luxury places to visit in paris

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

Products are independently selected by our editors. We may earn an affiliate commission from links.

The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide, as Curated by Vogue Editors—Just in Time for Vogue World: Paris

By Elise Taylor

See all of Vogue’s coverage from Vogue World 2024 in Paris here!

There are plenty of Paris travel guides in existence: France, after all, is the most-visited country in the world, and its capital city is the main reason why: with world-class museums, wide open boulevards, Belle Epoque architecture, and distinct cuisine, it’s known not just as the cultural capital of Europe, but perhaps the world.

Yet it’s not just the reality of Paris that draws you in—it’s the fantasy. The City of Light, after all, has been romanticized for most of us since birth, in books by Victor Hugo and Ernest Hemingway, movies like An American in Paris and Moulin Rouge , and through photographers like Brassaï and Henri Cartier Bresson.

And while the majority of travelers know the iconic tourist spots of Paris—the Eiffel Tower! The Louvre! Notre Dame!—the spots that encompass the soul of the city that so many of us seek are harder to find. With that in mind, Vogue asked its editors where they stay eat, shop, and visit across the arrondissements.

Some answers are for the classicists—you can’t go wrong enjoying an evening of soufflé and a night at the ballet. Others are for those seeking alternative activities, from five Euro dumplings to vintage shops that will “make you look Emmanuelle Seigner straight out of Frantic ,” as one fashion writer puts it. (Speaking of vintage: we have a whole guide to the city’s best vintage stores, here. )

Below, find Vogue ’s Paris travel guide.

Where to Stay

​​“The feel is 1930s meets 1970s, cool elegance with a bit of grooviness,” Vogue wrote of the new Cheval Blanc Paris, which opened this September. The five-star hotel, which is owned by LVMH, boasts four restaurants, a Dior spa, and grand suites with stunning views of the Seine. —Elise Taylor, living writer

Hotel Duc De Saint Simon is the perfect, petit hotel with all the elegant chintz you want tucked in a perfect little courtyard in the 6eme. —Chloe Malle, contributing editor

The Bulgari feels more like a discreet modernist apartment building than its enormous neighbors, and would be preferable for anyone who prefers their room service menu Italian rather than French. The hotel gym (with pool and spa) is one of the best in the city. —Mark Guiducci, creative editorial director

By sheer luck and her connections, my friend got us a stay at this ultra-luxurious hotel. You feel like a celebrity as soon as you walk through its doors. The service was impeccable, and the rooms evoke classic French luxury. Some of the rooms have balconies looking onto the Eiffel Tower. What more could you ask for? —Christian Allaire, fashion and style writer

With spacious, Parisian apartment-style suites and elegant marble bathrooms, Hôtel Elysia is built for a comfortable night's sleep. Rooms on the top floor are so incredibly quiet, you'll forget you're a stone's throw away from the Champs-Élysées. —Jasmine Contomichalos, senior experiences editor

On the middle of Avenue Kléber in the 16th arrondissement is the romantic and five-star Hotel Raphael. The interiors are adorned in a mixture of Louis XVI and Belle Epoque decor, creating an all-encompassing aura of grandeur that can only exist in Paris. —Elise Taylor

The former Louvre Post Office now houses Madame Rêve, a hotel that opened in fall 2021. Its 82 rooms offer stunning views over the city, and from the roof (where sunrise yoga sessions take place), you can see the Eiffel Tower. The interior design scheme—a soothing combination of goldenrod yellow, burgundy, and wood—extends into the downstairs restaurant and cocktail bar, where the feeling is cozy even with the chandeliers and high ceilings. The hotel is ideally located near the Louvre and an easy walk into the Marais. For breakfast, pick up pastries a couple of blocks away at Stohrer, a patisserie that’s been around since 1730. —Ella Riley Adams, contributor

Martin Brudnizki designed this fashionably maximalist hotel in Le Marais, where each room comes with a tapestry-covered bed, and closets are lined with lobster and paisley print wallpaper. (The indoor pool, with its painted ceiling, is among the most beautiful I’ve seen.) Make sure to book a dinner at Boulabe, which is helmed by Michelin-starred Chef Assaf Granit. —Elise Taylor

In Pigalle is the new Soho House, set over five floors in a 19th-century apartment building that once was home to artist Jean Cocteau. While so much of Paris celebrates its grandiose architectural history, the Soho House takes a different approach, basing its design off of the playful work of Jean Royere and Santo Sospir, Cocteau's colorful villa in Cap de Ferrat. —Elise Taylor

It is pretty easy to fall in love with Château Voltaire , the newish and gorgeously appointed hotel on Paris’s Rue St. Roch, and within glass-shattering distance of a soprano’s aria at the Opera Garnier. —Mark Holgate, fashion features director

The Ritz Paris is one of the most famous hotels in the world—if not the most famous. And with good reason: stepping inside is like stepping inside another, grander era, with its Louis XV furnishings, rare books, canopied beds, and gilded chandeliers. Afternoon tea at Salon Proust is a must, as is a drink at the famed Bar Hemingway. —Elise Taylor

19 Avenue Kléber in the 16th has lived many lives: First, it once belonged to Queen Isabella II of Spain, who resided there after her exile. Then, it became Hotel Majestic, where George Gershwin wrote An American in Paris, before becoming the Ministry of Defense. Its latest journey? Housing the Peninsula Paris, which honors its history-rich atmosphere while embracing modern touches. When I stayed there this summer, I was in awe of the efficient amenities and services—an in-room iPad allows you to submit an array of requests that will be executed within minutes—as well as the romantic lodgings: Every morning, I could open my window to gaze upon a Beau Arts balcony. It’s perfect for the traveler in need of all the modern bells and whistles, but who still wants to indulge in the old-school Paris fantasy. —Elise Taylor

Situated on a quiet corner in the 2nd arrondissement, Hotel du Sentier feels like your home away from home. The understated yet utterly chic interiors make every room feel bright and airy. Of course, the sweeping views of the city’s skyline don't hurt either. On the first floor, a bistro serves traditional French fare from dawn to dusk—meaning that sourcing an oat milk latte or a bottle of Sancerre couldn't be more convenient. —Elisée Browchuk, experiences, production, and marketing manager

Saint James Paris in the 16th was absolute heaven on earth on a recent visit, which I wrote about here —a perfect calm counterpoint to the rest of the bustling and busy city. And its Michelin-starred restaurant, Bellefuille, shouldn't be missed (whether you're staying here or somewhere else in Paris). —Corey Seymour, senior editor

This hotel, which opened last year, is just a short stroll from the beautiful Boulevard Saint-Germain, in the 6th arrondissement. The quaint, 34-room hotel is perfect for those looking for quiet charm. The stylish, tastefully decorated rooms will have you feeling like you’re visiting a stylish local’s apartment. —Christian Allaire, senior fashion and style writer

Tucked behind the Luxembourg Gardens in the heart of St Germain des Pres, this really is a hotel for serious travelers. With Fabrizio Casiraghi’s elegant interiors in sumptuous shades of cream and Diptyque toiletries, I was ready to move in. —Chloe Malle

I’m currently staying in a Blueground apartment on the Marche Saint Honore, and honestly? It’s perfect. –Mark Guiducci

Where to Eat: The Best Restaurants, Cafés & More

You can't go to Paris and not eat soufflé. Le Soufflé is an old-world kind of place tucked away on the Rue du Mont Thabor, which is a great street for restaurants. I like to go at lunch, when they have a special of starter salad, savory soufflé, and dessert soufflé. Decadent and delicious! —Nicole Phelps, global director of Vogue Runway

I had the perfect Parisian lunch with one of my best friends at Le Petit Lutetia, a brasserie by Jean-Louis Costes. Our definition of perfect, by the way? A place that serves a healthy pour of red wine and excellent steak frites, among a fashionable crowd that provides excellent people-watching. Elise Taylor

Chez Janou is your quintessential Parisian bistro. Go for the escargot but stay for the funky decor and the restaurant's lively staff who will treat you like family. My number one tip? Save room for the chocolate mousse. —Taylor Lashley, social media manager

There are few things I love more than afternoon tea—and given the sheer number of grande dame hotels in Paris, there are endless options for a truly spectacular high (or should I say haute ) tea. My personal pick? Le Jardin d’Hiver at Hôtel de Crillon. An oasis of calm just off the bustling Place de la Concorde, you could happily while away the best part of an afternoon tucking into lobster rolls and strawberry babas with mascarpone whipped cream, and people-watching as the hotel’s clientele wander through the leafy hidden courtyard beyond. (If it’s a warm summer’s day, make sure to go for the absurdly refreshing iced tea—it’s the best in Paris.) —Liam Hess, living editor

A restaurant on the Left Bank quay of the same name, Le Voltaire has kept high standards since it was converted from a former stables in the 19th century. Many of the tables are divided by carved wooden panels which recall its earlier equine function, and make it ideal for discreet conversation. —Mark Guiducci

Le Recamier is your must stop for soufflés and only soufflés! They don’t take reservations so it’s best to go for a latish lunch around 1:30 p.m. Go for a walk in the Jardin du Luxembourg and then have lunch at Recamier and then wander through Le Bon Marché, especially their incredible food hall La Grande Epicerie. —Chloe Malle

LVMH scion Antoine Arnault is a minority investor in Lapérouse, which should tell you all you need to know about the crowd at the Left Bank restaurant that takes up multiple gilded floors in an 18th-century mansion. Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time: the interiors are Belle Époque influenced, and dishes are served on Bernardaud china. Do a 10:30 p.m. reservation if you want to dine, as the place quickly descends into a party. —Elise Taylor

Lafayette’s, helmed by the famed Chef Mory Sacko, is located just steps from rue Saint Honoré and has quickly become one of the city’s most coveted reservations for a reason. Known for gathering a stylish crowd around the table, Moma Group’s latest venture transports you back to a bygone era and effortlessly combines the best of innovative cuisine with Parisian grandeur. I recommend ordering the Sole grillée with the French mac and cheese à la truffe, but everything on the menu will blow you away! -Vivienne Letalon, Experiences Associate

Girafe is one of Paris’s most iconic restaurants. The view of the Eiffel Tower is so close, it feels like you can almost touch it. Inside, minimalist decor meets traditional Paris style, creating an effortlessly cool modern ambiance. From the elevated menu to the elegant design, this restaurant should be top of your list. —Elisée Browchuk

What is a vegan to do in the land of excellent dairy? The original Marais juice bar now has outposts all over the city, and is a staple for any health nut visiting Paris. —Mark Guiducci

Nestled in the middle of the 2nd arrondissement, just off the Rue du Louvre, La Petite Bohème is the perfect stop between shows for a plate of manchego or a glass of Rioja. Don’t miss the patatas bravas, a specialty of the owner. —Chloe Malle

There’s simply no better place in town to get a macaron. —Elise Taylor

A trip to Paris isn't complete without an afternoon spent at Café de Flore. This picturesque establishment on the corner of Boulevard Saint Germain is perfect for spotting the latest street-style fashions and catching up with a friend over a light lunch. —Elisée Browchuk

The name of Clown Bar is quite literal: atop the bar are tiles of the circus performers, as well as a quintessential Art Nouveau-era painted ceiling. But rest assured the bistro, founded by chef Sota Atsumi, takes its culinary pursuits quite seriously. Order a natural wine and some tartare de boeuf. —Elise Taylor

Cafe Breizh is a sleek but unfussy creperie with excellent buckwheat crêpe complète. —Chloe Malle

Fromagerie Barthelemy and Marie-Anne Cantin are two spectacular cheese shops in the 7eme. There is heated debate as to which one is better but I feel it’s totally acceptable to patronize both. —Chloe Malle

I had never been to Paris before until this year but I randomly ended up staying next to the most amazing and low-key locally famed restaurant called Chez Prune! I love it there. They had this insane slab of beef that made me want to never give up meat. —Liana Satenstein, contributing editor

Le Bon Georges is a classic, quaint Parisian bistro in Pigalle. I'd tell you what to order—but the menu changes seasonally (everything is updated daily on a chalkboard) and they recommend you choose your meal around the wine. Who could argue with that? —Elise Taylor

Le Chateaubriand has the kind of unassuming interior you might associate with any number of brasseries in Paris, except that its stripped-down simplicity makes it just that little bit more hip. This is a place where it feels like very little (the waiters uniforms, or lack of, the decor) is getting in the way of the food, which is fresh, seasonal, and delightfully inventive. The food here is assured and interesting, and the restaurant feels like a scene without being pretentious or formal. For a final course we were mandated to eat the entire concoction in one bite—without being told what it was—a real adventure in a dish. -Chloe Schama, Senior Editor

My greatest weakness is Chinese food, so if I need a break from meat-heavy Gallic cuisine, I always head east to one of the amazing Sichuanese or Cantonese restaurants that line the Rue de Belleville outside the metro station. And for a quick pitstop, there’s nowhere better than Raviolis Nord-Est, just around the corner from Les Halles, where you can get a plate of 10 fresh dumplings for five euros, steamed or grilled to your liking. Another place I love is Les Enfants du Marché, situated in the bustling, must-visit Enfants Rouges covered market and offering elevated, Japanese-inflected riffs on classic French dishes. After that, all you need is some fresh cherries from one of the neighboring stalls for dessert, and you’re good to go. —Liam Hess

On a recent trip to Paris, my husband and I ate at Comice in the 16th—a neighborhood everyone kept telling me was an unlikely location for such a chic and assured restaurant. It honestly doesn’t matter; everything about Comice is perfect once you’re inside its doors. The tasting menu was a sequence of delights, with a finely choreographed set of wine pairings delivered with casual elan. Run by a French Canadian husband and wife team, this has the feel of a family restaurant elevated to the highest level. Everything was a delight. —Chloe Schama

This bespoke cocktail bar crafts unique drinks for every guest. Yes, even the ones that are always hard to please. Bisou mixologists create one-of-a-kind libations based on individual, in-the-moment cravings using the freshest ingredients. Á votre santé! —Elisee Browchuk

My choice is by no means a hot take (in fact, it’s a trendy choice). However, I can confidently say that I had one of the best meals of my life when having dinner at  Loulou Paris  last summer. As a first-time visitor to the city of light, this restaurant checked off all the boxes—incredible Eiffel Tower views, an idyllic Parisienne setting, and the dreamiest selection to feast upon. After many hors d’oeuvres, a few glasses of wine, and several helpings of fresh bread, my main course was the pipe rigate alla vodka. I know you're probably thinking, “But Concetta, it’s literally just rigatoni ala vodka,” I swear there’s something extra special and delicious about this one. —Concetta Ciarlo, associate manager of events

I stumbled upon Panda Panda with my colleague and friend Maya Layne on on our trip to Paris last summer after a late night on Canal Saint-Martin. We were ravenously hungry and the only place that was open and still had a table open was this place. We were so surprised when it was also the best meal we had our entire week in Paris. The dim sum and bao buns were super affordable for budget-friendly travelers like us. To ensure that the food was that good (and we didn’t just find it amazing because we were so hungry) we went back before we left Paris and we can assure that it passed the second round of our taste tests as well. —Irene Kim, Vogue Runway production and editorial coordinator

Ferdi is not your typical burger spot and that’s why I love it. For one, they only take reservations via text message. The restaurant space itself is so small that you’ll walk right by it if you’re not paying attention, and once inside you’ll find the walls around you filled with anything from stuffed animals to vintage toy cars. Still, there’s a reason why Kim Kardashians and other celebs claim it’s the best burger in Paris. Personally, it’s the special sauce they use that puts it in my number one spot. While famous for its burgers and fries, the churros are a must for dessert. —Taylor Lashley, social media manager

A friend and I visited this tasteful cabaret—where Beyoncé herself has shot a music video—and we were not disappointed. In fact, it was one of the highlights of our trip. The dancers, the choreography, the costumes—everything is sexy and fun, but elevated . (All the shoes worn on-stage are red-soled Christian Louboutins, no less.) —Christian Allaire

It’s depressing to be gluten-free in Paris. It felt like all the delicious croissants and people enjoying them were taunting me with their flaky, buttery-fingered joy—until I made a trip to the 6th’s Noglu bakery. They make the impossible happen: chocolate eclairs, Paris-Brest, and different types of croissants, all made in a 100 percent gluten-free facility so it's safe to overindulge in one of everything on the menu. -Margaux Anbouba, senior beauty editor

On a trip to Paris this summer, Vogue Runway’s local Parisian critic Amy Verner took me to Cafe Kitsuné at the Tuileries Gardens. I’ll admit that I’ve never felt tempted to stop by the cafe which also has a location in the West Village in New York—and has several storefronts in Paris as well—but Tuileries Gardens outpost was so quiet and relaxing. It felt very French to sit amongst the locals on one of those tables overlooking the garden. -Irene Kim

I’m obsessed with La Mutinerie, the Parisian queer-run feminist bar that’s committed to keeping prices low and door entry free (and making all bar-related decisions as a nonhierarchical collective; now that's what I call egalite! ) -Emma Specter, culture writer

Where to Shop

The art nouveau ceiling of Galeries Lafayette.

Located inside Dior’s recently opened flagship store on Montaigne Avenue, Maison Dior is a carefully curated extension of the heritage brand. A palette of red, black, and white hues inspired by the brand's archive set the tone in the dining room. Of course, each place setting is adorned with Maison Dior tableware along with mixed and matched houndstooth chairs. For a taste of Dior, this hits the spot. —Elisée Browchuk

Lovers of history, prettiness, and paper should make the trek to Antoinette de Poisson. The shop—and the hidden courtyard it’s located in—is an oasis where it seems like time stands still. The company preserves the art of making hand-printed domino papers, featuring floral and geometric patterns. Popular in the 18th century, these sheets were used to cover books and small boxes. Antoinette de Poisson offers the same, plus, perfume, wallpapers, and objects for the home and table—all of which come wrapped in an aura of historical romance. —Laird Borrelli-Persson, archive editor

For obvious reasons, Paris is a fashion lover’s paradise, but one of my favorite places to have a poke around is the historic Sennelier art supply store, a mere hop, skip, and a jump across the bridge from the Tuileries gardens. I may not be blessed with artistic talent, but after a trip to the Musée d’Orsay, I can pick up some handmade papers and their vibrant high-pigment oil pastels and briefly fancy myself as the next Degas. —Liam Hess

It's almost 200 years old, but your first trip to Deyrolle in the Seventh Arrondissement always feels like a great discovery: Part taxidermy shop, part cabinet of curiosities, part museum, part gift-and-garden shop, it's served as inspiration and fantastical wonderland for everyone from Breton, Dali, Damien Hirst, Sophie Calle, Wes Anderson, and a million others. Bring the kids. —Corey Seymour, senior editor

The most heavenly vintage jewelry shop with truly exquisite pieces from the big houses to the unsigned. It’s not for the faint of heart (or wallet) but even a window gaze is worth the time. —Daisy Shaw-Ellis

Michele Aragon is Aladdin's cave of eclectic and elegant homewares in the 6th, a must-stop for anyone who loves a kilim-covered armchair. Just down the street from Michele Aragon is Simrane, France’s original Indian block print exporter with every style of paisley tablecloth your tablescape could desire. —Chloe Malle

I love Pascale’s jewelry, and where better to buy the Parisian’s pieces than her own boutique on Rue Mont Thabor. Almost all of her jewelry whisks me away on vacation—the shells, the delicate gold pieces, the color. —Daisy Shaw-Ellis

I learned about this Black-owned beauty store from my good friend Julee Wilson Warhem—she goes here when in town to discover new and exciting brands that haven’t quite made it to the US, but founder Anne-Marie Mendy’s story is even more rousing. She founded the store in 2009 to provide a much-needed space for Paris’s women of color to shop for hair, skin, and makeup products. Their specialty is catering to the curly and coily community and the staff is on-hand for product help and advice. —Margaux Anbouba

As an avowed believer in the gospel of Driesus Christ, I’ll always make a stop at the Belgian designer’s flagship Paris store—even if I’m not flush enough to actually buy anything. Sitting in a prime position on the Left Bank just over from the Pont des Arts, and with the best-stocked selection of his print-clashing pieces you’ll find anywhere in the world, entering the space feels like stepping into van Noten’s brilliant mind. —Liam Hess

The best shopping place is called Nuovo. It is a tiny vintage shop full of hot girl clothes. Basically, the owner doesn’t curate by labels but by taste. The prices are great, too. I got the most amazing leather jacket from there that made me look like Emmanuelle Seigner straight out of Frantic. —Liana Satenstein

French girl fashion lovers look no further than Jeanne Damas’s flagship store, Rouje. I always manage to find one (or three!) floral dresses that quickly become wardrobe staples. —Eliseé Browchuk

If you're looking to do some home shopping in Paris and want an addition to the antique markets, I’d recommend Merci, an eclectic home store in the Marais district. I’ve known editors to build out their crockery collections over seasons of shows, and their glassware and linens are great, too. —Daisy Shaw-Ellis

Paris has an abundance of world-class department stores, including Le Bon Marche, La Samaritaine, and Printemps. I’d advise to go to all of them . But Galeries Lafayette will always hold a special place in my heart for its romantic steel-frame art nouveau glass dome by master Jacques Gruber, making it an architectural monument in its own right. —Elise Taylor

You're going to want to block out at least an hour for combing through this color-coded shop. Gorgeous Union-Made frocks rub shoulders with Chanel blazers (is there anything more chic than Chanel previously loved by French women?), and the collection of gloves in all shades and materials will convince you that evening gloves could probably be worn in the day after all. —Margaux Anbouba

What to Do: The Best Museums and Activities

The recently opened Pinault Collection is a must-visit upon every trip to Paris. Housed in the old bourse de commerce, a commodities trading facility, the grand building is the stately and impressive home to the unique collection of both established and emerging artists. The grand rotunda currently exhibiting an Urs Fischer work took my breath away. Plus, the Pinault is just a few steps from rue Saint Honoré, should you wish to do a bit of shopping post-visit. —Alexandra Michler, director of fashion initiatives

One of the great joys of Paris is its wealth of niche museums, and there’s nowhere greater—or more atmospheric—in that regard than the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature, the museum of hunting and nature that is tucked away in a spectacularly beautiful hôtel particulier in the heart of Le Marais. The deliciously macabre displays of taxidermy are a highlight, but the museum also manages to avoid feeling too fusty by bringing in contemporary artists to produce works in conversation with its collections, from Sterling Ruby to Jeff Koons. No matter how many times you go, there’s always something there to surprise you. —Liam Hess

The Musee d’Orsay. Always the Musee d’Orsay. —Elise Taylor

Of course, there are many sublime restaurants to visit in Paris, but I always save at least one meal for the bounty I find at one of the open-air markets. Parisians know how to source the best of everything—from vegetables to cheese to chocolates—and it’s a joy to feel like a local and gather goods for a picnic in the park or a home-cooked meal at your Airbnb. I recommend Marché Raspail in the 6th! —Mai Morsch

Walking around Paris is by far my favorite activity, other than eating of course. Strolling around different neighborhoods and looking into shops or stopping into museums is just the best. My favorite walk is around the Marais with a stop to refuel midday at Mariage Freres for tea. It's the most charming spot and they have all the greatest teas (and treats!) in the world. —Willow Lindley, accessories director

I love walking (and lounging) around Canal Saint-Martin, especially when the sun is out. Get a cappuccino at Ten Belles, and when hunger strikes stop by Du Pain et des Idées for one of their amazing escargot pastries. You’ll inevitably stumble upon other cute shops and restaurants as you go. —Ella Riley-Adams

Perched atop the Parisienne skyline is the magical Le Bristol Spa. It’s a serious treat and one I always look forward to indulging in at the end of couture week—especially for their all-natural Tata Harper skincare treatments. The famous rooftop pool resembles the interior of a yacht with teak decking and surrounding windows that offer a breathtaking 360 view of Sacré Coeur and the Eiffel Tower. The perfect way to fit in any sightseeing that you didn't manage on foot! —Laura Paterson, experiences director

There’s no shortage of museums in Paris, but after hitting the nearby Louvre, a stop at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs is also worthwhile. With an impressive array of antique to modern furniture (there are Louis XVI chairs and Charlotte Perriand shelves) and often marquee fashion exhibits. This upcoming, it's an examination of fashion in sports, in honor of the 2024 Olympics.—Elise Taylor

Surround yourself with beauty and attend a ballet performance at the Palais Garnier, the Parisian landmark that’s iconic and, well, very much deserves to be for its opulent, Napoleonic style. —Elise Taylor

This red-velvet and soft pink hair salon feels straight out of a Slim Aarons still. Washes happen in a Birth of Venus-like half shell, which includes an incredible scalp massage, and try a French girl’s balayage or blowout to see what all the low-maintenance, high-glamour fuss is about. —Margaux Anbouba

More Great Living Stories From Vogue

Meghan Markle Is Returning to Television

Is Art Deco Interior Design Roaring Back Into Style?

Kate Middleton and Prince William Share a Never-Before-Seen Wedding Picture

Sofia Richie Grainge Has GiveThe Prince and Princess of Wales Share a Never-Before-Seen Wedding Picturen Birth to Her First Child—And the Name Is…

The 10 Best Spas in the World

Never miss a Vogue moment and get unlimited digital access for just $2 $1 per month.

Vogue Daily

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Vogue. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The 23 best luxury hotels in Paris

By Lindsey Tramuta and Sandra Ramani

Between historic properties and brand new arrivals, the luxury hotel scene in Paris has never been more robust or diverse in style and service. Looking to step into 18th-century Paris? There's an exceptional property for you. Prefer contemporary design and state-of-the-art amenities? After serious quiet and world-class spa treatments? The choices are there – and plentiful. We've narrowed down the options to make it easier to find your dream spot. Read on for our picks for Paris's best luxury hotels.

La Réserve Paris - Hotel and Spa, Paris Arrow

La Réserve owner Michel Reybier had great success with his Geneva and Ramatuelle outposts. Yet there was general astonishment when, in 2015, La Réserve Paris sashayed into town, teaching the city’s grandes dames new tricks. It's the most beloved address in the French capital for fashion editors and the go-to for regular visitors to the city who want to feel like they’re staying in a private mansion, with just 40 rooms in a fine hôtel particulier designed by Baron Haussmann for Napoleon III’s half-brother the Duc de Morny in 1854. Its position, on a quiet, tree-lined street moments from the Place de la Concorde , is propitious. Then you cross the threshold and – ka-boom – it’s an explosion of colour and texture in the best way imaginable. There’s brocade taffeta, velvet drapes and silk wallpapers in the richest shades of emerald and ruby. No crevice has gone ungilded. This is somewhere you'll want to come back to time and again.

Address: La Réserve Paris, 42 Av. Gabriel, 75008 Paris, France

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, Paris Arrow

Like the Ritz, Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel is a case study in how to stay relevant in the 21st century. But while the Ritz carried on in the same splendid fashion as always, the Crillon blasted off in search of something new. The result is a fascinating postmodern triumph. In the end, the refurb took four years and the hotel reopened in 2017 under the Rosewood brand. The best of what was the best of the Crillon has been thoughtfully preserved, while the best of what is new (the bar, the barbershop, L’Ecrin restaurant, and the stupendous suites by Karl Lagerfeld) is gobsmacking in its boldness and daring. After a day out on the town, relax in the Les Ambassadeurs lounge, which draws see-and-be-seen Parisians with live music and a selection of over 100 Champagnes, or in the new spa, with its indoor heated pool and treatments inspired by the beauty secrets of French grandmothers and great-grandmothers. The Crillon has long been a sentimental favourite among the French. It's a splurge, but fans of French history and style or hotel junkies with a running list of global icons to check in to won't be disappointed.

Address: Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, 10, place de la Concorde; 75008 Paris, France

Ritz Paris Arrow

This is one of a small number of hotels so high and mighty they create their own weather system. Which made the ragging it got when it reopened in 2016, after a four-year revamp, all the more baffling. Some scoffed that it was a facsimile of its former self, smelling of fresh paint but virtually unchanged. But what exactly would have been gained if the Ritz had been remade in the image of a Nantucket shrimp shack or Buddhist monastery? It had stuck to its guns, and its critics were tilting at windmills. The Ritz remains, merci au bon Dieu, the Ritz, demonstrating that sometimes the most spectacular renovations are the least spectacular, though the hotel is as opulent today as at any time in its 122-year history. Yet even among the silks and tassels, a kind of democracy prevails. The smallest rooms are, by Parisian standards, generous, and differ from the mega-suites only in the scale, not the degree, of their sumptuousness. And it does not matter how rich, famous, or beautiful you are – the peerless Bar Hemingway still isn’t taking reservations.

Address: Ritz Paris, 15 Pl. Vendôme, 75001 Paris, France

Le Meurice, Paris Arrow

Ageless Le Meurice has always been tolerant of experimentation and eccentricity. No wonder it was Salvador Dalí’s favourite. Most of its suites, including the penthouse, Belle Étoile, have been redone in silk and velvet. Set just off the Tuileries Garden , the iconic spot – considered one of the first luxury hotels in the world when it opened in 1815 – has a long history with the art world, from hosting Picasso's wedding dinner to, most famously, serving as the Persistence of Memory painter's Parisian home for over three decades. When renovating the Dorchester Collection hotel in 2016, father-daughter design duo Philippe and Ara Starck looked to Dalí for whimsical inspiration, so you'll now find classic elements like stately columns, marble-topped tables, and copper-rimmed mirrors balanced by original Eero Saarinen Tulip chairs and portraits of 18th-century personalities traced on the backs of leather seats. If you value location, are interested in design, and appreciate service that puts a premium on privacy, Le Meurice is worth the splurge.

Address: Le Meurice, 228 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France

Hôtel Plaza Athénée, Dorchester Collection, Paris Arrow

Don't let the aura of sedate elegance fool you: there's always been a playfulness at the heart of this grande dame. Opened in 1913, with its signature red awnings facing the stately Avenue Montaigne, the Plaza Athénée has long had ties to the fashion world, from the days when Christian Dior named collections after the hotel, to its appearance in fashion-themed favourites like Sex and the City and The Devil Wears Prada. Decor-wise, that translates to classic, chandelier-heavy public spaces that give way to contemporary flashes, like the futuristic, chrome-covered banquettes of an Alain Ducasse restaurant, and the blue velvet-covered ceiling of Le Bar; and guest-wise, it means you're likely to spot some fashion editors and design house execs circling the lobby.

Address: Hôtel Plaza Athénée, 25 Av. Montaigne, 75008 Paris, France

Le Bristol, Paris Arrow

Yes, Le Bristol is grand – the polished marble, the Louis XVI armchairs, the boiserie -paneled walls – but it has never felt cold or stuffy. I tend to go for Paris Fashion Week, and any sense of froideur is eliminated with one stroke of Fa-raon, the fluffy white Burmese cat and unofficial hotel mascot (he’s since had a son and heir, called Socrate) – usually draped over the concierge’s desk. Le Bristol has had a stylish insouciance ever since it opened on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré in 1925, and it held on to its gilded soul after a six-year facelift that was unveiled in 2018 by its owners, the Oetker Collection. Suites are about chandeliers, Pierre Frey fabrics, and a very pure devotion to comfort. My favourites overlook the wonderfully serene enclosed garden by Arabella Lennox-Boyd, with its geometric lawns, fountains, and osmanthus topiaries. Eric Fréchon’s macaroni with black truffle and duck foie gras at three-Michelin-starred Epicure is a thing of wonder, but I’m as happy at Café Antonia, where the fashion crowd all seem to order the green bean, artichoke, and hazelnut salad. The spa by La Prairie does possibly the best massage in Paris, and I even love the quirky old pool, styled like a ‘20s cruise ship. It is wholly indicative of Le Bristol, which plays by its own timeless rules and is all the more elegant for it.

Address: Le Bristol, 112 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008 Paris, France

The Peninsula, Paris Arrow

After sitting empty for decades, a former 1908 hotel has been transformed into the first Parisian outpost for the Hong Kong-based Peninsula brand – and one of Paris’s newest Palace-grade hotels. Four years of work by a stable of skilled artisans has resulted in airy, refined public spaces, where a muted cream palette is accented by restored original wood, decorative stone work, and 40,000 pieces of gold leaf. And with five in-house dining venues, you hardly have the venture out: Standouts include LiLi, serving Cantonese cuisine (including a range of dim sum); the sixth-floor L’Oiseau Blanc, an indoor/outdoor French restaurant themed around the early days of aviation; and Le Bar Kleber, where original 1908 oak panelling, oversized mirrors, and terrace views set a sexy scene for cocktails.

Address: The Peninsula, 19 Av. Kléber, 75116 Paris, France

Shangri-La Hotel, Paris Arrow

In 1891, Prince Roland Bonaparte – grand-nephew to Napoleon – chose a prime setting near the Seine River to build an opulent palace, complete with an elaborate carved façade, a vaulted ceiling emblazoned with zodiac symbols, and a dramatic "Stairway of Honour" made from brass and forged steel. The cultured prince hosted many a lively gathering at his palace – a tradition of hospitality that was revived in 2010, with the opening of the Shangri-La Paris . Following a meticulous restoration, the landmark features a dome-topped marble entryway, original wood floors, stained glass windows, and hand-carved mahogany panels – plus that famous staircase. It's not just pretty, either: A favourite destination dining spot for locals, the hotel houses Shang Palace, the first Chinese restaurant in France to receive a Michelin star, and La Bauhinia, which serves an elegant East-meets-West menu (including a popular afternoon tea) under the central glass cupola.

Address: Shangri-La Hotel, 10 Av. d'Iéna, 75116 Paris, France

Hôtel Splendide Royal, Paris Arrow

Paris without the fuss. Hôtel Splendide Royal has old-world charm despite being brand-new – which means none of the fustiness of a traditional hotel that can't afford its upkeep, nor the up-to-the-minute flashiness of someplace more au courant. Discretion is also key here – from your private check-in (there's no bustling desk) to the corridors where you're more likely to run into diplomats and royal family members than fashion week models. You'll feel like you have your own pied-à-terre in Paris, with all the services and amenities of a hotel. It’s the best of both worlds – and a departure from our era of wanting to see and be seen.

Address: Hôtel Splendide Royal, 18 Rue du Cirque, 75008 Paris

Maison Souquet, Paris Arrow

'Arabian Nights' meet Napoleon III at heady hideaway Maison Souquet envisioned by French designer extraordinaire, Jacques Garcia. Drawing inspiration from the building’s early-1900’s stint as a maison close , Garcia has kept the exterior understated – just look for the two red lanterns – then decked the interiors out in reams of lush velvet, Moorish tiles, antique furnishings, and oil paintings of women.

Address: Maison Souquet, 10 Rue de Bruxelles, 75009 Paris, France

Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Paris Arrow

Though right next to the Four Seasons Hotel George V , the two hotels could not be more different: Prince de Galles is decidedly 1920s, with art-deco mosaics and Années Folles fashion photography. It's a tasteful nod to a prominent era in Paris, and a refreshing departure from much of the competition. The bedrooms are as luxurious, and the bathrooms as marble-heavy, as the best of Paris, but you're coming here for a more modern design and less of a "scene." Don't forget to try the Michelin-starred La Scène, led by one of the few award-winning female chefs in the city.

