The 50 Best Things to Do in Paris

Top 50 Things to Do in Paris

In no particular order, here is our list of the 50 best things to do in Paris.

1- Watch the Sunrise on the Seine

For the early rises, head down to the Seine just before dawn and be rewarded with a spectacular sunrise over the city of Paris.  One of the best spots to watch the sunrise over the Seine is from the gorgeous Pont Alexandre III, where you’ll have a great view of the Eiffel Tower.

2- Admire the Exterior of Beautiful Notre Dame

Notre Dame Cathedral is and will always be the beating heart of Paris. Despite the devastating fire in April 2019, which destroyed part of the Cathedral, a visit to Notre Dame is still one of the most iconic places in Paris for tourists to visit.

While you won’t be able to explore inside this gorgeous cathedral, you can still get reasonably close and admire her beauty from the outside. Our Lady of Paris is still watching over Paris and the Parisians from the rose window of the west facade.

3- Explore Medieval Ile de la Cité

Ile de la Cité is one of two small islands in the center of Paris and is the location where the medieval city was established. This is the historic center and one of the oldest areas in Paris.

Today, three main medieval buildings remain on Ile de la Cité – the Cathedral of Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle, and the Conciergerie, where Queen Marie-Antionette awaited execution in 1793. But of course, there’s much more to explore!

If you want to explore Ile de la Cité, take this self-guide Ile de la Cité walking tour that explores the main sites on the island.

4- Admire the Amazing Stained Glass Windows at Sainte Chapelle

Located on Ile de la Cité and just a short stroll from Notre Dame, this gorgeous chapel was built in the early 13th century by King Louis IX – also known as Saint Louis – and has one of the world’s best displays of stained glass.

Here’s a quick guide to amazing stained-glass windows at Sainte-Chapelle. If you want to visit the Sainte-Chapelle in all its glory, the best time to visit is during sunset – Click here to buy your tickets

5- Browse the Bouquinistes’ Stalls along the Seine

As you walk along the Seine River, you can’t miss the numerous bouquinistes’ stalls. These stalls sell a range of items, such as second-hand books, magazines, and artwork. This is the perfect place for tourists to come and purchase a few souvenirs.

The tradition of selling used books along the Seine River started in the 16th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

6- Explore the Iconic Artworks at the Louvre

From the Royal Palace to the world’s most visited museum in the world, you cannot miss the Louvre, one of the most iconic sites in Paris!

Cross the glass pyramid and wander aimlessly through its maze of galleries, with iconic artworks such as the Mona Lisa, The Coronation of Napoleon, Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, or the Venus de Milo – Click here to buy your tickets to the Louvre Museum

If your time in Paris is limited, but you still don’t want to miss one of the most famous museums in the world, let me tell you how to make the most of the Louvre in 2 hours or less.

7- Walk through the Tuileries Gardens

Either before or after you visit the Louvre, be sure to stop by the nearby Tuileries Gardens. This is a lovely place to relax with friends and family or to explore the beautiful gardens, particularly in spring and summer when the flowers are in full bloom.

During the warmer months, you will find a range of stalls selling ice cream and pastries, as well as many artists creating gorgeous artworks.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of the Tuileries Gardens while having fun, you can also arrange your self-guided scavenger hunt in the Tuileries Garden.

8- Discover the Secret Covered Passages of Paris

While many tourists are familiar with all the iconic buildings and monuments in Paris, they may not be aware of Paris’ covered passages. During the 18th and 19th centuries, there were more than 150 of these passages; however, only a few remain these days.

These charming passages that are dotted throughout the city are indoor laneways filled with boutique stores and cafes. The passages themselves are complete works of art, with their colorful stained glass roofs, mosaic floors, stunning architecture, and antique décor.

Some of the passages to explore include Passage des Panoramas, Galerie Vivienne, and Passage du Grand-Cerf.

9- Watch the World Go by from the Terrace of a Parisian Café

The streets of Paris are lined with gorgeous little cafés, and one of the best ways to enjoy the cafés in Paris is to sit outside on the terrace and watch the world go.

