All-Time Best
Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower
The symbol of Paris and France, this wrought-iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars offers breathtaking views of the city. Built for the 1889 World's Fair, it remains the most visited paid monument in the world.
Highlights
- Summit Observation Deck
- Jules Verne Restaurant
- Champ de Mars Gardens
Louvre Museum
Louvre Museum
The world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris, home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other masterpieces. Housed in the Louvre Palace, its iconic glass pyramid entrance is a modern landmark.
Highlights
- Mona Lisa
- Venus de Milo
- Glass Pyramid
Musée d'Orsay
Musée d'Orsay
Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, this museum holds the world's largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces. Visitors can admire works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir.
Highlights
- Impressionist Gallery
- The Great Clock
- Van Gogh's Self-Portrait
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral
A masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, famous for its flying buttresses, gargoyles, and stunning stained glass windows. Located on the Île de la Cité, it is the symbolic heart of Paris.
Highlights
- Rose Windows
- The Towers
- Archeological Crypt
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Perched atop the butte Montmartre, the highest point in the city, this Roman Catholic church offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris. Its white travertine stone shines brightly against the sky.
Highlights
- Panoramic Dome View
- Mosaic of Christ in Glory
- Savoyarde Bell
Palace of Versailles
Palace of Versailles
The opulent former royal residence of Louis XIV, famous for its Hall of Mirrors and vast, manicured gardens. A short train ride from Paris, it is a magnificent symbol of the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime.
Highlights
- Hall of Mirrors
- Royal Gardens
- Grand Trianon
Arc de Triomphe
Arc de Triomphe
The iconic triumphal arch honoring those who fought for France, standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the twelve radiating avenues of Paris.
Highlights
- Panoramic Rooftop
- Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- Eternal Flame
Montmartre
Montmartre
A historic hilltop district known for its artistic history, winding cobblestone streets, and bohemian atmosphere. Once home to Picasso and Dalí, it retains a village-like charm within the city.
Highlights
- Place du Tertre
- Moulin Rouge
- Le Mur des Je t'aime
Luxembourg Gardens
Luxembourg Gardens
Created in 1612 by Marie de' Medici, this 23-hectare park is a favorite among Parisians for relaxation. It features beautiful lawns, tree-lined promenades, the Medici Fountain, and the Luxembourg Palace.
Highlights
- Medici Fountain
- Luxembourg Palace
- Toy Sailboats
Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle
A stunning 13th-century Gothic chapel renowned for its extraordinary stained glass windows, comprising 1,113 panels depicting biblical scenes that create a breathtaking kaleidoscope of color when sunlight streams through.
Highlights
- Stained Glass Windows
- Crown of Thorns Reliquary
- Upper Chapel
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan for at least 3-4 days to see the major highlights like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, but 5-7 days allows you to explore neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais at a leisurely pace.
The best times are spring (April-June) and fall (September-November) when the weather is mild and crowds are manageable. Summers can be hot and crowded, while winter offers lower prices and festive lights.
Paris can be expensive, but you can save money by walking, using the efficient Metro system, and eating at bakeries or local bistros. Many museums offer free entry on the first Sunday of the month.
While it's polite to learn basic greetings like 'Bonjour' and 'Merci', most people in the tourism industry speak English. However, making an effort to speak French is always appreciated.
Paris is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like the Metro and around major landmarks.