29 Best Things To Do In Paris (2024)

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From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to hidden gems like exploring quaint neighborhoods, this list of 27 things to do in Paris will cover all the bases whether it’s your first time or not to the city of Love.

I’ve been to Paris 5 times over the last 5 years, and even spent an entire month living in Paris to experience all the sights, and activities, and to experience the city like a local.

This list is a comprehensive guide on must-dos of Paris, and Paris travel tips along the way to make your trip to Paris unforgettable.

Things to do in Paris

 

Don’t miss this Paris Travel Tip:

One of my biggest Paris travel tips is to book your sightseeing tickets in advance, especially if you are traveling during the high season (Spring through Fall).

Iconic sights like the Louvre Museum, or Versailles can sell out for your preferred time.

When I visited Versailles in April, those without tickets had to wait 7 hours for the next available time slot. Instead of spending hours in line for a ticket, book tickets in advance.

I use GetYourGuide to book all my activities in advance, and with the app, you can see all your tickets in one place- no more printing out confirmations. Plus, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance if you can’t make your tour.

See top Paris attractions here.

 

 

 

 

First time in Paris?

If this is your first time in Paris, I recommend purchasing the Paris Pass to get deals when visiting the most iconic attractions. On average you can save up to 42% when using the Paris Pass vs. individual bookings.

Check out the Paris Pass

 

Now in no particular order, here are the top 27 things you need to do in Paris from iconic sights to hidden gems.

 

Seine River Cruise

A great way to see a different perspective of Paris and to see iconic sights is by taking a Seine River Cruise.

This popular tourist attraction is an hour long and you’ll see panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris Louvre  Museum, and pass under many bridges. 

This river cruise is available all year round from 10 AM to 10 PM and has both outdoor seating and indoor seating.

I recommend this to any first-time visitors and for those who love taking in iconic Parisian Views.

If you’re looking for something romantic?

seine river dinner cruise
Seine River Dinner Cruise

I would suggest the Seine River Dinner Cruise, which has a 3-course dinner and a longer 2.5
hour cruise on the water.

You get to take in the same iconic sights, but you’ll have a romantic view of the city of lights at night, and even catch the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

Also, you’ll find the dinner cruise to be more comfortable with plush seating, cozy candlelight interiors, and opportunities for beautiful photos.

 

 

Wander the Le Marais Neighborhood 

Place de Vosages
Place de Vosages in Le Marais

If you love to get lost and wander cobblestone streets with plenty of charm, you need to spend an afternoon in the trendy neighborhood of Le Marias.

Located in the 3rd & 4th arrondissements this neighborhood is filled with hip boutiques, shopping, cafes, museums, and galleries.

Just by wandering around you will get the essence of this neighborhood which was once the Jewish quarter, but still hosts many kosher restaurants, and bakeries.

One place not to miss is L’As du Fallafel, a famous falafel sandwich hot spot that serves delicious oversized falafel and shawarma sandwiches. Expect a line during lunch for both the inside restaurant and takeaway.

Paris Streets
La Favorite Saint-Paul in Le Marais

More Places to see when in Le Marais:

  • Place des Vosges: oldest planned square in Paris
  • Jardin de l’Hôtel de Sully: Gorgeous small lesser known garden in the heart of Le Marias
  • Archives Museum: Free French History museum housing typical French Interiors
  • Church of Saint-Paul of Saint-Louis: Beautiful church constructed from 1627-1641

Now you can fully explore Le Marais on your own by wandering the streets, shopping at the boutiques, and snagging a seat at an outdoor cafe to observe the crowds.

But, to even get a better understanding and learn more about this neighborhood, I highly suggest taking a guided walking tour

I took a guided tour and I learned so much about the neighborhood and was shown secret passageways and gardens throughout. I highly recommend a guided tour you enjoy learning history and discovering new places.

 

 

Climb the Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a monument dedicated to French soldiers and is home to one of the best views of Paris.

Located in the center of 12 radiating Avenues – the most famous being Champs Eleysses, you’ll catch 360-degree views of Paris and have a direct view of the Eiffel Tower.

