If you're planning a trip to Paris, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. I'll share my favorite places to go and things to do, as well as some tips on how to avoid the tourist traps.
Paris is known as the City of Love and for good reason – it’s home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. From the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral, there’s no shortage of things to see in Paris. If you’re planning a trip to the French capital, be sure to add these 25 must-see sights to your itinerary.
1. Guide to Visit the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. After all, it's one of the most famous landmarks in the world! But planning a trip to see the Eiffel Tower can be a bit daunting, especially if you've never been to Paris before.
Things to Know Before You Go
The first thing you need to know is that there is more than one way to visit the Eiffel Tower. You can take the stairs (yes, all 2,509 of them!), or you can take the elevator. If you're feeling especially adventurous, you can even zip line from the top!
If you plan on taking the stairs, keep in mind that they are only open during certain hours and that tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis. That means if you want to guarantee your spot, you'll need to get there early. If you take the elevator, on the other hand, you'll need to purchase a timed ticket in advance.
And no matter how you choose to get there, we recommend going early in the day so you can avoid crowds. Trust us, it's worth getting up early for!
Once you're at the top of the tower, soak in the incredible views of Paris and get your camera ready for some amazing photos. And don't forget to grab a souvenir from one of the many shops at ground level before you go!
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must-do for any traveler who finds themselves in Paris. But with so many different ways to visit and things to see, it can be tough to know where to start.
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2. Guide to Visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
When most people think of Paris, the first thing that comes to mind is the Eiffel Tower. While the tower is certainly an iconic sight, it's not the only thing worth seeing in the City of Love.
One of the most beautiful and moving buildings in Paris is Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris.
Walking Around Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is located on Île de la Cité, one of two natural islands in the Seine River. The easiest way to get there is by taking the metro to any of the following stops: Cité, Saint-Michel, or Maubert-Mutualité.
If you're up for a longer walk, you can also take a bus or a boat ride along the Seine. No matter how you get there, be sure to take some time to admire the bridges and architecture along the way.
How to reach the Notre Dame cathedral
There's no charge to enter Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, so feel free to explore at your own pace. As you walk around, take a moment to marvel at the building's intricate exterior sculptures and gargoyles.
Then, step inside and let your eyes adjust to the dim light. Take a Look Up! The ceiling is covered in stunning stained glass windows that tell stories from the Bible. Make your way towards the front of the cathedral and take a seat.
Even if you're not religious, there's something incredibly moving about soaking in all of this history and beauty.
Before You Leave…
Be sure to stop by one of the souvenir shops on your way out and pick up a few postcards or a guidebook about Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris. And if you have time, walk across one of the bridges to get a different perspective of this magnificent building.
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3. Guide to Visit the Louvre Museum in Paris
The Louvre Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world, and for good reason.
Located in the heart of Paris, the Louvre is home to some of the most iconic works of art in history, such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. If you're planning a trip to Paris, a visit to the Louvre is a must.
But if you've never been before, the prospect of visiting can be a little overwhelming. Here's a few tips to help you make the most of your visit.
Best Time to visit the Louvre Museum?
The best time to visit the Louvre is first thing in the morning, before it gets too crowded. The museum opens at 9 am, so aim to arrive around 8:30 am. This way, you'll avoid the lines at security and have some time to explore before the crowds really start to pour in.
What to See in the Louvre Museum?
There are over 35,000 works of art at the Louvre, so it's impossible to see everything in one visit. That's why it's important to do some research ahead of time and plan out what you'd like to see.
The museum is divided into eight sections, and each section has its own highlights. For example, if you're interested in seeing some of da Vinci's famous paintings, you'll want to head to the Sully Wing on the second floor. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
If you're not sure where to start, we recommend checking out these must-see attractions:
The Mona Lisa: One of da Vinci's most famous paintings, and arguably the most famous painting in the world. It hangs in the Denon Wing on the first floor.
The Nike of Samothrace: A sculptural masterpiece from 190 BC that depicts Nike (the Greek goddess of victory) alighting on Mount Rhodes. It's located in the Sully Wing on the second floor.