Address: Prince de Galles, a Luxury Collection Hotel, 33 Av. George V, 75008 Paris

Le Roch Hotel & Spa, Paris Arrow

Reflecting its surrounding area – where the Tuileries gardens, Place Vendôme and iconic Colette boutique mingle with residential buildings and neighbourhood schools and churches – Le Roch tempers high design and haute cuisine with a relaxed, unassuming vibe. The first hotel project for designer Sarah Lavoine, known for her Parisian boutiques and lifestyle product collections, the tucked-away hotel opened in 2016 (pronounced “la rock”) and nails the home-away-from-home feel.

Address: Le Roch Hotel & Spa, 28 Rue Saint-Roch, 75001 Paris, France

Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris Arrow

Originally opened in 1928, in a prime location in the ever-so-chic eighth, the Four Seasons Hotel George V is a true Paris icon – but from the moment you enter, it’s clear all is not as traditional as it might seem. The entryway is grand and gilded, the staff deferential and efficient (and always greeting you by name), but flashes of modern style and edgy attitude save the place from seeming staid. This is also the first hotel in Europe to feature five Michelin stars under one roof – garnered here by three distinct restaurants like fine dining Le Cinq, where French classics are reinterpreted using lighter ingredients and techniques. Fortunately, all restaurants are accented by prime vintages from the hotel’s legendary, 50,000 bottle-strong cellar, whose position 45-feet underground helped it survive the bombings of World War II.

Address: Four Seasons Hotel George V, 31 Av. George V, 75008 Paris, France

Mgallery Molitor, Paris Arrow

Paris is a city of pools – in fact, it's home to 38 public swimming spots. But none have the history of the Molitor. The bikini debuted here, and they say the water is so clear you can make your morning coffee with it. After a $100 million investment, the Molitor has been resurrected as the city's latest cool hangout. This is like staying at a beach club in the least likely of cities, where you'll meet an artsy, bon-vivant bunch looking to escape the summer heat.

Address: Mgallery Molitor, 13 Rue Nungesser et Coli, 75016 Paris

Park Hyatt Paris - Vendôme, Paris Arrow

Of all Paris's luxury hotels, Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme might be the most understated: Even the entrance is unassuming, compared to the rest of the city's grand lobbies. Fortunately, it's also a place where things only improve the further in you go. A recent update by American designer Ed Tuttle means dark wood panelling and gilded accent moldings bridge the old and the new, and the bathroom is stocked with top-shelf beauty products (Hermès and Guerlain, of course) along with the hotel's bespoke scent, by respected nose Christophe Laudamiel. Trust us: It's the kind of stuff you'll want to sneak into your suitcase and spend years trying to find at home. Don't forget to factor in a dinner at the Michelin-starred PUR, by Chef Jean-François Rouquette – you can book a table when you book the room.

Address: Park Hyatt Paris-Vendôme, 5 Rue de la Paix, 75002 Paris

Mandarin Oriental, Paris Arrow

Transport yourself out of Paris with this high-gloss hotel, where the past – charming, though it is – doesn't trump the present. You might call it another elegance; but it makes sense that this would be the case at a Mandarin , where the codes for luxury are different, where guests and staff alike swear by impeccable service from start to finish; stylish modern decor; and high-class dining and spa options. The unapologetically modern Thierry Marx overseeing Sur Mesure and Camélia is another way to bridge the divide: having him on board is a clear nod to the local culture and culinary prowess, but his inventiveness and diverse culinary background matches the hotel's contemporary spirit. Another feature that sets Mandarin apart? The to-go Cake Shop located at the entrance to Camélia, one of the only properties in Paris that has this on offer.

Address: Mandarin Oriental, 251 Rue Saint-Honoré, 75001 Paris, France

Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel, Paris Arrow

Looking for an upscale experience without the stuffy design? The Renaissance République is comfortably modern. Guests from all over the world choose this hotel for its functionality – and no surprise: the rooms were designed by the man who decorated the head offices of Louis Vuitton, Dior and Yves Saint Laurent. Everything is custom-made, from the in-room sofa to the perfectly pressed bedding. Casual luxury is the thing here – including staff who look after you but don't overdo it. The location is perfect, and it's a Marriott - meaning your points may come in handy.

Address: Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel, 40 Rue René Boulanger, 75010 Paris

Nolinski, Paris Arrow

The Nolinski feels almost too cool – in a good way – for the neighbourhood. The Jean-Louis Deniot interiors balance an aristocratic look with playful touches (take the Grand Salon, which matches polished-brass Deco-style tables with an electric-teal piano). This is high comfort too: a candle-lit spa awaits you downstairs, and you'll find a deep bathtub in your enormous bathroom. Almost everything is available for purchase, in case you fall so in love with the linens you need them at home. The location and the design are unbeatable, and they come at a price point far more accessible than Paris's Palace hotels.

Address: The Nolinski, 16 Av. de l'Opéra, 75001 Paris

Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris Arrow

Beginning with the blood-red awning and lamps adorning the classic façade, it’s clear there’s a little mischief at the heart of this sophisticated lady. Originally opened in 1928, the hotel that’s hosted everyone from Winston Churchill to Michael Jackson underwent an extensive re-do in the mid-2000s, during which master designer Phillipe Starck brought in a playful, contemporary flair and a focus on art. (You can even get a guided tour of the hotel's private collection.) Standouts at Le Royal Monceau – Raffles Paris include a 99-seat, state-of-the-art movie theatre, an art gallery and library, and a Matsuhisa outpost from Chef Nobu, which serves up Peruvian-Japanese cuisine.

Address: Le Royal Monceau, Raffles Paris, 37 Av. Hoche, 75008 Paris, France

Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal, Paris Arrow

The Palais Royal Gardens are many people's favourite place in Paris. Their number two? The Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal – the only one in the area with views over the gardens. The 57 rooms and 11 suites, Pierre-Yves Rochon-designed confections of light greens, powdery pinks, velvet, leather, and silk, are managed more like they're part of a family-owned boutique property; really, it feels like a series of apartments, complete with elegant, understated design schemes, and just enough space to feel like you're at home. It's affordable luxury in one of the very best locations in the city. Another happy surprise is Le Lulli Restaurant, a fine dining option set in a beautiful, garden-inspired dining room.

Address: Grand Hôtel du Palais Royal, 4 Rue de Valois, 75001 Paris

Hôtel Récamier, Paris Arrow

Under the supervision of a passionate owner, a run-down two-star hotel was revived in 2009 into this sophisticated Left Bank inn that evokes the apartment of a well-travelled art and history buff. Accented by the Hôtel Récamier's signature scent, the interiors by Jean-Louis Deniot are contemporary and bright, warmed by reclaimed wood tables, metallic sculptures, and original artwork and unique objects sourced from around the world.

Address: Hôtel Récamier, 3B Pl. Saint-Sulpice, 75006 Paris, France

Le Pavillon de la Reine, Paris Arrow

The Marais neighbourhood’s Place de Vosges has often been called one of the most beautiful squares in the world, so it’s a good thing that this family-owned hotel’s ivy-covered, 17th-century façade fits right in. The insides of Le Pavillon de la Reine are pretty photo-worthy, too: past the extensive private garden courtyard – a fairytale come to life when all lit up – the interiors by Didier Benderli of Kérylos Interiors mix Old World touches like original antiques, marble fireplace mantles, and richly-coloured oil portraits of aristocratic faces with contemporary-styled furnishings and clean lines, resulting in a vibe that’s both plush and un-fussy. Take note: The 56 rooms and suites each feature a different style and décor, so be sure to ask in advance if you prefer antique over modern, or vice-versa.

Address: Le Pavillon de la Reine, 28 Pl. des Vosges, 75003 Paris, France

Relais Christine, Paris Arrow

Slip away from the lively cafés and chic boutiques of Saint-Germain-de-Prés, head down a quiet side street and through a leafy passageway and you’ll find one of Paris’s best-kept hotel secrets – and the regulars are inclined to keep it that way. Opened in 1979 in a 17th-century former private mansion (that itself was built on the vestiges of the 13 th century Saint-Denis College of the Grands-Augustins Abbey), Relais Christine marries classic French design with contemporary materials and a fresh look dreamed up by designer Laura Gonzalez. If you want a memorable morning meal, you can have your coffee and croissant beneath the building’s vaulted cellar, which doubles as the intimate breakfast room.

Address: Relais Christine, 3 Rue Christine, 75006 Paris, France

A version of this article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveler US .

The ultimate luxury guide to Paris

P aris is, as they say, always a good idea. To me, thanks to my Parisian father, it is always home. Though we long ago decamped to London, the city of lights has an inescapable allure, perhaps most especially for a half-Frenchie in exile across the channel.

On my frequent trips back, I have curated my own collection of local spots, favoured museums and even preferred sunny-day strolls, as well as the perfect choices for date nights and Sunday lunches (also, don't miss our edit of the best luxury hotels in Paris ).

Away from the pyramids of the Louvre, the glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower and the crush of crowds on the Champs-Élysées, you'll find the streets I adore strolling down, the in-the-know restaurants and the cosy boltholes that make the French capital so special. Visiting now, as a tourist, these are the spots I never miss and, you'll be pleased to hear, neither do many Parisians.

The Hidden Gem: Hotel Rochechouart

Like many of Paris’ cooler enclaves, Pigalle was once viewed as seedy, a little dangerous, a bit, well, cheeky. It is, after all, the arrondissement which houses the infamous Folies Bergère and the Moulin Rouge. The traces of this naughty pedigree remain in the city’s hottest bars and hotels and a tree-lined island cutting through boulevard Rochechouart is named after one of its most famous transgender performers, Coccinelle. It is along this road that you will find the Art Deco charm of Hotel Rochechouart . A large slice of its appeal lies in its proximity to the eternal delights of Montmartre, with the Sacre Coeur visible from its upper floors and rooftop terrace. The rooms are finished in classic Parisian apartment style – unfussy but chic – with a palette of cream, dark brown and a subtle hint of mustard yellow. The restaurant and bar have a late-night buzz. A white vaulted ceiling, low lighting and booth seating give it an air of cosy romance and the menu is replete with French classics. The scallops are a standout. Set apart from the crush of tourists, with a quiet kind of cool, Hotel Rochechouart feels like a sexy little secret. Which is very Pigalle, after all.

Hotel Rochechouart , 55 Blvd Marguerite de Rochechouart, 75009

The Ultimate Ap é ro: Hotel Dame des Arts

The rooftops of Paris are beloved, and yet so few are decked out with the requisite bar to truly enjoy them in warmer climes. Enter Hotel Dame des Arts . Possibly one of the coolest new spots on the Left Bank, their restaurant – overseen by Othoniel Alvarez Castaneda – serves a treasure trove of melt-in-the-mouth Mexican food, while the smart rooftop bar offers one of the most impressive views over the capital.

Hotel Dames Des Arts , 4 Rue Danton, 75006

The Secret Garden: Parc des Buttes Chaumant

Make the pilgrimage to the 19 th arrondissement and you will be rightly rewarded with one of Paris’ most underrated pleasures. Created in the reign of Napoleon III, this vast park is done ‘in the English style’, with 61 acres of undulating hills and a Roman folly overlooking a small lake. On a sunny day, the grass is scattered with families – and the savvier tourists – having picnics.

The Hidden Histories: Chapelle Expiatoire

You can live in Paris and still, perhaps, have missed this tiny piece of French history. Where this early 19th-century chapel now stands, was once a mass grave for the aristocrats who met their fate at the blade of the guillotine. Its most famous residents were King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, for whom this small memorial was commissioned by their only surviving child in 1826. It commemorates their exhumation and reburial at the royal tomb of Saint Denis in 1815 and contains two beautiful sculptures of the late monarchs, as well as their last letters, reprinted in full, on stone plinths. As much an emotional tribute from a grieving daughter as a fascinating piece of post-revolutionary history, this underrated sight is well-worth a visit.

Chapelle Expiatoire , 29 Rue Pasquier, 75008

The Sweetest Treat: Butterfly Pâtisserie

Heading to Paris and not sampling its many desserts is surely a crime against nature. But if you really want to indulge in style, treat yourself to Hôtel de Crillon’s newly launched Butterfly Pâtisserie , where the hotel’s pastry chef, Matthieu Carlin, is masterminding some of the capital’s most sinfully delicious treats. Try the mille-feuille and die happy, trust me.

Butterfly Pâtisserie , Hôtel de Crillon, 10 Pl. de la Concorde, 75008

The Friday night dinner: Chez Georges

Chez Georges, in the 2 nd arrondissement, is a traditional spot that has the kind of high quality you would expect from a restaurant with enough quiet confidence to not have its own website. The waiters and managers know the place is good, and you’ll be hard pressed to get a table out of them by just trying your luck. If you’re fortunate enough to get in (where you’ll be seated up close and personal with your fellow diners, true brasserie style) you will be rewarded with a hand-scrawled menu of quintessential French cooking; simple, yet masterful.

Chez Georges , 1 Rue du Mail, 75002

The After-hours spot: Maison Souquet

Should you be having an illicit rendezvous in Paris (and honestly, where else would you?) there can be no more delectable enclave than this ostentatious Belle Epoque spot. A stroll away from the heady Moulin Rouge, it is brimming with all the velvet-tasselled glamour of that era. The cocktail bar is the perfect nightcap venue. Much like its comprehensive list of rare champagnes and absinthes, it is sexy and just a little too much.

Maison Souquet , 10 Rue de Bruxelles, 75009

The Sunday Lunch: Brasserie Lipp

On a Sunday afternoon in Paris, anyone who is anyone will be dining at Lipp. The place is rammed with regulars, from grand old bourgeois dames to the great and good of French cinema, and all are treated alike; with gruff, sardonic charm. The set up is much as it has been since this titan of Saint Germain dining opened in 1880 and the walls and doors are plastered with cheeky missives denouncing shorts and cigar smoke, just as its menu strictly condemns salad as a meal. It has a thoroughly deserved reputation for excellent food, dry-witted waiters and a particularly fine Brouilly. Their roast chicken and pommes pur ée are simply unbeatable. I can’t leave town without having had it.

Brasserie Lipp , 151 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006

The Date Night: S’ebon

This pocket-sized eatery is the ideal choice for a romantic evening with your beloved, be they a best friend, a lover or a cherished grandmother. With just a smattering of tables, and most of them laid out for two, this is an intimate, candle-lit place. Yet its allure is all in its spectacular food, which takes a modern European menu and plays with it magnificently. Some of the most subtly inventive food in the capital is served here, which is why it has long been one of Paris’ ‘if you know, you know’ restaurants.

S'ebon , 62 Rue d'Orsel, 75018

The Rainy-day escape: Musée Carnavalet

When the heavens open, head immediately to the oldest museum in the city. The complete history of Paris – in more than 4,000 pieces – is laid out in a former private home in the heart of le marais. A fascinating curation which will take you on a journey from prehistoric Parisians to the student protests of 1968 via the French revolution and the Nazi occupation, makes it a riotous way to spend a rainy afternoon in the capital. Plus, it’s free!

Musée Carnavalet , 23 Rue de Sévigné, 75003

The Artistic Interlude: Musée Delacroix

You are spoilt for choice when it comes to art museums in Paris. But if you have exhausted the Louvre or haunted the galleries of the Orsay too often, consider the humble but compelling former house of the French artist Eugène Delacroix. Filled with many of his personal items and intriguing facts about his quotidian life, as well as several of his early sketches and most famous paintings, it is an intimate look at one of the country’s most celebrated creatives. On a sunny day, end your tour with a coffee in the pretty garden below his studio.

Musée Delacroix , 6 Rue de Furstemberg, 75006

The Big Night Out: Alcazar

Located in the buzziest part of Saint Germain, this atmospheric restaurant has been a go-to destination for well-heeled reverie ever since it was opened by Terence Conran more than 20 years ago. Its 2015 facelift made it even more of a chic party hotspot. Set across two floors, with a mezzanine level bar and a live DJ at the weekend, head here armed with joie de vivre and the stamina for some of Paris’ punchiest espresso martinis.

Alcazar , 62 Rue Mazarine, 75006

The Boutique Bolthole: Hotel de La Boétie

Finding an affordable hotel in Paris is a little like looking for bad cheese in France. Thankfully, that is where Touriste comes in. A relatively new hotel brand, they specialise in budget-friendly hotels with a certain je ne sais quoi – a bright, quirky chicness splattered over their simple offerings all with their own distinct personalities. A stone’s throw from the Champs Élysées, one of their latest openings, Hotel de la Boétie , could not situate you in a more central spot in Paris. Despite the clamour and showiness of this vast nearby avenue, there is a calmness to the rue de la Boétie that proves a salve after a busy day of strolling around the sights. Sweet but unpretentious, it is the ideal choice for a city-break base. Plus, the design has been masterminded by the Swedish powerhouse Beata Heuman and the rooms are like confectionery brought to life, with porthole windows in the bathroom, soft pink sheets, branded towels and a slight whiff of Wes Anderson in the air.

Hotel de La Boétie , 91 Rue La Boétie, 75008

The Best Coffee Spot: Ma Bourgogne

Overlooking the most beautiful square in Paris, Place des Vosges, is this quintessential neighbourhood restaurant. Their steak tartare is a knockout, their waiters are the best type of rude and drinking a glass of Sancerre here in the summer while people-watching is one of life’s greatest joys. It was an old local for my family and thus, it is my favourite place for an espresso or café crème whenever I am in town.

Ma Bourgogne , 19 Pl. des Vosges, 75004

The Taste of Provence: Chez Janou

The waiters here once refused to put a candle in a dessert for my birthday dinner, understandably, as my husband had ordered us a wobbly chocolate mousse. They are wonderfully irreverent, and famously impatient, perhaps because their patrons invariably indulge in an 80-strong pastis menu at the bar before taking a seat. Nestled in le marais, Janou serves unrivalled Provençal food – the best this side of Marseille – in a cosseting environment of wood-panelled walls, bold Belle Epoque posters and a far-too-drinkable wine menu.

Chez Janou , 2 Rue Roger Verlomme, 75003 Paris

• Inspiration
• Destinations
• Places To Stay
• Style & Culture
• Food & Drink
• Wellness & Spas
• News & Advice
• Partnerships
• Traveller's Directory
• Travel Tips
• Competitions

47 best things to do in Paris right now

By Rosalyn Wikeley and Antonia Bentel

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

For a city swarming in oh-la-la clichés, curating an itinerary that doesn’t feel too Emily in Paris is always a challenge. While there is of course an abundance of off-beat, insider spots to fluff your feathers into, as if doing so will immediately morph you into a bona fide bobo (bourgeois bohemian) Parisian and lift you into some cultured, more discerning league, missing the hot ticket attractions that, let’s face it, are the very essence of the City of Lights would be une erreur. We’re not suggesting you swing a selfie stick to the Eiffel Tower but rather gorge on this city’s world-leading cavalcade of museums, monuments and age-old markets. They sit as splendidly on an itinerary alongside those lesser-known spots – the hammams, the pocket-sized vineyards, the concept stores – as they do amid the city’s Haussmann maze.

So once you’ve checked into one of the best hotels in the French capital and have configured your trip around the city’s best restaurants (who wouldn’t), why not flesh out your plans with our editors’ curation of the 47 best things to do in Paris.

What are the best free things to do in Paris?

The good news is that you don't have to break the bank to enjoy Paris — there is plenty to experience for those travelling on a budget. You can find refuge from the buzzing streets with walks down the Promenade Plantée or stroll through the bustling organic farmer's market on Boulevard Raspail and even window shop at Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen. Even a few museums and galleries, including the excellent Carnavalet and Petit Palais, are free to visit.

How many days should I spend in Paris?

We recommend spending three to five days in Paris to give yourself time to soak in everything this  beautiful city has to offer. From cycling down the Seine and learning to make a pastry at La Cuisine Paris to dancing at the city’s oldest jazz club, Le Bal Blomet, keep reading for the best things to do in Paris.

What are the best things to do in Paris at night?

There's a reason why Paris is known as the City of Light. Yes, it was initially because it was one of the first in  Europe to install street lamps, but now it has more to do with how its iconic landmarks beautifully sparkle at night. One of the best things to do in Paris at night is to catch metro line 6 from Bir-Hakeim to Passy station for the most magical panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower. It sparkles at the beginning of every hour for five minutes, until the last show at 11pm, so time your journey perfectly (tip: sit on the right side for the best views). You can also book a dinner cruise along the Seine River. For a more cultural experience, the Musée d'Orsay is open late on Thursdays, and the Louvre is open late on Fridays – when the queues are far shorter and most famous artworks less crowded. There's also plenty of entertainment, from the vibrant  bar scene to glamorous shows at the Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse cabarets.

The best things to do in Paris

1. Go on a shopping spree

When in Paris, one must shop – it’s the rule. Spend the day working your way down Boulevard Haussmann, one of the city’s most famous shopping streets. The tree-lined boulevard is home to traditionally Parisian apartment blocks, but the main attractions are the department stores. Galeries Lafayette is one of the most famous (and largest) department stores in Europe, home to more than 50 shops, from Armani and Balenciaga to Hermès and Louis Vuitton. Don’t forget to look up – the glass cupola is 100 years old. Follow up with a stop by Printemps, another historic department store which first opened 160 years ago. Olivia Morelli

2. Feast on falafel

As well as being home to some of the coolest concept stores and cultural corners in the city, the Jewish Quarter is where you’ll find the very best falafel in Paris. Stroll through Le Marais to uncover some delicious restaurants – particularly along Rue des Rosiers, where hotspots like L'As du Fallafel, Chez Hanna, and Mi-Va-Mi compete to win over crowds with their vegetarian delights. Long queues flooding out of doors in this area are common, but don’t let them daunt you - many of the owners have been in the falafel business for more than 40 years, so they have mastered the skill of efficient service. Layla Quaedvlieg

Address: Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris

3. Visit some of the city’s prettiest parks

Located in the 8th arrondissement, Parc Monceau and its winding paths make for one of the most charming walks in Paris. Look out for the Renaissance-style arches, serene duck ponds and sculptures of famous French figures, from Frederick Chopin to Guy de Maupassant. The scenery is picture-perfect, making it a popular spot for artists (even Monet was known to stop and paint here). The Marais district’s Place des Vosges is smaller yet equally beautiful, a well-kept square garden surrounded by traditional townhouses, many of which are now galleries. Spend the morning soaking up the artwork before heading to the park for your next post-exhibition picnic to unwind amongst the greenery and admire the stunning architecture. Layla Quaedvlieg

Address: Parc Monceau, 35 Boulevard de Courcelles, 75008 Paris; Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris

4. Attend a concert by candlelight

What better way to experience the city of lights than by witnessing live music at night by candlelight? This unique concert series offers up a range of genres and locations, from tributes to Hans Zimmer or Vicaldi performed in grand music halls, right through to a performance of Queen in a historic auditorium and even Taylor Swift, taking place in a modern art centre. All performances are beautifully illuminated by candlelight and feature professional musicians in a range of ensembles, including string quartets to brass bands and vocals with guitar.

Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris, France Website: feverup.com

5. Walk amongst the dead at the Père Lachaise Cemetery

One might believe the suggestion to stroll through the world’s most visited and celebrated cemetery to be morbid – and how mistaken they would be! Nestled in the depths of eastern Paris, the Père Lachaise Cemetery serves as the final resting ground for some of the world’s most beloved artists, politicians, and writers, including Edith Piaf, Balzac, and Oscar Wilde. Even the late Jim Morrison of The Doors has been laid to rest here, with his crypt serving as a point of pilgrimage for dedicated fans. Make your way through the cobbled pathways dotted with intricate and ornate gravestones and take in the solemn, calm atmosphere.

Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris, France Website: paris.fr

6. Taste the magical creations of Cédric Grolet

When it comes to celebrity pâtissiers in Paris , one superstar outshines all the others. Cédric Grolet has a style so unique and a technique so precise that it’s hard to know if his creations are works of art or culinary magic. He’s most famous for his hyper-realistic fruits, glossy red apples and blush-pink peaches, which are anything other than what they first appear. Each is a masterclass in pâtissierie, a lacquered chocolate skin breaking to reveal an apple and cinnamon mousse or tangy peach compote, the recipe changing with the seasons. Pick them up from his small boutique at the Meurice, but expect long lines unless you get there early.

Address: La Pâtisserie du Meurice par Cédric Grolet, 6 rue de Castiglione, 75001 Paris Website : cedric-grolet.com

7. Dance at the city’s oldest jazz club

Paris has moved to the rhythms of jazz for just short of a century thanks to legendary clubs like Le Bal Blomet, which opened in 1924 in the neighbourhood of Montparnasse. Founded by Jean Rézard de Wouves, a politician-turned-musician from Martinique, it quickly became the place to dance to  Caribbean  sounds in the roaring Twenties. Ernest Hemingway, Joséphone Baker, Joan Miró and Simone de Beauvoir are just some of the famous names to have graced the dancefloor. After being threatened with closure in 2011, it went through an extensive restoration and played a leading role in Damien Chazelle’s Netflix show  The Eddy , in which a jazz club owner struggles to keep his business afloat.

Address: 33 rue Blomet 75015 Paris Website: balblomet.fr

8. Visit Versailles

OK, it’s a little outside Paris, but RER B from St Michel will soon whizz you there. Versailles packs all the palatial oomph one could hope for, with its famous Hall of Mirrors (where the Treaty of Versailles was signed), Italianate gardens and abundance of gilded, excess-driven rooms that put France on the road to revolution. Once you’ve absorbed all the elaborate sconces, chandeliers and muralled panelling, head to The Grand Trianon (Louis XIV and his mistress’ pink marbled escape within the palace walls) and the Petit Trianon (gifted to Marie Antonette by Louis XVI) for more condensed, though no less opulent scenes. A wander around Marie Antoinette’s commissioned ‘peasant village’ shines a light on just how out of touch the King and Queen were with their subjects in 18th-century France. Beyond Versailles golden gates, pull up a wicker chair at Au Petite Marquis for snails lathered in garlic and charcuterie boards.

Address: Palace of Versailles, Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France Website: chateauversailles.fr

9. Admire famous paintings hidden in the city’s churches

When it comes to seeing art, Paris can be a bit overwhelming, to say the least: visitors are confronted with a dizzying 130 museums to choose from. But sometimes famous artworks can crop up in unexpected places. Eugène Delacroix’s painting  ‘La Pietà’  hangs in a corner of the church of Saint Denys du Saint Sacrement, just a few steps from the Picasso Museum. In the 7th arrondissement, the church of Saint François-Xavier displays a  16th century ‘Last Supper’ by Venetian painter Tintoretto , and Rubens’s  ‘The Disciples of Emmaüs’  was recently returned to the church of Saint-Eustache after a restoration.

Address: Saint Denys du Saint Sacrement - 68 rue de Turenne 75003; Saint François-Xavier - 12 Place du Président Mithouard 75007; Saint-Eustache - 2 Impasse Saint-Eustache 75001 Websites: saintdenys.net ; sfx-paris.fr ; saint-eustache.org

10. See Saint-Eustache Church come alive in an immersive show

The imposing church in the 1st arrondissement has a storied history dating back to the 13th century, one that is engagingly recounted in LUMINISCENCE, an immersive show featuring live music, theatre performances and 360-degree video mapping. Via projections on the building along with choir and organ performances, audiences follow the church’s story through the Middle Ages through to the Baroque and Renaissance periods, learning about the building’s influential figures including Molière, Lully, the Queen of Hungary and the Duchess of Orléans.

Address: Église Saint-Eustache, Châtelet-les-Halles: 2, Rue du Jour, 75001 Paris Website: feverup.com

11. Cycle along the Seine

In the past few years, ambitious urbanism plans have made cycling in Paris easier and safer, and a growing number of Parisians are choosing to get around on two wheels. One of the most beautiful cycling routes runs along the banks of the Seine, which were pedestrianised in 2017 and are now lined with cafés, playgrounds and sun loungers. Rent a Vélib’ (Paris city  bike ) for the day and start by the Pont de Sully. Head west on Voie Georges Pompidou and take in some of the city’s most spectacular sights past the Île Saint Louis, Notre Dame and the Hôtel de Ville.

Address: Voie Georges Pompidou, Paris Website: velib-metropole.fr

12. Visit Le Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen

They come with wide smiles, empty bags flung over their arms waiting to be filled with various treasures from the sprawling Saint-Ouen flea market, just outside the city’s northern limit. This is where London  antiques dealers, collectors and those simply keen for a bargain come to scour the relics of bygone eras. And it’s not all brass chandeliers and gilt mirrors, Saint-Ouen is a warren for all whims, from mid-century tables and vintage Chanel to psychedelic prints from the seventies. It would require weeks, even months perhaps, to browse each and every stall and stand in 14 different areas of alleyways and warehouses here – it’s vast. It’s best to attack it from Porte de Clignancourt (line 4 on the metro) – easy access to the market’s artery road, rue des Rosiers. With opening times from 10am-6pm on weekends and 11am-5pm on Mondays (excluding August), this is a weekend reverie for magpies and photography buffs. Those spurred on by the thrill of a bargain should also check out the Puces de Vanves, to the south of the city, where trestle tables overflow with bric-a-brac, glassware and china

Address: Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen, Avenue de la Porte de Clignancourt Transport: Metro: Porte de Clignancourt

13. Check out Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac

If you’re a little Louvre’d out but still have an appetite for some serious art, head to Austrian gallerist, Thaddaeus Ropac’s namesake gallery in Pantin, a stone’s throw from Hermés and Chanel. The white-on-white walls of this former copperware factory are adorned with a remarkable collection of works from artists such as Georg Baselitz and Robert Rauschenberg. The building’s sense of endless minimalism serves as the ultimate canvas for knock-out installations and greatly contrasts the wonky, sprawling antiquity of the surrounding neighbourhood.

Address: Galerie Thaddaeus Ropac Paris Marais, 7 Rue Debelleyme, 75003 Paris Website: ropac.net

14. Be at one with nature on the Promenade Plantée

The Promenade Plantée is a magnificent stretch of greenery, perched high above the melee of motos and pedestrians that make up Parisian street life. Opened in 1988, this raised park was the direct inspiration for  New York’s Highline . Sometimes called La Coulée Verte (the name is a veritable debate amongst Parisians), this five-kilometre walkway is one of Paris’ most underrated outdoor spaces. Running from Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes, the pathway is a refuge from the buzzing boulevards below, in both rain and shine. The Promenade is also perfect for one’s inner voyeur: certain raised platforms provide excellent  views into the sprawling Haussmannian apartments that flank the Promenade.

Address: 1 Coulée Verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France Website: paris.fr

15. Spend an afternoon at Archive 18-20 Le Marais

More taste-maker hub than concept store, Archive 18-20 in trendy Le Marais houses art, fashion, books and a cool restaurant under one vast, glass roof. Industrial pipes track above a beautifully curated scene of normcore coats, cult home décor trinkets orderly spread across vast tables and a small, minimalist café that half of Paris fashion week is known to descend upon.

Address: Comptoir 18-20, 20 Rue des Archives, 75004 Paris Website: archive1820.com

16. Explore the old and the new at the Palais-Royal

Perhaps there is nothing more Parisian than spending an afternoon at the Palais-Royal. The park (once home to the French royal family) is a delightful mélange of the new and the old. The Colonnes de Buren, a permanent, interactive art exhibition installed in the 1980s and set in the courtyard of the old palace, allows visitors to walk amid and climb atop of the columns (and snap a few Insta-worthy pictures, too). To the left of the Colonnes are the plane tree-lined paths and manicured royal rose gardens, which grant park-goers the opportunity to spend a moment amongst perfectly executed natural beauty. Bring a book and sit in one of the green reclining chairs scattered around the park. For a pick-me-up, head to the Chichi Café Kitsuné for a crisp cookie and foamy cappuccino.

Address: 2 Gal de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France Website: en.parisinfo.com

17. Go back in time at the Musée de la Vie Romantique

This lovely, quirky museum can be found at the end of a charming, cobbled lane burrowed into the underbelly of Montmartre. The former home of the painter Ary Scheffer, the Musée de la Vie Romantique allows visitors to imagine themselves as guests at one of Paris’ most well-regarded literary and art salons. The museum’s permanent collection features works and artefacts from notable attendees of these salons, such as painter Delacroix, composers Liszt and Chopin, and writer George Sand, who lived with Scheffer in this picturesque pink Parisian villa. After making your way through the enchanting, dainty interior, take a moment to rest in the courtyard tearoom, surrounded by a magnificent array of wildflowers.

Address: Musée de la Vie Romantique, 16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris Website: museevieromantique.paris.fr

18. Go for a walk along Canal St Martin

Paris’ original hipster neighbourhood , Canal St Martin is stitched together by a series of cast-iron footbridges crossing the canal and thrums with independent cafés that slip effortlessly into bar mode, come 6pm. Chez Prune is one of them. Pull up a chair here for fuss-free cheeseboards and wine, and a sense of the neighbourhood’s trendy, understated character (world’s away from the croissant-poodle Parisian clichés laid on for tourists in more central arrondissements). Once considered a no-go zone, this stretch that straddles the 10th and 11th arrondissement is now ablaze with small galleries, quirky plant stores and concept stores such as Centre Commercial. Drop your bags at Luke Edward Hall’s eccentric Parisian guesthouse, Hotel les deux Gares, then head straight to Holybelly for an Aussie-Parisian hipster brunch.

19. Stroll through the organic farmer’s market on Boulevard Raspail

Hemingway once said that Paris is a moveable feast. If this is true, the organic farmer’s market on the Boulevard Raspail is ongoing proof, every Sunday, week after week. Piles of fresh produce, mouth-watering spits of roasting chickens, and beautifully laid out displays of cheeses surround you as you move from stall to stall, enticing you to not only look but also taste. Certain vendors are more than happy to share their bounty with you, so it is worth dusting off your best French skills to ask for a nibble or two before you buy (just make sure to say merci beaucoup ).

Address: Boulevard Raspail, Notre-Dame-des-Champs, Montparnasse

20. Channel your inner fashionista at Foundation Louis Vuitton

An impressive glass structure designed by eminent Canadian architect, Frank Gehry, Fondation Louis Vuitton seems to float, cloud-like, above the Bois de Boulogne. Visitors and Parisians are lured to the outer stretches of the 16th arrondissement with the museum’s knock-out modern and contemporary art exhibitions (such as Egon Schiele and Jean-Michel Basquiat). The privately-owned Fondation curates only two of these annually (tickets get swiped up quickly), while keeping an eyebrow-raising permanent collection – Ellsworth Kelly and Bertrand Lavier’s works, and the like. True to LVMH form, the ground floor restaurant, Le Frank, puts your classic, often clinical museum eatery to shame, with its swishy menu and extraordinary, light-filled architectural structure crowned by suspended ‘fish lamps.’

Address: Fondation Louis Vuitton, 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, 75016 Paris Website: fondationlouisvuitton.fr

21. Pick up something special at La Boutique de Cara

There are consignment stores then there are consignment stores . This is the latter, a moth-free, beautifully curated boutique off Rue de Turenne in the Marais, which remains one of Paris’ best-kept secrets. Rails strain with a mix of classic and more avant-garde pieces from across the decades: Chanel jackets , Celine dresses and Chloé shirts, and below them, vintage Gucci boots and Bally pumps that have walked Paris’ ‘Bobo’ neighbourhoods. These are clothes that tell stories and promise less damage to your wallet and your fast-fashion conscience. It’s worth noting that cash offers can sometimes bag a bargain and that the immaculately dressed shop assistants will not mince their words if you ask their opinion on that Burberry hat or Dior sunglasses .