While the top area can get a little crowded, you do get an unbeatable view of Paris. And an optimal time to visit would be a sunset to get dreamy hues over Paris.

The top of the Arc de Triomphe is reachable by climbing 284 steps through a round staircase, which can take 5 minutes. Thankfully there are two sets of stairs so there’s no foot traffic while coming down.

Open every day from 10 AM to 10:30 PM (11 pm during summer).

Book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line (a must for spring/ summer travel). 

 

 

Indulge in French Pastries & Croissants

best croissant paris
Almond Croissant from Sain Boulangerie

If you have a sweet tooth or love freshly baked bread, Paris is the city to be in. You’ll find gourmet patisseries and boulangerie nearly on every corner serving delicious fresh baked breads, croissants, french chocolates, Macaroons, cakes, and more!

Sometimes they look so beautiful, you don’t even want to take a bite!

Now the difference between a boulangerie and a patisserie is that to be called a boulangerie, bread must be made on the premises making fresh loaves of bread, croissants, and sweets with bread as a base. Whereas, a patisserie is known for specialties like chocolates, tarts, and cakes. 

Get a fresh croissant or pan au chocolat in the morning at a boulangerie (trust me they taste better fresh out of the oven), and end the evening with something sweet from a Patisserie. 

And when I spent a full month in Paris, it was my mission to find the best croissant, and here were my favorite boulangeries worth waiting in line for. 

  • Sain: The almond croissant… I’ll leave it there. A MUST. Plus everything else I sampled was incredible using all-natural ingredients.
  • Du Pain et des Idées: Buttery croissant with a slight crisp known served in a historic 1875 shop. 
  • La Maison d’Isabelle: Award-winning croissants, crispy outside soft interior in the heart of the Latin Quater

And here are some delicious Patisserie to get your sweet tooth on:

  • Pierre Herme: Locations all over Paris serving cakes, chocolates, and Maccaos
  • Michalak Paris: Serves unique sweet creations you won’t forget.
  • Yann Couvreur: Small menu but all delicious pastries

 

 

Shopping in Paris

Galeries Lafayatte
Galeries Lafayatte

While I have traveled to many places around the world, the shopping in Paris is truly unmatched.

You’ll find plenty of small boutiques, antique shops, perfumeries, leather goods stores, thrifts, luxury stores; as well as well-known brands found in the U.S.

And you’ll find these shops all over Paris, tempting you wherever you go.

Some of my favorite stores & places to shop when in Paris are:

  • Polene: Parisian Leather Goods Shop selling quality bags for under $500 – read my Polene Bag Review
  • Galeries Lafayatte: Huge department store with rooftop views
  • Perfume: You’ll no doubt find a new signature scent in France. Some of my favorites are Memo Paris, Parfums de Marly, Guerlain, and BDK perfumes.
  • Rue Saint Honore: Street lined with ultra-luxury shops- the place to shop for your designer items.
  • Champs Elysees: Another famous street lined with designer and popular shops, yet it’s more crowded than Rue Saint Honore.
  • Citi Pharma: The place to shop for the best price on French beauty brands like Nuxe, Caudalie, La Roch Posy, and More!

Before you shop in Paris:

If you are a U.S. citizen, take advantage of the VAT tax refund when shopping in Paris for purchases over 100 euros. 

There is a 20% tax on merchandise purchased in Paris, which sticker shocked me when shopping at Zara. You’ll get your tax refunded when you have receipts in 3 consecutive days and make purchases over 100 euros in one transaction.

Just bring your passport when shopping, and the sales associate will give you a special receipt for you to scan at the airport when leaving Paris. 

 

 

Wander the Montmartre Neighborhood

things to do in Paris Montmartre
Le Consulat in Montmartre

Another village you must wander around is Montmartre, located in the 18th arrondissement. 

This hilltop village was where famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and many more lived, and worked in studios in Montmartre.

You can sense this artistic charm throughout the winding cobblestone streets that fill the surrounding area. Plus because Montmartre is a hilltop village, you get incredible views of the city.

