Paris is the capital of France, the City of Lights, home of the Eiffel Tower and more. This amazing city with the combination of museums and attractions with the architectural beauty of the city, it's no wonder that Paris — thought of fondly as a romantic locale — has been a hub for artists and a popular travel destination throughout recent history. Its range is legendary: Go underground into the depths of the city in the Catacombs, or reach great heights at the top of the Eiffel Tower. Roam neighborhoods like Montmartre simply to admire your surroundings, and then head down the River Seine on a short cruise through the center of Paris.
I loved my time in the city, so I've compiled a list of the best things to do in Paris to help you plan you vacation. Whether you are traveling as a family with kids, taking a romantic vacation, visiting with friends or traveling solo, you’ll have a great Paris trip no matter your travel style.
1. Head to the Arc de Triomphe
Along with the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe is an iconic landmark in Paris. It's located in the middle of a traffic circle at the top of the Avenue Champs-Élysées. Of course you can admire the monument from the outside, as it's one of the top free things you can do in Paris, but if you want to go inside on a self-guided or guided tour, you'll have to purchase admission. All tickets include views from the top of the arch.
The Arc de Triomphe was originally commissioned in 1805 by Napoleon Bonaparte to honor the military and mark their victories. Since the arch wasn't completed before he lost power, and Louis VIII took the throne, it was 30 years before the arch was completed, going through periods of ceased construction and evolved meanings as rulers died or lost power. The Arc de Triomphe was inaugurated in 1836 as a monument to the French military with the base inscribed with names of battles and generals.
2. Visit the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre
Atop a hill in the Montmartre neighborhood of Paris stands Basilique du Sacré-Coer de Montmartre, a Catholic church made of white stone topped with domes. Inside the church are mosaics with a religious theme, and visitors can go up into a dome for views of the city. The church is free to enter, but visitors should be aware that it's a functioning church that holds several masses daily. Church officials ask visitors to remain quiet while inside and to dress appropriately. A specific dress code is not provided, but Catholic churches generally require those who enter to wear clothing covering shoulders, midriffs and knees.
Free audio tours are available via smartphones that have access to the Internet. You must bring your own headphones to take part in the audio tour.
3. Stop at a Boulangerie
Boulangerie is the French word for bakery, and you'll find them all over Paris. Visiting at least one during your trip is must-do in Paris. In the morning, they are popular spots for Parisians to grab a coffee and a croissant. At these delightful bakeries, you'll find baguettes, sandwiches and other savory concoctions as well as desserts like fruit tarts and madeleines. If you are out and about on a beautiful day, consider stopping at a boulangerie and grabbing a sandwich to eat in one of Paris's many parks. I still dream of the ham and cheese sandwich (jambon et fromage) from the boulangerie near my hotel in Montmartre. It was ham, gruyere, and boiled egg slices with lettuce and tomato — simple but absolutely delectable.
4. Picnic in Champs de Mars Park (Parc du Champ-de-Mars)
The iconic Champs de Mars is in many photos and featured on many postcards of Paris. The park is at the base of the Eiffel Tower and stretches to École Militaire. It's a popular picnic spot for both Parisians and tourists. Champs de Mars first opened in 1780, and during the 1900 Olympics in Paris, it was the setting for the saber and fencing tournaments, and for the 2024 Paris Olympics, a temporary arena on the green space is host to the judo and wrestling tournaments. When touring Paris yourself, the park is a great spot to stop and relax with a light lunch on the green while admiring the city and people-watching.
Suggested activity: Paris Private Food Tour with your Friendly Local Guides
5. Cruise on the River Seine
I always enjoy a sightseeing boat cruise, and the cruises on the River Seine are no exception. Choose from several operators offering a narrated tour. My midday cruise in December included landmarks like the Louvre Palace and the Eiffel Tower while the sun was out, and the weather was comfortable. Night cruises are an excellent alternative if you want to experience a romantic thing to do in the City of Lights — complete with the Eiffel Tower lit up with glittering lights. Dinner cruises are also offered.
