13 Best Things to Do in Paris

The moment you hear “coffee & croissant,” dreamy countryside, and shimmering images of the Eiffel Tower, along with beautiful phrases like “Bonjour” or “Comment ça va,” you know it’s Paris. No amount of explanation can be enough to justify that the best things to do in Paris aren’t just limited to your trip; indeed, it makes you a part of evergreen French culture. 

Paris, the capital city of France, Europe’s most beloved and the world’s liveliest destination, is every traveller’s first dream. Whether a couple looking for a honeymoon trip, a girl gang planning their bachelorette, or simply someone who adores the essence and grand gestures of French hospitality. The best things to do in Paris and its tagline, “City of Love,” stand true to their meaning, because there is love in the air at every turn and street. 

But apart from being the lover’s paradise and joyful nights, Paris is also a place where you witness French history at its best, making you travel to and fro, letting you feel the goosebump-inducing moments of history and revolution the city has undergone. If your obsession with this beloved place begins with wallpapers on your smart gadgets, souvenirs on your work desk, and that saved Parisian wish list on your feed, it’s a sign!  

Finally, booked that ticket to Paris, or about to, and looking for a bunch of things that turn your trip into pure magic? This is where you stop strolling and stop fetching, because your search ends here. In this blog, we will help you explore the top 13 best things to do in Paris. However, it’s hard to compile all the must-dos in a small list, but we’ve tried our best. 

Top 13 Best Things to do in Paris   

1. Marvel at the Eiffel Tower 

The only thing that pulls everyone to Paris is the very soul reason to live your bucket list - the iconic Eiffel Tower. The global symbol of France has got your back wherever you go in the city. Offering mesmerising views from every angle, it is probably the best thing to do in Paris if views and skylines make you happy. Watch it shimmer at night or during sunset, you will never be disappointed. Climbing up the tower is an experience in itself, with each level showcasing something different, from shopping boutiques to gourmet restaurants. The Eiffel Tower is what brings the entire city of Paris alive. This is your sign to live it rather than visualize it. 

Pro Tips While Visiting 

• Book tickets online early to avoid long queues, especially for summit access.

• Visit on weekdays or early morning / late evening (after 9 PM) for fewer crowds.

• Arrive 15–30 minutes early for security checks, even with timed tickets 

• Explore the levels:

  • 2nd floor = best panoramic city views

  • Summit = Eiffel’s office & champagne bar 

• Wear layers: it can be windy and cooler at the top, even in summer. 

2. Explore the Louvre Museum 

Where there is modern evolution, there is history that has transformed a place into what it looks like today. The Louvre Museum of Paris is one of the biggest museums in the world and a treasure trove of unique history. Located right on the banks of the Seine River, it is home to approximately 38,000 objects, ranging from prehistory to the 21st century, exhibited over an area of 72,735 square metres. 

Fun Fact: The museum is part of the Louvre Palace, originally built as a fortress in the late 12th–13th century under King Philip II. A key reason to visit this beautiful arena is the iconic painting of the Mona Lisa, but there is definitely much more to see and observe, making it one of the best attractions in Paris. 

Pro Tips While Visiting 

• Book tickets online for timed entry to avoid long queues 

• Pick 3–5 must-sees (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory) to avoid museum fatigue.

• Visit early morning or late evening (Wednesday & Friday nights) for a calmer experience.

• Avoid the main Pyramid entrance during peak hours, use Carrousel du Louvre or Porte des Lions for faster entry.

• Wear comfortable shoes—expect extensive walking across multiple wings and floors.

• Use the museum map or app to navigate the wings and highlights efficiently

3. Cruise Along the Seine River 

You can explore the city by walking, definitely by a local taxi or the subway, but how about sailing, passing through calm waters and seeing the city drift past you? In Paris, seize the unwinding aura as you enjoy cruising through the Seine River. Gliding across iconic landmarks and monuments, and seeing the city from a different perspective, is a unique thing to do in Paris. 