Address: La Boutique de Cara, 80 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris, France Website: @laboutiquedecara

22. Splurge at Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf by DFS

Following 16 years of slumber, landmark department store La Samaritaine has once again opened its Art Deco Doors to chic choppers, with its spruced-up historic innards worth coming for alone. Beloved by nearly all Parisians, La Samaritaine’s spicy 900 million dollar makeover by LVMH caused quite a stir in the city, lifting the store into a decidedly more luxurious league. The French luxury goods group’s first Parisian hotel, Cheval Blanc Paris , is connected to the building, peering out over the Seine and funnelling its guests into La Samaritaine via secret doors. True to LVMH form, both the Art Deco and Art Nouveau sections of the building are dotted with avant-garde art installations and luxury fashion, jewellery and homeware brands worthy of their central, Seine-hugging spot.

Address: Samaritaine, 9 R. de la Monnaie, 75001 Paris Website: dfs.com

23. Visit Montmartre’s vineyards and taste Parisian wine

Montmartre’s maze of cobbled streets hides surprises at every turn. One of them is this small vineyard that remains a little-known attraction, perhaps because it’s not usually open to the public. Owned by the city of Paris, the Clos Montmartre was created in 1933 and comes to life every second weekend of October when the Fête des Vendanges (the Grape Harvest Festival) sees the streets below the Sacré-Coeur packed with stall after stall run by winemakers and artisanal producers from around the country. Enter the festival near Place du Tertre to pick up a souvenir glass and a splash of the Clos’ own wine before tasting your way from Alacse to Burgundy, fuelling up on saucisson or snails along the way. A tour of the vineyard followed by a wine tasting can also be booked on the website of the Museum of Montmartre, which sits around the corner and is also worth a visit.

Address: rue des Saules, 75018 Paris Website: museedemontmartre.fr

24. Relax with a hammam at the Mosque

France has the largest Muslim population in Europe, with particularly strong Moroccan and Tunisian communities, and Paris is home to several elegant hammams where Parisians like to retreat for a little pamper session. La Grande Mosquée, one of the country’s biggest mosques built in 1926, houses a hammam (open to women only) as well as a café and a  restaurant . A steam bath in its colourful alcoves, followed by a gommage (scrub) and a massage is the perfect way to unwind. Afterwards, head to the leafy courtyard for a cup of mint tea and freshly made baklava.

Address: 2bis Place du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris Website: la-mosquee.com

25. Dive into Parisian history at the Musée Carnavalet

After years of renovation, the ​​Musée Carnavalet finally reopened to much acclaim in 2021. It’s truly the Parisians’ museum, dedicated entirely to the history of the city from its Roman origins right the way through to the Belle Epoque and World War II. The permanent collections hold an astonishing array of artworks and artefacts: a slipper supposedly belonging to Marie-Antoinette, ancient iron-work street signs, and paintings depicting the violent end of the Paris Commune. The timeline is easy to follow as you move from room to room, only the extensive coverage of the Revolution a little heavy for those not wishing to become au fait with the day-by-day unfolding of the most tumultuous moment in French history. Perhaps most memorable of all is a full recreation of the Fouquet jewellery store, exactly as it stood in 1901, in all its Art Nouveau glory.

Address : 23 rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris Website : carnavalet.paris.fr

26. Time your trip for the fête de la musique

Parisians mark their calendars months in advance for the fête de la musique, held each year on the 21st of June. Yet until you’ve experienced the festival in full swing, it’s hard to comprehend its scale. For one night, and only night only, the entire city turns into an open-air concert. Anyone with an instrument can play live in the street, the strains of a saxophone meeting drums and guitars. Restaurants bring in jazz quartets, and lindy hop sessions go down in the side streets. After parties run long into the night, bars blasting music from outdoor speakers. Where to start depends on what you’re looking for; once the night is underway, you can follow your ears (or the crowds). The Marais always has a reliable mix of classical corners and pumping street parties, with more formal stages set up in the Jardin des Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg.

Website: fetedelamusique.culture.gouv.fr

27. Marvel at Musée Picasso Paris

One of the main draws for those diving into Le Marais (Paris’ old Jewish quarter), along with life-changing falafel and cool boutiques, is Musée Picasso. Set in the perfectly Parisian Hôtel Salé, the museum’s symmetrical facade, sweeping Baroque staircase and zhuzhed-up 17th-century rooms are worth coming for alone. Having pre-ordered tickets online, with strict time slots, visitors are taken on a journey through Picasso’s artistic evolution, from his Cubist era, via his surreal works (among many) and through to his late paintings – doable within the hour and best combined with a light lunch on the museum’s rooftop café followed by a happy descent into Le Marais’ labyrinth of independent stores. The ever-changing series of exhibitions at this museum rarely fail to please, with most shining light on various facets of Picasso’s life and how these fed into his work.

Address: 5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris Website: museepicassoparis.fr

28. Spend the afternoon at Musee du Louvre

The former royal palace, the Louvre remains the world’s most-visited museum, and perhaps the most overwhelming cultural escapade to embark on without some semblance of a plan. It would take months to tick off its 35,000 artworks and artefacts, so it’s worth considering how you’d like to navigate its warren of masterpieces – the famous works are a great place to start or the theme-based tours available on the Louvre’s website. Whether you’re admittedly just dropping in to shimmy your way through the crowds for a glimpse of the Mona Lisa, or are a bona fide art enthusiast beelining for its latest exhibition, the Louvre’s architectural skeletons (both the old and new sections) are a marvel to pace through.

Address: Louvre Museum, 75001 Paris Website: louvre.fr

29. Try some delicacies at Stohrer

Weaving through Rue Montorgueil’s abundance of stalls and freshly-baked whiffs is a bucket-list Parisian experience in itself – an artery street connecting the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, whose stretch of boulangeries, patisseries , fruit and vegetable shops, and increasingly, some high-end designer boutiques, are fleshed out every Thursday and Sunday by a lively food market that can only be described as a sensory assault. It’s also home to Stohrer – Paris’ oldest boulangerie, whose founder was the pastry chef to the former King of Poland and famously invented rum baba. Rows of macarons, fruit tarts and chocolate pastries are dialled up by the spectacular setting, where illustrated mirrors, chandeliers and a frescoed ceiling spin their occupants into a decadent, pre-Revolutionary Paris.

Address: Stohrer, 51 Rue Montorgueil, 75002 Paris Website: stohrer.fr

30. Become acquainted with Belleville

Flying blissfully under the radar for most city visitors, the arty, anti-establishment enclave of Belleville has its own distinct rhythms to central Paris and is well worth metro-ing northeast for. Its hilly streets (reminiscent of Montmartre, just without the tourist circus), are dotted with eye-popping galleries, unbuttoned cafés and bars that lure in punters with the promise of live jazz and affordable cocktails. Head to La Bellevilloise (filling the vast bones of a once workers cooperative) for their Sunday jazz brunch or The Dancing Goat on Avenue Gambetta for superlative coffee and paired back, but bobo Parisian interiors. For something more traditional but still nodding confidently to the district’s working-class roots, tuck into the menu at Le Baratin, having browsed the antique trinkets at Marché Place des Fêtes.

31. Escape the chaos in Jardin du Luxembourg

This neat, Italianate park, straddling Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter was commissioned by Queen Marie de Medici in 1612 and serves as a green exhale for Parisians living in the 6th arrondissement. It’s also prime picnic territory – on the benches alongside the pond or geometric wood, from which you can people watch or take in the mix of English, Italian and French landscaping. Don’t leave without checking out the Medici fountain or the pétanque talent on the courts, and children are usually treated to puppet shows, rides and remote control boats along the fountains.

Address: Jardin du Luxembourg, 75006 Paris Website: jardin.senat.fr

32. Marvel at the pretty Palais Garnier

A bejewelled paean to Napoleon III’s architectural taste, Le Palais Garnier opera gazes proudly down its namesake avenue, its exterior festooned with pillars and busts. Those who’ve watched Phantom of the Opera will be familiar with the lobby’s sweeping marble Grand Staircase, as well as the lavish gilding, onyx balconies and blood-red theatre seats. You don’t have the be dressed up to the nines with a ticket to Tosca to behold Palais Garnier’s resplendent architectural beauty – you can simply take a self-guided tour or book onto one of the Phantom of the Opera specials (booking online is mandatory).

Address: Palais Garnier, Pl. de l'Opéra, 75009 Paris Website: operadeparis.fr

33. See the Sainte-Chapelle's glittery interiors

The first thing to know about this spectacular Ile de la Cité chapel, aside from its Gothic good looks and famous stained-glass windows, is to book a timed ticket slot in advance to avoid the queues. As you smugly breeze past the crowds to embark on your self-guided tour of Louis IX’s jewel box of a chapel, you’ll clock the surrounding splendour of the Palais de Justice. Louis IX commissioned the 13th-century Sainte-Chapelle to house his religious treasures – the most famous being the Holy Crown. Too often, tourists flock to nearby Notre Dame and miss this world heritage site, with its mesmerising 15-foot high stained glass windows and ‘wall of light’ – a rose window formation whose luminosity belies a depiction of the end of our age.

Address: Sainte-Chapelle, 10 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris Website: sainte-chapelle.fr

34. Shop along Le Petit Ceinture

For a greener, lesser-known side to Paris, walk its ‘Little Belt’ – an abandoned 19th-century railway line that, unlike New York’s High Line, has a Secret Garden appeal to it. Romantically dishevelled, the tracks that once pulled a steam train around the city have succumbed to moss and wildflowers. A long walk through these overgrown stretches of obsolete track on the fringes of the city delivers on all the street art you could hope for, with soaring graffiti walls and a variety of untamed, (glorious in summer) blooms, (an official nature trail exists between the Porte d’Auteuil and the Gare de la Muette).

35. Explore a concept store

Le Marais may be the epicentre of Paris’ concept store scene, but Merci is one of the originals. You’ll be hard-pressed to scoot around this shop without picking up a stylish homeware item, cashmere scarf or dry flower bouquet. You’d think with so much existing under one roof –  fashion , art, design pieces, second-hand books – that a sort of happy chaos would unfold. Wrong. Sharp minimalism holds sway, with pieces presented on tables or rails with the precision of a Japanese potter. Stay for raspberry tart and coffee at the retro film-themed café, where screens flash up scenes from classics such as La Piscine and Les Enfants du Paradis.

Address: Merci, 111 Bd Beaumarchais, 75003 Paris Website: merci-merci.com

36. Meet the dead in Les Catacombes

Open to the public since 1809, Paris’ Catacombs are a spine-chilling visit. The story goes that in the 19th century, an abandoned quarry’s underground warren of tunnels was used to house the bones of corpses during a cemetery overcrowding crisis. These tunnels that weave and wiggle breath the city have near mythical status for its residents, where the Resistance gathered for clandestine meetings during the Second World War, and now where row upon row of skulls and various other bones of long-deceased Parisians decorate the walls, with mosaic-like effect. Ensure you bring a jumper – as the tunnels descend, skulls flicker in the light and your voice echoes, it begins to get a little cold…and spooky.

Address: 1 Av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris Website: catacombes.paris.fr

37. Be mesmerised at The Crazy Horse

Those at the pruder end of the cabaret scale may want to bypass the Crazy Horse for the Moulin Rouge. Here, it’s all nude performances, taking audiences on a titillating whistle-stop-tour of this city stalwart’s history. Expect surreal aerial routines, cleverly choreographed burlesque and all the traditional, foot-tapping cabaret numbers that lean into the roaring twenties theme.

Address: The Crazy Horse, 12 Av. George V, 75008 Paris Website: lecrazyhorseparis.com

38. Be blown away by the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur

Crowning the highest hill in Paris’ bohemian Montmartre neighbourhood with its white domes, Sacré-Coeur has one of the most knock-out panoramic views over the city. Visitors can clamber up its famous white steps, with its dome bearing down on the capital, and enter quietly inside where a vast mosaic ceiling humbles those beneath it. Just behind the Sacré Coeur lies the Place du Tertre – a square filled with artists sketching portraits of tourists perched on rickety stools and buskers competing with one another for crowds.

Address: The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris Website: sacre-coeur-montmartre.com

39. Window shop at Galerie Vivienne

Evocative of 19th-century Paris in all its gaslit, mosaic splendour, Galerie Vivienne is more opulent than your average shopping arcade. Designed by architect François-Jean Delannoy, this passage couverts just behind the Bibliothèque Richelieu and continues to draw in the well-heeled shopper with its high-end fashion boutiques, wine cellars (Legrand Filles & Fils), bookshops and time-warp cafés. It’s a great place to beeline for as soon as the Parisian sky moves through its shades of grey but fresh air is on the agenda. Don’t miss the upscale preloved fashion store, and La Marelle, and be sure to look up at the impressive glass and steel ceiling before you spill out into the Palais-Royal gardens.

Address: Galerie Vivienne, 4 Rue des Petits Champs, 75002 Paris Website: galerie-vivienne.com

40. Feel inspired at Musée Yves Saint Laurent Paris

Stepping into this 16th arrondissement mansion (YSL’s headquarters for almost 30 years), is like slipping into the elegant, effervescent world of this legendary fashion designer. A series of light-filled, beautifully-curated rooms filled with sketches, fashion and film showcase Saint Laurent’s creative process and capture the energy and excitement of the couture house during its meteoric ascent. Continually rotating exhibitions tap into the museum’s extensive archives, unearthing fresh YSL content for those returning (expect plenty of Le Smoking, and as-he-left-it touches that offer you a privileged glimpse into this sartorial genius’ life and work).

Address: Musée Yves Saint Laurent, 5 Av. Marceau, 75116 Paris Website: museeyslparis.com

41. Spot curiosities at Deyrolle

This eye-popping cabinet of natural history curios is legendary for its exotic, and eccentrically-curated taxidermy. Founded in 1831 by famed entomologist Emile Deyrolle, the Left Bank institution famously burnt down in 2008, though a subsequent extensive restoration programme brought it back to its original bell jar and wooden-cased splendour. Visitors can weave through its maze of taxidermy and natural history specimens, observing these creatures up close – from bears to rare butterflies and extinct mammals.

Address: Deyrolle, 46 Rue du Bac, 75007 Paris Website: deyrolle.com

42. Wander through Centre Pomipdou

Love it or loathe it, Centre Pompidou’s ‘guts out’ exterior (industrial pipes, air ducts, structural steel n’ all) has become an icon of the city’s contemporary movement. Its opening in the 70s caused quite a stir, considered by many an architectural blemish on the capital’s Haussmann uniformity, with its architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers even placing the lifts and escalators on the building’s exterior. The effect on its innards, though, is quite spectacular, with vast, airy spaces serving as the perfect industrial canvas for contemporary works. The Musée National d’Art Moderne spans the top two levels (expect everything from Marcel Duchamp to Matisse); contemporary art from the 1960s onwards can be found on level 4; and the mezzanine’s Galerie d’Enfants is where to take the bored-looking sprogs for some interactive exhibitions (with free admission on the first Sunday of every month).

Address: Centre Pomipdou, Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris Website: centrepompidou.fr

43. Munch at Marché Des Enfants Rouges

Of all Le Marais’ cultural-foodie offerings, Marché Des Enfants remains one of the most authentic. Paris’ oldest market takes its name (the red children) from the red-clad orphans who once resided just beside it. Locals and tourists mingle under the vast green iron and glass ceiling, browsing the market’s bounty, pulling up chairs at one of the makeshift restaurants , or simply soaking in the energy.

Address: Marché Des Enfants Rouges, 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris Website: paris.fr

44. Amble around the magical Musée Rodin

Dotted around the gardens of this achingly handsome Parisian mansion, previously Hôtel Biron, are some of Auguste Rodin’s most famous works, including, perhaps his most famous, The Thinker . Inside, the sculpture’s life and work are honoured (within resplendent 18th-century rooms, with their soaring ceilings and vast windows pulling in that soft Parisian light). This dances along the busts, drawings and sculptures, and visitors can get a sense of the aesthetically soothing setting within which Rodin worked and taught others. Meander through the garden, pausing to admire the Gates of Hell before settling into a tasty lunch at the museum’s new café, L’Augustine.

Address: Musée Rodin, 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris Website: musee-rodin.fr

45. Look over the rooftops from Institut du Monde Arabe

Designed by Jean Nouvel, Paris’ Institut du Monde Arabe in the 5th arrondissement may, at first glance, appear simply a cubic, contemporary structure. But look a little closer, and its exterior is crafted from hundreds of elaborate mashrabiyas – a clever interplay of new-meets-old. The institute is dedicated to celebrating and educating visitors on the Arab world, with an ever-changing raft of cultural events, workshops, performances and art exhibitions, and a 9th-floor café worth sticking around for… particularly for the views across the city rooftops.

Address: Institut du Monde Arabe, 1 Rue des Fossés Saint-Bernard, 75005 Paris Website: imarabe.org

46. Get lost in Parc Buttes-Chaumont

Yes, the Tuileries and Jardin du Luxembourg are postcard-pretty. But for something a little more off-grid and dishevelled (by Parisian standards), head to Parc Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement. Far from the manicured beds and orderly topiary of the city’s inner parks, this vast, hilly patch of green lies on abandoned quarries, with grottos, waterfalls, a suspension bridge and a large artificial lake. The Temple de la Sibylle crowns the park atop a jagged, man-made cliff that surges from the curiously blue lake below, and there’s even a sliver of a vineyard hidden alongside it (Butte Bergeyre vineyard).

Address: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 75019 Paris Website: paris.fr

47. Uncover an underrated museum

Once the home and atelier of sculptor and Rodin pupil Antoine Bourdelle, this off-the-beaten-track museum peers into the Left Bank’s 20th-century soul. Compact and utterly charming, Musée Bourdelle showcases the sculptor’s work and creative process, with rooms left as they were all those years ago. Spot the students and artists quietly sketching Bourdelle’s larger sculptures in the airy hall or outside in the pocket-sized rose garden.

Address: Musée Bourdelle, 18 Rue Antoine Bourdelle, 75015 Paris Website: bourdelle.paris.fr

• [ June 26, 2024 ] Review: seaplane transfer to Cheval Blanc Randheli Maldives Flight reviews
• [ June 24, 2024 ] Top 10 most expensive hotel rooms in the world Top 10 lists
• [ June 21, 2024 ] Travel news: this month (June 2024) in luxury travel Uncategorized
• [ June 17, 2024 ] Top 10 most beautiful islands in the world Uncategorized
• [ June 14, 2024 ] Tips for booking & saving money at One&Only Resorts Uncategorized

Top 10 best things to see & do in Paris

Monday  newsletters  always feature  top 10 travel lists  to inspire.

Today: Top 10 best things to see & do in Paris

Monumental squares, centuries-old churches, famous boulevards, the Seine and romantic bridges that cross it, magnificent palaces, and Montmartre’s cobblestone streets make Paris the most glamorous and elegant of all cities. The City of Light has not only inspired painters, sculptors, writers, poets and composers but also practically every major world capital, with every city claiming its own Champs-Elysèes. As you cruise on the Seine, stay in luxury hotel , or watch the world pass by from a café terrace, it’s easy to understand why so many people fall in love with Paris. Here’s my selection of the 10 best things to see & do in Paris.

There is more information (with  YouTube videos) below my slideshow. What’s your favorite thing to do in Paris? Leave a comment !

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

*** Follow me on  Instagram ,  YouTube ,  Twitter  or  Facebook  for a daily moment of travel inspiration ***

10. ADMIRE THE NOTRE-DAME CATHEDRAL

Notre Dame de Paris is arguably the most famous religious monument in the world and widely considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral suffered desecration during the radical phase of the French Revolution in the 1790s, when much of its religious imagery was damaged or destroyed. During the 19th century, an extensive restoration project was completed, returning the cathedral to its previous state. Unfortunately, a destructive fire ravaged the cathedral on April 15th, 2019, destroying the iconic spire and the original wooden roof of the building. However, the eighteenth-century organ and two bell towers remain in-tact, and can still be seen standing from afar. Officials anticipate the Notre-Dame will remain closed for another five to six years before it is once again rebuilt and safe to enter.

9. ATTEND A CONCERT AT THE OPERA HOUSE

Commissioned by Napoleon III and completed in 1875, Charles Garnier’s architectural masterpiece Palais Garnie is one of the most iconic opera houses in the world. Although most of the Paris Opera’s productions now take place in the larger and more modern Opéra Bastille, visitors can still attend a concert or take a tour of the public areas of the theater. The façade is richly ornamented with marble arches and colonnades, grotesque masks and gilded statues. The interior is no less opulent. Frescoes, gold leaf, mosaics and sculptures adorn every room, and the lavish auditorium (Grande Salle) – with all red velvet seats and gilded moulding – has a ceiling painted by Marc Chagall in 1964. The Palais Garnier provided the inspiration for Gaston Leroux’s novel The Phantom of the Opera . The book mentions a subterranean ‘lake’ created by the architect to stabilize the building’s foundation. There is indeed a water tank beneath the building, but it is off limits to the general public.

• Official website : Palais Garnier

8. MAKE A DAY TRIP TO VERSAILLES

Versailles, which has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List for 30 years, is one of the most beautiful achievements of 18th-century French art and one of the most famous palaces in Europe . The site, located some 20 km (12 miles) southwest of Paris and easily reachable by public transport, began as Louis XIII’s hunting lodge before his son Louis XIV (known as the Sun King) transformed and expanded it, moving the court and government of France to Versailles in 1682. Each of the three French kings who lived there added improvements to make it more beautiful. The château lost its standing as the official seat of power during the French Revolution in 1789. However, it still serves political functions today as heads of state are regaled in the Hall of Mirrors, ad French politicians meet in congress here to revise or otherwise amend the French Constitution. With the gardens and the ​​Palaces of Trianon, the magnificent park of the Château de Versailles spreads over 800 hectares.

• Official website :  Versailles

7. GET LOST IN THE LATIN QUARTER

The Latin Quarter is situated on the left bank of the Seine and is one of the oldest districts in Paris. The area takes its name from the Latin language, taught in the Middle Ages at many schools in the district. Parisians and tourists enjoy exploring this vibrant, artsy, and eclectic quarter, which is full of cosmopolitan restaurants, cafes, pubs and quirky boutiques. It’s also easy to get lost in the quarter’s maze of tiny, cobble-stone alleys, evocative of medieval Paris. Awaiting discovery are ancient churches, botanical gardens, the world-famous Sorbonne University, and the imposing Pantheon, the resting place of great figures of the nation such as Victor Hugo, Voltaire, Rousseau, and Pierre and Marie Curi. On the border of the Latin Quarter, you’ll find the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens, which were inspired by the Boboli Gardens in Florence and created upon the initiative of Queen Marie de Medici in 1612.

6. WALK ON THE CHAMPS ELYSEES

Known as the ‘most beautiful avenue in the world’, the Champs Élysées has been synonymous with luxury and prestige for more than 100 years and is lined with cinemas, restaurants, and cafés. It is a showcase for France’s top brands such as Louis Vuitton, Guerlain, Ladurée, Dior, Lacoste, Cartier, Galeries Lafayette, as well as PSG and Séphora, open 7/7 and until late in the evening. On the first Sunday of each month, the avenue is closed to motor traffic and becomes the loveliest promenade in the world, for pedestrians and cyclists. At the top of the avenue, on Place Charles-de-Gaulle, is the Arc de Triomphe, a monument from the 19th century commissioned by Napoleon, as a tribute to his troops. At the start of the Champs Élysées is Paris’s largest square, the Place de la Concorde, home to a 3,200-year old Egyptian obelisk. During the French Revolution, more than 1,000 people were guillotined on the square, including Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette, and Robespierre.

5. VISIT MUSEE D’ORSAY

Musée d’Orsay is internationally renowned for housing the largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces in the world, by painters including Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, Seurat, Sisley, Gauguin, and Van Gogh. Many of these works were held at the Galerie nationale du Jeu de Paume prior to the museum’s opening in 1986. The museum’s collections represent all expressive forms, from painting to architecture, as well as sculpture, the decorative arts and photography. You’re sure to be dazzled by the beauty of the place: a train station that looks like a palace, inaugurated for the 1900 Universal Exposition. At the end of 2011, the museum reopened all of its entirely renovated spaces as well as some new rooms: Post-Impressionist artists at the heart of the museum, the redesign of the Impressionists gallery, a new temporary exhibition space, plus a new ‘aquatic’ decor for the Café des Hauteurs, designed by Brazilian designers, the Campana Brothers.

• Official website : Musée d’Orsay

4. EXPLORE MONTMARTRE

Featuring cobblestone streets, street art, and lively bistros, Montmartre is full of charm. Perched on the top of a small hill in the 18th arrondissement, the most famous Parisian district has lost none of its village atmosphere that appealed so much to the artists of the 19th and 20th centuries. A real melting pot of art and inspiration for the cinema, Montmartre still gives as much pleasure to those who stroll around it and figures high on the list for a stay in Paris. Montmartre’s top attraction is the Sacré-Cœur basilica, a place of worship in Romano-Byzantine style dedicated to the heart of Christ. For anunobstructed view over Paris, nothing beats the view from the forecourt of the building or, even better, that from the top of its majestic dome. Also, if there is one film associated with Montmartre, it is ‘Le Fabuleux Destin d’Amélie Poulain.’ This internationally-acclaimed film by Jean-Pierre Jeunet renders all the charm of the legendary district on the big screen. The cafe where Amélie worked still exists!

3. CLIMB THE EIFFEL TOWER

Also known as the Iron Lady, the Eiffel Tower (la Tour Eiffel) symbolizes the grandeur of Paris. Named after the engineer Gustave Eiffel, the tower was constructed from 1887 to 1889 as the entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair. It was initially criticised by some of France’s leading artists and intellectuals for its design, but it has become a global cultural icon of France and one of the most recognisable monuments in the world. The tower is 324 metres (1,063 ft) tall – about the same height as an 81-story building – and is comprised of 18,000 iron parts held together by 2.5 million rivets. Climbing the Eifel Tower is a highlight for many visitors to Paris: observation decks on the 1st, 2nd and top floor offer incredible panoramas over the City of Light. Be prepared though for long winding security lines and long waiting times for the elevators to get up the tower (booking your ticket online is highly recommended).

• Official website : Eiffel Tower

2. STROLL ALONG THE SEINE

Since the Gaulish Parisii tribe settled here in Roman times, Paris has been built up on either side of the Seine. The history of the city’s development can be followed along the banks of the river, which are a UNESCO World Heritage site. From historic monuments and architectural gems to waterfront developments, this walk – or cycle ride – will take you on a journey back in time. You can cross from one side to the other by one of the 37 bridges that connect the two sides of the city. This includes famous bridges like the majestic Pont Alexandre III (built in 1891 to celebrate the Franco-Russian alliance) and the Pont Neuf (Paris’ oldest bridge whose construction began in 1578). The riverside walk is especially beautiful on a warm and sunny spring or autumn day, when thousands of Parisians and tourists are flocking to the Seine’s riverbanks to enjoy the romantic views and have a drink.

1. SPEND A DAY AT THE LOUVRE

A visit to the Louvre lets you discover Western art from the Middle Ages to 1848, as well as a large number of ancient civilizations. Long before it became a museum, the building was the residence of the kings of France: first a dark fortress and then a stately palace home to French heads of state until 1870. After being redesigned, partially destroyed, and then rebuilt many times over, today it is a museum open to everyone. From here you can see the grand perspective stretching through the Tuileries Gardens and up the Champs Élysées. Considered to be one of the greatest museums in the world , visitors flock to the Louvre to see its extraordinary collections and incomparable masterpieces: Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’ of course, but also the ‘Venus de Milo’, the ‘Victory of Samothrace’, ‘Liberty guiding the People’ and the ‘Raft of the Medusa’, which are just some of a collection of more than 460,000 works, from ancient civilizations to the 1840s.

• Official website :  Louvre

Share this:

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)

Related Articles

Top 10 best luxury hotels in Paris

Monday newsletters always feature top 10 travel lists to inspire […]

Review: Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel (Paris, France)

Wednesday newsletters always feature a hotel or flight review […]

Top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world

Hey there, The Luxury Travel Expert! I just finished reading your article on the “Top 10 Best Things to See & Do in Paris,” and I must say, it’s an exceptional guide that showcases the absolute highlights of the City of Lights. Your selection of attractions and activities truly reflects the opulence and charm that Paris is renowned for.

I was delighted to see the iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral on your list. These are must-visit sites that capture the essence of Paris and its rich history. Your detailed descriptions and insightful tips accompanying each recommendation added depth and practicality to the article, making it a valuable resource for travelers.

I also appreciate the inclusion of lesser-known gems like the Musée d’Orsay and the Sainte-Chapelle. These hidden treasures offer a different perspective and allow visitors to discover the lesser-explored facets of Paris. Your passion for luxury travel shines through in your selection, as you’ve included experiences like shopping at Galeries Lafayette and indulging in French cuisine at Le Jules Verne, which truly elevate the Parisian experience. Furthermore, your suggestions for day trips to Versailles and Giverny expand the possibilities for travelers to delve deeper into the surrounding areas and appreciate the beauty beyond the city limits of Paris.

Thank you for compiling such a comprehensive and captivating list. Your expertise in luxury travel is evident, and your recommendations will undoubtedly enhance the experiences of those visiting Paris. I’ll definitely be referring back to your article when planning my next trip to the City of Lights. Keep up the exceptional work at The Luxury Travel Expert!

Highly Recommended to all. Who wants to visit World. For More information: https://tourstravelfinder.com/best-places-to-visit-in-paris/

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

© The Luxury Travel Expert 2024

Discover more from the Luxury Travel Expert

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Paris   Travel Guide

Courtesy of James Farley | Getty Images

32 Best Things to Do in Paris, France

If it's your first visit to Paris, you'll probably want to spend some time at the world-renowned  Eiffel Tower , the Louvre (home of the "Mona Lisa") and the Notre-Dame. Don't miss out on other notable city jewels either, such as the Musée

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)

U.S. News Insider Tip:  For the best photo opportunities of the Eiffel Tower, head to Place du Trocadéro. (Just expect to contend with some crowds!) – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Designed and constructed for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World's Fair), the Eiffel Tower was always meant to be a temporary structure, but it has skirted demolition twice. The first time, in 1909, the tower was kept around because of its potential as a transmission tower (an antenna was installed atop the tower). Gustav Eiffel, chief architect of the Eiffel Tower, had a variety of scientific experiments tested on the tower with the hope that any discoveries would help prolong its lifespan. One of these included a wireless transmissions test, which the tower passed with flying colors. During World War I, the Eiffel Tower's transmission capabilities enabled it to intercept communications from enemies as well as relay intel to troops on the ground. The second time the Eiffel Tower was almost destroyed was during the German occupation of France during World War II. Hitler planned to get rid of the tower, but never ended up going through with his plan.

Musée du Louvre Musée du Louvre

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The Louvre is free for all visitors on the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m. (except in July and August), and all day on Bastille Day (July 14). – Laura French  

If you only had time to visit one museum in Paris, it should undoubtedly be the Musée du Louvre. That's because the Louvre is not only widely considered to be one of the best art museums in Europe, but one of the best in the world. The museum first opened its doors in 1793 and features more than 35,000 works of art on display. Here, you can get up close to a variety of art from different time periods and cultures.

Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathedrale de Notre Dame de Paris) free

Note that the cathedral sustained significant damage as a result of a fire on April 15, 2019. Its wooden roof and spire collapsed during the fire. The interior of the cathedral remains closed to the public until further notice. It is set to reopen in December 2024. In the meantime, visitors can peruse a new exhibit that debuted in March 2023. It's located in an underground facility in front of the cathedral, the free exhibit highlights the ongoing construction work at the site, including the expertise of the workers, as well as some remains from the fire and works of art from the cathedral. There are also free, volunteer-led informational tours around the outside of the cathedral select days of the week. Consult this online calendar to see when English tours are offered.

Like the Eiffel Tower , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is seen as a Parisian icon. Located along the picturesque River Seine , the Notre-Dame Cathedral is considered a Gothic masterpiece and is often regarded as one of the best Gothic cathedrals of its kind in the world. Construction of the famous cathedral started in the late 12th century and final touches weren't made until nearly 200 years later. Once you get an eyeful of the cathedral yourself, you'll start to understand why it took so long.

Popular Tours

Eiffel Tower Second Floor Tour and Summit Option by Elevator

(3283 reviews)

from $ 59.94

Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise

(5310 reviews)

from $ 136.15

Louvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Reserved Access

(8732 reviews)

from $ 69.87

Champs-Élysées Champs-Élysées free

Musician Joe Dassin once sang "Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Élysées," which translates to "There's everything you could want along the Champs-Élysées." And he's right. Paris' most famous boulevard – stretching more than a mile from the glittering obelisk at Place de la Concorde to the foot of the Arc de Triomphe – is a shopper's mecca. Along its wide, tree-lined sidewalks, you'll find such luxury stores as Louis Vuitton and Chanel rubbing elbows with less-pricey establishments like Adidas and Zara.

While the Champs-Élysées is no doubt a shopping paradise, recent travelers noticed the price tags at most stores can be pretty high. And the more affordable options are constantly swamped with people. The Champs-Élysées itself is no different. Because this is such a famous street in Paris, expect there to be crowds galore, both during the day and the nighttime. Still, many travelers enjoyed taking in the Champs-Élysées' bustling atmosphere and observing both locals and tourists come and go. Some recent visitors said a trip to the Champs-Élysées is not complete without a stop at Ladurée, the city's famous macaron shop.

Arc de Triomphe Arc de Triomphe

Situated at the western end of the Champs-Élysées , the towering Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoléon to honor the Grande Armee during the Napoleonic Wars. The arch, which is the largest of its kind in the world, is adorned with several impressive, intricately carved sculptures. Underneath the arch, travelers will find the names of the battles fought during the first French Republic and Napolean's Empire, as well as generals who fought in them. Travelers will also find the famous tomb of The Unknown Soldier. The unknown soldier currently buried there is meant to represent all the unidentified or unaccounted for soldiers who lost their lives during World War I. The flame that was lit when the soldier was laid to rest has not extinguished since it was initially lit in the 1920s, and is rekindled every night at 6:30 p.m. by a member of the armed services.

Aside from admiring the arch, visitors can climb to the top and take in the Parisian panorama. Most visitors are wowed by the immense size of the structure and recommend ascending to the top for the spectacular Paris views. Visitors caution that you'll have to wait in line to get to the top and the climb, which is made up of hundreds of stairs, can be a serious workout.

Latin Quarter Latin Quarter free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're in the area, check out the Grand Mosquée de Paris, next to the Jardin des Plantes. It's a beautiful mosque with a hidden-away courtyard, and there's an atmospheric tearoom attached that serves Middle Eastern sweet treats. – Laura French

Architecture lovers should not miss the Latin Quarter. Also known as the 5th arrondissement, the Latin Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris. Its narrow cobblestone streets, winding whimsically through the larger city grid, recall its medieval history. Why does this densely packed neighborhood of attractions, shops and restaurants retain this unique character? It escaped Baron Haussmann's planning reform of the city, thus retaining a more ancient ambience.

