Paris is one of the world’s most captivating cities, known for its iconic landmarks, historic neighborhoods, incredible food, museums, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or returning for another adventure, there is always something new to discover.
From seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night to exploring charming streets in Montmartre, Paris offers experiences for every type of traveler.
If you’re planning a trip, here are 15 of the best things to do in Paris to add to your itinerary.
1. Visit the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower.
Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, this iconic landmark has become one of the most recognizable sights in the world. You can admire it from the surrounding gardens, visit its viewing levels, or enjoy the spectacular views across Paris from above.
For a memorable experience, consider visiting around sunset and staying until the tower lights up after dark.
Don’t miss: Trocadéro Gardens for one of the best viewpoints of the Eiffel Tower.
2. Explore the Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most famous museums and one of the top attractions in Paris.
Inside, you’ll find an enormous collection of art and historical objects spanning thousands of years. The museum is home to famous works including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace.
The Louvre is huge, so don’t try to see everything in one visit. Choose the collections you’re most interested in and plan your route beforehand.
Travel tip: A guided tour can help you see the museum’s highlights without spending hours figuring out where to go.
3. Take a Seine River Cruise
Looking for a relaxing way to see Paris? Take a Seine River cruise.
Cruising along the Seine gives you a different perspective of some of Paris’s most famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame, and historic bridges.
A daytime cruise is great for sightseeing, while an evening cruise offers a more romantic atmosphere as Paris begins to sparkle.
Best for: Couples, first-time visitors, families, and photographers.
4. Discover Montmartre
Montmartre is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris.
Once home to famous artists, the neighborhood is known for its narrow streets, cafés, artists’ squares, and beautiful views of the city.
Take your time exploring the neighborhood before heading up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which sits at the highest point in Paris.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes because Montmartre has plenty of stairs and steep streets.
5. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is one of Paris’s most important historic landmarks.
Located on Île de la Cité, the Gothic cathedral has played a major role in Parisian history for centuries. Visitors can admire its impressive architecture and explore the surrounding historic area.
After visiting Notre-Dame, take a walk along the Seine and explore the nearby streets of central Paris.
6. Walk Along the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous avenues in Paris.
The broad avenue connects Place de la Concorde with the Arc de Triomphe and is lined with shops, cafés, restaurants, and landmarks.
Walk along the avenue and continue toward the Arc de Triomphe for a classic Paris sightseeing experience.
7. See the Arc de Triomphe
Standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is another must-see Paris landmark.
You can admire the monument from street level or climb to the top for panoramic views of Paris.
From above, you’ll see several major avenues extending outward from the monument, creating one of the city’s most impressive urban views.
8. Explore the Latin Quarter
For a taste of historic Paris, spend some time exploring the Latin Quarter.
Located on the Left Bank of the Seine, this lively neighborhood is filled with cafés, bookshops, historic buildings, and narrow streets.
It’s also a great place to stop for lunch or dinner while exploring central Paris.
9. Visit the Musée d’Orsay
Art lovers should add the Musée d’Orsay to their Paris itinerary.
The museum is particularly famous for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, with works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh.
The museum itself is also worth seeing—the building occupies a former railway station with its famous giant clock.
10. Experience Parisian Food
One of the best ways to experience Paris is through its food.
Try classic French favorites such as:
- Croissants
- Crêpes
- French cheeses
- Baguettes
- Macarons
- French pastries
- Steak frites
- French wine
For a deeper experience, consider joining a Paris food tour. Local guides can introduce you to neighborhood bakeries, markets, cheese shops, cafés, and other culinary spots.
Deal Departure tip: Food tours are especially useful if you want to discover Paris beyond the major tourist attractions.
11. Explore the Palace of Versailles
If you have an extra day in your itinerary, take a day trip from Paris to Versailles.
The Palace of Versailles is famous for its lavish interiors, historic significance, Hall of Mirrors, and enormous gardens.
Because Versailles is outside central Paris, joining a guided tour or organized day trip can make the visit easier, particularly for first-time travelers.
12. Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
Need a break from sightseeing?
Head to the Luxembourg Gardens.
These beautiful gardens are perfect for a relaxing walk, taking photographs, reading a book, or simply enjoying a slower afternoon in Paris.
It’s an excellent addition to your itinerary when you want some downtime between museums and major attractions.
13. Discover the Marais
The Marais is one of Paris’s most interesting neighborhoods to explore on foot.
You’ll find historic architecture, boutiques, cafés, galleries, and lively streets throughout the area.
It’s a great place to wander without a strict itinerary and discover some of the city’s local character.
14. Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle at Night
You’ve seen the Eiffel Tower during the day—now see it after dark.
The tower’s nighttime illumination creates one of the most memorable sights in Paris. Find a comfortable spot around Trocadéro, Champ de Mars, or along the Seine and enjoy the view.
Pairing an evening Eiffel Tower view with a Seine dinner cruise can make for a particularly memorable Paris experience.
15. Take a Paris Walking Tour
Finally, one of the best ways to understand Paris is simply to walk through it with a knowledgeable local guide.
Walking tours can take you through historic neighborhoods and introduce you to stories, architecture, food, and hidden corners that you might otherwise miss.
Depending on your interests, you can find tours focused on:
- Historic Paris
- Montmartre
- Food and wine
- Art and culture
- The Latin Quarter
- Hidden Paris
- Photography
Best Things to Do in Paris: Quick Guide
| Experience | Best For |
|---|---|
| Eiffel Tower | First-time visitors |
| Louvre Museum | Art & history |
| Seine River Cruise | Couples & sightseeing |
| Montmartre | Culture & photography |
| Notre-Dame | History & architecture |
| Champs-Élysées | Shopping & sightseeing |
| Arc de Triomphe | City views |
| Latin Quarter | Food & local atmosphere |
| Musée d’Orsay | Art lovers |
| Paris Food Tour | Foodies |
| Versailles | Day trips |
| Luxembourg Gardens | Relaxing |
| Le Marais | Walking & exploring |
| Eiffel Tower at Night | Couples & photography |
| Paris Walking Tour | First-time visitors |
How Many Days Do You Need in Paris?
For a first visit, 3 to 5 days in Paris gives you enough time to experience many of the city’s major attractions without rushing.
2 Days
Focus on the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Seine, Notre-Dame, and Montmartre.
3 Days
Add the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Latin Quarter, and a food experience.
4–5 Days
You can slow down your itinerary and add Versailles, Musée d’Orsay, Le Marais, and additional tours.
Plan Your Paris Trip With Deal Departure
Paris has something for everyone—from world-famous landmarks and museums to local food, charming neighborhoods, river cruises, and unforgettable day trips.
Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning to explore more, choosing the right Paris tours and experiences can make your trip even more memorable.
👉 Explore Paris Tours & Experiences →
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