Paris is a city that never fails to enchant. Whether you’re strolling along the Seine River, admiring world-famous art, or indulging in delicious pastries at a sidewalk café, every moment in Paris feels like something out of a dream.
But with so many incredible sights, where should you go first? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of 15 must-see places in Paris, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems, that will make your trip absolutely unforgettable.
1. Eiffel Tower 🗼
📍 Location: Champ de Mars, 7th Arrondissement
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning for fewer crowds or at night for the light show
No visit to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower! Standing at 1,083 feet (330 meters) high, this world-famous landmark offers some of the best panoramic views of the city. You can admire it from the Trocadéro Gardens, take a picnic to Champ de Mars, or go up to one of its three observation decks for an unforgettable view.
💡 Fun Fact: The Eiffel Tower twinkles for five minutes every hour after sunset—pure magic!
2. The Louvre Museum 🎨
📍 Location: 1st Arrondissement
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds
The Louvre is the world’s largest and most visited art museum, housing over 35,000 pieces of art. The Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and The Winged Victory of Samothrace are just a few of the masterpieces waiting for you. Even if you’re short on time, the museum’s glass pyramid entrance and grand architecture are worth seeing!
💡 Pro Tip: The Louvre is free on the first Saturday of each month after 6 PM—perfect for budget travelers!
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral ⛪
📍 Location: Île de la Cité
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Expected reopening in December 2024 after restoration
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece, known for its stunning stained-glass windows, intricate sculptures, and breathtaking architecture. Unfortunately, after the devastating fire in 2019, it’s undergoing major restoration, but you can still admire its impressive façade from the outside.
💡 Don’t Miss: The nearby Shakespeare & Company bookstore, a legendary spot for book lovers!
4. Arc de Triomphe 🇫🇷
📍 Location: Place Charles de Gaulle, 8th Arrondissement
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Sunset for dreamy views of Paris
The Arc de Triomphe is a symbol of French history and resilience, standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Climb the 284 steps to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with one of the best panoramic views in Paris, including a perfect view down the Champs-Élysées.
💡 Pro Tip: Arrive at dusk to see the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
5. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica 🎨
📍 Location: 18th Arrondissement
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Morning for peaceful streets or sunset for magical views
Montmartre is the artsy, bohemian heart of Paris, once home to famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. At the top of the hill, you’ll find the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a stunning white-domed church with an unbeatable view of Paris.
💡 Must-Do: Wander through Place du Tertre, where local artists paint portraits and street musicians fill the air with music.
6. Champs-Élysées 🛍️
📍 Location: 8th Arrondissement
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Evening for a lively atmosphere
Known as “the world’s most beautiful avenue,” the Champs-Élysées is home to luxury boutiques, cafés, and historic theaters. Whether you’re window shopping at Louis Vuitton, grabbing a macaron at Ladurée, or just strolling under the tree-lined boulevard, it’s a must-visit!
💡 Pro Tip: Stop by Petit Palais (a hidden free museum!) if you need a cultural break.
7. Seine River Cruise
📍 Location: Various departure points
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Sunset for a romantic experience
A Seine River cruise is one of the most relaxing and beautiful ways to see Paris from a different perspective. You’ll pass by Notre-Dame, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and more, all while enjoying the gentle sway of the boat.
💡 Budget Option: Take the Batobus, a hop-on-hop-off riverboat, instead of a pricey tourist cruise!
8. Musée d’Orsay
📍 Location: 7th Arrondissement
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or Thursday nights for fewer crowds
Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is a dream for art lovers, featuring the largest collection of Impressionist art in the world. Here, you’ll find masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh.
💡 Pro Tip: Climb to the top floor for a view of Paris through the giant station clock!
9. Sainte-Chapelle
📍 Location: Île de la Cité
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Mid-morning for the best light through the stained glass
One of Paris’s most stunning hidden gems, Sainte-Chapelle is famous for its dazzling stained-glass windows that depict over 1,100 biblical scenes. When sunlight streams through, the entire chapel glows in hues of blue, red, and gold—a breathtaking sight!
💡 Worth It? 100% YES—this is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Paris!
10. Palace of Versailles
📍 Location: Just outside Paris (RER Train to Versailles)
⏰ Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds
If you have time for a day trip, the Palace of Versailles is a must-see. With golden halls, grand gardens, and the legendary Hall of Mirrors, this former royal palace is the definition of luxury and grandeur.
💡 Pro Tip: The gardens are free on most days—perfect for a budget-friendly trip!
More Amazing Places to See in Paris:
- Latin Quarter – Historic and lively with student cafés
- Pont Alexandre III – The most beautiful bridge in Paris
- Catacombs of Paris – A spooky underground adventure
- Pantheon – The resting place of France’s greatest minds
- Opéra Garnier – A stunning opera house
Final Thoughts: Your Paris Adventure Awaits!
Paris is a city filled with beauty, history, and magic at every corner. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or a month, there’s always something new to discover.
Which of these places are you most excited to visit? Let me know in the comments! 😊✈️🇫🇷
📌 Pin this for later & start planning your dream Paris trip! 📌
