Top 60 Things to Do in Paris [with Tickets & Directions]

Paris, the city of lights and love, is a maze of culture, history and extraordinary architecture. Every street, square and neighborhood reveals a new chapter of Parisian charm and romance.

With over two thousand years of history manifesting itself in every corner, Paris proudly holds the title of one of the most fascinating cities in the world.

From iconic masterpieces like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to lesser-known but equally stunning gems like the Sainte-Chapelle or the hidden streets of Montmartre, Paris offers endless opportunities for discovery.

In this article, we present you the 60 best things to do in Paris. Whether you're a history buff, art connoisseur, foodie or just a passionate traveler, you're guaranteed to find fascinating places that will instantly capture your heart. 

1. Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is the unmistakable symbol of Paris and towers a proud 324 meters above the City of Light and Love. Almost 300 million people have visited it since it opened. This makes the "Iron Lady", as the Eiffel Tower is affectionately known, the most visited paid monument in the world.

Built by the renowned engineer Gustave Eiffel and his team to celebrate the 1889 Universal Exposition and the centenary of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower embodies the technological genius and artistic elegance of the late 19th century and for 44 years held the title as the tallest structure in the world inside.

The icon has a firm place in the history and culture not only of France but of the entire world and is present in every feature film shot in Paris, in every documentary and travelogue about the city.

A visit to Paris would not be complete without climbing the metal giant, or at least getting up close and personal with the majestic tower. Whether by day or in full light at night, its sight fascinates and enchants anew.

Nearest metro stations

Line 6: Station Bir-Hakeim and 7 minutes on foot

2. Louvre Museum

A jewel on the banks of the Seine in the heart of Paris, the Louvre Museum is one of the largest and most famous art museums in the world. With over 9 million visitors annually, it is also the world's most visited museum.

It houses an impressive collection of over 380,000 works of art, of which 35,000 are on permanent display. The collection includes works from different eras and cultures, including Egyptian, Greek and Roman antiquity as well as Western European art from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Among the best-known works are da Vinci's Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

An architectural masterpiece, the Louvre was originally built in the 12th century as a fortress and residence for the French kings before being turned into a museum in 1793. The entrance building in the form of a glass pyramid was only added in 1989 and has since symbolized the connection between history and modernity.

If you are an art lover, you absolutely must visit the Musée du Louvre and reserve a full day if possible, but at least a few hours.

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

The Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is located in the heart of the city on the Île de la Cité. It was completed in 1345 after almost 200 years of construction.

The impressive architecture of the cathedral, but above all its filigree rose windows enchant visitors from all over the world. It was one of the first places of worship to use cantilever buttress and rib vaulting techniques in its construction. Her famous gargoyles and grotesque sculptures are a real eye-catcher and stimulate the imagination of every viewer. 

Inside the majestic church, which has been a silent witness to many important historical events in France, you can admire the massive organ with its 8,000 pipes, the impressive choir stalls and the mighty transept. From the observation decks of the two towers, you have a wonderful view of downtown Paris.

An essential part of the French capital's cultural and historical heritage, the Notre Dame Cathedral is a magnet for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Nearest metro stations

Line M4: Saint-Michel/Notre-Dame or Cité stations and a 4-minute walk
Lines M1, M11: Hôtel de Ville station and a 6-minute walk
Line M10: Cluny La Sorbonne station and a 7-minute walk

4. Sacre Coeur Basilica & Montmartre

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

Towering majestically atop Montmartre, the city's highest point, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica is both an impressive religious and architectural landmark.

Construction of this Byzantine-Romanesque church began in 1875 as a sign of national repentance after the Franco-Prussian War and the Paris Commune and was completed in 1914. 

Sacré-Cœur, meaning Sacred Heart, is characterized by its stunning white façade. It owes its radiant white tint to the special Château-Landon stone, which becomes whiter and whiter with the effects of rain. With this striking appearance, the basilica is an unmistakable element of the Parisian skyline. 

The basilica got its name because it is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This love is manifested in the chorus through a huge Christ mosaic. The great organ and the crypt, which is one of the largest in the world, are also impressive.

Visitors can climb the 270 steps to the dome for spectacular 360-degree views of Paris. The largest church bell in France and the eighth largest in the world hangs in the bell tower, weighing over 18 tons.

