Here is a detailed list of must-see attractions for a trip to Paris, France
The Eiffel Tower The Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly the most iconic landmark in Paris and one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Standing at 1,063 feet tall, the wrought-iron lattice tower was built in 1889 for the World's Fair and offers breathtaking views of the city from its three observation decks. Visitors can take the stairs or ride the elevator to the top for panoramic vistas of Paris.
The Louvre Museum As the world's largest art museum and a historic monument, the Louvre is a must-visit destination in Paris. Home to over 380,000 objects and 35,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre's impressive collection spans 5,000 years of culture from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century. Visitors can spend days exploring the museum's vast galleries and iconic architecture.
Notre-Dame Cathedral One of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a stunning medieval Catholic cathedral located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris. Construction on the cathedral began in 1163 and was largely completed by 1345. Visitors can admire the cathedral's impressive façade, stained glass windows, and intricate stone carvings, as well as climb the towers for panoramic views of the city.
The Arc de Triomphe Situated at the center of the Place Charles de Gaulle, the Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch that stands at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the monument honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Visitors can climb to the top of the arch for stunning views of the Champs-Élysées and the Eiffel Tower.
The Champs-Élysées The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous and prestigious avenues in the world, stretching for nearly 1.2 miles from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Lined with high-end shops, cafes, and theaters, the Champs-Élysées is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and people-watching. Visitors can stroll along the tree-lined avenue, take in the lively atmosphere, and enjoy views of the Arc de Triomphe.
The Sacré-Cœur Basilica Perched atop the Montmartre hill, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is a stunning white-domed church that offers panoramic views of Paris. Constructed in the late 19th century, the basilica is known for its Romanesque-Byzantine architecture and its location in the charming Montmartre neighborhood, which is home to artists, street performers, and the iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret.
The Pantheon Originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the Pantheon is a neoclassical monument that now serves as a mausoleum for some of France's most distinguished citizens, including Voltaire, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie. Visitors can admire the Pantheon's impressive dome, explore the crypt, and learn about the history and significance of this iconic Parisian landmark.
The Musée d'Orsay Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d'Orsay is a renowned art museum that specializes in French art from the period of 1848 to 1914, including Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Visitors can see works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, Cézanne, and Van Gogh, as well as admire the museum's stunning Belle Époque architecture.
The Jardin du Luxembourg The Jardin du Luxembourg is a beautiful public garden located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. Featuring meticulously manicured lawns, fountains, and statues, the gardens offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city. Visitors can stroll through the gardens, rent a small boat to sail on the central pond, or relax on one of the park's iconic green metal chairs.
The Catacombs of Paris The Catacombs of Paris are a network of underground ossuaries that contain the remains of millions of Parisians. Visitors can descend into the eerie, labyrinthine tunnels and explore the macabre collection of skulls and bones that line the walls, providing a unique and haunting glimpse into the city's history.
The Île de la Cité The Île de la Cité is one of two natural river islands in the Seine and the historical heart of Paris. Home to iconic landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Conciergerie, the island offers a peaceful respite from the city's hustle and bustle, with charming streets, quaint cafes, and stunning views of the Seine.
The Montparnasse Tower The Montparnasse Tower is a 689-foot-tall skyscraper that offers panoramic views of Paris from its observation deck on the 56th floor. Visitors can enjoy 360-degree views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and even dine at the tower's rooftop restaurant.
The Palais Garnier The Palais Garnier is a stunning 19th-century opera house that is considered one of the most famous opera houses in the world. Visitors can admire the building's opulent, neo-Baroque architecture, explore the grand foyer and auditorium, and learn about the history and significance of this iconic Parisian landmark.
The Musée de l'Orangerie The Musée de l'Orangerie is an art museum located in the Tuileries Garden that is best known for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, including Claude Monet's famous Water Lilies murals. Visitors can marvel at the museum's serene and intimate galleries and enjoy the natural light that floods the space.
The Père Lachaise Cemetery The Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of the most famous and visited cemeteries in the world, known for its beautiful, park-like setting and the many notable figures buried there, including Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Édith Piaf. Visitors can explore the cemetery's winding paths, admire the ornate tombstones and monuments, and pay their respects to the famous individuals interred there.
Turn these ideas into a workable day
Group nearby stops in Paris before choosing accommodation. Give your main activity a generous time window, include the return journey, and keep an alternative for a change in conditions. Check access and any advance-booking requirements directly with the venue or operator.