Fancy getting lost in Paris?
Our guide to 30 unmissable sights in the City of Light promises legendary attractions, hidden gems, insider tips, and views that only Paris can serve up.
By the way, if you plan to share your city adventures on Instagram, don’t forget to bring your iRoamly France travel eSIM for seamless connectivity.
Arts and Culture
1. Louvre Museum
Why go? The Louvre is not just a museum but an artistic treasure trove, it’s home to almost 35,000 works of art across the centuries, including iconic paintings like the Mona Lisa and sculptures such as the Venus de Milo.
Its vast range of exhibits traces the history of world art from ancient civilizations to mid-19th century European heritage.
How to go: It’s located in the 1st arrondissement and is best reached by the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre metro stop.
Tip: Buy your tickets online to avoid the epic queues.
2. Orsay Museum
Why go? Housed in a former railway station, the Orsay specialises in Impressionist art. The star works on display by painters such as Monet and Van Gogh capture the spirit of the 19th century when the building was constructed.
How to go: On the left bank of the Seine, it’s a quick walk from the Solferino metro stop.
Opening hours are extended on Thursdays, when the museum is quieter.
3. Centre Pompidou
Why go? The hi-tech-looking Centre Pompidou is home to some of the most cutting-edge modern art and avant-garde temporary exhibitions. The museum also has one-of-a-kind views over Paris: rise watching out for the transparent high-tech escalators and hit the sizable rooftop terraces for a bird's-eye view of the city’s landmarks.
How to go: In the Marais, the museum is a quick walk from the Rambuteau metro stop.
Tip: Head to the rooftop café for some incredible views.
Historical Landmarks
4. Eiffel Tower
Why go? The iron Eiffel Tower is a symbol of French imagination and a global icon. The panoramic view of the Parisian horizon from its summit is breathtaking, and you can’t fully appreciate its incredible design while hand-standing on the ground. If you're planning one day in Paris, this is a must-see spot.
How to go: Easiest Oxford Circus. No, wait... Trocadéro metro stop.
Tip: Pre-buy tickets online to avoid lining up for ages.
5. Notre Dame
Why go? Badly damaged by fire in 2019, the Cathédrale de Notre Dame speaks to Parisians’ cultural spirit and their people's been-there-done-that attitude towards wars and everything else. Don’t miss the chance to support the preservation of this unique history-in-stone, presently being restored to its former glory.
How to go: On the Île de la Cité, best approached from the Cité metro stop.
Due to restoration work, access to the interior is closed. For now, at least.
6. Roam Montmartre
Why go? The bohemian village in the city and former haunt of artists such as Picasso and Dali houses the snow-white domes of the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur. Lose yourself in its narrow, winding streets.
How to go: Metro stations Abbesses or Anvers bring you closest to the area.
Tip: Come early to seize the real essence of the place, before it is overrun by tourists.
7. Descend into the Catacombs of Paris
Why go? Below Paris’s surface is another city: the Catacombs, a series of underground tunnels stacked with the bones and skulls of several million bodies. It is a ghoulish experience and a tantalising glimpse into Paris history: a city that constantly builds over itself.
How to go: The entrance is in the 14th arrondissement, close to Denfert-Rochereau metro station.
Tip: You must buy tickets in advance. It is cold down there, so wrap up.
8. Cook with a French Chef, a French Way of Life
Why go? Because what is more French than making French food? Classes feature accomplished local chefs who guide you through recipes and techniques for dishes like coq au vin or tarte tatin.
How to go: There are cookery schools across much of central Paris. Take the metro to arrive with ease.
Classes fill up so register ahead of time.
9. L’aube in Luxembourg Gardens
Why go? The Luxembourg Gardens is the archetypal Parisian park: a mix of formal French and informal English garden styles. Take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic or just hang out. The gardens are decked out with rose gardens, gravel pathways and classical statues.
How to go: To the 6th arrondissement, where the Luxembourg RER station is a short walk from the park’s entrance.
Tip: Bring a book; you could opt for some time to relax or people-watch.
Leisure and Nature
10. Boat Ride on the Seine
Why go? A trip along the Seine River, one of the longest rivers in France, will give you a fresh perspective of Paris. You’ll pass many of the city’s most iconic landmarks - the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame included - while listening to the history behind them in guided commentary.
How to go: River cruises run from various points along the Seine. The most popular spots to start tend to be near the Eiffel Tower or on the Île de la Cité.
