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Things to do in Paris

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Paris has been around for more than 2,000 years and is also known as ‘city of love’ and ‘city of lights.’

It is a magical city known to cast an unbreakable spell on every first-time visitor.

If its tourist attractions are to go by, Paris is grand, beautiful, and pure art.

It has grand attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, etc., beautiful places such as the Palace of Versailles, Sainte Chapelle, Sacré-Cœur, and of course art museums such as Louvre, Musee d’ Orsay, Centre Pompidou, etc.

Paris’s mystical ambiance has a way of romancing the visitors and start a lifelong love affair.

Discover the top tourist attractions in this romantic city with our list of the things to do in Paris.

Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum, Paris
Gustavo Ramos / Getty Images

Louvre Museum in Paris is the world’s best art museum and is home to Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

More than 30,000 tourists line up to enter The Louvre daily, adding up to around 10 million visitors annually.

# Mona Lisa in Louvre Museum
# Louvre Museum’s glass pyramid
# Visiting Louvre Museum at night
# Private tours of Louvre Museum
# Louvre Museum or Musee d’Orsay
# Fun facts about the Louvre Museum
# From Louvre Museum to Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower in Paris
RossHelen / Getty Images

Eiffel Tower in Paris is the most-visited paid monument in the world.

The 135-year-old Eiffel Tower has four levels – the Esplanade, the first floor, the second floor, and The Summit. Each level has different entry tickets.

Every year more than seven million tourists go up the Eiffel Tower to see stunning views of Paris.

Eiffel Tower at night

Eiffel Tower at night
Ivanmateev / Getty Images

When darkness falls over the city, Paris doesn’t go to sleep. Instead, it gets ready for a second innings under the lights. Visit Eiffel Tower at night to see the other side.

Eiffel Tower restaurants 

Eiffel Tower restaurant in Paris
Image: Toureiffel.paris

Snuggled up in Eiffel Tower’s stunning iron frame are two paradises for food lovers – Eiffel Tower restaurants Le 58 Tour Eiffel and Le Jules Verne. 

Eiffel Tower to Louvre

Eiffel Tower to Louvre Museum
Gritsivoleksandr & Leah Kelly

Many tourists on a Parisian holiday end up visiting the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum on the same day. Find out how to go from Eiffel Tower to The Louvre.

Palace of Versailles

Palace of Versailles
Image: Leonid Andronov

The Palace of Versailles, just outside of Paris, is one of the best Royal residences in the World.

The Versailles Estate has three distinct parts – the Palace of Versailles, the Versailles Gardens Queen, and Marie Antoinette’s domain.

The Palace of Versailles has 2,300 rooms spread over 63,154 square meters (that’s more than 12 football fields) and is one part of the Versailles Estate.

More than 10 million tourists visit the Palace of Versailles every year.

# What’s inside Palace of Versailles
# Hall of Mirrors in Versailles Palace
# Palace of Versailles Gardens
# How to reach Palace of Versailles
# History of Palace of Versailles

Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris tickets
Craig Adderley / Pexels

Walt Disney Company owns Disneyland Paris, which was initially called Euro Disney Resort.

It opened on 12th April 1992 and has seen around 350 million visitors in 30 years, making it the most visited theme park in Europe.

It has two theme parks, many resort hotels, a shopping center, multiple dining options, an entertainment complex, and a Golf course.

The two theme parks in Disneyland Paris are Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

# Rides at Disneyland Paris
# Minimum height requirements for rides
# Wait times at Disneyland rides
# Disneyland Paris packages
# Admission: One-day tickets, two-day tickets
# Disneyland Paris Fast Pass
# Disneyland’s Standby Pass
# Photopass at Disneyland Paris
# Popular attractions at Disneyland

Arc de Triomphe

Arc De Triomphe in Paris
MatthewLeesdixon / Getty Images

Napoleon I commissioned Arc de Triomphe in 1806 to celebrate the most extraordinary times of the French military’s prowess.

Everybody falls in love with the fantastic Parisian view from the observatory space at the top of this massive arc.

Almost two million tourists visit Arc de Triomphe every year.

# Facts about Arc de Triomphe

Musee d’Orsay

Musee dOrsay, Paris
Image: Ruslangilmanshin

Musee d’Orsay is home to some of the best Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings in the World.