Best Paris Tours

Paris Tours

18 Best Paris Tours of 2024: Food, Versailles & More

Jan. 19, 2024

Seine River Seine River free

You won’t have much trouble finding the Seine, as it flows directly through the heart of Paris. The river is perhaps one of the most famous waterways in the world and an attraction in itself. It's also useful for more practical reasons: It flows from east to west, dividing the city into the Left Bank and the Right Bank. Knowing where you are in relation to the Seine can help you find your way around during your trip.

For tourists, the waterway mostly serves as a photo backdrop, but it is a lifeline for locals. It's a reliable water supply, a major transportation route and vital for many kinds of commerce. It has also served as a source of sustenance for many fishermen dating back to the third century. In 1991, the Seine River was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural significance in both the past and the present.

Musée d'Orsay Musée d'Orsay

U.S. News Insider Tip: Visit on the first Sunday of the month for free entry (when it’s also free to enter the Centre Pompidou, Musée de l'Orangerie, Musée du Rodin, Musée Picasso and several other attractions). – Laura French

Housed in a former railway station along the Left Bank, the Musée d'Orsay is regarded for its rich collection of impressionist works. You'll see paintings by French artists like Degas, Monet, Cezanne and Van Gogh, among many, many others. The museum also houses a number of sculptures, as well as photography and even furniture displays. And if you climb to the museum's top balcony, you can catch a breathtaking view of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica through the museum's massive transparent clock.

Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music by Bateaux Mouches

(3018 reviews)

from $ 131.01

Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator with Summit option

(2076 reviews)

from $ 70.97

Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour from Paris

(1183 reviews)

from $ 88.43

Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Pick up picnic provisions at a nearby farmer's market, such as Marché Raspail, to enjoy in the gardens. –  Ann Henson, Assistant Managing Editor

A warm-weather oasis that offers the simplest of pleasures, the Luxembourg Gardens provide ample green space (60 acres) for sun-soaking and people-watching, plus there are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. When the city bustle becomes too overwhelming, meander around the paths and formal gardens, or just relax with a picnic. Kids can float sailboats at the Grand Basin, ride ponies, take a spin on the merry-go-round, or catch a puppet show at the on-site Theatre des Marionnettes. Adults might delight in the on-site Musée du Luxembourg, the first French museum that was opened to the public. Though with 106 sculptures to its name, including a replica of the Statue of Liberty, the Luxembourg Gardens could easily be considered an open-air museum itself.

Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur) free

Rising high above Paris, the Sacré-Coeur (meaning "Sacred Heart") looks more like a white castle than a basilica. Towering over the eclectic neighborhood of Montmartre (once a hangout for Paris' bohemian crowd), this Roman-Byzantine, 19th-century masterpiece is easily recognized by its ornate ivory domes. As blanched as it may appear on the outside, the basilica's interior is a sight worth beholding: The ceilings glitter with France's largest mosaic, which depicts Jesus rising alongside the Virgin Mary and Joan of Arc.

You'll also likely be left in awe with the panoramic views found from atop the Sacré-Coeur's outdoor staircase. But for an even better photo-op, climb all 300 steps to the top of the dome. The dome is accessible to visitors every day from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mass is held multiple times a day every day.

Centre Pompidou Centre Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou is one of the most visited cultural sites in Paris. But keep this in mind – and recent travelers attest to this – if you're not a fan of modern art, you probably won't enjoy this museum. The Pompidou is all modern and contemporary art (think cubist, surrealist and pop art, among others). Even its exterior is a little "out there," with its insides (piping, plumbing, elevators, escalators, etc.) exposed on the outside.

Inside the inside-out museum, you'll find one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world (more than 120,000 pieces of art are in its complete collection). The most notable attraction within is France's National Museum of Modern Art, which features works from 20th and 21st-century artists. Here, you can find big names such as Matisse, Picasso and even Andy Warhol. Also within the Centre Pompidou is additional exhibition and entertainment spaces as well as a library, rooftop restaurant and cinemas.

Jardin des Tuileries Jardin des Tuileries free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While you’re here, don’t miss Angelina, just across the street on Rue de Rivoli. This historic, belle epoque-style salon de thé opened in 1903 and serves excellent French delicacies and pastries alongside its famous, indulgently rich hot chocolate. – Laura French

Centrally located between the Louvre and the Place de la Concorde, the Jardin des Tuileries is a free public garden that spans approximately 55 acres. Though it was initially designed solely for the use of the royal family and court, the park was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1991 (as part of the Banks of the Seine) and has been open to the public since the 17th century.

Sainte-Chapelle Sainte-Chapelle

Nowhere in Paris does stained-glass windows quite as well as Sainte-Chapelle. The panes – dating back to the chapel's construction in the 13th century – depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments of the Bible in vivid color. Sainte-Chapelle, which took just seven years to build, is a treasured example of French Gothic architecture and originally held Christian artifacts acquired by Louis IX. The building underwent a rigorous restoration between 2008 and 2014 and now welcomes visitors every day of the year except Christmas Day, New Year's Day and May 1 (France's Labor Day).

Admission costs 13 euros (about $14) per person ages 18 and older. Audio guides are available in English (among other languages) for an additional 3 euros (about $3.50). 

Skip The Line Eiffel Tower with Optional Summit Access by Lift

(56 reviews)

from $ 12.01

Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris

(2766 reviews)

from $ 173.59

Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise

(1925 reviews)

from $ 86.58

Pantheon Pantheon

Situated in the Latin Quarter – or the 5th arrondissement – of Paris, the Panthéon is a large church and burial ground with a storied history. The structure was completed in 1790 at the start of the French Revolution, and it served as a mausoleum, a church and an art gallery throughout its early years. In 1851, scientist Leon Foucault installed the Foucault pendulum within the building to demonstrate the rotation of the Earth. The pendulum was removed and replaced a number of times, and a replica was installed in 1995 and is still in operation today. The Panthéon also contains a crypt where a number of important historians, philosophers, scientists and writers are buried, including Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Marie Curie.

Most recent travelers loved seeing the museum's noteworthy gravesites and Foucault's pendulum. They also recommended taking a dome tour for exceptional views of Paris; you’ll see the Eiffel Tower from the top, as well as many other well-known landmarks. Still, some visitors said the admission fee is too high.

Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris Palais Garnier - Opera National de Paris

A masterpiece of architectural opulence, the Opéra Garnier – also known as the Palais Garnier – still exudes the opulence it radiated in the late 1800s. This palpable sense of intrigue and mystery that permeates the opera is due in part to its awe-inspiring Old-World interiors as well as Gaston Leroux, the author of "Phantom of the Opera," for which the Garnier served as his inspiration. Leroux claimed the phantom was indeed real, successfully incorporating real life opera occurrences (such as the chandelier falling and killing a bystander) into his fiction. The Garnier's lack of a robust historical record, as well as Leroux's writing talents, have left many wondering if there really was a dweller that lurked beneath the opera. Staff have claimed otherwise, but say with the opera's very real underground "lake" (water tank), it's easy to see how the story could be so convincing. Without Napoleon III, who was responsible for commissioning the opera, Leroux's tale may never have never come to fruition.

The best way to fully experience the Palais Garnier is by purchasing a ballet or opera ticket. Remember to book your tickets several months in advance, as performances are highly coveted. If you won't be in town for a performance or aren't up for forking over the oftentimes high price of a performance, you can explore the building's magnificent interiors on your own.

Le Marais Le Marais free

U.S. News Insider Tip: On Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest square, you’ll find the former house of Victor Hugo, which is now a museum that’s free to enter. – Laura French

Straddling the 3rd and 4th arrondissements (districts), Le Marais is one of Paris' oldest and coolest districts – so cool, in fact, that French writer Victor Hugo (author of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" and "Les Misérables") called it home. With all of its cobblestone streets, stately stone architecture and tucked away courtyards, it's easy to feel as if you're strolling through medieval Paris. Back in the day, Le Marais housed some notable French royalty. King Henry IV was the one responsible for the construction of the Place des Vosges, Paris' oldest square. And Louis XIV called this neighborhood home for a while until he decided to move his family and court to Versailles . Much of Le Marais also survived the destruction of the French Revolution.

Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles) Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)

U.S. News Insider Tip: In summer, the palace hosts weekend fountain shows in the gardens, featuring music and special effects; come on a Saturday night to see the best, with grounds lit up to magical effect and a firework display at the end. – Laura French

The Château de Versailles, the sprawling palace and former seat of power, is located 10 miles southwest of Paris in Versailles. Every year, nearly 10 million travelers make the trek from Paris to bear witness to the chateau's world-famous grandeur in person. But between all of the gold figurines, dramatic frescoes and cascading crystal chandeliers you'll no doubt find in bulk throughout the chateau, you might be surprised to learn that King Louis XIV's extravagant former residence had pretty humble-ish beginnings.

Musée Rodin Musée Rodin

A hidden jewel in the city, the Musée Rodin is actually the former residence of famed 19th-century sculptor Auguste Rodin. But in the place of furniture and kitschy lawn ornaments are Rodin's emotive sculptures, including The Walking Man, The Kiss and The Thinker, among many more. In addition to the sculptures, the museum houses 8,000 of the artist's drawings in its collection – a fraction of those are on display –  as well as an area dedicated to the work of his muse and mistress, artist Camille Claudel. Visitors will also get to view pieces from the Rodin's personal art collection, including paintings by Van Gogh.

Recent travelers found Rodin's sculptures to be nothing short of stunning, and highly recommend a visit even if you don't consider yourself an art buff. Another big favorite, and for some visitors as much of a highlight as the art, were the beautiful on-site gardens. To travelers, the gardens, in combination with the museum's manageable size, created a serene and peaceful atmosphere not easily found at other top Parisian museums.

Versailles Guided Tour and Priority Access with Hotel Pickup

(767 reviews)

from $ 97.17

Louvre Museum Guided Tour Option or Quick access to Mona Lisa

(4039 reviews)

from $ 69.76

Paris Croissant Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef

(400 reviews)

from $ 163.77

Saint-Germain-des-Prés Saint-Germain-des-Prés free

The arts abound in Paris. Although visual art gets the most attention here, the city is also a historic literary center. Saint-Germain, in the 6th arrondissement, is known as a 19th- and 20th-century intellectual hub. Here, great writers, thinkers and artists mixed and mingled in their homes and nearby establishments. Anyone battling writer's block will want to spend an afternoon wandering its picturesque streets, stopping by famous literary cafes or enjoying one of the museums located in the neighborhood's borders.

After filling your mind at the Musée Delacroix, Musée du Luxembourg or Musée de Mineralogie, unwind at Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore. The former was visited by everyone from Ernest Hemingway, Simone de Beauvoir, James Joyce, Jean-Paul Sartre, and more recently, Julia Child. Nearby Café de Flore opened in the 1800s as well, and claims visitors from Leon Trotsky to Albert Camus to Picasso. Sartre worked from here – using the space as a historical Starbucks – while New Wave celebrities like Bridget Bardot or fashionista Karl Lagerfeld graced its seats later on, in the 1960s. There are plenty of mouthwatering pastry shops and bridge views, too.

Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann free

Whether or not you plan to shop, the Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann department store is a sight to be seen. What started as a small novelty shop in 1893 has since grown into an approximately 750,000-square-foot megastore containing hundreds of brands, from budget-friendly options like Levi's and Carhartt to high-end labels like Prada and Cartier. And while you might be dazzled by the unending collection of fashionable goods, don’t forget to look up. The pièce de résistance of the luxury bazaar is the stunning neo-Byzantine glass dome 141 feet above the ground. There's also a glass walkway on the top floor of the building that allows the bravest of visitors to stand above all the action below. 

Several recent visitors called Galeries Lafayette the most beautiful shopping center in the world, pointing out that even if you aren't there to buy luxury products, the stunning building is a destination in itself. They also recommend going up to the roof of the complex (accessible from the eighth floor), which is open to visitors free of charge, to take in breathtaking views of the city below. From the roof, you'll be able to spot the Eiffel Tower , Sacré Cœur and Notre Dame .

Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes de Paris) Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes de Paris)

Not every inch of Paris is as romantic as you think – in fact, the Catacombs are downright chilling. Prior to the creation of the Catacombs in the late 18th century, Parisians buried their dead in cemeteries. But as the city continued to grow, burial grounds ran out of space, graves started to become exposed and stunk up surrounding neighborhoods. The limestone quarries located 65 feet beneath Paris eventually became the solution, providing ample and safe space for the city's deceased loved ones. It took years to move millions of bodies from all the Parisian graves.

Today, the solemn, skull-and-boned lined tunnels weave beneath the heart of the City of Love, beckoning to visitors with an interest in the departed. The catacombs stretch for miles all over the city, but visitors are only allowed to access about a mile's worth for 45 minutes at the Denfert-Rochereau (lines 4,6 and RER B) metro station. Trying to access the catacombs at any other entrance throughout the city is illegal. You'll want to wear sturdy footwear as the paths inside are full of gravel, uneven and even slippery in some sections. What's more, you'll have to descend 131 steps and climb 112 steps back up. As such, the catacombs are not wheelchair-accessible. And because of the attraction's unique nature and popularity, expect a queue.

Pere-Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise) Pere-Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetiere du Pere-Lachaise) free

A cemetery as a tourist attraction? If any city can pull it off, it's Paris. Covering nearly 110 acres of the 20th arrondissement (district), the Père-Lachaise Cemetery is considered one of the most beautiful cemeteries in the world. It's also Paris' largest green space. Père-Lachaise is a maze of cobblestone pathways lined with leafy, cascading trees which perfectly shade the striking 19th-century burial chambers that permeate the grounds. Aesthetics aside, Père-Lachaise is one of the world's most famous burial grounds: Everyone from Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison to Edith Piaf and Gertrude Stein can be found here. Make sure to pick up a map before you venture in, there are more than 100,000 burial plots here (exact estimates vary dramatically).

Travelers admitted the main reason they made the trek to Père-Lachaise was to visit the famous faces buried here, though after discovering the enchanting grounds, they were happy to stay and wander. Visitors found the architecture of the individual tombstones and burial chambers to be stunning, especially with the many dramatic statues included with the plots. Others particularly appreciate the overall peaceful atmosphere of Père-Lachaise. Because the cemetery is so big, visitors say it's unlikely you'll be sharing lots of space with fellow visitors or tourists at any given time.

Bateaux Mouches Bateaux Mouches

For those who want to cruise down the Seine River , hopping on one of the six Bateaux-Mouches boats is a go-to option. Just about any meal you can think of is offered as you glide along the river – or as the company puts it, Paris's "most beautiful avenue." There are also hourlong cruise-only trips, for those who want to efficiently view some of the city's most iconic sights, including Notre Dame and the Musée d'Orsay . These cruises are among the best Paris tours . Combo tickets that include a bus tour or a cabaret show are also available.

Travelers who recently took a cruise loved the views from the boat and the informational nature of the tour. Many people took a night cruise, which was frequently lauded for its romantic atmosphere. However, a few visitors expressed disappointment with meal portions and the check-in process.

Paris Seine River Private Boat Tour

(975 reviews)

from $ 435.62

Louvre Museum - Exclusive Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)

(3382 reviews)

from $ 144.66

Normandy D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery Day Trip from Paris

(2434 reviews)

from $ 205.27

Musee de l'Orangerie Musee de l'Orangerie

An extension of Musée d'Orsay , Musée de l'Orangerie features a wide selection of impressionist and post-impressionist art. It is best known for its enlarged "Water Lilies" paintings by Claude Monet. The eight massive paintings are divided across two oval rooms that are filled with natural light from a glass roof. Monet increased the size of these paintings with the intention of fully immersing viewers in their beauty, especially after the hardships of World War I. Beyond the "Water Lilies" series, Musée de l'Orangerie houses the Jean Walter-Paul Guillaume collection, which features works by artists like Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso, Matisse and more.  

Museum visitors – especially Monet fans – said this gallery is a must-see. They were pleased to discover it was a relatively small building, meaning it can be seen fairly quickly if you short on time. The smaller space also translates to less crowds, which many museumgoers appreciated.

Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck

U.S. News Insider Tip: Walk about 10 minutes around the corner and you’ll find the Montparnasse Cemetery – a fascinating alternative to Père Lachaise , home to the burial places of artists and intellectuals, including Jean-Paul Sartre, Samuel Beckett, Guy de Maupassant and Charles Baudelaire. – Laura French

The Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck claims to have the best views in Paris – and once you reach the top, it's easy to see why. The lower deck stands more than 650 feet high and overlooks major attractions, like the Eiffel Tower , through floor-to-ceiling windows. Travel another 32 feet upward to the rooftop terrace, and you'll find panoramic vistas of the City of Lights 365 days a year. On a clear day, you can see as far as 25 miles in every direction.

Moulin Rouge Moulin Rouge

If you're looking for the famed Parisian nightlife experience, Moulin Rouge will likely fit the bill. The legendary cabaret club opened in 1889, wowing crowds with dazzling dancers, free-flowing Champagne and outrageous elements like a gigantic model elephant in the garden. With its rich history and extravagant performances, Moulin Rouge has become an important staple in the City of Lights.

On a night at the Moulin Rouge, visitors can be wined and dined while watching talented burlesque dancers adorned in feathers, rhinestones and sequins. While many recent travelers felt that the show was a spectacular must-see while vacationing in Paris, others felt it was overhyped and overcrowded. However, those who opted for the dinner show said the food was fantastic with top-notch service to match.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont Parc des Buttes-Chaumont free

Paris is home to many beautiful public parks, where visitors and locals alike relax in grassy squares during periods of pleasant weather. Parc de Buttes-Chaumont's 61 acres boasts this – plus a lake, a suspension bridge and walking paths – and a dark history. Its name comes from the bare hill once occupying the site. Stone was mined here, sewage dumped and even horse carcasses discarded. When Napoleon III renovated Paris in the 19th century, it was selected as a large park site, and the artificial lake created. That transformation also washed away its medieval reputation as a gallows. Known as Gibbet of Montfaucon at that time, the bodies of people executed in the city were sometimes displayed here for months on end.

If you can put that history behind you, cross the Gustave Eiffel-designed suspension bridge, or ascend the hill with the Temple de la Sybille for beautiful views of Montmartre. Inside the hillside, quarrying created a cavern. Napoleon's park builders took the opportunity to add a human-made waterfall to the 65-foot-tall space. Summer visitors will especially enjoy the misty reprieve from Paris's heat and humidity.

Conciergerie Conciergerie

Located next to Sainte-Chapelle , the Conciergerie was once a royal residence for various French leaders. At the end of the 14th century, King Charles V and the rest of the palace's inhabitants moved to new residences at the Louvre . The abandoned building was then turned into a new parliament and office space for the kingdom. However, during the French Revolution (and for many decades thereafter), the Conciergerie served as a prison compound to hold both political and common criminals. Most famously, it held Marie Antoinette, the fallen queen of France, in the weeks before she was executed by guillotine in October 1793. In the 19th century, Antoinette's cell was transformed into a chapel, and in 1914 the entire building was deemed a historic monument and opened to the public.

Recent travelers said the site is a delight for history buffs. Still, others noted that if you aren’t particularly interested in the French Revolution or Marie Antoinette, you may find the empty jail cells and barren halls a bit dull. All visitors are given a "HistoPad" (available in six languages) to help enhance their experience. The iPad allows visitors to see what the rooms would've looked like centuries ago with the help of augmented reality, 3D reconstructions and interactive functionalities.What everyone seemed to agree on was the medieval architecture, which is said to be stunning both inside and out.

Eiffel Tower Guided Access to 2nd Floor with Summit Option

(4211 reviews)

from $ 42.58

Paris Capitaine Fracasse 3 Course Seine River Dinner Cruise

(539 reviews)

from $ 51.31

Paris Macarons Small-Group Baking Class with a Chef

(136 reviews)

from $ 151.76

Rue de Rivoli Rue de Rivoli free

One of the most famous shopping streets in Paris, the elegant Rue de Rivoli is lined with neoclassical buildings housing designer boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants built into historic arcades.

Named after Napoleon's victory at the Battle of Rivoli and stretching from Place de la Bastille in the east to Place de la Concorde, it's where you'll find the Louvre , the Jardin des Tuileries , Hôtel de Ville (Paris's elaborate city hall) and other attractions. It's also home to the Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville – an elaborate department store founded in 1856. Other shops range from affordable brands like Sephora, L'Occitane and Mango to high-end designer stores and local French boutiques.

Bois de Vincennes Bois de Vincennes free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Come in the summer to catch the Paris Jazz Festival, when the Parc Floral hosts performers from Paris and beyond. – Laura French

Used as a royal hunting ground from the 12th century, this scenic, easterly refuge is Paris's biggest park, sprawling nearly 2,500 acres (making it nearly three times larger than New York's Central Park , and slightly bigger than its westerly sister, the Bois de Boulogne). It's home to verdant woodland as well as the Parc Floral, a botanical garden with its own mini golf course and various other family-friendly attractions. You'll also find four artificial lakes in the park – boats are available to rent on the Lac Daumesnil – alongside the Parc Zoologique de Paris, several cafes and restaurants and the Château de Vincennes, a lavish former royal residence built in the medieval era.

Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen free

Set on the northern edge of Paris and home to the highest concentration of antiques dealers in the world, this famous flea market is a must for anyone looking to browse and buy vintage treasures. Spread across twelve covered markets and five streets, the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen houses everything from 17th-century furnishings to vintage jewelry, designer clothes, art, books and beyond. When your feet need a break, there are also a handful of restaurants.

At its heart is the Marché Vernaison, an eclectic mishmash of nearly a million objects, spread across nearly 100,000 square feet and selling pretty much anything you can think of. Equally unmissable is the Marché Dauphine, which sells books, vintage records, clothes and more in a huge pavilion, and the Marché Paul Bert Serpette, an upmarket spot specializing in avant-garde interior design that's seen everyone from Julia Roberts to Mick Jagger grace its floors.

Louis Vuitton Foundation Louis Vuitton Foundation

Open to the public since October 2014, the Louis Vuitton Foundation is the brainchild of the LVMH Group (which owns luxury fashion brand Louis Vuitton) and famed American architect Frank Gehry. In addition to the art gallery, Gehry also designed the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles , among other renowned museums, university buildings and residences.

Outfitted with curved panels of glass and smooth concrete, the foundation's daring and modern design stands out among Paris' abundance of centuries-old buildings. Inside, you'll find collections of modern and contemporary art housed in both permanent and temporary exhibits. The museum's goal is to promote art and culture on the outskirts of Paris, and it succeeds by attracting more than 1 million visitors each year. 

Explore More of Paris

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

20 Unique and Luxury Experiences in Paris

Ah, Paris! The city of lights, love, and luxury. A place where the wine flows as freely as the Seine, where each cobblestone street tells a story, and where the aroma of freshly baked baguettes mingles with the allure of high fashion.

But, mon ami, if you think you’ve seen all that Paris has to offer, think again.

Beyond the iconic Eiffel Tower, the historic Notre Dame, and the art-filled halls of the Louvre, the French capital hides a treasure trove of unique and luxurious experiences, waiting to be discovered.

In this article, we’ve curated a list of 20 luxury experiences in Paris. From tasting world-renowned cuisine in opulent Michelin-star restaurants, to exploring hidden vintage boutiques in the Marais, and boarding a private cruise down the Seine, these experiences promise a taste of the exclusive, the exquisite, and the extraordinary.

So, ready to trade in the familiar for the fantastic?

Say ‘au revoir’ to the ordinary and ‘bonjour’ to a Paris that is as majestic as it is mystical.

Read on, as we embark on an unforgettable voyage through Paris, sprinkled with luxury and laced with the unique.

Table of Contents

Best Luxury Things to do in Paris

1. a royal retreat at le meurice.

My journey in Paris started with the discovery of Le Meurice , an iconic hotel whose grandeur evokes the majesty of the Versailles Palace.

Anointed as the “ hotel of kings ,” Le Meurice holds an imposing presence in the heart of Paris, facing the Tuileries Garden. Its interior is adorned with lavish marbles, grand chandeliers, and intricate gold leaf detailing, promising the true Parisian luxury experience.

Every inch of Le Meurice whispers a tale of opulence. The service is as flawless as the hand-painted frescoes adorning the ceilings. From the moment I stepped in, I was treated like royalty with a warm, personalized welcome. Each suite, luxuriously furnished and draped in silky Charles Jouffre fabrics, offers an exceptional view of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.

Even dining at Le Meurice is an immersive experience. Alain Ducasse ’s gastronomic restaurant brings the best of French cuisine to your table, presented with an artistic flair that makes each dish look like a masterpiece. The hotel’s Bar 228 offers a cozy, club-like ambiance where I unwound with some of the city’s best-crafted cocktails.

2. The Epitome of Luxury Shopping: Le Bon Marché

In Paris, luxury shopping is not just an activity; it’s a cultural experience. And nowhere is this more evident than at Le Bon Marché , the city’s oldest department store. Le Bon Marché, in its essence, is a temple of high-end consumerism where Parisians and tourists alike can find a selection of curated designer goods, high fashion, and gourmet food items.

The shopping experience at Le Bon Marché is unlike any other. The store’s airy, art-filled spaces, and beautifully designed displays offer a sense of tranquility and sophistication that only adds to the allure of the brands it houses. I found myself lost amidst fashion powerhouses such as Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and more.

What sets Le Bon Marché apart is its dedication to personalized services. For a shopping experience like no other, I opted for their personal shopping service. An experienced stylist guided me through the latest collections, handpicking items that perfectly matched my style and preferences.

3. Culinary Excellence at Le Cinq

The next stop on my luxury exploration of Paris was Le Cinq , a three-Michelin-star restaurant housed in the Four Seasons Hotel George V. Upon entering, I was struck by the ornate, golden decor, which seemed to radiate the sunlight that streamed in through the grand windows.

Chef Christian Le Squer, at the helm of Le Cinq, is renowned for his ability to create a harmonious blend of flavors while honoring traditional French cooking techniques. I was blown away by the exquisite menu, each dish a testament to Le Squer’s innovative culinary genius. Each course, from the melt-in-your-mouth foie gras to the sweet symphony of their signature dessert, was a love letter to the rich tradition of French cuisine.

The sommelier at Le Cinq deserves a special mention. His wine recommendations, perfectly paired with each course, elevated my dining experience to a level I’d never experienced before. From the ambiance to the food and the excellent service, dining at Le Cinq was truly a memorable part of my Paris journey.

4. The Parisian High-Tea Experience at Angelina

Tea time is a sacred ritual in Paris, and no one does it better than Angelina . Since its establishment in 1903, Angelina has become a beloved rendezvous among the Parisian gourmets and a hotspot for luxury travelers seeking a taste of Parisian elegance.

Entering Angelina feels like stepping back in time. The Belle Epoque style interiors, decked with large mirrors, frescoes, and marble-topped tables, exude an old-world charm. The moment I was seated, I found myself transported to an era of sophistication and grace.

But the real magic begins when you start sipping their signature hot chocolate, named ‘African Hot Chocolate.’ This velvety, decadent concoction is the embodiment of luxury, made from a blend of three carefully selected kinds of African cocoa. Paired with their famous Mont-Blanc pastry, a heavenly combination of meringue, whipped cream, and chestnut cream vermicelli, this high tea experience is something that will linger in my taste buds forever.

5. Discover the Art of Perfumery at Maison Francis Kurkdjian

Delving into the world of French perfumery was next on my list, and there couldn’t have been a better place than the Maison Francis Kurkdjian for it. The brand, co-founded by master perfumer Francis Kurkdjian, is renowned for its exceptional perfumes that narrate beautiful stories.

The boutique, nestled in the Rue d’Alger, is a perfume lover’s paradise. I was greeted by the mesmerizing aroma of various perfumes that filled the air, each scent more captivating than the other. Guided by expert consultants, I embarked on a sensory journey exploring the wide range of perfumes, each crafted meticulously with the finest of ingredients.

The highlight was the personalized perfume consultation. Through a detailed conversation about my preferences and lifestyle, the consultant created a unique scent profile for me and recommended perfumes that would best express my personality. It was an intimate, luxury experience, making me appreciate the art of perfumery on a whole new level.

6. A Private Tour of The Louvre

What’s a visit to Paris without exploring its artistic treasures? But instead of joining the throngs of tourists at The Louvre , I opted for a private after-hours tour. The world’s largest art museum is a monument of Paris, and having it all to myself was an experience I’ll never forget.

The tour began as the last echoes of the day’s visitors faded away, leaving me alone with my knowledgeable guide in the grand halls of The Louvre. Under the warm glow of the evening lights, the masterpieces of art, including the enigmatic Mona Lisa, seemed even more awe-inspiring.

But this was not just a viewing; it was a journey through the annals of history. Each artifact, each painting, has a story to tell, and my guide brought these to life with his fascinating insights. I explored at my own pace, lingered at the artworks that intrigued me, and left with a deeper understanding and appreciation of art.

7. Luxury Shopping on the Champs-Élysées

If there’s one thing Paris is famous for apart from its rich culture and history, it’s fashion. And there’s no better place to indulge in high-end retail therapy than the iconic Champs-Élysées . Known as ‘the world’s most beautiful avenue,’ it’s home to an array of designer boutiques and luxury flagship stores.

I started my shopping expedition at the Louis Vuitton Maison, an architectural wonder where you can find the brand’s full range of fashion, leather goods, and accessories. Strolling down the avenue, I explored other luxury fashion houses like Gucci, Hugo Boss, and Cartier. Each store is a universe in itself, showcasing the latest trends and timeless classics in a magnificent setting.

But the shopping experience in Champs-Élysées is not just about fashion. There’s also Ladurée, where you can buy the world-famous macarons, and the Lido, where you can book a show with dinner for a quintessential Parisian night out.

So, when you walk down this grand avenue, you’re not just shopping; you’re experiencing Paris at its finest.

8. Fine Dining at Le Meurice Alain Ducasse

To truly experience the luxury of Paris, you must indulge in its gastronomy, and the Le Meurice Alain Ducasse is the perfect place for that. Overlooking the Tuileries Garden, this restaurant, guided by the culinary genius of Alain Ducasse, offers an exceptional fine dining experience that transcends beyond the ordinary.

From the moment I walked in, I was captivated by the elegant Versailles-style dining room, embellished with crystal chandeliers, antique mirrors, and marble. But the star of the show is, undoubtedly, the food. Drawing inspiration from authentic French cuisine, Chef Ducasse creates dishes that are simple, yet profoundly sophisticated.

From the freshest ingredients to the impeccable presentation, every detail is painstakingly taken care of, making each dish a masterpiece. Paired with their extensive selection of fine wines, the dining experience at Le Meurice is a symphony of tastes and textures that will resonate with your palate long after the meal.

9. VIP Tour of The Palace of Versailles

A trip to Paris would be incomplete without a visit to the Palace of Versailles . An epitome of absolute monarchy and the seat of royal power in its heyday, this grand château is a testament to the architectural brilliance and opulence of the French royalty.

I opted for a VIP private tour to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site. As I walked through the ornate Hall of Mirrors, the grand apartments, and the sprawling gardens, I marveled at the intricate designs, the rich tapestries, and the stunning art collection that adorn the palace.

What made the experience truly memorable was the behind-the-scenes access to the private apartments of Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, areas that are usually off-limits to the public. The grandeur of these private chambers, the intimate royal chapel, and the Opera House left me in awe of the royal lifestyle of the bygone era.

10. Art Appreciation at Fondation Louis Vuitton

A visit to Paris wouldn’t be complete without paying homage to its robust art scene, and the Fondation Louis Vuitton offers just the perfect opportunity for that. An art museum and cultural center sponsored by the group LVMH and its subsidiaries, the Fondation is nestled in the heart of the Bois de Boulogne.

The building itself, designed by Frank Gehry, is a work of art with its stunning glass architecture. Stepping inside, I was greeted by a diverse collection of contemporary art. The Fondation is dedicated to promoting and supporting artistic creation on an international level, and it truly reflected in the wide array of exhibits.

The museum has an ever-changing program, focusing on works that have never been seen in France before. Its commitment to encourage and promote creativity makes it a must-visit place for art enthusiasts.

11. Enjoy a Glass of Champagne at The Eiffel Tower’s Le Jules Verne

For an unforgettable dining experience, head to Le Jules Verne , located within the Eiffel Tower itself. This Michelin-starred restaurant, helmed by Chef Frédéric Anton, offers an exquisite gourmet experience paired with a breathtaking view of the City of Lights.

As I stepped into the private lift that ascended to the restaurant, I could feel the anticipation building up. And, I was not disappointed. The panoramic view of Paris from the tower was simply mesmerizing, with the city lights painting a dreamy landscape.

The menu boasted of refined French cuisine, each dish crafted with precision and creativity.

However, it was savoring a glass of champagne, specially selected from the restaurant’s impressive cellar, with the stunning Parisian skyline as the backdrop, that made the evening truly magical.

12. A Night at the Opéra Garnier

When it comes to enjoying a luxurious night in Paris, nothing beats the opulence of the Opéra Garnier . Also known as the Palais Garnier, this 1,979-seat opera house is a symbol of Paris’s rich cultural history.

With a design that is as grand as the performances it hosts, the opera house is adorned with marble, gold, and velvet, with a massive chandelier hanging from the painted ceiling. The moment I stepped inside, I was transported to an era of unmatched luxury and glamour.

The experience of watching a ballet or opera here, amidst the beautiful frescoes and sculptures, is quite unmatched. As the curtains lifted and the performance commenced, I was enthralled by the talent and passion that radiated from the stage. This is a place where art, history, and luxury blend seamlessly to give you an experience like no other.

13. A Peaceful Afternoon at Albert Kahn Musee et Jardins

Next, I found myself wandering through the dreamy and peaceful landscapes of the Albert Kahn Musee et Jardins , a unique gem hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Kahn, a wealthy banker and philanthropist, was known for his love of gardens and photography. He bought a plot of land and turned it into a paradise of different garden styles from around the world.

Walking through the verdant paths, I found myself in an English garden, then a French one, a Japanese village, and even a blue forest filled with cedar and blueberry bushes. Each section transported me to a different corner of the world, all within the boundaries of Paris.

Aside from the gardens, the museum houses a vast collection of Kahn’s autochromes and black and white photographs, which document early 20th-century life. It’s a perfect blend of history, beauty, and tranquillity that should be on every luxury traveler’s list.

14. Luxury Shopping at Avenue Montaigne

Of course, a trip to Paris wouldn’t be complete without some high-end shopping, and Avenue Montaigne is just the place for that. Located at the 8th arrondissement, this elegant avenue is lined with a constellation of luxury fashion houses and upscale boutiques.

With the likes of Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Valentino showcasing their creations, it’s the perfect place for a luxury shopping spree. As I wandered through these stylish boutiques, I couldn’t help but appreciate the quality and craftsmanship that went into each item. This wasn’t just shopping; it was an experience in itself.

15. Unwind at Le Meurice Spa Valmont

After all the sightseeing and shopping, it’s time to relax and pamper yourself, and the Le Meurice Spa Valmont is the perfect place to do so. This luxury spa, tucked away in the prestigious Le Meurice hotel, is an oasis of tranquility and rejuvenation.