Take an afternoon wandering the cobblestone streets, taking in the views, and having lunch at an outdoor cafe to people-watch.

Sacre Coeur
Basilica Sacre Cour

Places in Montmarte you can’t miss:

  • Basilica Sacre Cour: At the summit of Montmartre, a Roman Catholic Church
  • Montmarte Square: Iconic square lined with cafes, and artists painting your self-portrait.
  • I love You Wall Mural: Mural featuring 250 languages saying “I love you” (undergoing renovations 2024)
  • Le Clos Montmartre: Secret tiny Vineyard that produces 27 varieties of wine

Tip for Visiting Montmartre

The village of Montmartre is located on top of a hill, so that means you’ll be walking up a lot of stairs to reach the top by the Sacre Cour Church.

You can take a Funicular tram to avoid the steps, which costs as much as one metro ride. (You can use your Navigo Easy Pass)

Additionally, if you get off at the Abbesses metro stop, the deepest metro stop in Paris- be sure to take the elevator up to the street level. Otherwise, you’ll be climbing a 176-step spiral (feels like a never-ending) staircase.

Don’t want to miss a thing in Montmartre?

If you want to experience the highlights of Montmarte, I highly suggest taking a guided walking tour to learn more about this artistic neighborhood and cover all the highlights.

Book Montmarte Walking Tour

 

Cheese & Wine Lunch

Want to know something about the French? They can do wine and cheese like no other.

And why not have an ideal French afternoon tasting 5 kinds of wine from 5 different regions of France, paired with delicious cheeses?

This wine & cheese tasting was one of the highlights of my Paris trip because I learned so much about wine and cheese pairing. Plus if you can’t make it out to the wine regions of France, this tasting tour will make you feel like you did!

 

La Grande Épicerie de Paris

If you are a foodie, you have to visit La Grande Épierie de Paris, the most luxurious and famous grocery store spanning multiple levels.

It’s a luxury store, but for everything food, cooking, and home accessories!

Here you can find quality food products from around the World plus it’s a great place to take souveniers home like sauces, spices, quality French butter (which can be vacuumed sealed for transport), wine and so much more.

Wander the gourmet aisles and levels, and bring back some Parisian staples!

Things to take with you:

  • Madagascar butter
  • French Jams & French Dijon Mustard

There are two locations in Paris:

  1. 38 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris – More iconic of the two.
  2. 80 Rue de Passy, ​​75016 Paris – Closer to the Eiffel Tower

 

People Watch at Cafe De Flore

Cafe De Flore
Cafe De Flore in Saint Germain De Pres

One of my favorite things to do is have a seat at a cafe at an outdoor table and just people-watch.

While you can do this at any cafe in Paris, why not do it at one of the most famous ones; Cafe de Flore.

Located in the Latin Quarter, Cafe de Flore is one of the oldest coffee houses in Paris, known for its celebrity and artist clientele throughout the years.

And if you’re a foodie like me, these were my favorite restaurants in Paris that I tried when I lived there for a month!

Cafe de Flore

Head there for a nice brunch or lunch after sightseeing to rest your feet and indulge in French pastries and coffee. I ordered an omelet and cappuccino here, and it was very tasty even though it’s priced higher than other cafes. It’s a bucket list cafe to check off your list!

Be sure to head upstairs to check out the merchandise available. While pricy, you can come home with Cafe du Flore cappuccino cups, coffee cups, plates, and servewear.

 

Discover Covered Passageways

Galerie Vivienne
Covered Passageway: Galerie Vivienne

Dating back to the 18th & 19th centuries, covered passageways (Les Passages Couverts de Paris in French) served as covered passages housing shops, boutiques, and restaurants filled with ornate decor, stained glass, and beautiful tiles, taking you back to the time of the Belle Epoque.

Unfortunately, not many are left in Paris, and are lovely to discover. Plus they are free to visit and offer handy shelter from rain.

The most famous covered passageway is the Galerie Vivienne (4 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002 Paris), located in the 2nd Arrondossement home to the oldest bookshops in Paris, Librairie F Jousseaume.

