Paris has drawn travelers for centuries, and it’s easy to see why. Between iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and neighborhood cafés on every corner, the French capital rewards visitors who take their time. If you’re planning a trip, here are the best things to do in Paris to help you build an itinerary you’ll actually enjoy.
See the Eiffel Tower at Sunrise or Sunset
The Eiffel Tower is the obvious starting point, but timing your visit matters. Arriving early in the morning or just before sunset means shorter lines and softer light for photos. You can admire it from the Trocadéro gardens across the river, or book ahead to go up to the summit for sweeping views over the city. According to the official Eiffel Tower website, booking tickets online in advance is the most reliable way to avoid long queues.
Wander the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay
The Louvre is enormous, so it helps to pick a few galleries in advance rather than trying to see everything in one visit. For an easier pace, the Musée d’Orsay is smaller and houses one of the world’s finest Impressionist collections in a former train station. Both museums are detailed on the official Paris city website, including current hours and ticket information.
Explore Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Montmartre’s cobblestone streets, artist squares, and the white-domed Sacré-Cœur basilica make for one of the most atmospheric walks in Paris. Climb to the top of the hill for one of the best free views in the city, then wander the side streets for small galleries and bakeries away from the busiest tourist paths.
Stroll Along the Seine and Explore Le Marais
A walk along the Seine takes you past Notre-Dame, the bouquiniste booksellers, and several of the bridges that connect the city’s historic districts. Nearby, Le Marais mixes medieval architecture with independent boutiques, falafel stands, and some of the best people-watching in Paris. For deeper historical context, the Paris tourism office publishes self-guided walking routes through the neighborhood.
Day Trip to Versailles
If you have an extra day, the Palace of Versailles is an easy train ride from central Paris. The Hall of Mirrors and the sprawling gardens give a sense of scale that’s hard to appreciate from photos alone. Details on tickets, opening times, and getting there are available on the official Palace of Versailles site.
Planning Tips
Public transport in Paris is extensive and usually the easiest way to get around — the RATP publishes route maps and fares on its official transport site. Before you travel, it’s worth checking current entry requirements and any local guidance for France, since these can change.
Paris rewards travelers who mix the big landmarks with slower, unplanned moments — a coffee by the river, an unhurried museum visit, or simply getting a little lost in a new neighborhood. If you’re continuing your trip elsewhere in Europe, take a look at our guides to Italy and Spain for more inspiration, or browse all our Europe travel guides.