Top Attractions in Paris
Paris Travel Guide
Welcome to the ultimate Paris travel guide! Paris, also known as the “City of Lights”, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is known for its romantic atmosphere, rich history, world-class art, and delicious food. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo trip, Paris has something to offer for everyone.Getting Around
Paris is a very walkable city and the best way to explore it is on foot. However, the city also has an excellent public transportation system that includes buses, metro trains, and trams. A single ticket costs €1.90 and can be used for a single ride on any of the public transportation options. A carnet of 10 tickets is €16. If you plan to use the public transportation frequently, consider purchasing a Navigo pass which allows for unlimited travel within the city.
Accommodation
Paris offers a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets. The city has luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and everything in between. Some popular areas to stay in are the Marais, the Latin Quarter, and the Montmartre.
Attractions
Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Champs-Elysées. Other must-see attractions include the Arc de Triomphe, the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, and the Palace of Versailles.
Food and Drink
Paris is known for its delicious food and wine. Some of the must-try dishes include escargots, ratatouille, and crème brûlée. The city also has a wide range of cafés and bistros where you can enjoy a croissant and coffee. For fine dining, the city has several Michelin-starred restaurants.
Nightlife
Paris is known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Some popular areas for nightlife include the Marais, the Latin Quarter, and the Champs-Elysées.
Shopping
Paris is a shopper’s paradise. The city is home to several luxury fashion houses and designer boutiques. Some popular shopping areas include the Champs-Elysées, the Marais, and the Latin Quarter.
The 12 Best Things to Do in Paris
See Eiffel Tower
About Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is an iconic landmark located in Paris, France. Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, it stands at 324 meters tall and was the tallest man-made structure in the world at the time of its completion. Today, the Eiffel Tower is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of Paris from its observation decks. It is also home to a number of restaurants and gift shops. Whether you’re admiring the tower from afar or climbing to the top, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see for any visitor to Paris.
Eiffel Tower Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The entrance fee and visiting hours for the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France vary depending on the time of year and the level of access you choose.
For 2023, the standard adult ticket to access the top of the Eiffel Tower costs €28.50, while tickets to the second floor cost €19.00. Visitors can also choose to take the stairs instead of the elevator, which is a more affordable option.
As for visiting hours, the Eiffel Tower is open every day of the year, with the exception of certain holidays. During the summer months, from mid-June to early September, the tower is open from 9:00 AM to 12:45 AM, with the last elevator departing at 11:00 PM. From mid-September to mid-June, the tower is open from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM, with the last elevator departing at 10:30 PM.
It’s important to note that the Eiffel Tower can get very busy, particularly during peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long waits.
Visit Louvre Museum
About Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is one of the world’s most famous and prestigious art museums, located in the heart of Paris, France. It houses an extensive collection of artwork and artifacts spanning over 9,000 years of history, from ancient times to the present day. Some of the museum’s most famous works include the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the Venus de Milo. With more than 35,000 works of art on display across 60,600 square meters of exhibition space, the Louvre is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in art and history. It is also the most visited museum in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Louvre Museum Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The entrance fee and visiting hours for the Louvre Museum in Paris, France vary depending on the time of year and the level of access you choose.
For 2023, the standard adult ticket to access the Louvre’s permanent collections costs €18, while admission to temporary exhibitions may require an additional fee. Visitors can also choose to purchase a Paris Museum Pass, which provides access to multiple museums and monuments across the city, including the Louvre.
As for visiting hours, the Louvre is open every day except Tuesdays, and some holidays. During the high season, from April to September, the museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with extended hours until 9:45 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays. During the low season, from October to March, the museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day, except for Wednesdays and Fridays, when it stays open until 9:45 PM.
It’s important to note that the Louvre can get very busy, particularly during peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long waits.
Strolling Through Versailles Palace
About Versailles Palace
Versailles Palace is a grand 17th-century château located in Versailles, France, just outside of Paris. It was built by King Louis XIV and served as the seat of the French government for over a century, until the French Revolution in 1789. The palace is known for its opulent architecture, extravagant furnishings, and stunning gardens, and is a prime example of French Baroque architecture.
Some of the most famous rooms in the palace include the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Chamber, and the Queen’s Chamber. Today, Versailles Palace is a popular tourist attraction and museum, with visitors from all over the world coming to marvel at its beauty and learn about its fascinating history.
Versailles Palace Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The entrance fee and visiting hours for Versailles Palace in France vary depending on the time of year and the level of access you choose.