Famous artists at d’Orsay Museum include Renoir, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, Degas, Cézanne, Seurat, Sisley, Gauguin etc.

More than 3 million tourists visit Musee d’Orsay annually.

# Facts about Musee d’Orsay

Centre Pompidou

Centre Pompidou in Paris
DigitalImagination / Getty Images

The Centre Pompidou is a 20th-century contemporary architecture and art Museum designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers.

Besides architecture, the popular Parisian attraction showcases music, cinema, photography, and multimedia.

To top it all, Centre Pompidou has a beautiful 6th-floor rooftop offering panoramic views over Paris.

Sainte Chapelle

Sainte Chapelle, Paris
Ingenui / Getty Images

Sainte Chapelle in Paris was built to house priceless Christian relics, including Christ’s crown of thorns.

The Holy Chapel has 15 stained glass windows, each 15 meters high, and together they depict more than 1100 scenes from the Old and New Testaments narrating the world’s history.

Annually more than a million tourists visit this chapel, which holds religious significance for believers.

Sainte Chapelle is also referred to as the Holy Chapel.

Paris Zoo

Animal in Vincennes Zoo
Image: Dylan Mullins

Paris Zoo is home to more than 2000 animals of 180 different species and a favorite among kids and adults. 

More commonly known as Vincennes Zoo, it has been part of Parisian heritage for more than eight decades. 

The zoo is divided into five biozones, each replicating the native ecosystem of the animals.

Pantheon Paris

Pantheon in Paris
Filadendron / Getty Images

The Pantheon is a building in the Latin Quarter in Paris, France.

First, it was a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris in the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions.

Today Pantheon in Paris functions as a secular mausoleum containing the remains of distinguished French citizens such as Marie Curie, Pierre Curie, Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, etc.

Paris Catacombs

Paris Catacombs
Image: Catacombes.paris.fr

The Catacombs of Paris are one of the earliest tourist attractions of the city – curious people have been visiting Paris Municipal Ossuary since 1809.

Paris Catacombs were originally limestone quarries, which now hold human remains of more than six million Parisians. 

This incredible experience involves stacked bones and skulls in the underground, below the City of Lights.

Opéra Garnier

Opera Garnier in Paris
PobladuraFCG / Getty Images

Opéra Garnier, also known as Palais Garnier, is a 1,979-seat opera house in Paris. 

Ace French architect Charles Garnier built the structure from 1861 to 1875 at Emperor Napoleon III’s request. 

Till 1989, Paris Opera performed at Opéra Garnier, after which they moved to a new building called the Opéra Bastille.

Today, the company uses Palais Garnier primarily for ballet and offers tours for visitors who want to explore the interiors of the beautiful architectural jewel of Paris. 

Visitors who want to explore the interiors of the beautiful architectural jewel book Opera Garnier tours.

Picasso Museum Paris

Picasso Museum in Paris
Image: Museepicassoparis.fr

Picasso Museum in Paris showcases the paintings, drawings, engravings, and sculptures of the Spanish-born artist Pablo Picasso.

Also called Musée National Picasso, the museum exhibits 400 of his best works, and paintings by other artists such as Paul Cézanne, Henri Rousseau, and Henri Matisse, which were part of Picasso’s collection.

With around 5000 items on display, it is the most extensive collection of works of the most well-known artist of the 20th century.

Montparnasse Tower

Montparnasse Tower, Paris
Image: Tourmontparnasse56.com

Montparnasse Tower has two observation decks – on the 56th and 59th floors and offers sweeping views of Paris.

The viewing platform is at the height of 210 meters (690 feet), and one of the highlights is the opportunity to travel in the fastest elevator in Europe.

Often referred to as Tour Montparnasse, this Parisian attraction is a massive hit with both adults and kids. 

Grand Palais Immersif

Grand Palais Immersif
Image: GrandPalais-Immersif.fr

Grand Palais Immersif, located in the heart of Paris, combines a historical site’s grandeur with innovative technology.

Originally built in 1900 for the Exposition Universelle, this architectural masterpiece has long symbolized artistic excellence.

