Places to Visit in Paris

Map of Paris Attractions

For better orientation, we’ve marked all the top attractions in Paris on a map. You can also download our detailed map of the best places to visit in Paris.

Download our map of Paris attractions

Top 5 Things to See in Paris

Paris is full of amazing places to visit, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems in Paris. But if you’re wondering what to see in Paris first, you definitely shouldn’t miss these five highlights:

#1 Eiffel Tower

What do you need to know? The Eiffel Tower is the most famous landmark in Paris and one of the most famous attractions in the world. Standing right by the Seine, it welcomes thousands of visitors every day. There are three levels with restaurants, viewing platforms, and exhibitions.

Is it worth it? Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must for anyone exploring the best places to visit in Paris. You don’t necessarily need to go to the top—the second floor already offers stunning views and the tickets are cheaper.

Our tip: It’s best to book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance on the official Eiffel Tower website to get the best price. If tickets are sold out there, you can also buy them on GetYourGuide or try your luck at the ticket counter.

#2 Basilica Sacré-Cœur

What do you need to know? The Basilica of Sacré-Cœur is a relatively young church in Paris, located in the artistic Montmartre district on top of the Montmartre hill. You can walk up or take the small funicular to reach it easily.

Is it worth it? Absolutely. The Sacré-Cœur is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Paris. The architecture is breathtaking, and the highlight is the free panoramic view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower.

Our tip: If time and budget allow, visit the dome and crypt for just a few euros. Tickets are available on site and it’s one of those things to see in Paris that’s really worth it.

#3 Notre-Dame Cathedral

What do you need to know? Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the oldest and most famous churches in France. Located in the historic heart of the city on the Île de la Cité, it was completely restored after the 2019 fire and reopened in December 2024.

Is it worth it? Definitely. Notre-Dame remains one of the top attractions in Paris and an essential part of the city’s history. The faithful restoration makes it one of the most fascinating places to visit in Paris today.

Important: Since reopening, you can only enter with a free time slot booked online in advance via the official Notre-Dame website.

#4 Arc de Triomphe

What do you need to know? The Arc de Triomphe is a grand monument from the Napoleonic era, standing proudly at the end of the Champs-Élysées. You can admire it from below or climb to the top for a 60-meter-high view over the city.

Is it worth it? Standing beneath the Arc de Triomphe is one of those unforgettable Paris moments. Whether you climb to the top is up to you. The ticket costs around 16 euros, and in addition to the view, you’ll also find a small museum inside.

Our tip: To skip the lines, we recommend buying your ticket online in advance. It’s quick, easy, and saves you a lot of waiting time.

Book your Arc de Triomphe ticket online

#5 Louvre

What do you need to know? The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum and a must if you’re looking for places to visit in Paris. Right on the Seine, it’s home not only to the Mona Lisa but to around 35,000 masterpieces.

Is it worth it? The Louvre is pure magic — every courtyard, every gallery feels like art. Seeing the great masters’ work in person is unforgettable. Just be ready for big crowds.

Our tip: Because it gets so busy, book a ticket online in advance. You can do this through the official Louvre site or via GetYourGuide.

Book your Louvre ticket via the official website
Book your Louvre timed-entrance ticket via GetYourGuide

Walks through Parisian Neighborhoods

There’s no better way to feel Paris than by wandering its neighborhoods. Here are **our favourite routes** and the most beautiful areas to explore among the best attractions in Paris.

#6 Montmartre

What do you need to know? Montmartre is the authentic artists’ quarter of Paris. Bistros sit beside studios, street artists and musicians pop up around almost every corner. The highlight? The Sacré-Cœur Basilica perched on the hill.

Is it worth it? Montmartre is our favourite Paris neighborhood. It’s easy to reach, incredibly varied, and the view from the hill is unbeatable — plus visiting here is free of charge!