With an array of treatments and therapies based on the Swiss cellular cosmetic expertise of Valmont, the spa is dedicated to wellness and beauty. As I lay back and enjoyed a signature treatment, I could feel the stress melting away, leaving me refreshed and ready to explore more of this beautiful city.

16. Embark on a Private Boat Tour Along the Seine

Imagine sailing along the Seine as the city of Paris twinkles around you – sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? I made this dream a reality by chartering a private boat tour. The Seine is Paris’ lifeblood, and viewing the city from this vantage point is nothing short of magical.

By day, the waters glisten under the sun, offering clear views of iconic landmarks. But as night falls, the city lights up, and the reflection against the water creates a breathtaking spectacle. There’s nothing quite like watching the Eiffel Tower light up from your private boat.

17. Experience Haute Cuisine at L’Ambroisie

Food is an integral part of French culture, and dining at L’Ambroisie was a culinary experience unlike any other. This three-Michelin-star restaurant in the heart of Paris is an institution, known for its classic French cuisine with a contemporary twist.

In an elegant setting reminiscent of a French chateau, I savored dish after dish, each a masterpiece of flavors, textures, and presentation. A meal here is more than just a dining experience; it’s a celebration of French culinary artistry at its best.

18. Dine in the Dark at Dans le Noir

If you’re seeking an extraordinary and unique dining experience, look no further than Dans le Noir . This is not your average restaurant, but an opportunity to eat in complete darkness, stimulating your senses in new and exciting ways.

Upon entering Dans le Noir, you’re led to your table by blind or visually impaired waitstaff — the darkness their world, and for the duration of your meal, it becomes yours, too. As I bit into each dish, I found myself savoring flavors and textures I’d previously overlooked. The mystery of not knowing exactly what I was eating added a playful and exciting element to the experience.

19. Discover Paris with a Private Guided City Tour in a Vintage Car

Embark on a Paris Private Guided City Tour with a Vintage Car .

Experience the magic of Paris while riding in the backseat of an iconic vintage car such as a Citroën Traction or a convertible Deux Chevaux. These cars, with their timeless appeal and French charm, provide an intimate and stylish way to explore the city. It’s not just about sightseeing; it’s about travelling in style and making the journey as memorable as the destination.

Your knowledgeable local guide will take you on a carefully curated tour to the city’s highlights and hidden gems. These could include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the charming Montmartre district, and the gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, depending on your preferences.

In addition, there will be plenty of opportunities for photo stops, allowing you to capture the memories of this extraordinary trip.

20. Experience a Private Shopping Experience at Galeries Lafayette

One of the pièces de résistance of Parisian luxury is the private shopping experience at Galeries Lafayette . Imagine an entire floor dedicated to your fashion whims, all while sipping champagne and indulging in the finest French pastries.

The private shopping experience is more than just a shopping spree. It’s a dive into the world of Parisian fashion, where a personal shopper with extensive knowledge about trends, fit, and style will guide you. As the shopper flitted between racks, selecting items that not only complemented my style but also pushed my fashion boundaries, I felt like I was a part of the grand Parisian fashion narrative.

Leaving Galeries Lafayette, laden with bags, I found a deep appreciation for the curated Parisian style, a mix of chic sophistication and daring boldness. It was not merely a shopping experience; it was a luxury, a piece of Paris that I could take home.

Similar Posts

Explore the Best of Willamette Valley with Our Guide

The Willamette Valley is the ideal destination for a sumptuous escape in the Pacific Northwest. From its undulating hills, plush vineyards, and verdant forests to its meandering rivers and tranquil farmlands, this ravishing valley offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking to investigate some of Oregon’s best wineries and vineyards or test your mettle with…

20 Unusual Things to Do in Glasgow (Hidden Gems)

Glasgow, Scotland’s vibrant city, is renowned for its cultural treasures, architectural splendors, and a rich tapestry of history. But for those who’ve tread the worn paths, there’s another layer to Glasgow waiting to be discovered. Let’s dive into some unusual things to do in Glasgow and explore the hidden gems in Glasgow holds in its…

Barcelona’s Top 25:Best Unique Things to Do

Barcelona, Spain’s vibrant and artistic city, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, world-class cuisine, and captivating culture. With so much to explore and experience, it can be a challenge to narrow down the best activities to make the most of your visit. We have curated a list of the top 25 unique things to…

Best Things to do in Zagreb

Zagreb, the capital city of Croatia, may not have the same level of international fame as other European destinations like Paris or Rome, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking in things to see and do. Tucked away in the heart of Croatia, Zagreb is a city that’s brimming with culture, history, and charm. From exploring…

15 Unique and Luxury Things to do in NYC

New York City, the city that never sleeps, where dreams are born, and where the world converges, is a bustling metropolis offering countless experiences that cater to a plethora of tastes. However, this post will not take you to the conventional tourist spots, but instead, to the unexplored corners of luxury within the city, promising…

Ultimate Luxury Travel Guide to Milan

Ready for a taste of La Dolce Vita, the sweet life, in the fashion and design capital of the world? Fasten your seatbelt, buckle up your Prada shoes, and hold onto your Gucci bags. Welcome to our Ultimate Luxury Travel Guide to Milan! If you’ve been daydreaming about strutting down the golden quadrilateral, dining in…

• Sites and Monuments in Paris
• Sites and Monuments in France
• Things to do in Paris
• Things to do in France
• ACCOMMODATION
• RENTING A CAR
• CHEF SERVICE
• CONCIERGERIE SERVICES
• TRAVEL TIPS
• TRAVEL LUGGAGE
• Arrondissements
• Monuments & Landmarks
• Secret & Offbeat Paris
• More about Paris...
• Île de France
• More Regions of France...
• Aix-en-Provence
• More Cities...
• Castles and Palaces
• Cathedrals and Churches
• Gardens and Parks
• World Heritage Sites
• Villages of France
• Autumn / Fall
• Mardi-Gras / Carnival
• April Fools' Day
• Bastille Day
• All Saints' Day
• More Holidays and Celebrations...
• National Anthem
• Gallic Rooster
• National Day
• Motto of France
• Motto of Paris
• Coat of Arms
• French President
• Le Croissant
• French Cheese
• French Wines
• Christmas Food and Recipes
• French Nursery Rhymes
• France geography
• FUN QUIZZES
• MOVIES AND MUSIC
• FRENCH LANGUAGE
• BOOKS BY FRENCH MOMENTS
• BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS
• The Secrets of the Eiffel Tower
• The Gems of Paris
• Office desks and chairs
• Travel suitcases
• LEARN FRENCH WITH PIERRE
• THE STORY SO FAR
• WORK WITH US
• THE NEWSLETTER
• HOW TO SUPPORT US
• PHOTO USAGE POLICY
• 5 Most Luxurious Locations in Paris – Where to Stay?

5 Most Luxurious Locations in Paris – Where to Stay?

Last Updated:  13 September 2023

Paris is one of the world's best destinations for a luxury city break. However, planning a trip to the City of Light can be overwhelming, especially when looking for the best places to base yourself. While it all depends on several factors, such as the purpose of your trip and the attractions to visit, some neighbourhoods are better than others, especially if you're seeking a luxurious experience. If you need suggestions of where to stay, here are some of the most luxurious locations in Paris.

5 Luxurious Locations in Paris

1. montmartre.

Montmartre is one of the most charming neighbourhoods in Paris, home to gorgeous apartment buildings and retro cafés. 

Spring sunny day in Montmartre © French Moments

Set on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Paris. When staying in this area, you'll spend your days strolling through its cobblestone paths, enjoying the stunning views of Sacre Coeur from one of the cafes, experiencing the lavish comfort of Paris's world-renowned luxury hotels for a romantic getaway , and trying out the delicious bread and pastries at one of the local pâtisseries.

Rue Saint-Vincent, Montmartre © French Moments

Staying in Montmartre will put you in a strategic location to explore some of Paris' top attractions. While the area is separate from the rest of the city since it's on a hilltop, you'll be close to the Moulin Rouge and Montmartre Cemetery, the resting places of some of Paris' most famous residents. The chic neighbourhood is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in Paris, including Maison Souquet, a five-star boutique hotel opposite the Moulin Rouge.

The Moulin Rouge from Place Blanche © French Moments

Montmartre lies along the right bank of Paris in the 18th arrondissement. The best way to get to the area is to take lines 2 or 12 of the Paris Metro and get off at Blanche, Pigalle, or Anvers, depending on where you are staying.

The Abbesses métro station entrance © French Momnts

2. Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the most sophisticated areas of Paris, offering a five-star Parisian experience. It's part of the 6th arrondissement, along the left bank of the Seine. Located in the centre of Paris, it has bustling food markets, cosy cafes, art galleries, small boutiques, theatres, and the Jardin du Luxembourg, giving you plenty to enjoy during your stay. 

Jardin du Luxembourg © French Moments

As one of the most luxurious locations to stay in Paris , Saint-Germain-des-Prés is home to many elegant hotels, including the Hotel d'Aubusson, a boutique hotel housed in a 17th-century mansion featuring old-world charm and decorated with antique furniture. The well-appointed rooms have all the modern comforts and amenities you expect from a luxury hotel room.

Café Bonaparte, Saint-Germain-des-Prés © French Moments

One of the best things about staying in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is that you'll be walking distance from some of the city's top museums, such as the Musée Delacroix. It showcases the work of the famous French painter Eugène Delacroix, including oil paintings, sketches, and pastels. If you are interested in the arts and history, Saint-Germain-des-Prés would be the perfect place to stay in Paris.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés from above © French Moments

Le Marais is another neighbourhood in Paris, home to some of the city's top hotels, making it an ideal place to stay for your luxury holiday in Paris. It occupies some parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, west of Place de la Bastille and north of the Seine River.

In the Marais district, Paris © French Moments

Once an enclave for the rich, it attracts bohemian residents and is among the few neighbourhoods Napoleon spared when modernising the city. Thus, expect to find many buildings with old-world charm. It's also a prominent Jewish Quarter, home to a few Jewish restaurants.

The old part of the street of Rue des Rosiers © French Moments

The Marais is in the city centre and is a favourite hangout spot for many locals and tourists. Here, you'll find many bars, restaurants, and cafes to chill out in and chat over drinks and French delicacies. It's also a fun neighbourhood to stroll around, offering an exciting mix of architecture, scenic squares, and small museums and art galleries.

Choux in the Marais © French Moments

If you're visiting Paris on a weekend, the Marais is an ideal base since it's one of the few places where many establishments remain open on a Sunday. Check out Hotel Jeanne d'Arc, a gorgeous hotel in a quiet area of the 4th arrondissement featuring chic decor and warmly decorated rooms.

4. Bastille

Bastille is close to Le Marais but offers more accommodation options, including reasonably priced boutique hotels. It's in the 11th arrondissement, named after the famous prison that once occupied the neighbourhood. Nowadays, the lively district is home to numerous bars and clubs and has become one of Paris' most popular nightlife spots. If you love to socialise and meet people from different walks of life, this may be the perfect place to stay.

Place de la Bastille © French Moments

Those seeking a luxury experience can stay at Maison Bréguet, a stunning five-star hotel 500 metres from the Bastille and walking distance to the neighbourhood's top bars and clubs. It has the amenities you expect from a luxury hotel, such as a spa, a fitness centre, and a fantastic restaurant with a glass ceiling.

During the day, stroll through Rue de Charonne, home to some lovely boutiques and a fantastic place to shop for the latest trends in fashion.

Cour Damoye © French Moments

Visit the historic Place de la Bastille , the former location of the Bastille Prison. You'll find Café Français, a perfect place to enjoy a glass of champagne while watching the world drift past. If you happen to be in the neighbourhood on a Sunday, check out the farmer's market, which has numerous stalls selling fresh produce.

5. South Pigalle

Sitting at the foot of Montmartre Hill, South Pigalle is another fantastic place to stay in Paris. It's an area where two roads meet, and you'll find many street vendors selling trinkets, watches, textiles, etc. 

Morris Column of Paris © French Moments, Place Pigalle, 9th arrt © French Moments

The area where two roads meet along Place Pigalle has a reputation for being a red-light district, home to adult stores. But that's no longer the case. In fact, South Pigalle is home to some of the city's best hotels, such as the Grand Pigalle Hôtel, a four-star boutique hotel near Sacré Coeur.

Musée de la vie romantique © French Moments

In Conclusion

In conclusion, there is a wealth of luxurious locations in Paris for a truly enchanting stay. From the opulence of Saint-Germain-des-Prés to the artistic charm of Montmartre, each destination promises a unique experience. However, Paris is a city of endless beauty and diversity, and countless other neighbourhoods await exploring.

We'd love to hear from you! Do you have a favourite place to stay in Paris that wasn't mentioned here? Please share your thoughts and recommendations in the comments below. Your insights could be invaluable to fellow travellers looking to make their visit to the City of Light even more memorable.

Square Rapp (7th arrondissement) © French Moments

Check out our curated magazine on Flipboard for exclusive stories & insights on France!

About the author

Every now and then at French Moments we work with carefully selected bloggers or companies to provide quality guest posts that we think will interest you and add value to our site.

Like it? Leave a comment!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked

Name * * * * * * * * * *

E-mail * * * * * * * * * *

Website [optional]

Save my name, email and website in the browser for my next comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Transparency: Some blog posts and pages may contain affiliate or sponsored links. If you are planning a trip, the use of these links helps us to run the site. There is no additional cost to you. All you have to do is click on the link and any booking you make is automatically tracked. Thank you for your support!

Escape to France with every email! Get insider insights, travel guides, cultural gems delivered and exclusive offers to your inbox twice a week. Your journey to Paris and France begins when you sign up!

SUBSCRIBE TO THE NEWSLETTER AND GET THE FREE EBOOK

24 PLACES TO SEE IN FRANCE

Europe Chevron

France Chevron

Ile-de-France Chevron

Paris Chevron

29 Beautiful Places in Paris Everyone Should Visit (at Least) Once

By Caitlin Morton

Compiling a list of the most beautiful places in Paris is no easy task. The city has a nearly endless supply of charming shops, artsy museums, boutique hotels, and world-famous landmarks—so choosing just a few dozen of those sites takes a good deal of restraint.

Still, we were able to put together a collection of Parisian wonders that we feel encapsulate this great city best—from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the romantic banks of the Seine River, with plenty of bookstores and cathedrals in between.

If you’re planning a trip to the City of Light, be sure to add these must-visit places to your itinerary. And even if you’ve already experienced most of these attractions, the wonderful thing about Paris is that every repeat visit unveils something new about the city. Whether it’s your first or fifth time walking along the cobblestoned streets of Saint-Germain or hearing the bells toll from Notre-Dame, you’ll find that the charm of Paris transcends cliche.

With gilded history reflected across so many arrondissements, here are 29 of the most beautiful places in Paris.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Jardin du Luxembourg

One of the most famous green spaces in Paris (and even greener during the spring), Jardin du Luxembourg is a favorite spot for locals to stroll and relax. While the overall vibe here is quite grand and regal, there are still intimate corners to be found.

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel has long been one of Paris’s most fabulous grande dames, but the property became even more luxurious after unveiling its four-year renovation in 2017. The current iteration features Karl Lagerfeld–designed suites, dreamy terraces for afternoon tea, and a world-class spa with a glittering indoor pool.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame

When you think of French Gothic architecture, chances are you think of Notre-Dame . Although the cathedral’s spires were destroyed in a devastating fire in 2019, the iconic facade and rose windows still draw massive crowds—and serve as a testament to the enduring beauty of Paris.

Musée Jacquemart-André

Once the home of a refined, art-collecting couple, Musée Jacquemart-André now serves as a museum with works from Rembrandt, Bellini, Botticelli, and more. The 19th-century mansion is just as much of a draw, with grand marble staircases and gallery walls that redefine #apartmentenvy.

Shakespeare and Company

A former haunt of Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein, Shakespeare and Company is as historical as it is charming. Bibliophiles could spend hours perusing the bargain racks on the sidewalk (especially on a sunny afternoon), ideally followed by a slice of lemon pie at the on-site café.

Fondation Louis Vuitton

Open since 2014, this spectacular museum is home to some of the city’s best contemporary art. But we think the sailboat-shaped building—designed by Frank Gehry—is a masterpiece in and of itself.

Eiffel Tower

You had to be expecting this one, right? There is no city-landmark pairing as iconic as Paris and the Eiffel Tower, which has defined the skyline since 1887. For some of the best photo ops, head to Place du Trocadéro , an elevated, open space with a stellar view of the tower.

Who needs a reason to visit the Panthéon ? Its gorgeous neoclassical architecture is lure enough. Don't forget to look up.

La Maison Rose

Since the 19th century, Montmartre has served as the bohemian hub of Paris’s creative and nightlife communities. The neighborhood has an endless string of postcard-perfect shops, but few are quite as recognizable as La Maison Rose—a rosy pink restaurant sitting pretty on a street corner.

Musée de l’Orangerie

Musée de l'Orangerie —located at the far end of the Tuileries Gardens—strengthens the case that Paris’s smaller museums are just as important as, say, the Louvre. Plus, it’s the only place you can stand in awe of Monet’s famous Nymphéas (Water Lily) murals.

Arc de Triomphe

As if the views of the Arc de Triomphe aren’t stunning enough, the views from the Arc de Triomphe are even more incredible. It's a pretty claustrophobic climb to the top, but the fresh air and 360-degree views of Paris are well worth it.

Musée d'Orsay

A vast collection of Impressionist artworks is the focus at the Musée d’Orsay , Paris’s second most-visited museum. But don’t forget to look past the artwork for a moment to admire the arched ceiling, a reminder of the building’s past as a train station.

Rue Crémieux

This little throughway in the 12th arrondissement might just be the most charming street in all of Paris. Just beware of the fashion influencers and Instagram celebs trying to take advantage of those pastel-colored backdrops.

Palace of Versailles

Though it technically lies just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is an essential stop on any City of Light itinerary. The former residence of King Louis XIV is a study in opulence, with the Hall of Mirrors and manicured gardens drawing some 15 million visitors each year.

Palais-Royal

The Palais-Royal complex is in some ways Paris in a nutshell: shops, cafés, art, history, architecture, and spectacular gardens, all across the street from the Louvre. Keep an eye out for Instagram photoshoots around the Colonnes de Buren , an art installation consisting of black-and-white-striped columns of varying heights.

Musée Rodin

We make this a stop on every trip to Paris, and sometimes, we don't even go inside. Musée Rodin is a light-filled estate with a serene garden filled with sculptures like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell . It's as intimate and personal (and relatively uncrowded) a museum-going experience as you'll get in the city.

Place de la Concorde

Despite its macabre history (it was the site of guillotine executions during the French Revolution), this public square is now one of the most beautiful places in Paris. Landmarks like the Luxor Obelisk and mermaid-filled fountain only add to the glamour.

Galeries Lafayette

On the famed Boulevard Haussmann, Galeries Lafayette is a department store known for its upscale French products and stunning neo-Byzantine stained-glass cupola. If you can swing it, visit during December to see one of the world’s grandest Christmas displays .

Pont Alexandre III

This ornate, Beaux-Arts–style bridge connects the Left and Right Banks of Paris, and is one of the biggest tourist photo-ops in the city. We get it: With all those gilded statues and river views, the selfie urge is real.

Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier is one of the most opulent Beaux-Arts buildings in Paris. Prepare to be dazzled by the grand marble staircase, gilded chandeliers, and frescoed ceilings.

Sainte-Chapelle

Photos of Sainte-Chapelle are apt to take your breath away, but they hardly do justice to this Gothic chapel on Ile de la Cité. After struggling your way up the narrow spiral staircases to the upper chapel, that first glimpse of the 50-foot stained glass windows is an experience you’ll never forget.

Saint-Germain

Not only is this 6th arrondissement neighborhood the cocoa capital of Paris , but it also happens to be extremely picturesque, with cobbled streets and pretty French balconies everywhere you look.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Pretty much everything in Paris is next-level beautiful—even its cemeteries skew more divine than dismal. Spend an overcast afternoon walking across Père Lachaise’s 108 acres, then pay your respects at the graves of Gertrude Stein and Oscar Wilde.

Sacré-Coeur

Second in height only to the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Coeur is a towering Romano-Byzantine basilica one very steep climb up into Montmarte. Everything about it—its architecture, its views from the hilltop—inspires awe.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Featuring cliffs, lakes, and waterfalls, the 62-acre Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is an au naturel alternative to Paris’s more groomed, rigidly formal parks. Hike up rocky elevations to catch amazing views of the city, including the aforementioned Sacré-Coeur.

Jardin des Tuileries

This perfectly manicured park also has the advantage of a perfect location—turn one direction and you'll find the Louvre, turn the other, Place de la Concorde. Walk the entire length to really admire the formal French garden design of the 17th century.

Musée du Louvre

The Louvre is famously crowded—it is the most-visited museum in the world, after all. But even if you aren’t willing to fight a hundred camera-wielding tourists to see the Mona Lisa, at least stroll past the museum to see I.M. Pei’s famous glass pyramid.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Open for more than a century, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is one of the most elegant, fashionable, and surprisingly playful hotels in all of Paris. Its signature red awnings are best enjoyed with a side of Michelin stars, at restaurant La Cour Jardin's ivy-covered terrace.

River Seine

The River Seine is essentially the beating heart of Paris, bordering half of the French capital's arrondissements. We’re partial to views of the river at dusk, but thanks to a few recent additions—a floating hotel and pedestrian-only walkway , for starters—the watery pathway is pretty damn gorgeous around the clock.

Recommended

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin

Disneyland Hotel Paris

Paris Travel Guide

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The Fashion-Insider Guide to Paris: Every Spot Worth Knowing

Where to Stay in Paris

Where to dine in paris, parisian cafés, old and new, where to sip in paris, where to spend in paris, what to see in paris, what to pack for paris.

Welcome to Who What Wear Travels , a series of curated guides to destinations the fashion set loves. Consider this your download on everything from the chicest stays to the most memorable meals to the perfect travel wardrobe, all vetted by stylish locals and well-traveled fashion folks.

The thing about Paris is that everyone has their own take on it. If you ask anyone who just got back from a trip, they'll insist that their dinner spot or museum is the best one. There are a million and one ways to experience the city, and for that reason, we wanted to wait a beat after rolling out other WWW Travels city guides (so far, we've covered London , Copenhagen , Mexico City , and Miami , among others) before publishing our own list of the "best" the French capital has to offer. While we would never claim to have the last say on this ever-changing and endlessly documented city, we've gathered what we think is some pretty strong intel on the coolest insider spots to have on your radar from the Parisians and fashion-industry experts who know it best.

No matter how sought-after other fashion destinations may become, Paris remains *the* fashion capital, period. With fashion weeks happening most months of the year, from menswear and couture to ready-to-wear shows, the city will always have a certain gravitational pull with both insiders and anyone drawn to the industry. "There is definitely a realistic access to positions in the most renowned maisons," Sophie Hersan, co-founder and fashion director of Vestiaire Collective explains. "This is part of what makes Paris so attractive."

The dream of moving to Paris and working in fashion is something that recently been cemented by kitschy pop culture references like Netflix's Emily in Paris, but Hersan admits that she's been drawn to the idea from the age of 15. As a teenager, she would sneak out of the house to attend extravagant Parisian parties at Les Bains Douches and Le Palace in the hopes of bumping into the most coveted fashion people of the time.

Fashion scene aside, there's the Paris of fine art, of gourmet food, of iconic architecture, and of art and design. I don't have the spell out the reasons why you might want to book a trip or return for the thousandth time—Paris is Paris, after all. The romance of the city isn't lost on its residents, either. "There is a certain douceur de vivre in the city," muses Chloé Harrouche , founder and creative director of Loulou Studio . "It never gets old." While she grew up in Paris, Harrouche still finds herself amazed by the architectural aesthetic of the city and often walks across the Seine to work at the Loulou Studio office, arriving brimming with inspiration. "There are little details everywhere in the city to notice and discover," she adds.

Surprisingly, the initial attraction for Martinique-born content creator Ellie Nes of @slipintostyle wasn't the fashion, which she admits contrasted her colorful maximalism. "It was mostly the culture," she shares. "All these incredible museums and, of course, the food. There's always a trendy new restaurant popping up and an endless amount of things to see, discover, and eat."

Hôtel Château Voltaire ticks all the boxes: a prime location in the heart of Paris, an intimate but luxurious ambiance, the highest-quality service, and a fashion-crowd perspective. Thierry Gillier, the founder of the fashion label Zadig & Voltaire, is behind the 32-room boutique outpost. Hersan adores its "quiet, intimate atmosphere" and also recommends the on-site restaurant Brasserie l'Emil , which becomes a hot spot during fashion week.

Le Grand Mazarin may have just opened in September 2023, but the playfully designed space makes it feel at once like the city's most exciting newcomer and a bona fide Parisian staple. Designed by Martin Brudnizki, this five-star indie boutique spot is brimming with eclectic and whimsical décor that's reminiscent of a Wes Anderson film, down to the colorful mural painted on the ceiling above the indoor pool. The hotel comes from the same team behind renowned properties like Crillon-le-Brave in Provence and Lou Pinet in Saint-Tropez and includes 61 rooms, a restaurant, two bars, a swimming pool, a jacuzzi, and a fitness center. It's located a stone's throw away from the Seine and a 15-minute walk from the Louvre.

Located on a discreet corner near Les Halles, Madame Rêve is the definition of an "if you know, you know" spot. It's located in what was once Paris's only 24-hour post office and is now home to a rotating cast of fashion designers and insiders who flock here especially during fashion week. Boasting panoramic views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower and Montmartre, the hotel features two on-site restaurants and a rooftop bar whose menus range from French to Japanese influences. Even the spa is complete with a sauna overlooking the city.

Brunch at Loulou on a sunny day is basically a requisite for any trip to Paris, and you'll find the terrace flooded with the city's most stylish patrons. It boasts one of the most famous locations in the world opposite the gardens of the Louvre, but beyond the space itself is the menu, a cross-pollination between Italian, Sicilian, and French cuisines that results in dishes like the risotto of the day and veal al limone.

You've probably seen the towering plates of mousse au chocolat that are served from a large soup tureen and the striped awning that extends over the sprawling terrace in the Marais. The former is Chez Janou 's claim to fame, but the Provençal-style bistro is so much more than its most popular dessert offering.

"I'm not going to lie," Nes admits. " Gigis is yet another fancy Italian restaurant where everybody raves about the truffle pizza, but the view on the Eiffel Tower is unbeatable, and there's a DJ, meaning you can push the tables and dance the night away."

" Café Charlot is always bustling with a young, well-dressed crowd in the Marais," Who What Wear Editor in Chief Kat Collings shares. "Dance parties at the café have known to spill into the street late weekend nights. The food is decent, but it's not really about the food. It's more about the vibe and people-watching."

Harrouche is a fan of Café Nuances in the first arrondissement, which serves creative drinks like an elegant rose latte and strawberry matcha. Designed by Uchronia, the space is done up in highly saturated hues and funky shapes, making it a true delight for all the senses.

Known for its famed hot chocolate and towering swirls of whipped cream, Carette is the charming brunch spot you've seen all over your social feeds—and for good reason. The menu is an extensive collection of classic French dishes as well as gourmet pastries and desserts.

Inside of the Ritz Paris at Place Vendôme, you'll find one of the city's most iconic and legendary cocktail bars. Bar Hemingway may be tiny, but every corner of the space is filled with quirky memorabilia of its historic past.

Rouje founder and quintessential Parisian Jeanne Damas tells Who What Wear that Le Clown Bar is one of her favorites. In our Locals Only feature with the designer, she said it's one of her favorite meals in the city but shared that the bar also has a really great selection of natural wine.

With its red velvet–lined and dimly lit interior, Hotel Costes is where you'll find the fashion set on a Saturday night. The hotel itself is a pillar of Parisian luxury, but it's all about the bar scene. Head here for a great cocktail and an even better vibe.

Despite Paris's more old-school vintage scene, Nuovo has cemented itself as the cool girl boutique thanks to the curation of mid-range and premium vintage that's more about an overall vibe and less about specific designer labels. Its roster of celebrity clients includes some of the best dressed stars, like Lily-Rose Depp.

For a uniquely Parisian shopping experience, Harrouche highly recommends a visit to Officine Universelle Buly : "The original 19th-century store in Saint-Germain allows customers the chance to discover the time-honored tradition and art de vivre of French apothecary."

Le Bon Marché isn't just a department store. It's a shopping institution. It was the first department store in the world to be known for its curated selection, whether it be in fashion or homeware, and remains the perfect place to stroll and discover new brands. Hersan suggests stopping and grabbing a bite at the Rose Bakery tea room right next to the shoe department.

While small compared to nearby art institutions like the Louvre and the Musée d'Orsay, Harrouche says Atelier Brancusi is a worthwhile stop next to the Pompidou Center. The recently updated museum offers guests a unique perspective on the work of sculptor Constantin Brâncuși.

There are certain things you travel all the way to Paris for—the croissants, the views of the Eiffel Tower, and Monet. Lovers of impressionist painting will want to beeline to Le Musée de l'Orangerie , where the large-scale versions of Monet's Water Lilies and more from the impressionist and post-impressionist eras can be fully appreciated.

"The Louis Vuitton Foundation always puts on great exhibitions," Harrouche says. Right now, there's an excellent Matisse collection on display, featuring works from his original Parisian workshop.

Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.

What's old is new again.

By Erin Fitzpatrick

Here's why.

By Drew Elovitz

For sunset dinners in Nice and the Monaco Grand Prix.

By Eliza Huber

How to travel in style.

By Remy Farrell

• Contact Future's experts
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Cookies policy
• Accessibility Statement
• Advertise with us

Who What Wear UK is part of Future plc, an international media group and leading digital publisher. Visit our corporate site . © Future Publishing Limited Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All rights reserved. England and Wales company registration number 2008885.

10 Paris Museums for Every Kind of Traveler

The louvre may be the most popular museum in the world, but the astounding art you can see in paris goes way beyond the “mona lisa.”.

• Copy Link copied

The ornate interiors at the Louvre are nearly as grand as the artwork on display.

Courtesy of DAT VO/Unsplash

Paris is perhaps one of the dreamiest cities in the world. There are the bakeries, the storied history, the fashion and shopping, and, of course, the museums . The City of Light is home to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa , but there’s so much more to the Paris museum scene than the Louvre. Whether you’re looking to take a deep dive into the idyllic, sun-speckled oeuvre of Claude Monet or want to explore the intriguing history of French magic shows, there’s a museum in Paris for you.

These are the 10 best museums in Paris to visit on your next trip.

Science and technology enthusiasts should plan to spend a few hours at the Musée des Arts et Metiers.

Photo by r.nagy/Shutterstock

1. Musée des Arts et Métiers

• Location: 292 Rue Saint-Martin, 3rd arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday–Thursday 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. –9 p.m.
• Admission: €12 per person

Sure, Paris has art museums galore. But there are also many institutions devoted to the scientific arts here—after all, Paris’s nickname, “the City of Light,” comes from the important role it played during the Age of Enlightenment, rather than the lanterns that line its streets. Founded in 1794 by the French National Conservatory of Arts and Crafts , the Musée des Arts et Métiers is devoted to documenting technological innovations throughout the ages. The museum has 80,000 items and 15,000 technical drawings; 2,400 are currently on display and are split into seven collections: materials, mechanics, energy, construction, transportation, communication, and scientific instruments. Highlights include the original version of Foucault’s pendulum, the first mechanical calculator, early airplane prototypes, and the original model of Liberty Enlightening the World (aka the Statue of Liberty).

It’s estimated that it would take a person about 100 days to properly appreciate all the art in the Louvre’s collection.

Courtesy of Tomas Eidsvold/Unsplash

2. The Louvre

• Location: 93 Rue de Rivoli, 1st arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 9 a.m.–6 p.m., Wednesday and Friday 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
• Admission: €22 per person

The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world and for good reason: It’s the largest and most visited museum on the planet and is home to 35,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa . Many visitors will make a beeline for that portrait and then exit, but it’s worth seeing other iconic artworks at the Louvre, which is also the oldest museum in Paris at 231 years old. They include Venus de Milo by Alexandros of Antioch, Liberty Leading the People by Eugène Delacroix, and Gabrielle d’Estrées and One of Her Sisters , painted by an unknown artist circa 1594. At 652,300 square feet, the building could be considered a work of art itself—especially the Louvre Pyramid addition, built in 1989 and designed by Chinese American architect I.M. Pei. Although reservations are not required, advanced bookings are highly recommended. For a stress-free experience , the Louvre tends to be the least busy during its late-night opening on Wednesdays and Fridays—to experience the museum more intimately, book a small group, after-hours tour on Viator .

The building that is home to the Musée D’Orsay is an artwork in and of itself.

Courtesy of Armand Khoury/Unsplash

3. Musée d’Orsay

• Location: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 7th arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday–Sunday 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m., Thursday 9:30 a.m.–9:45 p.m.
• Admission: €14 per person (at the door); €16 online

For one of the most impressive museum experiences in Paris, head to the esteemed Musée d’Orsay , which is housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station scenically located next to the Seine. The museum is completely devoted to French art produced roughly between 1848 to 1914 and houses the world’s largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings. Here, visitors can find works by master painters like Claude Monet, Paul Cézanne, Edgar Degas, and Vincent van Gogh. Musée d’Orsay is the city’s second most-visited museum after the Louvre, and while reservations are not required (except for the first Sunday of the month, when the museum is free ), they are highly recommended. The Musée d’Orsay tends to be the least busy during weekday evenings.

The Fondation Louis Vuitton, designed by architect Frank Gehry, somewhat resembles an iceberg and has 12 “sails” made of glass and fiber-reinforced concrete.

Courtesy of Michael Heise/Unsplash

4. Fondation Louis Vuitton

• Location: 8 Av. du Mahatma Gandhi, 16th arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 11 a.m.–8 p.m., Friday 11 a.m.–9 p.m., Saturday, Sunday 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Admission: €16 per person

The Fondation Louis Vuitton is one of the newer additions to Paris’ storied museum scene and opened its doors in 2014. Located in the city’s large Bois de Boulogne park, the Fondation Louis Vuitton was designed by Canadian American architect Frank Gehry and displays the art collection of Louis Vuitton Group CEO Bernard Arnault; it includes pieces by Andy Warhol, Chantal Akerman, and Joan Mitchell. And in addition to its robust permanent collection, the museum regularly organizes exciting temporary collections by superstar artists.

A large portion of Musée National Picasso’s items were donated by the Picasso family after the artist’s death.

Courtesy of Vinciane Lebrun/Voyez-Vous

5. Musée National Picasso-Paris

• Location: 5 Rue de Thorigny, 3rd arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 9:30 a.m.–6 p.m.

In the 80 years that Pablo Picasso worked as an artist (a painter, sculptor, and ceramicist, among other things), he produced 147,800 pieces of art. The Musée National Picasso-Paris , founded in 1985, has the most Picassos of any museum in France with about 5,000 pieces in its collection, and many of them were produced when he lived in Paris. Picasso fans can look forward to famous works like Paulo as a Harlequin , Portrait of Dora Maar , and Woman in the Garden . And a trip to the Musée Picasso is worth it just to see the building that it’s housed in, the Hôtel Salé, which is considered to be one of the finest examples of an old-school French mansion (finished in 1659) in the Marais neighborhood.

