Paris Travel Guide

All eyes will be on the City of Light this summer as it prepares to host the 2024 Olympics, exactly 100 years since it last did so. As millions of spectators gather to watch around 10,500 athletes perform at 35 venues between July 26 and August 11, followed by more at the Paralympics, expect the atmosphere to be electric and the crowds to be massive. If you haven’t managed to bag those all-important event tickets, there will be plenty of opportunities to watch the action for free, and if you’re there for the sights, top venues like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Catacombs aren’t going anywhere. Here are the best things to do in Paris during the Summer Olympics.

Whether it’s your first or your fifth trip to Paris, you will want to get the most out of your vacation by visiting as many of the city’s historical, cultural and must-see attractions and sights as you can. I thoroughly recommend picking up a Paris Museum Pass to give yourself maximum flexibility in your sightseeing. The Museum Pass allows you to skip the line at most museums, which saves valuable time and it makes it easy to slip a few more things into your itinerary if you find yourself with some downtime. Before activating your museum pass, make sure the sights you want to see are open.

With its half-timbered houses, beautiful canals, and vibrant colors, Colmar looks like a city straight out of a fairytale. It's one of France's most charming destinations and one that's easy to visit on a day trip from Paris. It takes around 5-7 hours to drive from Paris, but a train from Gare de l’Est will get you there in under 2.5 hours.

There is nothing as exciting as visiting Paris for the first time. From its impressive landmarks to the stunning cobblestone streets, this is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

However, as a first-time visitor to Paris, narrowing down the list of sights and attractions can be pretty challenging.

To help you decide and get a good idea of the city, here are my recommendations of the best things to do in Paris for first-time visitors.

Paris is a bucket list destination for many people, teens included, and there’s no shortage of sights and attractions that will appeal to the whole family. When traveling to Paris with teens, the key to a successful trip is to offer a mix of unique and fun activities that are Insta-worthy, paired with plenty of downtime to share their trip with friends back home and chances for them to do their own thing.

The real magic of Paris is at night, once the sun goes down and the famous city lights start to glimmer.

The Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay: these two museums frequently top must-do lists for anyone heading to Paris. But, if you want to balance gallery-hopping with shopping on the Champs-Élysées and sipping wine by the banks of the Seine, you might not have time for both. So, which one should you choose? Read on to decide.

Paris is the perfect romantic getaway, naturellement. But the French capital is more than just a destination for lovebirds. With its rich history and culture, the city is a must-see destination for people all over the world. Here are 10 things you might not know about the City of Love.

The Place of Versailles is one of the world's most impressive palaces and a top attraction when visiting Paris. Each area of the palace is beautifully designed, from the spectacular Royal Apartments to the famous Hall of Mirrors to the landscaped gardens with intricate pathways and gorgeous fountains.

What’s the first thing you think of when you think of Paris? Probably the Eiffel Tower. In a city filled with iconic sites, this attraction might be the most famous of all. Read these facts to learn more about the history of this world-renowned landmark.

Paris, France is a bucket list destination for many travelers around the world. Although it would take days and weeks to explore all of Paris’s quaint alleyways, terraced restaurants, and world-famous museums and monuments, there’s plenty you can see with only a full day to pack in a Paris itinerary. So if your next trip to Paris is a day trip or a long layover, here are some ideas on how to spend 1 day in Paris.

When was the last time you visited the Louvre? Be honest, now. It’s likely been a while. And — given it’s said it would take around 100 days discovering all its pieces — we wager there are dozens of works you’re yet to discover.

The Eiffel Tower is an architectural masterpiece that has become a symbol of Paris recognized around the world. Since its construction in the late 19th century, the Eiffel Tower has delighted visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the City of Light.

Ah, Paris. The “City of Love”, the “City of Light”, the “fashion capital of the world”. From the world’s most visited museum to the sparkling Eiffel Tower, glamorous department stores to fascinating underground catacombs, there’s a seemingly endless list of things to do in Paris. Pick your favorites from this list, and return again (and again) to see it all. 

Every year, millions of people visit Paris for its immense artistic and cultural heritage and discover the myriad of unmissable places that make Paris suitable for any type of visitor. To experience Paris the right way take at least 5 days to explore and immerse yourself in Parisian life.

