What to see in Paris, everything you need to see

Before looking at specific monuments, it’s best to understand what to do in Paris beyond the typical photos. The city offers a wide range of travel styles: cultural, romantic, family or urban.

Among the things to see in Paris, we recommend alternating major icons with quieter walks. Strolling along the banks of the Seine , crossing historic bridges or sitting in a Parisian garden are all part of the experience. 

It is also very important to spend time on museums, but without becoming cluttered: Paris is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

If it’s your first time, focus on the places you have to see in Paris at least once in your life. And if you already know the city, choose less touristy districts, historical cemeteries or urban viewpoints that offer a different perspective.

Depending on the number of days you will be in the capital, it is very important that you plan your weather well in advance, and that’s why we recommend these practical guides:

• What to see in Paris in one day
• What to see in Paris in 2 days
• What to see in Paris in 3 days
• What to see in Paris in 4 days
• What to see in Paris in 5 days

If you want to take a romantic and unforgettable trip, you have this post for a romantic getaway break in Paris or this post for relaxing with your partner in Paris.

We want you to don’t miss any of the places to see in Paris that are essential for savoring its essence and leaving a piece of your heart in the City of Light. We propose a list and just a few of what you will find when you visit these places of interest in Paris. Take note! There is something for everyone of tastes.

Not only is it one of the most important museums in Paris, it’s also one of the most important museums in the world. A former royal palace, its transformation into a museum marked a before and after in the history of art.

To visit its rooms is like traveling from antiquity to the 19th century. Beyond the famous Mona Lisa, the Louvre is also a space that reflects the power, culture and evolution of France. The architecture, from classical palaces to modern pyramids, perfectly reflect the Parisian spirit.

The Eiffel Tower is an important icon of what to see in Paris. Built for the Universal Exhibition in 1889, it went from being highly criticised to becoming the undisputed icon of the city. We recommend you get tickets here before going.

Beyond going up to the tower, we recommend you to see it from different points of view: at sunset from the Trocadéro or lit up at night. It’s one of those places in Paris that changes depending on the time and the light.

The Grand Dame of Paris embodies the medieval soul of the capital. Located on the Ìle de la Cité, it is a benchmark for French Gothic architecture and a key site for understanding the history of the city.

Although the fire in 2019 had a major impact on its recent history, it is still one of the most stunning places to see in Paris due to its symbolism and its privileged location alongside the Seine. We recommend our post: A guide to visiting Notre Dame Cathedral which includes everything you need to know before visiting the city.

The Arc de Triomphe in Paris pays tribute to French military victories and dominates the Place Charles de Gaulle.

It is one of the best urban viewpoints for understanding the structure of the city and the magnitude of the Champs-Élysées, making it a must-see among the places you have to see in Paris.

The Musée d'Orsay is famous for its Impressionist collection and a unique location in an old train station.

It is perfect for travelers looking for things to see in Paris related to modern art in a more manageable space than the Louvre but just as impressive.

A huge basilica perched on Montmartre hill and offering one of the best views of the city. Beyond religious issues, it is also a symbol of a bohemian and artistic Paris and a top destination among the things to see in Paris.

The Georges Pompidou National Center of Art and Culture breaks with the classical aesthetics of the city. Its industrial architecture and collection of modern art make it an essential cultural icon.

Paris has a monumental building and a benchmark for 19th century architecture in the heart of the city. The Garnier Opera is simply spectacular. The ornate and elegant interior reflects the most opulent Paris. Even without attending a event, it’s still worth including among the places you have to visit in Paris.

A jewel in the Gothic style, La Sainte Chapelle is famous for its stained-glass windows. This is one of the places to see in Paris that amaze you due to its intense beauty and almost surreal ambience.

The Tuileries Garden connects the Louvre with the Place de la Concorde. Ideal for resting between visits and understanding how Paris includes green spaces in its urban design.

Paris pays tribute to key figures in French history in its Pantheon. Located in the Latin Quarter, it combines monumental architecture and history.

The Place de la Concorde is one of the largest squares in Europe. Its obelisk and revolutionary history make it a must-see among the places to visit in Paris.

Although located outside the historic centre, La Défense is an interesting stop for understanding the most contemporary Paris. 

