Paris Attractions: 20 places to include in your itinerary

This list features the top 20 incredible attractions in Paris that are essential to visit for a comprehensive experience in the City of Light.

The Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe are among Paris’s most renowned landmarks, symbolizing France and the City of Light. Nevertheless, Paris offers much more than just these three iconic features of its scenery.

Text: In the most renowned destination in the country, there are numerous monuments, museums, historical sites, remarkable architectural structures, and delightful spots waiting to be explored. Our goal in writing this text is to assist you in ensuring that you do not overlook any significant attractions and to create the ideal itinerary for your visit to Paris, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip to the French capital.

Continue reading to discover more about the primary excursions in Paris. 😉

In this article, you will find:

• Top attractions in Paris
• Museums in Paris
• Tours in Paris
• Things to do in Paris
• Places to stay in Paris
• See more tips from Paris
• Safe trip to Paris
• Mobile Chip Paris
• Cheap flights to Paris
• Car rental in Paris
• Frequently Asked Questions:

Best sights in Paris

The sights of Paris are all over the city and please all the public! There are museums, parks and historical buildings that can’t get out of the road. So see the following list of tours in Paris and buy tickets in advance to enjoy everything during your stay in the City of Light!

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the most famous tourist attraction in Paris, known worldwide for its iconic silhouette towering 300 meters high in the city center. With over six million visitors annually, the monument is consistently crowded, especially during the summer when tourist numbers peak. To avoid the crowds, it’s advisable to visit during off-peak times if traveling to Paris during this season.

Getting to the top of the Eiffel Tower is one of the main attractions in the city, especially for those seeking to watch the sunset in Paris. Having a panoramic view of the destination from above is a unique experience. The tower is divided into three levels, and the most disputed medium to climb them is the elevator (always with queues). However, if you are in hand, you can go through the stairs to the second level – it is over 1,500 steps and from there you should take an elevator to the highest point.

The two options are paid, but going by stairs is cheaper and faster! And, after meeting the monument inside, enjoy to have a picnic in the Trocadéro Garden, around the tower, if the weather is conducive.

Book your ticket to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower.

Louvre Museum

Another important place among the main sights of Paris is the Louvre Museum, which in addition to being a significant landmark of the city of Paris, is the largest art museum in the world. The building was officially inaugurated as a museum in 1793 during the French Revolution. There are over 30,000 pieces in the collection, coming from various corners of the world and from the most varied times in the history of humanity.

There you will find some works such as the Monalisa of Leonardo da Vinci, the Venus of Milo, of Alexander of Antioch, and the famous crystal pyramid, symbol of the museum and captive figure in most photos of those visiting the site. It is possible to guarantee free entry on the first Friday of the month, from 18h (except July and August), or still choose to buy the advance tickets in Civitatis for € 81 and ensure a guided tour in Portuguese!

Secure your spot for a guided tour including admission to the Louvre Museum ahead of time.

Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées, the main avenue of Paris, is in the eighth arrondissement of the city. It is almost 2 km of extension with many luxury shops, some fast fashion, charming restaurants – that translate the entire romantic atmosphere of Paris – in addition to bars and cinemas.

The boulevard stretches from Charles de Gaulle Square, where the Arc de Triomphe stands, to Concordia Square, also known as Place de la Concorde. You can reach this area by metro through stations such as Champs-Elysées – Clemenceau (lines 1 and 13), Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1 and 9), George V (line 1), or Charles de Gaulle-Étoile station (lines 1, 2, and 6).

Reserve your complimentary tour of the Champs-Elysées.

Arc de Triomphe

In 1836, amid the Napoleonic Age, the Arc de Triomphe was inaugurated in Paris. The reason for the construction was to exalt Napoleon Bonaparte for territorial expansion. In the monument there are inscriptions of the names of battles and military personnel who participated in the expeditions commanded by the emperor.

Within the Arch there is a Museum on the construction of the tourist point and a 1921 Monument that is called Mausoleum of the Unknown Soldier, a tribute to the French military who died in World War I and did not have their recognized identities. The entrance to the terrace of the Arc de Triomphe, which is 50 meters high, costs, on average, € 12. The monument is located in Charles de Gaulle Square, close to the Champs Elysées avenue.

Book your Arc de Triomphe ticket in advance.

