Places to Visit in Paris – 25 Top Tourist Spots

Paris is one of the most touristic cities in the world in terms of places to visit. It is really a perfect city in all aspects. Stunning squares, historical museums, magnificent parks, stylish buildings, and Eiffel Tower will amaze you. Sometimes people are speechless to describe Paris. Because there are many fun and romantic things to do in Paris.

Things to do in Paris Watch sunset

Things to do in Paris – Watch the sunset

Paris is a completely different world with its small shops, stylish buildings, elegant people, bars, cafes, nightclubs, restaurants, and aesthetic streets. Being the heart of French tourism, Paris holds the title of the city that attracts the most tourists in the world, hosting 83 million foreign tourists in 2012.

Paris Travel Guide

There are many places to visit in Paris, which hosts approximately 30 million visitors every year. Disneyland and Eiffel Tower are one of the most visited places by tourists coming to Paris. These places are symbols of France as well.

There are many places to visit and see in Paris. It is very pleasant to walk the streets of the city, but when you consider the size of Paris, it is incredibly tiring to walk to each one. However, it is worth it.

The city has an enormous network in terms of transportation. The advanced metro and transportation system makes it easy to get around Paris even though it is crowded. You can buy Museum Pass and Paris Metro Pass for 2 or 3 days and add Disneyland to your trip.

Notre Dame Cathedral - Paris Travel Guide Blog

Notre Dame Cathedral – Paris Travel Guide Blog

Best Places to Visit In Paris

Paris is a city full of joy, therefore every little detail to be seen. Sit in a cafe or bistro and enjoy a coffee and croissants, browse the shop windows, buy a baguette from the baker’s, specially-made cheese and salted butter from the cheese shop, and have a snack in a green field, continue exploring a bit more.

Many touristic structures you should see are located by the Seine River. So you can walk along the river. You will feel the city every step you make and you breathe. So what are the best tourist spots in the beautiful capital of France?

1- Eiffel Tower

As you can easily guess, the Eiffel Tower is the first place to visit in Paris. The Eiffel Tower, with a height of 320 meters and the tallest structure in the world until 1930, is a symbol identified with Paris. The tower, designed by Gustave Eiffel for the EXPO Fair held in 1889, is located on the Champ de Mars on the banks of the Seine River.

Eiffel Tower View at Night

Eiffel Tower – View at Night

A bird’s-eye view of Paris from the Eiffel Tower, which has the opportunity to reach the summit by elevator or stairs, is a Paris travel cliche. It is an ideal place to photograph the view of Paris from above. Sunrise or sunset are the hours when you can see the most beautiful and impressive views.

Discussions about the 324-meter Eiffel Tower continue even today. Most of the people of Paris describe the building as a dagger in the heart of the city. Travelers, especially those traveling to the capital of France for the first time, enjoy the wonderful view and have romantic moments.

Being one of the most popular venues in the city, travelers wait in line for a long time while visiting the tower. To avoid this situation, be sure to buy your ticket in advance. Also, it is possible to visit the Eiffel Tower with a guide on special tours.

Eiffel Tower: Direct Access Guided Tour is one of the most popular tours, you can take a look if you wish.

2- Notre Dame Cathedral

The religious building in the Gothic architectural style was built between 1163-1334 in the area on the banks of the Seine River. This place, where the cathedral rises, was also considered sacred by the Celts and Romans.

Notre Dame Cathedral Historical Places to Visit in Paris

Notre Dame Cathedral – Historical Places to Visit in Paris

The road passing in front of the main gate of Notre Dame Cathedral is called “Kilometer Zero”. Religiously valuable objects such as the crown of thorns of Christ increase the cultural importance of the building.

As you know, there was a big fire at the cathedral in  2019. As a result of the fire disaster that resulted in the complete collapse of the roof and the collapse of the tower, the historical building was closed to visitors. According to the official statement, the cathedral will begin to welcome history buffs again after a 5-year restoration process. Therefore, until this process is completed, we have to just look at the religious structure from the outside.

Where to stay in Paris? Here are the affordoble and comfortable hotels.

3- Louvre Museum

While talking about the symbols of the city, I think it would be unfair not to mention the Louvre Museum, which is among the most important museums in the world. So visiting the Louvre Museum is one of the best things to do in Paris.

Why am I saying that? Because approximately 35 thousand works are exhibited in the cultural facility. Among these, Venus de Milo and the Marly Horses are the most famous. Also, Mona Lisa, which became famous in the 20th century is so popular.