The Grand Palais Immersif has undergone an incredible transformation in recent years, embracing the concept of immersive art experiences. 

Aquaboulevard

Aquaboulevard
Image: WhiteWaterWest.com

Aquaboulevard is Europe’s largest urban water park and a paradise for thrill seekers who want an escape from the bustling city streets.

From high-speed slides that twist and turn to tube slides that provide an adrenaline-pumping rush, there is something for everyone.

Conciergerie

Conciergerie
Image: Wikipedia.org

Conciergerie, perched on the Île de la Cité, a small island on the Seine River in the heart of Paris, is a historical gem that has witnessed centuries of intrigue, despair, and transformation.

With its imposing medieval architecture and rich history, the former royal palace turned prison is a testament to the city’s enduring past and has played a significant role in shaping the narrative of France. 

Grévin Wax Museum

Grévin Wax Museum
Image: TripAdvisor.in

Grévin Wax Museum is a truly unforgettable experience that will take you into the dazzling world of celebrities.

From Hollywood A-listers to French actors, Bollywood icons to sporting legends, over 200 lifelike wax figures are waiting to captivate you. 

Capture memorable moments with Ryan Gosling, Marilyn Monroe, Louis XIV, Mozart, and many more at the museum.

Grande Galerie de l’Évolution

Grande Galerie de l'Évolution
Image: Wikipedia.org

Grande Galerie de l’Évolution is a Natural History Museum where you can learn about nearly 7000+ species. 

This is one place where you can time travel backward and see how different animals and birds evolved and then vanished!

The Gallery of Evolution is a family-friendly museum and a must-visit if you and your kids love wildlife and nature.

Château de Fontainebleau

Château de Fontainebleau
Image: Wikipedia.org

Château de Fontainebleau (in French) or Palace of Fontainebleau is the largest French royal châteaux.

From Louis VII to Napoleon III, various French kings lived in this medieval castle that later was transformed into a palace.

Due to its distinctive and magnificent architecture and historical significance, it was recognized as a national museum in 1927 and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981.

Musée du quai Branly

Musée du quai Branly
Image: Pinterest.com

The Musée du Quai Branly, also known as the Quai Branly Museum, is a prominent museum in Paris, France. 

It showcases the art, cultures, and civilizations of indigenous peoples from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. 

The museum was inaugurated in 2006 and has since become a significant cultural institution in the city.

Hotel de la Marine

hotel de la marine
Image: Tiqets.com

The Hôtel de la Marine, a famous and historic structure in Paris, France, has been used for many different things over the course of its existence. 

It was initially constructed in the 18th century as a royal house for Louis XV’s naval minister, but it eventually changed its use to become the French Navy’s command center. 


Château de Chantilly

Château de Chantilly
Image: ChateauDeChantilly.fr

The Château de Chantilly is a historic castle located in Chantilly, France, approximately 50 kilometers north of Paris.

It is renowned for its stunning architecture, extensive art collections, picturesque gardens, and rich cultural heritage. 

The château is considered one of the finest examples of French Renaissance architecture and is a popular destination for tourists and art enthusiasts.

Bourse De Commerce

Bourse De Commerce
Image: PinaultCollection.com

The Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection is a contemporary art museum in the heart of Paris. 

Housed in the restored and transformed 18th-century Bourse de Commerce building, it is the third art institution of art collector Francois Pinault. 

The museum showcases Pinault’s extensive collection of contemporary work, assembled over 40 years.

Thoiry ZooSafari

Thoiry ZooSafari
Image: Thoiry.net

Thoiry ZooSafari is a unique and exciting wildlife park located in Thoiry, France.

It offers visitors a one-of-a-kind experience by combining a traditional zoo with an immersive safari adventure. 

The park covers a vast area and is home to a diverse range of animal species worldwide.

Louis Vuitton Foundation

Louis Vuitton Foundation
Image: FondationLouisVuitton.fr

The Louis Vuitton Foundation is a museum of modern art in Paris, France’s Bois de Boulogne. It was opened in 2014. 

In addition to the permanent collection that displays the works of renowned and upcoming artists worldwide, this fascinating museum hosts temporary exhibitions in addition to its modern and contemporary art collections.

Les Invalides

Les Invalides
Image: Wikipedia.org

Les Invalides is a historic complex located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, France.

