to the second floor and even continue to the summit via elevator if you’re feeling ambitious. If you have a Go City Pass, it includes the guided climb, which is a fantastic way to appreciate the tower’s engineering up close.
Now, here’s a perspective shift: some of our most magical Eiffel Tower moments haven’t been from the top at all. Grab a fresh baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of wine, then spread out a blanket in the Champ de Mars gardens. The views are spectacular, the atmosphere is quintessentially Parisian, and you’ll save both time and money. Stay for the evening light show when the tower sparkles like champagne bubblesโit’s pure magic.
For more strategies on making the most of your visit, explore our Eiffel Tower tips and experiences on GoTravelHunt.
Conquer the Louvre Without the Crowds
The Louvre isn’t just a museumโit’s a universe of art spanning over 60,000 square meters. Home to the enigmatic Mona Lisa, the graceful Venus de Milo, and the triumphant Winged Victory, it can feel overwhelming before you even walk through the iconic glass pyramid entrance.
Our best advice? Timing is everything. Arrive right when the doors open in the morning, or visit on a Friday evening after 6 p.m. when most tourists have called it a day. You’ll have room to breathe and actually see the art without being jostled by crowds.
For a truly enriching experience, consider booking a private guided tour. An expert guide transforms the Louvre from a confusing maze into a curated journey through human creativity. They’ll help you steer to the masterpieces that matter most to you, share stories that bring the art to life, and help you skip past the less interesting galleries.
Always book your tickets in advanceโthis simple step saves you from the notorious ticket lines. Find more detailed Louvre visit tips and unique tours on GoTravelHunt.
Admire Notre-Dame and its Gothic Splendor
Notre-Dame Cathedral has watched over Paris for centuries, its Gothic spires reaching toward heaven, its flying buttresses defying gravity. While the devastating 2019 fire broke hearts worldwide, the cathedral’s spirit remains unshaken as reconstruction continues.
Even though you can’t step inside right now, the exterior alone is breathtaking. The intricate stone carvings, the rose windows, the gargoyles keeping their eternal watchโthere’s so much to appreciate from outside. The craftsmanship that went into every detail is simply extraordinary.
For a deeper understanding, consider a one-hour guided tour that explores the facade before descending into the archaeological crypt beneath the square. Down there, you’ll find layers of Paris’s history, from Roman ruins to medieval foundations. It’s a unique way to connect with Notre-Dame’s story while we wait for the day we can once again step inside.
Stay updated on reconstruction progress and visiting options through our Notre-Dame highlights and updates on GoTravelHunt.
Climb the Arc de Triomphe for Unbeatable Views
Standing 50 meters tall at the western end of the magnificent Champs-รlysรฉes, the Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought for France during the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Beneath its arch burns the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a moving tribute to the 1.3 million French soldiers who never came home from World War I.
Yes, climbing the 284 steps to the top is a workout. But trust usโit’s one of the most rewarding viewpoints in the entire city. From the rooftop terrace, you’ll see why the Arc sits at such a strategic location. Twelve grand avenues radiate outward like the spokes of a wheel, creating the famous star pattern (which is why this area is called Place de l’รtoile).
The panoramic views sweep across Paris in every direction. You’ll spot the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Sacrรฉ-Cลur, and the entire city stretching to the horizon. Unlike the Eiffel Tower, this viewpoint includes the Eiffel Tower itself in your photosโand the crowds are typically much smaller.
Get your Arc de Triomphe rooftop tickets here to skip the ticket line and head straight up. For more planning advice, visit our Arc de Triomphe visiting tips on GoTravelHunt.
Indulge in Quintessential Parisian Food & Drink
Let’s talk about one of the most delicious nice things to do in Paris: eating and drinking your way through the city. Paris isn’t just beautiful to look atโit’s a feast for your taste buds. From the moment you step into a neighborhood boulangerie and smell fresh bread baking, you’ll understand why the French take their food so seriously.
