50 Best Things to Do in Paris
Paris, the City of Light, draws visitors with its world-famous landmarks, charming streets, and undeniable romance. Planning a memorable trip means looking beyond the postcard views to find experiences that suit your style, whether you seek romantic activities in Paris, unique neighborhood explorations, or even the many rewarding free things to do in Paris available throughout the city. This guide helps you discover both the celebrated sights and the local secrets.
From soaking in art masterpieces to simply watching the world go by from a café terrace, Paris offers endless possibilities. This curated list presents 50 diverse activities, blending iconic attractions with lesser-known gems. Use it to build your itinerary and truly experience the magic woven into the fabric of this captivating capital.
Iconic Landmarks and Views
Visit the Eiffel Tower
Ascend Gustave Eiffel’s masterpiece for unforgettable panoramic views across Paris. Book tickets ahead to save time, especially if you want to reach the summit.
Climb the Arc de Triomphe
Head to the top of this historic arch for a stunning perspective down the Champs-Élysées and towards La Défense. The view, particularly at sunset, is spectacular.
Marvel at Notre Dame Cathedral (Exterior)
While restoration continues, admire the resilient beauty and intricate Gothic architecture of Notre Dame from the surrounding Île de la Cité. The nearby Square Jean XXIII offers good viewpoints.
Explore Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Visit this Romano-Byzantine basilica perched atop Montmartre hill. Enjoy the sweeping city views from its parvis, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Discover Sainte-Chapelle
Step inside this royal chapel known for its breathtaking stained-glass windows that depict biblical scenes. The upper chapel is particularly impressive on a sunny day.
See the Panthéon
Explore this neoclassical mausoleum housing the tombs of famous French figures like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Marie Curie. Admire its grand dome and Foucault’s pendulum.
Admire the Opéra Garnier
Tour the opulent Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera. Its lavish interiors, Grand Staircase, and Chagall-painted ceiling are truly magnificent.
World-Class Museums and Galleries
Explore the Louvre Museum
Home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, allocate several hours or even a full day here. Consider focusing on specific wings or taking a guided tour.
Visit the Musée d’Orsay
Housed in a stunning former railway station, this museum features an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. See works by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh.
Experience the Centre Pompidou
Discover modern and contemporary art in this unique inside-out building. The rooftop offers fantastic views towards the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre.
Wander the Musée Rodin
Explore the beautiful museum and sculpture garden dedicated to Auguste Rodin. See iconic works like ‘The Thinker’ and ‘The Kiss’ in a serene setting.
See the Musée Picasso
Located in the Marais district, this museum holds a vast collection of Picasso’s work. It showcases his paintings, sculptures, and drawings across different periods.
Contemplate Monet’s Water Lilies at Musée de l’Orangerie
Find Monet’s large-scale Water Lilies murals displayed in two oval rooms designed specifically for them. It’s an immersive and peaceful art experience.
Discover Hidden Gems at Musée Marmottan Monet
Home to the world’s largest collection of Claude Monet’s works, including ‘Impression, soleil levant’. This museum offers a more intimate viewing experience.
Enjoy Art for Free at the Petit Palais
Admire the fine arts collection housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building opposite the Grand Palais. The permanent collections are free to visit.
Learn Paris History at Musée Carnavalet
Explore the history of Paris from its origins to the present day in this fascinating museum located in two historic mansions. Entry to the permanent collection is free.
Charming Parks and Gardens
Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens
Stroll through these beautiful gardens commissioned by Marie de’ Medici. Enjoy the Medici Fountain, puppet shows, and watching locals play pétanque.
Walk Through the Tuileries Garden
Connect the Louvre Museum to the Place de la Concorde via this formal French garden. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or relaxing by the fountains.
Explore Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Discover this hilly park in northeastern Paris with its grottoes, waterfalls, and temple offering lovely city views. It’s a favorite among locals for picnics.
Stroll the Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte)
Walk along this elevated park built on an abandoned railway line, starting near Bastille. It offers a unique green escape above the city streets.
Visit Parc Monceau
Explore this elegant park known for its “follies” – scaled-down architectural features like an Egyptian pyramid and a Roman colonnade. It’s a peaceful retreat in the 8th arrondissement.
Escape to Bois de Boulogne
Rent a rowboat on Lac Inférieur or simply wander through this vast public park on the western edge of Paris. It offers numerous walking paths and green spaces.
Food and Drink Delights
Indulge in French Pastries
Start your day with a fresh croissant or pain au chocolat from a local boulangerie. Trying different viennoiseries is a must.