Palais de Tokyo is more than a museum—it’s also meant to be a hub for young creatives.

Photo by EQRoy/Shutterstock

6. Palais de Tokyo

• Location: 13 Av. du Président Wilson, 16th arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Wednesday, Friday–Monday 12 p.m.–10 p.m., Thursday 12 p.m.–midnight

The Palais de Tokyo opened in 2002 and is the largest cultural institution dedicated to contemporary art in Europe. Its mission: to celebrate living, cutting-edge artists of all disciplines, including notable names like Pierre Joseph and Wang Du. Visiting the Palais de Tokyo is something of an “anti-museum” experience. The bare stone building itself has a raw, edgy vibe and is intended to be more of a meeting place for artsy young people than a traditional museum. Palais de Tokyo regularly holds events and workshops and is also home to a few well-known restaurants: the Café du Palais , which specializes in sustainable café fare; Monsieur Bleu , which offers traditional French cuisine; and the maximalist Bambini , with a menu that pays homage to the Italian zest for life.

Paris’s Museum of Magic is located in the cellar of the home of the infamous Marquis de Sade.

Courtesy of Hadonos/Wikimedia Commons

7. The Museum of Magic

• Location: 11 Rue Saint-Paul, 4th arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Wednesday–Sunday 2–7 p.m.
• Admission: €15 per person

Those in search of a delightful and quirky museum experience should head over to Paris’s 4th arrondissement, home to the small but mighty Museum of Magic . The museum’s collection is spread out over seven rooms and is devoted to things like fun-house mirrors, optical illusions, antique wands and magician hats, wind-up toys, and over 100 automatons, aka self-operating machines. Fun fact: The museum is housed in the cellar of what was once the home of Marquis de Sade, who was known for his uh . . . cruel and peculiar sexual appetite—his name is the source of the word “sadist.”

The Musée Marmottan-Monet is home to one of the city’s largest collections of impressionist paintings.

8. Musée Marmottan Monet

• Location: 2 Rue Louis Boilly, 16th arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday–Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m.–9 p.m.
• Admission: €14 per person

Although Claude Monet fans should certainly head to Musée de l’Orangerie to see his famed water lily paintings, the Musée Marmottan Monet is worth a trip as well. It houses the largest collection of the painter’s art—over 100 of his impressionist and post-impressionist works—along with art from his personal collection, with pieces by Renoir, Degas, and Gauguin on display. It displays paintings he created throughout his life, with highlights including Impression, Sunrise; The Japanese Footbridge ; and Rouen Cathedral at the End of Day, Sunlight Effect .

Originally built as a depository for the royal furniture collections and crown jewels, the Hôtel de la Marine reopened as a public museum for the first time since the 18th century in 2021.

Photo by Didier Plowy - CMN

9. Hôtel de la Marine

• Location: 2 Pl. de la Concorde, 8th arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Saturday–Thursday 10:30 a.m.–7 p.m., Friday 10:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m.
• Admission: €17 per person to explore the intendants’ apartments; €9 per person to see the salons and loggia; €23 for both

This lavish museum overlooks the Place de la Concorde and occupies the former royal Garde Meuble, aka the office and depository that managed all of the French monarchy’s treasures like jewels, tapestries, and paintings. The building sat vacant and closed to the public for 250 years but reopened in 2021. The Hôtel has been restored to its former glory and visitors can find period-correct furniture and decorations throughout, as well as actors who perform as Garde Meuble employees. Its gift shop is stocked with 18th-century literature as well as French accessories and snacks.

The Musée Carnavalet encompasses two Parisian mansions: the Hôtel Carnavalet and the Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint Fargeau.

Photo by Pack-Shot/Shutterstock

10. Musée Carnavalet

• Location: 23 Rue de Sévigné, 3rd arr. | Find on Google Maps
• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
• Admission: Tickets start at €5 per person

To learn more about Paris itself, visit Musée Carnavalet , which explores the history of the city from prehistory to the present day. Here, history buffs can find everything from a 6,000-year-old canoe discovered in the Seine to highly detailed Renaissance paintings to artifacts detailing the bloodied progression of the French Revolution, including a chunk of the Bastille. It’s a fairly large museum with lots of information to take in, so budget several hours to spend here.

This article was originally published in 2024 and most recently updated on June 27, 2024 with current information.

Luxury Travel Guide for Paris

With Paris nicknamed the city of love, you’d be deceived into thinking this chic metropolis is a playground for romantics.

France’s capital city may be the perfect place to fall in love, but this cultural hub has so much more to offer. For visitors looking for a taste of elegant luxury, there are few destinations that rival the lavishness of Paris.

In our complete Luxury Travel Guide To Paris, you’ll find all the information you need to savor the opulence of France’s capital city.

Discover the finest dining experiences, private tours, and the very best accommodation options available throughout the City of Light.

This guide is perfect for those who are travelling to Paris on a luxury. We will show you what to do in Paris, where to stay , what to eat and how to get around, whether it’s a weekend in Paris or a long term stay.

Plan your trip?

Avoid hidden fees in the exchange rate while withdrawing from millions of ATMs abroad, paying in restaurants and shops, and buying your accommodation and flights using the Wise Card . You can hold up to 40+ currencies at once to spend in in over 150 countries, and convert them in real time with the free Wise app.

Need help planning your trip from start to finish? Check out these helpful links:

• Cheap flights
• Savings on accommodation from hostels to luxury hotels
• Affordable car rental options
• Affordable sightseeing tours and day trips
• Travel Adapter – All in one so you don’t have to carry a bunch around
• Don’t be silly and forget Travel Insurance ! Get hurt and you’ll regret it…

This post contains some affiliate links for your convenience. Click here to read my full disclosure policy. You can also read our content/editorial policy here .

Table of Contents

When to visit Paris

Although Paris is welcoming all year round, there are certain times of the year it’s even better to visit. If you want to void the crazy summer crowds, but still enjoy milder weather visit between April and June or October to early November.

Paris is also dazzling over the festive period, illuminated by Christmas lights and New Years firework displays.

How to get around Paris

Paris is very well connected, with lots of transport options at your disposal. Being a very walkable city, this is by far one of the best ways to get around. Take a gentle stroll down the Champs Elysees or through one of the cities many parks such as the Jardin des Tuileries.

Public transport is affordable, quick and easy – with the Paris Metro connecting all corners of the city. To see Paris from a different perspective whilst you get from A to B, head to the water. The Batobus service runs on the Seine river from May to September.

The service connects eight stops, which happen to be some of the most popular areas of the city, including the Louvre and the Notre Dame. You can buy a 1-day, 2 days in Paris or annual pass for the Batobus.

What to expect in Paris

In Paris, the main lanugage spoken is French. You’ll find a lot of Parisians do speak English too, particularly in the touristy areas of the city.

It is polite however to learn some basic French before you go such as Bonjour (hello), Merci (thank you) and parlez vous Anglais? (do you speak English?) The currency in Paris is the Euro , which is a universal currency among many European countries.

You may be curious to know if tipping is expected. For hotel porters and concierges, it is expected for you to offer a little something as they are providing you with an additional service.

Taxi drivers are at a set rate, so a tip is not expected. When it comes to eating out in Paris, a service charge is customarily included in your bill, so tipping is not expected, but If you enjoyed exceptional service, you can, of course, leave something extra.

Luxury things to do in Paris

Premium shopping destinations.

As a luxury shopping destination, Paris is like nowhere else in the world. For designer names such as Alexander McQueen and France’s own Coco Chanel, Rue Saint-Honoré is the go-to lacale. Infact, this area of Paris is one of the most upmarket retail destinations throughout the whole of Europe.

The labyrinth of alleyways found at Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen together form the largest antiques and second-hand market in the world. Over 1,700 merchants sell furniture, works of art, and a whole host of weird and wonderful objects that will ignite the collector in you.

Located in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement, the covered Galerie Vivienne is a paradise of boutiques. Along the 176 meter long walkway, you’ll find the flagship store of Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Les Caves Legrand, one of the very best wine stores in Paris.

The Eiffel Tower

Towering high over the skyline is arguably the very symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower. Although this is a magnet for tourists, a visit to the Eiffel Tower doesn’t have to be fraught with crowds, queuing and stress. On the second floor of the tower is Le Jules Verne, a French fine dining establishment.

Three-star chef Frédéric Anton strives to make Jules Verne a culinary destination, for more than just the incredible views of course. There is a strict dress code and online reservations are a must.

Arguably one of the best museums in the world, the Louvre’s prolific art collection is a testament to some of the finest artists to have ever lived.

The notorious highlight being the famed Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece that draws in crowds of thousands each year. To really appreciate the works displayed at The Louvre, take a guided tour.

Musée Picasso

Dedicated to the Spanish artist Pablo Picasso , this museum houses over 5,000 of his works. The layout encourages visitors to take a journey through Picasso’s creative process, looking at the many artistic mediums he adapted.

The famed Notre Dame Cathedral is an ode to French Gothic architecture and a UNESCO world heritage site.

Visiting the main church of the Notre-Dame is free, but to see the towers or the crypt, you will have to take a tour.

Spoil yourself at a Parisian Spa

Sightseeing and shopping in the city of lights can be exhausting. Recharge and take so much needed me time at one of Paris’ extravagant spas. 

Villa Thalgo is in the heart of the city, near the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées. Here the focus is on the benefits of seawater.

Take a relaxing float in the pool, which has holiday-scapes projected onto screens, making it easy for you to escape from it all.

For some of the best treatments in Paris, visit Biologique Recherche Spa , set in a small cobbled courtyard near the Champs Elysées.

Here you will receive a personalized skin consultation, which will allow you to then receive a beauty treatment tailored specifically to your needs.

Paris Fashion Week

Considered to be the best of the best when it comes to the big four of Fashion weeks, for any fashion lover this event is a must.

Semi-annually, venues across the city burst into life as designers, and the who’s who of the fashion world come together to marvel at the latest works from top brands. 

Sadly, if you want to see one of the big runway shows, your chances are pretty slim. The guest list is only open the industry elite.

However, that doesn’t stop visitors from getting in on the buzz. Head to Place Vendôme or Place de la Concorde , where you’ll find the fashion crowd. Alternatively, visit Galeries Lafayette where you can see a free runway show every Friday afternoon.

Musée d’Orsay

Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay holds an impressive selection of French art, dating as far back as 1848. Highlights include works by renowned impressionists and post-impressionists including Monet and Renoir.

Although not French himself, Van Gogh did spend time in France, and a collection of his work is on display here.

Palace of Versailles

For an insight into the lives of French Royalty, a trip to the Palace of Versailles is a must . The palace was home to the Royalty of France from 1682 to the beginning of the French Revolution in 1789.

This incredible palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a visit will clearly display why. For a ticket granting access to the whole estate of Versailles, which also includes seeing the musical fountain show.

Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier is home to the Opéra national de Paris or Paris National Opera. A night at the opera is a cultural experience like no other, and the rich programme on offer in Paris ensures visitors are well catered to.

The inside of the Palais Garnier is just as exquisite as the performances, so taking a guided tour of the theatre’s public areas is also highly recommended.

Palais Royal

In the heart of the city, close the the Louvre, the Palais Royal stands as a monument to French architecture.

This palace was home to the French royal family up until the Palace of Versailles was built. In the courtyard, you will find 260 black and white striped columns. These columns were designed by artist Daniel Duren.

Where to stay in Paris – Luxury Hotels

Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome – If you are seeking a taste of classic luxury when in Paris, look no further than the Park Hyatt Paris-Vendome.

With exquisite decor, relaxing spa and Michelin Star restaurant all in the heart of the city, your needs will be well catered to. The on-site hair salon and fitness center will also ensure you look your best at all times. 

Four Seasons Hotel George V – Five-star luxury doesn’t get much better than this art deco landmark. Just a stone’s throw away from the Champs-Elysees, Parisian style suites are available that offer stunning views of the Eiffel Tower.

On-site you’ll find three restaurants, which between them have an impressive five Michelin stars. The Four Seasons hotel is one of the most expensive hotels in Paris for good reason after all. 

Mandarin Oriental – Close to the luxury boutiques of rue Saint-Honoré, the Mandarin Oriental is one of the best Luxury hotels in Paris.

With gourmet on-site dining, and a spa offering an oasis in the city, The Mandarin is an excellent hotel for anyone looking to experience Paris’ finest.

Royal Monceau – The Royal Monceau offers guests something truly special, after all, not everywhere has it’s own dedicated art coincerge ready to offer guests impeccable advice on Paris’ ever-changing art circuit.

To continue it’s services to culture lovers, on-site you will also discover a private cinema, contemporary exhibition gallery, and art bookshop. The hotel’s Spa houses a 23-meter swimming pool, with a plethora of treatments available to help you unwind after a busy day of art viewing.

Hôtel Ritz Paris – The Ritz is synonymous with luxury, no more so than the timeless elegance found at its Parisian hotel.

A two Michelin star restaurant L’Espadon serves exquisite fare, combining imagination with the finest ingredients. What’s really special about The Ritz is the unimaginable service from it’s dedicated staff.  

Shangri La Paris – For unrivaled views of the Eiffel tower, look no further than the Shangri La. The former home of Napoleon Bonaparte’s grandnephew, Prince Roland Bonaparte, the elegance of this restored address shines brightly.

On-site, you will find  L’Abeille, which was awarded two-Michelin stars for its gourmet French cuisine.

Luxury eats in Paris

Parisian gastronomy is famed for it’s luxury and excellence. In the city of light, Michelin star restaurants offer some of the best food in Europe, with quality ingredients at the heart of each dish. Below you will discover some of the best luxury eats in Paris.  

Epicure – The three Michelin star Epicure champions French cuisine. Celebrated Chef Eric Frechon does extraordinary things with food. A must-try dish is one of Frechon’s signatures, stuffed macaroni with black truffle, artichoke and duck foie gras, gratinated with mature Parmesan cheese. It’s enough to make even the most unwavering of foodies keel over in delight.

Restaurant Guy Savoy, Monnaie de Paris – Winning an accolade such as the worlds best restaurant in 2018, you can understand why the restaurant Guy Savoy is the epitome of luxury dining when in Paris. With an impressive three Michelin stars under his belt, Mr. Savoy knows what he’s doing when it comes to food. That’s obvious. Therefore leave the choices to this French culinary icon, and opt for the set menu, ‘Colours, Textures and Flavors’ offering onwards of 13 glorious courses.

L’Ambroisie – Located in a period house in the Place des Vosges, this three Michelin starred restaurant is home to chef Bernard Pacaud. In fact, this is Paris’ longest running three-starred restaurant, having received the accolade back in 1988.

Parisian Chocolate – Away from the Michelin starred restaurants, the Parisian food scene is also full of ample sweet treats. Chocolate in Paris is an art. The neighborhood of Saint-Germain is a chocolate lovers paradise. With dozens of chocolatiers to chose from, the best thing to do is explore, taste and delight, like a kid in a candy shop.

Pâtisseries and Macarons in Paris – Paris is famed for its Pâtisseries. It is after all the pinnacle of French dessert. Overflowing with delights is pastry shop Pain De Secure in the 3rd arrondissement. Just looking at the counter full of exquisite pastries is enough to give you a toothache. Paris is also famous for its Macaroons, and one of the very best places to go is Ladurée Paris Le Macaron, where you will find macaroons in every color under the sun. It is after all the first boutique exclusively dedicated to the Macaron.

Luxury tours to do in Paris

Make your own perfume.

One of the very best luxury Paris experiences on offer is this masterclass allowing you to craft your very own scent. During this very special private workshop , alongside a perfumer from Maison Molinard work to create your very own one of a kind perfume. Whilst testing different notes to craft your scent, sip champagne and nibble on sweet treats.

Seine river dinner cruise

Admire the famous sights of Paris from the water as you indulge in a cruise across the Seine river with dinner and French wine.

As luxury Paris tours go, sightseeing and fine dining combined is a magical and unique experience that is difficult to rival.

Champagne wine region day trip from Paris

Escape the bustling city for a day and head to the Champagne region to taste some of the finest wines throughout the whole of France.

Discover what makes the vineyards of this region so special, in a luxurious day where only the finer things in life are celebrated.

VIP Paris Catacomb tour

One of the best private Paris tours on offer, explore the catacombs underneath the city in a way like no other.

This intimate tour allows you access to sections of the catacombs usually closed off to members of the public.

The skip-the-line admission also means you’ll avoid the long, painstaking queuing, and the knowledgeable guide will talk you through the fascinating history of this underground burial site.

Paris Photoshoot

Whilst in Paris, make the most of the stunning scenery with a photoshoot experience . A professional photographer will help you capture your Paris memories in a way like no other.

VIP Moulin Rouge with 4-course dinner

Made famous by the Hollywood film, the Moulin Rouge is a must see nightlife experience in Paris.

Why not watch this infamous show like a true VIP, and enjoy a 4-course dinner , champagne, and excellent private balcony seats?

Wine and Cheese day trip to Loire Valley

Accompanied by a wine expert, this day trip takes you to the stunning UNESCO listed landscapes of the Loire Valley.

Taste the finest wines and cheese, meet the winemakers and take in the breathtaking views from this incredible region of France.

Recommend Luxury tours in Paris

• Customized Private D Day Normandy Landing Tour from Paris
• Private Tour: Paris City Sightseeing and Seine River Cruise with Lunch at the Eiffel Tower
• Private tour from Paris via Rennes to Mont Saint-Michel with driver-guide
• Vaux-le-Vicomte Evening Helicopter Tour from Paris 3-Course Champagne Dinner
• Paris Picturesque Vintage Rolls Royce Tour
• Excursion in Helicopter and Break in a Castle
• Private Tour: Romantic Seine River Cruise Dinner and Illuminations Tour
• Luxury private day tour to Champagne from Paris
• Eiffel Tower Dinner Restaurant Jules Verne-River Cruise-Arc de Triomphe
• Personal shopper with private driver
• Loire Valley Castles Private Day Trip from Paris
• Full-Day Private Chauffeur in Paris with Choice of 3 Vehicles
• 58 Tour Eiffel Dinner and Crazy Horse Cabaret with Champagne by Private Driver
• Private Tour: Montmartre Walking Tour, Dinner and Au Lapin Agile Cabaret
• Viator Exclusive: VIP Access to Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame

• Free things to do in Paris
• The  Ultimate List of Things to do in Paris  – Beyond the Popular Attractions

Romantic Things to Do in Paris

• A Day in Paris Itinerary
• 7 of the Best Tours in Montmartre Paris
• 9 of the Best Eiffel Tower Tours  
• The Best Day trips from Paris
• Budget Travel Guide for Paris
• Travel tips for  visiting Paris on a Budget
• 7 Luxury Travel Tips for Your Paris Trip
• Is a Day Trip from  London to Paris via the Eurostar Train  worth it?

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

Similar Posts

Shangri-La Bangkok Hotel Review

We took a taxi to the Shangri-la Bangkok hotel from Banyan Tree (we change hotels for a different view). The…

Where to Stay in Bordeaux [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

Bordeaux is around 115,000 hectares making it one of France’s largest wine regions. It’s similar in size to South…

Paris is known as the city of love and for good reason, the city witnesses the most romantic proposals…

20 Things to do in Strasbourg, France

Nestled in the heart of Europe, Strasbourg is a city that boasts a unique blend of French and German…

Luxury Travel Guide to Bali

Bali is a magical and luxurious destination that should be on the wish list of any elite traveller.  With…

48 Hours in Annecy – 2 Day itinerary

France isn’t short of dreamy and historic lakeside towns, but Annecy might just be one of the most beautiful….

31 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Paris

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Whether sunshine is sparkling on the café terraces of Boulevard Saint-Germain, or melancholy mists of the Seine River are shrouding Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris has a way of romancing visitors. The love affair might begin with a first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, then continue with strolls along the wide tree-lined avenues and in lavish formal gardens.

The city is seductively beautiful. Each neighborhood ( quartier ) reveals its unique personality. The Latin Quarter is a small cluster of pedestrian streets and narrow medieval alleyways where bookshops vie for space with university students' cafés and eateries. The fashionable Champs-Élysées buzzes with energy. Outside the city center, Montmartre still feels like a country village and flaunts its bohemian past.

After seeing the museums and monuments, you will want to seek out the small surprises, like family-run bistros with handwritten menus; cobblestone lanes full of quaint shops; secluded squares adorned with flowing fountains; and elegant tea salons, where dainty jewel-like desserts beckon from glass-covered pastry cases.

In every hidden corner and at all the famous sites, Paris casts a spell of enchantment. One visit may inspire a lifelong passion.

Discover what makes the City of Light so captivating and learn about the best places to explore with our list of the top tourist attractions in Paris.

See also: Where to Stay in Paris

1. Eiffel Tower

2. musée du louvre, 3. avenue des champs-élysées, 4. musée d'orsay, 5. palais garnier, opéra national de paris, 6. cathédrale notre-dame de paris, 7. place de la concorde, 8. arc de triomphe, 9. hôtel de la marine, 10. jardin des tuileries, 11. seine river cruises, 12. musical concerts at sainte-chapelle, 13. bustling boulevards and legendary cafés, 14. jardin du luxembourg, 15. sacré-coeur and quartier montmartre, 16. panthéon, 17. place des vosges, 18. musée rodin, 19. place vendôme, 20. centre pompidou, 21. hôtel national des invalides, 22. domaine national du palais-royal, 23. place de la bastille, 24. place du châtelet and tour saint-jacques, 25. la conciergerie, 26. fondation louis vuitton, 27. parc de la villette, 28. paris plages, 29. cimetière du père lachaise, 30. parc des buttes-chaumont, 31. grande arche de la défense, where to stay in paris for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to paris, best time to visit paris, france.

The Eiffel Tower (la Tour Eiffel) ranks high on the list of places to visit in France and is one of the most-visited tourist attractions in the world. So it's hard to believe that the structure was originally dismissed as a monstrosity. The innovative metal structure shocked Victorian-era audiences when it was unveiled by Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel for the Paris Exhibition of 1889 .

Whether loved or hated, the Eiffel Tower has always impressed. Reaching a height of 324 meters, the tower is comprised of 18,000 sturdy iron sections held together by 2.5 million rivets. Although no longer the world's tallest building, the Eiffel Tower has achieved the status of an icon.

For first-time visitors, seeing the Eiffel Tower is an unforgettable experience. Upon arrival at the esplanade, the sight of the four massive pillars that support this 10,100-ton monument leaves many awestruck.

Author's Tip : Purchase your tickets to the Eiffel Tower in advance online. You first choose a specific date and during the online process, you will reserve a specific time slot for the visit. (You must arrive on time.) Tickets sell out during high season (July and August), so you should purchase your tickets as far in advance as possible.

When you arrive at the Eiffel Tower, you will first walk through the esplanade gardens. Then you will look for the correct queue (which will be labeled "Visitors with tickets"). The recently renovated gardens feature leafy trees and pedestrian pathways with close-up views of the Iron Lady.

To arrive at the Eiffel Tower's 1st floor (at 57 meters) requires an elevator ride or a walk up the 360 steps. This level has public restrooms, a gift shop, a cafeteria, a brasserie restaurant, and an open-air terrace space for admiring the views.

The 2nd floor (at 125 meters) of the Eiffel Tower is reached from the 1st floor by a staircase of 344 more steps or an elevator ride. This level has similar amenities as the 1st floor, except the viewing platforms offer a perspective onto more of the Paris monuments (such as the Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur).

A highlight of the 2nd floor, the Michelin-starred Le Jules Verne delivers exceptional haute cuisine in a dreamy setting. The restaurant's dining rooms feature expansive windows, which provide a peak of the Eiffel Tower's structural beams and glimpses of Paris cityscapes. You'll also find a buffet-style cafeteria and the Pierre Hermé macaron boutique.

To arrive at the top floor (276 meters in elevation) requires an exhilarating elevator ride from the 2nd floor. The staircases only go up to the 2nd floor, so climbing up to the top is not an option.

Visiting the top floor of the Eiffel Tower is one of the most thrilling things to do in Paris , but it's not for the faint of heart. When you walk out onto the compact viewing platform at this level, you are overwhelmed by the far-reaching views and strong gusts of wind. Up this high, it feels like another world, and you can no longer hear the noise of street traffic below.

You definitely will want to spend some time taking photos of the Eiffel Tower. From either the Jardins du Trocadéro (a short walk across the Seine River) or the Parc du Champ de Mars (the lawns in front of the tower), there is just the right distance for picture-perfect photo-ops.

Address: La Tour Eiffel, Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris (Métro: Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, Iéna, or Passy station)

The Louvre is the most prestigious of Paris' museums and the crème de la crème of the city's cultural attractions. Besides its exceptional art collection, the building has a regal past: The Louvre was formerly the residential palace of France's kings.

Today, the Musée du Louvre displays thousands of artworks, many of which are considered masterpieces, from antiquities to European paintings of the 15th to 19th centuries.

It is impossible to see it all in one visit, but you can focus on a particular gallery, such as classical sculpture, Italian Renaissance art, or 17th-century French paintings, or take a self-guided tour to cover the Louvre Museum's highlights.

Of course, you will want to get a look at the Mona Lisa or La Gioconda (or La Joconde in French) painted by Leonardo da Vinci in 1503-1505. Many tourists breeze through the museum just to glance at this one piece, but there are other must-see works of art to admire even if time is limited.

Other masterpieces of the Louvre include the ancient Vénus de Milo sculpture; the monumental Victoire de Samothrace of the Hellenistic period; the immense Wedding Feast at Cana painting by Veronese (1563); Sandro Botticelli's Venus and the Three Graces fresco; and Liberty Leading the People (1831) by Eugène Delacroix, depicting the Parisian uprising of July 1830.

To get the most out of a visit to the Louvre, join a guided tour. The museum offers tours in multiple languages. These focus on the highlights and provide information on the palace.

The Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Tour is another option that also takes you straight to the museum's most famous artworks, including the Venus de Milo and the Mona Lisa . On this three-hour tour, a guide (who is an art historian) provides in-depth commentary about the masterpieces.

Author's Tips : Most visitors enter the museum in the courtyard of the palace at the Pyramid du Louvre , the glass pyramid designed by Ieoh Ming Pei in 1917. This entrance almost always has long lines. The wait is especially long without a timed entrance ticket. (See tips below for alternative entrances to the museum.)

Avoid the lines of the Pyramid entrance by going to one of the lesser-known entrances. If you already have a Louvre museum ticket or a Paris Museum Pass, head to the Carrousel entrance (99 Rue de Rivoli) where you likely can walk right in without waiting in line. You may save some time at this entrance if you haven't reserved a specific time slot for admission.

Purchase a museum pass : If you plan to visit multiple museums, you can save money and time by purchasing a Paris Museum Pass . The savings depends on how many museums you visit. The advantage is that you don't have to purchase a ticket at each museum. However, you still need to reserve a specific time slot (free of charge) to visit the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, and Château de Versailles (otherwise you may have to wait in line).

If you have not already purchased a ticket or Paris Museum Pass, you may use the Porte des Lions entrance on the 4 Quai François Mitterrand.

Address: Musée du Louvre, Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris (Métro: Palais-Royal Musée du Louvre or Pyramides station)

Brimming with fancy boutiques and dining terraces, the Champs-Élysées epitomizes the fashionable panache of Paris.

You'd never guess that the most monumental boulevard in Paris used to be a desolate swamp. The marshland was converted into an avenue by renowned landscape designer André Le Nôtre in the 17th century. Two centuries later, the city planner Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann added the grey stone Mansard-roofed buildings that give the boulevard its classic Parisian look.

The Champs-Élysées is divided into two parts with the Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées as its intersection.

The lower part of the Champs-Élysées, bordering the Place de la Concorde , includes a spacious park, the Jardins des Champs-Élysées , and the Petit Palais fine arts museum. The upper part, extending to the Arc de Triomphe, is lined by luxury shops, hotels, restaurants, cafés, cinemas, and theaters. This bustling area draws many tourists and is a gathering place for Parisians.

The Champs-Élysées is famous for its prestigious establishments, such as Maison Ladurée (75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), a pâtisserie boutique and tea salon that offers exquisite French pastries (macarons are the house specialty), and upscale designer boutiques like Tiffany & Co. (62 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), Louis-Vuitton (101 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), and Cartier (154 Avenue des Champs-Élysées).

For fine dining , the top choices are the legendary brasserie Fouquet's (99 Avenue des Champs-Élysées) and the swanky gastronomic restaurant L'Atelier de Joël Robuchon Étoile (133 Avenue des Champs-Élysées), which has one Michelin star.

Although the Champs-Élysées has an image of refinement, there are many affordable places that cater to tourists and students on a budget, such as Starbucks, Quick, Burger King, and McDonald's.

Address: Avenue des Champs-Elysées, 75008 Paris (Métro: Champs-Élysées Clemenceau station to visit the Jardins des Champs-Élysées and Petit Palais, Franklin d. Roosevelt station for Ladurée, George V station for the main shopping area).

You haven't seen the best of French art until you visit the Musée d'Orsay . The Musée du Louvre may hold the most masterpieces of European painting, but the Musée d'Orsay focuses on works by celebrated French artists including Monet, Renoir, and Degas.

If you love Impressionist art , this is the place to go. The Musée d'Orsay displays a splendid collection of 19th- and 20th-century art (created from 1848 to 1914).

Although the museum's inventory begins with 19th-century Realist paintings and landscape paintings, the highlight of the museum is the Impressionism collection. Also on display are Post-Impressionist works by artists such as Pierre Bonnard, Paul Cézanne, and Vincent van Gogh, and bohemian artists like Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

Some of the museum's famous paintings include Claude Monet's The Magpie , Gare Saint-Lazare, Poppy Field , and Luncheon on the Grass ; Vincent van Gogh's self-portrait and Starry Night ; and Renoir's Dance at Moulin de la Galette, which depicts a festive party scene in Montmartre.

You may rent an audioguide to take a self-guided tour. The commentary (available in English and French) covers over 300 works.

The museum also has a bookstore/gift shop, two casual cafés, and a fine-dining restaurant, which is worth the splurge. Formerly the Hôtel d'Orsay (a luxury hotel within the original Gare d'Orsay) and listed as a Monument Historique , the Musée d'Orsay Restaurant features gilded ceilings and sparkling chandeliers.

On the square in front of the museum, there is a kiosk that sells sandwiches and falafel.

Address: Musée d'Orsay, Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing 75007 Paris (Métro: Musée d'Orsay, Assemblée Nationale, or Solférino station)

Commissioned by Napoleon III in 1860, the Palais Garnier Opera House was designed by Charles Garnier in an exuberant Baroque style. Garnier worked tirelessly on the project for over a decade, from 1862 to 1875. Today, this show-stopping landmark is a symbol of Napoleon's Imperial regime.

Upon entering the building, you are dazzled by the lavish 11,000-square-meter interior. Much of the building's space is dedicated to the main foyer with its fabulous Grand Escalier , marble entrance staircase, adorned by ornate gilded lamps, and the Salon du Glacier , a sumptuous Belle Époque hall decorated with mirrors, Corinthian columns painted gold, colorful mosaics, and music-themed ceiling paintings.

The horseshoe-shaped auditorium has an intimate feel, although it can accommodate 2,105 people in its plush velvet seats. Gilded balconies, an enormous crystal chandelier, and a Chagall ceiling painting add to the theater's marvelousness, creating the perfect dramatic backdrop for ballet, opera, and music performances.

The Opéra Garnier hosts a prestigious calendar of events in addition to galas. Attending a performance is one of the most exciting things to do in Paris at night. It's a wonderful way to see the building's interior while enjoying a glamorous evening. Another option is to visit (entry ticket required) on a self-guided tour or take a guided tour during the daytime.

Connoisseurs of fine dining will be delighted to discover CoCo, a chic restaurant within the Opera House (entrance is at 1 Place Jacques Rouché) that serves contemporary French cuisine prepared from seasonal ingredients. CoCo offers lunch and dinner daily, as well as weekend brunch (every Saturday and Sunday) featuring musical entertainment. The garden terrace is open Tuesday through Saturday during summertime. Reservations are recommended.

Address: Palais Garnier, Place de l'Opéra, 8 Rue Scribe (at Auber) 75009 Paris (Métro: Opéra, Chaussée d'Antin-La Fayette or Havre-Caumartin station)

Despite the damage done by the 2019 fire, it is still worth seeing the Notre-Dame Cathedral. This awe-inspiring medieval monument stands at the heart of Paris on the Île-de-la-Cité, an island in the Seine River. To get here from the Latin Quarter , simply cross the Petit Pont bridge.

The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris was founded in 1163 by King Louis IX (Saint Louis) and Bishop Maurice de Sully, and the construction took more than 150 years. The cathedral was first created in the Early Gothic style, while later additions (the west front and the nave) show the transition to High Gothic style.

Note: A large fire in April of 2019 caused considerable damage to the cathedral: The medieval roof and the 19th-century spire collapsed. However, the monument was partly saved thanks to the work of hundreds of firefighters.

A project to repair the structure is underway. The city plans to rebuild the cathedral and restore it to its previous state. Restoration work is ongoing.

Currently, the interior of the cathedral (including the towers) and the space immediately in front of the cathedral (on the Parvis Notre-Dame) are closed to the public. A few steps away from the cathedral's facade, a section of the Parvis Notre-Dame (square) is now used for educational exhibits about the cathedral.

The Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral anticipates reopening in December 2024. A project to redesign the landscaping around the cathedral is scheduled for completion in 2027.

Until the reopening, the Notre-Dame de Paris congregation will celebrate Mass at the Eglise Saint-Germain l'Auxerrois (2 Place du Louvre) in the 1st arrondissement.

Address: Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Place Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris (Métro: Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station)

The Place de la Concorde stands at the heart of Paris both literally and figuratively. The square was created in 1772 by the architect of King Louis XV. During the French Revolution, the Place de la Concorde was the scene of state-ordered executions , including Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette, among other victims of the guillotine. The square was also part of Napoleon's triumphal route.

One of the largest and most central squares in the city, the Place de la Concorde offers a sensational perspective of the city's landmarks. In one direction, you can admire the Arc de Triomphe and in the other, the Louvre, while the Eiffel Tower can be seen in the distance.

Two ornately decorated fountains and an Egyptian obelisk are found in the middle of the square. However, it's a bit of a hassle to get up close because you have to walk through heavy traffic. The Place de la Concorde is one of the busiest intersections in Paris.

Tip for Pedestrians : You will notice cars circulating the square at high speeds. French drivers don't always pay attention to pedestrians. Make sure to get out of the way of oncoming cars!

During summertime , the Place de la Concorde adopts a fairground ambiance, with a Ferris wheel gracing the square from June through August. The neighboring Jardin des Tuileries also has amusement park rides and fairground treats during summertime.

To arrive at the Place de la Concorde, walk from the Louvre through the Jardin des Tuileries or the Rue de Rivoli, or follow the Quai des Tuileries along the Seine River. Alternatively, you may take the Métro to Concorde station.

Nothing says capital city grandeur quite like a triumphal arch. Paris' Arc de Triomphe is dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the French armies of the Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. Napoleon I commissioned the building of this mighty structure in 1806 but did not live to see its completion in 1836.

The monument was modeled after the Arch of Titus in Rome. The massive 50-meter-high arch features bas-reliefs with larger-than-life-size figures, which depict the departure, victories, and glorious return of the French armies.

