Bonjour, bonsoir, or whatever time of day it is! Ready to get swept away in the magic of Paris? The City of Light beckons with its charm, culture, and irresistible allure. Paris is a special city, unlike any other place in the world. Just have a few days to explore? Let's embark on a journey through the top things to do, bag great deals, discover the perfect stays and eats, and arm you with essential tips for an unforgettable Parisian escapade in this amazing Paris city guide.
Things to Do: Parisian Delights
Paris Opera House (Palais Garnier): My favorite building in the entire world, you’ll feel like you stepped right into Phantom of the Opera. From the grand staircase to the mesmerizing Chagall ceiling, this architectural masterpiece is a feast for the senses.
Eiffel Tower: No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower. Take an elevator ride to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Louvre Museum: Explore the world's largest art museum and a historic monument. Don't miss the Mona Lisa (it’s surprisingly small in person) and the Venus de Milo.
Montmartre: Ascend the cobblestone streets of Montmartre, the bohemian heart of Paris. Explore the artistic legacy of this neighborhood, from the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica to the Place du Tertre.
Parisian Cabaret Show: Experience the glamour of a Parisian cabaret show, with options like the famous Moulin Rouge or Lido.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Climb to the top of Montmartre for breathtaking views of Paris. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a masterpiece of Romanesque-Byzantine architecture.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Admire the Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame, explore its interior, and enjoy the view of Paris from the towers.
Musée d'Orsay: Delve into the world of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces at this former railway station turned museum.
Seine River Cruise: Take a scenic cruise along the Seine River to witness the beauty of Paris and its landmarks from the water.
Pont des Arts Pedestrian Bridge: Seal your love by placing a padlock on the Pont des Arts pedestrian bridge overlooking the Seine, where couples traditionally secure locks as a symbol of their love.
Sainte-Chapelle: Marvel at the stunning stained glass windows of Sainte-Chapelle, located within the medieval Palais de la Cité.
Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe: Stroll down the Champs-Élysées, one of the world's most famous avenues, and reach the Arc de Triomphe for impressive city views.
Musée Rodin: Discover the works of the renowned sculptor Auguste Rodin, including his masterpiece "The Thinker," in the beautiful surroundings of the Rodin Museum.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Immerse yourself in the intellectual and artistic ambiance of this historic neighborhood. Visit cafés, bookshops, and art galleries.
Luxembourg Gardens: Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens, known for its beautiful fountains, flowerbeds, and the Luxembourg Palace.
Montparnasse Tower: Skip the lines at the Eiffel Tower and enjoy equally stunning views from the top of Montparnasse Tower.
Musée de l'Orangerie: Admire Monet's Water Lilies and other masterpieces in the tranquil setting of the Musée de l'Orangerie.
Le Marais: Wander through the charming streets of Le Marais, known for its historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife.
Canal Saint-Martin: Experience the bohemian atmosphere along the Canal Saint-Martin. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or a boat ride.
Les Catacombes de Paris: Explore the underground tunnels of the Catacombs of Paris, a fascinating and eerie experience.
Père Lachaise Cemetery: Visit the final resting place of famous personalities like Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf in this iconic cemetery.
Le Musée des Arts Forains: Discover fairground art and objects in this unique and offbeat museum.
Le Marais Food Tour: Indulge in a culinary adventure through the diverse flavors of Le Marais with a guided food tour.
Versailles Palace: Transport yourself to the grandeur of the French monarchy at the Palace of Versailles. Wander through the Hall of Mirrors and stroll in the breathtaking gardens.
Paris City Guide Deals: Treasures on a Budget
Paris Pass: Unlock access to multiple attractions, including the Louvre and Palace of Versailles, with the Paris Pass. It's a budget-friendly way to immerse yourself in the city's cultural treasures.
Lunch Menus: Savor the culinary delights of Paris without breaking the bank by opting for lunch menus at renowned restaurants. It's a delicious deal where you can enjoy the experience and then take it easy on dinner.
Free Museum Days: Many museums, including the Louvre, have free admission on the first Sunday of each month. Plan your visit accordingly to maximize savings.
Night at the Museum (Almost): On the first Saturday of each month, many museums, including the Louvre, offer free admission in the evening. It's an excellent opportunity to explore without the daytime crowds.
Where to Stay: Parisian Retreats
Le Marais: Immerse yourself in history in the charming Le Marais district. Boutique hotels like Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais offer an authentic Parisian experience.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Embrace the intellectual and artistic vibes of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Stay at Hotel Lutetia for a touch of luxury and proximity to iconic cafes.