This will not only give you a chance to indulge in some delicious Parisian food but also get a glimpse into the lives of local Parisian people as they go about their day-to-day business.

This quick guide tells you how to order coffee in France and the main spoken (and unspoken) rules.

10- See Paris from the Summit of the Eiffel Tower

No doubt, for many visitors, one of the must-do in Paris is to go to the summit of the Eiffel Tower. The Eiffel Tower is not only one of the most recognizable structures in the world but with millions of visitors every year, it is also considered to be the most visited paid tourist attraction.

Opened in 1889 for the Paris World Fair, the Eiffel Tower is 324 meters high, which is the tallest structure in Paris. The tower has three levels, with restaurants being on the first and second levels. Levels one and two can be reached via stairs or a lift, but the top level, which sits at 276 meters, can only be reached by a lift. From the Eiffel Tower’s summit, you will enjoy great views of Paris.

It can be very busy at the Eiffel Tower, so it is recommended you purchase your tickets well in advance.

11- Explore the Bohemian Neighborhood of Montmartre

One of the most popular areas of Paris to explore is Montmartre, a picturesque bohemian district with a very particular atmosphere that was an independent village from Paris until the 19th century.

Put on a good pair of walking shoes and stroll around the narrow, hilly streets. Use this self-guided walking tour with a map to explore the main sights and learn the stories and legends behind them.

Admire the quaint and colorful shop fronts that line the streets, pop into several of the little stores along the way, or relax at one of the many cozy little cafés or Montmartre restaurants that spill onto the streets.

If you prefer to visit the Montmartre off the beaten path, then have a look at my Secret Map of Montmartre.

12- See the Can Can Dancers at the Moulin Rouge

For an evening of fun, head to the Moulin Rouge to see one of the most iconic cabarets in Paris. Running since 1889, as well as witnessing the crazy cancan dance, you’ll see a range of world-class acts.

This is one of the most unique things to do in Paris, so be sure to book your tickets early to avoid disappointment. Although the Moulin Rouge has multiple shows every night, it is a sell-out most nights.

The basic ticket includes a glass of champagne, but for a perfect night out in Paris, I recommend booking the Moulin Rouge dinner show.

14- Enjoy a Traditional French Breakfast

During your trip to Paris, you’ll no doubt enjoy at least a few typical French breakfasts. Unlike most parts of the world, a typical French breakfast is a fairly light meal consisting of bread, a pastry like a croissant or pain au chocolat, jam, yogurt or cheese, and, of course, orange juice plus coffee or tea.

15- Explore the City by Bike

While walking would have to be the best way to explore Paris, for those wanting to give their feet a rest, why not hire a bike and explore the city. Paris by bike is great as there are plenty of bike paths and bike lanes around the city.

There are some great cycling routes designed to show you the best landmarks around the city as well as a range of places where you can rent a bike. Alternatively, you can always join one of the organized bike tours that cover Paris’ highlights.

16- Search the City for the Best View of the Eiffel Tower

On top of every tourist’s list is to ascend the Eiffel Tower – but did you know that the best way to really appreciate this iconic monument is from afar?

Some of the places with the best Eiffel Tower views include Trocadéro, Pont Alexandre III, Champ de Mars, and Rue Saint-Dominique. From these places, you’ll get some great photographs of the Eiffel Tower in all its glory.

17-Find Paris’ most Beautiful Art Nouveau Architecture

For lovers of Art Nouveau architecture, you’ll find some gorgeous examples in Paris. The Art Nouveau movement was popular in Paris from about 1895 to 1914 and left many beautiful buildings in the city. Today, you can spot the style in various metro stations, department stores, and apartment buildings.

For some gorgeous examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Paris, check out Paris 16, which has many buildings designed by architect Héctor Guimard. Also, there is the Immeuble Lavirotte (Paris 7), Castel Béranguer (Paris 16), Restaurant Maxim’s (Paris 8), and the Synagogue of Rue Pavée (Paris 4).

18- Lunch at Le Train Bleu, the Most Romantic Classic Restaurant

Considered to be one of the best restaurants in all of Paris, Le Train Bleu, located at Gare de Lyon, is the perfect place for a romantic lunch.

