Best Things to Do in Paris
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Planning a trip to Paris? Start here.
There are hundreds of things to do in Paris, but this list narrows it down to the ones that truly matter — especially if it’s your first visit.
From the Eiffel Tower to hidden corners of Montmartre, these are the experiences you shouldn’t miss.
**If you don’t want to overthink it, the Quick Picks below are the most popular, highest-rated experiences — and the ones most people book in advance.
Quick Picks (Top 5 Experiences)
- Eiffel Tower skip-the-line –> Grab Your Tickets Now.
- Seine River cruise –> See Cruise Options
- Louvre guided tour –> Get Your Skip-the-Line Tickets Today
- Versailles day trip
- Montmartre walking tour
Tips:
These activities are extremely popular. Grab your tickets early so you won’t show up to your vacation empty-handed.
Top 5 Experiences
| Activity | Why Go | Best For | Price | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Eiffel Tower Skip-the-Line |
Most Iconic Paris Experience |
Everyone |
$$$ |
|
|
Seine River Night Cruise |
See Major Landmarks Lit Up |
First-Time Visitors, Couples |
$$ |
|
|
Louvre Skip-the-Line or Guided Tour |
See Highlights Without Feeling Overwhelmed |
Art Lovers, People Short On Time |
$$-$$$ |
|
|
Versailles Day Trip |
One of The Most Impressive Palaces in The World |
History Lovers, Anyone with Extra Time |
$$$ |
15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN PARIS (EXPANDED)
1. Eiffel Tower (Go Up or See It at Sunset)
The Eiffel Tower is the most iconic landmark in Paris — and yes, it’s absolutely worth it.
If you want the full experience, go to the top for panoramic views. Otherwise, seeing it from Champ de Mars or Trocadéro at sunset is just as magical.
Pro tip: Skip-the-line tickets sell out quickly — book in advance.
2. Louvre Museum (See the Highlights Only)
The Louvre is massive — you could spend days here. Literally, I’ve read that if you looked at every single piece of art for 30 seconds, it would take you 9 months to do it!
Instead of trying to see everything, focus on highlights like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory.
Best option: Book a guided or skip-the-line tour to save time.
3. Notre Dame & Île de la Cité
Even with ongoing restoration, Notre Dame is still one of the most important stops in Paris.
Walk around Île de la Cité and don’t miss Sainte-Chapelle’s stunning stained glass.
This area is perfect for a slower, scenic morning.
If you’d like a guided tour, get your tickets ahead of time here.
4. Explore Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Montmartre feels like a completely different side of Paris.
Wander cobblestone streets, see local artists, and climb up to Sacré-Cœur for one of the best views in the city.
Go early morning or sunset for fewer crowds.
5. Seine River Cruise
One of the easiest ways to see Paris is from the water.
A Seine River cruise takes you past major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame — especially beautiful at night.
Highly recommend doing this your first evening. Get your tickets early!
6. Palace of Versailles (Day Trip)
Versailles is one of the most impressive palaces in Europe.
The gardens alone are worth the trip, especially during fountain shows.
Book skip-the-line tickets early — this is one of the most popular day trips from Paris.
7. Luxembourg Gardens
If you need a break from sightseeing, this is the perfect spot.
Locals come here to relax, picnic, and enjoy the fountains.
Great stop between the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain. Get Your Tickets Early.
8. Explore Le Marais
Le Marais is one of the best neighborhoods to explore.
You’ll find boutique shops, cafes, galleries, and some of the best food in the city.
Perfect for an afternoon of wandering.
9. Musée d’Orsay
If you prefer Impressionist art, this museum is often better than the Louvre.
It’s smaller, easier to navigate, and filled with works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
Bonus: Incredible views from inside the clock tower. Get Your Skip-the-Lines Tickets Today.
10. Paris Café Culture
Sitting at a café and people-watching is a Paris essential.
Order a coffee, pastry, or glass of wine and take a break from sightseeing.
Don’t rush — this is part of the experience… AND YOU’RE ON VACATION!
11. Walk Along the Seine
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12. Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Walk down one of the most famous avenues in the world, then climb the Arc de Triomphe for one of the best views of Paris.
Go up at sunset if possible.
13. Sainte-Chapelle
This small chapel is easy to miss — but it’s one of the most beautiful in Paris.
The stained glass windows are incredible, especially when the light shines through.
Visit in the morning for the best light.
14. Food & Wine Experience
Paris is just as much about food as it is about landmarks.
Try:
- fresh pastries
- cheese boards
- wine tastings
Consider a food tour if you want a deeper experience. I wish I had started doing this YEARS before I actually tried it!
15. Trocadéro Views
For the classic Eiffel Tower photo, this is the spot.
You’ll get a perfect view across the river — especially early morning or at sunset.
Best photography location in Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best things to do in Paris for first-time visitors include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame, a Seine River cruise, and exploring Montmartre.
These experiences give you a mix of iconic landmarks, culture, and local atmosphere — everything that makes Paris special.
Yes — 3 days is enough to see the main highlights of Paris.
With a well-planned itinerary, you can visit major landmarks, explore key neighborhoods, and still have time to enjoy cafés and local experiences.
For a full plan, follow a 3-day Paris itinerary to avoid wasting time.
If you only have time for a few things, don’t miss:
- Eiffel Tower
- Louvre Museum
- Seine River cruise
- Montmartre
- Notre Dame
These are the experiences most travelers consider must-sees.
The Metro is the easiest and fastest way to get around Paris.
It’s affordable, efficient, and connects all major attractions, making it ideal for visitors.
Walking is also a great option in central neighborhoods.
The best areas to stay in Paris are Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Eiffel Tower area.
These neighborhoods are central, walkable, and close to major attractions.
For hotel recommendations, see where to stay in Paris.
Some attractions in Paris can be expensive, especially popular ones like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre.
However, many experiences — like walking along the Seine or exploring neighborhoods — are completely free.
Yes — it’s highly recommended to book major attractions in advance.
Popular experiences like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Versailles often sell out, especially during peak travel seasons.
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