Montmartre is the district of Paris dedicated to Bohemian life, art, dreams and fairy tales. Even after more than 2 millennia, the highest part of the city resembles a small village, which is characterized by winding cobbled streets and rustic houses.  

Many Paris tourists come here because the former village has lost none of its old charm and has many attractions that you will also like.

• By the way: The world-famous Moulin Rouge revue stage at Pigalle is located at the southern end of Montmartre. Check the best cabaret show ticket options, and buy your ticket in advance!

• For everything you need to know about the church and the Bohemian quarter, see our Sacré-Cœur Basilica and Montmartre articles.

Nearest metro stations

Line M7: Anvers station and a 7-minute walk
Line M12: Abbesses or Lamarck-Caulaincourt stations and an 8-minute walk
Line M4: Château Rouge station and a 10-minute walk 

5. Orsay Museum

Opposite the Tuileries Gardens, on the south bank of the Seine, the Musée d'Orsay was originally built as a train station and opened as such in 1900. The Paris-Orléans railway line ended here. 

The handsome building was converted into a museum in 1986 and has since housed an unrivaled selection of paintings and sculptures showing the emergence of modern art between 1848 and 1914. The collection begins where the Louvre ends.  

The main genre is Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, but there are also works of Academism, Symbolism, and Primitivism. Visitors can admire masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Matisse, Rodin and Degas. Alongside the paintings and sculptures, there are also photographs, furniture and other art forms from the same period on display. 

With its light-filled central atrium and stunning glass hall, the building's architecture is as impressive as the art it houses. The Musée d'Orsay is a true gem and a must for any art lover visiting Paris. 

Nearest metro stations

Line 12: Solférino station and 4 minutes walk 

6. Palace of Versailles

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

A stunning 17th-century masterpiece, the Palace of Versailles was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1979. The estate is one of France's most recognizable landmarks and a testament to the absolute monarchy of the Ancien Régime.

Versailles Palace was built during the reign of the Sun King Louis XIV. built and served as a royal residence until the French Revolution. 

Inside the castle, visitors can explore a number of sumptuous rooms and drawing rooms, including the famous Hall of Mirrors, an impressive gallery of 357 mirrors reflecting the opposite windows. 

The château is an important historical site as it was here that the Peace of Paris was signed in 1783, the proclamation of the German Empire in 1871 and the Treaty of Versailles in 1919 which ended the First World War. 

The attached Garden of Versailles is equally impressive. Spread over 800 hectares, it is known for its geometric patterns of flower beds, spacious avenues, spectacular fountains and ornate statues.

The garden also houses the Grand Trianon, a smaller palace that served as the king's private retreat, and the Petit Trianon, which belonged to Marie Antoinette.

Nearest metro stations

Palace of Versailles is outside of Paris and is not connected to the metro network.
Versailles-Château-Rive Gauche is the train station closest to the château, about a 15-minute walk away. You can reach it with the RER line C, which departs from the Paris stations of St-Michel, Musée d'Orsay, Invalides, Pont de l'Alma and Champs de Mars-Tour Eiffel, among others. The journey takes 25 to 45 minutes, depending on which station you leave from.

10. Hop On Hop Off Bus

Among city travelers, one of the most popular ways to get to know a foreign city is the hop-on hop-off sightseeing tour, where you can hop off at any stop during the tour and hop back on later at the same or any other stop.

In Paris, not only buses follow this principle, but also boats on the Seine. This offers you the opportunity to get to know the French capital from the comfort of your seat  on land and sea. And whenever you want to experience a sight up close, just hop off and continue later.

Apart from the fact that this way you will see more of the city than if you were to walk, it is also an ideal opportunity to meet people from other countries and exchange knowledge about the city during the trips. 

• Find out more about this way of getting to know a city in our Hop On Hop Off Paris article.
• Check out your Hop On Hop Off Paris ticket options online and book in advance.

11. Pantheon

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

The Panthéon is a former church converted into a mausoleum dedicated to great figures in French history. The Panthéon takes its name from the ancient Roman temple that paved the way for later domed structures.