If you the like the idea of seeing Paris and other places in Europe via a multiday river cruise, check out our list of best European river cruises.
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6. Climb or Ride to the Top of the Eiffel Tower
In preparation for the 1889 Universal Exposition (aka a world's fair) in Paris, designs for a grand entrance to the fair were submitted, and the committee chose the plans by bridge engineer Gustave Eiffel. In just over 2 years, the 984-foot-tall, wrought iron Eiffel Tower was constructed. It was the first of its kind and was the world’s tallest human-built structure until New York's Chrysler Building was built in 1929. While many Parisians initially detested the tower because it loomed over the city as an incongruous black structure, the Eiffel Tower has become one of the world's most famous landmarks and receives some 6 million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular things to do in Paris.
The Eiffel Tower has three floors — first, second and top. The top floor has an observation deck at 906 feet and a Champagne bar so visitors can enjoy a glass of bubbly with their panoramic views. The second floor, at 381 feet, has a macaron bar, shops, a buffet and the Michelin-star Le Jules Verne restaurant; make reservations separate from your entry ticket if you wish to dine here. The first floor, at 187 feet, features Madame Brasserie restaurant and museum displays about the Eiffel Tower.
If you wish to go up the Eiffel Tower, purchase your tickets ahead of time, and pay close attention to the ticket options. All tickets include the first floor. Ticket options include the second floor only or the top and second floor. You also have to decide if you want to climb the stairs to the second floor or pay extra to ride the elevator to the second floor. All tickets to the top floor include elevator access from the second floor to the top.
7. Shop at Galeries Lafayette
I was delighted by my visit to Galeries Lafayette during my trip to Paris. The eight-story building was constructed in 1912 and features many beautiful elements, including a large glass dome that can be seen from all the floors. The window displays — both inside and out — are a feast for the eyes.
On lower levels, you'll find high-end designer clothing like those seen on runways as well as more ready-to-wear clothing. If you love fashion and are looking to snag a deal, then head toward the Restore in Galeries Lafayette, where second-hand designer clothes are for sale at much cheaper prices than the designer goods sold on the lower levels.
Even if you aren't a big shopper, this can be a fun thing to do in Paris. The top floor has cafes as well as gifts and souvenirs. You'll also find packaged chocolates and other sweet treats. From the top floor, you can access the roof for free views of Paris looking out toward the Eiffel Tower.
Suggested activity: Fashion Show at Galeries Lafayette Paris
8. Wander Around Île de la Cité
If you go to visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or Sainte-Chapelle, take some time to roam the street of Île de la Cité. It is one of the small islands in the middle of the River Seine in the center of Paris. Taking time to walk the streets and admire your surroundings is such a fun thing to do in Paris. You can easily access the Île de la Cité from the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris. Notable sights on your tour include a statue of Henry IV, who ordered the construction of the bridge, the Place Dauphine and the river path at the water level.
If time allows, also visit the Deportation Martyrs Memorial. It's free to enter and is a remembrance of the 200,000 French citizens who were deported to German concentration camps by Nazi troops. Another place that marks a bloody time in French history is the Conciergerie. Originally built in the 14th century as part of the Palais de la Cité, it became a prison during the French Revolution in the late 18th century housing poor citizens as well as notable political figures such as Marie Antoinette before her execution.
Suggested activity: Paris: Notre Dame Island Tour & Sainte-Chapelle Entrance Ticket
9. See the Sights in the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is another Paris neighborhood where you should carve out some time on your itinerary to simply stroll the streets, pop in and out of shops, and people-watch. This part of Paris exudes charm with gorgeous architecture, relaxing parks and historic landmarks. Also, exploring such neighborhoods is a free thing to do in Paris. Some key landmarks to see in the Latin Quarter include the Place Saint-Michel, with a monumental fountain of the same name; the Shakespeare & Company bookstore; and the Church of Saint-Séverin. There's also the Jardin des Plantes, a lovely garden where you can also find the National History Museum and the Ménagerie, a zoo.