It’s perfect because it lets you slow down, lets you enjoy the cold breeze touching your face while passing under different bridges. Different periods of the day offer different views, where mornings and afternoons greet you with refreshing sunlight, while evenings paint the sky in dramatic hues of pink, orange, and gold. Let your soul take a pause and enjoy being in the moment while your eyes capture the details of the city. 

Pro Tips While Visiting: 

• Go at sunset or night for romantic views and sparkling city lights 

• Arrive 30–45 minutes early to locate the dock and board on time 

• Carry a light jacket or scarf; evenings can get chilly 

• Keep your camera ready for iconic views of the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Eiffel Tower shimmering over the Seine.

• Come hungry if it’s a dinner cruise; the food and ambience make it a memorable experience.

4. Disneyland Paris 

If living in a fairy-tale, dreamy land is your thing, then we are sure you would have always wished to experience Disneyland Paris through your own eyes rather than just on your social media feed. It’s the best thing to do in Paris with your family, friends, or even groups. It has the perfect charm of Disney magic and European elegance. 

Divided into two sections — Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park — each comprises its own unique activities and adventures. Participate in the iconic parade, meet your favourite Disney characters, and get awestruck by fireworks during the golden hour. Whether you love adventure or want to live as part of the Disney world, this is the best place to be. 

Pro Tips While Visiting: 

• Pack smart: comfy shoes, layers, a poncho, and a power bank 

• Stay at a Disney hotel to enjoy Extra Magic Hours (early park access).

• Save time: use Premier Access or Single Rider lines for popular rides. 

• Arrive 30–45 minutes early for parades and nighttime spectaculars like Disney Illuminations.

5. Stroll Through Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur 

A walk in Montmartre is a way of heading back in time — the old Paris. Experience what the city used to feel and look like in the past. A serene village situated amidst the metropolis, with old alleys and ancient houses, it invites you to climb uphill for the most panoramic views. Witness the white church of Sacré-Cœur; its architecture and white domes will blow your mind. 

Street performers and cafés along Boulevard de Clichy keep the place lively. The neighbourhood, home to families as well as commercial streets, has never let this section of Paris lose its charm. Wandering here without a to-do list is the best thing to do if you’re up for something offbeat. 

Pro Tips While Visiting 

• Take Metro Line 2 (Anvers) or Line 12 (Pigalle or Abbesses) to reach Montmartre 

• Walking is essential due to its narrow, cobblestoned streets 

• Be prepared for steep steps and uneven paths, especially around Sacré-Cœur 

• Dress modestly, as Sacré-Cœur is an active place of worship 

• Watch artists paint live, but stay alert for common scams and street tricks

• Visit early mornings, late afternoons, or weekdays to avoid heavy crowds 

6. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral 

Another significant landmark of Paris is Notre-Dame Cathedral. Well known for its Gothic architecture and located on the Île de la Cité, it sits at the heart of Paris. The detailed façade tells stories through intricate stone carvings. The cathedral has undergone numerous changes and historic revolutions, making it another ideal place to make yourself part of French heritage. 

Built in the 12th century, modified in the 18th century, and restored in the 19th century, it has remained a symbol of Christian worship in Paris throughout the centuries. This important site for royal events and celebrations invites visitors to admire the beautiful wall carvings and immerse themselves in its peaceful, timeless atmosphere. Following the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame has been undergoing restoration, with limited visitor access depending on current regulations

Pro Tips While Visiting 

• Dress modestly: cover shoulders and knees; men should remove hats inside 

• Maintain silence and respect, as it is an active place of worship.

• Don’t miss the massive 15th-century rose window and other stunning stained glass 

• Best time to visit: weekdays before 9:30 AM or after 4 PM, especially Thursday evenings 

7. Walk the Champs-Élysées & Climb Arc de Triomphe 

Want to feel the true essence of Paris? There couldn’t be anything better than taking a leisurely walk along the Champs-Élysées. Discover the rich elegance of the Arc de Triomphe as you explore glamorous avenues and iconic monuments. Begin your stroll beneath the sweeping glass dome of the Grand Palais, where architectural brilliance sets the stage. Wander down the iconic Champs-Élysées, soaking in the rhythm of Parisian life amidst designer boutiques, historic theatres, and charming cafés. Capture postcard-perfect views from the gilded Pont Alexandre III, learn about its ambitious stories and artistic vision, and let the bustling vibes blow your mind. 