Montmartre: Experience the artistic ambiance of Montmartre by staying at Hotel Particulier Montmartre. It's a hidden gem with a private garden.
Where to Eat: Parisian Gastronomy
Le Comptoir du Relais: Indulge in French culinary excellence at Le Comptoir du Relais in Saint-Germain. The cozy ambiance and delectable dishes make it a must-visit.
Le Jules Verne: Elevate your dining experience at Le Jules Verne in the Eiffel Tower. Savor gourmet cuisine with panoramic views of the city.
Angelina Paris: Treat yourself to the famous hot chocolate at Angelina Paris, a delightful tearoom near the Louvre.
Caviar Kaspia: Head to the Place de la Madeleine for this culinary haven. It’s been open since 1927, enticing the palates of discerning diners with its opulent caviar creations. Try the Caviar Topped Baked Potato- it’s iconic. See our recipe for making this special dish at home.
Latin Quarter: Some of my favorite meals were found in the Latin Quarter where you can often find Steak frites WITH wine on a budget.
Les Ombres Restaurant: Enjoy a meal with a view at Les Ombres, a restaurant located on the roof terrace of the Musée du Quai Branly. The Eiffel Tower provides a captivating backdrop.
What to Know: Parisian Realities
Public Restrooms: Public restrooms can be few and far between, but major landmarks like museums usually have facilities. Cafés may allow non-customers to use their restrooms if asked politely. Most public restrooms expect you to pay a fee to use it, so take advantage of any restaurant or cafe stop that doesn’t require payment. I found this out the hard way at 9 years old, when I snuck away from my parents to use les toilettes while they turned away to enjoy the view at the top of the Eiffel Tower. I was kept inside the restroom- again- at the top of the Eiffel Tower! because I didn’t have 6 francs to pay the restroom guard. My poor mom had no idea where I was and assumed I was kidnapped. She went back down to the base of the tower until someone took pity on me and paid my way out- 45 minutes later. True story.
Variations in Prices: Prices for attractions and dining can vary. Eating at a table outside may cost more than standing at the bar inside, and sometimes, ordering food in French instead of English will save you big bucks (brutal but true). Save by opting for early bird dinner specials and purchasing tickets online in advance.
Dogs Everywhere: Parisians love their dogs! Don't be surprised to find canine companions at restaurants and cafes. Be courteous and ask before interacting.
Pro Tips: Parisian Insider Insights Most People Don't Know
Not Everything is a Fortune: Visit local markets for budget-friendly souvenirs. Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen is a treasure trove of vintage finds.
Paris is a "Village": Despite being a bustling metropolis, Paris is made up of neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character. Explore areas like Le Marais, Canal Saint-Martin, and Belleville for a taste of local life.
Love for Cinema: Parisians love cinema, and you can find numerous small, independent cinemas throughout the city. Consider catching a French film for a unique cultural experience.
Art Beyond Museums: Street art flourishes in neighborhoods like Belleville and the 13th arrondissement. Take a street art tour to discover hidden gems and vibrant murals.
Parks and Gardens Galore: Paris is home to over 400 parks and gardens. While everyone knows about Luxembourg and Tuileries Gardens, explore Parc des Buttes-Chaumont for a more off-the-beaten-path experience.
Hidden Passages: Discover the city's "Passages Couverts" – covered walkways with charming shops and cafes. Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panoramas are among the most enchanting.
Local Markets: While everyone flocks to Rue Cler, a popular market street, venture to Marché d'Aligre for a more authentic and less touristy market experience.
Linguistic Courtesy: Attempt to speak a bit of French. While many Parisians speak English, making an effort to use a few French phrases is generally appreciated. Do this EVEN if you hear them speaking English. I learned this the hard way on the Metro trying to buy tickets with a slammed window in my face accompanied with a terse "Parle!"
Beyond Baguettes and Croissants: Parisian bakeries offer a variety of delicious pastries beyond the famous baguette and croissant. Try a pain au chocolat (my favorite!) or a tarte aux framboises for a delightful treat.
Café Culture: Parisians love their coffee, but the café experience is about more than just caffeine. It's a place to linger, people-watch, and enjoy the art of conversation.
Riverbank Revelry: The banks of the Seine transform into a vibrant social scene during the summer. Join locals for picnics, dance classes, and outdoor events along the river.