Galerie Vivienne
Librairie F Jousseaume in Galerie Vivienne

Other beautiful passageways include:

  • Passage of Panoramas
  • Passage Verdeau

Want to learn more?

If you love architecture, and history, and need a rainy-day activity? You can take a guided tour of the Covered Passagways that cover the most famous ones, and provide a look into hidden gems of Paris. 

Book Covered Passage Guided Tour

 

 

Shop at a Brocante (Flea Market)

Paris Flea Market
Paris Flea Market

If want to search for hidden gems, I highly recommend checking out a Brocante, also known as a flea market. You’ll find local vendors selling everything from mostly home decor, furniture, tableware, and vintage fashion.

These happen every week in different locations throughout Paris. Some are larger than others, but it’s a great local activity that you can do while in Paris.

To find a Brocante during your visit to Paris, look at this website where they map out different brocantes happening throughout the week. 

I visited a few flea markets during my time in Paris and I bought a vintage ornate gold framed picture for 35 €, two vintage scarves from  Chloe and Salvatore Ferragamo (60 € & 70 €), and vintage posters of kitchen herbs for 5 € each.

 

 

Explore Paris by Bike

Things to do in Paris
Latin Quarter

If you are limited on time or want a more unique way to see Paris, renting a bike is a great way to see more and get around like a local.

Now this is not for the faint of heart. Biking in Paris is not like the U.S. and you’ll find narrow cobblestone streets and different traffic patterns.

So to get the experience, without having a panic attack, I recommend a guided bike tour of Paris.

There is a fantastic 3-hour guided bike tour that takes you through flat, less trafficked areas where you’ll learn more about the city, and cover way more ground than you would walking! Plus it’s a great spring/summer activity! https://gyg.me/UWoXTs1L

Book Guided Bike Tour of Paris

 

Louvre Musuem

Louvre Museum

A visit to the Louvre is any history lover’s dream. It’s home to famous artwork like the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, The Wedding at Cana, and Venus de Milo to name a few.

The location was previously a royal palace, now hosts over 35,000 pieces of artwork inside spanning 9 miles of corridors within its three wings.

So no, you won’t be able to see everything in one visit. In fact, it would take many visits to truly see everything.

Now a visit to the Louvre can be overwhelming if you don’t plan properly. It’s the most visited museum in the world with 15,000 visitors a day, (purchasing tickets in advance is a must for smooth entry) and mostly everyone heads straight to see the Mona Lisa.

While the Mona Lisa is something to see, the room that houses the Mona Lisa is incredibly crowded with tourists. Have a look and take time to spread out throughout the many corridors of the museum.

Louvre Museum
Napoleon III Apartments at the Louvre

One of my favorite parts of the Louvre is the Napoleon III apartments that boast stunning royal French interiors and almost intact settings from 1861.

If you can’t make it to Versailles, this part of the Louvre gives you a similar setting.

Note: Napoleon III apartments are being renovated. Closed until May 2024

Louvre Museum

Tips for visiting the Louvre Museum:

  • Purchase your tickets in Advance. A must if you don’t want to wait 2+ hours in line.
  • You won’t see everything, have a plan on your must see’s. View a Louvre museum map before you go to circle what you want to see.
  • Don’t go on an empty stomach. You’ll need fuel to visit the Louvre, and nothing is fun when you’re hungry. While there is a Cafe inside you can’t bring any food into the galleries, and expect lines.
  • Allow 2+ hours to experience the Louvre

Book Louvre Musuem Tickets 

 

More Museums to Visit:

One of the best things to do in Paris when it rains is to visit a museum.

Now that’s pretty common advice so I wouldn’t go for the Louvre, but I do suggest visiting one of the 136 other museums like Musee Gustave Moreau, Musée d’Orsay, or the Musée National Picasso-Paris.

Book Museums in advance:

 

Visit the Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower from Trocadero

A trip to Paris is not complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower, one of Europe’s most famous monuments.

This wrought-ironed historical monument is named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower from 1887 to 1889.

Now there are a few ways you can take in the beauty of the Eiffel Tower.