For 2023, the standard adult ticket to access the palace and gardens costs €27.00, while admission to special exhibitions may require an additional fee. Visitors can also choose to purchase a Passport ticket, which provides access to the entire estate, including the palace, gardens, and Trianon palaces.
As for visiting hours, Versailles Palace is open every day except Mondays, and some holidays. During the high season, from April to October, the palace is open from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM, with extended hours until 9:45 PM on Saturdays for the Musical Fountains Show. During the low season, from November to March, the palace is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM every day, except for Tuesdays, when it is closed.
It’s important to note that Versailles Palace can get very busy, particularly during peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to book tickets in advance to avoid long waits. Additionally, visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds and make the most of their visit.
Boat Trip on the Seine River
About Boat Trip on the Seine River
A boat trip on the Seine River is a popular tourist attraction in Paris, France. The Seine River runs through the heart of the city, offering stunning views of Paris’s iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Many different companies offer boat tours, ranging from short one-hour cruises to longer dinner cruises with live music and entertainment.
The boats typically have indoor and outdoor seating, and many offer commentary in multiple languages, providing historical and cultural information about the city and its landmarks. A boat trip on the Seine River is a great way to see the city from a unique perspective and is a must-do activity for any visitor to Paris.
Boat Trip on the Seine River Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The entrance fees and visiting hours for a boat trip on the Seine River in Paris, France vary depending on the company and type of tour you choose.
For a one-hour daytime sightseeing cruise, prices can range from €10 to €20 for adults and €5 to €10 for children. Longer dinner cruises with live music and entertainment can cost upwards of €100 per person.
As for visiting hours, boat tours on the Seine River generally operate from early morning until late at night, with different companies offering different schedules. Some tours are only available during the day, while others offer evening and night-time cruises, which can be especially beautiful with Paris illuminated at night.
It’s recommended to book boat tours in advance, particularly during peak tourist season, to avoid long waits or disappointment due to sold-out tours. Additionally, it’s important to check the weather forecast and dress appropriately for the boat trip, especially during colder months.
Visit Notre Dame Cathedral
About Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral is a medieval Catholic cathedral located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris, France. Construction of the cathedral began in the 12th century and it took almost 200 years to complete. The cathedral is known for its Gothic architecture, including flying buttresses, intricate stained glass windows, and beautiful sculptures.
It has also played an important role in French history, including being the site of Napoleon Bonaparte’s coronation in 1804. In April 2019, the cathedral suffered a devastating fire that damaged much of the structure, but it is currently being restored and will once again be open to the public in the future. Notre-Dame Cathedral is an iconic symbol of Paris and a must-see attraction for visitors to the city.
Notre Dame Cathedral Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
Notre-Dame Cathedral is currently closed to the public due to the extensive damage caused by the April 2019 fire. However, it is expected to reopen to visitors in the future, after the restoration process is complete.
Prior to the fire, admission to the cathedral was free of charge for all visitors. However, access to the cathedral’s towers, which offered stunning views of the city, required a fee. The fee for climbing the towers was €10 for adults and €5 for children, and it included access to the cathedral as well.
As for visiting hours, Notre-Dame Cathedral was open to the public every day of the year, except for certain holidays. The general visiting hours were from 8:00 AM to 6:45 PM, with extended hours until 7:45 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. However, it’s important to note that during peak tourist season, there could be long lines to enter the cathedral, so it was advisable to arrive early in the day to avoid crowds. Once the cathedral reopens, it’s likely that similar visiting hours will be in effect, but it’s best to check the official website for updated information.
Discover Luxembourg Garden
About Luxembourg Garden
Luxembourg Garden is a public park located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France. It was originally created in the early 17th century for Marie de’ Medici, the widow of King Henry IV, as part of the Luxembourg Palace. The garden covers 23 hectares and features formal French gardens, a large central pond, fountains, statues, and numerous walking paths.
The park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a serene escape from the bustling city streets. There are also several attractions within the park, including the Medici Fountain, the Luxembourg Palace, and a children’s playground. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as jogging, tennis, chess, and picnicking. Luxembourg Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of Paris’s green spaces.
Luxembourg Garden Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
Admission to Luxembourg Garden is free of charge for all visitors. The garden is open every day of the year, including weekends and holidays. The opening and closing times of the park vary depending on the season.
Generally, Luxembourg Garden is open from 7:30 AM to 8:15 PM from April to September, and from 8:15 AM to 4:30 PM from October to March. However, during peak tourist season, the garden may be open for longer hours. It’s important to note that some of the park’s attractions, such as the playground and the tennis courts, have their own specific opening and closing times.
