Paris, the city of lights, is filled with romantic streets, beautiful architecture, and exquisite cuisine. If you’re planning a trip to Paris, there are endless opportunities for you to have an unforgettable experience. Here are 15 of my favorite things to do in Paris that can make your visit even more enriching:
1. Visit the Musée du Louvre
One of the world’s most famous museums, the Louvre houses a vast collection of art from ancient to modern times. From the Mona Lisa to the Venus de Milo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The museum is huge, so it’s easy to spend hours wandering around and admiring the exhibits.
2. Take a walk along the Seine River
The Seine River is the lifeblood of Paris, and taking a walk along its banks is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city. You can choose to take a walk on the Left Bank, the Right Bank, or both. Get a scoop of ice cream and relax as you stroll along the river.
3. Visit the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. This iconic landmark offers stunning views of the city. While it’s gorgeous during the day, it really comes into its own after dark. The tower is lit up with thousands of lights, creating a magical display. You can choose to take the stairs or the elevator to the top, but either way, the views are worth it.
4. Visit the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is another iconic Parisian landmark. This triumphal arch was built to commemorate the victories of the French army. You can climb to the top of the arch for panoramic views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées.
5. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral
Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. This Gothic masterpiece is known for its beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate architecture. Soak in its beauty as you explore the interior of the cathedral.
6. Take a cooking class
If you’re a foodie, taking a cooking class is a great way to learn more about French cuisine. There are many cooking schools in Paris that offer classes for all levels. You’ll learn how to make classic French dishes, such as coq au vin and crème brûlée.
7. Visit the Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a magnificent palace that was once home to the French monarchy. The palace is filled with opulent rooms, beautiful gardens, and a stunning hall of mirrors. Versailles is a great place to spend a day exploring and learning about French history.
8. Visit the Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is home to a collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The museum’s collection includes works by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Cézanne. It also has one of the largest collections of Van Gogh’s works in the world.
9. Take a bike tour
There are many bike tours available in Paris. This is a great way to see the city while stopping by some of Paris’s most popular attractions. You’ll ride past the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe. Along the way, you’ll learn about the city’s history and culture.
10. Visit the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Paris. The area is home to the Sorbonne University, many bookstores, and cozy cafes. Wander around the narrow streets and soak in the neighborhood’s lively atmosphere.
11. Visit the Montmartre district
Montmartre is a bohemian district that is located on a hill overlooking Paris. The area is home to many artists and musicians. It’s also home to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, which is a beautiful white church that offers stunning views of the city.
12. Go shopping on the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. The avenue is lined with luxury stores, boutiques, and cafes. You can find everything from designer clothes to souvenirs on the Champs-Élysées.
13. Visit the Père Lachaise Cemetery
Père Lachaise Cemetery is one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. The cemetery is the resting place of many famous people, including Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf. It’s a beautiful and peaceful place to wander around and pay your respects to some of history’s most iconic figures.
14. Take a day trip to Giverny
Giverny is a small town that is located about an hour outside of Paris. The town is famous for being the home of Claude Monet. You can visit Monet’s house and gardens, which are now a museum. The gardens are filled with beautiful flowers and water lilies, which were the inspiration for many of Monet’s paintings.
15. Relax in a Parisian café
One of the best ways to experience Paris is to relax in a Parisian café. Order a coffee and a croissant, and watch the world go by. You can find cafés all over the city, so you’re sure to find one that you love.
These are just a few of the many amazing things that you can do in Paris. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable vacation.
Kind regards M. Stone