Do you say “oui” to a trip to Paris? Make sure you explore the better of the city with this list of the top things to do in Paris!
Did you know that millions of tourists visit Paris every year? There’s a reason why the French capital is probably the most popular vacation destinations in the world. With so many fun things to do in Paris, you will never want to leave.
Once you have visited probably the most charming cities in all of Europe, you will also “always have Paris”, as Humphrey Bogart’s character says in the classic film. Casablanca.
Are you ready to make memories that will last a lifetime? Keep reading to find out about the 10 best things to do in Paris.
1. The Eiffel Tower
One of the best things to see in Paris is, obviously, the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Standing virtually 325 meters high, the Eiffel Tower dates back to 1889. It was built as part of the World’s Fair celebrations, but has since become the permanent French structure that everybody has seen in movies and works of art.
Of course, the real thing is better than what you see on TV, so during your trip to Paris, you must plan to visit the Eiffel Tower.
The first two levels have charming shops and delicious restaurants while the highest level will offer you a surprising view of the city.
2. The Louvre
Simply put, the Louvre is probably the greatest museums in the world. What was once a medieval fortress is now a fortress largest art museum in the world, so any art enthusiast should not miss the opportunity to see the various paintings, sculptures, artifacts and more.
You can literally spend days or even weeks there appreciating everything.
There are many Louvre Tour which can make your visit to the museum as smooth and free as possible. This is the best way to experience all that the Louvre has to offer.
3. Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame is the grandest example of gothic architecture. It has ominous gargoyles, charming stained glass, rose windows, a tall spire, and more.
While construction of this building masterpiece began in 1163, it took a mind-boggling two centuries to complete the whole project.
As charming as it’s on the outside, the inside is maybe even more astonishing. Once inside, you can see many medieval relics, such as the Crown of Thorns which is claimed to have come from the crucifixion of Jesus.
4. The River Seine
One of the best things to do in Paris is to take a river cruise on the only river Seine.
The river is 777 kilometers long and has played a very important role in the French economy throughout history by facilitating trade.
A drive along France’s second longest river is a fantastic way to get a feel for the city in general, allowing you to see lots of various sights, such as the Eiffel Tower and a smaller version of the Statue of Liberty.
5. Musée d’Orsay
The Louvre is not the only museum in Paris. The Musée d’Orsay is another museum of epic proportions that will make any art fan swoon.
Situated on the banks of the River Seine, the Musée d’Orsay used to be a train station before being abandoned for a time.
Eventually, the Musée d’Orsay was born, one of the world’s largest art museums and home to many iconic works. Inside, you can find paintings by Renoir, Manet, van Gogh, Cézanne, and lots of of history’s greatest artists.
6. Palace of Versailles
If you are wondering what to do in Paris, be sure you visit the magnificent Palace of Versailles. It is among the largest palaces in the world and is bound to fulfill a childhood dream of living in absolute luxury as a prince or princess.
Outside the palace, you’ll see many magnificently shaped bushes and immaculate gardens. Inside you’ll find a lot of luxurious rooms to explore.
Apart from the main palace, you can even visit the Hameau de la Reine Marie Antoinette, the Grand Canal, the Neptune Basin, the Royal Opera House, and lots of more.
7. Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a structure created to remember the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars.
Although there were victories during this war, many people lost their lives, so the Arc de Triomphe is the French way of paying homage to these people.
The Fall of Alexandria and the Battle of Austerlitz are only a few of the scenes you will see etched into the Arc de Triomphe.
8. Moulin Rouge
Seeing the Mouline Rouge show in Paris is a special experience.
Apart from charming women in otherworldly costumes, you can even see dancers performing astonishing tricks using hoops, roller skates, ropes and more. There are also some astonishing singers and musicians.
No show is complete without champagne and a delicious dinner.
9. La Cuisine Paris (Cooking Class)
Among other things, Paris is famous for its fine cuisine. So, in Paris you cannot only enjoy as much food as you like, but you can even take classes to find out how to cook food in your own home.
From pastries to main courses, you can impress your family and friends with the valuable cooking skills you have learned.
10. Catacombs of Paris
Even although Paris is known for its romance and decadence, you can visit the catacombs to learn more about what lies beneath the city.
The catacombs were built in the 18th century in response to a scarcity of burial space.
With bones and skulls lining the walls, visiting the catacombs of Paris is a must for any fan of terrible diseases.
Ready to Take Advantage of the Best Things to Do in Paris?
Now that you know about the 10 best things to do in Paris, you can plan probably the greatest adventures of your life.
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