Paris is indeed a city of dreams, but France has so much more to offer than Paris. This guide ventures outside France’s capital to explore some of the country’s less visited but equally stunning destinations — from the wild wetlands of the Camargue to the romantic hilltop villages of the Luberon.

Explore the Latin Quarter, one of Paris’ best neighborhoods, filled with medieval charm, rich intellectual history, and historical landmarks. As you wander through the winding streets, discover the neighborhood’s unique merging of lively street life and academic tradition.

Is there anywhere as mythical and magical as the Palace of Versailles? When it comes to over-the-top luxury, this 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site 10 miles from Paris leaves most historical French monuments in the dust.

Ahh Paris, you really know how to enchant and mesmerize. Paris is not only the City of Love, it’s also known for its culture, cafes, architecture, fashion, and gastronomy. I’ve been to Paris a few times, but it’s a magical city that invites you to come back as much as possible. And every time you visit, you will discover something new.

Known as the “City of Love,” Paris is the perfect place to spend your honeymoon. Get ready to be seduced by its architecture, historic palaces, and monuments. Taste its world-renowned gastronomy, and make the most of its charm and uniquely romantic atmosphere. It’s the best place in the world to fall in love with your partner all over again. 

Le Marais and the 2nd, 3rd, and 10th Arrondissement have a lot to offer foodies, art lovers, and shoppers alike. 

Paris is the poster child for European city breaks: a cosmopolitan jungle full of historic emblems and romantic scenery. A place to party with friends, fall in love, or find yourself as a solo traveler. And the real magic of Paris is that you can have a taste of the travel experience you’re craving in just a few days. In this 3-day Paris itinerary, you’ll discover how to spend the perfect weekend in the “City of Light”.  

Paris is always a good idea, and with 30 to 40 million visitors drawn to its enchanting streets each year, it’s clear everyone agrees. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower to local Paris neighborhoods bursting with art and flavor, there’s an abundance of fun things to do in Paris.

Historic landmarks in Paris continue to attract visitors worldwide, making France's capital the most-visited city on the planet. There are so many things to do in Paris, like visit lavish palaces, Gothic cathedrals, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower — France's iconic national symbol.

It might be chilly, but there’s plenty to get excited about when visiting Paris in the colder months. The summer crowds have gone, and the longer nights mean the City of Light has all the more time to shine — and we’re not only talking about the dazzling Christmas lights and sparkling Eiffel Tower.

Seine river cruises are popular among tourists vacationing in Paris, and it isn’t unknown for locals to join one on a special occasion. They give you a fresh perspective and unique vantage point to take in all of the beautiful sights in this breathtaking city. 

Paris is one of the most popular and romantic destinations in the world for couples. Spend your days marveling at its Renaissance architecture, dining at some of the best restaurants on the planet, visiting world-famous museums, and, of course, gazing up at the iconic Eiffel Tower.

Paris is always a good idea! So good that I visit almost every year, giving me plenty of tips, experiences and ideas I can share with you.

Widely known as the City of Love, even an aimless wander around an enchanting Parisian neighborhood is bound to be filled with an air of romance. Whether you’re looking for anniversary or date ideas or just special moments you can experience together, this roundup of the most romantic couple’s activities in Paris has you covered. From a kiss at the top of the Eiffel Tower to an exciting night of dinner and dancing in the Moulin Rouge, this selection of love-filled experiences will ensure Paris works its inimitable charm.

I’m Hannah, co-founder of That Adventurer, an outdoor adventure travel blog. From vanlife to hiking, mountain biking, skiing and other outdoor adventures, That Adventurer shows you the best places to get off the beaten path and experience natural beauty wherever you’re travelling. Find out more

Paris is full of museums, beautiful architecture, cute neighbourhoods, and amazing sights. If you’ve visited Paris before, you’ve likely seen the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, gone up the Eiffel Tower, and cruised the Seine.

But one of the best things about Paris is that no matter how many times you’ve been, you’ll always find something new to discover, be it a little-known park or even more delicious pastries. Looking for some ideas for your list of hidden things to do in Paris? Here are a few of our favorites.

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Wander Rue Crémieux

Carol Perehudoff is an award-winning luxury travel blogger at Wandering Carol’s Seeking Elsewhere website. Find out more

From regal palaces and breathtaking art to world-famous war memorials, Paris is a city of many layers, and exploring its past is a fantastic way to experience the capital’s rich dimensions. 