Venus de Milo: Another iconic sculpture, this one from Ancient Greece and depicting Aphrodite (the goddess of love). It can be found in Room 7 on the first floor.
A visit to the Louvre Museum is a truly unforgettable experience. By following our tips, you're sure to make the most of your time at this world-renowned institution.
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4.Visit the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris
Visitors to Paris are often awestruck by the Notre Dame Cathedral, with its iconic flying buttresses and stained glass windows. However, there is another cathedral in Paris that is just as beautiful, if not more so: the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris.
The basilica was built in the late 19th century on the highest point in Paris, Montmartre. From the outside, it is an impressive sight, with its intricate Romanesque Revival facade and two massive domes. But it is when you step inside that you truly appreciate the beauty of this cathedral.
The nave is decorated with mosaics depicting scenes from the life of Christ, and the stained glass windows are some of the most beautiful in all of Paris. The basilica also has a crypt containing the remains of several famous French Catholics, including St. Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris.
If you are looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Paris, take a walk up to Montmartre and enjoy a moment of peace and quiet in this beautiful basilica. You definitely won't be disappointed!
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5.Visit the Musée d'Orsay
In the heart of Paris, on the left bank of the Seine, lies the Musée d'Orsay. Housed in a converted railway station, this museum is devoted to French art from 1848 to 1914.
Within its walls you'll find some of the most famous paintings in the world, by artists such as Claude Monet, Auguste Rodin, and Vincent van Gogh. Here's a short history of this wonderful museum.
The Origins of the Musée d'Orsay
The story of the Musée d'Orsay begins with the Palais des Tuileries, which was built in 1564 as a residence for Catherine de Médici.
The Tuileries Palace was destroyed in 1871 during the Paris Commune, and in its place a railway station was built. This station was called the Gare du Nord, and it served as a terminus for trains coming from northern France.
In 1897, work began on a new railway station to replace the Gare du Nord. This station was designed by Victor Laloux, and it was one of the most advanced railway stations of its time.
It featured a glass-and-steel train shed with an iconic clock tower at its center. The new station was called the Gare d'Orsay, and it opened to great fanfare in 1900.
What You'll Find at the Musée d'Orsay
Today, the Musée d'Orsay is one of Paris's most popular tourist attractions. It is home to an impressive collection of art from the second half of the 19th century and early 20th century.
You'll find paintings by Impressionist masters like Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, as well as Post-Impressionist works by Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh. There are also sculptures by Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel, and furniture by Art Nouveau designer Hector Guimard. If you're interested in learning more about French art from this period, a visit to the Musée d'Orsay is an absolute must!
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6.Guide to visit the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. Was built to honor those who fought and died for France during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, and it remains an important symbol of French national pride.
If you're planning on visiting the Arc de Triomphe, here are a few things you should know:
How to reach the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. The easiest way to get there is by taking the Métro; Lines 1, 2, or 6 will all take you within a few minutes' walk of the monument.
If you're feeling energetic, you can also walk there from the Eiffel Tower; it's about a 40-minute walk along Avenue des Champs-Élysées.
Best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe
The best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe is early in the morning, before the crowds start to arrive. Alternatively, if you don't mind braving the crowds, you can go late at night when the monument is illuminated by artificial light.
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7. Take a walk on Champs-Élysées, the most famous street in Paris
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in the world. Located in the heart of Paris, this grand avenue is lined with trees, cafes, luxury shops, and historic monuments. Whether you're strolling down the street or driving down it in a coupe, a trip down the Champs-Élysées is a must-do while in the City of Love.
The History of the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées has a long and rich history. Originally built in 1667 as an extension of the Tuileries Gardens, it was not until 1789 that it became known as the "Grande Allée des Champs-Élysées." In 1828, King Charles X commissioned architect Pierre-Charles L'Enfant to redesign the street, and it was during this time that the street acquired its iconic tree-lined look.