In my opinion, the best views of the Eiffel Tower are across the Seine at Place du Trocadero. Here you’ll find everyone snapping a picture and taking in the views.

Another great view is directly below the Eiffel Tower on the Pont d’Iéna bridge.

best things to do in Paris

However,

There are so many amazing places to see the Eiffel Tower, these Eiffel Tower photo spots need to be on your radar to get the best views!

Now beyond just taking in the Eiffel Tower, you can also visit inside the tower on your own, or with a guided tour with elevator access.

You’ll learn about the history of the Eiffel Tower while taking in the most stunning views of Paris.

Book Guided Eiffel Tower Tour 

You can even dine in the Eiffel Tower at Madame Brassiere for a truly memorable dining experience. P.S. The food is incredible & I highly recommend it for a special occasion.

If you can’t get enough of the Eiffel Tower, consider staying in a Hotel with an Eiffel Tower view!

 

Picnic on Champ de Mars

Enjoy Paris like a Parisian and have a picnic on Champ de Mars, which is the park located near the Eiffel Tower for the most iconic Parisian view.

Gather your picnic staples like French bread, brie, dried meats, fresh fruit, and French wine on Rue Cler, one of the best market streets in Paris.

On Rue Cler, you’ll find a cobblestone pedestrian-friendly street right next to the Eiffel Tower with plenty of shops, and local markets.

P.S. Another great picnic spot is anywhere along the Seine River. During warmer days, I like to pick a spot facing the Louvre Musuem to take in the views and to wave to boats passing by.

And Yes,

It is legal to drink in public, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy French wine with a view.

 

Relax in French Gardens

things to do in Paris Framce
Tuileries Gardens in Spring

There is nothing like resting your feet after a long day of touring in one of Paris’ many manicured gardens. There are two that are just spectacular: The Tuileries Gardens and the Luxembourg Gardens.

Tuileries Gardens

Located right next to the Louvre, the Tuileries garden is the perfect place to relax with many places to sit, and take in the views. You’re surrounded by statues and you’ll see the Sacre Coeur in the distance. 

Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens are an oasis inside the hustle of Paris located in the Latin Quarter in the 6th arrondissement.

With over 25 hectares of land with French and English gardens, it’s an ideal place to find a quiet moment on your trip to Paris.

You’ll find a pond with 1920s toy sailboats and plenty of spots on 1923-designed green metal chairs.

If you can’t fit this in your first trip to Paris, don’t sweat it. But if you love gardens and you want to spend a beautiful day outside, it’s worth the visit.

 

Montparnasse Tower

Another great vantage point of Paris is taking in the 360-degree views on top of the 56th floor of the Montparnasse Tower.

From the top, you get incredible views of the entire city including front and center views of the Eiffel Tower.

The observation deck is located on two levels with both indoor (56th floor) and outdoor terrace viewing (59th floor).

Plus you can download their smartphone app to access clips stories and 3D reconstructions of Paris for an even more in-depth experience.

The view is incredible either during the day or night, but if you can get here during sunset, you’ll have a magical view over the city.

The average price per ticket is around $20

Get Montparnasse Tickets

 

Shakespere & Company

Shakespeare and company paris

Arguably one of the most iconic English bookshops in Paris, Shakespeare & Company opened in 1951, is a classic bookstore with a worn cozy feel that became a center for expat life for many famous authors. Plus, it’s been featured in films including, “Midnight in Paris”. 

And since 2015, you can sit and enjoy a coffee at the café next door to take in the view of Cathedral Notre-Dame.

If you find yourself in the Latin Quarter, this is an establishment not to be missed- however, expect lines on the weekends to the bookshop.

 

Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier, also known as the Opera Garnier, is Europe’s largest Opera house that boasts stunning 19th-century architecture- made famous by the book Phantom of the Opera.

You can visit the public areas of the Opera, and you’ll find the grand staircase, stunning rooms, and corridors throughout. And to me, it’s one of the most beautiful places you can see in Paris.