Louvre Museum Where to see in Paris

Louvre Museum – Where to see in Paris

The purpose of the building of the museum is actually quite different from its current use. Because the historical building was first built by Philippe Auguste in 1204 for defense against Vikings. The palace, where the royal family stayed in the 14th century, took its final shape in 1934.

It takes weeks to see the entire collection at the Louvre. The museum also gets very crowded during daylight hours. For those who don’t like crowds and who are after a different ambiance, the museum is open for night visits on certain days of the month. If you don’t want to wait in a long queue you should buy an online ticket to Louvre Museum.

4- Montmartre

In my opinion, Montmartre is one of the most beautiful destinations on the list of places to visit in Paris. This tourist spot is also known as the Hill of Painters. Because the beauty and quiet atmosphere of Montmarte inspired masters such as Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Claude Monet.

Top places to visit in Paris Capital City of France Tourist destinations

Top places to visit in Paris – the Capital City of France – Tourist destinations

If you go to Montmartre during the day, I recommend you to spend time around Sacre Coeur. At night, you can walk around Moulin Rogue or Lapin Agile to have fun.

The easiest way to discover the beauties in this region is to take the Les Petits Trains de Montmartre excursion train. You can get on the train between 10.00-18.00 by paying the ticket fee of €6.5. The train departure point is in front of the “Blanche” metro stop. A tour takes between 40 and 60 minutes.

5- Sacre Coeur Basilica

Especially from the observation decks of the Eiffel, when you look towards the summit of Montmartre, you can see the enchanting Sacre Coeur Basilica.

Sacre Coeur Basilica Where to go in France

Sacre Coeur Basilica – Where to go in France

Surrounded by wide grass areas, the basilica was built between 1875-1914 in memory of those who lost their lives in the Franco-Prussian War in 1874. Inspired by Roman and Byzantine architecture, the religious building offers its visitors the privilege of seeing impressive works such as the “Great Mosaic of Christ Majesty”.

Of course, I suggest that you do not only visit the interior of the Sacre Coeur. Because if you climb the 300 steps and climb to its dome, you can enjoy the privilege of watching the city’s exquisite view. When you go down, you can prefer the grass area in front of the basilica to take a breather.

6- Champs-Élysées

I would like to talk about Champs Elysées Street, which is one of the most luxurious and glittering parts of the city. The street, which is a favorite of shopping-loving travelers, was built in 1667 under the leadership of Andre Le Notre, the gardener of Louis XIV.

You can find stores of many famous brands in Champs Elysées. In addition, as I mentioned before, if you have a large budget for your Paris holiday, you can consider staying in hotels around the street or at least eating something in restaurants. A few of Paris’ outstanding entertainment venues await you here. Check Champs-Elysee’s hotel list to stay comfortably here.

Champs Elysees Street Sunset View What to do in Paris

Champs Elysees Street Sunset View – What to do in Paris

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7- Arc de Triomphe

If you go up during your Champs Elysées ride, you can see the Arc de Triomphe. It is a kind of architectural masterpiece.

The construction of the landmark that adorns Charles de Gaulle Square was started in 1806 on the orders of Napoleon Bonaparte. However, it took 30 years to complete the process.

How to get to Arc de Triomphe?

How to get to Arc de Triomphe?

There is a monument named “The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier”. It is below the arch where you can enjoy the historical silhouette of the city from one side and look at modern Paris from the other side. This monument was built in memory of those who died during World War I.

After visiting the monument, I recommend you to go to the terrace at the top to enjoy the view. Especially at sunset, it is a pleasure to watch the view from here.

8- Disneyland

“Isn’t there any place in Paris where families with children can go to have fun?” If the question bothers you, I can give you only one answer: Disneyland Paris. Because Disneyland is one of the fun things to do in Paris.

The theme park was established in 1992. You can spend your whole day. Disneyland in Paris is the second park that opened outside the United States. So you can feel the Disney spirit much more as you wander around.

Officially known as Euro Disney Resort, it consists of two main parts. Walt Disney Studios Park is ideal for nostalgia buffs and children. Content for adults and young people with an adventurous spirit is included in the section called Disneyland Park.

Where is Paris Disneyland? It is 32 kilometers from the city center. If you are looking for easy access to the theme park, you can buy an entrance ticket online.