Our route through Montmartre (45 minutes walking time):

• Blanche stop
• Moulin Rouge
• Place des Abbesses
• Le mur des je t’aime
• Place du Tertre
• Sacré-Cœur & Hill
• Blanche stop

This short route hits all the essentials in Montmartre. For a longer walk, check our full Montmartre article.

#7 Marais

What do you need to know? Marais is a very cool, trendy district with a village feel. Romantic alleys, small boutiques in pretty townhouses, plus parks and museums like the Picasso Museum and Centre Pompidou.

Is it worth it? Marais offers a refreshing contrast to the busy heart of Paris. You’ll almost forget you’re in a big city. And if you want to step inside one of the old houses, many are free — like Maison Victor Hugo.

Our route through the Marais (50-minute walk):

• Hôtel de Ville stop
• Hôtel de Ville
• Saint-Gervais Saint-Protais
• Maison de Victor Hugo
• Place des Vosges
• Marché des Enfants Rouges
• Square du Temple

#8 Pont Neuf to Jardin du Luxembourg

What do you need to know? Pont Neuf is Paris’ oldest bridge and a great starting point for a walk. From the 1st to the 6th arrondissement you’ll see varied sights, ending at the Jardin du Luxembourg.

Is it worth it? This walk is perfect if it’s your first time and you want to experience what to see in Paris on foot. Not too tiring, lots of cafés and photo spots along the way. You even pass the famous booksellers by the Seine!

Our route from Pont Neuf (30 minutes walking time):

• Pont Neuf
• Seine & Ile de la Cité
• Sainte Chapelle
• Notre Dame
• Pont Saint-Michel
• Bookstore – Shakespeare and Company with café
• Latin Quarter
• Panthéon
• Jardin du Luxembourg

Our tip: After this walk, you can hop on the metro at Odéon north of the Jardin du Luxembourg and give your feet a rest.

#9 Along the Seine

What do you need to know? Many of the top attractions in Paris sit along the Seine. So combining a walk by the river with sightseeing means you get the best of both worlds.

Is it worth it? Walking along the Seine gives you both the classic tourist views and the everyday Paris vibe. And you can make it as long or as short as you like.

Our route along the Seine (1 hour walking time):

• Eiffel Tower
• Berges de Seine (ideal if you’re travelling with kids)
• Pont Alexandre III
• Batobus shuttle boat (if you don’t feel like walking the whole way)
• Louvre
• Ile de la Cité with Notre Dame
• Hôtel de Ville

Our tip: The Batobus makes this route really flexible. Walk part of it, hop on the boat between piers, and enjoy the Seine from a different perspective. You can sail from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre if you like, or just take a short leg.

#10 Champs-Élysées

What do you need to know? The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is one of the world’s most famous luxury shopping streets. But you don’t need to buy anything — this is one of the best places to visit in Paris simply for the atmosphere and people-watching.

Is it worth it? If you have the time, definitely include the Champs-Élysées on your list of things to see in Paris. And you can combine this walk with one of the top attractions in Paris: the Arc de Triomphe.

Our route via the Champs-Élysées (45 minutes walking time):

• Concorde stop
• Place de la Concorde
• Galeries Lafayette Champs-Élysées
• Ladurée (try French macarons)
• Arc de Triomphe

#11 Canal St. Martin

What do you need to know? Around Canal St. Martin, you’ll blend in with locals. Charming boutiques and cafés edge the water, there are leafy spots to relax, and you’ll even find modern art in unexpected places.

Is it worth it? If you’ve already seen the main places to visit in Paris, this area feels like a hidden delight. Few tourists venture here — perfect for soaking up a gentle “Parisian vibe”, especially when the sun is out.

Our route along the Canal St. Martin (30-minute walk):

• République stop
• Along the Canal Saint-Martin to Rue de Récollets
• Sucre Glace ice cream parlor (the best ice cream in town)
• Artazart Gallery (bookshop and gallery in one)
• Rainbow crosswalk (cool photo motif!)
• Either walk back or take a train from Paris Est station

More Places to Visit in Paris

In addition to the top sights and pretty neighborhoods, Paris has a few other cool highlights that deserve a spot on your things to see in Paris list:

#12 Paris Catacombs

What do you need to know? Deep under Paris lies the famous ossuary — the catacombs. Millions of bones are arranged in eerie formations. You can visit daily; tickets sell out fast and are available both on site and online.

