Discover Paris’ iconic landmarks, historic architecture and unforgettable city views.
Paris is known for its historic architecture, world-famous museums, elegant streets and café culture. The French capital is home to some of the world’s most recognised landmarks, along with neighbourhoods and local markets that are worth taking the time to discover.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see more, planning your itinerary can be a challenge.
If you’re wondering what to do in Paris, here are 25 attractions and experiences worth adding to your trip.
Explore Paris on a private sightseeing experience from Paris Magical Tours.
1. Discover Paris on a Private Sightseeing Tour
One of the best ways to discover Paris is on a private Paris tour. The city’s main attractions are spread across different neighbourhoods, so having a professional guide and private vehicle can make exploring more convenient. You’ll also have the opportunity to learn about the history and stories behind the landmarks along the way.
Paris Magical Tours offers private sightseeing experiences with a professional guide and chauffeur-driven private vehicle. Tours can be tailored to your interests, whether you wish to discover the city’s famous landmarks, explore historic neighbourhoods or enjoy a personalised introduction to Paris.
2. Visit the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, it has become the city’s most recognisable landmark. Visitors can admire it from nearby gardens, enjoy the views from the viewing platforms or book a meal at one of its restaurants.
The Louvre is home to some of the world’s most recognised works of art.
3. Explore the Louvre Museum
The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums and a major attraction in Paris. Its extensive collection includes works such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. The museum is also known for its glass pyramid entrance and historic palace buildings. With so much to see, it’s worth planning which galleries you’d like to visit before arriving.
4. Attend a Service at Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of Paris’ most famous landmarks. Located on the Île de la Cité, the cathedral is known for its Gothic architecture, detailed stone carvings and distinctive towers. Following the devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral reopened in December 2024.
Visitors can admire its restored exterior and interior while learning about its long history. However, the optimal way to experience Notre Dame Cathedral is to attend a service: Vespers take place most evenings on weekdays at 5;30pm, while sacred music concerts led by the choir typically happen on Tuesday evenings at different times of the year. Check the Notre Dame Cathedral for the latest listings.
5. Walk Along the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is one of Paris’s most famous avenues, stretching between Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe. It is lined with shops, restaurants, cafés and theatres.
Whether you’re interested in shopping or simply enjoying a walk through the city, this avenue is a popular stop on any Paris itinerary.
6. Climb the Arc de Triomphe
Standing at the top of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe honours those who fought and died for France. Beneath the monument is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where an eternal flame is maintained.
Visitors can climb to the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Paris and its famous avenues.
Discover Impressionist masterpieces at the Musée d’Orsay.
7. Discover the Musée d’Orsay
Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is known for its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
Visitors can see works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, Degas, Cézanne and Van Gogh. The building itself is also worth admiring, particularly its grand clock overlooking the city.
8. Visit the Palace of Versailles
Located just outside Paris, the Palace of Versailles is one of France’s most famous historic attractions.
Once the residence of French kings, it is known for its grand rooms, ornate interiors and extensive gardens. The Hall of Mirrors is one of its main highlights. Allow plenty of time for your visit, as the palace grounds are extensive.
9. Explore the neighbourhood of Montmartre
Montmartre is one of Paris’s most charming neighbourhoods, known for its artistic history, narrow streets and village-like atmosphere. Visitors can browse independent shops, stop at local cafés and visit Place du Tertre, where artists display their work. The neighbourhood also offers some lovely views across Paris.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica overlooks Paris from the hill of Montmartre.
10. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Located at the highest point of Montmartre, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is one of the most recognisable buildings in Paris. Its white domes stand out against the surrounding neighbourhood, while the steps outside offer sweeping views across the city. Visitors can also enter the basilica to admire its impressive interior.
11. Take a Seine River Cruise
A cruise along the River Seine offers a different view of Paris. Boats pass several major landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Musée d’Orsay.
There are several cruise operators offering sightseeing trips, dinner cruises and private experiences to suit all tastes and budgets.
12. Explore the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is one of Paris’s oldest neighbourhoods and is known for its historic streets, bookshops, cafés and student atmosphere. It is home to the Sorbonne University and the Panthéon, as well as several traditional restaurants. It’s a great area to walk around and experience everyday Parisian life.
13. Visit the Panthéon
Located in the Latin Quarter, the Panthéon is a striking neoclassical building that serves as a mausoleum for some of France’s most notable figures. Those buried here include Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Marie Curie and Alexandre Dumas. Visitors can admire the architecture and learn about the people who helped shaped French history.
Place des Vosges is one of the most beautiful historic squares in Le Marais.
14. Wander Around Le Marais
Le Marais is a popular neighbourhood known for its historic architecture, independent boutiques, art galleries and cafés. Its narrow streets are lined with buildings dating back several centuries. Visitors can also discover Place des Vosges, one of the oldest planned squares in Paris.
15. Browse the Shops Along Rue de Rivoli
Rue de Rivoli is one of Paris’s main shopping streets, running through the heart of the city. It is close to several major attractions, including the Louvre and the Tuileries Garden. Visitors can browse well-known shops, department stores and smaller boutiques while exploring the central districts.