9- Palace of Versailles

For some travelers, Paris means the city of impressive palaces and gardens. Actually, I think this definition is quite right. You can make a good start to get to know this aspect of the city, especially by adding the Palace and Gardens of Versailles to your list of places to visit in Paris.

The palace was first built in the XIII century. It was built as a modest hunting lodge during the Louis era. XIV. During the reign of Louis XVI, it was expanded to accommodate 20 thousand people.

Palace of Versailles Château Top places to visit in Paris France

Palace of Versailles – Château – Top places to visit in Paris, France

The purpose of the expansion works was not only to create spaces that could accommodate large numbers of people. Because the palace was also desired to symbolize the power of the king. You will also like its French Baroque and Classical architecture.

Buy your full access ticket to the Palace of Versailles and the Gardens online.

10- Musée d’Orsay

In addition to its romantic atmosphere, Paris is also a city with a dazzling artistic background. So, you can get to know the treasures of the city in a much more detailed way by adding the Musée d’Orsay to your itinerary.

Musée d'Orsay Must-see museum

Musée d’Orsay – Must-see museum

The museum displays works of art produced between 1848 and 1914. Impressionist paintings constitute the most valuable collection of the museum.

While visiting Musée d’Orsay’s exhibition halls, examining the valuable works of masters such as Van Gogh, Paul Cezanne, and Manet vs Monet will impress you as much as I do. You can reserve and book your entrance ticket on the internet.

11- Panthéon – Places to Visit in Paris

If you think that the only Pantheon that can be visited in Europe is in Rome, then you have not yet met its counterpart in Paris.

Architecturally, St. Paul’s Cathedral, the building was built between 1744 and 1790 in line with the order of Louis XV. After its completion, it was dedicated to St. Genevieve.

Pantheon Historical places to visit in Paris

Pantheon – Historical places to visit in Paris

The Pantheon was used as a church in different periods. However, the reason why it is considered as one of the most important structures of the city in terms of culture is shown as hosting the tombs of the French people who are famous. Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Emile Zola and Alexander Dumas are some of these names.

Interesting information: In 1851, Leon Foucault tried an experiment to prove that the world revolves around itself. He chose the Pantheon to do this experiment.

12- Sainte-Chapelle de Paris

If you like the interior decorations of the Pantheon, Sainte Chapelle is one of the must-see places in Paris for you. Because you will like here as well.

The chapel was built by Louis IX between 1242-1248 in order to keep the holy relics. So it is a very special place. Also, this religious building depicts many important events in the Bible, including the last supper of Jesus.

How to get to Sainte-Chapelle de Paris

How to get to Sainte-Chapelle de Paris

While visiting the building, you can also see the Apostle Statues adorning the columns. There are many people visiting Sainte-Chapelle which is one of the places to visit in Paris. So to skip the line to enter, you should buy an online ticket from the GetYourGuide website. It is so safe.

13- Luxembourg Palace

One of the top things to do in Paris is to visit Luxembourg Palace. Because it has a very beautiful and peaceful garden. It will be like a break from touring the city.

The palace was built between 1615 and 1645 at the request of Henri IV’s widow. If you’ve ever been to Florence and visited the Palazzo Pitti, you can quickly spot the architectural similarities between the Luxembourg Palace and its northern Italian counterpart.

Luxembourg Palace and Garden

Luxembourg Palace and Garden

Architect Salomon de Brosse, who played the leading role in this situation, also designed the Medici Fountain, which draws attention easily while walking around the gardens.

Today, the palace is in the service of the French Senate. Therefore, it is very difficult to get around inside. Many travelers prefer to spend time in its 25-hectare gardens rather than wandering around the palace.

Those who decide in this direction, I think, acted quite logically. Because the gardens are designed in the style of Florence, as I mentioned at the beginning, are the perfect place to relax and find peace. Even the French come here when they have the opportunity to have a picnic and relieve stress.

Check Paris Hotels to stay comfortably in the capital city of France. There are many accommodation options.

14- Seine River

I suggest you add the Seine River to the list of the best places to visit in Paris. Because the river gives the opportunity to observe the cityscape from different angles. Ana also Seine River offers you a memorable time during a boat tour.

Seine River Boat tour trip

Seine River Boat tour trip

You can join the boat tours organized by three companies to visit the river. There is another opportunity to see the Ile de la Cite, which is considered to be the place where Paris was founded. You can book your Seine River tour by clicking the link.

You don’t have to take boat tours to get to know the beauties of the Seine River. If you wish, you can also walk or ride a bicycle along the riverside.