Tip: An evening trip will allow you to see the city’s lights reflected in the water – extra-magical.
11. Visit the Palais-Royal Gardens
Why go? Sheltered behind the walls of a palace, the Palais-Royal Gardens are an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. With orderly lines of trees, fountains and shaded arcades, it’s where Parisians come to read and have a quiet lunch.
How to go: Opposite the Louvre, access by metro using the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre station.
Perfect for a chill-out after a visit to the nearby museums.
12. Explore the Paris Zoological Park
Why go? The Paris Zoological Park has been revamped to offer animals more immersive surroundings. It’s a full day out where you can see wildlife from across the globe, including some that are rare.
How to go: Located in the 12th arrondissement, access via the Porte Dorée metro stop.
Tip: Drop into a feeding session for a raucous and educational talk as keepers throw treats to the animals and explain their behavior.
Shopping and Fashion
13. Shop in Le Marais
Why go? As well as being a beautiful ancient neighborhood, Le Marais it is also the place where those after something unique, stylish and special come to shop. Startups, the latest fashion and vintage all mixed in make this a shopping trip to write home about.
How to go: The Saint-Paul metro stop is a good spot to start. Otherwise most bus routes in the area are well served.
Tip: Sunday is the best day to visit, as most shops are open – not a given in Paris.
14. Discover the Flea Markets at Saint-Ouen
Why go? Saint-Ouen Flea Market, known as Les Puces, is one of the biggest and most famous flea markets in the world. With more than 1,000 dealers hawking everything from vintage clothes to antique furniture, it’s got more character and history than Dumas's Three Musketeers.
How to go: Located north of Montmartre, it can be accessed via the Porte de Clignancourt metro stop.
Haggling is expected if you want to get a good deal. Watch out for pickpockets, too.
15. Visit Galeries Lafayette
Why go? Galeries Lafayette is not just a department store, it’s a Parisian fashion institution, a lavishly furnished temple to shopping. Located in a century-old building, it has a glass-and-steel dome and a museum with views out over the Parisian cityscape. Shops are only the start.
How to go: Just a minute on foot from Opera Garnier, with its own metro stop, Chaussée d'Antin – La Fayette.
Tip: The rooftop terrace offers one of the best free views over the city.
Food and Drink
16. Sample French Pastries at a Boulangerie
Why go? French pastries are a gastronomic art form, ranging from buttery croissants to luscious éclairs. Visiting a local boulangerie is the perfect way to sample the best of Gallic baking in distinctly Parisian surroundings.
How to go: Boulangeries are easily found across town, but the best, most traditional ones are typically in less visited, residential neighborhoods.
Tip: Go early in the morning to sample the freshest pastries, and don’t be afraid to try something you’ve never had before!
17. Have a Wine-Tasting Session
Why go? In case you hadn't heard, France makes wine, and in Paris there is no shortage of wine bars where everyone from snobs to beginners can sample French vintages under the guidance of sommeliers.
How to go: Paris is speckled with wine bars but especially around busy areas like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre.
You might consider booking a wine-tasting session to gain a better understanding of the various types and regions.
18. Eat Outside at a Café
Why go? A trip to Paris isn’t complete without spending an hour or two at a sidewalk café, soaking up the city ambiance over a café au lait or light meal.
How to go: Cafés are ubiquitous, though a charming café situated on a picturesque avenue or in a bustling square is particularly enjoyable.
Tip: Head to the poorer areas for cafes, to avoid inflated prices and feel more authenticity.
Adventure and Nightlife
19. Go for a Balloon Ride at Parc André Citroën
Why go? For a unique perspective on Paris, hop on a hot-air balloon ride in Parc André Citroën. This little-known activity offers incredible panoramas of the city, especially at sunset.
How to go: The park is situated in the 15th arrondissement, and you can get there by taking the metro to Javel.
Tip: Balloon rides depend, of course, on the weather. Verify the latest conditions and try to book your ride in the morning.
20. Experience Parisian Nightlife at Oberkampf
Why go? The Oberkampf is renowned for its bustling nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs and live-music venues that attract a youthful, lively crowd. It’s the place to discover Paris after dark and maybe even party until dawn.
How to go: Most easily accessed by the Parmentier or Ménilmontant metro stops.
Kick off the evening with a drink at one of the local bars, where you can also ask the bartender for advice on where to go next.