River Seine

The Rio Sena banha Paris, flows into the Atlantic Ocean and has an extension of about 775 Km. It has more than 3 bridges, including the Pont Neuf, Pont des Arts and Pont Alexander III. Walking on the banks of the river is obligatory activity for those in the French capital. The river is of a subtle beauty and the romantic climate of this city region adds a delicious atmosphere to the tour.

If you have an interest in more than just a walk to get to know the Seine, you can also take boat or boat trips in the river, with parties, dinners and a multitude of options to choose from. Or, still, you can combine a Seine cruise with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, ideal for couples travelling honeymoon by Paris.

Book your boat trip through the Seine.

Opera Garnier

Even those who are not a fan of the Phantom of the Opera need to agree that the imposing monument breathes mystery and beauties from the imposing facade to the carefully elaborate details of the interior. The Opera Garnier is one of the most beautiful spots in the City of Light, being the stage of historical performances and secret passages that feed the myth of the ghost until today.

Book your Garnier Opera ticket now and discover more details of this must-see place.

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is located very close to Paris, so it is very quiet to organize a guided tour with included tickets to avoid the queues always present in the attraction. It is worth getting to know the place that was very luxury stage and excesses, features also present in impacting architecture and rebusted decoration. The trip from Paris lasts about 45 minutes.

Book your tour of Versailles Palace.

Luxembourg Garden

The Luxembourg Gardens are characterized by more than 200 thousand m2 of flowers, statues, fountains and the purest peace.

Paris has many gardens, but this is one of the most beautiful. The site, which is now maintained by the prefecture of the French capital, began to be built by the command of Queen Mary of Medici (second wife of King Henry IV), in the seventeenth century. Then it was years of increments and expansion of the green areas that today complete the place.

The coolest thing is that the entrance is for free and the ride is very democratic, ideal for all, including children (they will love the puppet theater from there). The space has tennis courts, basketball and even shells. It is a good request for a fun day, full of activities.

Operating hours vary depending on the seasons, (as with most of Paris’s sights). It usually opens at 8am and closes at 17h, but in summer (July and August), it is open until 21h. To get there you can take the metro line 12 and stop at Notre Dame des Champs station.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Unfortunately, Notre-Dame Cathedral suffered a devastating fire in April 2019, but after full reform it opened again to the public in December 2024. The building, dating from the 12th century, is one of the most relevant attractions in Paris, and you can enter the liturgy for free. However, locations such as towers and crypts require entry that can be purchased from the official website.

Book your visit to Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie

Also located in the Île de la Cité, Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie are essential tours during the stay in the City of Light. Sainte-Chapelle has a collection of sacred art and colorful stained glass windows that illuminate Gothic construction. Conciergerie is where the Palace of Justice works today, but during the visit it is possible to know the cell of Marie Antoinette, dark underground dungeons and the Clock Tower. The combined ticket for the two monuments costs from € 20 and guarantees even a guide in French during the tour of Conciergerie.

Buy your ticket to Sainte-Chapelle and Conciergerie at the best price.

Montmartre

Located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, the district of Montmartre is an indispensable visit to travelers who enjoy exploring the city by walking through the streets and observing the movement. It is also a great choice where to stay in Paris if you seek an alternative to the intense movement of the center. In addition to numerous lodges, good restaurants and a busy nightlife in the area of Lamarck, the neighborhood houses two important sights of Paris: the Sacre Coeur Basilica and the Moulin Rouge.

Book your free tour of Montmartre to discover the region.

Basilica of Sacré Coeur

The Sacré-Coeur, also known as the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, provides a stunning panoramic view of the city of Paris that some believe surpasses the beauty of the Eiffel Tower. The church’s elevated position, standing 130 meters above sea level, is what contributes to this unique and breathtaking landscape.

The Basilica of Sacré Coeur works every day from 6:00 to 10:30. To reach the Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, where the basilica is situated, it is only to go down at Jules Joffrin station or Pigalle metro station and take the Montmartrobus (which gives access to the tourist point), or then use the lines 30, 31, 80 and 85 of the circular bus and stop well at the beginning of the hill.

Reserve your guided tour of Sacré Coeur.

Moulin Rouge

The world’s most renowned cabaret, established in 1889, has earned a reputation for being a hub of burlesque entertainment and lively parties in Paris. Over the years, numerous events and performances have been hosted at the Moulin Rouge, drawing in a variety of artists and cementing its fame.