Master the Art of the Parisian Picnic
Here’s a secret that locals know: some of the best meals in Paris don’t happen in restaurants at all. One of our absolute favorite Parisian experiences is assembling a perfect picnic and enjoying it in one of the city’s stunning parks. Paris is so beautiful, you’ll never want to go inside!
The ritual is simple but magical. Start at a local boulangerie for a crusty fresh baguette, still warm if you’re lucky. Then visit a fromagerie where the cheese expert will help you select a few varietiesโmaybe a creamy Camembert and a tangy chรจvre. Stop by a pรขtisserie for something sweet (those colorful macarons are calling your name), and don’t forget a bottle of wine. The Marchรฉ des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market established in 1628, is a fantastic all-in-one spot for gourmet picnic supplies.
Now comes the best part: finding your perfect spot. The Jardin du Luxembourg nestled between Saint-Germain and the Latin Quarter offers serene atmosphere, the romantic Medici Fountain, and toy boats sailing on the lake. The Jardin des Tuileries between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde features beautifully manicured gardens and peaceful ponds. For iconic Eiffel Tower views, especially at sunset, the Champ de Mars can’t be beaten. The Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest planned square, provides a tranquil afternoon escape in Le Marais. Or join the young locals gathering along the trendy Canal Saint-Martin.
Spread out your feast, pour a glass of wine, and watch Parisian life unfold around you. This is how the locals do it, and it’s one of the most authentic experiences you can have. Find more Paris picnic ideas on GoTravelHunt.
Become a Pรขtissier for a Day
Those delicate, colorful macarons you see in every pastry shop window? They’re harder to make than they look. These feather-light meringue cookies sandwiched together with buttercream or ganache are an art form that French pastry chefs spend years perfecting. But here’s the good news: you can learn the basics in just a few hours.
We love the idea of taking a baking class in Paris because you’re not just eating the foodโyou’re learning the secrets behind it. Ladurรฉe, created in 1862, is one of the world’s best-known sellers of the double-decker macaron, a concept that originated around 1930. Imagine mastering their craft! You can sign up for this macaron baking class held at the iconic Galeries Lafayette shopping center.
Whether you’re tackling croissants with their countless buttery layers or perfecting the smooth “feet” on macarons, these classes offer something special: a skill you can take home. Your friends and family will be amazed when you recreate a taste of Paris in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s just plain fun to get your hands covered in flour and butter in the heart of the City of Light. For more unique culinary adventures, find Paris baking classes and experiences on GoTravelHunt.
Join a Gourmet Food & Wine Tour
French cuisine goes far beyond pastries, and diving into the country’s legendary wine and cheese traditions is one of the most delightful nice things to do in Paris. These aren’t just tastingsโthey’re journeys into centuries of culinary tradition.
Imagine creating your own French wine in an 18th-century cellar. This 2-hour wine making workshop lets you blend your own personalized bottle, learning about grape varieties and the art of winemaking from expert sommeliers. You’ll leave with a bottle that’s uniquely yours.
For history buffs, Les Caves du Louvre offers something extraordinary: a guided tour through King Louis XV’s hidden wine cellar, complete with tastings of carefully selected French wines. This experience is also available on the Go City Paris pass, making it both convenient and budget-friendly.
If you want the full Parisian food experience in one go, this guided walking tour through Montmartre combines the best of everything. Over three hours, you’ll visit eight different stops, sampling French pastries, artisanal cheeses, and local wines while strolling through one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods. It’s like having a knowledgeable friend show you all their favorite spots.
These experiences offer wonderful insights into France’s rich culinary traditions while letting you taste your way through the city’s best offerings. Explore more food and wine experiences in Paris on GoTravelHunt.
Explore Paris’s Most Charming Neighborhoods Like a Local
Paris is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and rhythm. To truly experience the heart of the city, you need to venture beyond the major landmarks and lose yourself in the winding streets of its arrondissements. This is where you’ll find some of the most authentic and nice things to do in Parisโthe kind of experiences that transform a good trip into an unforgettable one.
