With millions of tourists visiting each year, Paris is widely recognized as one of the world's most beautiful cities and possibly the most romantic place. You won't be let down if the City of Light draws you in with its stunning architecture and historic façade, excellent dining, exquisite arts, or Parisian fashion. On your next trip to Paris, don't miss these top 12 sites and activities: On your next trip to Paris, don't miss these top 12 sites and activities:
1. Taste French food - Paris is world famous for its cuisine, and while you will be able to enjoy French food back home in the comfort of your home, nothing can compare to the experience of tasting it in the city that it originated from. Go up for a scenic revolving view of the city skyline or have lunch at the Eiffel Tower’s cafeteria with an open view of the Champs de Mars park or if fortunate to be there at night, the tower lights up to form a beautiful sight to behold.
2. Stroll the Champs-Élysées – this is the grand avenue of Paris, which begins at the Arc de Triompère, passes through trees and fountains, and opens into rows of cafes and bistros, more Parisians. Stroll through the stores of the luxurious brands or the most popular European flagship stores, buy pastries at the Ladurée macaron shop, or sit at one of the cafes at the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and watch people.
3. Montmartre Tour – Realizing that the district is a historic area, people can observe small cobblestone streets, shops, and cafes as well as breathtaking views of Paris. Visit the Montmartre district, a place with charming streets, and go up the steep steps to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, visit the Dalí Museum where you can see the masterpieces by Picasso and Dali, and walk through Place du Tertre to see artists painting the tourists.
4. River Seine tour – A visit to Paris is incomplete without a scenic ride on the river Seine, which offers a new perspective of the city. Most boats come equipped with outdoor and indoor decks, fully- λειτουργώντας open-air bar, and an audio guide to the main Parisian attractions including the Louvre, Notre Dame de Paris, Eiffel Tower, and others. Evening cruises available follow the river past the illuminated night-time sights of Paris.
5. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral – Perhaps the most visited cathedral in the world, even though you may have seen Notre Dame in a movie or a picture, nothing can prepare you for the first-time experience of actually standing before this majestic structure. Visit now now-standing church since the 12th century with its Gothic front, two towers, Rose windows, stained glass, and nearly a millennium of history of France.
6. Get lost in the Louvre – If you are an art lover or even a historian, then ensure you take enough time to tour the Louvre museum because this museum holds as many as over 380000 objects including 35000 pieces of artwork. However, it can satisfy some of the tourist’s goals of becoming a reality such as the Mona Lisa painting, the Venus de Milo sculpture, and Egyptian art among others. For those who would like to avoid the main line, it is always advisable to purchase tickets online.
7. Palace of Versailles - Seek straight for Versailles; this palace is excellent if you are bored with the city life and the throng. From Paris, take a train to the stunning fountains and sumptuous, luxurious apartments of the 17th-century Palace of Versailles; stroll through the well-known gardens using exact geometric designs and explore Marie Antoinette's residence.
8. Tuileries Garden Walk- Located between the Palace of Louvre and Place de la Concorde is the beautiful Tuileries Garden where you can rest after walking around. Enjoy an al fresco meal on the chairs and green grass while savoring the delights of Parisian cuisine, take time to appreciate sculpture installations placed randomly in the gardens, or rent a rowing boat and navigate across the large fountain water body.
9. Indulge in some window shopping – Paris is known for setting standards in high fashion, food, and style so perhaps there is no better place in the world to shop from windows. Although you may not go purchasing anything, just walking along such streets as Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, with the shops’ windows painted in warm, sunny colors, is quite a feast for the eyes.
10. Get Real and Feast on French Cuisine – just sipping a cup of coffee with a fat croissant is not how the French experience their gastronomic city. Other delicious foods that must be tasted in Paris include a confectionery crepe bought from a street vendor, French onion soup, rich chocolate croissants, cheese with French wine, and different colored macaroons.
11. Visit the Louvre and take a selfie with the Mona Lisa – Yes, it’s cliché but standing in front of one of art’s most famous masterpieces and taking a silly selfie is an experience you have to go through. The lady is not as tall as you may expect but she is still as iconic as Wanda with people surrounding her attempting to photograph her mysterious smile.
12. Experience a Paris Cabaret Show – Parisian cabaret shows are a perfect mix of French music, sheer glamor, energetic dances, humor, and nudity all wrapped up in a lively Parisian night. Two very famous shows the Moulin Rouge and Lido have lengthy performances that introduce audiences to the cabaret style.
There are infinite numbers of museums, remarkable landmarks, adorable cafes, beautiful Old Churches, and beautiful canton gardens located side by side with the river Seine so it is better to explore one arrondissement in each trip. Even though there are immense opportunities for tourists to engage in various activities in the City of Light, it is almost impossible to fit all those activities into one vacation.
Read More:
10 Top Tourist Attractions Must-See's in Southport NC
12 Great Vacation Spots to Visit Near Dallas
13 Unique Weekend Places to Visit in Florida
The 11 Safest Caribbean Islands to Travel
15 America's Most Beautiful Springtime Destinations
The 13 Top Places to Visit in Philadelphia
Top 10 of the most beautiful places in Paris
10 top-rated tourist attractions in Dubai
What is the best time to visit Paris?
Spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making them ideal times to visit.
How many days do I need to explore Paris?
To experience the city's highlights, 3-4 days is recommended. However, to fully immerse yourself in Parisian life, consider staying for a week or more.
Is Paris safe for tourists?
Paris is generally safe for tourists, but it's essential to take standard precautions as you would in any major city.
What are some free things to do in Paris?
Paris offers plenty of free activities, such as strolling along the Seine River, visiting parks like Luxembourg Gardens, and enjoying street performances.
What is the best way to experience the Parisian nightlife?
Paris has a vibrant nightlife scene with various options, including bars, clubs, and live music venues.