Today, visitors can still enjoy cancan festivals and musical shows at the concert venue located on Boulevard Clichy. Many tourists are drawn to the famous Moulin Rouge to take photos next to its iconic red windmill, even if they do not attend a performance.

Book your Moulin Rouge tickets in advance.

Disneyland Paris is a theme park located in France that is part of the Disney franchise.

One of the top attractions in Paris for families with kids is Eurodisney. It consists of two main areas: Disneyland Park, featuring beloved Disney characters, and Walt Disney Studios Park, offering more adult-oriented entertainment. You can either book a tour of Disneyland Paris or simply purchase park tickets, starting at €56 for one park or €81 for both.

Reserve your Disneyland Paris tour with excellent affordability.

Department store Gallery Lafayette

Located near the Opéra Garnier, Galeries Lafayette is a popular shopping destination in Paris with another branch situated on the Champs-Elysées. To visit the flagship store, head to the 9th arrondissement to discover over 3,000 brands spread across the entire block. Moreover, there is a complimentary observation deck at the top that offers a stunning view of the city. You have the option to join a guided tour (available in English or French) or explore the store independently.

Reserve a guided tour of the Lafayette Gallery.

Paris Catacombs

The renowned Catacombs offer visitors the opportunity to delve into the city’s depths along pathways lined with the remains of numerous Parisians. Spanning 1.5 km, the tunnels are uneven, so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes for the excursion. Tickets for the catacombs are highly sought after and priced at €29, therefore it is recommended to purchase them ahead of time.

Purchase tickets for the Paris catacombs at the most competitive price.

Père-Lachaise Cemetery – a famous cemetery located in Paris.

The Père-Lachaise cemetery is widely renowned as one of the most famous cemeteries globally. It is well-known for being the final resting place of notable figures such as writers Oscar Wilde, Marcel Proust, and Honoré de Balzac, singers Édith Piaf and Jim Morrison, composer Chopin, and activist Laura Marx. The site attracts numerous visitors daily who come to pay their respects to these famous individuals. Operating hours are from 9am to 6pm every day, and the cemetery is located in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, on Boulevard de Ménilmontant.

Secure your reservation for a guided visit of the Père Lachaise graveyard.

Les Halles – The modern commercial center of Paris, known for its shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

As we discussed, in order to truly understand Paris and experience the city’s lifestyle and culture, you must visit and explore by taking a leisurely walk to observe everything. An ideal area to spend a day and engage in this exploration is Les Halles.

The neighborhood originated as a street market during the 12th century, and it evolved into a sizable shopping center, leading to the expansion of various activities in the area.

Les Halles is a bustling area with numerous shops, malls, and offices. It also features various Parisian landmarks including the Centre Pompidou, West Field Forum des Halles, Fountain Stravinsky, and the Tower of Saint Jacques.

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Constructed in 1863, Le Carreau du Temple, originally a covered market, now serves as a cultural hub hosting various musical performances, theater shows, and exhibitions that are accessible to the public. The venue is open daily except for Sundays, from 9 am to 9 pm (closing at 7 pm on Saturdays). It is recommended to regularly check the market’s official website for information on upcoming events.

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This charming location comes highly recommended for a visit. The Palais de Tokyo is a contemporary art venue that showcases a variety of artistic mediums such as painting, fashion, sculpture, drawing, dance, cinema, and literature through unique exhibitions. What sets this place apart is its focus on exploring the individuality of the senses and interpreting the essence of art. It is an ideal destination for art enthusiasts.

The cultural center is available for visits daily, except on Tuesdays, from noon until midnight. The regular entrance fee is €12, with discounts available for students. Located in the sixteenth district of Paris, on Avenue President-Wilson, the center can be easily reached by taking the metro to Alma Marceau station to access the Palais de Tokyo.

The museums located in Paris

The museums in Paris are major draws for visitors to the City of Light. In addition to the Louvre, there are numerous institutions showcasing sculptures and artworks from various historical eras. With over 150 museums to choose from, we suggest selecting some of the key ones to visit during your trip.

Those who have an interest in history can take a tour of the Palace of Versailles to learn about royalty. At the Pantheon, visitors can explore detailed information about the French Revolution and view artworks depicting religious scenes.

The Orsay Museum is one of Paris’ most renowned attractions, featuring art from Impressionist and post-Impressionist painters like Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Manet, Delacroix, and Cézanne. For more impressionist art, a visit to the l’Orangerie Museum to see the large Water Lilies collection is also recommended.