Taste Authentic Macarons
Sample these delicate almond meringue cookies from renowned pâtissiers like Ladurée or Pierre Hermé. Choose from a wide array of classic and inventive flavors.
Enjoy a Cheese Tasting
Visit a fromagerie (cheese shop) and sample some of France’s incredible variety of cheeses. Ask the cheesemonger for recommendations based on your preferences.
Savor French Wine
Enjoy a glass of French wine at a wine bar or restaurant. Consider a guided wine tasting to learn more about different regions and grape varieties.
Try Classic French Onion Soup
Warm up with a bowl of rich, cheesy French onion soup, especially comforting on a cooler day. Many traditional bistros serve excellent versions.
Eat Crêpes from a Street Stand
Grab a delicious sweet (Nutella, sugar, lemon) or savory (ham, cheese, egg) crêpe from a street vendor. It’s a quick and quintessential Parisian snack.
Explore Marché des Enfants Rouges
Visit Paris’s oldest covered market in the Marais district. Find diverse food stalls offering everything from French dishes to international cuisine.
Embrace Café Culture
Sit at an outdoor terrace of a Parisian café, order a coffee or drink, and simply watch the world go by. It’s a perfect way to soak up the city’s atmosphere.
Shop at a Local Food Market
Browse fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and flowers at an open-air neighborhood market like Marché Bastille or Marché Mouffetard. Experience local life and find picnic supplies.
Unique Activities and Neighborhood Walks
Take a Seine River Cruise
See Paris landmarks from a different angle on a relaxing boat tour along the Seine. Evening cruises offer magical views of the illuminated city.
Wander Through Montmartre
Explore the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre beyond Sacré-Cœur. Discover Place du Tertre where artists work, and wander the charming, winding streets.
Stroll Le Marais District
Walk through this historic and trendy neighborhood known for its aristocratic mansions, art galleries, boutiques, and Place des Vosges. It blends history with modern energy.
Explore the Latin Quarter
Discover the student hub of Paris, home to the Sorbonne University, bookshops, and lively cafes. Visit the famous Shakespeare and Company bookstore.
Walk Along Canal Saint-Martin
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the banks of this picturesque canal, popular with Parisians. Cross the iron footbridges and watch the locks operate.
Descend into the Catacombs
Explore the underground ossuaries holding the remains of millions of Parisians. This unique and somewhat macabre experience requires booking in advance.
Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery
Wander through the world’s most visited cemetery, the final resting place of famous figures like Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, and Édith Piaf. Its atmospheric paths and tombs are captivating.
Catch a Show at the Moulin Rouge
Experience a classic Parisian cabaret show with dazzling costumes and performances at this legendary venue. Book tickets well in advance for this popular night out.
Take a French Cooking Class
Learn the secrets of French cuisine, from baking croissants to mastering classic dishes. Several schools offer short classes for tourists.
Join a Bike Tour
Explore Paris on two wheels with a guided bike tour. It’s an active way to cover more ground and discover hidden corners of the city.
Take a Free Walking Tour
Join a tip-based walking tour to get acquainted with specific neighborhoods like Montmartre or the Latin Quarter. Guides share historical facts and local insights.
Discover the Covered Passages
Explore Paris’s charming 19th-century covered shopping arcades (passages couverts) like Galerie Vivienne or Passage des Panoramas. Find unique shops, tea rooms, and bookstores.
Find Hidden Courtyards
Peek behind large wooden doors (portes cochères) in areas like Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés. You might discover beautiful hidden courtyards and gardens.
Shopping and Markets
Window Shop on the Champs-Élysées
Stroll down this famous avenue lined with flagship stores, cafes, and cinemas, leading from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. It’s bustling day and night.
Visit Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Explore this iconic department store, famous for its stunning Art Nouveau dome. Don’t miss the rooftop terrace for free panoramic views.
Browse Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche
Visit Paris’s oldest department store, known for its sophisticated selection and Grande Épicerie de Paris food hall. It offers a refined shopping experience.
Explore Concept Store Merci
Discover this unique store in the Marais combining fashion, design, and homewares with a used-book café. Part of its profits goes to charity.
Hunt for Treasures at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen
Explore one of the world’s largest flea markets just outside Paris. Browse antiques, vintage clothing, furniture, and curiosities (best visited on weekends).
Visit Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
Browse the shelves of this legendary English-language bookstore opposite Notre Dame. Attend a reading or simply soak in the literary atmosphere.