Over the years, the Champs-Élysées has been home to many important events. It was here that Napoleon Bonaparte triumphantly marched his troops after defeating the Austrians at Austerlitz. It was also here that peace rallies were held during both World Wars. Today, it is still a popular site for political protests and celebrations.
What to See on the Champs-Élysées?
There is no shortage of things to see on the Champs-Élysées. Some of the most popular attractions include:
The Arc de Triomphe: One of Paris's most iconic monuments, this massive archway was built in honor of Napoleon's soldiers who died during battle.
Grand Palais: This large glass and metal building houses a variety of art exhibitions throughout the year. Even if you're not interested in art, it's worth going inside just to admire the architecture.
Lafayette Galleries: A department store similar to Macy's or Selfridges, Lafayette Galleries is one of Paris's most popular shopping destinations. Be sure to check out the food court on the top floor for a wide variety of mouthwatering international cuisine.
So when you're planning your trip to Paris, be sure to add this iconic street to your itinerary.
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8. A Day in the Luxembourg Gardens
With its beautifully manicured gardens, tranquil ponds, and endless rows of tree-lined paths, the Luxembourg Gardens is the perfect place to spend a leisurely day.
Located in the 6th arrondissement, the park is easily accessible by metro or bus. Here's what you can expect to find on a day trip to the Luxembourg Garden.
Luxembourg Palace
The most prominent feature of the Luxembourg Gardens is undoubtedly the Luxembourg Palace, a magnificent building that has been used for both governmental and private purposes over the centuries.
These days, the palace is home to the French Senate, and as such, it is not open to the public. However, visitors are free to walk around the beautifully landscaped gardens that surround it.
The Flowerbeds
A large part of what makes the Luxembourg Gardens so special are its numerous flowerbeds. No matter what time of year you visit, there is always something in bloom.
In the spring, tulips and daffodils provide a burst of color, while summer brings roses and lavender into full swing. If you're lucky enough to be in Paris during late September or early October, don't miss out on seeing the chrysanthemums in all their glory.
The Medici Fountain
One of the most visited spots in the park is undoubtedly the Medici Fountain. Built in 1620 at the behest of Marie de' Medici (the wife of King Henri IV), this beautiful fountain was inspired by her homeland of Italy.
The fountain contains several tiers of statues depicting Greco-Roman gods and goddesses, as well as episodes from Ovid's Metamorphoses. Even if you're not particularly interested in mythology or ancient history, it's worth taking a stroll past this fountain if only to appreciate its beauty.
For a place to relax, consider spending a few hours at the Luxembourg Gardens. With its tranquil atmosphere and plethora of things to see and do, this Parisian park is sure to please visitors of all ages.
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9. A walk Through the Tuileries Garden in Paris
One of the best ways to experience a city is by taking a leisurely walk through one of its parks or gardens.
In Paris, be sure to stop by the Tuileries Garden for a dose of greenery and fresh air in the heart of the city.
History of the Tuileries Garden
The Tuileries Garden has a long and rich history dating back to the 16th century. It was first created by Catherine de' Medici as a private garden for the Tuileries Palace, which was home to French royalty until it was destroyed in 1871 during the Franco-Prussian War.
The garden underwent a number of changes over the years before finally being opened to the public in 1667.
Nowadays, the Tuileries Garden is one of Paris's most popular tourist attractions. It's a great place for people to watch, relax, and enjoy some of the city's best views. The garden is also home to a number of sculptures and monuments, including an equestrian statue of King Louis XIV.
Things to See & Do in the Tuileries Garden
Whether you're an art lover or just looking for a place to relax, the Tuileries Garden has something for everyone. Here are some of our favorite things to see and do there:
Admire the sculptures & monuments: As we mentioned before, the Tuileries Garden is home to a number of sculptures and monuments, making it a great place for art lovers to explore.
Visit the Orangerie Museum: The Orangerie Museum is located within the Tuileries Garden and is home to works by Monet, Renoir, Cezanne, and other Impressionist masters. If you're interested in learning more about this period of art history, definitely add this museum to your list!