Find the Artistic Soul of Montmartre
Perched high on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre feels like a village within the city. Despite drawing crowds of visitors, this neighborhood has somehow managed to preserve its bohemian soul and artistic spirit. The moment you start climbing those charming streets, you’ll understand why artists like Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec once called this place home.
The Sacrรฉ-Cลur Basilica, with its striking white Romano-Byzantine domes, crowns the hill and offers breathtaking panoramic views across all of Paris. It’s worth the climb just for the vista alone. But the real magic of Montmartre reveals itself as you wander its cobblestone streets and find hidden staircases tucked between buildings.
Make your way to Place du Tertre, the famous artists’ square where painters still set up their easels today, hoping to capture a bit of that old Montmartre magic. The square buzzes with energy as street artists sketch portraits and sell their work. Yes, it’s touristy, but there’s something undeniably charming about it.
Don’t miss the quieter corners eitherโthe ivy-covered walls, the tiny cafรฉs where locals still gather, and the view of the Moulin Rouge down the hill, with its iconic red windmill that has been spinning since 1889. For a deeper dive into this captivating neighborhood, check out our Montmartre walking guide on GoTravelHunt.
Get Lost in Trendy Le Marais
Le Marais, stretching across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, is where medieval Paris meets modern cool. This is the neighborhood where centuries-old mansions house cutting-edge art galleries, where traditional Jewish bakeries sit next to trendy concept stores, and where history and contemporary life blend seamlessly on every corner.
Start your exploration at Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris. Built in the early 1600s, its perfectly symmetrical arcades and manicured gardens create an oasis of calm. Locals spread out on the grass with books and picnic baskets, and you should too.
As you wander deeper into Le Marais, you’ll pass magnificent historic mansions (called hรดtels particuliers) that once belonged to French aristocracy. Many now house museums like the Musรฉe Picasso or the Musรฉe Carnavalet. The narrow medieval streets reveal surprise after surpriseโa hidden courtyard here, a vintage boutique there, a gallery showcasing emerging artists around the corner.
The Jewish Quarter, centered around Rue des Rosiers, is a must-visit. The smell of fresh challah and falafel fills the air, and the neighborhood’s rich history is palpable. This is also one of the trendiest areas for shopping, with boutiques selling everything from designer fashion to quirky home goods. Le Marais has truly mastered the art of honoring its past while embracing the future. Find more details in our Le Marais neighborhood guide on GoTravelHunt.
Wander the Literary Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter, spreading across the 5th arrondissement on the Left Bank, has been the intellectual heart of Paris for centuries. Named for the Latin language once spoken by Sorbonne University students in medieval times, this neighborhood still pulses with scholarly energy and creative spirit.
The streets here feel differentโnarrower, more intimate, lined with bookstores that smell of old paper and possibility. The crown jewel is Shakespeare and Company Bookstore, the legendary English-language bookshop that has served as a haven for writers and dreamers since 1951 (following in the footsteps of the original 1920s store). Its creaky floors, floor-to-ceiling shelves, and cozy reading nooks overlooking the Seine make it one of the most magical spots in Paris. You can easily lose an hour browsing, and you absolutely should.
As evening falls, the Latin Quarter reveals another side of its personality. Descend into one of the neighborhood’s intimate jazz clubs hidden in basement cellars, where live music spills out onto the street. The area around Saint-Germain-des-Prรฉs (technically in the 6th but right next door) was once the stomping ground of existentialist philosophers like Sartre and de Beauvoir, and you can still feel that intellectual buzz in the air.
The Latin Quarter is best explored without a map or agenda. Let yourself get lost down side streets, pop into cafรฉs that catch your eye, and soak in the neighborhood’s timeless bohemian atmosphere. For more insider tips, explore Latin Quarter highlights on GoTravelHunt.
Immerse Yourself in Unforgettable Art, History, and Culture
Beyond the major landmarks, Paris offers a wealth of cultural experiences that provide a deeper understanding of its history and artistic legacy. These are truly some of the most enriching and nice things to do in Paris. Whether you’re drawn to Impressionist masterpieces, medieval stained glass, or royal opulence, the city’s museums and historical sites offer something for every taste.