While it’s hard to narrow it down, here are 9 of the best historical things to do in Paris. 

Top tip: If you’re looking to save money and time, many of these attractions are included in a Paris Museum pass, which gives you access to more than 60 top sights.

Between art museums and culinary delights, you're unlikely to run out of things to do in Paris — but don't forget to take time to soak up the city itself. Many of the most famous buildings have rooftops or observation decks with stunning panoramas of iconic Parisian sights, including the Eiffel Tower. You can even take in the city's landmarks on a Seine river cruise or from one of its parks.

Michele Frolla is the ‘guide’ behind The Intrepid Guide, a travel and language learning site offering detailed destination guides and online language courses that use her unique 80/20 method. Find out more

Paris has been an itinerary-topping destination for generations of travelers. But the glittering City of Light can be expensive, especially if you're lured by the charming boutique hotels and famous fine-dining restaurants.  

With a little inside knowledge, it’s possible to save a few euros without skipping the best of this timeless city. To give you a helping hand, I’ve gathered 12 affordable things to do in Paris. I’ve included something for every interest, from great experiences that won’t cost you a penny to a handful of city gems worth every dime.    

Enjoy stunning views from the Sacré-Coeur Basilica

Paris is second to none when it comes to the best and biggest artwork on Earth. There are so many things to do in Paris and even more things to see. The thousands of spectacular works at the Louvre, history lessons at the Museum of Art and History of Judaism, and signature works of the Picasso Museum provide a well-rounded experience for everyone from the everyday tourist to the art connoisseur.

President Pompidou was not only an art lover, but a firm believer that art is for everyone. That art is ageless. So it’s no wonder that his vision of a center for art and culture in France’s capital houses one of the most extensive collections in the world.

Architecture heaven

Begun in 1972 and completed in 1977, sadly after the president’s death, the Centre Pompidou is an institution of modern culture. Iconic for its exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, it’s also an architectural masterpiece in its own right: its colorful structure proudly dominates the Parisien panorama. Climb the caterpillar, the huge mechanical escalator scaling the side of the building, and look out over major monuments of the city. Quelle vue magnifique! 

The building was designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers to be a living organism, a heart connected by monumental arteries. Bold primary colors breathe life. Located in the Beaubourg plateau in the 4th arrondissement, the venue lies in one of the oldest quarters of the city: past and present culture is connected in the hearts and minds of the public.

With a rich culture and history, Paris is the perfect destination for the solo traveler. With countless museums, sprawling gardens, a thriving food scene, charming neighborhoods, and many famous landmarks and attractions to discover in Paris, visiting the French capital on your own is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in Parisian culture.

There are few cities as Instagrammable as Paris. From the banks of the Seine and cute city squares to the magnificent Arc de Triomphe and glittering Eiffel Tower, the city is packed with picturesque, grid-worthy locations. But where are the best places in Paris to get the perfect photo?

Some of our favorite travel creators have shared their go-to spots for the best shots of the French capital. Of course, the Eiffel Tower is in there, but there are plenty of less-popular spots and hidden gems that are just as photogenic. And because the best Instagram posts are the ones you haven’t seen a thousand times before, they’ve also shared their tips on snapping the perfect picture. Don’t worry about finding them — there’s a Google Maps link to lead you to each one.
Here’s where to find Paris’ most Instagrammable spots.

What's are your top travel tips for visiting Paris?

1. Plan your itinerary carefully. You won't be able to visit all the places you want to see in Paris because there's so much to do. So prioritize must-sees.
2. Paris has a very convenient metro system, which is much cheaper and more efficient than taking taxis. Embrace it when walking isn't an option.
3. While many Parisians speak good English, learning a few basic French phrases in French will go a long way.
4. Indulge in the local cuisine. Paris is food heaven with bustling night markets, diverse cuisines, cozy bistros, and an up-and-coming street food scene.

What should I do on my first trip?

We love strolling along the Champs-Élysées, window shopping at the designer stores, taking in the grand architecture, and people-watching at one of the (usually pretty expensive) cafes. You'll get one of the best views of Paris at the top of the Champs-Élysées by climbing the Arc de Triomphe.

What are some hidden gems to see in Paris?