Pro Tips While Visiting: 

• Never try to cross the traffic circle; use the underground tunnel (passage souterrain) on the Champs-Élysées side to reach the monument 

• You’ll climb 284 steps to the top; heels or flip-flops are not ideal 

• Late afternoon or sunset offers golden-hour light and sparkling Eiffel Tower views; the Eternal Flame ceremony takes place around 6:30 PM 

• Walk the avenue from the Arc towards Place de la Concorde, or vice versa, for grand views 

• Best photo spot: the top of the Arc offers a unique view of the 12 radiating avenues, including a direct axis towards the Eiffel Tower.

8. Palace of Versailles 

Home to the royal monarchy of France, the Palace of Versailles is a symbol of luxury and power. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the last 30 years, it is home to some of the finest art and artefacts. Here, every statue and every painting carries a story waiting to be heard. The interiors are so rich and vast that you are bound to be stunned, especially when you explore the Hall of Mirrors, which shines in its own glow. 

The museum collections, founded by Louis-Philippe and still active today, offer a chronological overview of the history of France from the Middle Ages to the late 19th century. Earlier a hunting lodge, then a royal palace, and now a museum, the Palace of Versailles is the best place to visit if vintage and heritage excite you. 

Pro Tips While Visiting 

• Book tickets in advance to avoid massive queues; choose a “Passport” ticket for full access 

• Decide on priority as the estate is huge; download the official app for maps and audio guides 

• Visit early morning (at opening time) or late afternoon (after 3:30 PM) for fewer crowds 

• Don’t miss the Grand Canal, the Trianons, and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet — they are highlights of the estate.

9. Visit Musée d’Orsay 

Musée d’Orsay is one of the most interesting and one-of-its-kind galleries in the heart of Paris. One of the most visited museums in Paris after the Louvre, you will always find exhibitions, public talks, and cultural events happening throughout the year. 

The best part is that it is set inside the glorious former Gare d’Orsay train station, which itself is an Art Nouveau showpiece. From small concerts and writers selling their masterpieces to movie screenings, Musée d’Orsay is one of the best attractions to visit in Paris. If art, entertainment, and socialising like a local Parisian is your thing, then you know exactly which place to add to your list of best things to do in Paris. 

Pro Tips While Visiting 

• The museum is closed on Mondays, but open late on Thursdays (until 9:45 PM) — a great time to visit after 6 PM when crowds thin 

• Go straight to the 5th floor (Impressionists) first to beat the biggest crowds, then work your way down 

• Grab a free floor plan at the entrance or download the official app to locate key works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.

• Step behind the giant clock on the 5th floor for an iconic view of the Seine and Paris 

• Enjoy the beautiful on-site cafés, such as Café Campana or the Restaurant du Musée d’Orsay, for a relaxing break

10. Relax in Luxembourg Gardens 

Named after the Luxembourg Palace, the garden echoes the grandeur of royal history and Parisian elegance. An oasis of aesthetic terraces, chestnut groves, and lush lawns, it has created a special place in the French heart. Dedicated by Napoleon to the children of Paris, it has since become one of the most popular places to enjoy model boat sailing at the Grand Bassin Pond, puppet shows at the Théâtre du Luxembourg, and various fun activities that make it a perfect day outing with your loved ones and family. Stroll along the garden’s elegant pathways, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil spaces that offer a perfect escape from the city’s bustle. Luxembourg Gardens may seem like a foreign garden, yet it very much feels like home, a place where peace and acoustic moments take over your mind and soul. 

Pro tips while visiting: 

• Opening times vary seasonally; the park closes at duskl, so plan your visit accordingly. 

•  Arrive before midday to secure a good spot near the central fountain. Look for the iconic green metal chairs for ultimate relaxation and people-watching.

• Visit the Medici Fountain and take photos at this beautifully framed, ivy-covered landmark. 

• Explore the Musée du Luxembourg and check for current art exhibitions, as it hosts themed shows. 

