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Paris, a city that has inspired poets, artists, dreamers, and romantics for centuries. Whether you’re here for a whirlwind weekend or a long, leisurely stay, Paris always has something new to offer. From iconic landmarks to tucked-away cafés, Paris is a feast for the senses.
12 Things to Do in Paris
1. Climb the Eiffel Tower (or picnic underneath it)
Let’s start with the obvious. You can’t visit Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Whether you climb to the top for a panoramic view or simply spread out a picnic blanket in the nearby Champ de Mars park, the Iron Lady is every bit as magical as you’d imagine. For fewer crowds and golden hour light, visit in the late afternoon.
2. Stroll along the Seine
The River Seine winds gracefully through Paris and is lined with bookstalls, bouquinistes, bridges, and views that look like postcards. A walk along the Seine, especially at sunset, is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. You’ll pass by Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower, all from the comfort of a cobblestone path.
3. Get lost in Montmartre
Montmartre is a village within a city, bohemian, charming, and full of history. This hilltop neighbourhood was once home to artists like Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec. Explore its winding streets, sip espresso at a street-side café, and be sure to visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for a sweeping view of the city skyline.
9. Catch your breath at Jardin du Luxembourg
Need a break from sightseeing? Head to the Jardin du Luxembourg, a peaceful haven in the 6th arrondissement. The manicured lawns, fountains, and tree-lined paths make it perfect for a mid-afternoon stroll. Grab a green chair by the pond or bring a book and enjoy the calm.
Fun fact: The gardens were designed for Marie de’ Medici in the 1600s.
4. Marvel at Notre-Dame and Île de la Cité
Though it’s still under restoration, Notre-Dame Cathedral remains a powerful symbol of Paris. You can admire it from the outside and explore the surrounding Île de la Cité, a small island in the Seine that’s home to some of the oldest parts of the city. Nearby, visit the Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic chapel with jaw-dropping stained glass windows.
5. Wander through the Louvre
Even if you’re not a “museum person,” the Louvre is a must. Home to thousands of artworks, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory, it’s the largest art museum in the world. The building itself is a masterpiece, with grand corridors, marble staircases, and a striking glass pyramid.
6. Eat your way through a Parisian market
Paris markets are vibrant and full of flavour. From flaky pastries to fresh cheeses, you’ll find the best of French produce and street food. Head to the Marché Bastille, Marché des Enfants Rouges (the city’s oldest covered market), or Rue Cler for a culinary adventure.
What to try: A crusty baguette, a wedge of brie, and a bottle of Bordeaux. Voilà—picnic perfection.
7. Visit the Musée d’Orsay
If you love Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, this former train station turned museum is your dream come true. The Musée d’Orsay houses works by Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, and Renoir. The building itself is gorgeous, with its giant clock faces offering a whimsical view over the Seine.
8. Sip coffee at a classic Parisian café
There’s an art to doing nothing in Paris, and cafés are the perfect place to master it. Order a café crème, find a seat on the terrace, and watch the world go by. Iconic spots include Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, and Le Select in Montparnasse.
10. Explore Le Marais
Trendy yet historic, the Marais is one of Paris’s most fascinating neighbourhoods. Cobblestone streets meet chic boutiques, falafel joints, art galleries, and the Musée Picasso. It’s also home to the city’s Jewish Quarter and LGBTQ+ community.
Don’t miss: Place des Vosges—Paris’s oldest planned square and one of its prettiest.
11. Watch the sunset from the Arc de Triomphe
If you’d prefer to skip the Eiffel Tower queues then climb the Arc de Triomphe instead. From the top, you’ll get a 360-degree view of the city, with the Champs-Élysées stretching out before you and the Eiffel Tower in perfect position for golden hour photos.
12. Treat yourself to a French pastry (or twelve)
You can’t leave Paris without indulging in the baked goods. Croissants, pain au chocolat, éclairs, macarons, the city is a sugar-lover’s dream. Head to famous patisseries like Pierre Hermé, Du Pain et des Idées, or Stohrer, the oldest patisserie in Paris.
Local tip: Order “un croissant au beurre” for the best version.
Paris is a city that rewards both planning and spontaneity. You’ll find beauty in the grand monuments and in the tiniest details, a flaky pastry, a flickering streetlamp, the sound of an accordion in the metro. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always something new to discover.
So grab your camera, put on your most comfortable shoes, and fall in love with Paris, one arrondissement at a time.