Particularly noteworthy is the bas-relief by François Rude on the Champs-Elysées-facing side: Departure of the Volunteers of 1792 , also known as La Marseillaise , illustrating the troops led by the winged spirit of Liberty. On the inner surface of the arch are the names of more than 660 generals and over a hundred battles.

The Arc de Triomphe stands at the end of the Champs-Élysées, presiding over a circular intersection (the Place de l'Étoile).

From the top of the monument, a viewing terrace affords a panoramic outlook onto the 12 avenues that radiate from the Place de l'Étoile, including the route from the Avenue des Champs-Elysées to the Place de la Concorde and the Louvre. It's also possible to see all the way to La Défense, the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre, and the Eiffel Tower.

At the foot of the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , dedicated in 1921 as a memorial to an anonymous soldier (symbol of the many other unknown soldiers who valiantly died for their country during World War One without ever receiving recognition).

The Flame of Remembrance was ignited at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier on November 11th, 1923, and since that date has not ever been extinguished. Every evening at 6:30pm , a ritual takes place to rekindle the memorial flame at the tomb.

Throughout the year, events to honor national holidays are held at the Arc de Triomphe, including the November 11th (anniversary of the Armistice of 1918) ceremony commemorating those who perished in the war; the May 8th Fête de la Victoire (Victory Day) celebrating the end of WWII, and the liberation from Nazi occupation; as well as festivities for July 14th (Bastille Day).

Admission requires an entrance ticket. You may reserve a ticket in advance online. Free admission is included with the Paris Museum Pass (no reservations required). Guided tours are available.

For visitors with reduced mobility and young children, there is an elevator to reach the viewing terrace. Otherwise, you must take the stairs (284 steps).

Address: Arc de Triomphe, Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris (Métro: Charles de Gaulle-Étoile, Kléber or Argentine station)

A fascinating glimpse of ancien régime (old regime) splendor awaits you at the Hôtel de la Marine . During the reign of Louis XV, this Neoclassical palace housed the apartments of the Intendants du Garde-Meuble de la Couronne (the King's Furniture Storage Intendants). The intendant had an important job: procuring and maintaining the furnishings for the king's elaborate palaces.

The Hôtel de la Marine opened to the public in 2021 after several years of painstaking restoration work. This monument is one of the newest tourist attractions in Paris.

You enter the Hôtel de la Marine through a cobblestone courtyard off the Place de la Concorde. Then walk up the massive marble staircase and into the reception rooms, where you feel like you have stepped back in time. The interior decor has been restored to a state of perfect preservation.

Adorned with gilded moldings and crystal chandeliers, the Salons d'Honneur salons resemble the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles . Other rooms in the Intendant's Apartments reveal the refinement of the Age of Enlightenment.

During this period, aristocratic residences were lavishly decorated with exquisite furnishings, wallpaper, curtains, and paintings. You'll also see precious antiques such as a desk created by Jean-Henri Riesener , a renowned 18th-century cabinetmaker.

The dining room of the Intendant's Apartments, with its floral-patterned porcelain dinnerware, appears ready to welcome guests. On the guided tour, you will learn that the host placed servings of sugar (a precious commodity at the time) on the table to show off his wealth, along with bread, oysters, and bowls of fresh apricots, grapes, figs, and apples.

Be sure to step out onto the Hôtel de la Marine's Loggia , a colonnaded balcony that overlooks the Place de la Concorde. From this privileged spot, you can admire views of the Eiffel Tower, the gold-domed Hôtel National des Invalides, and the Jardins des Champs-Élysées.

Historical Notes : The Hôtel de la Marine is found on the Place de la Concorde, the square created in 1748 to display an equestrian statue of Louis XV and originally called Place Louis XV. During the French Revolution, the statue of the king was removed and the Crown jewels were stolen from the Hôtel de la Marine. In 1795, the square was renamed the "Place de la Concorde."

Treat yourself to some time relaxing and wandering the beautiful Jardin des Tuileries. After visiting the Hôtel de la Marine, the Place de la Concorde, or the Louvre Museum, you should spend some time wandering the nearby Jardin des Tuileries. This French formal garden was designed by celebrated landscape architect André Le Nôtre in the 17th century.

Today the garden offers an escape from the hustle and bustle in central Paris, but the ambiance was not always so idyllic. This garden is the site of the Palais des Tuileries where Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette were essentially imprisoned during the French Revolution. The palace was destroyed by a fire in the 19th century; all that remains is the gorgeous garden.

The leafy grounds feature perfectly manicured trees, statues, and pathways. You can relax on the wooden park benches or on individual green chairs which may be moved around. Find the spot that appeals to you and lounge there for a bit, while listening to birds chirp. You'll see locals having a picnic lunch or reading a book in the sunshine.

For snacks and quick meals, head to La Terrasse de Pomone , a kiosk where you can order crepes and sandwiches to-go or for dining at the outdoor tables; the Petit Plisson kiosk that sells quiches and sandwiches for dining at shaded tables; or Petit Farmers , a purveyor of artisanal ice cream.

The park's two café-restaurants, Le Pavillon des Tuileries and the Café des Marronniers offer casual meals in a tranquil setting beneath the leafy chestnut trees.

Tips : Check the opening hours of the café-restaurants and food kiosks as the hours change during different seasons. You will only find the Petit Farmers ice cream truck & stand at the Jardin des Tuileries from April through October.

Soak up the scenery of Paris on a Seine River cruise. You'll have a chance to see the sights from a different perspective. The Seine River bridges, the Eiffel Tower, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum look stunning from the viewpoint of a riverboat.

While a daytime cruise allows you to appreciate the glory of the monuments brightened by sunshine, the most romantic experience is an evening cruise. After sunset, the city's landmarks are illuminated, which creates a special effect, and somehow the city seems more magical.

For a cruise that includes dinner, try the Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music by Bateaux Mouches. This luxurious riverboat cruise departs at the Pont de l'Alma (a short walk from the Eiffel Tower) and treats you to a romantic four-course meal. If you prefer a more casual boat ride, a good choice is the Seine River Direct Access Guided Cruise by Vedettes de Paris which includes commentary from a knowledgeable guide and breakfast or lunch.

Gourmands will be tempted by the Ducasse sur Seine restaurant boat, which departs from Port Debilly. This dining cruise offers a haute cuisine experience. Options include a lunch (two, three, or four-course meal) or dinner (four or five-course meal). Menus focus on contemporary-style French dishes prepared from seasonal ingredients.

Sainte-Chapelle is considered a rare jewel among medieval houses of worship and is certainly one of the most exquisite churches in Paris . The ravishing 13th-century chapel is tucked away on the Île-de-la-Cité , just a few blocks (about a 10-minute walk) from the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

This masterpiece of Rayonnant Gothic architecture was built from 1242 to 1248 for King Louis IX (Saint Louis) to house the precious relics he had acquired from the Byzantine Emperor. The altar displays a relic of the Crown of Thorns.

An expanse of 13th-century stained-glass windows sets this chapel apart from any other church in the world. The windows' beauty and brilliance are best appreciated on a sunny day and in the morning. If possible, try to schedule your visit accordingly.

The chapel's over 1,000 stained-glass windows (covering 600 square meters) depict scenes from the bible, both Old Testament and New Testament stories. The colors and light symbolize divinity and the Heavenly Jerusalem.

Only used for church services on rare occasions, Sainte-Chapelle is open to the public as a museum (entrance tickets are required). For an additional fee, audioguides (available in French, English, German, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese) provide one hour of commentary to help visitors appreciate the art, architecture, and history of Sainte-Chapelle.

To truly experience the serene ambiance of Sainte-Chapelle, attend one of the classical music concerts held here. In the iridescent glow of the sanctuary, performances of Baroque chamber music, sacred music, or Vivaldi string quartets have a sublime quality. A regular program of concerts is held at Sainte-Chapelle year-round, with events scheduled several times a week.

Sainte-Chapelle is located in the Palais de la Cité. To find the chapel, enter the iron gate of the Palais de Justice and walk through the inner courtyard.

Another attraction nearby is La Conciergerie (tourists may purchase combined entry tickets), the prison where Marie-Antoinette was detained during the French Revolution.

Address: Sainte-Chapelle, 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris (Métro: Cité, Saint-Michel Notre-Dame or Châtelet station)

A visit to the City of Light is not complete without spending time on the sidewalk terrace or bustling interior of a famous café. It's the ultimate Parisian people-watching scene and a chance to imagine the historic rendezvous that occurred here.

To discover the legendary Paris cafés, the best place to start is the Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement. This broad tree-lined boulevard features an enticing array of storefronts: designer fashion boutiques, prestigious cafés, and old-fashioned brasseries.

The most celebrated cafés are the Café de Flore (172 Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés), which was the meeting place of Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, and Les Deux Magots (6 Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés), once the haunt of poets, authors, and artists, including Arthur Rimbaud, Paul Verlaine, James Joyce, Pablo Picasso, and Ernest Hemingway.

Across from Les Deux Magots is the Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés , one of the most important churches in Paris .

At both Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, you will get the classic Parisian café experience, complete with waiters wearing bow ties. Although the waiters have a reputation for their brusque service, their formality adds to the authentic ambiance.

The Saint-Germain-des-Prés area also has excellent pâtisserie boutiques, boulangeries, and chocolate shops such as the Ladurée tea salon (21 Rue Bonaparte), the Maison Le Roux Chocolatier & Caramélier (1 Rue de Bourbon le Château), and Debauve & Gallais (30 Rue des Saints-Pères), a boutique founded in 1779 that supplied Marie-Antoinette with chocolates.

Join the Paris Sweet Tooth Stroll small-group tour to sample the neighborhood's finest sweet treats.

The brasseries of Boulevard du Montparnasse were also frequented by artists and writers during the early 20th century. Le Dôme in Montparnasse is a Paris institution (108 Boulevard du Montparnasse) that has attracted luminaries including Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Picasso. In its glittering Art Deco dining room, the restaurant serves exceptional seafood.

Another atmospheric French brasserie with a mythical past, La Coupole (102 Boulevard du Montparnasse) has, since the 1920s, been visited by artists such as André Derain, Fernand Léger, Man Ray, Pablo Picasso, and Marc Chagall as well as the novelist Albert Camus and the philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre.

La Rotonde Montparnasse (105 Boulevard du Montparnasse) has been a gathering place for painters and writers since 1911 and still attracts cinematographers and artists today.

The Jardin du Luxembourg is the best-known park in Paris after the Tuileries. The 25-hectare park features a formal French garden, similar to the Jardin des Tuileries, as well as an English garden with shady groves of overgrown trees.

On a nice day, it's fun to grab a baguette sandwich at a nearby bakery and then find a chair in front of the garden's duck pond. This is the Paris version of going to the beach when the weather is pleasant. You'll notice many local residents taking a lunch break or simply soaking up some sunshine at the park. It's an especially popular spot among students of the Latin Quarter.

You can also visit a rose garden, apiary, Orangerie (orangery), and greenhouses filled with exotic orchids, as well as an orchard where heirloom varieties of apples flourish.

Artistic treasures are found throughout the gardens, such as the picturesque 17th-century Fontaine Médicis , a fountain basin nestled under trees opposite the east front of the Palais du Luxembourg , which today is used by the French state as the seat of the Senate.

Steps away from the Fontaine Médicis is La Terrasse de Madame , a little café-restaurant in a charming setting. You may dine at outdoor tables beneath the leafy chestnut trees. The menu includes coffee and croissants for breakfast and bistro meals for lunch, such as steak, Croque Monsieur (sandwiches), quiche, grilled fish, charcuterie, and salads. Also on the menu are traditional French desserts like profiteroles and crème brûlée .

Children love the playground, which features swings, slides, a sandpit, a games area, and pony rides. A favorite activity for the youngest visitors at the Jardin du Luxembourg is steering miniature sailboats around in the octagonal pool (the boats can be hired at a kiosk by the pond).

For French-speaking kids, watching a puppet show at the Théâtre des Marionnettes is not to be missed. The Théâtre des Marionnettes is a modern venue, in the southwest area of the park near the tennis courts, that accommodates an audience of up to 275 children and adults (which makes it the largest puppet theater in France).

Address: Jardin du Luxembourg, Rue de Vaugirard/Rue de Médicis, 75006 Paris (Métro: Luxembourg or Odéon station)

Sitting at the highest point in Paris like an ornamental decoration, the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre has a special aura. Its alabaster facade blends Romanesque and Byzantine styles, and from far away, it looks like a wedding cake (which is its nickname).

If you walk to the Sacré-Coeur Basilica from the Métro station, you must walk up the Esplanade, a staircase of over 200 steps, to arrive at the Basilica.

Inside the Basilica, the striking mosaic of Christ with a flaming heart gives the sanctuary an emotional and spiritual intensity, fitting for a church that was created as a symbol of hope after the Franco-Prussian War. In keeping with the somber ambiance, the Basilica's sanctuary is quite dark except for a plethora of flickering candles.

The atmosphere outside the church is quite a contrast, with Parisian joie de vivre in full swing. Locals like to hang out on the grass lawns of the Esplanade while listening to street musicians. You'll see tourists taking selfies, couples embracing, and kids playing on the grass. Below the Esplanade is an old-fashioned carousel, adding to the sense of festivity.

You can spend time on the terrace in front of the Basilica admiring the views of Paris or climb (300 steps) up to the Basilica's Dome for an even higher perspective with unobstructed panoramas. Admission to the Dome requires an entrance fee, but you may visit the Basilica free of charge .

After visiting the Sacré-Coeur, be sure to explore the enchanting neighborhood of Montmartre . This medieval country village (once considered outside of the city) has been incorporated into the city of Paris as the 18th arrondissement.

Montmartre exudes old-fashioned charm along with an avant-garde edge. Winding cobblestone streets and pedestrian staircases lead to small locally owned boutiques and restaurants, art galleries that evoke the quarter's bohemian past, and quiet squares filled with outdoor cafés .

During the Belle Époque, the village of Montmartre began to attract artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Edgar Degas. The bohemian creative spirit of Montmartre is still found here, especially around the Place du Tertre and the Carré Roland Dorgelès .

Montmartre has several excellent art museums, where you can admire the creations of artists who resided here in the late 19th and early 20th century (the Belle Époque). During that era, the quarter was famous for its cabarets and artists' studios.

The Musée de Montmartre (12 Rue Cortot) occupies a historic house where Auguste Renoir, Raoul Dufy, Suzanne Valadon, and other artists once lived and worked. Tucked away within the museum's gardens, you'll find the Café Renoir , which features outdoor seating in the delightful space where Renoir painted several masterpieces.

If you are intrigued by Surrealist art, be sure to visit the Dalí Paris museum (11 Rue Poulbot). This innovative museum displays more than 300 works created by Salvador Dalí. The exhibits are presented in a way that reveals the symbols and motifs used in his artworks.

Address: Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, 35 Rue du Chevalier-de-la-Barre, 75018 Paris (Métro: Abbesses)

The Panthéon is the national mausoleum of France's greatest citizens. You get a sense of the important heritage just by glancing at this grand monument. The colonnaded facade and enormous dome were modeled after the ancient Pantheon in Rome.

The architecture of the Panthéon marks a clear break from the fanciful Rococo style of the Louis XV era and instead presents a simpler and more somber Neoclassical style. The inscription on the Panthéon's facade reads " Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissante " (" To the Great Men Recognized by Their Country ").

Many famous men (75 in total) are buried here, including philosophers Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and René Descartes; and the writers Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, Émile Zola, and André Malraux. Although the monument was originally dedicated exclusively to France's male citizens, this has changed recently.

Since 1995, several of France's most esteemed female citizens have been buried in the Panthéon including the physicist Marie Curie, a two-time winner of the Nobel Prize. Five other women are buried at the Panthéon. In November 2021, Josephine Baker (the famous Black American expatriate dancer and singer) became the sixth woman to receive the honor of being inducted into the Panthéon.

When you step inside the Neoclassical sanctuary, you will be awed by the spacious domed interior, the floor-to-ceiling paintings that depict scenes of Christian saints, and the enormous sculpture that celebrates French Revolution deputies ( La Convention Nationale ).

Beneath the monumental rotunda is an unusual centerpiece: a science experiment rather than a work of art. Foucault's pendulum , created by French physicist Léon Foucault, was installed in 1851 to demonstrate his theory that the Earth rotates. The brass pendulum hangs from the dome on a steel wire and constantly oscillates in a circular trajectory.

To find the famous citizen's monuments and tombs, you will need a map (available on-site). The underground crypt is arranged in a geometric fashion, but it is easy to get lost.

Entrance to the Panthéon requires an admission fee, unless you have a Paris Museum Pass and except for the first Sunday of every month from November through March.

From April through September (for an additional entrance fee), you may ascend to the Panthéon's dome, where a colonnaded balcony provides a sensational view of the city's landmarks. You can see the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica in the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre.

Address: Panthéon, Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris (Métro: Luxembourg station)

In the charming Marais district, the Place des Vosges is Paris' oldest public square. With its uniform red-brick architecture, this elegant square provided a model for other squares such as Place Vendôme and Place de la Concorde.

The Place des Vosges was constructed between 1605 and 1612 (called Place Royale at the time) for King Henri IV. The buildings originally housed aristocratic residences.

The Place Royale offered a splendid setting for festive occasions in the 17th century, such as tournaments, state receptions, and court weddings. It was also a favorite spot for duels, in spite of Cardinal Richelieu's ban on dueling. The celebrated courtesan of Louis XIII's reign lived at number 11, and the future Madame de Sévigné was born in 1626 at number 1 on the square.

Victor Hugo rented an apartment at number 6 on the Place Royale between 1832 and 1848. Today this apartment is a museum, the Maison de Victor Hugo (6 Place des Vosges) which is devoted to educating visitors about the life and work of Victor Hugo.

The Place des Vosges is at the heart of Le Marais, a medieval quarter with narrow cobblestone streets, grand Renaissance palaces, and hôtels particuliers (mansions) of the 16th and 17th centuries. Several of these stately old buildings have been converted into museums.

A fascinating glimpse of France's history awaits you at the Musée des Archives Nationales (Museum of the National Archives) in the 17th-century Hôtel de Soubise (60 Rue des Francs-Bourgeois). The museum presents historical exhibits including the Edict of Nantes, French Revolution objects, Marie-Antoinette's last testament, and a letter written to Napoleon.

The most important museum of the quarter is the Musée Carnavalet - Histoire de Paris. This recently renovated museum illustrates the history of Paris from antiquity through the French Revolution and the Belle Époque until the present day.

In the Hôtel Salé (a 17th-century aristocratic mansion), the Musée National Picasso-Paris (5 Rue de Thorigny) wows you with its incredibly extensive collection (over 5,000 pieces) of Picasso's artwork, including some of his most iconic masterpieces.

More than just an open-air museum filled with historic monuments, Le Marais has become a trendy quarter full of fashion boutiques, cute cafés, and unique shops. Spend some time wandering the Rue de Sévigné and its cross street, the Rue des Francs Bourgeois . This area brims with youthful energy and is a fun place to visit for a stroll or a coffee break.

Another interesting fact about Le Marais is that it has a significant Jewish community. The Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme (71 Rue du Temple) presents the 2,000-year history of France's Jewish communities, along with educational programs about Jewish culture and exhibitions of artwork by Jewish artists such as Chagall and Modigliani.

Nearby, the Jardin Anne Frank offers the tranquility of a secluded garden. This quiet, leafy green space features benches, shady trees, and an orchard. One of the chestnut trees in the garden was grafted from a tree that Anne Frank could see from the window of the annex where she lived in Amsterdam.

For those in search of a refined Parisian experience, the Mariage Frères (30 Rue du Bourg-Tibourg) is the place to go. This tea salon serves its aromatic tea with savory and sweet delicacies in a French colonial-style dining room; its adjoining shop sells a wide selection of scented teas in distinctive tins.

Many tourists wait in line to try the authentic falafel at L'As du Fallafel (34 Rue des Rosiers), considered one of the best Middle Eastern restaurants in Paris. This area has several kosher restaurants and kosher bakeries.

Tip : Keep in mind that L'As du Fallafel and other Jewish-owned shops in the Marais are closed on Shabbat (Friday evening and Saturday during the daytime).

Address: Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris (Métro: Saint-Paul or Bastille station)

The Musée Rodin is a hidden gem in the posh 7th arrondissement. This peaceful haven of refinement occupies the Hôtel Biron , an 18th-century mansion where sculptor Auguste Rodin lived and worked for many years. The property includes a seven-acre Sculpture Garden that blooms with flowers throughout the year.

In 1908, Auguste Rodin began to rent several rooms on the ground floor of the Hôtel Biron to use as an atelier. Rodin later took over the entire Hôtel Biron, which became his place of residence for the rest of his life. In 1916, Rodin donated his artworks and collection of antiquities to the French state, and the museum was established soon thereafter.

The Musée Rodin displays a remarkable assortment of Rodin's sculptures, as well as the works of Camille Claudel. Rodin masterpieces presented in the Hôtel Biron include Danaïd , an expressive marble sculpture depicting a mythological character (created in 1890); The Age of Bronze (created in 1877); The Cathedral , a stone sculpture of two intertwined hands (created in 1908); and The Kiss , one of Rodin's most sensual works (created around 1882).

Several monumental Rodin sculptures preside over various corners of the Sculpture Garden. The Thinker , Rodin's most iconic work of art , sits on a pedestal overlooking the perfectly manicured formal garden. The expressive Monument to Balzac stands in a shady spot beneath leafy trees, while a bronze statue of Adam is sheltered behind dense shrubbery.

Adding to the romance of the garden are the park benches and the café-restaurant, L'Augustine , where you may relax on an outdoor terrace. The café-restaurant also has a casual indoor dining space. Here you can savor a classic French meal, complete with dessert supplied by the renowned Maison Lenôtre pâtisserie.

This graceful 17th-century square was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart , one of the leading architects of Le Grand Siècle (during the reign of Louis XIV). Originally, the square was called Place Louis le Grand and was intended to house royal establishments.

The charm of the Place Vendôme is that it has retained the consistency of the overall design, which combines regal ostentation with civic simplicity. Following careful restoration in the early '90s, it has been restored in all its splendor.

The square is known for its upscale jewelry boutiques including Boucheron, Chaumet, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Cartier. Another luxury establishment here is the Ritz Hotel , which was frequented by Ernest Hemingway, Scott Fitzgerald, and Gertrude Stein.

Coco Chanel made the Ritz Paris her home for 34 years; she decorated her suite in her signature style with velvet-upholstered sofas, lacquered furniture, and gilded mirrors. The Ritz Paris still has a suite named after Coco Chanel that exemplifies her vision of Parisian chic.

At the center of the Place Vendôme stands a landmark of historic importance, the Colonne de la Grande Armée (replacing a statue of Louis XIV that was removed in 1792). Built between 1806 and 1810, the 42-meter-high column is dedicated to Napoleon and his Grande Armée (army) who fought heroically and victoriously in the Battle of Austerlitz (in December 1805).

The column's facade is crafted from bronze plaques embossed with 108 spiraling bas-relief friezes (similar to Trajan's Column in Rome), which tell the story of the glorious events that took place during Napoleon's campaign of 1805.

Address: Place Vendôme, 75001 Paris (Métro: Tuileries or Opéra station)

In the charming Le Marais quarter, the Centre Pompidou is a cultural center devoted to modern art. The building itself features shocking modern architecture, sometimes described as an "inside out" design because the architectural details of staircases and elevators appear on the exterior.

The main attraction of the Centre Pompidou is the Musée National d'Art Moderne (National Museum of Modern Art), which displays iconic works of art chosen from an extensive collection of over 100,000 pieces. The collection focuses on contemporary art created from 1905 to the present.

The collection covers all the movements of modern art, beginning with the Post-Impressionist "Fauves" and "Les Nabis" movements (André Derain, Raoul Dufy, Henri Matisse, Pierre Bonnard, and Marc Chagall) and continuing with the famous movement of Cubism (Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Fernand Léger, and Robert Delaunay).

Each room highlights a specific time period or artistic movements such as Expressionism, Constructivism (Paul Klee and Piet Mondrian), Surrealism (Salvador Dalí, Max Ernst, René Magritte, and André Masson), Abstract Expressionism (Mark Rothko, Nicolas de Staël, Hans Hartung, and Serge Poliakoff), Informal Art (Jean Dubuffet), New Realism, and Pop Art (Andy Warhol, Claes Oldenburg).

Several masterpieces of the collection are not to be missed : Avec l'Arc Noir by Wassily Kandinsky, Manège de Cochons by Robert Delaunay, Portrait de la Journaliste Sylvia von Harden by Otto Dix, The Frame by Frida Kahlo, Les Mariés de la Tour Eiffel by Marc Chagall, La Blouse Roumaine by Henri Matisse, New York City by Piet Mondrian, and Les Loisirs-Hommage à Louis David by Fernand Léger.

The center has two bookstores, a casual café, and a boutique that sells gift items inspired by contemporary art.

For a special dining experience, head to the Centre Pompidou's restaurant on the museum's top floor. Restaurant Georges features floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular panoramic views of the Paris cityscape. Tables on the terrace look out directly onto the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and Montmartre.

Address: Centre Pompidou, Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris (Métro: Rambuteau, Hôtel de Ville, Châtelet or Rambuteau station)

Louis XIV founded the Hôtel Royal des Invalides in the late 17th century as a home for disabled soldiers. The building was constructed between 1671 and 1676 under the direction of the architect Libéral Bruant and centered on the Eglise Saint-Louis-des-Invalides, which was later redesigned by the architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart in 1706.

Today, the Hôtel National des Invalides still has a hospital (Institution Nationale des Invalides) that provides medical care for disabled veterans.

The monument also includes several tourist attractions: three museums and two historic churches. You could easily spend hours here, and luckily the site has excellent amenities: a café-restaurant, the Angelina tearoom (famous for its hot chocolate and pastries) in a tree-shaded courtyard, and a bookstore/gift shop.

Founded in 1794, the Musée de l'Armée (Army Museum) presents a large collection of military equipment and uniforms, weapons, prints, and armor from various historical periods. The museum covers the military history of France from the 13th century (the Crusades) to the 17th century. There are also paintings of Napoleon and well-known generals, as well as maps that depict the French campaigns.

The Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération honors the soldiers who fought for the liberation of France during the Second World War, from 1940 to 1945. This museum also educates visitors about the deportation of Jews from France, the Resistance, and life in France during the war.

The military strategy of the 17th century comes to life at the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (Museum of Relief Maps). The museum displays 97 detailed (1 to 600 scale) relief maps of France's fortified towns (citadels) and fortresses that date from 1668 to 1871. Louis XIV's Minister of War (and later ministers) used the maps for military planning purposes.

A gold-domed Neoclassical church, the Eglise du Dôme des Invalides was built in 1677 as a royal chapel for Louis XIV but is most famous for being the site of Napoleon's Tomb , installed here in 1861 by the orders of King Louis-Philippe. The imperial tomb stands beneath a magnificent cupola, which was painted by Charles de la Fosse.

Designed for veterans to worship, the Cathédrale Saint-Louis des Invalides (constructed around 1676) connects with the Eglise du Dôme des Invalides. This chapel was built in keeping with the etiquette of the 17th century and has a separate entrance from the Eglise du Dôme. The Eglise Saint-Louis des Invalides still serves as the cathedral for the French army.

Address: Hôtel National des Invalides, Esplanade des Invalides, 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris

Just steps away from the Louvre Museum, you will find a welcome retreat amid the bustle of Paris' 1st arrondissement. Visiting this secluded spot feels like a secret getaway, even though it's right in the center of the city.

The Palais-Royal was created as a residence for Cardinal Richelieu in 1633, during the reign of Louis XIII. Richelieu later bequeathed the palace to the royal family, and it became the childhood home of Louis XIV.

Exemplifying classical French architecture, the Domaine National du Palais-Royal is made up of 60 pavilions surrounding a courtyard and a garden, the Jardin du Palais-Royal . This peaceful enclosed space has the feeling of being its own little village within the city.

After wandering the busy streets of Paris, you will be delighted by the lush tree-shaded grounds. You might be surprised to see that the courtyard features a contemporary sculpture installation, a striking contrast to the historic architecture.

The buildings are connected by a colonnaded pathway and arcaded galleries (verandas) filled with high-end boutiques . There are fancy cafés with pleasant outdoor terraces and two gastronomic restaurants: the haute-cuisine Palais Royal Restaurant (two Michelin stars); and Le Grand Véfour in an 18th-century dining room featuring ornate " art décoratif " design motifs.

The Palais-Royal area has two theaters: the Théâtre du Palais-Royal (38 Rue de Montpensier), which dates back to 1783 and continues to present theater performances in French; and La Comédie-Française (1 Place Colette), a theater known as the " La Maison de Molière " because it has staged so many of the famous playwright's works. The Comédie-Française was inaugurated in 1790 and is still in use during its theater season.

A lovely place for a stroll, the Domaine National du Palais-Royal is open every day, free of charge. The Centre des Monuments Nationaux offers guided group tours.

Address: Domaine National du Palais-Royal, 8 Rue Montpensier, 75001 Paris (Métro: Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre or Pyramides station)

Now, only the name of this square is a reminder that the notorious state prison known as the Bastille, the much-hated symbol of absolutist power, once stood here. After the storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, the prison was completely demolished.

In the center of Place de la Bastille is the 51-meter-high Colonne de Juillet , topped by a graceful gilded figure of Liberty ( Génie de la Liberté ). The monument commemorates the July Revolution of 1830, which overthrew King Charles X and brought Louis-Philippe d'Orléans to power.

Four Gallic cocks and a lion relief on the base of the column symbolize the free people of France. A spiral staircase of 283 steps inside the column leads to a viewing platform.

On the site of the Bastille prison is the new Opera House, the Opéra Bastille , inaugurated by President Mitterrand on July 13, 1989. This immense modern theater has seating for 2,745 people. Both the view of the stage from the auditorium and the acoustics are superb.

The Opéra Bastille presents a calendar of events that includes opera and ballet performances by the Opéra National de Paris and the Corps de Ballet de l'Opéra de Paris.

For a memorable evening in Paris, attend one of the performances at the Opéra Bastille and then dine in the Bastille area. This trendy neighborhood is brimming with quirky boutiques, hip clothing shops, stylish restaurants, and happening cafés.

Address: Place de la Bastille, 75012 Paris (Métro: Bastille)

The Place du Châtelet stands at the very center of Paris in the 1st arrondissement, overlooking the Seine River. The Pont au Change (bridge) provides access from the Île de la Cité to the Place du Châtelet.

Tip : It's just a short walk from Sainte-Chapelle and La Conciergerie on the Île-de-la-Cité to the Place du Châtelet, so it would make sense to visit these tourist attractions at the same time.

Two theaters grace the Place du Châtelet. The opulent Second Empire Théâtre du Châtelet (1 Place du Châtelet) presents a wide variety of music concerts, as well as dance and theater performances. A listed Monument Historique where Sarah Bernhardt once directed shows, the Théâtre de la Ville (2 Place du Châtelet) stages a diverse program of dance, music, and theater performances.

The area around Place du Châtelet is also worth exploring. Continue towards the Rue de Rivoli, past the Boulevard de Sébastopol, and wander through the small park to find the Tour Saint-Jacques . The 16th-century Flamboyant Gothic clock tower is all that remains of the Eglise Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie (the patron saint of butchers), the town's old parish church.

The Saint-Jacques Tower is also famous as the place where Blaise Pascal conducted one of his barometric experiments, which showed the effect of altitude on the height of a column of mercury.

Never mind the inviting name, this imposing medieval fortress was an infamous place of detention and a courthouse (from 1793 to 1795) during the French Revolution. Here, prisoners including Marie-Antoinette and Robespierre were kept in dank cells while awaiting their fate.

The Conciergerie is a remnant of the Palais de la Cité , the royal residence of France's kings in the 13th and 14th centuries until the royal residence was moved to the Louvre. During the Restoration (return of the Bourbon monarchs to the throne), the Conciergerie was no longer used as a prison and Marie-Antoinette's cell was converted into a commemorative chapel.

Today, the Conciergerie is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is open to the public as a museum. It's possible to purchase a combined entry ticket for the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle. Admission to the Conciergerie is included with a Paris Museum Pass.

During your visit, you will have a chance to walk through the Prisoners' Corridor which includes a replica of French Revolution-era prison cells. An evocative exhibit, the Salle des Noms lists the names of more than 4,000 people who were put on trial by the Revolutionary Tribunal and includes their biographies.

Of course, you must visit the expiatory chapel of Marie-Antoinette (the commemorative chapel). Look for the motif of tears painted on the walls.

Other highlights of the visit include the Salle des Gardes which exhibits artifacts from the bloody Reign of Terror, including a guillotine blade, prison regulations, and a copy of Marie-Antoinette's last letter.

The Salle des Gens d'Armes is a 14th-century vaulted Gothic hall of awesome proportions. In this forbidding room, the condemned prisoners were handed over to the executioner.

For an exceptional view of the building's Neo-Gothic facade, stand on the opposite side of the Seine River on the Quai de la Mégisserie. From this distance, with its three round towers and the Tour de l'Horloge (Clock Tower), the fortress resembles a fairy-tale castle rather than a penitentiary.

Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris (Métro: Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame station)

Formerly royal hunting grounds, the Bois de Boulogne is now home to a surprising modern landmark. Opened in 2014, the Fondation Louis Vuitton was commissioned by Bernard Arnault, chairman of the Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy corporation.

Acclaimed American architect Frank Gehry designed the striking building, using 3,600 glass panels and more steel than the amount in the Eiffel Tower. The museum features 3,500 square meters of exhibition space with 11 different galleries illuminated by natural light.

In keeping with the museum's modern theme, the permanent collection focuses entirely on 20th-century and 21st-century art organized into four different categories: Expressionism, Contemplative Art, Pop Art, and Music & Sound.

The Fondation Louis Vuitton offers a year-round calendar of events and temporary exhibits. Cultural events and music performances are presented in a 1,000-seat auditorium.

Not to be missed are the four outdoor terraces on the rooftop, which afford sweeping views of the Bois de Boulogne, La Défense district, and the Eiffel Tower in the distance. You may also shop at the bookstore and enjoy a snack or meal at Le Frank Restaurant .

A tourist attraction in itself, the 850-hectare Bois de Boulogne has walking paths, gardens, bicycle rentals, picnic areas, and a lake for boating. Three upscale restaurants, including La Grande Cascade , the Auberge du Bonheur , and the three Michelin-starred restaurant Le Pré Catelan , offer traditional French fine dining. At the park's hippodrome used for horse races, La Brasserie Paris Longchamp serves casual sit-down meals.

Within the Bois de Boulogne is the Parc de Bagatelle with picnic tables, a snack bar, and a rose garden. The 18th-century Château de Bagatelle is open on Sundays and for temporary exhibitions. The Orangery of the Parc de Bagatelle hosts a Chopin Festival every year from mid-June until mid-July.

Address: 8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, Bois de Boulogne, 75116 Paris (Métro: Pont de Neuilly or Avenue Foch)

Covering 55 hectares, the Parc de La Villette is the largest landscaped green space in Paris. The park is brimming with attractions, including children's playgrounds and the Cité de la Music .

