Planning a trip to Paris doesn’t have to be a chore. You’re going to be in one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world! With our suggestions for the best sights in Paris, you’ll have a headstart on putting your Paris itinerary together.
Keep reading for our top choices for the best sights in Paris and start getting excited!
The Best Sights In Paris to Consider for Your Travel Itinerary
Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, known for its stunning architecture, art, culture, and culinary delights. With so much to see and do in Paris, it can be overwhelming to decide which sights to visit during your stay.
Whether you’re putting together a Paris itinerary for first-time visitors or you want to explore places you didn’t get to see before, our list of the best sights in Paris will help you make the most of your trip.
Here are some of the best sights in Paris that should be at the top of your list.
Eiffel Tower Tour
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower, the iconic symbol of Paris that towers above the city’s skyline. When planning a trip to Paris, the Eiffel Tower should be at the top of your list.
The tower, which was built in 1889, offers stunning views of Paris from its observation decks, located at 276 and 906 feet above the ground. To avoid long queues and ensure a hassle-free visit, it’s best to book your Eiffel Tower tour in advance.
You can choose from a range of tours, including skip-the-line tickets, guided tours, and even champagne tastings. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you will need to climb some stairs to reach the observation decks.
Musee du Louvre
The Musee du Louvre is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums, housing a vast collection of art and artifacts from all over the world, and making it one of the best sights in Paris without question.
Some of the most famous works of art are on display at the Louvre include the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
To make the most of your visit to the Louvre, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and decide which exhibits you want to see. The museum is huge, and it can take days to explore it all.
If you’re short on time, consider booking a guided tour to ensure that you see the highlights. Especially if you’re putting together a Paris itinerary for first-time visitors.
Sainte-Chapelle
The Sainte-Chapelle is a stunning Gothic chapel that was built in the 13th century. The chapel is famous for its beautiful stained glass windows, which date back to the 13th century and are considered some of the finest in the world.
Visitors can admire the colorful stained glass windows that adorn the chapel’s walls and ceiling. The Sainte-Chapelle also hosts regular concerts, making it a popular destination for music lovers.
When planning a trip to Paris, you won’t want to miss this highlight.
Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks, and without argument, one of the best sights in Paris. Known for its Gothic architecture and stunning stained glass windows, the cathedral, which dates back to the 12th century, was severely damaged in a fire in 2019, but restoration work is currently underway.
While the interior of the cathedral is closed to visitors, the exterior remains a popular destination for tourists, who come to admire the stunning architecture and take photos of the facade.
Don’t overlook this iconic highlight. It’s one of the most famous places to see in Paris.
Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch that was built in the early 19th century to honor those who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. It’s among the best sights in Paris because of its architecture and stunning views.
The arch is located at the western end of the Champs-Elysees and offers views of the city from its observation deck. To reach the top of the arch, visitors need to climb 284 steps.
If you’re short on time, you can admire the arch from the ground, where you can see the intricate carvings and sculptures that adorn its facade.
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Montmartre is a charming, historic neighborhood located on a hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. This bohemian district is known for its narrow, cobblestone streets, lively atmosphere, and artistic heritage.
Many famous artists, including Picasso, Van Gogh, and Renoir, once called Montmartre home. At the top of the hill, you’ll find the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a white-domed church that offers breathtaking views of Paris from its terrace.
While exploring Montmartre, make sure to visit the Place du Tertre, a bustling square where local artists sell their work, and the Moulin Rouge, the world-famous cabaret that has been entertaining audiences since 1889.
When planning a trip to Paris you’ll want to be sure to add this to your bucket list.
Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is an exquisite museum housed in a former railway station, showcasing an extensive collection of 19th- and early 20th-century art. The museum is home to many renowned works, including those by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh.
The Musée d’Orsay is particularly famous for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings.
To make the most of your visit, consider booking a guided tour or renting an audio guide to learn more about the fascinating history and art on display.
Jardin du Luxembourg
The Jardin du Luxembourg is a beautiful, 60-acre park located in the heart of the city and one of the best sights in Paris. Designed in the 17th century, this elegant garden is the perfect place to relax and enjoy greenery amidst the bustling city.
The park features lush lawns, colorful flowerbeds, picturesque fountains, and charming statues. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of activities, such as renting a sailboat to navigate the park’s central pond, playing a game of tennis, or watching a traditional puppet show at the Théâtre des Marionnettes.
Seine River Cruise
A Seine River cruise is a fantastic way to see many of the famous landmarks and historical sites in Paris while enjoying a relaxing boat ride. Cruises typically last between one and two hours and pass by iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre.
Choose from a variety of cruise options, including daytime sightseeing tours, romantic evening cruises with dinner, or champagne tasting cruises.
Le Marais
Le Marais is a historic and trendy neighborhood located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris. Known for its narrow, winding streets, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, Le Marais is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in fashion, art, and culture.
The area is home to numerous art galleries, designer boutiques, and fashionable cafés.
While in Le Marais, make sure to visit the Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, and the Musée Picasso, which houses an impressive collection of the artist’s works.
Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, located just a short train ride from Paris, is a true testament to the grandeur and extravagance of the French monarchy. If you have the time to get out of the city, then this is definitely one of the best sights in Paris (well, just out of Paris).
As you explore the palace, make sure to visit the King’s State Apartments and the Queen’s State Apartments, each showcasing the opulence of royal life during the reigns of Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI.
Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the magnificent Gardens of Versailles, which span over 800 hectares and feature intricate landscaping, stunning fountains, and impressive sculptures.
To further immerse yourself in the royal experience, consider attending one of the seasonal events held at Versailles, such as the Musical Fountains Show or the Night Fountains Show, both of which offer a unique and magical way to appreciate the palace’s incredible grounds.
Final Thoughts
Planning a trip to Paris can get overwhelming with all the city has to offer. Whether you’re building a Paris itinerary for first-time visitors or planning to see places you missed before, Paris is a city that offers a wealth of culture, history, and beauty for travelers to discover.
With its world-renowned landmarks, museums, gardens, and neighborhoods, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the City of Light.
As you plan your trip, remember to prioritize the best sights in Paris that we mentioned above, such as the Eiffel Tower, Musee du Louvre, and Montmartre, among others. Additionally, consider booking guided tours and reserving tickets in advance to make the most of your time in this enchanting city.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to Paris for another unforgettable experience, these recommendations will help you create lasting memories in the French capital. Bon voyage!
