SIGHTSEEING:
BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN PARIS
Regardless of being a newcomer to Paris or a long-term resident, the city’s renowned monuments, museums, and landmarks never cease to amaze! With such historical treasures at every turn, why not make the most of your time and explore? But which spots should you prioritise visiting in Paris?
While there are countless destinations worth experiencing for those living in Paris, first-time visitors with limited time should consider the following five must-see attractions that are sure to delight everyone:
NB: We link to Tiqets, which sell tickets at excellent rates and where you will find all the fees, options and tax breakdown information.
1) SEINE RIVER
Walking along the seine river in central Paris is an absolute must. You’ll be able to view many famous monuments such as the Eiffel Tower as well as other beautiful buildings and it simply is the best place to be in Paris. Early in the morning, afternoon or at night, you can’t go wrong. You can even take a boat ride and cruise around or even make have a drink or two while you’re at it. You can take a tour on a Parisian Vedette boat for 20 euros (per person) and enjoy an aperitif such as champagne, beer or soft drink (we of course recommend the bubbly!).
2) VIEWING TOP LANDMARKS BY BUS
Why visit one when you can see them all! While we also recommend exploring Paris on your own most of the time, either by walking or bike, we think it’s also fun to do a bus tour (especially if you’re short on time) where a guide explains the significance and you can rest your tired feet! A bus tour is also a great way of viewing all the major Parisian monuments because unlike the boat, you can see more of Paris rather than what’s along the river and just sit back and take it all in!
The best thing about Paris is that unlike so many boring cities, Paris is FULL of amazing stories. Fairy tales like the Hunchback of Notre Dame to real life history that goes back to pre-historic times when France was made up of celtic tribes, to it’s role as a key Roman city, to viking invasions, centuries of French Kings, World War 1 and 2, art and artists, scientific innovation etc. Never a dull moment in Paris!
We recommend doing a night tour when all the landmarks are lit up. The Hop on Hop off Tootbus costs around 50 euros per person and Meanwhile the regular hop on hop off bus tour runs all day and is a super convenient way of getting around Paris (rather than taking the metro). You can can simply get off wherever you like and visit whichever landmark you prefer since they stop at every major landmark around Paris.
Also, there are some really cool experiences like the Bus Toque where which allows you to have dinner on the bus! It sounds crazy but we tried it out and food is surprisingly good and it’s also a pretty smooth ride!
Big Bus Hop on Hop Off tickets
3) EIFFEL TOWER
You cannot escape her. You will see her when you arrive from the airport and from many vantages across Paris. And there is no better view OF Paris than from the big old iron beauty herself! Besides stunning views, the structure itself is a work of art. Getting up close and seeing the grande dame is an awesome experience! The Eiffel Tower is not just emblematic of Paris, she is a representative of France, Europe, travel and even romance. You are likely to see a few men drop down to their knees to propose while you are here, and there is even a Michelin starred restaurant (bookings are often more than 6 months in advance!). If you think this is too pedestrian then considering walking up the 674 steps to the 2nd floor (1665 in total). For those happy to take the lift (elevator), we recommend the Guided tour by lift + summit option. When you get to the first and main floor you’re like OK this is cool, but when you get to the summit – at the very tip of the tower – you will be impressed (not advised for anyone with claustrophobia or vertigo).
4) ARC DE TRIOMPHE
The Arc de Triomphe is yet another famous symbol of Paris. You can get there from almost anywhere in Paris since below ground of the Arc de Triomphe, Etoile, is a big hub. You can also reach it by walking from the Champs Elysees. Most people don’t realise that it is actually a fairly large structure and that you can actually climb up it and view from its rooftop. There is a ton of history to learn at the Arc de Triomphe, which stands testament to the military success of French armed forces. It was actually commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte after France’s victory over Austrians in Austerlitz and today remains an important military monument with the tomb of an unknown solider below. Besides the great view, there is a small museums inside.
5) SACRE COEUR BASILICA
Next to Notre Dame, the Sacre Coeur (Sacred Heart) Basilica is an iconic landmark that sits atop the Monmartre district. As Monmartre is situated upon a big hill you not only get fantastic views of Paris from Sacre Coeur but getting up there after walking up all kinds of charming streets is the best part. Monmartre was always home to artists and bohemian Paris and while now a tad touristy, you still have authentic corners and events such as regular farmer’s markets where you can buy loads of artisanal products. Besides visiting the church (in silence please), you can even climb the steps to view from the top! We also recommend spending time exploring around Sacre Coeur as well, such as finding your way to the only vineyard in Paris, the famous Lapin Agile cabaret. There are some cool bars and restaurants around Pigalle area a good 15 minutes walk down Sacre Coeur but note the area around Pigalle is a tad grimy particularly at night.
And if you’re looking for something more active and original to do, there are loads of interesting active things to do as well as such as taking a parkour class, horse riding in Versailles or even taking a small motor boat out on the river!
Finally, if you’re looking for a good deal, you can purchase the Paris City Card which includes a cruise along the seine via Bateaux Parisiens, Louvre museum access plus access to the Eiffel Tower and an audio guide (app). And if you have a kids or just looking for something a bit more relaxed, the Paris Family Fun Pass, which includes access to the Paris Zoo (world class and not to be missed!), Gallerie D’Evolution at the Natural History Museum (skip the line) and the Grevin Wax museum. Click below for more details!