15- Palais Garnier Opera House

Paris Opera House a stunning architecture. It is an Instagrammable place for people who like to take a lot of pictures. Especially at night, there is a breathtaking view of it.

Palais Garnier Opera House Beautiful places to visit in Paris France

Palais Garnier Opera House – Beautiful places to visit in Paris France

Palais Garnier was built in 1669 on the orders of Louis XIV.  The Opera House has two main halls, the Opera Bastille and the Palais Garnier. Opera Bastille, with a capacity of 2,700 seats, was designed in a contemporary style and was put into service in 1989. Palais Garnier, which fascinates its guests with its magnificent interior decoration, is much older. The 1970-seat hall opened its doors to art lovers in 1875.

The building has a neo-baroque style. And also it hosts bronze busts of famous composers such as Mozart, Rossini, Beethoven, Spontini, Philippe Quinault, Meyerbeer, Fromental Halévy, and Daniel Auber. Buy your online ticket here.

16- Place De La Concorde

If you walk down the Champs-Elysées, towards the Tuileries Garden; You will have the opportunity to see the impressive Place de la Concorde. It is also close to the Grand Palais and Louvre Museum.

Famous architect Jacques-Ange Gabriel designed this beautiful square. The construction lasted from 1755 to 1765. There is also an obelisk and fountain in the middle of the square.

Place de la Concorde What are the best tourist spots

Place de la Concorde – What are the best tourist spots

17- The Centre Pompidou

Paris is a very satisfying city socially and culturally. The Pompidou Center, named after the former president of France, is one of the most important places to visit in Paris.

The center was built between 1971-1977.  It draws attention with its interesting industrial design. Because the center is designed by the trio of Richard Rogers, Renzo Piano, and Gianfranco Franchini.

When you go to the center, you can find the opportunity to visit the Musee National d’art Moderne. More than 60 thousand works of modern and contemporary art are exhibited here. The cultural facility also houses a library with over 2,000 resources.

If you wish, you can spend most of your time in the shops, cinemas or restaurants in the Pompidou Center. You can even watch the amazing city view from the observation terrace on the top floor.

18- Moulin Rouge – Places to Visit in Paris

When it comes to nightlife and entertainment, people are amazed by the many options in Paris. However, if you want to watch a nostalgic show, you can choose Moulin Rouge. Because you will never regret it.

Moulin Rouge Paris nightlife Fun things to do in the capital city of France

Moulin Rouge Paris nightlife – Fun things to do in the capital city of France

Moulin Rouge can be easily recognized by the windmill on its roof. It has been operating since 1889. The place was founded by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler.

Moulin Rouge, a famous cabaret meaning ‘Red Mill’, is located in Pigalle. The building welcomes many tourists with its world-famous shows, original entertainment programs, and dances and has an interesting design. Visiting this tourist destination is one of the things to do in Paris.

19- Catacombs of Paris

If you intend to visit different places after spending fun and romantic days in Paris, you can add the Catacombs to your travel list itinerary.

The story of the tombs is actually no different from that in many parts of Europe. The tombs were built because of various epidemics, especially the plague.

Catacombs of Paris Interesting places to visit in France

Catacombs of Paris – Interesting places to visit in France

The Paris Catacombs began to be used in 1785. However, the skeletons were not randomly placed in the corridors of the old quarries stretching for kilometers. Thanks to the installation method used, the place has assumed the identity of an art gallery.

If you are interested in this unusual sightseeing spot, buy your online ticket to the Catacombs. It has also cancellation options if you change your mind.

20- Montparnasse Tower

Montparnasse Tower is the pioneer of modern architecture in the city as of its opening year in 1973. The skyscraper has a height of 210 meters. It is one of the tallest structures with Tour First and the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Eiffel Tower City View Montparnasse Tower

Eiffel Tower and City View from Montparnasse Tower

Of course, its height and architectural features have brought about various discussions. Many Parisians who have adopted the traditional style, just like the Eiffel, did not embrace its existence, describing this building as a stain on the identity of the city.

However, you can ignore this situation and go to the observation terraces on the 56th and 59th floors of the Tour Montparnasse and focus on the magnificent view. The view from the observation area on the ground floor is really impressive. However, if you’re aiming to capture better shots, I suggest you go up to the 59th floor.

If you are planning a European tour, you might want to visit Krakow as well.

21- Les Invalides

Les Invalides is a very important place. Because Napoleon’s tomb is here.