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10. Admire Art in the Louvre
The Louvre is an amazing and enormous museum that is on many a Paris lover's itinerary and for good reason. Most notably, the Louvre houses the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci along with rooms full of Renaissance paintings, ancient Greek sculptures, and artifacts from Ancient Egypt, including giant sculptures and carvings, ornate sarcophagi and pottery. If there are any works of art that you are interested in seeing or styles of art or artists, then make a plan before visiting. I didn't have a plan when I went, and I found myself completely overwhelmed, even if I did enjoy the experience immensely.
If seeing the Mona Lisa is on your list of things to do in Paris — like many other visitors to the city — it's best to book a ticket to the Louvre for the opening hour. Arrive on time, and head straight to the painting. Unless you are traveling during the offseason, the crowds in front of Mona Lisa tend to be large, and it can take people more than an hour to reach the front. I'd also encourage you to temper your expectations. You should absolutely go see the painting if you want, however, know that it is small and well-protected. Because of its history of successful and attempted thefts and vandalism, the painting is under glass and behind a barricade preventing museumgoers from getting too close.
Audio guides and guided tours are available for a fee. Guided tours can be booked when purchasing your tickets online. Purchase timed tickets ahead of your visit to minimize time in line at the entry.
Suggested activity: Louvre Museum and guided tour
11. Stroll Through the Luxembourg Garden (Jardin du Luxembourg)
The luscious green space Luxembourg Garden is a must-do outdoor activity in Paris. The garden is about 60 acres with some 50,000 square feet dedicated to flower beds. Stroll down the gravel paths to enjoy the blooms, view the many statues and relax at any of several seating areas, perhaps with a baguette purchased from a nearby bakery. A notable feature in Luxembourg Garden is the Médicis Fountain, built in the 17th century.
Suggested activity: Small-Group Luxembourg Gardens Walking Tour in Paris
12. Tour Le Marais
One of the must-see neighborhoods in Paris is Le Marais. Spend time wandering through the neighborhood, touring museums, heading in and out of boutiques, admiring the architecture and eating your way through the area. Some of the museums include Maison de Victor Hugo, the former home of the Le Misérables author; the Pompidou Center, a museum with a massive collection of modern and contemporary art; and the Musée Picasso, displaying art by Pablo Picasso. It also has tons of shopping from luxury brand boutiques to vintage goods. You'll also find plenty of galleries, a great way to view art for free, and antique stores. Both are great places to look for unique souvenirs to commemorate your trip.
As you make your way through Le Marais, pay attention to the buildings. You can view 17th-century mansions and stop at Hôtel de Ville, the 19th-century, neo-Renaissance building, where the Council of Paris meets.
In addition to all the many things Le Marais has to offer, it's also an LGBTQ+-friendly destination in Paris that has several gay and lesbian bars.
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13. Feel Like a Local in Montmartre
The Montmartre district in Paris is where I stayed during my visit. I found the area to be a picturesque place to wander up and down the hilly streets, looking into shop windows and stepping into bakeries to buy delicious sandwiches and tasty, freshly baked treats. I stopped at a real estate office window to look at postings of high-end Parisian apartments for sale and marvel at the displays in flower shops. In the afternoons in Montmartre, you’ll be joined by parents and au pairs walking children home from school. It felt like a living, breathing neighborhood. It's no mystery why the area was used as the setting for the whimsical 2001 film "Amélie." Montmartre also is well-known for its hills and as the location of Moulin Rouge, which has been entertaining guests for over 100 years.
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14. Take the Audio Tour at the Musée d'Orsay
If you love impressionist art, put Musée d'Orsay on your itinerary. The museum is a unique thing to do in Paris because of its history as a former train station that was remodeled to handle the influx of travelers coming to the city for the 1900 Paris Exposition. The museum opened in its opulent setting in 1986. One of the first things I noticed when entering was the corridor at the entrance filled with stunning sculptures under a tall, arched glass ceiling. On either side of the corridor and on the upper floors, you'll find rooms filled with paintings and photographs. The museum specializes in impressionist and post-impressionist art from the mid-19th century into the 20th century. Get the audio guide for additional context and information about the art and artists on display at the museum.