King Louis XV had the church built in the 18th century and dedicated it to Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris. After its completion in 1790, during the French Revolution, the Revolutionary Assembly decided to turn it into a secular monument commemorating the great figures of national history.

A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, the walls inside the Panthéon are adorned with beautiful 19th and 20th century frescoes depicting important events in French history Earth rotation demonstrated. 

The crypt beneath the Panthéon houses the tombs of some of France's most distinguished thinkers, writers and scientists, including Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola and Marie Curie. 

Nearest metro stations

Lines M10: Cardinal Lemoine station and 5 minutes' walk
Line M7: Place Monge or Jussieu stations and 8 minutes' walk
Line M4: Saint-Michel/Notre-Dame station and 9 minutes' walk

12. Pere Lachaise Cemetery 

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

Pere Lachaise is the most famous cemetery in the world. King Louis XIV had it laid out in 1804 and dedicated it to Père (father) François de la Chaise, his father confessor.

Because the cemetery was far from the city center, the concessions were too expensive, and the predominantly Catholic society felt disturbed by the secular regulations, few people were buried here at the time. 

In later years, the local government wanted to stimulate interest in the cemetery. They relocated two iconic names in literature, Moliere and Jean de la Fontaine, to the unloved spot. The plan worked! Soon the remains of the tragic lovers Eloise and Abelard were buried along with 33,000 other people. 

Later, personalities such as the poet Oscar Wilde, the singer Edith Piaf, the composer Frédéric Chopin or the Doors frontman Jim Morrison found their final resting place. The tombs vary from plain stone slabs to impressive mausoleums and monumental sculptures, and tell the story of more than two centuries.

With its tree-lined avenues, wild flower gardens and countless birds, the cemetery offers a tranquil, almost pastoral atmosphere in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city. At the Père Lachaise, take a fascinating journey through history and culture.

Nearest metro stations

Lines M2, M3: Père Lachaise station and 1 minute walk
Line M2: Philippe Auguste station and 3 minutes walk
Line M3: Gambetta station and 2 minutes walk
Line M9: Voltaire or Buzenval stations and 10 minutes walk

13. Moulin Rouge

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

Opened in 1889, the Moulin Rouge with its red windmill is not only one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, it is also considered the birthplace of the legendary can-can.

An extravagant cabaret show with unbelievable choreographies, breathtaking costumes and glamorous showgirls is presented every evening in an opulent theater hall. 

If you like, you can crown your stay in Paris with an unforgettable revue in perhaps the most famous variety of theaters in the world with champagne or an evening meal.

Nearest metro stations

Line M2 Blanche station and 1 minute walk
Line M12 Pigalle station and 5 minutes walk
Line M13 Place de Clichy station and 5 minutes walk

14. Sainte Chapelle & Conciergerie

The Sainte-Chapelle, on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris, is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and, along with the Conciergerie, one of the oldest surviving structures of the Royal Palace.

Built in the 13th century under King Louis IX. and completed in 1248, it originally served to house the sacred relics of the Passion of Christ, including the famous crown of thorns.

The chapel is particularly impressive for its fascinating stained glass windows, which depict more than 1,000 biblical scenes from the Old and New Testaments. When the sun's rays hit the colorful windows, the interior is bathed in a magical light.

Although relatively small, the Sainte-Chapelle leaves a deep impression on its visitors. Its sheer  beauty and historical importance make it an essential stop for any visitor to Paris.

The Conciergerie, right next to the Sainte-Chapelle, is a significant site of French history and offers a deep insight into it.

It was part of the royal palace known as the Palais de la Cité before being converted into a prison during the time of the French Revolution, where ironically political prisoners such as royalty, including Marie Antoinette, were held before being sent to the guillotine were led. Today you can visit the Queen's former prison cell.

The Conciergerie also boasts remarkable Gothic architecture. The Hall of the Guards, one of the oldest surviving halls in Europe, is particularly impressive.

The clock tower on the northeast side of the building is worth seeing. The clock, installed in 1370, is one of the oldest public clocks in France and is an important example of medieval craftsmanship, testament to the technical skill and creativity of its creators. 

• Also read our article Île de la Cité.
• Check out the best Sainte-Chapelle ticket options online and book in advance.