Book entry tickets in advance

 

See a Cabaret Show

crazy horse paris
Crazy Horse Paris

Transport yourself back in time and see a Cabaret Show. While things have gotten more modern throughout the years, a cabaret is an iconic Parisian thing to do for nighttime entertainment.

Moulin Rouge

The most well-known cabaret is the Moulin Rouge, which opened in 1889. While the original building burnt down in a fire in 1915, the show was kept alive showing the energetic and provocative French cancan dance.

The show “Féerie” today features four acts with all kinds of dancing, and circus acts, with over-the-top costumes with rhinestones and feathers for a memorable night out in Paris.

Get Moulin Rouge Tickets

Crazy Horse

crazy horse paris
Shop Sparkle Top on Amazon

Another Cabaret show which is a little lesser known, and a bit more naughty is Crazy Horse. At Le Crazy Horse, you’ll find a smaller intimate stage with partially nude cabaret dancers showcasing creative and unique acts.

I’ve been to Crazy Horse twice, and the show is something to be seen!

Get Crazy Horse Tickers

 

 

Take in the free Views at Galeries Lafayette

Things to do in Paris
View from Galeries Lafayette

Located on the 8th floor of the Galeries Lafayette department store is a free observation deck open all year round with great views of the Palais Garnier, Sacre Couer, and the Eiffel Tower.

It’s an ideal spot to take a break and enjoy incredible free views. In the summer months, you’ll even find pop-up restaurants to enjoy a meal or a drink.

The nicer the weather, the more popular this spot gets, but it’s still worth the free admission!

Hours: Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays and Public Holidays11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

P.S. Don’t forget to shop around Galeries Lafateytte, where you’ll find 290 shops and dining experiences.

 

Drink Hot Chocolate

Paris Hot Chocolate
Carette Hot Chocolate

If you love chocolate, you must try the decadent hot chocolate in one of Paris’ most iconic and elegant café: Carette Paris

There are two Carette Locations, and the location nearest the Eiffel Tower usually always has a line. My biggest tip is to visit the Carette in Le Marias at Place de Vosages. You’ll find a nice outside patio with views of the park that is less busy than the Eiffel Tower. 

Be sure to opt for the whipped cream for your hot chocolate- perfect for any cold day in Paris. 

Angelina Café is another popular and iconic place for hot chocolate in Paris. 

 

Visit Sainte-Chapelle

Saint Chapelle

Before Versailles came Sainte-Chapelle, a gothic-style church located on the Île de la Cité finished in 1248 that housed King Louis IX’s personal holy relics including the Holy Crown.

Try to visit on a sunny day to see the interior 1,113 stained glass windows radiate at their best. However, no matter when you visit, it will truly take your breath away.

You can opt for an admission ticket, or a guided tour of Sainte-Chapelle and the island of Île de la Cité.

 

 

Visit Chateau Versailles

hall of mirrors versailles
Hall of Mirrors at Versailles

Located just out of the Paris city center is the Palace of Versailles, which was a former royal residence commissioned by King Louis XIV. If you want to see something truly incredible- a visit to Versailles is a must.

Now a visit to Europe’s largest Chateau, Versailles will take half a day, but it’s worth it. There is a direct train on the RER C line from the city center of Paris which takes 45 minutes to reach Versailles. 

Inside the Chateau you’ll find 2,300 rooms with artwork, 17th-century furnishings, and the most iconic room: the Hall of Mirrors.

Versailles
Shop Dress

The Hall of Mirrors was the court’s main reception room, connecting the King and Queens apartments. The mirrors reflect the Versailles Gardens and are adorned with 43 chandeliers.

The scale of the Palace and the gardens is truly magical. In fact, the gardens are so big it would take 2 hours to walk through them as suggested on their garden walk. 

Now because Versailles is one of the most popular tourist sights in Paris, here are some tips that will help your visit.