It was originally built as a hospital and retirement home for war veterans by King Louis XIV in the late 17th century. 

Today, Les Invalides Paris is a museum and a burial site for some of France’s most renowned military figures.

Jardin d’Acclimatation

Jardin d'Acclimatation
Image: Jardindacclimatation.fr

The Jardin d’Acclimatation is a charming garden and amusement park in Paris. 

Initially opened as a zoological park in 1860 by Napoléon III and Empress Eugénie with a glorious vision, it transformed into a fun-filled amusement park with time.

Spread across 49 acres, Jardin d’Acclimatation is a blend of traditional and modern rides and has something in offer for children and adults alike.

Musée Jacquemart-André

Musée Jacquemart-André
Image: ADMagazine.fr

Musée Jacquemart-André is a stunning museum with an extensive collection of art and artifacts.

This beautiful museum showcases the best of French and European art from the 18th and 19th centuries. 

The elegant architecture, exquisite paintings, and intricate sculptures at the Musée Jacquemart-André are sure to fascinate enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Ménagerie of the Jardin des Plantes

Menagerie of the Jardin des Plantes
Image: JardindesPlantesdeParis.fr

Ménagerie of the Jardin des Plantes Paris is the oldest zoo that opened in the 18th century (1794) and is still operational.

You can learn about an extensive range of creatures, some even endangered, in Ménagerie of the Jardin des Plantes.

The Ménagerie has 1200 occupants, including Red pandas, snow leopards, Arabian oryx, orangutans, pythons, Aldabra Giant Tortoises, flamingos, and many more!

Musée de l’Orangerie

Musée de l'Orangerie
Image: Musee-Orangerie.fr

The Musée de l’Orangerie in Paris, situated in the west corner of the Tuileries Garden, showcases a beautiful collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. 

The Musée de l’Orangerie Paris served as a temporary barrack and storage space for soldiers during World War I before being turned into a world-class modern museum.

Marmottan Monet Museum

Marmottan Monet Museum
Image: Marmottan.fr

The Musée Marmottan Monet houses the largest collection of the works of Claude Monet.

Experience a unique and unforgettable combination of art and history at the Marmottan Monet Museum in Paris.

The Marmottan Monet Museum is a must-see destination for seasoned art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise Cemetery
Image: Pierre Antona on Unsplash

Père Lachaise Cemetery in Paris is more than just a final resting place; it’s a testament to Parisian heritage, a sanctuary of peace, and a repository of fascinating stories.

Each tombstone narrates a tale, and the serene ambiance offers a unique opportunity to reflect on life’s ephemeral nature.

Parc Astérix

Parc Astérix Paris
Image: ParcAsterix.fr

Parc Astérix is a theme park in France based on the comic book series Asterix

At Parc Astérix, you can join Asterix, Obelix, and their friends on their adventures, experience thrilling rides, watch entertaining shows, and even meet the characters themselves. 

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a fan of the comic series, Parc Astérix promises an unforgettable experience.

Paradis Latin

Paradis Latin Paris
Image: Paradislatin.com

Paradis Latin is a renowned cabaret in Paris, known for its vibrant shows that combine dance, music, and comedy. 

Housed in a building designed by Gustave Eiffel, the venue is steeped in history and has been a part of Parisian nightlife for over a century.

Paris Aquarium

Paris Aquarium
Image: Tiqets.com

The Paris Aquarium is a captivating destination with an impressive collection of marine life and exhibits offering an immersive and educational experience for both young and old alike. 

Also known as Cinéaqua, the Paris Aquarium takes you on a fascinating journey to the mesmerizing realm of the oceans and the underwater world. 

Dali Paris

Dali Paris
Image: Daliparis.com

Dali Paris is a great place for art connoisseurs as it houses exclusive artworks from one of the greatest artists in art history– Salvador Dali.

Get ready to dive into the surreal world of Salvador Dalí at the Dali Paris Museum, located in the vibrant Montmartre district.

The paintings of Salvador Dali are visually stunning and thought-provoking. He, undoubtedly, stands apart from the rest of the artists of the 20th century for what he had created.