The park is also home to 400-seat La Géode IMAX theater; the Zénith Paris - La Villette concert hall; the Philharmonie de Paris performance venue; and Le Trabendo , which stages rock, rap, and hip-hop music concerts.

During summertime, Parisians (and a few tourists) enjoy attending cultural events at the Parc de La Villette. For several days at the end of May, the Villette Sonique festival draws huge crowds to outdoor music concerts. Other festivals include Jazz à La Villette held from late August through early September and an outdoor film festival ( Cinéma en Plein Air ), which takes place in the park from mid-July to mid-August.

The park features a variety of themed gardens with walking paths, footbridges, and bright red architectural "follies" designed by Bernard Tschumi. The area around the Canal de l'Ourcq is embellished with ponds and fountains.

Address: 211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris (Métro: Porte de la Villette)

Planning to visit Paris during summertime? Be sure to pack your swimsuit! Even though the city is far from the sea, you can still find "beaches" for sunbathing.

From early July through late August, the Seine River becomes a beach destination. The riverbanks along the Quai de Seine and Quai de Loire are transformed into little resorts, complete with lounge chairs, sun umbrellas, and palm trees. Recreational opportunities include table football, tai chi, and petanque.

Other summertime recreational opportunities (in July and August) include swimming at the Bassin de La Villette , which has three swimming pools with lifeguards, and sports activities at the Jardins du Trocadéro .

Outside of central Paris, the Père Lachaise Cemetery in the 20th arrondissement is the city's most famous and most visited cemetery. This 44-hectare space is the final resting place of many famous men and women, including Honoré de Balzac, Frédéric Chopin, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, and Jim Morrison.

Some of the tombs and graves of the most admired personalities attract a cult following, with flowers and tributes left by visitors on a daily basis.

Address: Cimetière du Père Lachaise, 21 Boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020 Paris (Métro: Père Lachaise or Philippe Auguste station)

Locals escape to this peaceful oasis when they need a break from urban life. Among Parisians, this park is a favorite place to go for picnics and basking in the sunshine on warm days.

The 25-hectare park has the feeling of an untamed pastoral landscape, in contrast to the typical Parisian formal French gardens, with their orderly rows of flowerbeds and pollarded trees.

This romantic English-style garden features caves, waterfalls, and an artificial lake. Large shady trees and spacious grassy areas invite visitors to pull out a blanket and relax. Some areas of the park offer panoramic city views.

The convivial Rosa Bonheur café serves Mediterranean cuisine on an outdoor terrace. Rosa Bonheur is also known for its musical entertainment and evening dances.

For a gourmet lunch or brunch, Le Pavillon du Lac delights you with its lake views and garden patio. Le Pavillon du Lac is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday through Saturday and for brunch on Sundays.

Address: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris

The Grande Arche de la Défense is found in a business district at the end of Avenue Charles-de-Gaulle. This area just outside the city limits of Paris is named La Défense, which recalls the bitter resistance by French forces in this area during the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871.

Designed by Johan Otto von Spreckelsen, the Grande Arche makes a striking impression. This huge 110-meter-high rectangular triumphal arch is faced with glass and granite.

The monument was inaugurated in 1989 on the bicentenary of the French Revolution, and the contemporary structure symbolizes France's national value of fraternity. The arch was originally called " La Grande Arche de la Fraternité ".

Address: La Grande Arche, 1 Parvis de la Défense, 92040 Paris (Métro: La Défense)

Deciding where to stay in Paris depends on your taste in hotels and travel preferences.

An abundance of quaint small hotels are scattered throughout the 5th, 6th, and 7th arrondissements, which is also known as the Rive Gauche (Left Bank). Tourists appreciate this area for its central location, excellent restaurants, and lively sidewalk cafés.

The Marais quarter (4th arrondissement) on the Right Bank rivals the Left Bank for old-world charm and trendy ambiance. This neighborhood is filled with magnificent historic palaces and mansions, while enticing boutiques, cozy restaurants, cafés, and tea salons line the quarter's cobblestone streets.

Many luxury hotels are found on the boulevards near the Louvre and the Champs-Élysées, in an area of the 8th arrondissement known as the Triangle d'Or (Golden Triangle) because of its designer fashion boutiques and upscale gourmet restaurants.

Montmartre is farther from most tourist attractions but has a special atmosphere thanks to its bohemian heritage, excellent art museums, and atmospheric pedestrian alleyways. Some of the hotels in this hilltop neighborhood offer sweeping city views.

Here are some highly-rated hotels in these areas of Paris:

Luxury Hotels:

• In the fashionable 8th arrondissement near the Jardins des Champs-Élysées is the five-star Le Bristol Paris . This legendary hotel epitomizes Parisian elegance with sumptuous guest rooms featuring Louis XV or Louis XVI furnishings and tailor-made bed linens. Guests enjoy the courtyard garden, spa, rooftop swimming pool, tea time at Café Antonia, and fine dining at the hotel's Michelin-starred gastronomic restaurant or Michelin-starred brasserie.
• La Réserve Paris - Hotel and Spa is another ultra-luxurious accommodation in the 8th arrondissement near the Champs-Élysées. The five-star hotel occupies a palatial 19th-century mansion decorated in a classical style, yet has the intimate ambiance of a private home. Guests appreciate the top-notch amenities: spa, fitness center, indoor swimming pool, and two gourmet restaurants including a dining room with two Michelin stars.
• Art Deco interiors create an inviting feel at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in the 8th arrondissement. This opulent five-star hotel occupies a landmark building that dates to 1928 and has been beautifully maintained. Guests are pampered by the hotel's amenities: an upscale spa, swimming pool, and three fine-dining options including a vegetarian restaurant. The hotel's gastronomic restaurant, Le Cinq, boasts three Michelin stars.
• The Hôtel Plaza Athénée graces the tree-lined Avenue Montaigne, a prestigious boulevard lined with haute couture boutiques. Housed in a stately Haussmann-style building near the Théâtre des Champs-Elysées, this five-star hotel features plush guest rooms with Art Deco furnishings. Amenities include the Dior Spa, and three dining options, including a garden courtyard restaurant and La Galerie, a salon that serves afternoon tea.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the Latin Quarter steps away from the Panthéon, the impeccably maintained Hôtel Résidence Henri IV exudes old-fashioned Parisian charm with its traditional interior decor and balconies overlooking the street. The spacious guest rooms have flat-screen televisions and updated bathrooms; the apartments have kitchenettes. This four-star hotel has a hammam and offers spa treatments. The breakfast (available for an additional charge) includes artisanal and organic products.
• The Relais Christine has a quiet and cozy ambiance, which makes it feel like a family home. This five-star hotel in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood is surrounded by cafés, bistros, and restaurants. The tastefully adorned guest rooms feature garden, courtyard, or street views and Nespresso coffee machines. Amenities include an upscale spa, fitness center, breakfast for an additional charge, and room service.
• Near the legendary Boulevard Saint-Germain cafés and a short walk to the Jardin du Luxembourg, the boutique three-star Hôtel Left Bank Saint Germain des Prés occupies an 18th-century building on an ancient street where Molière had a residence. The hotel's suite has a living room with windows that look out onto Notre-Dame Cathedral. A continental breakfast with croissants, café au lait, and fresh-squeezed orange juice is available.
• The charming Relais Médicis is tucked away on a quiet street near the Luxembourg Gardens. This four-star hotel is a welcome retreat from the busy streets of the Saint-Germain neighborhood. The guest rooms blend old-fashioned French country decor with modern amenities. Breakfast (available for an additional charge) includes yogurt, cheese, fresh-squeezed orange juice, coffee, tea, and croissants from a neighborhood bakery.
• Montmartre is considered Paris' most enchanting neighborhood, although it is a Métro ride to the main tourist attractions. A few steps away from the Métro station in the heart of the quarter's narrow, winding streets is Hôtel Le Relais Montmartre . This four-star hotel has quaint guest rooms with vintage-inspired decor. The hotel offers a breakfast buffet (generous for the price) that includes croissants, yogurt, charcuterie, cheese, and fruit.

Budget Hotels:

• The Legend Hotel by Elegancia is conveniently located in the Montparnasse district of the 6th arrondissement (Rive Gauche) and about a 10-minute walk to the Luxembourg Gardens. This cozy three-star boutique hotel has chic contemporary-style rooms. The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, buffet or continental breakfast (for an additional charge), and concierge services.
• In the Latin Quarter (Rive Gauche) near the Panthéon, the family-run Hôtel Diana has stylish modern rooms with renovated bathrooms and courtyard or city views. Considering the central location and 24-hour front reception desk, this hotel provides excellent value for the price. A continental-style breakfast buffet is available for a small charge.

Paris Sightseeing Overview:

• For first-time visitors, the Paris Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a good choice. You can decide which monuments you would like to see, such as the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, and the Musée d'Orsay. The tour provides commentary while you're on the bus and includes an entrance ticket to the Arc de Triomphe as well as a short Seine River Cruise.

Hop-on Hop-off Seine River Tour:

• The Hop-on Hop-off Seine River Tour covers the city's highlights by cruising down the Seine River. This self-guided tour allows you to stop at eight different places on the Seine River over a one-day or two-day period. You will have a chance to see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Musee d'Orsay, the legendary Saint-Germain-des-Prés cafés, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Place de la Concorde, and the Hôtel National des Invalides.

Visit the Normandy Battlefields:

• History buffs will want to see the famous World War II battlefields, about a three-hour drive from Paris. One recommended day trip is the Normandy D-Day Beaches Tour . Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, tourists will see the Omaha and Juno Beaches, and the American Cemetery. The tour also includes a visit to the Arromanches harbor.

Must-See Sights Outside of Paris :

• Another popular outing from Paris is the Versailles and Giverny Day Trip . This full-day excursion explores the vibrant gardens of Giverny, which Monet depicted in many paintings, and the Château de Versailles, Louis XIV's extravagant palace. The tour includes a gourmet lunch at the Moulin de Fourges riverside restaurant, which is housed in an 18th-century mill inspired by Marie-Antoinette's hamlet at Versailles.

Many seasoned travelers say the best months to visit Paris are in the spring (April, May, June), the summer (especially June and the first half of July), and early autumn (September and October) . As a general rule, this is also the best time to visit France.

April is in the off-season , and hotel prices are reduced. The drawback is that the weather is capricious and can be quite chilly or rainy . Average low temperatures are mid-40 degrees Fahrenheit. With some luck, the weather could be refreshingly crisp and sunny. Average highs are low-60 degrees. On the upside, April offers the chance to experience the magic of early spring. Trees begin to bud their first leaves in the parks and lining the avenues. Daffodils and tulips bloom in the gardens.

In May , the weather is still fickle , with a mix of sunny days and chilly or rainy days. The temperature averages range from high 60 degrees to low 50 degrees Fahrenheit. By early May, trees, burgeoning vegetation, and colorful flowers enliven the leafy grounds of the Jardin du Luxembourg, Jardin des Champs-Élysées, Jardin des Plantes, Parc Monceau, Bois de Boulogne, and the Buttes-Chaumont. On warm days, café terraces come back to life.

June is a delightful time to visit Paris because of the balmy weather and long days . Daytime temperatures are comfortable, with high temperature averages in the low 70 degrees. Thanks to Paris' northern latitude, the sun sets at almost 10pm in June. It seems that the entire city is out and about to celebrate the beginning of summer. The sidewalk café scene bustles and there is a sense of joie de vivre in the air.

The first two weeks of July are the most exciting time to visit Paris, with Parisians' anticipation of vacation just around the corner. Plus, the weather starts to feel like summer. The entire month of July is a great time to visit because of warm days with average high temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

July and August are the hottest months of the year in Paris. August also has average high temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit. However, travelers should keep in mind that many shops and restaurants close in August when Parisians leave for summer holidays after the Fête Nationale (Bastille Day) on July 14th.

September is a marvelous time to visit Paris because the weather is still pleasant , yet it is in the off-season , so hotels are more affordable, and tourist attractions are less crowded. Similar to the springtime, September promises a mix of weather, with some sunny days and some rain. The average high temperatures are low-70 degrees Fahrenheit and average low temperatures are mid-50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Another good time to visit is October which is in the off-season . October weather can be chilly. The daytime high-temperature averages start to dip into the 60s Fahrenheit and the average low temperature is 48 degrees.

Tips for What to Wear : For a Paris vacation in April, May, September, or October, travelers should pack layers and bring sweaters, a jacket, raincoat, boots, and an umbrella. In June and July, the weather is warm enough for summer dresses and short-sleeve shirts. Packing requirements during the late fall and winter months (November through March) include heavy coats, scarves, wool hats, gloves, warm socks, and boots.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Easy Paris Day Trips: There are many wonderful places to visit within easy reach from Paris . Just outside the Paris metropolitan area is a tranquil rural landscape that is rich in cultural treasures: lovely little villages, historic castles, splendid churches, and interesting medieval towns. A must-see destination is the Château de Versailles , the 17th-century palace of Louis XIV (the "Sun King").

For those who prefer cities to the countryside, several worthwhile destinations are just a one- to two-hour train ride away: the elegant and cultured city of Lille (one hour by TGV train) with its distinct Flemish character, the delightful town of Amiens (about one hour and 30 minutes by train), and Lyon (two hours by TGV train) known as the gastronomic heart of France.

Adored by tourists for its perfectly preserved medieval ambiance, picturesque canals, and enticing chocolate shops, atmospheric Bruges (two hours 30 minutes by train) is simple to visit even though the train crosses the border into Belgium.

Historic Sites in Normandy: The scenic Normandy region wows visitors with its natural beauty and fascinating history. Along its dramatic coastline are the Landing Beaches of World War Two, and nearby are military cemeteries and memorial museums. One of the top attractions of France and Normandy's most visited site is Mont Saint-Michel , a UNESCO-listed medieval pilgrimage site with a sublime 12th-century abbey church. Tourists will also enjoy discovering the historic town of Rouen , with its marvelous cathedral, handsome half-timbered houses, and abundance of Gothic churches.

Gorgeous Castles and Pastoral Landscapes: The fairy-tale Loire Valley landscape is home to the most magnificent Renaissance châteaux in France. With a lush natural environment of woodlands and rivers, this enchanting region is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The naturally beautiful region of Brittany boasts a wild, rugged coastline, with many idyllic fishing villages and an unspoiled countryside with medieval castles. The Burgundy region is dotted with historic towns such as Dijon , quaint villages, ancient abbeys, and Romanesque churches.

More on France

International Luxury Lifestyle Magazine

20 Best Hidden Gems in Paris, France

The city of Paris is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, however there are plenty of lesser known sights to explore. From secret spots to magnificent museums, it’s easy to get off the beaten track in Paris. Here are some of the best hidden gems in Paris, together with nearby restaurants that Parisian locals love.

Secret Spots in Paris

If you’re looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in the City of Lights, then be sure to check out some of the city’s hidden gems. From quirky art galleries to picturesque gardens , there’s something for everyone to explore. So grab your map and get ready to discover some of Paris’ best-kept secrets!

Head away from the main tourist sights like the Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe and Louvre Museum and you’ll find some amazing secret Paris spots. These are a few of our favorite hidden gems in Paris to visit.

1. Palais Royal Gardens

The Palais Royal is a 17th century palace located in central Paris near the Louvre. It was the former home of Cardinal Richelieu, followed by King Louis XIV up to the French revolution.

These are actually the only gardens in Paris that are classified as a “ Remarkable Garden” by the French Ministry of Culture. They were created by Victor Louis in 1731 and are a real sanctuary on a Summer’s day.

On one side there’s a courtyard filled with black and white columns, designed by Daniel Buren in 1986. Flanked by contemporary and vintage fashion boutiques and stylish cafes , it’s a lovely place for a stroll and one of the best Paris hidden gems.

If you’re lucky you might come across a mysterious birdman, as we did. This gentleman who attracted all the birds to him.

He let us in on his secret, give them bread soaked in milk and they will eat out of your hand. We certainly had fun once we’d got used to them landing on us!

Address: Jardin du Palais Royal, 2 Galerie de Montpensier, 75001 Paris, France

2. Le Marais Gardens and Mansion Houses

The Marais is one of the most unspoiled areas in Paris and Place des Vosges is a magnificent square, built by Henry IV in 1605. Although the square itself is quite well-known, if you venture into the side streets you’ll come across some lesser-known museums and parks that are really worth a visit.

Under the vaulted arcades of the Place des Vosges, there are some interesting art galleries and restaurants. L’Ambroisie and Restaurant Anne are two of the most well known Place des Vosges restaurants.

Le Marais has some amazing museums including the Carnavalet Museum , which is all about the history of Paris, and the Picasso Museum . The Hotel de Soubise is one of the most charming Paris hidden gems, housing the Museum of French History and the National Archives Museum.

We’d also recommend the  Musée Cognacq-Jay which has a superb collection of decorative items and art from the 18th century.

Robert et Louise is an unpretentious little steak house at rue Vielle du Temple in the Marais. You can sit at the communal table and tuck into delicious potatoes, wood-fire cooked meat and a tasty creme brulee to finish.

Address: Robert et Louise, 64 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris, France

3. The Passages of Paris

If you’re looking for untouristy and more hidden things to do in Paris, then head to the passages . The city has numerous covered malls dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, known as passages.

These days they house interesting shops and restaurants. One of our favourites is Galerie Vivienne , built in 1823 with mosaic floors and some great shops including Jean-Paul Gaultier.

Nearby you can find the Passage du Grand Cerf in rue Saint Denis near the Chatelet les Halles shopping area. It was built in 1825 and is almost 12 metres tall, with an impressive glass roof. The Passage des Panoramas is the oldest covered passage in Paris and can be found in the 2nd arrondissement at 11 Bd Montmartre.

The Galerie Vero-Dodat dates from 1826 and was one of the first passages to get gas lighting, in 1830. This shopping arcade houses two Christian Louboutin stores and the “By Terry” renowned make-up range.

A very cool option for a drink before or after dinner is Andy Wahloo on rue des Gravilliers. There’s a hidden Paris courtyard with Moroccan inspired decor.

It comes as no surprise that it’s owned by the Mazouz brothers who are behind Sketch and Momo in London.

A great place for dinner is Le Grand Colbert , which film buffs will recognize from the film “Something’s Gotta Give” with Jack Nicholson and Diane Keaton. It’s a classic Parisian bistro serving up simple dishes like the roast chicken that Diane Keaton had in the film.

The building itself dates from 1825 and became a restaurant in 1900. It’s listed as a historical monument and has an impressive dining room with a mosaic floor as well as sculpted pillars in a Pompeian style.

Address: Le Grand Colbert, 2 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris, France

4. Promenade Plantee

One of our favourite secret things to do in Paris, this raised park was built on a disused viaduct and soars above the streets. The walk starts behind Bastille Opera House , passes above avenue Daumesnil to the Jardin de Reuilly and finishes at Porte Dorée near the Bois de Vincennes.

Also known as the Coulée Verte René-Dumont , quite a few Parisians don’t know of its existence. It’s a pleasant 4.7 kilometer scenic walk, which was completed in 1993. This Parisian walkway was the inspiration behind the Highline in New York.

The park is planted with many rosebushes, trees and climbing plants. You get a great view over the surrounding buildings like this Postmodernist masterpiece.

Although this looks like an Art Deco era building, it was completed in 1991. Designed by Spanish architect Manolo Nuñez-Yanowsky, it houses a police station.

Below the viaduct, there’s a good selection of design shops and some good brunch spots like Brasserie L’Arrosoir on Avenue Daumesnil.

Address:  1 Coulée verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France

5. Rue de l’Abreuvoir

Whilst Montmartre can be extremely busy, especially the area around Sacre Coeur Basilica, there are some lesser known streets that are well worth seeking out. Rue de l’Abreuvoir is one of our favorite Montmartre hidden gems, with its cobbled paving stones and pretty pink houses.

At the top of this picturesque Paris street, there’s La Maison Rose , one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris. The restaurant was painted pink by its original owners, Laure Germaine and her husband Ramon. Several famous artists such as Pablo Picasso and Maurice Utrillo frequented this charming place.

Address: Rue de l’Abreuvoir , 75018 Paris, France

6. Montmartre Vineyard

Did you know that the only vineyard in Paris can also be found in Montmartre? Located on rue des Saules, La Vigne du Clos Montmartre vineyard holds an annual harvest festival, La Fete des Vendanges .

You can only visit Montmartre Vineyard as part of a guided wine tasting tour, however you can buy their wine all year round at the Musée de Montmartre and at La Maison des Epicuriens, 46 rue Lamarck.

Address: 18 Rue des Saules, 75018 Paris, France

7. The Sinking House

Also in Montmartre, don’t miss the incredible sinking house which you may have spotted on Instagram! You can find this building just next to the steps in front of Sacre Coeur. It’s an optical illusion, but if you rotate your photos it certainly looks like it is disappearing into the grass!

Address: 1 Rue Lamarck, 75018 Paris, France

8. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

One of the best hidden gems in Paris is the Buttes-Chaumont Park. Located in the 19th arrondissement in the North East of Paris, this is the fifth largest park in Paris.

It opened in 1867 and has several impressive features, including a 1.5 hectare lake around the Île de la Belvédère, a rocky island. At the top, you’ll spot the Temple de la Sibylle , a miniature copy of the Roman Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, Italy.

There is also a grotto inspired by English landscape gardens, and an artificial waterfall. Above the lake is a 63-meter suspension bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel, famous for the Eiffel Tower.

Address: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, 75019 Paris, France

9. Rue Cremieux

This Instagrammable Paris street has cobbled paving stones and many colorful houses. Situated in the 12th arrondissement of Paris, it is named after lawyer and politician Adolphe Crémieux.

Originally construction workers’ houses, the properties on rue Crémieux are now highly covetable. However, the residents do have to contend with this popular spot having an influx of visitors taking photographs!

Address: Rue Crémieux, 75012 Paris France

10. Paris Catacombs

20 meters underground in the 14th arrondissement, lies a macabre secret – the bones of millions of Parisians. Their remains were transferred there in the late 18th century due to public health concerns.

From 1809 onwards, the Paris Catacombs were open to the public by appointment. These days, you can purchase an individual or group ticket to visit.

There are 243 steps and a 1.5 km circuit so allow an hour and wear comfortable shoes.

Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris, France

11. Bercy Village

The Bercy District is a vast leisure area in the 12th arrondissement, with a public park and The Pavillons of Bercy, aka the Museum of Fairground Arts. Bercy Village has many good restaurants and boutiques housed in former wine cellars.

Visitors can enjoy a drink at Café Oz Rooftop or head to the UGC Ciné Cité multiplex cinema.

Address: 28 Rue François Truffaut, 75012 Paris, France

12. Rue Mouffetard

Experience Paris like a local in Rue Mouffetard in the 5th arrondissement. Originally a Roman road, this pedestrianized street in the 5th arrondissement has no airs and graces.

A true hidden gem, you’ll find many neighborhood cafes and specialty food stores in this area of Paris. Fromagerie Androet is a great cheese store, with a beautiful Rennaissance fresco above it.

Address: Rue Mouffetard , 75005 Paris, France

13. Canal Saint-Martin

A great place to go for a stroll, the Canal Saint-Martin is popular with local Parisians who come here at the weekends. Located in the 10th arrondissement, it has appeared in movies such as Amélie and Mission Impossible: Fallout.

You can also take a canal boat ride here or simply enjoy a drink in one of the many bistros and bars lining the route. One of these is the Hôtel du Nord , built in 1885 and immortalized in the film by Marcel Carné in 1938.

The starting point of this unique Paris gem is Place de la Bataille-de-Stalingrad in the 19th district of Paris. The finishing point is at Quai de la Rapée in the 12th district.

14. Musée Jacquemart-André

One of the most beautiful museums in Paris, this hidden gem in the 8th arrondissement was formerly the home of  Édouard André and Nélie Jacquemart. Avid collectors, they filled their home with treasures from their travels to Italy and the Orient.

The Sculpture Gallery has some fine examples of 15th and 16th century sculptures. There’s also a charming tea room with a terrace overlooking the courtyard.

Address: 158 Boulevard Haussmann, 75008 Paris, France

15. Square du Vert-Galant

Created in 1884 when two islands were joined to the Ile de la Cité, the Square du Vert-Galant is a perfect place to enjoy a picnic on a sunny day in Paris. You get great views of the river Seine, the Hôtel de la Monnaie and the Musée du Louvre here.

Next to the famous Pont Neuf bridge, it’s quite a small park so get there early to nab the best spot!

Address: 15 Place du Pont Neuf, 75001 Paris, France

16. Sainte-Chapelle

Less well known than Notre Dame Cathedral, La Sainte-Chapelle is an extraordinary royal chapel on the Île de la Cité. Work on this beautiful building started in 1238 and was completed in 1248.

Designed in the Gothic style to house King Louis IX’s relics of the passions collection, it has some of the best examples of 13th century stained glass windows in the world.

Address: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France

17. The Abbey Bookshop

Opened in 1989 by Canadian Brian Spence, The Abbey Bookshop is known for its cozy, inviting atmosphere. There are books stacked up to the ceiling and comforting reading nooks.

Hidden away in the Latin Quarter, it has over 40,000 English titles in stock. This is one of the few remaining independent English bookstores in Paris, along with Shakespeare and Company.

Address: 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris, France

18. Grand Mosque of Paris

La Grande Mosquée de Paris was built in the 1920s in Moorish style. The mosque complex is open to visitors Saturday to Thursday from 9am to noon and 2pm to 6pm.

It is closed on Fridays for prayer services. The entrance fee is 3 euros and modest dress is advised.

The Islamic-style gardens with fountains are lovely to stroll through. If you have time, book for tea, lunch or dinner at the Grand Mosque Restaurant.

With its original 1920s tiled interior, this beautiful place is usually quite busy. The Hammam at the Grand Mosque is also a true hidden gem in Paris.

Address: 2bis Place du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris, France

19. Musée Rodin

The Rodin Museum is an unmissable Paris attraction. It’s housed in the Hôtel Biron in the upmarket 7th arrondissement.

The Musée Rodin contains the largest collection of works by the French sculptor Auguste Rodin, including iconic sculptures like The Thinker and The Kiss. Rodin donated his entire collection to the French state in 1908.

This unique Paris museum is set amidst beautiful formal French gardens. The gardens house many of Rodin’s famous outdoor sculptures like The Gates of Hell and the Monument to Balzac.

Address: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France

20. Rue de l’Université

This pretty street in the 7th arrondissement of Paris runs parallel to the Seine River. It offers a spectacular view of the Eiffel Tower, especially from the southern end of the street near Allée Paul Deschanel.

Standing on Rue de l’Université near the intersection with Avenue de Suffren, you can see the Eiffel Tower perfectly framed at the eastern end of the street. Early morning and late afternoon are especially good times for photography from this vantage point, as the lighting illuminates the Eiffel Tower.

Final Thoughts on the Best Hidden Gems in Paris

If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience in Paris, be sure to check out some of these secret places. They’re all great inclusions for your Paris itinerary. And after all that sightseeing, what about a bit of retail therapy in  the 5 hottest Paris shopping districts?

Our other France articles can help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in this beautiful country. We’ve rounded up the most famous French landmarks that you shouldn’t miss.

And if you’re a fan of getting off the beaten path, you might want to check out our articles on hidden gems in Ibiza , London , Rome and Venice .

You might also enjoy:

• Fun Things to Do in Bourges, France
• Fun Things to Do on Ile de Ré
• Cool Things to Do in Languedoc, South France
• Luxurious French Riviera Places
• Most Luxurious Department Stores in the World
• One Day in Monaco
• Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, South of France

Check out some more international hidden gems below.

Like these hidden gems in Paris? Pin for later or share with friends .

Looking for more travel hacks and tips? From hidden gems to unique experiences, we’ve got you covered. Join us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  Pinterest  and  Twitter .

Sharing is caring!

Suze and Paul Renner

Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

33 thoughts on “20 Best Hidden Gems in Paris, France”

Pingback: 5 hottest Paris shopping districts - Luxury Columnist

How cool. Paris is just full of surprises.

You’re right, for a smallish city, it certainly does have a lot of cool surprises

That’s really kind V, and I’m really glad that you managed to get into Paris after all – I’ve had a few scary passport moments myself!

I hope your niece gets to check out some of the places, we really had fun going off the beaten track!

I went to Paris when I was a teenager on a class trip and I have always wanted to go back on my own and just explore. I am now dying to get over to The Maris! Thanks for sharing these hidden gems — I am saving this for when I do get back to Paris!

The Marais is my favourite part of Paris, many of the other parts were standardised by Baron Haussman and they look lovely but the Marais is really quirky. Hope you get to go back soon!

Thanks Laura, my hubbie did a great job capturing the birds – they were moving around so much!

I’ll be in Paris in April, looking forward to seeing some of these favorite haunts again!

Have fun Noel, and if you’re ever in London, do let me know!

Well I thought I had explored Paris having been a few times, clearly not this post has reinvigorated the want to visit. Le Marais District looks beautiful Lucy x

Le Marais is so lovely, there’s even more new parks and museums – I really want to get to the Picasso Museum again

L’Arrosoir was great and the walk along the viaduct is great, so far away from any beeping horns! I loved my visit to Chicago by the way though was a good few years ago

Hope you get to go there soon Kay, it’s amazing how much you can cram in as it’s such a compact city

Place des Vosges is brilliant in Summertime, but it’s very atmospheric in Winter wandering around under the arches!

Hope you do get up there Lauren, must be quite quick on the TGV? Looking forward to reading about your trip

I’m taking note of this! Thanks for sharing 🙂

STYLE VANITY

Thanks Alyssa, hope you get to visit Paris at some point

The Palais Royal Gardens look gorgeous, great list!

Thanks Becky, the gardens are indeed lovely and there’s some really nice little cafes around the edges

Thanks Camille, hope you have a fantastic time in Paris!

A most excellent write-up of charming finds. I love the hidden passages; you’re right, it’s as though you’re in on a secret. Now I have an entire list for our next visit. Terrific post!

Thanks Betsy, that’s very kind. Hope you have an amazing trip to Paris

Thanks Emily, Pershing Hall is great and the cocktails are to die for

Glad you liked it and hope you have fun on your next trip Ruby

Thank you, I hope that you get to visit again soon!

Spring is such a great time to visit

I’m really glad you liked it Maria

These are indeed hidden gems, I would love to see these places next time – love the visuals Suze.

Thanks Noel, Paris is so photogenic!

I love the street with gold leaf carpet stretching. That’s so romantic.

Pingback: 15 Unmissable Hidden Gems In Paris, France – TSBA Blog

Comments are closed.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

The Best Times to Visit Paris for Great Weather, Events, and Fewer Crowds

Not that you can ever go wrong with a trip to the City of Light.

Paris is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, stuffed with iconic landmarks, renowned museums, designer boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants.

There are advantages to visiting in every season. Although January through March are the chilliest months, they're also the quietest and the best for wrapping up in a chic coat and experiencing Paris like a local. In the spring, vibrant blooms in the famed jardins are a major draw, while the long summer days create the ideal conditions for sipping cocktails at an outdoor brasserie late into the evening. September and October are arguably the best months to visit, when the air turns brisk, Paris Fashion Week is in full force, and changing leaves accent the city.

To help you decide when to travel to Paris, here are the main tourist seasons:

• High season: June to August and late December
• Shoulder seasons: April to May and September to November
• Low season: Early December and January to April

Ready to book your trip to the City of Light? These are the best times to visit Paris depending on your priorities.

Best Time to Visit Paris to Avoid Crowds

Paris is one of the most popular destinations in the world, with tourism peaking between June and August. There are major downsides to visiting Paris in its high season: Large crowds make exploring popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre more time-consuming, and you might need a reservation to dine at trendy restaurants. Hotel prices, too, will inevitably climb in the summer months.

If your main objective is to avoid crowds, visit between October and April — sidestepping the jam-packed holiday season in December. Go at the beginning or end of this window for temperatures still comfortable enough to sit outside at one of the quintessentially Parisian cafe tables.

To see the city's top tourist attractions with fewer people around, aim to visit on weekday mornings, but check the official tourism website since many museums are closed one day or more each week. Other crowd-beating tactics include buying tickets that allow you to skip the line and walking instead of squeezing into public transportation. Paris is best enjoyed on foot anyway.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

Best Time to Visit Paris for Good Weather

Travelers are drawn to Paris in the summer because of the long days and sunny weather. It's a stunning time to see the sights, from Sacré Cœur to the Jardin du Luxembourg, and the laid-back atmosphere at cafes and along the Seine is a treat. It's worth noting, however, that Paris is not known for its air conditioning. In fact, AC isn't as common in Europe as it is in the U.S., though most hotels have it. While Paris can see heat waves that bring temperatures in the 80s and 90s, summer temperatures are generally comfortable, in the mid-70s range.

Winter in Paris is relatively mild, but avoid visiting between December and February if you're averse to temperatures in the 30s and 40s. Does it snow in Paris? Not really. The city receives a dusting now and again, but visitors needn't pack bulky gear for extreme weather. Spring temperatures are typically pleasant, in the 50s and 60s, but come with a higher chance of rain — May is one of the rainiest months in Paris. Fall can also bring wet weather. From mid-September to November, after the Labor Day and Fashion Week rushes, Paris quiets down and the weather becomes crisp and autumnal.

Best Time to Visit Paris for Lower Prices

The cheapest time to visit Paris is during the off-season — in the winter, before and after the holiday rush, which means early December, January, and February. These months see average temperatures in the 30s and 40s, but if you don't mind the cold, you'll likely save on flights, public transportation, attractions, and accommodations.

Visiting Paris in winter is special — not least because the restaurants are less crowded and attractions quieter — as well as easy and affordable. Cons include fewer tour options and less frequent tours, including a reduced timetable for cruises on the Seine.

Best Times to Visit Paris for Holidays and Festivals

The city's calendar is packed with festivals, holidays, and traditions worth traveling for. Let's start with the biggest sporting events: the Paris Marathon is typically held in April, the French Open begins in May and ends in June, and the Tour de France typically zooms into Paris in July.

In May, museums across the city open their doors for free perusing after hours on La Nuit des Musées . In the summer, the iconic Fête de la Musique brings live music to parks and other public spaces on June 21, and Bastille Day is marked by military parades and fireworks on July 14. The Paris Jazz Festival is an ongoing event from June to September. Both fall and spring attract the international style set to Paris Fashion Week, held in late September/early October and late February/early March.

Starting around mid-November, the holiday season in Paris sees grand boulevards like the Champs-Élysées ablaze with Christmas lights and holiday markets popping up around the city. Parisians wrap up the holidays with the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6, which is when you'll find king cake (or galette des rois ) on market tables and in bakery windows everywhere.

Worst Times to Visit Paris

There's no bad time to visit Paris — the city is remarkable any time of year, even when it's bitterly cold or sweltering and teeming with tourists. But if you're easily annoyed by heat and crowds, you should probably think twice about a trip in July or August. If you happen to be in Paris during a heat wave, you could be quite uncomfortable sans AC in some attractions, shops, and cafes. And during the high season, prices are correspondingly high.

The holidays are another chaotic (albeit magical) time in Paris. By all means, go in December if you want to shop for unique gifts and see Christmas lights galore, but avoid this period if you're hoping for a quiet trip.

Related Articles