Suggested activity: Orsay Museum with Optional Seine River Cruise Tickets
15. Marvel at the Art in Musée Rodin
Located near the Eiffel Tower, the Rodin Museum houses and displays sculptures and works by Auguste Rodin displaying well-known masterpieces including "The Thinker" and "The Kiss." Some of the works are housed in an 18th-century mansion while others are on display in the seven-acre garden divided into sections and themes. On a tour of the museum, in addition to viewing the art on display, you can learn about Rodin's artistic process.
Tickets for the museum can be purchased online, and audio guides are available for an additional fee.
Suggested activity: Rodin Museum and Seine River Cruise Tickets
16. Learn about History at Napoleon's Tomb at the Army Museum (Musée de l'Armée)
History lovers should consider adding the Army Museum to their Paris itinerary. It's located in the Hôtel National des Invalides which was constructed at the behest of Louis the XIV, the Sun King, for military veterans. The building is recognizable by its shining gilded dome. The museum's permanent collection is arranged in chronological order detailing France's military history. You can see arms and armor from the 13th to 17th centuries, displays about Napoleon and his military, and exhibits about both world wars. Though it wasn't his original resting place, Napoleon's tomb also is located here and open to visitors of the museum.
Tickets can be purchased online or in person. Purchasing tickets online can save time if there is a line at the ticket counter. Guided tours are available for an additional fee.
17. Don't Miss the Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris)
One of the most famous churches in Europe, Notre Dame Cathedral has attracted visitors from around the world. The cathedral was first built during the Middle Ages in the 12th century with elements added during the 13th and 14th centuries. The beautiful Gothic architecture with ornate spires and flying buttresses are iconic parts of this Paris landmark. It is one of the best free things to do in Paris, and it was restored following a fire in 2019. While the church is free to enter, to avoid long lines and ensure entry, make a reservation ahead of your visit. Reservations can be made a few days ahead of your visit.
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18. Take a Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles
While the Palace of Versailles is outside of Paris, it remains a popular day trip from Paris. The palace's storied history starts with it being a chateau used as a hunting lodge for royals. It was first turned into a palace in the 17th century under the reign of King Louis XIV. Since then, Versailles has experienced periods of prestige and of neglect. During the reign of King Louis XVI in the 18th century, the palace became a symbol of royal excess as tensions rose, culminating in the French Revolution. The Palace of Versailles entered the world's consciousness in World War I when the Treaty of Versailles was signed in the palace's Hall of Mirrors, officially ending the years-long war.
Today, visitors from all over visit the palace touring the opulent rooms meant for royal life and entertainment. You'll see glittering gold features, murals on the ceilings, magnificent paintings and other works of art. The king's apartments are marked by dark rich reds, textured wallpapers and stunning wood flooring. The queen's apartments, decorated to suit the tastes of Marie Antoinette, feature a much lighter feel with elaborate floral wallpaper and rooms that allow more sunlight. Also at the estate are gardens and the Estate of Trianon.
Book your timed ticket ahead of your visit to minimize wait times. Tickets for the palace only as well as tickets that include the palace, the Estate of Trianon and the gardens are available. Audio guides are an additional cost and should be booked when you purchasing admission, or you can download the Palace of Versailles app. Guided tours of parts of the palace otherwise inaccessible to the public are also available.
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19. Go Underground in the Paris Catacombs
During my visit to Paris, the Catacombs ended up being the most surprising and unique attraction that I visited. The Catacombs began in 1785. There were growing concerns about the overcrowding in cemeteries contributing to the spread of disease. Bones were exhumed and relocated to the catacombs. Once underground, you'll see walls made of tibias and skulls; behind the walls are the remaining bones that make up human skeletons entombed here. Markers denote sections by the date the remains were placed in the Catacombs.