Nearest metro stations

Line M4: Cité station and 2 minutes' walk each
Lines M1, M7, M11, M14: Châtelet station and 5 or 7 minutes' walk
Line M10: Cluny La Sorbonne station and 8 or 10 minutes' walk

15. Catacombs of Paris

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

This attraction takes you to the subterranean depths of the city. The Catacombs of Paris in the Montparnasse district have been open to the public since 1874.

They house the bones of around 6 million people, who were excavated from Paris cemeteries at the end of the 18th century due to a lack of space and artfully laid out in the tunnel of a former stone work.

A tour of the approximately two-kilometer accessible section of the catacombs allows you to see this extraordinary arrangement of skulls and bones and gain a unique, and perhaps slightly macabre, glimpse into the history of Paris.

• For everything you need to know about the underground burial site, see our  Paris Catacombs article.

Nearest metro stations

Lines M4, M6: Denfert Rochereau station and 2 minutes walk

16. Garnier Opera

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

Also known as the Palais Garnier, the Opéra Garnier was inaugurated in 1875 and is best known for its Beaux-Arts architecture. Built by the architect Charles Garnier, the opera house can accommodate more than 1,900 guests, who can attend mainly  classical opera and ballet performances.

On this occasion, visitors can also admire the magnificent interior of the Opéra Garnier, which impresses with its imposing staircase, rich gold decorations and the ceiling painting by Marc Chagall in the opera hall.

The fact that the Opéra Garnier, declared a historic monument in 1923, was the inspiration for the famous novel The Phantom of the Opera makes it all the more worth seeing.

You can visit the opera house all year round, just make sure you are in your smartest outfit. 

Nearest metro stations

Lines M3, M7, M8 Opéra station and 3 minutes walk

17. Hotel des Invalides

The Hôtel des Invalides, commonly known as Les Invalides, is an impressive complex built in the 17th century by order of King Louis XIV.

Originally it served as a home and hospital for aging and injured military veterans; a remarkable act of caring at a time when such facilities were rare.

Today, Les Invalides houses several museums and monuments related to France's military history. The Musée de l'Armée is one of the most important military museums in the world and houses one of the world's largest collections of military history.

You can also admire historical weapons and armor of war at the Musée des Plans-Reliefs and the Musée de l'Ordre de la Liberation.

Since 1840, Napoleon Bonaparte's remains have been kept in a red porphyry sarcophagus in the Dôme des Invalides, an impressive church topped by a golden dome and visible from afar.

The magnificent architecture and rich history make Les Invalides a very interesting destination of a Paris tour.

• Find out everything you need to know about what is perhaps the most famous street in the world in our article Army Museum & Tomb of Napoleon.

Nearest metro stations

Lines M4, M6, M12, M13: Montparnasse Hall station 1-2 and 4 minutes walk

20. Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes, the oldest botanical garden in Paris, stretches over 28 hectares and is a paradise for nature lovers and science buffs. Originally founded in 1626 as a royal medicinal herb garden, it has grown into an extensive collection of botanical species and a major research centre.

The "Garden of Plants" is home to several specialized gardens, including the Rose Garden, the Alpine Garden, and the remarkable Greenhouse, which displays an impressive collection of exotic plants from around the world. It also houses the  Natural History Museum, which is divided into several galleries for evolution, paleontology, botany, mineralogy, and geology.

Another highlight of the garden is the Ménagerie, the oldest active zoological garden in the world, which is home to a variety of animals including red pandas, orangutans and snow leopards. A refreshing urban retreat, the Jardin des Plantes is a fascinating center for scientific discovery.

Admission to the botanical garden and its facilities is free.

• Discover even more popular parks in Paris.

Nearest metro stations

The Jardin des Plantes has several entrances.

Main entrance Rue Cuvier 47, 57  
Lines M7, M10: Jussieu station and 5 minutes walk

Entrances at 36, 38, 40 rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire
Line M7: Stations Place Monge or Censier-Daubenton and 4 to 6 minutes walk

Entrances at 2, 8, 10, 18 rue Buffon and Place Valhubert
M5 line: Quai de La Rapée and 5 to 8 minutes' walk
M7 line: Censier-Daubenton station and 8 to 10 minutes' walk

21. Parc Asterix

Located about 35 kilometers north of Paris, Parc Astérix has been delighting fans of the comic heroes Asterix and Obelix since 1989, created by French author René Goscinny and illustrator Albert Uderzo. 