Grab a bite at one of the cafes: No visit to Paris would be complete without stopping for a coffee or pastry at one of its charming cafes. When you get hungry during your walk through the Tuileries Garden, be sure to duck into one of its cafes for a quick snack or drink.
Enjoy the views: Lastly, don't forget to take some time to simply enjoy the views! The Tuileries Garden offers some of Paris's best views of landmarks like the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde. Trust us - they're worth savoring!
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10. Guide to visit the Palais Garnier of Paris
The Palais Garnier was built in the 1860s to be the new home of the Paris Opera. It was designed by Charles Garnier, who won a competition to design the building. The Palais Garnier is one of the most famous examples of French Second Empire architecture. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris.
The exterior of the building is decorated with numerous statues and sculptures. The two most famous are La Diane Chasseresse, which represents Diana, goddess of the hunt, and La Pomone, which represents Pomona, goddess of fruit trees. The Palais Garnier also has a large fountain in front of it, called the Fontaine de l'Opera.
The interior of the Palais Garnier is just as impressive as the exterior. The main lobby is called the Grand escalier, or grand staircase. It is a double staircase that leads up to the Grand foyer, which is decorated with marble and has a glass ceiling. The Grand foyer is also where you will find two of the most famous features of the Palais Garnier: The chandelier and the clock.
The chandelier in the Grand foyer is 18 meters (59 feet) tall and weighs 6 tons. It is made of crystal and bronze and has been lit by electricity since 1883. The clock above the Grand staircase is also famous. It is made of bronze and porcelain and was created by Pierre-Paul Prud'hon in 1848.
The Palais Garnier also has a number of other notable features, including an auditorium that can seat 1,979 people, a ballet school, and a Museum of Decorative Arts.
The Palais Garnier is one of Paris's most iconic buildings and a must-see for any traveler to Paris. Although it no longer functions as an opera house, it remains a popular tourist destination due to its impressive exterior and interior design elements. If you are ever in Paris, be sure to take a tour of this magnificent building!
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11. Visit the Sainte-Chapelle of Paris
When visiting Paris, it's impossible to miss the Sainte-Chapelle. Perched atop a small hill in the Île de la Cité, the iconic Gothic chapel is visible from all over the city. But what's the story behind this Parisian landmark? Let's take a closer look.
Construction of the Sainte-Chapelle began in 1238 on the orders of Louis IX, who was also known as Saint Louis. The chapel was built to house precious relics of Christ, including his crown of thorns, which the king had purchased from Emperor Baldwin II for the staggering sum of 135,000 livres tournois (the equivalent of around $20 million today).
The chapel took just seven years to complete, and it was consecrated in 1248. Though it has undergone a number of renovations over the centuries, the Sainte-Chapelle retains its original 13th-century stained glass windows—a testament to the skill of the craftsmen who made them.
These windows are truly one-of-a-kind; with 1,134 scenes depicting biblical stories and other important moments in Christian history, they remain the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in existence.
In addition to its beautiful windows, the Sainte-Chapelle is also home to an impressive collection of statues and carved stone screens. The lower level of the chapel contains 14 statues depicting Old Testament prophets, while the upper level houses 28 larger-than-life statues of apostles and evangelists.
These awe-inspiring works of art make a visit to the Sainte-Chapelle a truly unforgettable experience.
The next time you're in Paris, be sure to take some time to explore the Sainte-Chapelle. With its breathtaking stained glass windows and stunning stone carvings, this Gothic chapel is like no other place on earth.
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12. Visit the Magic Kingdom: Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is a photographer's dream, with its iconic castle, scenic rides, and charming characters.
As soon as you enter the park, you're transported to a different world. The happy melodies of familiar songs fill the air and you can't help but smile as you see the joyful expressions on the faces of children of all ages.
As you make your way down Main Street, snap a few photos of the beautiful buildings and colorful window displays. Of course, no trip to Disneyland Paris would be complete without a visit to Sleeping Beauty's Castle.
Standing at over 100 feet tall, it's truly a sight to behold. Be sure to take some time to explore the castle grounds and take in all the beauty that surrounds you.