21. Watch a Show at the Moulin Rouge
Why go? Catching a show at the Moulin Rouge, one of the original cabarets, and home of the cancan, is a Parisian rite of passage offers showgirls cavorting, fabulous dancing and top-of-the-line performers leaning more on the novelty and variety-show end of the spectrum than the erotic.
How to go: In the heart of Montmartre, the venue is easy to reach via the Blanche metro stop.
Tip: Always book tickets well in advance.obnoxious.
Family Activities
22. Spend a Day at Disneyland Paris
Why go? Because if you’ve got a family, or are just a big kid at heart, Disneyland Paris is the place to be, with hair-raising rides, parades and a chance to mingle with your favorite Disney characters. A full day of fun just a short train ride from the city center.
How to go: The resort is in Marne-la-Vallée, around a 40-minute RER A train journey from central Paris.
Tip: Book tickets and fast passes in advance to save time on the day.
23. Explore the Gardens of Versailles
Why go? The Château de Versailles’s gardens are an iconic work of French landscape design, complete with manicured lawns, extraordinary fountains and enormous canals. This Unesco World Heritage site is a glorious outdoor experience.
How to go: A 20- to 30-minute RER C train from central Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche, then a walk.
Tip: Visit on days when the musical fountain show runs for an even more dramatic excursion.
24. Visit the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie
Why go? Europe’s largest science museum has fascinating interactive displays about science and technology – and even a planetarium and a submarine. An educational day out, perfect for engaging kids and adults alike.
How to go: In the 19th arrondissement, Porte de la Villette metro station.
Tip: Regular workshops and temporary exhibitions mean there’s always something new – check the programme to get the most out of your visit.
Relaxation and Scenic Spots
25. Stroll the Seine
Why go? Scenic views of Paris’s architectural masterpieces can be seen at any time of day from a walk along the River Seine. Also, the city’s liveliness can be felt while strolling past the lively quays and serene bridges.
How to go: Start your walk from any point along the river; the most stunning section is between the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
Keep an eye out for book and art sellers on the riverbanks for unique souvenirs.
26. Sit back in Place des Vosges
Why go? One of Paris’s most handsome and ancient squares, the Place des Vosges is ideal for picnicking and for people-watching. The traditional square, enclosed by red-brick buildings and arcades, is instantly recognizable.
How to go: Found in the Marais and accessible by metro (Saint-Paul).
Tip: Don’t miss the Maison de Victor Hugo on the square; it provides some insight into the life of the French author.
27. View from Montparnasse Tower
Why go? For one of the finest views of Paris, head to the Montparnasse Tower. The rooftop terrace on the 56th floor and the observation deck give an exclusive open-air perspective of the city, including a rare direct view of the Eiffel Tower.
How to go: The Montparnasse – Bienvenüe metro station is close by.
Tip: For a captivating experience, go at sunset and watch the city change color with the evening lights.
Artistic Encounters
28. Street Art Tour in Belleville
Why go? A colorful district overflowing with street art, Belleville sees local and international talents using building walls as their canvas. A guided tour can uncover the stories behind the murals and the ethos of this forward-thinking neighborhood.
How to go: Belleville is served by its own metro station, on lines 2 and 11.
Several tours are led by resident artists, so expect to be informed about the neighborhood scene.
29. Classical Music Concert at Sainte-Chapelle
Why go? While Sainte-Chapelle is renowned for its awe-inspiring stained-glass windows, its intimate concerts of classical music, held in this historic chapel, match its spiritual setting. The acoustics and the mood provide a divine backdrop for the music of composers such as Vivaldi and Bach.
How to go: Located on the Île de la Cité, a few steps from the Cité metro station.
Tip: Tickets can be bought online; consider a concert in the evening to see the illuminated windows at night.
30. Visit the Art Galleries in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Why go? Synonymous with Paris’s bohemian and literary past, Saint-Germain-des-Prés has many galleries where you can discover everything from classics to contemporary works. An area of discovery for art lovers who are a bit more off the beaten path.
How to go: Saint-Germain-des-Prés and a wander from the metro are best.
Several galleries stage vernissages that are open to all, so expect the modern art-living set to show up.
Summary:
But it doesn’t end here, the 30 distinct ways to see Paris in this article are just the beginning.
With virtually something for everyone, Paris offers everything from art to history to nightlife and more, that will have you making memories you’ll never forget.
From one attraction to the next, let yourself be charmed by this breathtaking city.