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Exploring Paris through guided tours

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Activities in Paris

Text: With the abundance of tips and recommendations on things to do in Paris, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions and places to see. It’s crucial to narrow down the focus of your trip and determine your budget for activities.

For instance, families with children have the option to explore Disneyland Paris, visit the zoo, the Garden of Plants, and the Garden of Acclimatization.

Anyone looking to save money can opt for complimentary activities such as strolling through the Champs de Mars, taking photos near Paris landmarks, and exploring the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Additionally, you can enjoy picnics in parks and join free tours of Paris or Montmartre.

Some enjoyable evening activities to consider are a night bus tour, a Seine river cruise with a fancy dinner, a classical music concert at Madeleine, or a meal at the famous Moulin Rouge.

Now, when it’s raining, it’s a good time to explore indoor attractions like museums, the Lafayette Gallery, or a variety of other activities. Consider trying a wine and cheese tasting, visiting a perfume shop, or stopping by a traditional French bakery.

View the available transportation choices at the destination, featuring competitive prices and advantages.

Accommodation options in Paris

Do you lack the time to search for accommodations in Paris? To simplify your search, we have compiled a list of the top-rated lodging options across different categories. Explore the options that best suit your needs and find more recommendations in our posts on the top hotels, aparthotels, Airbnb listings, hostels, and bed & breakfasts in Paris.

Discover all lodging options in Paris at the most competitive rates.

Explore additional advice from Paris.

The tips are not finished yet! Below, we provide a list of detailed posts to assist you in organizing your trip.

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Have a secure journey to Paris.

Text: To visit Paris, it is necessary to have a secure journey, as part of the Schengen Treaty, which mandates travelers to have medical insurance covering at least €30,000. Apart from being compulsory, insurance can also help make your trip more seamless. Take advantage of our special discount code, Promo Insurance, for pricing details.

Paris Mobile Chip – a chip designed for use in mobile devices

How about staying connected to the internet throughout your entire season in Paris? With the mobile chip for Paris from America Chip, this is now achievable at great prices that won’t break the bank. Explore our offers and secure internet access to use freely in Paris. Be sure to check out our America Chip discount coupon for even more savings. – VIEW PRICES

Inexpensive airfare to Paris

Would you like to secure a ticket to Paris at highly competitive prices? We utilize the Promo Go platform to discover the most reliable flights available. Take a look at the daily offers and be sure to monitor them to save money when purchasing your plane tickets. – VIEW PRICES

Renting a car in Paris.

Did you know that you can book a car rental for Paris on the internet? By doing so, you can simply pick up your vehicle from the rental company upon arrival at your destination and continue your journey. Take advantage of our RentCars discount code and discover the best deal for you with RentCars. – VIEW PRICES

Commonly Asked Questions:

If you haven’t found the information you were looking for, take a look at the brief Q&A section addressing our readers’ most common inquiries.

Some of the top attractions in Paris that draw the most visitors include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Arc de Triomphe.

Some of the must-see attractions in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Champs-Elysées, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Opera Garnier, and the Arc de Triomphe.

The attractions in Paris are stunning and not to be missed. Tourists seeking picturesque views for photography should visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Garden, Opera Garnier, and Sacré-Coeur Basilica. Additionally, the Palace of Versailles, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral are also must-see destinations.

Some notable attractions in Paris worth visiting include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, the Opera Garnier, Sacré-Coeur Basilica, and the Palace of Versailles.

Certainly! Absolutely, there are numerous no-cost attractions to enjoy in Paris, including Lafayette Gallery, Sacré-Coeur Basilica, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Champs-Elysées. Furthermore, you can take leisurely walks through the renowned parks and cemeteries of the city or take advantage of free admission days at the museums in Paris!

Would you like to add a unique touch to your Paris sightseeing experience? Check out a compilation of lesser-known attractions to explore in the beautiful city: La Petite Ceinture, 59 Rivoli, Vignes du Clos Montmartre, Canal Saint-Martin, Rue Crémieux, Grand Mosquée de Paris, and Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.

Are you planning to visit Paris for three days? Some of the must-see attractions include the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, Montmartre, Moulin Rouge, Champs-Elysées, Arc de Triomphe, Louvre Museum, Galeries Lafayette, Opera Garnier, Luxembourg Gardens, Pantheon, Latin Quarter, Sainte-Chapelle, Conciergerie, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.