Next up is Fantasyland, where you can take a ride on It's a Small World or soar through the air on Dumbo the Flying Elephant. No matter which ride you choose, be sure to keep your camera handy to capture all the fun! After spending some time in Fantasyland, make your way over to Adventureland for a swing through the jungle on Tarzan's Treehouse or an exotic tour of Aladdin's Cave of Wonders. As you explore Adventureland, be sure to keep an eye out for hidden Mickey Mouse shapes hidden throughout the area!
As day turns to night, enjoy some dinner at one of Disneyland Paris' many restaurants before heading over to Frontierland for some fun at Big Thunder Mountain or Phantom Manor.
Be sure to stick around for the nightly fireworks show—it's truly a magical experience. End your night with a visit to one of Disneyland's famous resorts for some rest and relaxation before doing it all over again the next day!
No matter how many times you visit Disneyland Paris, there's always something new to see and do.
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13. A Night at the Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge is a world-famous cabaret in Paris. The club is known for its lavish parties, extravagant costumes, and stunning dancing. If you're looking for a night of fun and excitement while in Paris, Moulin Rouge is the place to be!
Moulin Rouge was founded in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler. The club quickly became a popular hotspot for Parisian high society. In the early years, Moulin Rouge was known for its risque shows featuring scantily-clad dancers. This reputation continued throughout the years, and Moulin Rouge became known as a place where anything goes!
The club underwent a major renovation in 2009, and it now boasts three levels of floorspace. The ground floor is home to the Grande Salle, a large auditorium where the main stage show takes place. The second floor is home to the Salon de la Lune, a smaller stage where acrobatic and dance performances take place. The third floor is home to the restaurant Le Bal du Moulin Rouge, where guests can enjoy French cuisine while watching the stage shows below.
If you're looking for a night of fun and excitement while in Paris, be sure to check out Moulin Rouge!
14. Take a tour of the Panthéon in Paris
The Panthéon is located on the left bank of the River Seine and was originally built as a church dedicated to St. Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris. However, it has since been transformed into a secular mausoleum and now houses the remains of some of France's most famous citizens, including Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Marie Curie, and Alexis de Tocqueville.
The exterior of the Panthéon is awe-inspiring and imposing. It is made from white marble and features a massive dome that dominates the skyline. The front facade is decorated with a colonnade of Corinthian columns, and there are two statues of Kings Saint Louis IX and Henri IV flanking the entrance.
Once you step inside, you'll be able to see why the Panthéon is such an iconic building. The interior is just as impressive as the exterior, with a vast central chamber that is lit by an oculus (a hole in the ceiling). There are three levels of galleries surrounding the central chamber, and each gallery is lined with neoclassical sculptures.
If you're interested in learning more about the history of the Panthéon or paying your respects to France's most famous citizens, then a visit to this landmark is a must-do during your time in Paris.
15. A Dreamy Day in Paris: A Photographic Tour of the Pont Alexandre III
They say that Paris is for lovers, and it's easy to see why. The City of Lovehas a certain je ne sais quoi that can't be found anywhere else in the world. And one of the most magical places in the city is the Pont Alexandre III.
The Pont Alexandre III is a bridge that spans the Seine River, connecting the Champs-Élysées to the Invalides. It's one of the most photographed spots in Paris, and it's easy to see why. The Pont is adorned with intricate sculptures and gilded details. It's truly a work of art!
There's no denying that the Pont Alexandre III is a stunning piece of architecture. If you're planning a trip to Paris, be sure to add the Pont Alexandre III to your list of must-see sights.
16. Visit Les Invalides in Paris
Les Invalides is a complex of buildings in Paris that serves as a hospital and nursing home for war veterans, as well as a museum and burial site for some of France's most famous soldiers and military leaders.
The site includes the Hôtel des Invalides, which was built in 1670 by King Louis XIV to house wounded soldiers, as well as the Dôme des Invalides, which is the final resting place of Napoléon Bonaparte.