You can see more in our post What to see in La Defense, especially if you are interested in modern urbanism or if you are looking for a clear contrast with districts such as Le Marais or Montmartre. A visual axis aligned with the Arc de Triomphe also helps to better understand the urban planning of the capital.

Stroll without thinking about the time in one of the urban parks which is most loved by Parisians. Perfect for relaxing and watching the local life go by.

The Père-Lachaise Cemetery is an open-air museum. The place is home to famous artists and writers, making it one of the most unique places to visit in Paris.

The Avenue des Champs-Élysées connects Concorde with the Arc de Triomphe. This is one of the most famous promenades in the world.

In addition to seeing all the essential monuments and museums in the capital, the city displays its charm at every step, and that is why we recommend what to see in each of the districts of Paris. Pay attention to the style of each one and go even deeper into those that catch your attention. Contrast is unique

The Latin Quarter

This is one of the most iconic districts in Paris. You could spend hours and hours discovering every corner of a district that has seen historical figures such as Simone de Beauvoir, Victor Hugo or Marie Curie. If you wish, you can read our post Explore the Latin Quarter to learn more.  

Montmartre

Montmartre retains all the bohemian spirit of artistic Paris. Steep streets, workshops and historic cafés help make it one of the places to visit in Paris with the greatest personality. You can learn more about this by reading our post What to see in Montmartre.

Montparnasse

If any district was the intellectual center of the 20th century, it would have to be Montparnasse. Today it’s a perfect combination of cultural traditions and local life, making it ideal for travelers looking for things to do in Paris outside the tourist areas. See our post What to see in Montparnasse to learn more about what you can find in the district.

Le Marais

It is one of the most complete districts to visit in Paris. Le Marais combines medieval history, Jewish culture and modernity. If you want to explore it before adding it to your itinerary, take a look at our post What to see in Le Marais to see more.

Although located on the outskirts of the city, Versailles is one of the most essential excursions if you want to complete your visit to Paris. The famous palace and monumental gardens help understand the greatness of the French kingship and the historical role the city played over the centuries.

If you are really interested in visiting Versailles, we recommend you read our post What to see in Versailles. It’s a perfect option if you have several days to go and want to see more of the places to see in Paris beyond the historical centre.

Choosing your accommodation is vital if you want to make the most of what to see in Paris, as the city is so vast and each area offers its own different experience. That’s why we suggest hotels in Paris with different styles and prices which are notable above all due to their prime locations. Ideal for getting around on foot or by public transport and to easily fit in the top places to see in Paris within any itinerary.

• Boutique hotels: Villa Marquis Meliá Collection and Maison Colbert Meliá Collection are elegant and exclusive hotels in the heart of Paris. One near the Champs Élysées, the other in the Latin Quarter, a few steps from Notre Dame.
• Meliá Paris Champs Elysées Located in a quiet and well-connected residential area very near the Arc de Triomphe, allowing you to enjoy a more local Paris without having to leave the city.
• Meliá Paris Vendôme Located near the Garnier Opera and Place Vendôme, it is an excellent base for exploring museums, gardens and some of the most central shopping areas on foot.
• Hotel Paris Opéra Affiliated by Meliá Located in the lively district of Opera, near the theatres, covered passages and numerous transport links to get around the city.

If you’re looking for something very different in Paris, we suggest strolling through historic cemeteries, exploring bookstores alongside the Seine or discovering little-known urban viewpoints. It’s also a good idea to explore local markets or explore different neighborhoods without any fixed route.

These experiences help you understand the city from within and also help enrich any list of things to see in Paris.

Typical cuisine in Paris

Cuisine is an essential part of where to eat in Paris. Beyond croissants and baguettes, the city offers an enormous culinary tradition including bistros, cheeses and artisan pastries.
Sitting on a terrace, watching life go by and enjoying local cuisine is one of the greatest Parisian pleasures.

Popular festivals and traditions in Paris

Paris hosts cultural events throughout the year. From national celebrations to music and art festivals, these traditions are among the things you should see in Paris and allow you to connect with local life.

What to do with children in Paris

Paris is also ideal for families. Extensive gardens, interactive museums and boat trips on the River Seine make the city an accessible destination for all ages.

Paris even more exclusive

Discover true luxury in Paris in our post. If you have visited the City of Light many times, come back and treat yourself to something special. Paris is still the capital of European fashion, and visiting its boutiques is a pleasure.