Is it worth it? The catacombs are not for the faint-hearted. But if you like something a bit darker and want to dive into the hidden history of Paris, this is a must-see attraction in Paris.

Our tip: Book your catacombs ticket in advance. It costs more, but you’ll save hours waiting and often get an audio guide or guided tour included.

Book your Catacombs special access tour via GetYourGuide

By the way: The catacombs are also a great choice when it rains in Paris. You can see a lot here without getting wet.

#13 Jardin du Luxembourg

What do you need to know? The Jardin du Luxembourg is a large park on the left bank of the Seine. Beautiful paths, fountains, greenhouses, an orangery, a bee garden, and many cafés and restaurants make this park a lovely place to relax. Entry is free.

Is it worth it? The Jardin du Luxembourg feels like a peaceful escape from the busy city and tall buildings. It’s one of the favorites among parents and kids: there’s a playground, a carousel, puppet theatre, and in summer you can rent small sailboats for the pond. Perfect if you’re touring Paris with family or need a break.

#14 Père Lachaise Cemetery

What do you need to know? Père Lachaise is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world and spans 44 hectares with over 70,000 graves. Celebrities like Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison are buried here. It’s easily reached by metro.

Is it worth it? If you want a different kind of sightseeing, this is a standout. The tombs, statues and mausoleums make for a powerful walk — something you won’t forget.

Our tip: In our Père Lachaise article you’ll find the best route so you don’t get lost and still see the most interesting graves and highlights.

#15 Panthéon

What do you need to know? The Panthéon used to be a church, but now it’s a memorial to France’s heroes and revolutionaries. Near the Jardin du Luxembourg. Tickets are sold online or on site.

Is it worth it? Its grand columns call to mind Roman or Greek temples. Inside you’ll find calm, grandeur, and a real sense of history. Figures like Marie Curie and Victor Hugo are buried here — definitely a place to see in Paris if you’re into architecture and legacy.

Our tip: Because the Panthéon is so close to the Jardin du Luxembourg, you can easily visit both in the same outing.

Book your Panthéon ticket online

#16 Opéra Garnier

What do you need to know? In the heart of the city, not far from the Louvre, stands the Opéra Garnier, where performances have taken place since 1875. You don’t have to see a show to enjoy it — you can tour the building yourself. Tickets are available online.

Is it worth it? Opéra Garnier is a gem often overshadowed by other Paris attractions. But the grand staircases, majestic halls, ornate sculptures, murals and abundant gold make it one of the most beautiful things to see in Paris — inside and out.

Book your Opéra Garnier tour via GetYourGuide

Book tickets for performances at the Opéra Garnier online

#17 Tour Montparnasse

What do you need to know? Tour Montparnasse is in the southern part of Paris. At 210 meters it’s the tallest skyscraper in the city. In just 38 seconds, a high-speed lift will take you up 56 floors to a roof terrace with sweeping views. Buy tickets in advance or on site.

Is it worth it? Montparnasse Tower is a superb viewpoint — one of the top attractions in Paris if you’re into views. The ticket is almost 20 €, a bit pricey, but it’s much less crowded than the Eiffel Tower. The fast ride up adds to the experience.

Our tip: Head to Café à 360 on the top floor — great drinks, nice view, perfect spot for a rest after the climb.

Book your Tour Montparnasse ticket online

#18 Invalides Dome

What do you need to know? The Invalides is close to the Eiffel Tower. What was once a church now holds Napoleon Bonaparte’s tomb in a splendid multi-layered sarcophagus. The site also houses the Army Museum. Admission usually includes both the cathedral and the museum.