Experience Impressionism in a Former Train Station
The Musรฉe d’Orsay holds a special place in our hearts, and not just because of its incredible art collection. This museum is housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, and honestly, the building itself is a work of art. The soaring glass ceiling, ornate clocks, and neat architecture make it almost worth visiting for the structure alone.
But once you step inside, prepare to be swept away by one of the world’s finest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. You’ll find yourself face-to-face with masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas. The way the natural light filters through the station’s original architecture creates a magical atmosphere that perfectly complements the paintings.
We particularly love standing by the famous clock window on the upper level. Through its transparent face, you’ll see stunning views of the Seine and the Louvre across the river. It’s one of those moments where art, architecture, and the city itself come together beautifully. For tips on navigating the museum and making the most of your visit, check out our Musรฉe d’Orsay tips on GoTravelHunt.
Witness the Breathtaking Stained Glass of Sainte-Chapelle
Hidden away on the รle de la Citรฉ, Sainte-Chapelle is one of Paris’s most spectacular secrets. This Gothic chapel might be small in size, but its impact is enormous. Walking into its upper chapel feels like stepping inside a jewel box made of light and color.
The chapel is famous for its 1,113 stained-glass panels that stretch from floor to ceiling, depicting biblical scenes from the Old and New Testaments. When sunlight pours through these windows, the entire space glows with vibrant blues, reds, and golds. It’s an ethereal experience that often leaves visitors speechless.
We strongly recommend visiting on a sunny day to witness the full glory of the stained glass. The way the light transforms throughout the day means no two visits are quite the same. The delicate rose windows and soaring nave showcase the pinnacle of Gothic architecture and craftsmanship. For planning your visit and understanding what to expect, explore our Sainte-Chapelle visit guide on GoTravelHunt.
Take a Day Trip to Royal Splendor at Versailles
If you have time for a day trip, the Palace of Versailles is absolutely worth the journey. Located about 50 miles northwest of Paris, this UNESCO World Heritage Site represents the height of French royal excess and grandeur. Once home to Louis XIV, Marie Antoinette, and other French monarchs, Versailles offers an unforgettable glimpse into how royalty lived.
The famous Hall of Mirrors is breathtaking, with its 357 mirrors reflecting light from the garden windows and creating an almost magical effect. You’ll wander through the King’s and Queen’s Apartments, each room more lavishly decorated than the last. But don’t spend all your time indoorsโthe vast gardens that stretch for acres are equally impressive, with their carefully sculpted landscapes, fountains, and hidden groves.
We recommend buying your timed tickets for Versailles, with full access plus gardens, here to skip the notoriously long lines. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider this day tour ticket including transport for a hassle-free excursion. Marie Antoinette’s Estate, tucked away in a corner of the grounds, offers a more intimate look at royal life. Plan your royal adventure with our Versailles day trip tips on GoTravelHunt.
Find Unique and Nice Things to Do in Paris
The most unforgettable travel memories often come from experiences you didn’t expect. While Paris’s famous landmarks are spectacular, some of the most nice things to do in Paris lie just beneath the surfaceโliterally, in some cases! These unique adventures offer fresh perspectives on the city and stories you’ll be telling for years. For even more inspiration, check out our guide to Fun Things to Do in Paris: Top Activities, Attractions & Unique Experiences.
Go Underground into the Paris Catacombs
Deep beneath the charming cafรฉs and busy boulevards lies a world that feels frozen in time. The Paris Catacombs hold the remains of approximately six million Parisians, transferred to these underground ossuaries in the late 18th century when the city’s cemeteries became dangerously overcrowded.
Walking through these tunnels is unlike anything else you’ll experience in Paris. The 1.5-kilometer guided tour takes you past carefully arranged walls of bones and skulls, creating patterns that are both artistic and haunting. It’s macabre, yes, but also deeply movingโa powerful meditation on history and our shared humanity.