Overall, Luxembourg Garden is a beautiful and relaxing place to visit in the heart of Paris, and it’s an excellent option for travelers who are looking for a budget-friendly activity.
Enjoy Moulin Rouge Show
About Moulin Rouge Show
Moulin Rouge is a world-famous cabaret located in the Montmartre district of Paris, France. It was founded in 1889, and has since become known for its spectacular burlesque shows, featuring dancers dressed in elaborate costumes and performing high-energy dance routines. The Moulin Rouge is also famous for its iconic red windmill, which sits atop the building and serves as a symbol of the cabaret.
The Moulin Rouge show typically lasts for two hours and features a variety of performances, including singing, dancing, and acrobatics. The show also includes a number of different themes, ranging from classical French can-can to modern music and dance styles. In addition to the performances, guests can also enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks during the show.
Overall, the Moulin Rouge is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the glamour and excitement of Paris’s nightlife. The cabaret has a long and storied history, and its shows continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Moulin Rouge Show Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The entrance fee for the Moulin Rouge show varies depending on the package chosen. Prices typically range from around 100 to 500 euros per person, with higher-priced packages including better seating, a gourmet dinner, and other extras.
As for the showtimes, the Moulin Rouge offers two performances every evening, seven days a week. The first show typically begins at 9:00 PM, while the second show starts at 11:00 PM. It’s recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes before the showtime to check in and find your seat.
It’s important to note that the Moulin Rouge is a popular attraction, and tickets often sell out well in advance. To ensure that you can attend the show on your desired date, it’s best to book your tickets online ahead of time. Dress code is also formal, with a jacket and tie requested for men. Cameras and recording devices are strictly prohibited during the performance.
Self Guided Tour in Paris
About Self Guided Tour in Paris
A self-guided tour in Paris allows visitors to explore the city’s many attractions at their own pace and on their own schedule. This type of tour typically involves using a map or guidebook to navigate the city’s streets and visit various landmarks and points of interest.
One of the advantages of a self-guided tour is that it provides travelers with the flexibility to customize their itinerary based on their interests and preferences. Whether you want to visit famous monuments like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral or explore lesser-known neighborhoods and hidden gems, a self-guided tour allows you to do so on your own terms.
To make the most of your self-guided tour, it’s recommended to plan your itinerary ahead of time and make note of any special opening hours or ticketing requirements for the attractions you want to visit. You may also want to consider using a mobile app or audio guide to provide additional context and information about the landmarks you’re seeing.
Overall, a self-guided tour is an excellent option for independent travelers who want to explore Paris at their own pace and on their own terms. It offers a great deal of flexibility and freedom, and can be a cost-effective alternative to guided tours.
Self Guided Tour in Paris Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The cost and hours of a self-guided tour in Paris can vary depending on the attractions and activities you choose to include in your itinerary. Generally, there is no set fee for a self-guided tour as it is up to you to decide how much you want to spend on admission fees, food, transportation, and other expenses.
As for the hours, most of the attractions in Paris are open between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM, but some may have longer or shorter hours depending on the day of the week or the season. It’s recommended to check the opening hours of each attraction you plan to visit in advance to avoid any surprises or disappointment.
One advantage of a self-guided tour is that you can explore Paris at any time of day or night, as long as the attractions you want to visit are open. However, it’s important to keep in mind that some areas of the city may be less safe or less lively late at night, so it’s always a good idea to exercise caution and stay aware of your surroundings.
Overall, a self-guided tour can be an affordable and flexible way to explore Paris, and with careful planning and research, you can make the most of your time in the city.
Explore Disneyland Paris
About Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is a world-renowned theme park located in Marne-la-Vallee, France, just a short train ride from the center of Paris. The park is divided into two sections: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, both of which offer a wide range of attractions and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Disneyland Park is home to classic Disney rides and attractions, such as “It’s a Small World,” “Pirates of the Caribbean,” and “Space Mountain,” as well as parades, shows, and character meet-and-greets. Walt Disney Studios Park focuses more on the behind-the-scenes magic of movie-making, with attractions such as “Crush’s Coaster” and “The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror,” as well as stunt shows and interactive experiences.
In addition to the parks, Disneyland Paris also features numerous hotels, restaurants, and shopping areas, all designed to transport visitors to the magical world of Disney. There are also seasonal events and special offerings, such as Disney Halloween and Disney Christmas, that add an extra layer of excitement to a visit to the park.
Overall, Disneyland Paris is a must-visit destination for Disney fans and families looking for a fun-filled and magical experience in Europe.