• Enjoy the playground or puppet show — kids (and adults!) love the playground and the famous puppet theatre (Théâtre des Marionnettes du Luxembourg). 

11. Experience Paris at Night 

As much as the days of Paris are filled with enthusiasm and energetic vibes, post-sunset Paris is illuminated with lights, letting every monument, street, and landmark shimmer at its best. The Eiffel Tower begins to sparkle, turning the skyline into a quiet spectacle that never gets old. Night walks feel slower and more intimate, as if the city is inviting you to linger a little longer. Cafés spill onto pavements, filled with laughter, clinking glasses, and conversation. The Seine reflects the lights like brushstrokes, adding a dreamlike calm to the city. Familiar landmarks feel transformed, almost secret, once the crowds thin out. Central Paris remains lively yet relaxed, making it easy to explore after dark. This is when Paris truly earns its title as the City of Light. 

Pro tips while visiting: 

• Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle on the hour 

• Consider climbing the Arc de Triomphe for incredible nighttime city views 

• Take a classic Seine River cruise to see illuminated monuments like the Louvre and Notre-Dame; dinner cruises offer food, music, and champagne 

• Experience the energy of shows like the Moulin Rouge, but book tickets well in advance 

• Wander charming streets, enjoy street performers, and visit hilltop viewpoints for stunning night views 

• Discover cozy jazz clubs or lively bars in neighbourhoods like Le Marais

12. Indulge in Parisian Food & Cafés 

Paris is a city where food is not rushed, negotiated, or compromised. Cafés are woven seamlessly into everyday life, serving as places to pause, observe, and simply exist. A morning croissant here is flaky, buttery, and quite perfect, while even the simplest lunch feels thoughtfully prepared. Meals are meant to be savoured, often stretching longer than planned. Café tables become front-row seats to Parisian life, ideal for people-watching without an agenda. From neighbourhood bistros to refined dining rooms, quality is taken seriously at every level. Desserts are unapologetically indulgent, crafted with precision and pride. Eating in Paris is less about hunger and more about ritual, and definitely one of the best things to do when you have no agenda for the day. 

Pro tips while visiting: 

• Learn basic French: “Bonjour” (hello), “Merci” (thank you), and “L’addition, s’il vous plaît” (the bill, please) go a long way 

• Research and prioritise: visit iconic cafés like Angelina for its famous hot chocolate, but also explore local bistros for authentic and affordable meals 

• Don’t just pick any table; wait for the staff to seat you, especially in busy cafés and restaurants

• French dining is an experience, not a rush;  meals are meant to be savoured, often lasting longer than expected.

13. Discover the Latin Quarter 

The Latin Quarter is one of Paris’s most intellectually alive and historically layered neighbourhoods. Centred around Sorbonne University, it has been a hub for students, philosophers, and writers for centuries. The name itself comes from Latin, once the language of academic life spoken in its streets. Narrow, winding lanes give the area a timeless charm, inviting you to slow down and explore without a plan. Independent bookshops, second-hand bookstores, and historic cafés line the streets, each with stories to tell. The atmosphere is youthful and energetic, yet deeply rooted in tradition. Street musicians, small cinemas, and late-night cafés keep this unique place in Paris buzzing well into the evening. Despite its popularity, it still feels authentic, lived-in, and raw. 

Pro tips while visiting: 

• Walk everywhere — it’s the best way to discover hidden courtyards, historic plaques, and small shops; you’re close to the Seine, so you can’t get lost 

• Explore Rue Mouffetard, an ancient and charming street perfect for wandering, food, and drinks 

• Check out the beautiful Sainte-Geneviève Library near the Panthéon 

• Be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas; keep bags zipped and valuables secure 

You thought you knew Paris, but only the one that exists in your dreams. It’s time to live it, seize it, and experience it this summer. With 13 best things to do in Paris, treat this blog as your go-to guide for falling wholeheartedly in love with the capital of French culture. 

This summer, plan your vacation with Tripoly’s All-Inclusive Group Tour and turn your Parisian wish list into reality in the most blissful way. Get in touch right away!