This is one of Paris’s most popular underground attractions, so planning ahead is essential. We recommend booking your Catacombs Tour tickets including Seine River cruise here well in advance. The combination ticket is brilliant value and saves you from standing in those infamous queues. Find more detailed Catacombs visiting tips on GoTravelHunt to make the most of your underground adventure.
Create Your Own Parisian Perfume
Paris has been the perfume capital of the world for centuries, and creating your own signature scent makes for an incredibly personal souvenir. Imagine bringing home not just a bottle, but a fragrance you designed yourself, capturing your Paris memories in every note.
For a comprehensive experience, try this 2-hour class at the famous Maison Molinard. Expert perfumers guide you through the art of scent composition, teaching you about top, middle, and base notes. You’ll blend different essences until you’ve created something uniquely yours, then take home a 50ml bottle of your creation.
Short on time? The Fragonard Perfume Museum in Paris offers a 45-minute mini-workshop where you’ll create a 12ml Eau de Toilette. This shorter class is perfect for fitting into a packed itinerary and is also available on the Go City Paris pass. Find more Perfume workshop experiences on GoTravelHunt to find the perfect class for you.
Hunt for Treasure in Covered Passages & Flea Markets
Shopping in Paris doesn’t have to mean designer boutiques on the Champs-รlysรฉes. Some of the city’s most enchanting retail therapy happens in its 19th-century covered passagesโglass-roofed arcades that once served as neat shopping destinations for Paris’s elite.
These 21 passages feature ornate architecture, mosaic floors, and vintage storefronts housing quirky boutiques, cozy cafรฉs, and artisanal shops. Walking through them feels like stepping into a different era, away from the hustle of modern Paris. They’re particularly magical on rainy days when natural light filters through the glass roofs. You can read about where to find the best covered passages here.
For serious treasure hunters, the Puces de Saint-Ouen near Porte de Clignancourt is legendary. With over 3,000 dealers spread across multiple markets, it’s one of the world’s largest antique markets. You’ll find everything from vintage Chanel to Art Deco furniture, from old maps to retro vinyl records. Arrive early on Saturday or Sunday morning for the best selection.
Don’t overlook the bouquinistes along the Seine, either. These green book stalls have been a Parisian institution for 300 years, selling vintage books, old posters, and prints. It’s browsing at its most romantic, with the river flowing beside you and Notre-Dame in the background. Our Covered passages and flea market guide on GoTravelHunt has all the insider tips you need.
Find nice things to do in Paris at night on a Seine River Cruise
When darkness falls, Paris earns its nickname as the City of Light all over again. The monuments illuminate, the bridges glow, and the entire city seems to sparkle. A Seine River cruise at night captures this magic perfectly and ranks among the most romantic nice things to do in Paris.
You can get entry tickets for this top selling one hour Seine River cruise that departs right in front of the Eiffel Tower. As you glide along the water, you’ll pass the illuminated facades of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Musรฉe d’Orsay, and countless beautiful bridges. The commentary provides fascinating historical context, but honestly, sometimes it’s best to just sit back and soak it all in.
For a more luxurious evening, consider booking a dinner cruise on the Seine with live music. Imagine enjoying French cuisine while the city’s most beautiful monuments drift past your window. Or make it truly special with a champagne tasting cruise along the Seine, toasting to your Paris adventure as the Eiffel Tower sparkles on the hour. Browse more Seine River cruise ideas on GoTravelHunt to find your perfect floating evening.
Your Guide to Planning the Perfect Paris Trip
Planning a Paris trip doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a bit of practical knowledge about transportation, accommodation, and money-saving options, you’ll be set up for an incredible adventure filled with nice things to do in Paris.
Getting Around Paris Efficiently
One of the things we love most about Paris is how walkable it is. There’s something magical about strolling through its streets, stumbling upon hidden courtyards and charming cafรฉs. But when your feet need a rest or you’re covering longer distances, Paris offers plenty of efficient options.
