Are you going to visit Paris and are you planning your trip? We are here to help! The city is the perfect combination of history, culture, and plain beauty that suits all traveler’s needs. But which highlights do you pick to go to? Whether you are into history, a connoisseur of art, or looking for the best food, we got you covered. Paris will never fail to impress with its countless possibilities, whichever you choose.
To help you get started, we compiled an extensive list of things to do. Let’s make your stay one to remember!
EXPERIENCE THE MAGIC OF THE EIFFEL TOWER
To start things off, your trip to Paris would not be complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. You might have seen it in movies or on postcards, but believe us when we tell you that it is something else to see in person. It was built in 1889 by Gustave Eiffel for the World’s Fair; afterwards it has become one of Paris’ symbols. Standing on the top offers a unique view of the city.
Ascending the Eiffel Tower by foot (the stairs only reach to the second floor) or via the elevators is a must. On every level of the tower you are greeted with a panoramic view of the city. Rooftops as far as you can see, the Seine winding through the city. Walk around the top and you will spot iconic landmarks in every direction. Try and spot the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Tour Montparnasse!
As dusk comes, the lights of the Eiffel Tower switch on. It is a spectacle of light against the darkening sky. Standing on top or below, take your time for a photo or just a minute to take it all in. The Eiffel Tower promises a magical experience.
BEHOLD THE CITY FROM TOUR MONTPARNASSE
The Tour Montparnasse is the highest skyscraper in Paris at 210 meters tall. The view is distinctly different from the Eiffel Tower, which you can see in the near distance in all its glory. At the Tour Montparnasse you stand in the midst of the urban heart of the city. You’ll be looking out over a patchwork of rooftops and landmarks that tell the story of Paris, layer by layer, century by century.
From the 56th-floor observatory deck or the open-air roof terrace, you take in the grandeur of Paris stretching out in all directions. The view takes you across a blend of Haussmannian buildings with their characteristic gray rooftops. You will see modern architecture, the winding Seine River, and, of course, the towering silhouette of the Eiffel Tower.
At the foot of the Tour Montparnasse lies a bustling hub of restaurants, cafés, and shops. It gives a cosmopolitan appeal to the area. Combine a perfect skyline shot with some shopping and lunch or dinner. It is a hidden gem for skyline lovers and city explorers alike.
STEP INTO THE ARTISTIC WONDERLAND AT LOUVRE MUSEUM
Located in the heart of Paris, the Louvre Museum not only holds a treasure art, it is a piece of art itself. This museum once was a royal palace. Nowadays it houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of art.
Stop and take in the building before walking in. The iconic glass pyramid at the entrance stands in stark contrast to this historic palace. It showcases Paris’s commitment to seamlessly blend the old with the new.
Now step into the Louvre, and discover art like never before. From ancient civilizations to the Renaissance and beyond. Come face to face with da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and don’t forget to stop at Venus de Milo. Every gallery feels like a new chapter—offering not just a look into the past, but a deeper appreciation of how art connects us across time.
STROLL THROUGH THE HISTORIC NEIGHBORHOODS OF MONTMARTRE
The historic charm of Paris is perfectly captured in the picturesque neighbourhood of Montmartre. Situated on a hill in the city’s 18th arrondissement, Montmartre has long been a haven for artists, writers, and bohemians.
As you walk through its narrow, cobblestone streets, you’ll come across a variety of attractions. The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, perched atop the highest point in the city, is a marvel of Romano-Byzantine architecture. The view from its steps offers a stunning panorama of Paris, a perfect spot to sit and take in the view.
Close by, the Place du Tertre is brimming with artists who set up their easels to paint and sell their artwork. Their colourful displays add a vibrant splash to the area. Montmartre also houses several charming cafés and bistros serving traditional French cuisine.
Lastly, the legendary Moulin Rouge cabaret adds a touch of old-world glamour to Montmartre. Known for its red windmill on the roof and the sparkling can-can shows, the Moulin Rouge is a testament to the neighbourhood’s colourful past.
ENJOY THE PARISIAN CUISINE
Paris is world renowned for its culinary scene. From traditional French cuisine to gastronomic experiences and anything between. Parisians, and French people for that matter, are proud of their food and for good reason. Let’s take a look into a full day of delights!
Start the day with a typical French breakfast at a boulangerie. Enjoy pastries like a croissant, pain au chocolat or pain aux raisins together with a café au lait. Also don’t underestimate the brilliance of a nice baguette with butter and jam.
Now onto lunch at a local bistro. Remember to take your time. French lunch is not about eating, but more so about enjoying. A typical lunch begins with a light starter like a green salad or slice of quiche. The main course is a warm dish such as roast chicken or steak-frites. Round things up with a cheese course or a simple dessert for the full experience.
Do you have an appetite left before dinner? Starting with some Parisian pâtisseries, we recommend trying a macaron or chocolate éclair. Perfect for the sweet tooths! Are you more into something savoury? Join local customs of the apéro, a light snack accompanied with some wine or pastis before dinner.
Last but not least, dinner is served. Our recommendations and also the options are endless. Go for a classic with bouillabaisse or boeuf bourguignon and if you are up for it, escargots! Are you a culinary fanatic? With over 100 Michelin starred restaurants, Paris will serve you well.
DISCOVER THE NATURAL BEAUTY OF PARISIAN GARDENS
Are you looking to escape the bustling city for a moment? Paris has several beautiful parks and gardens where you can take a break. Go for a stroll, read a book, enjoy a picnic or just do some people watching and appreciate the tranquility. We give you three of the best options to go to.
To start things off, the Tuileries Garden. It runs along the Seine and is located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde. Although not the biggest, it is an elegant space with beautiful gardens, sculptures, and water features.
Next up, the Bois de Boulogne. One of Paris’ bigger parks is located on the centers’ western edge. It is a sprawling park with walking trails, boating lakes, a horse racing track, and even a small zoo. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic or a boat ride on the lake.
Last on our list, the Jardin du Luxembourg. It is located between the Tour Montparnasse and Notre-Dame. It has colourful flowerbeds, grand statues, and the iconic Medici Fountain.
CRUISE ALONG THE RIVER SEINE
The River Seine runs through the heart of Paris. Many of the most famous landmarks are situated close to its banks. The Eiffel Tower, Place de la Concorde, the Louvre and in the midst of it the Notre-Dame. Walking along the banks or renting a bike are perfect options to explore.
If you want to experience it from a different angle, you can also go by boat. You will pass by the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Musée d’Orsay. Pass under several beautiful bridges, each with their own story to tell.
Cruising on the Seine is not just about sightseeing. Many companies offer dinner cruises where you can enjoy a fine meal as you take in the sights. It’s a perfect way to combine a culinary trip with sightseeing in Paris.
Every aspect of Paris promises an unforgettable experience. From the soaring heights of the Tour Montparnasse to the vibrant streets of Montmartre, from the masterpieces within the Louvre to the serene gardens. Paris, with all its diverse offerings, awaits to be explored. Your trip through the city will undoubtedly be filled with wonderful memories and experiences that you will never forget.