Buy tickets for the Paris Catacombs ahead of your visit; tickets are not sold in person. Tickets also include an audio guide. The Catacombs require visitors to walk 131 stairs underground, and the route underground is just under a mile. The exit is in a different location than the entrance and will require walking up stairs to exit. Also, the ceiling gets low at some points. I'm six feet tall and had to duck a few times to pass through areas.
20. Eat Pastries from a Pâtisserie
Let your stomach lead your way through Paris, one of the best places to visit in Europe, and shop for pastries at a French pâtisserie. At these shops, you'll find fancy desserts like opera cake, a cake with layers of almond and coffee flavors with chocolate ganache, and mille-feuille, slices of crispy puff pastry with pastry cream filling and topped with icing. Also try a dessert made with choux pastry like a religieuse, two choux pastries filled with buttercream, stacked on top of each other and decorated with chocolate to resemble a nun. The sweet treats at the patisseries are as enjoyable to look at as they are to eat.
21. Walk Through the Père Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetière du Père-Lachaise)
A quiet but popular thing to do in Paris is visit the Père Lachaise Cemetery. This active cemetery dates back to 1804 and contains graves of many notable figures including Frédéric Chopin, Jean de la Fontaine, Molière, Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde. The 106-acre cemetery has mausoleums, statues and elaborate gravestones. On your visit, whether touring on your own or with a guide, be mindful that this is an active cemetery, and guests are asked both to be respectful of the peaceful atmosphere and also not to disturb funerals.
Suggested activity: Famous Graves of Père Lachaise Guided Tour
22. Gaze at the Stained Glass in Sainte-Chapelle
While Sainte-Chapelle is small compared to cathedrals that typically draw interest from tourists; the chapel garners its popularity from the amount of magnificent stained glass. Louis IX, also commonly known as Saint Louis, had the chapel built in the 13th century as a prestigious place to hold important religious relics. When you visit Sainte-Chapelle, you'll join the line for your timed ticket, and once through security, you'll enter the lower chapel. This small, simple space was originally meant as a place of worship for palace staff. Once upstairs in the upper chapel, you'll be met with large stained-glass windows complemented with columns decorated with gold gilding. There are 15 quite large stained-glass windows with detailed imagery depicting 1,113 scenes from the Christian Bible.
Purchase timed tickets ahead of your visit. Audio guides must be purchased on-site.
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23. Follow in the Footsteps of Artists at the Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
American expats as well as other English language artists and tourists have found a booklover's haven at Shakespeare and Company. The first rendition of the store was founded by Sylvia Beach in 1919 and saw visitors like F. Scott Fitzgerald, James Joyce and Gertrude Stein. Unfortunately, the shop shut down in World War II when Nazi troops occupied France. The legacy was revived by George Whitman in 1964 when he opened a store using Beach's model. Whitman welcomed traveling artists — offering them a place to sleep in exchange for some help around the store and a one-page autobiography, which has grown into an archive of some 30,000 short bios of artists who have passed through the store.
Today, Whitman's daughter Sylvia Whitman runs Shakespeare and Company, continuing the legacy of assisting traveling artists as well as serving English-speaking expats, tourists and booklovers looking for literature. The store frequently hosts authors on book promotion tours, book and poetry readings, and other events. Check the store's event calendar for details.
Tips for Planning Your Paris Vacation
If you are traveling with kids, check the museum entry costs on the museum website. Most museums and many attractions allow free entry for everyone under age 18 with proof of identification. Check ahead, because even visitors with free entry have to reserve an entry time at some attractions.
Another money-saving measure is the Paris Museum Pass and the Go City Paris pass, a good idea whether taking a short trip to Paris or spending a few weeks. These passes include entry to many of the most popular sights to see in Paris as well as some experiences at a discount. If you use one of these passes, check to see if any of the attractions you plan to visit require a reservation. The museums and attractions with the highest traffic, especially in the peak summer months, still will require you to reserve a time.
Whether it’s your first time visiting Paris or you are planning to return, there are some handy international travel tips to help your trip go smoothly. A notable upcoming change is coming in late 2026 when most American and Canadian citizen will be required to apply for a an ETIAS before visiting countries in the European, including France.