Paris is the capital city of France and is located in the northern central part of the country. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and is known for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Champs-Élysées.
The city is also famous for its delicious cuisine, stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you’re interested in art, fashion, history, or just soaking up the city’s unique atmosphere, Paris is a must-visit destination for many people.
- Eiffel Tower
- Musée d’Orsay
- The Louvre Museum
- Notre-Dame
- Sainte-Chapelle
- Montmartre
- Sacré-Cœur
- Champs-Élysées
- Ladurée
- Arc de Triomphe
- Palais Garnier
- Pont Alexandre III
- River Seine Boat Cruise
- La Mansion Rose
- Sinking Building
- Montparnasse Tower
- Moulin Rouge
- The Catacombs
- Le Marais
- Rue Crémieux
- Les Invalides
- Versailles
- Centre Pompidou
1. Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and a symbol of Paris. It was built between 1887 and 1889 as the entrance arch to the 1889 World’s Fair and was initially intended to be a temporary structure. However, its impressive design and technical prowess made it a lasting icon of Paris and France.
The tower stands at about 324 meters tall and was the tallest man-made structure in the world at the time of its completion. Today, the Eiffel Tower is a major tourist attraction, attracting millions of visitors every year who come to admire its beauty and take in the breath-taking views from its observation decks. In addition to being a tourist destination, the Eiffel Tower is also an important cultural and historic symbol of France and a testament to the country’s engineering prowess.
2. Musée d’Orsay
Musée d’Orsay is a world-famous museum located in Paris, France. It is housed in a former railway station (Gare d’Orsay) and is dedicated to the art of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum has a vast collection of French Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Degas, Renoir, Manet, Cézanne, and many others. In addition to paintings, the museum also has a comprehensive collection of sculptures, decorative arts, photography, and drawings.
Visitors to the Musée d’Orsay can also see the impressive architecture of the former railway station, including its large clock and high-vaulted ceilings. The Musée d’Orsay is one of the most visited museums in Paris and is a must-visit for anyone who loves art and history. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, the museum offers an unforgettable experience and a glimpse into the artistic heritage of France.
3. The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is a world-renowned art museum located in Paris, France. It is one of the largest and most famous museums in the world and is considered to be a symbol of French culture. The Louvre was originally built as a palace in the 12th century and has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries to become the museum it is today. The museum’s collection includes over 35,000 works of art, spanning from ancient civilizations to the 19th century.
Some of the most famous works of art housed in the Louvre include the “Mona Lisa” by Leonardo da Vinci, the “Venus de Milo” statue, and the “Liberty Leading the People” painting by Eugene Delacroix. In addition to its art collections, the Louvre is also known for its architecture, including the famous glass pyramid in its central courtyard designed by I. M. Pei.
The Louvre attracts millions of visitors each year and is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and history. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, the Louvre offers an unforgettable experience that is sure to leave you with a lasting impression.
4. Notre-Dame
Notre-Dame is a medieval cathedral located in the heart of Paris, France. It is one of the most famous and iconic landmarks of the city, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and religious significance.
Construction on Notre-Dame began in the 12th century and took over a century to complete. The cathedral is known for its large rose windows, flying buttresses, and intricate stone carvings. It is also home to numerous works of art, including the famous cathedral organ and the “North Rose Window”. Notre-Dame is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It has played a major role in the history of France and is one of the most visited tourist sites in the country. Unfortunately, in April 2019, Notre-Dame suffered significant damage in a devastating fire. Since then, there have been efforts underway to restore the cathedral to its former glory. Despite the damage, Notre-Dame remains an important symbol of the city and is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the human spirit.
5. Sainte-Chapelle
The Sainte-Chapelle is a medieval Gothic chapel located in Paris, France. It was built in the 13th century as a royal palace chapel and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate architecture. The Sainte-Chapelle is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in the world and is famous for its 15 large stained glass windows that cover the walls from floor to ceiling.
These windows depict scenes from the Bible and are considered some of the most beautiful and well-preserved examples of medieval stained glass in the world. In addition to its stained glass windows, the Sainte-Chapelle is also known for its impressive ribbed vaulting, delicate stone carvings, and soaring arches. It is a truly breath-taking sight and a must-visit for anyone interested in medieval architecture and history.