The Hôtel des Invalides was commissioned by King Louis XIV in 1670 and completed in 1676. The original intention was to provide housing for disabled soldiers, but it soon became clear that the facility would need to be much larger than originally anticipated. As a result, the building was expanded several times over the next few years. By the early 18th century, it could accommodate up to 4,000 residents.
After Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo in 1815, Les Invalides was transformed into a military hospital once again. It has remained true to its original purpose ever since, even serving as a hospital for injured soldiers during both World Wars. Today, it is estimated that there are still around 1,500 veterans living at Les Invalides.
Les Invalides is much more than just a hospital or a burial ground—it's a vital part of French history. If you're interested in learning more about France's military past (or if you're just looking for something different to do on your next trip to Paris), definitely add Les Invalides to your list of must-see attractions!
17. Visit the Place de la Concorde in Paris
The Place de la Concorde is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. It was constructed in 1755 and was originally named "Place Louis XV" to honor the King of France.
However, after the French Revolution, the square was renamed "Place de la Révolution" and then "Place de la Concorde." The present name was given to the square in 1830.
The square is octagonal in shape and is adorned with fountains, sculptures, and trees. In the center of the square stands an Egyptian obelisk that was originally created for Pharaoh Ramses II. The obelisk was brought to Paris in 1833 and has become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.
Things to Do at the Place de la Concorde
There are plenty of things to do at the Place de la Concorde. Here are some of our favorites:
Take a selfie with the obelisk – This is a must for any traveler! The obelisk is truly a remarkable sight and makes for a great photo. Just be sure to watch out for tourists getting in your way!
Visit the nearby Musée des Arts Décoratifs – This museum is located just across from the Place de la Concorde and houses an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Be sure to allow yourself plenty of time to explore all three floors of this museum.
Grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes – There are plenty of cafes and restaurants surrounding the square, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.
With its rich history and abundance of things to do, there is no better way to spend a day in Paris!
18. The Jardin des plantes de Paris – A Breathtaking Oasis in the City of Love
When most people think of Paris, they picture the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and other iconic landmarks. While these are certainly must-see sights when visiting the city, there's so much more to explore.
Nestled in the 5th arrondissement is the Jardin des plantes de Paris – a 37-hectare oasis that's perfect for a peaceful walk or a picnic lunch.
History of the Jardin des plantes de Paris
The Jardin des plantes de Paris first opened to the public in 1626. It was originally designed as a medicinal herb garden for students at the nearby University of Paris, but it soon became a popular destination for all Parisians who were looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Over the years, the garden has undergone several expansions and renovations. Today, it's home to not only an array of beautiful plants, but also several museums, including the Natural History Museum (which houses fossils and dinosaur skeletons), the Museum of Evolution (which tells the story of how life on Earth has evolved), and the Grand Gallery of Evolution (a stunning glass-roofed gallery with views of plants from all over the world).
In addition, there are also greenhouses full of exotic plants, a children's zoo, and an Alpine Garden where you can admire rare mountain flowers.
No matter what time of year you visit, there's always something blooming at the Jardin des plantes de Paris! Be sure to add the Jardin des plantes de Paris to your list of must-see sights when visiting Paris.
19. The Parc des Buttes Chaumont Paris – A hidden gem in Paris
Tucked away in a quiet corner of the 19th arrondissement, the Parc des Buttes Chaumont is one of Paris's best-kept secrets. This sprawling, verdant oasis is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of the city center, and it's the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet.
With its meandering paths, scenic overlooks, and tranquil ponds, the park is an oasis of calm in an otherwise hectic city.
The Parc des Buttes Chaumont was created in 1867 by Napoleon III and his wife, Empress Eugenie. The park covers 64 acres (26 hectares) and includes a number of features that are unique to Paris. These include the Temple de la Sibylle, a replica of a Greek temple that overlooks the park; Les Grottes, a series of man-made caves that were once used as a smugglers' hideout; and Le Belvédère, a scenic overlook with sweeping views of Paris.
In addition to its unique features, the Parc des Buttes Chaumont is also home to a variety of plant and animal life. The park is home to over 100 species of trees, as well as numerous birds and small mammals. Visitors can also enjoy the park's two ponds, which are home to ducks, geese, frogs, and fish.