16. Relax in the Tuileries Garden
Situated between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries Garden is a beautiful public park in central Paris. Its tree-lined paths, fountains and sculptures make it a pleasant place for a walk or a break between sightseeing stops. Visitors can also relax by the garden’s ponds and enjoy views of the surrounding landmarks.
Sainte-Chapelle is known for its magnificent medieval stained-glass windows.
17. Visit Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle is famous for its remarkable stained-glass windows, which cover much of the upper chapel’s walls. Located on the Île de la Cité, it was originally built in the 13th century to house religious relics. When sunlight passes through the colourful glass, the interior becomes one of the most striking sights in Paris.
18. Discover Opéra Garnier
Palais Garnier is one of Paris’s most impressive architectural landmarks. This historic opera house is known for its grand staircase, ornate ceilings and elaborate interiors. Visitors can attend a performance or explore selected areas of the building on a tour or self-guided visit.
19. Visit the Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is known for its distinctive architecture, with colourful pipes and structural elements on its exterior. It has been an important centre for modern and contemporary art, hosting regular exhibitions and cultural events. Check its current visitor arrangements before planning a visit, as the building is undergoing a major renovation and closures are expected.
20. Explore the Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens are a popular green space in the heart of Paris. Visitors can walk through the landscaped grounds, admire the fountains and statues or relax beside the central pond. The gardens also feature the Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate.
Paris’s historic covered passages are home to independent shops and cafés.
21. Discover the Covered Passages of Paris
Paris is home to several historic covered shopping passages, many dating back to the 19th century. These glass-roofed arcades feature independent shops, bookshops, cafés and traditional restaurants. Popular examples include Galerie Vivienne, Passage des Panoramas and Passage Jouffroy. They offer a quieter way to discover a different side of the city.
22. Visit the Musée Rodin
The Musée Rodin is dedicated to the work of French sculptor Auguste Rodin. Its collection includes famous pieces such as The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries and sculpture garden, which is a peaceful place to spend time away from the busier tourist areas.
23. Explore the Saint-Germain-des-Prés Neighbourhood
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is known for its literary history, historic cafés, galleries and boutique shops. It was once a popular meeting place for writers, philosophers and artists. Today, visitors can enjoy a coffee at a traditional Parisian café, browse independent shops or simply walk through its charming streets.
24. Visit the Catacombs of Paris
Beneath the streets of Paris lies a network of underground tunnels known as the Catacombs. This unusual attraction holds the remains of millions of Parisians, transferred there in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore a section of the tunnels and learn about the history behind this underground burial site. Advance booking is recommended.
25. Enjoy French Food and Café Culture
Food is such an important part of the Paris experience. Stop at a traditional café for coffee and a croissant, visit a local bakery for fresh pastries or enjoy a leisurely meal at a neighbourhood restaurant. Paris also has a wide selection of food markets, cheese shops, patisseries and restaurants serving classic French dishes. Taking time to enjoy a meal is a simple way to experience local life.
Plan Your Visit to Paris
Paris has plenty to offer, whether you’re interested in art, history, architecture, shopping or food. You can spend your days visiting famous attractions, walking through historic neighbourhoods or discovering places outside the usual tourist areas.
If you’re planning your first visit, consider grouping nearby attractions together to make the most of your time. A little planning will help you see more of the city without rushing between places.
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Paris
1. What are the best things to do in Paris for first-time visitors?
First-time visitors should see the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Arc de Triomphe. A walk along the Seine, a visit to Montmartre and time spent exploring a traditional Parisian neighbourhood are also good ways to experience the city.
2. How many days do you need to explore Paris?
Three to five days is a good amount of time for a first visit. This allows you to see the main attractions, visit museums and explore different neighbourhoods. You may need longer if you plan to visit the Palace of Versailles or spend more time at the city’s museums.
3. What is the best way to get around Paris?
Paris has an extensive public transport network, including the Métro, buses, RER trains and trams. Walking is also a good way to explore central neighbourhoods. Visitors who prefer a more personalised experience can consider VIP Paris tours with a guide and chauffeur-driven vehicle.
4. What are the best areas to explore in Paris?
Popular neighbourhoods include Montmartre for its artistic history and views, Le Marais for its boutiques and historic streets, Saint-Germain-des-Prés for its cafés and galleries and the Latin Quarter for its bookshops and historic landmarks.
5. Is Paris suitable for families with children?
Yes. Families can enjoy attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Seine cruises, the Natural History Museum and the gardens of Paris. The city’s parks, bakeries and open spaces also provide plenty of opportunities for a relaxed family day out.
6. Can you see the main attractions in Paris in one day?
You can visit several major landmarks in one day, but you won’t have time to explore everything in detail. Planning a route around nearby attractions can help you make the most of your time. A private sightseeing tour can also help you cover more ground with a guide.
7. Is a private sightseeing tour of Paris worth it?
A private sightseeing tour is a good option if you want a more personalised way to discover Paris. You can visit places that interest you, learn about the city’s history and travel with a professional guide and private chauffeur-driven vehicle. It can also make getting between attractions more convenient.
More Paris Resources
Looking for more ideas to help plan your visit? Explore these useful websites and resources for additional inspiration, travel tips and recommendations on things to see and do in Paris.
Ready to Explore Paris? Contact our team to start planning your private sightseeing tour. For more information about our experiences and services, visit our FAQ page.