Despite its small size, the Sainte-Chapelle has a rich history and has played a role in many important events throughout the centuries. Today, it remains a popular tourist destination and is widely considered one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris.
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6. Montmartre
Montmartre is a historic neighbourhood located on a hill in the northern part of Paris, France. It is known for its picturesque streets, charming cafes, and breath-taking views of the city. Montmartre has a long and rich history, having been a centre of artistic and bohemian life in Paris for many years. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the neighbourhood was home to a vibrant community of artists, including painters, writers, and musicians.
Some of the most famous artists to have lived and worked in Montmartre include Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. Today, Montmartre is a popular tourist destination and is known for its charming streets lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants.
The neighbourhood is also home to the famous white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, which offers stunning views of the city. Visitors to Montmartre can also explore the charming winding streets and take in the local atmosphere, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting Paris.
7. Sacré-Cœur
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, commonly known as the Sacré-Cœur, is a Roman Catholic church located on the highest point of the city on Montmartre Hill in Paris, France. The basilica is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, known for its stunning architecture and breath-taking views of the city. The Sacré-Cœur was built in the late 19th century in response to the turmoil of the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune.
Its design combines elements of the Byzantine and Romanesque styles, creating a unique and striking appearance. The basilica is also known for its impressive dome, which rises to a height of over 300 feet and offers panoramic views of Paris. Inside the basilica, visitors can admire its stunning mosaics, stained glass windows, and intricate stone carvings. The church is also home to several works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and tapestries.
It also offers a peaceful refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city and provides a glimpse into the religious and cultural heritage of France.
8. Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is a famous avenue in Paris, France. It is one of the most famous streets in the world and is known for its grandeur and beauty. The avenue stretches from the Place de la Concorde in the east to the Arc de Triomphe in the west, and is lined with trees and iconic buildings, including theaters, cafes, and luxury shops.
The Champs-Élysées is also a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and is the site of many events and parades, including the famous Bastille Day military parade.
9. Ladurée
Ladurée is a French luxury bakery and sweets maker brand. It was founded in 1862 and is best known for its macarons, a type of almond meringue-based pastry. Ladurée has become synonymous with high-end patisseries and is recognized for its iconic pastel-coloured boxes and elegant packaging.
The company has several locations around the world, including in Paris, London, New York, and Tokyo, and is famous for its beautiful tea rooms and elegant interior design. In addition to macarons, Ladurée offers a variety of other sweets, including cakes, chocolates, and pastries, as well as a range of teas and coffees.
10. Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a monumental arch located in Paris, France, on the western end of the Champs-Élysées. It was built between 1806 and 1836 to commemorate the victories of Napoleon Bonaparte and the French army, and is one of the most famous landmarks in the city.
The arch stands at approximately 50 meters tall and is adorned with sculptures and inscriptions, including the names of major battles and the names of Generals who fought for France.
The arch also serves as the central point of the Étoile, a busy roundabout in Paris that is surrounded by 12 avenues. In addition to its historical significance, the Arc de Triomphe is also an important symbol of France’s national identity and is used as a backdrop for various ceremonies and events, such as Bastille Day military parades and the finish line of the Tour de France cycle race.
11. Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier is a stunning opera house located in Paris, France. It was built in the Second Empire style between 1861 and 1875 and is considered one of the finest examples of French architectural design. The Palais Garnier is renowned for its ornate and lavish interior, including its grand staircase, gold-leaf mouldings, and intricate ceiling frescoes. The opera house was designed by architect Charles Garnier and was originally intended to be a symbol of Paris’ cultural and artistic prestige.
Today, the Palais Garnier is home to the Opéra National de Paris and continues to host performances of opera, ballet, and classical music. In addition to its use as a performance venue, the Palais Garnier is also a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming from all over the world to admire its architectural beauty and rich history.
12. Pont Alexandre III
The Pont Alexandre III is a magnificent bridge in Paris, France, that spans the Seine River. It was built between 1896 and 1900 to commemorate the Franco-Russian Alliance and is named after Tsar Alexander III of Russia.
The Pont Alexandre III is widely regarded as one of the most ornate and beautiful bridges in the world and is considered a masterpiece of Art Nouveau design. The bridge features four massive gilded bronze sculptures, each representing a different aspect of French and Russian society, including Industry, Agriculture, Maritime Navigation, and Arts. The bridge also has two ornate lampposts and a central span that is decorated with cherubs and nautical motifs.