Tucked away among the hilly streets of the Montmartre neighborhood, the Vignes du Clos Montmartre is a tiny vineyard that produces 27 varieties of wine grapes. It's a beautiful hidden gem in Paris that you can visit on a guided tour during the annual grape harvest party. And art lovers should check out 59 Rivoli, a former artist squat that was legalized in 2006 and became one of the city's coolest gallery spaces.

From its beautiful architecture to its enchanting culture, visiting Paris offers a chance to explore one of the world’s most romantic cities. Of course, the city has more than enough to keep any traveler entertained. Art enthusiasts will rejoice over the many museums that they can access. People who want to sit back and relax can enjoy the many scenic gardens. For those who love an incredible view, the City of Light is particularly fitting. Regardless of what you’re after, you’re sure to find something incredible to do on our list of the top attractions in Paris.

Montparnasse, bienvenu

Ahh, Paris. The global capital of chic is a must-visit destination. Go for the romantic boulevards, the world-class galleries, the gourmet food, and the fascinating history. But if you can’t visit this stunning city in person just now, never fear. You can live la vie en rose in your living room, when you go on our virtual tour of Paris.

Day 1

Embark on a weekend getaway and discover the rich landscapes, cuisines, history, and culture France has to offer beyond its capital. You can immerse yourself in the fairytale allure of Strasbourg or marvel at the imposing châteaux of the Loire Valley. Savor world-renowned wines in Bordeaux and sip on the finest champagnes in the Champagne region. Discover the essence of French cuisine in Lyon or relish the breathtaking lake and mountain views in Annacey. Whether you are looking for a tranquil escape or want to explore another vibrant city, you’ll find it in this guide to 12 of the best weekend getaways from Paris.

Each neighborhood in Paris is brimming with culture, history, and iconic landmarks. If you can’t visit them all, exploring the five in this list will enlighten you on what gives the city its eternal allure.

When it rains in Paris, there’s no reason to be trapped in your hotel room; there are plenty of activities that let you uncover the charm of the city while staying dry. Brighten up your day by exploring the artistic treasures at the Louvre Museum, the works of impressionist masters at Musée d'Orsay, and the Centre Pompidou’s cutting-edge modern and contemporary art. Experience the ethereal beauty of Sainte-Chapelle, the tranquility of the Panthéon, and the grandeur of Palais Garnier. Stroll through the charming covered passages and hunt for rare novels in cozy bookstores. Master the art of French cuisine at a cooking class, or if you'd rather, let someone else do the cooking on a dinner cruise along the Seine. Don’t let the rain disrupt your trip; here are 12 things to do in Paris when it gets wet.

As the high temperatures drop and summer crowds disperse, Paris transforms for the fall season, with all the romance, history, and culture it’s famous for even more appealing against a backdrop of stunning autumnal hues. Discover it all with the help of this guide to Paris in the fall.

Embark on an enchanting journey through 9,000 years of history and culture when you visit the impressive Louvre Museum in the heart of Paris. Since opening the former royal collection to the public following the French Revolution, the Louvre Museum has grown to become the largest art museum in the world, with an impressive collection that you can easily lose yourself in.

In spring, Paris bursts with colors and fun activities as its seasonal calendar kicks back into gear. The city is a botanical work of art, from the elegant Luxembourg Garden to cherry blossoms at the Eiffel Tower and Parc de Sceaux.

From bustling neighborhoods to stunning parks, cemeteries, and museums, Paris is full of free attractions and activities that let you explore the city’s history, culture, and charm.

Journey beneath the bustling streets of Paris into the Catacombs, an underground labyrinth of tunnels steeped in history. Be engulfed by the eerie atmosphere of the former limestone quarries, which now hold the remains of over six million Parisians.

Montmartre, Paris, is a neighborhood renowned for its artistic and bohemian charm. Having been the muse for legendary artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, Montmartre has a rich artistic history and offers you a glimpse into an idyllic Parisian neighborhood.

The City of Lights isn’t just about the Eiffel Tower or the Arc de Triomphe — though you’ll certainly want to have the most Instagrammable places in Paris on your travel list, too. If you’re looking for things to do in Paris beyond sightseeing, dive into the city’s famous museums, from icons like the Louvre to quirky spots like the Grevin Wax Museum.

Whether you want to learn about the city’s war history at the Army Museum or explore the fun world of scents at the Musée du Parfum, the best museums in Paris promise an essential glimpse into Parisian history, art, and culture.