17 Things to Do in Paris, France

Paris is a destination that is both iconic and historic. Paris is the capital city of France and is known for its magnificent view from the top of the Eiffel Tower. There are art museums and historical buildings to explore, as well as cute cafes and restaurants to try out! The food is incomparable to any other place, as the croissants and tea are quite delicious. Listed below are 17 things to do in Paris, France!

17 Things to Do in Paris, France — Photo of me in front of the Notre Dame Cathedral in June of 2018

My Experience:

Favorite Places: I went to Paris in June of 2018, where I met new people and experienced a new culture. My favorite places in Paris were witnessing the view of the Eiffel Tower from the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck to enjoying a bottle of wine in front of the Eiffel Tower at night. Yes, you are allowed to drink alcohol in the streets of Paris. The other bucket list item that I got to knock off while in Paris was seeing the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum. I enjoyed going to different baristas and cafes because we got to people-watch, as most outdoor seating faces the street.

Expectations: A few things I did not expect when I arrived was that there was no air conditioning. The people smoked cigarettes on almost every corner. The culture shock was a certainty there as I explored Paris. I enjoyed wandering the streets of Paris and do recommend experiencing Paris for yourself.

Facts About Paris:

Paris was originally a Roman City called ‘Lutetia’
Paris is one of the most-visited cities in the world
The Arc de Triomphe took 30 years to complete
The Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum is the most viewed piece of art in the entire world

Tours to Book:

#1- Eiffel Tower

Visiting the Eiffel Tower at night is an experience you do not want to miss, as the tower lights up and looks stunning. Did you know? There are 1,665 steps to get to the top of the Eiffel Tower and on every floor, you will find a range of dining and gift-shop options. If you would like to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower, then purchase a ticket in person because it is cheaper than buying one online!

#2- Jardin des Tuileries

Jardin des Tuileries is a free public garden near the Louvre Museum. The garden was created in 1564 and became a public park after the French Revolution.

Address: 113, rue de Rivoli 75001 Paris, France

#3- Louvre Museum

I highly recommend visiting the world’s largest art museum, as the oil paintings are beautiful and unforgettable. The entrance is 9 euros and is open 9 am to 6 pm Monday-Friday. It is not open on Tuesdays.

Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France

#4- Musee d’Orsay

Visiting Musee d’Orsay is for you if you love art and architecture. This museum holds French art like paintings, sculptures, and photography. This museum is open from Tuesday until Saturday. The first Sunday of the month is free.

Address: 1 Rue de la Legion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France

#5- Notre Dame Cathedral

The Gothic Cathedral is temporarily closed. The Notre Dame Cathedral was burned to the ground on April 15th, 2019. The roof had been destroyed and its upper walls were severely damaged. I was lucky enough to see the Cathedral in June of 2017. They are rebuilding the cathedral and it is expected to be completed in 2024.

Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France

#6- Rue Cremieux

Why not stroll along one of the most colorful streets in Paris? This charming cobblestone street is one of the most popular places to take photos for Instagram in Paris.

Address: Rue Crémieux, 75012 Paris, France

#7- Catacombs

The Catacombs hold the remains of 6 million people in a small tunnel. The Catacombs are closed on Mondays and a ticket is $15.90 to visit.

Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris, France

#8- The Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is the most famous cabaret in France. The venue is iconic, and the show is spectacular.

Address: 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France

#9- Crazy Horse

The Crazy Horse is another cabaret in France that you can go and see for yourself!

Address: 12 Avenue George V, 75008 Paris, France

#10- Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck

Visit the Montparnasse for a view of Paris from a spectacular angle, as shown in the photo above. Address: Montparnasse, 75014 Paris, France

#11- Sacre Coeur

This Roman Catholic church is a famous monument that was built in 1919. This church is located at the highest point in the city and visiting is free.

Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France

#13- Montmartre

Montmartre is a historic district that goes uphill located in Northern Paris. Stroll along the streets and go shopping or try out different cafes and baristas while you are there. Montmartre is known for its artistic history, as Vincent Van Gough and Picasso have lived there.

Address: 12 Rue Cortot, Paris, IdF 75018

#14- Luxembourg Gardens

Visit Jardin Du Luxembourg or the Luxembourg Gardens to see famous statues of politicians, scientists, sculptors, artists, poets, composers, and painters. This garden was created in 1612.

Address: Rue de Vaugirard, Paris, Île-de-France 75006

#15- Les Invalides

Les Invalides has monuments and museums all relating to the military history of Paris, France and the architecture is stunning.

Address: Place des Invalides, 75007 Paris, France

#16- Cafe De Flore

If you are a Gossip Girl fan, visiting Cafe De Flore is a must! Seating in Paris faces the street at cafes and restaurants. People watching while enjoying your coffee is a relaxing experience you do not want to miss!

Address: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris, France

#17- Garden of Versailles

The Garden of Versailles is in front of a massive palace built by King Louis XIV. It was home to three generations of French kings and queens from 1682 until 1789. It is now a public garden closed on Mondays and costs 14 euros to enter.

Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France

Have you ever been to Paris? Please comment down below about your trip!