The Pont Alexandre III is a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais, and the Petit Palais, among other iconic Parisian landmarks. It is also used as a backdrop for many events and photo shoots, and is considered one of the most romantic spots in the city. The bridge is lit up at night and provides a beautiful spectacle for visitors and locals alike.
13. River Seine Boat Cruise
A river Seine boat cruise is a popular activity for tourists visiting Paris, France. The Seine River winds through the heart of the city and offers stunning views of many of Paris’ most famous landmarks, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Musée d’Orsay.
Cruises on the Seine River come in a variety of lengths, from one-hour sightseeing tours to dinner cruises that last several hours. Many of the boats used for river cruises are equipped with comfortable seating, panoramic windows, and open-air decks, allowing passengers to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of the city. River Seine cruises offer a unique perspective on Paris, and are a great way to experience the city’s beauty and charm from a different angle.
They are also a great opportunity to take photos, relax, and learn about the city’s history and architecture from a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Paris or a seasoned traveller, a river Seine boat cruise is a must-do activity for anyone looking to experience the magic of the city.
14. La Mansion Rose
La Mansion Rose has existed for quite some time! Before Montmartre was ever a part of Paris, mind you. Before January 1, 1860, Montmartre existed as a community unto itself. As part of Baron Haussmann’s efforts to unite Paris and organize it more effectively as a whole, it was later annexed to the city with neighbouring villages.
Parisians at the time opposed these changes strongly, but they soon learned to love everything Montmartre had to offer! A popular hangout for both artists and authors, the new 18th arrondissement saw the opening of several cafés, restaurants, cabarets, and theaters. Although La Mansion Rose has been open for well over a century, no one is certain of the precise year it was constructed.
However, it is known that the café has always served coffee and that it formerly served as a boarding house where local authors could dine affordably.
15. Sinking Building
The “Sinking Building” is likely a reference to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, a famous bell tower in Pisa, Italy. The tower is widely known for its distinctive tilt, which was caused by an unstable foundation and soil subsidence. The tower’s lean, which started during construction in the 12th century, has caused it to sink into the ground at an angle of approximately 4 degrees. Despite this, the tower has stood for over 800 years and remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in Italy.
The tower is also a popular spot for tourists to take photos, as the tilt of the tower creates a fun optical illusion. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of several historical landmarks in Pisa and is part of the larger Piazza del Duomo, which also includes the Pisa Cathedral and the Baptistery.
16. Montparnasse Tower
The Montparnasse Tower is a skyscraper located in the Montparnasse district of Paris, France. It was completed in 1973 and at the time of its construction, it was the tallest building in France, standing at 210 meters (689 feet) tall.
The tower is famous for its observatory deck, which provides panoramic views of the city of Paris, and for its distinctive design, which was considered controversial at the time of its construction due to its modernist style and its impact on the Parisian skyline. The building also houses offices, retail spaces, and a hotel. The Montparnasse Tower is a popular tourist attraction, attracting visitors from all over the world to see the views from the observatory deck and experience the unique architecture of the building.
17. Moulin Rouge
The Moulin Rouge is a cabaret in the Pigalle neighbourhood of Paris, France. It was established in 1889 and is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. The Moulin Rouge is known for its iconic red windmill on its roof and for being one of the birthplace’s of the can-can dance.
The cabaret has a rich history and has hosted many famous performers and artists over the years, including the French singer and actor Josephine Baker.The Moulin Rouge is also famous for its extravagant and elaborate stage shows, which feature dancing, singing, and acrobatics. These shows often feature elaborate costumes, bright lights, and elaborate sets, and are known for their over-the-top style and energy.
Today, the Moulin Rouge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris, and continues to draw crowds with its lively and entertaining shows.
18. The Catacombs
The Catacombs of Paris are a series of underground tunnels and caves that were used as a burial site for the remains of millions of Parisians from the late 18th century to the mid-19th century. The Catacombs were created as a solution to the overcrowding of cemeteries in the city and to address the health and sanitation problems caused by decaying bodies.
The bones were exhumed from cemeteries and relocated to the Catacombs, where they were arranged in decorative patterns along the walls of the tunnels. Today, the Catacombs are a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to explore the eerie and fascinating underworld of Paris.