Disneyland Paris Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The entrance fee for Disneyland Paris varies depending on the type of ticket and package you choose, as well as the season. Generally, a one-day, one-park ticket costs around €69 for adults and €63 for children ages 3-11. There are also multi-day tickets and packages that include access to both Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, as well as additional perks like fast-passes and meal vouchers.
As for visiting hours, Disneyland Paris is open every day of the year, but hours vary depending on the season. Typically, the parks open at 10:00 am and close between 6:00 pm and 11:00 pm, with extended hours during peak season and special events. It’s recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times.
Take a Walk Down Champs-Elysees
About Champs-Elysees
Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in the world and a major landmark of Paris, France. Located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, it stretches from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, covering a distance of about 1.9 kilometers.
The avenue is home to some of the most luxurious shops, restaurants, theaters, and cafes in Paris. Visitors can find high-end fashion brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Gucci, as well as popular tourist attractions like the Lido Cabaret and the Grand Palais exhibition hall. The street is also known for its beautiful gardens, wide sidewalks, and stunning architecture.
Champs-Élysées is a popular destination for both tourists and locals, with numerous events and celebrations taking place throughout the year, such as the Bastille Day military parade and the final stage of the Tour de France. It’s a great place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a coffee or a meal, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Parisian life.
Champs-Elysees Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
There is no entrance fee to visit Champs-Élysées as it is a public street and open to everyone. However, prices for the various shops, restaurants, and attractions may vary.
As for visiting hours, Champs-Élysées is open 24/7, although some shops and attractions may have their own hours of operation. The busiest times are usually during the day and early evening, with many shops and restaurants staying open until around 10 pm. It’s recommended to check the hours of any specific shops or attractions you plan to visit before heading out.
Musee d’Orsay
About Musee d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is a world-renowned museum located in the heart of Paris, France. It is housed in a former railway station, the Gare d’Orsay, which was built in the late 19th century and converted into a museum in the 1980s.
The museum is famous for its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by artists such as Van Gogh, Monet, Degas, and Renoir. Visitors can also admire a wide range of sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The building itself is a work of art, with its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and a central clock that has become an iconic symbol of the museum. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the galleries, taking in the beautiful works of art and learning about the history and cultural significance of each piece.
The Musée d’Orsay is a must-visit destination for art lovers and history buffs, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant and dynamic artistic movements of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Musee d’Orsay Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The Musée d’Orsay’s entrance fee varies depending on age, nationality, and the type of ticket purchased. The regular ticket price for adults is €14, while visitors under the age of 18 can enter for free. There are also reduced rates for visitors between the ages of 18 and 25, and visitors with disabilities.
The museum is open every day except Mondays, from 9:30am to 6:00pm, and until 9:45pm on Thursdays. The museum is closed on May 1st and December 25th. Visitors are advised to check the museum’s website for any changes to the opening hours and ticket prices. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines at the ticket office.
Arc de Triomphe
About Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a historic monument located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées in Paris. It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honor the French army, and was completed in 1836. The monument is adorned with sculptures and reliefs that depict various military victories and battles. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which honors fallen soldiers from World War I, is located beneath the arch.
The Arc de Triomphe stands 50 meters tall and 45 meters wide, and visitors can climb to the top for a panoramic view of Paris. The monument is a popular tourist attraction and is also used for national events, such as military parades.
In recent years, the Arc de Triomphe has undergone renovations to improve its accessibility and preserve its historical significance. The monument is a symbol of France’s military prowess and its enduring legacy.
Arc de Triomphe Entrance Fee and Visiting Hours
The entrance fee for the Arc de Triomphe varies depending on age and nationality. For adults, the fee is €13, and for those under 18 years old, the fee is free of charge. European Union citizens under 26 years old, disabled visitors and their companions, and some other groups are also eligible for free entry.
The Arc de Triomphe is open every day of the year, except January 1st, May 1st, May 8th (morning), July 14th (morning), November 11th (morning), and December 25th. The opening hours are from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm from April 1st to September 30th, and from 10:00 am to 10:30 pm from October 1st to March 31st. Visitors can access the top of the monument until 10:30 pm (April 1st to September 30th) or 10:00 pm (October 1st to March 31st).
We hope this guide helps you plan your perfect trip to Paris. Bon voyage!
Note: Some of the information may be outdated as my knowledge cutoff is 2023 and prices and availability may have changed and also it’s a general guide, it’s always best to check with local authorities and service providers for the most accurate and updated information.
Author: Arif Cagrici – Head of Digital