The theme park offers a variety of attractions geared towards both the younger visitors and those seeking thrills. It is divided into six themed areas based on different historical cultures and locations including Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, the Vikings and of course the Gallic village of Asterix and Obelix.

Reflecting the playful nature of the comic books, the humorous and lively main attractions include thrilling roller coasters, water slides, carousels, live shows and interactive experiences. Highlights include one of the fastest wooden roller coasters in the world, the Hinkelstein water ride, and dolphins and sea lions. 

Are you looking for a unique theme park experience on a sunny day? Then the Parc Astérix is an absolute must, especially if you have children with you...

• Read more about the theme park on the outskirts of Paris in our Parc Astérix article.
• Check out your Parc Astérix ticket options online and book in advance.

Nearest metro stations

Parc Astérix is not connected to the metro network. From Paris you have two cheap ways to get there. 

• The shuttle buses from FlixBus or BlaBlaCar go directly to the amusement park and back from the Paris Bercy Seine bus terminal. A ride takes about 70 minutes. The bus terminal can be reached by metro M6 to Quai de La Gare and 9 minutes' walk or by metro M14 and 13 minutes' walk.
• You can take the RER B train, for example, from Saint-Michel/Notre-Dame, Châtelet-Les Halles or Gare du Nord to the final station Charles de Gaulle Airport and take the park's own shuttle bus from there. The total travel time without changing trains is 65 to 75 minutes, depending on how you board at the stations mentioned above.

22. Aquarium de Paris - Cineaqua

The Aquarium de Paris, also known as Cinéaqua, is a spectacular underwater experience in the Trocadéro Gardens across the Seine from the Eiffel Tower and features a variety of marine life including more than 10,000 fish and invertebrates from around the world.

The aquarium extends over two levels over 3,500 square meters and includes a total of 43 tanks that represent the different ecosystems of the sea.

The main attractions include the tank with an impressive variety of shark species, as well as the touch tank, where visitors have the opportunity to touch rays and other sea creatures.

But Cinéaqua is not just an aquarium. It also houses two cinema halls that  show underwater-themed films.

• For more information on the Cinéaqua, see our Aquarium de Paris article.
• Check out your Aquarium de Paris ticket options online and book in advance.

Nearest metro stations

Line M9: Trocadéro or Iéna stations and a 5-minute walk
Line M6: Trocadéro station and a 5-minute walk

23. Atelier des Lumieres

The Atelier des Lumières, in English Atelier des Lichts, can not only come up with a  completely new look at art itself, but also with a very special kind of experience. 

Housed in a former foundry in the 11th arrondissement, it presents   masterpieces by different artists through larger than life and imposing video and light projections, most recently Van Gogh and Gustav Klimt. 

The spectacular spectacle, which allows visitors to immerse themselves in the works of art, attracts up to half a million people every year.

• You can find out more about the workshop of light in our article Atelier des Lumières.

Nearest metro stations

Line M3 station Rue Saint-Maur and 5 minutes walk
Line M9 stations Voltaire or Saint-Ambroise and 7 minutes walk
Line M2 station Père Lachaise and 8 minutes walk
Line M5 station Richard Lenoir and 10 minutes walk

24. Crazy Horse

In the heart of Paris lies the famous Cabaret Crazy Horse, a glittering icon of Parisian nightlife that has been delighting the city with its unique and artistic performances since 1951.

Known for its avant-garde and sensual shows, Crazy Horse places female beauty and grace at the center of its performances. Each show is a perfect composition of light, music and dance that creates a cozy and emotional atmosphere.

The club's interior is luxurious and intimate, which allows the audience to immerse themselves in the magic and elegance of the performances. Innovative lighting effects and projections are  used to stage the dancers in a spectacular way. 

• Read more about the French capital's revue houses in our article Cabaret in Paris.

Nearest metro stations

Line M9: Alma-Marceau station and a 2-minute walk
Line M1: George V station and a 10-minute walk

25. Grevin Museum

It's raining and you're looking for a place where you can still have a good time, with or without children? It doesn't always have to be Madame Tussauds!