Visitors can tour the tunnels and see the bones, as well as learn about the history of the Catacombs and the people who were buried there. The tour takes about 45 minutes to an hour and takes visitors through a portion of the extensive network of tunnels, which extends for over 200 miles beneath the city.
Visitors should note that the Catacombs are not for the faint of heart. The tour involves climbing down and walking through narrow, damp tunnels, and can be quite eerie and unsettling.
19. Le Marais
Le Marais is a neighbourhood in the 4th and 3rd arrondissements of Paris, France. It is located on the Right Bank of the Seine and is one of the oldest and most historic areas of the city. The neighbourhood is named after the marshy land that was once present in the area and has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.
Le Marais is a charming and eclectic neighbourhood that is known for its narrow, winding streets, its historic architecture, and its vibrant arts and cultural scene. The area is home to many historic buildings, including the beautiful Place des Vosges, which is considered one of the finest examples of 17th-century architecture in Paris, and the Hotel de Sully, a grand Renaissance-style mansion that is now a museum.
In recent years, Le Marais has become a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, thanks to its many art galleries, shops, cafes, and restaurants. The neighbourhood is also known for its LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere and is home to many gay bars and clubs. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or simply want to experience the unique character of one of Paris’ most charming neighbourhood’s, Le Marais is well worth a visit.
20. Rue Crémieux
Rue Crémieux is a street in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, France. It is known for its brightly coloured houses, which are painted in a range of pastel shades including pink, blue, yellow, and green. The street has become a popular tourist destination in recent years, attracting visitors who come to admire its charming and whimsical appearance. Rue Crémieux was built in the mid-19th century and was originally a working-class neighbourhood.
Today, the street is a mix of residential and commercial properties, and its vibrant houses have been restored and repainted over the years to maintain their colourful appearance. Visitors to Rue Crémieux can wander down the street and admire the brightly coloured buildings, or stop at one of the cafes or restaurants that line the street for a bite to eat. The street is located near the Gare de Lyon, one of Paris’ main train stations, making it easy to access by public transportation. If you’re looking for a charming and photogenic street in Paris, Rue Crémieux is well worth a visit.
21. Les Invalides
Les Invalides is a complex of buildings in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, France, that is primarily known for being the site of the Hotel National des Invalides, a museum and hospital for war veterans. The buildings were originally constructed in the 17th century as a retirement home for disabled soldiers and have since been expanded to include museums and monuments related to France’s military history.
Les Invalides is also the final resting place of several famous figures in French history, including Napoleon Bonaparte, who is buried in the Dôme des Invalides, a large gold-domed church within the complex. The church and the museums within Les Invalides are open to the public, and visitors can tour the site to learn about France’s military history and to see Napoleon’s tomb. In addition to its historical significance, Les Invalides is also known for its architecture, which is a mix of Baroque and neoclassical styles.
The buildings are set in expansive gardens and are surrounded by reflecting pools, making it a beautiful and peaceful place to visit in the heart of Paris.
22. Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a royal palace located in the Île-de-France region of France, about 20 kilometers southwest of Paris. The palace was originally built as a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII in the 17th century and was later expanded and renovated by his son, Louis XIV, into the grand palace that stands today.
The palace is famous for its opulent architecture and ornate decorations, which reflect the grandeur and wealth of the French monarchy during the Baroque era.Versailles was the principal residence of the French monarchy from 1682 until the French Revolution in 1789, and it played a central role in the political and cultural life of France during this time.
Today, the palace is a museum and a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year. Visitors can tour the palace’s extensive grounds, including its beautiful gardens and fountains, as well as its ornate state apartments and the Hall of Mirrors, a grand ballroom that was used for royal functions and is now one of the most famous rooms in the palace.
23. Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is a modern art museum located in the 4th arrondissement of Paris, France. The museum is housed in a unique building that is easily recognizable for its bold, colorful exoskeleton structure, which is made of brightly coloured pipes and ducts that are visible on the outside of the building.
The Centre Pompidou was designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers and opened in 1977. It is one of the largest modern and contemporary art museums in Europe and is home to an extensive collection of works by some of the most important artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, including Pablo Picasso, Joan Miró, Marcel Duchamp, and many others.
The Centre Pompidou is also known for its cultural and educational programs, which include exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and workshops. The museum also has a library and research centre, which is one of the largest centres for the study of modern and contemporary art in the world.
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