The food here is incredible, and the service is impeccable, not to mention the elaborately decorated interior rivaling many of the churches and palaces throughout the city.

This is a very popular restaurant, and to avoid disappointment, it’s highly recommended that you book in advance.

19- Try the Delicious Cakes of Paris

It’s no secret that you’ll find some of the best desserts in Paris, from the famous tartes au citron to classic pastries as well as traditional cakes.

Some of the must-try Parisian cakes – the cakes born and perfected in Paris – include Saint-Honoré, Paris-Brest, financiers, Opéra, Baba-Au-Rhum, and many more!

20- Learn about the Impressionism at Orsay Museum

For people with an interest in Impressionist artwork, then a visit to the Orsay Museum is a must. This gorgeous museum was once a railway station and now has the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist artwork in the world.

At the Orsay Museum, you’ll find artwork by painters such as Monet, Degas, Renoir, Seurat, Gauguin, and Van Gogh from the period 1848 to 1914.

21- Choose your favorite Ice-Cream at Berthillon

For the very best ice cream in all of Paris, head to Berthillon. Dating back to 1954, Berthillon makes over 70 different flavors of sorbets and ice cream, including pink grapefruit, salted caramel, candied Ardèche chestnuts, gingerbread, and licorice.

There are many Berthillon ice cream sellers in Paris. However, the original address in Paris, with the very best selection of flavors, is the store at 29-31 Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île. It’s easy to spot as you’ll no doubt see the long line of people outside.

22- Take a Day Trip to Versailles

If you can bear to leave the city center, a day trip to Versailles is well worth it. Just half an hour from Paris by train, Versailles is a royal château located on the Paris outskirts. This World Heritage château was once the official royal residence for more than 100 years until the French Revolution in 1789.

Here, visitors can visit the Château of Versailles inside, as well as explore the magnificent manicured Versailles Gardens, beautifully decorated with fountains and other water games. Also, be sure to visit the nearby le Petit Trianon, designed by order of King Louis XV for his long-term mistress Madame de Pompadour, and L’Hameau de la Reine, which was once the playground of Queen Marie-Antionette.

To get the most out of your day, leave for Versailles as early as you can. This Versailles bundle with transfer, audio guide, and skip-the-line tickets is highly recommended, as lines at Versailles are always very long. For a self-guided visit, there are different kinds of Versailles tickets to visit the Palace, Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, and the garden shows.

23- See Paris City Lights from a Seine Boat Cruise

While Paris is just lovely during the day, when the city is lit up at night, it’s just magical. The perfect way to see all the Paris city lights is on a night cruise along the Seine River.  As you cruise down the river, you’ll see all the city’s iconic landmarks and monuments aglow.

Sailing the Seine River is one of the best things to do in Paris, and you will find different Seine River Cruises in Paris to choose from. You could even combine a river cruise with a few drinks or a dinner cruise for something extra special.

24- Visit the Grand Opera of Paris (Palais Garnier)

For lovers of opera or (mostly) ballet, a show at the Palais Garnier (also known as Opéra Garnier Paris or Paris Opera) is a must. Considered to be one of the most distinguished opera houses in the world, this 1979-seat opera house was built from 1861 to 1875 at the request of Emperor Napoleon III.

Even if you can’t see a show, a tour of the Palais Garnier is a great way to admire its grand exterior and exquisite interiors. Learn about its fascinating history and visit the Phantom of the Opera private box seat.

25- Visit the Basilica of Saint-Denis, Burial Place of the Kings of France

One of the most famous religious buildings in all of France is the Basilica of Saint-Denis. This Basilica has great historical and architectural importance as it’s the first Gothic church ever built and is also the burial place of the Kings and Queens of France.

The best way to explore the impressive Gothic Cathedral is by a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide, where you’ll learn all about this historical site. Although it is possible to buy your tickets alone and do a self-guided tour.