Opened in 1882, the Musée Grevin in the heart of Paris is a wax museum where you can admire over 450 faithful wax figures of famous people, including French celebrities such as Napoleon, Edith Piaf, Joan of Arc and Emmanuel Macron, but also international stars such as Michael Jackson , Messi, Al Pacino, Queen Elizabeth and many more. 

One of the main attractions of the museum is the impressive light and music show. It is a visual and audio journey through the history of entertainment, from early cinema to modern technology.

• A rainy day doesn't have to spoil your mood! It is perfect for a museum visit. Or even two?... Here is our list of the 30 best museums in Paris.
• Check out your Wax Museum ticket options online and book in advance.

Nearest metro stations

Lines M8, M9: Grands Boulevards station and 1 minute walk
Line M3: Bourse station and 5 minutes walk
Line M7: Le Peletier station and 7 minutes walk
Line M12: Notre-Dame-de-Lorette station and 10 minutes walk

26. Place Vendôme 

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

A jewel of French classicism in the heart of Paris, Place Vendôme is a shining symbol of French luxury and sophistication.

It was commissioned by King Louis XIV in the late 17th century and was designed by the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart, who was also responsible for the Palace of Versailles.

The royal square for the upper class was conceived as a new and larger version of the Place de Vosges in the Marais. After the revolution, the statues were destroyed by King Louis XIV or taken to the Louvre. 

In the center of the square, Napoleon Bonaparte had a Roman-style victory column erected in 1806, decorated with reliefs made from the molten bronze of enemy cannons. He had the top crowned with a statue of himself. This was removed during the 1871 uprising, but later replaced with a copy for historical accuracy.

The octagonal shape is a masterpiece of urban design. World-famous jewellers, exclusive boutiques and luxury hotels are housed in the magnificent buildings around the square.

• Read more in our article The 7 most beautiful squares in Paris.

Nearest metro stations

Line M1: Tuileries station and a 6-minute walk
Lines M3, M7, M8: Opéra station and a 6-minute walk
Lines M8, M12, M14: Madeleine station and a 7-minute walk
Lines M7, M14: Pyramides station and a 7-minute walk

27. Center Pompidou

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

Known for its remarkable high-tech architecture, the Center Pompidou is an essential cultural hub in Paris. The building, designed by the architect team Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, opened in 1977 and was named after former French President Georges Pompidou. 

The distinctive façade is referred to by the French as a "pipeline". There's a good reason for that, because it has colorful outer tubes that represent different functions: blue for air, green for liquids, yellow for electricity, and red for transportation.

Within its walls, the futuristic building houses the Musée National d'Art Moderne, the largest modern art museum in Europe. The extensive collection includes works by Picasso, Kandinsky and Pollock, just to name a few. 

The Center Pompidou is also known for its public libraries and the IRCAM, a center for music research. A visit to the rooftop offers stunning views of Paris.

Around the museum, the neighborhood offers colorful street art and places to sit and chat with friends on a sunny day. 

• Check out the most popular Pompidou Center ticket options online and book in advance.
• Read more in our Center Pompidou article.
• A rainy day doesn't have to spoil your mood! It is perfect for a museum visit. Or even two?... Here is our list of the 30 best museums in Paris.

Nearest metro stations

Line M11: Rambuteau station and a 2-minute walk
Lines M1, M4, M7, M11, M14: Châtelet station and a 6-minute walk
Lines M8, M12, M14: Madeleine station and a 7-minute walk
Lines M7, M14: Pyramides station and a 7-minute walk

28. Luxembourg Palace & Garden

The Palais Luxemburg and the garden in front of it are located between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter.

In 1615, Marie de Medici, widow of the murdered King Henry IV, commissioned the architect Solomon de Brosse to build a palace on land she had bought from the Duke of Luxembourg, hence the name of the magnificent building with the impressive mix of French and Italian architecture.

Maria de' Medici soon had engineers and gardeners come from her hometown of Florence to have the large Italian-style garden laid out in front of the palace. The green should remind her of her childhood in Italy. 