Is it worth it? The Invalides Cathedral is a must for history lovers. Between Napoleon’s tomb, the museum collections, and the architecture, there’s plenty to see. If you visit one part, don’t skip the other — both are part of what makes Invalides a key place to visit in Paris.

Book your Invalides & Army Museum ticket via GetYourGuide

#19 Pont Alexandre III

What do you need to know? Pont Alexandre III is a late-19th-century bridge that spans the Seine close to the Grand Palais and Petit Palais.

Is it worth it? You can easily include the bridge in a walk along the Seine or detour there when visiting Grand or Petit Palais. It’s one of the most ornate and picture-perfect bridges in Paris — a top attraction in Paris for photos.

#20 Grand Palais & Petit Palais

What do you need to know? The Grand Palais and the Petit Palais face the Champs-Élysées. Both opened in 1900. Grand Palais hosts temporary exhibitions and fashion shows; Petit Palais is home to a free Museum of Fine Arts.

Is it worth it? Each palace has its own charm. The Grand Palais impresses with its vast glass roof; the Petit Palais offers elegance in a compact, refined space. Together they show off the opulent side of Paris when it was all about splendour.

Our tip: There’s a lovely garden and small café in the inner courtyard — a perfect summer break spot!

More Great Museums in Paris

Paris is a paradise for museum lovers. It feels like there’s a great museum on every corner. We particularly like these:

#21 Centre Pompidou

From 2025 to 2030, the Centre Pompidou will be completely closed for renovation work!

What do you need to know? The Centre Pompidou is in the Marais district. Here you can see works by Picasso, Warhol and Matisse, among others.

Is it worth it? We loved the Centre Pompidou! The inside-out building alone is a real eye-catcher among the neoclassical buildings around it. And the exhibition is also worth a visit. Fans of modern art will especially enjoy this place to see in Paris.

Our tip: be sure to check out the roof terrace with its great view!

#22 Musée d'Orsay

What do you need to know? The Musée d’Orsay sits right on the Seine and is nearly as famous as the Louvre. It displays paintings, sculptures, decorative arts and early photography from about 1848 to 1914, offering another iconic place to visit in Paris.

Is it worth it? Yes — the collection at Musée d’Orsay rivals that of the Louvre, and the building itself (a restored train station) is fascinating. Bonus: admission tends to be more affordable.

Our tip: It’s a popular alternative to the Louvre. Give yourself plenty of time and book your ticket online ahead if you can, to avoid long waits.

Book your Orsay Museum ticket via GetYourGuide

#23 Atelier des Lumières

What do you need to know? The Atelier des Lumières is just outside the city centre, near Père Lachaise. In a former iron foundry, artworks from various eras are projected on vast walls and floors — immersive art at its best.

Is it worth it? The mix of industrial character and lighting effects creates something very different from a typical art museum. If you enjoy art and light shows, this is one of the more unique things to see in Paris. You can also pair it with a visit to Père Lachaise.

Our tip: Tickets sell out on weekends. If you plan to go on a Saturday or Sunday, reserve online ahead of time.

Book your L’Atelier des Lumières ticket online

#24 Palais de Tokyo: Museum of Modern Art

What do you need to know? The Museum of Modern Art in the Palais de Tokyo focuses on contemporary art — paintings, sculptures, photographs — and is one of the standout museums among the many places to visit in Paris.

Is it worth it? Its permanent collection is free, which is always a plus. Even so, the exhibitions are fascinating, so it’s a top attraction in Paris for modern-art lovers.

#25 Musée du Quai Branly

What do you need to know? Near the Eiffel Tower, the Musée du Quai Branly celebrates non-European art. Its displays focus exclusively on art and cultural objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia, and the Americas.

Is it worth it? If you care about cross-cultural art and history, this is one of the things to see in Paris you shouldn’t skip. With thousands of objects from around the world, it offers a rich, different view of art and culture.

Our tip: If you have a Thalys train ticket, you may get a discount at the Quai Branly ticket office.