With its tranquil atmosphere and abundance of nature, the park is sure to lull you into a state of relaxed bliss. So what are you waiting for? Add this hidden gem to your Parisian itinerary today!
20. A walk through the Champ de Mars
When visiting Paris, there are a few must-sees on everyone's list: the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre, to name a few. But there's one spot in the city that often gets overlooked: the Champ de Mars.
Located just south of the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars is a large public park that's perfect for an afternoon walk.
History of the Champ de Mars
The Champ de Mars has been around since the 18th century and was originally used as a drill ground for French troops. In 1765, Jean Chalgrin—the architect behind the Arc de Triomphe—designed a set of formal gardens for the space.
In 1867, Napoleon III commissioned architect Alphand to design new landscaping for the park, which included winding paths, flowerbeds, lawns, and trees. This is the Champ de Mars that we know today.
What to See at the Champ de Mars
When you visit the Champ de Mars, make sure to check out these three sights.
The Eiffel Tower: The most obvious sight in the park is none other than the Eiffel Tower itself. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, this iconic structure stands 1,063 feet tall and offers incredible views of Paris.
The Statue of Grenadier du 17e Regiment du 1er Demi-Brigade de Ligne: This statue commemorates a group of French soldiers who fought bravely during the Battle of Solferino in 1859. The statue was designed by Francisque Paulin Duchatel and officially unveiled in 1867.
The Mémorial des Martyrs de la Déportation: This memorial commemorates 200,000 people who were deported from France during World War II. Designed by Louis Royer and erected in 1962, it consists of a concrete wall with 200 Galeotas—small sailing boats used by deportees—engraved into it.
This beautiful park is full of history and impressive sights—including one of the most famous towers in the world. Whether you're looking for breathtaking views or a moment of reflection, you'll find it all here at the Champ de Mars.
21. Visit the Church of Saint-Sulpice in Paris
The church has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 13th century. Here's a brief overview of the church's history, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a popular tourist destination.
The origins of the Church of Saint-Sulpice can be traced back to the early 13th century, when a small chapel was built on the banks of the Seine River. Over the next few centuries, the chapel was expanded and rebuilt several times, eventually becoming a full-fledged church in 1646.
The church underwent another major expansion in the mid-18th century, when world-renowned architectically Nicolas Ledoux was commissioned to add two new wings onto the existing structure. The resulting design was widely praised by contemporaries and is still considered to be one of Ledoux's masterpieces.
In recent years, the Church of Saint-Sulpice has become one of Paris's most popular tourist destinations, thanks in part to its role in Dan Brown's bestselling novel "The Da Vinci Code." Visitors from all over the world come to see the church's famous Blaise Pascal statue and learn more about its rich history.
The Church of Saint-Sulpice is definitely worth a stop. Be sure to take some time to explore all this iconic landmark has to offer!
22. The Bois de Vincennes – a magical forest in the heart of Paris
If you are looking for a place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of Paris, then head to the Bois de Vincennes. This huge park is like a breath of fresh air in the city and is perfect for a summer picnic or a winter walk.
The History of the Bois de Vincennes
The Bois de Vincennes was once part of the royal hunting grounds outside of Paris. In the 13th century, King Louis IX built a castle in the forest and it became a popular spot for royalty and nobility to hunt deer and other game. In the 17th century, Louis XIV built a larger palace in the woods and made it his official residence.
However, after the French Revolution, the royal family was overthrown and the palace was confiscated. It was eventually demolished in 1808.
What to see in the Bois de Vincennes today?
In spite of its royal history, today the Bois de Vincennes is a democratic space where everyone is welcome. It is perfect for a leisurely walk or a picnic with friends on a summer’s day.
There are two lakes where you can go boating or fishing, an open-air theater, an animal park and even an arboretum with over 7,000 trees from all around the world.
The best time to visit is probably in spring when the flowers are in bloom or in autumn when the leaves are changing color.