Several members of the royal family resided in the palace until the French Revolution in 1789, when it was used first as an arms factory and then as a prison.

When Napoleon Bonaparte took power 10 years later, he also resided here before converting the palace into the seat of the French Senate, which it still is today.

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

In the mid-19th century, the statues of twenty French queens were placed in the 23-hectare garden, which has been altered over the years in a French style. Many great writers, from Victor Hugo to William Faulkner, have admired the park and written about it in their books. 

Here you can relax in one of the many chairs that are scattered around the central pond. Just let your mind wander and indulge in the French "Savoir-vivre", the art of simply enjoying life.

With its manicured lawns, flower beds, orangery, and apple orchard, the garden is also a popular spot for picnics and walks. For children there is a large playground, a marionette theater and pony rides. 

• Everything you need to know about the most beautiful green spaces in the French capital can be found in our article The 10 best parks and gardens in Paris.

Nearest metro stations

Lines M4, M10: Odeon station and 5 minutes walk 

29. Place des Vosges

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

The Place des Vosges in the Marais district is known as one of the oldest and most beautiful squares in the city. Built for royalty and high society in the early 17th century during the reign of King Henry IV, it marked the beginning of a new era in urban planning. 

With its symmetrical rows of red brick houses, green shutters and stone gables, all arranged around a central garden, the Place des Vosges embodies the ideal Parisian square. In the middle of the square, a well-kept public park invites you to linger. The arcades under the buildings that frame the square house a variety of art galleries, boutiques and restaurants. 

Many politicians, aristocrats, poets and artists lived and worked in Vosges Square, including the famous writer and politician Victor Hugo, whose house on the south-east corner of the is now a museum. A visit to the Place des Vosges is like stepping back in time and offering a breath of calm in the midst of bustling Paris.

• Read our article The 7 most beautiful squares in Paris on this topic.

Nearest metro stations

Lines M1, M5, M8: Bastille station and a 5-minute walk
Line M8: Chemin Vert station and a 5-minute walk
Line M1: Saint-Paul (Le Marais) station and a 7-minute walk

30. Pont Neuf

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

• Pin code

The Pont Neuf means New Bridge. Paradoxically, it is the oldest standing bridge in Paris. It was inaugurated in 1607 after almost 30 years of construction and connects the two banks of the Seine with the Île de la Cité, a small island in the middle of the river.

The bridge with its 12 arches and the distinctive semi-circular bastions represents the transition from the Middle Ages to modern times in terms of architecture and urban development. The wide surface of the 230-meter-long stone bridge was designed for carriages and pedestrians. 

Unlike the medieval bridges of Paris, no houses and shops were built on it because King Henry IV's plan . provided a wide view of the public space. In the middle of the bridge stands his equestrian statue, which is an identical copy of the original that was destroyed during the revolution.

The Pont Neuf is more than just a bridge. It is an important part of Parisian history and culture. Whether you're taking a romantic stroll, watching the sun go down, or just observing the hustle and bustle of the city, the New Bridge is an essential stop during your stay in Paris.

• For everything you need to know about the city's oldest bridge, see our Pont Neuf article. 
• Also read our article The 5 most famous bridges in Paris.

Nearest metro stations

Line M7: Pont Neuf station and a 1-minute walk
Line M1: Louvre-Rivoli station and a 5-minute walk
Line M4: Cité station and a 6-minute walk
Lines M1, M4, M11, M14: Châtelet station and a 6-minute walk
Line M10: Odéon station and a 10-minute walk

31. Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter on the left bank of the Seine is one of the oldest and liveliest neighborhoods in Paris. It became known as a center of learning as it is home to the famous Sorbonne University which has shaped the area since the 12th century.

Here, scholars originally communicated in Latin, giving the neighborhood its name. The Latin Quarter is famous for its maze of narrow, winding streets lined  with centuries-old buildings.

It is also a place of literature and philosophy, where famous writers such as Hemingway and Sartre spent their days.

The district is home to the majestic Saint-Séverin church, the impressive architecture of the Panthéon and the lively Saint-Michel district with its magnificent fountain. 

The Latin Quarter is also known for its bookshops, cafes, restaurants and lively markets such as Maubert Market. In the evenings, the streets come alive with music and lively discussions.