Best Things to Do in Paris

Whether you like to relax completely on your vacation or love an action-packed holiday, Paris has something for everyone. Museums, bakeries, art, here is our list of the best things to do in Paris.

Visit the Louvre

This has long been one of the best things to do in Paris, and for good reason. The Louvre dates back to 1793 and is the most famous museum in the world and houses a staggering 35,000 works of art. If you were to look at every piece of art in the Louvre, it would take you around 200 days to see everything. Needless to say, it's impossible to see everything on your vacation to the City of Lights. There is definitely a wrong way and a right way to see the Louvre. Come prepared, and try to arrive early to avoid the masses of visitors. Either get a tour of the must-see pieces or, even better, build your own plan of what you want to see in a few hours, and map it out. Your must-see pieces might include the Mona Lisa, Venus of Milo, or the Liberty Leading the People.

visit louvre paris

Shopping in Champs-Elysées

Is shopping your idea of one of the best things to do in Paris? Then take a visit to the shops of Champs-Elysées, where you will find all the luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hugo Boss and the high street brands like the H&M, the Gap, and Zara. This world-famous boulevard is not just a site for shopping but also a major attraction, which takes you from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. If you get tired of shopping, stop off at one of the many restaurants, like The Place To…, located 100 m from the Arc de Triomphe, or for something a little more luxurious, try Restaurant Lasserre.

Cruise Along the Seine River

Well, you can't miss the heart of Paris, the Seine River, and it is not just a beautiful attraction but also one of the best ways to get around the City of Lights, day or night. The Seine neatly divides the city into the Right Bank and the Left Bank, an excellent way to keep your sense of direction while enjoying all the sites and attractions it has to offer. Taking a cruise down the Seine is absolutely one of the best things to do in Paris. There are a variety of options for a cruise, including a luxurious dinner cruise on Bateaux Parisiens, literally Parisian boat-restaurants, where you can choose either to dine for either lunch or dinner, to enjoy a fabulous meal at the same time as enjoying a beautiful cruise appreciating the scenery of Paris. One of the best things to do in Paris, not just to see the sights but also practical, is the Batobus, which is basically a shuttle bus on the River, which you can jump on and off, with affordable all-day tickets.

These are just a few highlights of the best things to do in Paris, but there are many other interesting and beautiful places to visit and do, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, ascending the Eiffel Tower, and having a glass of champagne at the top, strolling through the Jardin des Tuileries, take a tour of Versailles Palace, or climbing the steps to the Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre.

cruise river seine paris


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best parks to visit in Paris for a relaxing and free stroll?

The Tuileries Garden and the Jardin du Luxembourg are two beautiful parks where you can stroll for free. You can admire the tranquil waters of the basin or relax on a lounge chair while enjoying the lush scenery.

How can I avoid long lines at the Musée d'Orsay and get information about its collections before my visit?

To bypass the queues, it's advisable to purchase your tickets in advance online. Additionally, you can check the Musée d'Orsay website for detailed information about its collections, including its iconic works by Monet and other Impressionist artists.

Where can I find the best spots to enjoy wine and discover local cafes frequented by Parisians?

For an authentic experience, head to bustling neighborhoods like the Marais or the Latin Quarter, where you'll find an array of cafes and wine bars frequented by locals. Explore the quaint cobblestone streets and stop by picturesque cafes to enjoy a glass of wine while observing local life.