Crazy Horse Paris

Best time to visit Crazy Horse Paris
Image: DiscoverWalks.com

Crazy Horse Paris is a famous cabaret show in Paris, France.

It is known for its sensual and artistic performances that combine music, dance, and striking visual effects.

The show features a troupe of talented female dancers, known as the Crazy Girls, who perform choreographed routines wearing elaborate costumes and captivating lighting designs.

Rodin Museum Paris

Rodin Museum Paris
Image: Musee-Rodin.fr

The Rodin Museum, located in Paris, France, is a renowned art museum dedicated to the works of the acclaimed French sculptor Auguste Rodin. 

The museum is housed in the beautiful Hôtel Biron, an elegant 18th-century mansion surrounded by a charming garden.

The museum boasts an extensive collection of Rodin’s sculptures, drawings, and other artworks.

Chocolate Museum Paris

Chocolate Museum Paris
Image: Museeduchocolat.fr

The Chocolate Museum in Paris, situated in the Boulevard area, showcases a unique collection that traces the history and development of chocolate.

Learn about the origins of chocolate-making, the ingredients utilized, and the evolution of the process throughout history.

Discover intriguing facts about how chocolate was used in the mystic rituals of ancient civilizations, as well as the decadent confections showcased in the luxurious chocolate shops of Paris.

Sea Life Aquarium Paris

Sea Life Aquarium Paris
Image: Facebook.com(SeaLifeParisValDEurope)

Sea Life Aquarium Paris, in the heart of the city, is home to over 2,000 incredible sea creatures from all corners of the world. 

It offers a variety of attractions for all visitors, including engaging animal experiences, exciting events, and a new Dive Adventure Trail.

The World Of Banksy Expo Paris

The World Of Banksy Expo Paris
Image: Museebanksy.fr

The World Of Banksy Expo Paris is an immersive, interactive, and intriguing exhibition featuring over 100+ artworks.

The name Banksy is known to probably everyone worldwide, but the real face behind the artist is still a mystery. 

We might not know this artist by face, but what must be remembered is the legacy Banksy created in street art and his outstanding experimentation with graffiti. 

Seine River Cruises

Seine river cruise in Paris
SheraleeS / Getty Images

A Seine river cruise is one of the best ways to see Paris. 

These river cruises are popular because they help you catch the city’s highlights in a short time.

The boats float along the Seine River as you marvel at the beauty of the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Notre Dame, etc., passing by.

With so many companies offering Seine River Cruises, it is impossible to decide on one without an expert’s help. 

Dinner Cruises on Seine

Dinner Cruise on Seine River
Mizu001 / Getty Images

A Seine River Dinner Cruise is the perfect way to experience Paris. 

During these dinner cruises, you see Paris and its monuments all lit up, even as you enjoy the Parisian cuisine.

A Seine River Dinner Cruise is the perfect way to experience Paris. 

Notre Dame, Paris

Notre Dame in Paris
Mmac72 / Getty Images

Notre Dame de Paris is one of the favorite tourist destinations for Catholic and non-Catholic tourists.

Tourists admire its stained glass, the towers, rose windows, steeple, and gargoyles.

However, there is more to Notre Dame Paris than just the stained glass and rose windows.

If you visit the Cathedral, you must climb Notre Dame’s tower and enjoy Paris’s fantastic views.

Romance in Paris

Valentine's Day in Paris
4FR / Getty Images

There is no place better than the romantic city of Paris to fall in love or be in love. Millions come here to spend romantic time with their loved ones. Find out what’s so special about being with your Valentine in Paris.

Things to do with kids

Kid friendly activities in Paris
Image: Jaspe

Paris is perfect for families with children. The French capital attracts more than 80 million tourists every year, and more than half of them come with toddlers, pre-teens, and teenagers.

Wine tastings in Paris

A lady wine tasting in Paris
Image: O-chateau.com

A wine tasting tour in Paris takes you to a picturesque setting where you can drink vintage wines. You will be able to master wine tasting while also learning about the history of the neighborhood. 

Parents may enjoy wine tasting and vistas without watching their children while they sip grape juice and have fun exploring the open spaces.

# Champagne tours in Paris
# Paris Dinner and a Show
# Cooking classes in Paris

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This article was researched & written by

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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