The Paris Mรฉtro is our go-to recommendation for most visitors. It’s safe, efficient, remarkably easy to steer, and tickets cost around โฌ1.90 per trip. The system connects all corners of the city, and you’ll quickly feel like a local as you zip from arrondissement to arrondissement. For first-time visitors who want to get their bearings while covering major sights, a Hop On Hop Off Bus tour can be a strategic choice, especially since it’s often included in city passes and doubles as transportation between attractions.
If you’re feeling adventurous, bicycles offer a wonderful way to explore Paris at your own pace. There’s nothing quite like gliding along the banks of the Seine with the wind in your hair and the city unfolding around you. You can book a guided bicycle tour here to find routes you might otherwise miss. For something truly memorable and uniquely Parisian, consider a vintage sidecar tour here, which offers an unforgettable perspective on the city.
After a long flight, the last thing you want is to struggle with public transportation and luggage. We recommend arranging a private transfer from Charles de Gaulle airport to start your trip stress-free. For more detailed advice on navigating the city, check out our Paris transportation tips on GoTravelHunt.
Where to Stay for the Best Parisian Experience
The neighborhood you choose can transform your entire Paris experience. After years of visiting and guiding travelers, we’ve developed a special fondness for Saint-Germain and Le Marais, both of which put you right in the heart of authentic Parisian life.
Saint-Germain, located in the 6th arrondissement on the Left Bank, captures everything romantic about Paris. This neat district is steeped in literary history, with charming cafรฉs where philosophers once debated and upscale boutiques lining tree-shaded streets. We’ve stayed at the absolutely gorgeous Hotel l’Abbaye, a boutique hotel that feels like a secret garden tucked away from the world, yet you’re within a short stroll of adorable cafรฉs and bistros. Another fabulous option is Hotel Au Manoir, also in Saint-Germain, which offers that perfect blend of comfort and Parisian charm.
Le Marais, spanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, gives you a completely different flavor of Paris. Here, medieval architecture meets contemporary cool, with trendy shops, art galleries, and lively cafรฉs filling its narrow streets. We’ve enjoyed staying at boutique hotels like Le Pavillon de la Reine, which overlooks the beautiful Place des Vosges, and the adorable Hรดtel du Petit Moulin, a former bakery transformed into a design hotel.
If you prefer more space to spread out or you’re traveling with family, apartment rentals through sites like Homelike offer comfortable, well-equipped options across Paris. Having a kitchen can be wonderful for enjoying those market finds from your picnic adventures! Explore more Paris hotel recommendations on GoTravelHunt.
Making the Most of Your Trip with a City Pass
When you’re planning to tick off multiple attractions, a city pass can be a genuinely smart investment, saving you both money and precious vacation time standing in queues. Options like the Go City Pass and the Paris Museum Pass grant access to a wide range of museums, landmarks, and tours, often with the bonus of faster entry that lets you skip those notorious Paris lines.
The key to getting real value from a pass is matching it to your actual plans. We recommend sitting down with your itinerary and checking which attractions you genuinely want to visit against what’s included in each pass. Some travelers find passes pay for themselves after just three or four major attractions, while others might be better off buying individual tickets. Our Paris city pass tips on GoTravelHunt walk you through the comparison to help you decide which option makes the most sense for your specific trip. After all, vacation time is too valuable to waste on poor planning!
Frequently Asked Questions About Nice Things to Do in Paris
What are the absolute must-do activities for a first-time visitor?
If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, we want to help you focus on experiences that capture the city’s true magic. Seeing the Eiffel Tower is essentialโwhether you choose to ascend it or simply admire it from the Champ de Mars with a picnic. The Louvre Museum deserves at least a few hours of your time, even if you only glimpse the Mona Lisa and a handful of other masterpieces.
We always recommend taking a Seine River Cruise to see the city’s landmarks from the water, especially as the sun sets and the lights begin to twinkle. Exploring Montmartre and climbing the steps to Sacrรฉ-Cลur gives you both artistic charm and spectacular views. And honestly? Some of the most memorable nice things to do in Paris are the simplest: biting into a fresh, buttery croissant from a local pรขtisserie, savoring a perfectly crafted macaron, and settling into an outdoor cafรฉ with a coffee or aperitif to watch Parisian life unfold around you.
