Paris is a dream vacation for most people. There are so many historic Top Things To Do in Paris, France and beautiful things to see!Visiting Paris for the first time? Check out the top 7 places to visit in Paris that will absolutely make you fall in “Louvre” with the city!
If you’re lucky enough to be planning an amazing Paris vacation, you’re probably overwhelmed by all the choices. Wondering about the truly must-see places to visit in Paris? Here’s the seven places that should definitely be on your Paris bucket list.
1. The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. It was built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution and as the centerpiece of the 1889 World’s Fair. Over 300 meters tall and built in only two years, it’s one of the most amazing accomplishments in architectural history.
As a visitor to Paris, you can buy tickets to explore each of the three floors of the Eiffel Tower. Looking for a feeling of accomplishment? You can take the stairs all the way up to the top! Or if you want a leisurely tour you can take the elevator.
At the top, you’ll take in the most beautiful view in all of France. And you’ll be standing on top of history. It’s an experience that can’t be missed. Seeing the Eiffel Tower at night is also very special, so reserving a Paris vacation rental with a view of the monument will make for a truly unforgettable trip.
2. The Louvre
Even if you’re not a huge fan of art, The Louvre is an essential stop on your visit to Paris. The building itself is a feat of architecture, especially the famous pyramid that sits outside. But it’s what’s inside that really counts.
The Louvre is home to some of the most famous pieces of art in the world. The sculpture known as Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa can both be seen at The Louvre, along with hundreds of other famous masterpieces.
If you’re looking for the ultimate experience of The Louvre, get a guided tour. This ensures that you’ll get all the background and history and see all the most iconic pieces the museum has to offer.
3. Notre Dame Cathedral
In April tragedy struck Paris when a fire broke out at the historic Notre Dame Cathedral. The country has rallied together to begin repairs to one of the most famous houses of worship in Europe and reconstruction is underway.
Unfortunately, the Cathedral is currently closed for repairs. But that doesn’t mean it should come off your list of must-see places in Paris. While you won’t be able to see the stunning interior of the church, you’ll still be able to appreciate the extraordinary architecture.
You’ll also be able to take in the reconstruction efforts, which is a unique opportunity to see the landmark in the context of a specific point in time.
4. The Seine River
The Seine River is one of the most romantic places in the world. It’s also a spot that’s inspired writers and artists for generations.
Great American authors like Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ezra Pound, and Gertrude Stein all wrote along the banks of The Seine. Picasso, Manet, Monet, and Cezanne all painted along the Seine. It’s truly a place that stirs great emotion.
You can walk along the banks of the river, observe it from one of the many beautifully constructed bridges that cross it, or you can get right in by taking a scenic boat ride. Be sure to grab a bite and a cafe au lait at one of the many restaurants overlooking The Seine as well.
5. Musee d’Orsay
Paris has always been an epicenter of art and culture, so it makes sense that there are multiple museums on the list of must-see places to visit in Paris. If you think that visiting The Louvre gives you the full experience of Paris’s art offerings, you’re wrong! The Musee d’Orsay has even more masterpieces for your viewing pleasure.
The building, which is a work of art itself, was once a railway station. In 1900 it was converted to a museum and since then it has been home to the great artistic works of the late 19th and early 20th century.
The museum has large collections of art by some of Paris’s most famous artists including Monet, Manet, Picasso, Cezanne, and many more. The museum offers a unique look into the artistic history of Paris, making it an essential part of any Paris trip.
6. Palais Garnier
What’s a trip to Paris without a trip to the opera? Incomplete! For the full Paris experience, you’ll definitely need to visit Palais Garnier, Paris’s Opera House. You can take a guided or self-guided tour of the beautiful building, or you can get the full experience by taking in a show.
Periodically, the Palais Garnier also has exhibitions, which highlight the history of the building and the shows that have taken place there in the past.
A visit to the Palais Garnier encompasses all the must-have experiences during a Paris visit. You experience history, architecture, visual art, and entertainment all at the same place. And you get to dress up and experience the high life.
7. Luxembourg Gardens
Most of the must-visit locations in Paris are indoors, but visiting the Luxembourg Gardens lets you experience the amazing nature Paris has to offer.
The gardens spread over 25 hectares and are split into French style gardens and English style gardens. Between the two styles of gardens is a majestic man made pond and a geometric forest, populated with unique trees.
The gardens themselves are full of gorgeous and rare flowers, arranged in what can only be called feats of landscaping. And, of course, the gardens offer an artistic experience as well. There are over 100 statues scattered throughout the gardens as well as the famous Medici fountain.
The Luxembourg Gardens are the perfect way to enjoy a sunny Paris day and take in the beauty of France in all the ways you can.
More Places to Visit in Paris
These are only some of the amazing places to visit in Paris. Though these are the places you simply cannot miss, there are so many more amazing places to go and things to see in Paris.
If you’re looking for more places to add to your Paris bucket list, or some advice on how to plan the perfect trip, search for “France” on our website and check out all our expert advice.