Book your Musée du Quai Branly ticket online

#26 Fondation Louis Vuitton

What do you need to know? The Fondation Louis Vuitton is one of the more recent museums in Paris. A private gallery funded by Louis Vuitton, it showcases works largely from the 20th century and newer.

Is it worth it? The architecture alone makes the trip worthwhile — the building is a landmark. And the collection inside makes it one of the best places to visit in Paris for modern-art fans.

Our tip: It’s a bit out of the way, but you can try combining a visit here with something nearby like the Arc de Triomphe.

Book your ticket for the Fondation Louis Vuitton via GetYourGuide

Top Attractions Near Paris

If you have more time in Paris, then we recommend a day trip. Two destinations near Paris are super popular:

#27 Palace of Versailles

What do you need to know? Versailles is a vast palace complex about 20 km southwest of Paris. Louis XIV once ruled from here. Today the palace, its gardens and the entire estate are open to visitors.

Is it worth it? Plan a full day for Versailles. But if you do, it’s absolutely one of the best places to visit in Paris’ surroundings. The grounds are extensive, and Marie Antoinette’s estate is a highlight.

Our tip: Versailles is always busy. That’s why booking tickets online ahead is the smarter move. Look for the combined pass that covers the whole complex.

Book Versailles combined ticket via GetYourGuide

#28 Disneyland® Paris

What do you need to know? Disneyland® Paris is a world-famous theme park west of Paris. There are film-inspired rides, the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, and countless attractions for children and adults. A visit to Disneyland is of course among memorable things to see near Paris.

Is it worth it? Disney makes both young and old happy. It really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Even years later, we still talk about it with enthusiasm: great rides, tasty treats, beloved characters everywhere.

Our tip: Start early, go back in the evening. When the magic is close, why not spend a full day there?

Book your park tickets now

General Tips for Sightseeing in Paris

Tip #1: Skip the busiest hours

In general, Paris’s top attractions are much quieter from Monday to Thursday than from Friday through Sunday.

Around **13:00** (lunchtime) is often a sweet spot. The early crowd has already moved on, and the latecomers are still at lunch. It’s not a foolproof trick, but it often helps.

Tip #2: Group nearby sights

When planning your itinerary, glance at a map and see **which of the Paris attractions are close together**. In the city centre, many of the highlights are just a few minutes apart. That can save you a ton of walking and time.

If you’re putting together a long weekend, take a look at our Paris programme for 3 days.

Tip #3: Free entry under 26

If you’re under 26 and hold a European ID or passport, many attractions offer **free admission**! Check each site’s official page for details.

Tip #4: Consider a special tour

Whether it’s your first time or a return trip, a guided tour can offer fresh perspectives and show you what to see in Paris in a new light.

We’ve compiled **11 special tours in Paris** — something for everyone. Whether you want an overview of the top attractions in Paris or a deeper dive into hidden spots, you’ll find a match.

Here are 3 classic options to get you started:

Private tour with a local guide

Evening exploration by vintage car

Highlights of Paris: 3-hour bike tour

Tip #5: Hop-on hop-off buses

If walking long distances isn’t your thing or you want a more relaxed sightseeing experience, the hop-on hop-off bus in Paris is a solid choice.

You can ride for **24 or 48 hours** and hop on or off whenever you like — perfect for mixing up walking and resting.

Read more about hop-on hop-off Paris

Is the Paris City Pass worth it?

Many cities now offer tourist passes that bundle transport and entry to **top attractions**. Paris has them too.

If you’re planning to see a lot of the city, a Paris Pass could save you both time and money.

**Our pick is the Paris Turbo Pass.** It covers many of the places to visit in Paris and lets you use public transport in the city.

Book the Paris Turbopass online

Learn more about Paris passes and options here:

These were our top tips for what to see in Paris

Have you got a favorite place to visit in Paris or a question about the city? Drop us a comment — we’d love to hear from you.