These experiences, more than any checklist, will give you the essence of Paris and create memories that linger long after you’ve returned home.
What are some nice things to do in Paris that are free?
One of the beautiful surprises about Paris is how many wonderful experiences cost absolutely nothing. You can spend an entire afternoon strolling through parks like the Jardin du Luxembourg, Place des Vosges, or Champ de Mars, soaking in the atmosphere without spending a euro. Window shopping through the boutiques of Le Marais or along the neat streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prรฉs is a delightful way to experience Parisian style and architecture.
While Notre-Dame undergoes reconstruction, admiring its exterior and the surrounding รle de la Citรฉ remains a powerful experience. Walking along the Seine is perhaps the most romantic free activityโyou can browse the vintage books at the bouquinistes’ stalls, cross beautiful bridges, and simply enjoy the river’s timeless charm.
For something more colorful, find Rue Crรฉmieux in the 12th arrondissement, a pedestrian street lined with brightly painted houses that’s become an Instagram favorite. The Bibliotheque National de la France Richelieu offers a stunning interior that looks straight out of “Beauty & the Beast,” and it’s free to enter. And don’t miss the views from the steps of Sacrรฉ-Cลurโthey’re completely free and offer one of the most spectacular panoramas of the entire city.
Is it worth it to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the honest answer is: it depends on what you’re looking for! If ascending the Eiffel Tower has been a lifelong dream, then yes, absolutely go for it. The sensation of standing at the top of this iconic monument, with Paris spread out beneath you, is genuinely special and creates a bucket-list memory.
That said, many visitors find the second floor offers equally spectacular views with a better perspective and often fewer crowds than the summit. From here, you can still see the entire city laid out before you, and you’re close enough to distinguish individual landmarks and neighborhoods.
Some travelers argue that the best views are actually of the Eiffel Tower rather than from itโvantage points like the Arc de Triomphe, Place du Trocadero, or the rooftop of the Institut du Monde Arabe let you capture the iconic tower in your photos and memories. Consider what matters most to you: the experience of being inside the monument, or the perfect photograph with it.
Whichever you choose, the key is to book your tickets for the Eiffel Tower well in advance. This ensures you avoid lengthy queues and secure your preferred time slot, making it one of the smoothest nice things to do in Paris on your itinerary.
Conclusion
Paris truly lives up to its reputation as the City of Light, and as Audrey Hepburn wisely said, “Paris is always a good idea.” This remarkable city offers something special for every type of traveler, whether you’re drawn to world-famous landmarks, hidden neighborhood gems, mouthwatering cuisine, or unique cultural experiences that you’ll treasure forever.
Throughout this guide, we’ve shared our favorite nice things to do in Paris, from smart ways to experience the Eiffel Tower without the crowds to mastering the art of a perfect Parisian picnic in Luxembourg Gardens. We’ve explored artistic Montmartre’s cobbled streets, digd into the trendy boutiques of Le Marais, and even ventured underground into the mysterious Catacombs. Each experience offers its own slice of Parisian magic.
The beauty of Paris is that it rewards both careful planning and spontaneous wandering. Yes, booking those skip-the-line tickets will save you hours at the Louvre, but some of your most memorable moments might come from an unplanned cafรฉ stop or stumbling upon a hidden passage. Paris invites you to accept both approaches.
At GoTravelHunt, we’re passionate about helping you create unforgettable travel experiences without the stress of scattered bookings or overpriced tourist traps. We believe travel should be easy, affordable, and deeply rewarding. Whether this is your first visit or your tenth return to Paris, we’re here to ensure every moment counts.
Ready to start planning your Parisian adventure? Explore more Things to Do in Paris and let us help you craft the perfect itinerary. Your unforgettable journey to the City of Light awaits, and we can’t wait to be part of making it extraordinary.