So next time you are feeling overwhelmed by city life, remember that there is always a green oasis waiting for you just on the outskirts of Paris – The Bois de Vincennes!
23. A Love Letter to The Wall of Love in Paris
Ah, Paris. The City of Love. There's something about the romance in the air that just makes you want to...well, fall in love. And what better place to do that than at The Wall of Love?
Located in the Montmartre district, this unique spot is covered in more than 1,000 love locks, each representing a couple's everlasting love. If you're looking for a place to celebrate your own love story (or just dream about one), The Wall of Love is the perfect destination.
The History of The Wall of Love
The Wall of Love was built in 2000 as part of an art installation called "Le mur des je t'aime" (The Wall of I Love You). It was created by French artist Frederique Frédéric Plamondon and consists of 321 steel plates covered in ceramic tiles.
On each tile is printed one line of Frédéric's poem, "je t'aime," which translates to "I love you" in English. In total, there are 1,028 declarations of love on The Wall of Love.
Whether you're coupled up or flying solo, The Wall of Love is definitely worth a visit next time you're in Paris. This unique spot is perfect for anyone who's looking for a little bit of romance (or just some good Instagram fodder). So grab your camera and your best beau/belle and head on over—you might just fall in love all over again.
If you're looking for a night of fun and excitement while in Paris, be sure to check out Moulin Rouge!
24. Visit the Trocadéro Gardens in Paris
Just a short walk away from the Eiffel Tower is Trocadéro Gardens—a beautiful, sprawling park that offers up stunning views of the tower and the cityscape beyond.
Trocadéro Gardens History
Trocadéro Gardens was first built for the 1878 World's Fair, which was held on the site of what is now the Palais de Chaillot. The gardens were designed to provide a space for visitors to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the fairgrounds. After the fair came to a close, Trocadéro Gardens underwent a major redesign, reopening to the public in 1937.
What to See at Trocadéro Gardens?
In addition to offering up gorgeous views of the Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro Gardens is home to a number of other interesting sights.
The centerpiece of the park is a large fountain adorned with statues of seahorses, seals, and mermaids. Nearby is a smaller fountain featuring statues of children playing; this fountain was designed by noted French sculptor Henri De Sonny and installed in 1983.
The gardens also feature several ponds, tranquil walking paths, and plenty of benches for resting and taking in the scenery.
Whether you're looking to take a break from sightseeing or just want to soak up some French culture, Trocadéro Gardens is the perfect spot to do it.
25. Spend a Day at Parc Astérix
Parc Astérix is a theme park in Paris that is based on the popular French comic book series, Asterix. The park first opened in 1989 and since then, has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
If you're spending a day in Paris and are looking for something fun to do, here's how to make the most of your time at Parc Astérix!
First, if you want to beat the crowds, it's best to arrive at the park when it opens at 10am. Once you're in, make your way to the Gaulish village which is one of the most popular areas of the park. Here, you can explore the homes and shop of Asterix, Obelix, and all your other favorite characters from the comics.
Next, head over to the Roman section of the park where you can take part in some thrilling rides and attractions. The Roman Empire never looked so fun! Be sure to check out Le Catapulte which is a ride that will leave you feeling like you've been shot out of a cannon!
Afterwards, make your way to one of the Park's many restaurants for some traditional French cuisine. There's something for everyone here, whether you're looking for a light snack or a full three-course meal.
Finally, end your day with a performance by Asterix and his friends at the main stage. Shows take place several times throughout the day and are always enjoyable for guests of all ages.
Parc Astérix is a must-visit for any fan of the comics or anyone who's looking for a fun-filled day in Paris. With plenty of rides and attractions, delicious food options, and live shows, there's something for everyone at this beloved theme park!
Conclusion:
So, there you have it - our ultimate Paris travel guide. We hope you find this information helpful and that it inspires you to visit one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
With so many things to see and do, Paris can be overwhelming for first-time visitors! However, by following this list of 25 must-see sights, you can be sure that you won't miss anything during your trip! If you have any questions or comments, please let us know in the comments below!