26- Indulge in a Typical Thick Chocolat Chaud

You cannot leave Paris without indulging in a thick chocolat chaud. Basically, chocolat chaud is a super thick and rich hot chocolate. Some of the best chocolat chaud served in Paris can be found at Angelina, Chocolaterie Jacques Genin (133 Rue de Turenne), Maison du Chocolat (225 Rue Fauburg Saint-Honoré), and Jean-Paul Hevin (120 Rue Saint-Honoré).

Angelina Paris (226 Rue de Rivoli, in Paris 1) usually sees the crowds. However, few people know that there’s an Angelina with zero crowds inside the Louvre Museum, not far from the Apartments of Napoleon iii.

27- Explore the Luxembourg Gardens

A lovely place to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris is the Luxembourg Gardens. The Luxembourg Gardens are the perfect place to relax and explore, particularly if you happen to be visiting during spring and summer when all the flowers are in bloom. Be sure to stop by the Médicis Fountain, one of the prettiest places in the gardens as well as in Paris itself.

Also, for families visiting Luxembourg Gardens, you could even arrange a self-guided treasure hunt for the kids (but also great for adults alone) to learn more about this pretty place and its first owner, Queen Marie de Médicis.

28- Walk along Canal Saint-Martin

Wander along Canal Saint-Martin, a small waterway crossed by metallic bridges and lined with lovely little boutique shops and cafes. This neighborhood – world-famous thanks to the film Amélie Poulain – is a popular area for the locals, where you’ll find coffee shops, vintage shops, and trendy bars perfect for an afternoon apéritif.

Canal Saint-Martin is the perfect place if you’re wanting to explore one of the less touristy areas of Paris.

29- Learn about the History of Paris at Musée Carnavalet

The best place to learn about Paris’s history, from its origins to the present day, is at the Musée Carnavalet. Located in the historic Le Marais neighborhood, the Museum is housed across two mansions from the 16th and 17th centuries.

With its expansive collections, including medieval and Gallo-Roman archeological collections, relics of the French Revolution, paintings, sculptures, furniture, and items of art, this is easily one of the best free museums in Paris.

30- Walk on the Rails Following La Petite Ceinture

For visitors who love to explore hidden gems not found in tourist guides, then walking along the rails at La Petite Ceinture is one to add to your to-do list. Once a 32 km railroad line that circled Paris, today you can explore the area where you’ll find abandoned train stations and railroads.

Constructed from 1852 to 1869, La Petite Ceinture’s decline started with the construction of the Parisian Metro and eventually stopped operating in the 1970s. Today the area is converted into several green spaces and is an interesting, offbeat place to explore.

31 – Enjoy a Picnic at the Foot of the Eiffel Tower

One of the most unique things to do in Paris is to have a picnic on the grass at the foot of the Eiffel Tower at Champ de Mars. This is particularly a great thing to do in the warmer months during spring and summer when, on any given day, you will find lots of locals doing just that.

Head to a nearby supermarket and buy a range of local delights, such as a freshly baked baguette, cheese, chocolate, and, of course, a bottle of French wine. Then relax and enjoy a few hours relaxing with your friends and family while basking in the beauty of the Eiffel Tower.

32- Sail your own Electric Boat along the Canal de l’Ourcq

If you’re looking for more unique things to do in Paris, head down to Canal de l’Ourcq and sail your own electric boat. This is such a fun way to not only relax with family and friends but also to see the city sights along the canal.

Marin d’Eau Douce is the company that offers these electric boats. They are moored at Canal de la Villette, the starting point of your crazy boat tour. There is no license or permit required to hire these electric boats, and you can hire them for a few hours or an entire day.

33- Pay your Respects at the Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise Cemetery, with its 44 hectares and 70,000 burial plots, is the largest cemetery in Paris today. Père Lachaise Cemetery is visited by around 3.5 million visitors each year, mainly because it is the final resting place of France’s most prominent people.

The cemetery is a must-do in Paris during fall, when it is especially gorgeous with the autumn colors.

Some of the most popular visited tombs here include Oscar Wilde, Abélard and Héloïse, Edith Piaf, Chopin, and Jim Morrison. If you are looking for an alternative tour far from the crowds, this self-guided Père Lachaise walking tour covers the mysteries and legends of some of the characters of the time.