The construction process of the historical building started in 1674. The official name of it is Hotel National des Invalides. By the end of the century, it had turned into a giant complex where more than 4 thousand retired soldiers lived.

Les Invalides Where to go

Les Invalides – Where to go

Eglise de Dome is the most important part of Les Invalides. As you can understand from its magnificence, in this structure are the tombs of statesmen who were at the top of the state with the title of “Napoleon”.

In addition to the church, which was built between 1677-1706, I suggest you spend time in the building called the Soldiers’ Chapel. Of course, do not forget to take a look at the impressive collection of the Musee de l’Armee beforehand.

22- Tuileries Garden

The Tuileries Garden is one of the most important areas in Paris. Because although it is located in the city center, it is really a peaceful place.

Catherine de Medici the Queen gave the order to build the garden in 1564. Beautiful Florence-style green areas here really amaze people. By the way, the garden takes its name from the palace next to it.

Jardin des Tuileries Garden Park

Jardin des Tuileries – Garden, Park

For a long time, Parisian high society gathered here for various events. However, in 1870, a big fire happened. Fortunately, as a result of great efforts, this disaster was averted and the garden survived. So Tuileries Garden is one of the top places to visit in Paris.

23- Père Lachaise Cemetery

The Catacombs of Paris really have an impressive atmosphere. But I have to admit that Pere Lachaise has a special place in the eyes of many travelers. The cemetery resembles an open-air museum with its sculptures and sarcophagi that arouse admiration for the mastery of their designs.

Père Lachaise Cemetery Places to visit in Paris

Père Lachaise Cemetery – Places to visit in Paris

Pere Lachaise Cemetery covers 44 hectares. This place was designed by Architect Alexandre Theodore in line with the order of Napoleon Bonaparte. But it was not very popular in the first days of its opening, contrary to its current popularity.

However, the relocation of the tombs of La Fontaine and Moliere made Pere Lachaise popular. Afterward, the cemetery became the eternal resting place of famous figures such as Oscar Wilde, Max Ernst, and Camille Pissaro, making the cemetery no longer an ordinary place.

24- Rodin Museum – Places to Visit in Paris

What to do in Paris? If you enjoy visiting museums full of works bearing the signatures of great masters in the cities where you are on holiday, make sure to reserve a place for the Rodin Museum in your itinerary.

The museum was established in 1916 with the efforts of Auguste Rodin. The Rodin Museum’s collection actually needs to be evaluated in two different sections. Therefore, by organizing your visit in this way, you can make it much more satisfying. The collection consists of around 6,500 sculptures and nearly 10 thousand drawings.

The other part includes various works that the artist has collected throughout his life and dated to different periods. To give more details, you can find the opportunity to closely examine 1,700 paintings, approximately 7 thousand photographs, and over 6,400 sculptures collected by Rodin at different points in the museum.

Musee Rodin Museum Places to visit in Paris

Musee Rodin (Museum) – Places to visit in Paris

I would say, do not focus too much on the exhibition halls and do not miss the magnificent works that await you in the 3-hectare garden. The most important works waiting for you in the garden of the museum:

  • The Gates of Hell
  • Balzac
  • The Thinker
  • Bourges de Calais

25- Musée de l’Orangerie

In this part of the list of places to visit in Paris, I would like to take you to an elegant building in the Tuileries Palace, where lemon and orange trees used to be grown. Because this building, which was built in 1853, has been hosting the Orangerie Museum since the second quarter of the 20th century.

The cultural facility is small compared to its counterparts elsewhere in Paris. But his collection is quite impressive. For this reason, art lovers should visit here.

Monet’s oil painting murals are the most valuable pieces of the collection. Also works by Cezanne, Renoir, Picasso, Rousseau and Matisse are amazing.

I told you about the 25 best places to visit in Paris, the capital city of France. But there are more tourist destinations to see. Here are some other must-see places in Paris below.

  • Louis Vuitton Foundation
  • Musée National Picasso-Paris
  • Hôtel de Ville
  • Pont Alexandre III
  • Galeries Lafayette
  • L’Atelier des Lumières
  • Place des Vosges
  • La Défense
  • Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
  • Pont des Arts

During your Paris trips, you might want to visit other French cities as well. So please read the places to visit in the Lyon travel guide. Also check Things to do in Munich and the city of love, Verona travel blogs.

Also, you can visit Beirut, which is called the Paris of the Middle East.

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