Paris Plages: In the summer, sections of the Seine's banks transform into temporary beaches. Enjoy the sand, sun, and various activities during Paris Plages.
Unique Museums: Beyond the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay, explore quirky museums like the Musée des Arts Forains, dedicated to fairground art and objects.
Water Stations for Dogs: Parisians love their dogs, and you'll find water stations throughout the city specifically designed for our four-legged friends. Don't forget to bring a water bottle for yourself!
Enjoy the View: Gorgeous Parisian Vistas
Seine Riverbank: Grab a bottle of wine and join the locals at the Seine Riverbanks for a picnic with a view of the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night.
Eiffel Tower: Start with the quintessential view of Paris from the Eiffel Tower. Whether you're on the observation decks or admiring it from the Champ de Mars, the cityscape is unparalleled.
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur: Climb to the top of Montmartre to the steps of Sacré-Cœur Basilica. From this elevated perch, you can enjoy a stunning view of the city, especially at sunset.
Free Views at Galeries Lafayette: For an incredible view of Paris without the price tag, head to the rooftop terrace of Galeries Lafayette. It's free and provides a stunning panorama of the city.
The Louvre Pyramid: Explore the courtyard of the Louvre, and marvel at the juxtaposition of the historic Louvre Palace and the modern glass pyramid. It's a captivating view, especially at night.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: Before the tragic fire, Notre-Dame Cathedral offered breathtaking views from its towers. While it's undergoing restoration, you can still appreciate the exterior and the Seine River.
Centre Pompidou Rooftop: Head to the top floor of the Centre Pompidou for a unique view of Paris. This contemporary art museum's rooftop terrace provides a different perspective of the city.
Arc de Triomphe: Climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for a spectacular view down the Champs-Élysées. The iconic structure also offers a prime spot for capturing the city's symmetry.
Seine River Cruise: Embark on a Seine River cruise to witness Paris from a different angle. Glide along the water, passing under charming bridges and by illuminated landmarks.
Shakespeare and Company Bookstore: For a literary view, visit the Shakespeare and Company bookstore near Notre-Dame. The rooftop terrace provides a cozy spot to enjoy the Seine and the Notre-Dame towers.
Musée d'Orsay Clock Terrace: Visit the Musée d'Orsay and take a moment on the clock terrace. This unique vantage point allows you to appreciate the Louvre, Sacré-Cœur, and the city's architectural beauty.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Escape the hustle and bustle at this picturesque park in the 19th arrondissement. The Temple de la Sibylle at the park's summit offers panoramic views of the city.
Les Ombres Restaurant: Enjoy a meal with a view at Les Ombres, a restaurant located on the roof terrace of the Musée du Quai Branly. The Eiffel Tower provides a captivating backdrop.
Printemps Haussmann Rooftop Terrace: Head to the rooftop terrace of the Printemps department store for a chic setting and stunning views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Opera Garnier.
Don’t Miss: Must-Dos in Paris
So this is a tough list to write, literally everything in Paris feels like a “don’t miss”, but if you have only a few hours in town (I’ve actually been to Paris with only 5 hours to play before), you don’t want to miss these top attractions..
Eiffel Tower: Iconic and unmissable, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Paris. Plus, everyone at home expects you to take the classic selfie, right?
Louvre Museum: This amazing museum is a MUST on your tour. Home to the famous Mona Lisa, the Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: A masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, Notre-Dame Cathedral is known for its stunning stained glass windows and panoramic views from the towers.
Paris Opera House (Palais Garnier): OK, if you’re not me, you may not have to go to the Paris Opera House, but if you’re lucky enough to be in town for a performance there, you’ll feel like you’re stepping back in time. Be advised, “proper attire” is expected and required for performances.
Paris Sunset: If you have time and are in the city at sunset, head to the steps of Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre. It's a magical moment as the city below bathes in a warm glow.
Skip It: Another Time- But Not Now
If you’re in a hurry, skip the long lines at the Eiffel Tower by opting for a Seine River cruise at sunset. The views are equally spectacular without the wait.
While it's fun to head to touristy restaurants if you want those vibes, it's not great if you're on a budget. If that's the case, get your pics outside the restaurant, then skip it and head to the Latin Quarter or any of the less trafficked areas of the city.
Paris awaits, fellow travelers! May your journey through its enchanting streets be filled with discoveries, delicious moments, and the kind of magic that only the City of Light can offer.
À la vôtre!
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