Tips for visiting Chateau Versailles:

  • Purchase your tickets in advance & book the earliest time slot. Expect Versailles to be busy every day it’s open, but getting there in the first time slot will make your visit more enjoyable.
  • Allow 3+ hours to visit: There is so much to see, so allow yourself over 3 hours to fully enjoy. Especially when the weather is nice, the gardens could be a visit in and of itself.
  • Book a guided tour or purchase the audio guide headset. There is so much history to learn about Versailles. I opted to visit without any guide, and halfway through touring I went to the entrance and purchased the audio guide. I learned so much more than just walking through.
  • Versailles is Closed on Mondays

Book Versailles Entry Tickets

 

Take Another Day Trip out of Paris

If your visit allows it, there are great day trip opportunities outside of Paris.

Whether you want to visit Champagne France and sample some glasses of bubbly, or visit one of the many Chateaus in the Loire Valley- a day trip is a great way to experience even more French culture.

  • Champagne France: If you love Champagne like me, a day trip to the Champagne region is what dreams are made of. Have 8 champagne tastings and lunch with a guided tour of champagne houses
  • Loire Valley Castles: Visit fairytale castles in the Loire Valley followed by wine tasting on this dreamy full-day tour
  • Giverny: Take a half-day guided tour of Claude Monet’s Giverny estate. This activity is ideal during spring and summer when you can see all the flowers in bloom which inspired many water lilies paintings.

 

Who should take a day trip outside of Paris?

I’d recommend a day trip for those visiting Paris for more than 4 full days, or if you’ve been to Paris a few times.

There is so much to discover in Paris itself, that a day trip can take anywhere over 10+ hours.

If you can’t make a day trip happen on your visit, it gives you an excuse to come back!

 

 

 

More Things to do in Paris:

  • Big Bus Tour: As touristy as a Big Bus tour is, I find it’s a fantastic way to see Paris without too much walking- great if you are short on time!
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral: Medieval catholic church still being renovated after the fire in 2019.
  • Catacombs: Yes, you can visit the largest ossuary in the world nearly 5,000 feet of underground tunnels with 6 million buried skeletons. It’s advised to go only on a guided tour of the Catacombs.

 

Latin Quarter Paris
Latin Quater in Paris

 

What shouldn’t you miss in Paris?

Now I’ve mentioned many things to do in Paris, but like any large city, you probably will have to pick and choose the top things to do.

If it’s your first time in Paris, here are my recommendations on 6 things to do in Paris for your ultimate bucket list.

  1. Eiffel Tower
  2. Seine River Cruise
  3. Louvre Museum
  4. Arc de Triomphe
  5. Opera Garnier
  6. Chateau Versailles
 

 

 

Travel Tip:  A great way to see all of these Paris bucket list things is by booking a BigBus Paris Tour. You’ll be transported via bus to all the top things to do, (except Versailles) and you’ll have the opportunity to get off and explore.

My first time in Paris, the bus tour was extremely helpful to see everything, while not getting too tired from walking everywhere.

Book BigBus Tour

 

Le Marias Paris
Le Marias Paris

 

FAQ:

Can you do Paris in 3 days?

Like with any city, the more time you have, the more you can see. However, you can check off some major sights in three days.

In three full days in Paris, you can cover 5 top things to do, while adding in time to check out restaurants, cafes, and shops. But, just note you will be visiting Paris at a fast pace.

Remember, travel days arriving and leaving Paris can take some time- especially if you are checking into a hotel.

 

How many days in Paris is ideal?

In my opinion, to have enough time to see major sights, and have some downtime, I would recommend at least 5 nights and 4 full days to visit Paris.

I did a 5-night, 4-full-day trip in Paris and managed to see all of the sights, and did a half-day trip to Versailles at a fantastic pace.

Of course, the more days you add you can do Paris at a more relaxed pace, just like the Parisians.

Watch my Paris Travel Vlog on a sample 4 full-day Paris Itinerary to get some ideas going.

 

Heading to Paris? Be sure to check out my other Paris Posts:

Paris Hotels:

Hotels in Paris with an Eiffel Tower View

Travel Guides:

Bloggers Guide to Paris

Secret Eiffel Tower Photo Locations

 

 

I hope you enjoyed this Post of Things to do in Paris. With any trip to a large city, you won’t be able to check off everything on your list on your first visit, but Paris is a great city to keep coming back to to discover new things!

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Things to do in Paris

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