Brimming with iconic attractions, stunning architecture, and cultural heritage, Paris is one of the world’s most iconic cities. If it’s made it onto your travel bucket list but you’re overwhelmed with what to do and see when you get there, here’s a breakdown of the French capital’s best bits.
1. Eiffel Tower
A trip to Paris isn’t complete without catching a glimpse of this 324m-high tower. As you’d expect, it tops most tourists’ itinerary, so be prepared for long queues and big crowds.
If you can, try and check it out during the day and the evening. As soon as the sun goes down, the monument comes to life with sparkling lights for five breathtaking minutes every hour, on the hour, until 1am – it’s not a sight to be missed!
2. Louvre Museum
If you appreciate your paintings the Louvre is a must. It’s the world’s largest art museum and houses some of the most impressive collections in history; most notably the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci – expect crowds seven to eight-lines deep around this one.
3. Notre-Dame
Despite being temporarily closed due to the fire damage it incurred earlier this year, the Notre-Dame’s still worth strolling by to get close to its rich religious roots.
It’s a medieval Catholic cathedral, consecrated to the Virgin Mary, and is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in the world.
4. Arc de Triomphe
This magnificent arch was built to commemorate Napoleon’s victories and is arguably one of the city’s most iconic monuments.
It’s worth a visit even if you’re not into your history. If you’ve got what it takes to climb up its 284 steps (if not, you can always hop in the elevator) you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of the whole of Paris.
5. Sacré-Cœur
Simply stunning – inside and out. Sacré-Cœur boasts beautiful interior mosaics, stained-glass windows, a crypt, and, unsurprisingly, it’s another tourist hotspot.
6. Champs-Élysées
Home to some of Paris’ most well-known landmarks including the Louvre, Tuileries, and Arc de Triomphe, the avenue of Champs-Élysées is brimming with shops and restaurants. The world-famous street attracts around 300,000 visitors every single day – so expect a bit of hustle and bustle as you’re walking around.
7. Traditional delicacies
Whether it’s a freshly baked croissant, sweet pastry, or mouthwatering crêpe, you must try some traditional French food while you’re in Paris. To pick up something truly authentic just head to locally run patisseries or street stalls.
