10 Tourist Places To Explore In Paris

"Paris serves as a constant reminder that all your aspirations are attainable." ~ Audrey Hepburn

The initial glimpse of the breathtaking Eiffel Tower leaves you in awe, prompting you to venture into the finest destinations to explore in Paris.

Whether it's your maiden voyage or your hundredth, Paris consistently captivates. With its tree-lined boulevards, opulent formal gardens, quaint boutique cafes, and chic shopping districts, Paris has a way of romanticizing every aspect of life.

The attractions in Paris aren't just ordinary sights; they are captivating visual experiences that etch lasting memories in your mind. Whether it's a park, a cathedral, or a museum, Paris boasts so many enchanting places that it's impossible to cover them all in one visit!

That's why we've handpicked this selection of the top spots to explore in Paris, offering you a chance to include them in your itinerary for an unforgettable sightseeing adventure.

# Eiffel Tower

You might have come across the Eiffel Tower countless times on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and various other social media networks, but witnessing it in person is a truly enchanting experience that leaves many travelers at a loss for words. After all, can you even imagine Paris without its iconic symbol, the Eiffel Tower?

Conceived by Gustave Eiffel as a tribute to the French Revolution's centenary, this towering structure stands at an impressive height of 324 meters. You can actually ascend to the second floor at 275 meters to savor breathtaking panoramic views of the city, an experience that ranks among the most memorable ones you'll encounter in Paris. And let's not forget, the allure of this magnificent tower attracts nearly 7 million visitors each year. That's truly astounding, isn't it?

# Louvre Museum

Enduring lengthy queues just for a glimpse of the Mona Lisa painting? There must be something truly exceptional about it! Indeed, there is. The world's most renowned Mona Lisa painting is housed within the Louvre Museum in Paris. As one of the most frequently visited destinations in Paris, if not the world, the Louvre boasts an astonishing collection of 35,000 artworks, spanning from ancient artifacts to European paintings.

Opting for skip-the-line tours allows you to bypass the queues and gain direct access to the museum, where you can marvel at iconic masterpieces, including the Venus de Milo sculpture. If you're passionate about such cultural experiences, consider embarking on a comprehensive three-hour guided tour, which offers insightful commentary on these masterpieces. Additionally, the museum's proximity to the Jardin des Tuileries is an added bonus.

# Notre Dame Cathedral

Passionate about architecture? There's no superior destination to explore in Paris than the Notre Dame Cathedral. Wander through the vicinity of Notre Dame and ascend the 387 steps nestled within its walls to reach the summit. It undoubtedly demands physical effort, but the panoramic vista it offers is utterly rewarding.

The Gallery of Kings, prominently featured here, showcases a series of 28 exquisitely carved sculptures representing the French monarchs. The heads of these kings were lost during the Revolution, but you can view them at the Musée de Cluny. Inside the cathedral, the stained-glass windows steal the spotlight, with the most remarkable one illustrating 80 scenes from the Old Testament centered around the Virgin Mary.

# Montmartre

Montmartre, a whimsical neighborhood deeply entrenched in the artistic realm, stands out as one of Paris's premier destinations. Its allure lies in its enchanting cobbled streets, charming bistros, and the majestic Basilica, which have evolved from its traditional village ambiance. Montmartre holds a special appeal for artists, making it a must-visit if you count yourself among them during your Paris sojourn.

The Sacre-Coeur, the area's most prominent landmark, is nothing short of a masterpiece, exuding grandeur and elegance. Notably, the famous "Wall of Love" or "Le Mur des Je t’aimes," adorned with "I Love You" inscribed 311 times in 250 languages, serves as a major attraction. Moreover, Montmartre is renowned as the stage for the world-famous Moulin Rouge Show.

# Arc de Triomphe/ Champs Elysées

You might be curious about why we've paired these two together, right? Well, the Champs Elysées, a magnificent avenue, leads you directly to the Arc de Triomphe. Both of these sites are among the most frequented attractions in Paris, showcasing remarkable architecture, rich historical significance, and cultural legacies.

Can you believe that Champs Elysées welcomes a staggering 300,000 visitors each day? It's no surprise, given that the avenue is adorned with upscale luxury boutiques, charming cafés, theaters, and an abundance of beauty.

Upon your first glimpse of the Arc de Triomphe de l’Étoile, you might find yourself drawing parallels with India Gate, as they share a structural resemblance. This monument is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, owing to its design and construction inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, Italy. While there, make sure not to miss the inscriptions of French generals' names, references to French victories, patriotic quotes, and messages adorning the walls of this architectural marvel.

# Tuileries Garden

How could one possibly visit Paris and overlook its exquisite gardens? It's simply unjust! The Jardin des Tuileries ranks among the paramount attractions in Paris. Whether you're a couple seeking romance or a family seeking relaxation, a visit to this public garden promises to rejuvenate your spirit. You have the freedom to take leisurely strolls or simply bask in the serene beauty of its tree-lined avenues – the choice is yours!

The Tuileries Garden comes with a wholehearted recommendation due to its picturesque landscape and strategic location. Can you imagine a more splendid way to pass the time than basking in the sunlight while gazing upon the fountains and captivating sculptures nestled in the heart of the city? Even if you're not particularly fond of gardens, this is undeniably one of the premier tourist attractions in Paris that you shouldn't overlook.

# Musée d’Orsay

Eager to delve into French history? Look no further than the Musée d’Orsay, where you can feast your eyes on a remarkable collection of Impressionist art spanning the years from 1848 to 1914. As you wander through its expansive galleries, brimming with some of the world's most cherished paintings, you'll quickly understand why Musée d’Orsay ranks among the top historical destinations in Paris.

This museum boasts the masterpieces of iconic Impressionists such as Edgar Degas, Edouard Manet, Pierre Bonnard, and even Vincent van Gogh. Can you believe it? Among its renowned pieces, you'll encounter Claude Monet’s "The Magpie" and Vincent van Gogh’s self-portrait along with "Starry Night." If you're a book enthusiast, you'll also find a book store, a gift shop, and two cafés right on-site to complement your visit.

# Palais Garnier

For an extraordinary sightseeing experience in Paris, a visit to the Palais Garnier is an absolute must. This iconic landmark stands as one of the most impressive and sought-after attractions in Paris, serving as a testament to the grandeur of the Second Empire. The moment you step foot inside the Opéra Garnier, prepare to be captivated by the immense chandelier suspended from the exquisitely crafted ceiling, boasting a staggering weight of 7 tonnes in pure bronze.

The entire edifice is a splendid masterpiece, blending elegance and eccentricity seamlessly. At every turn, you'll encounter opulent baroque statues, intricate carvings, and magnificent sculptures. With such an abundance of beauty and refinement concentrated in one place, it's virtually impossible not to fall in love with Paris. Moreover, the auditorium's stage is so vast that it can accommodate over 450 artists simultaneously, further adding to the allure of this remarkable venue.

# The Latin Quarter

Explore one of the captivating destinations in Paris, the Latin Quarter. Abundant in both culture and geography, this area graces the left bank of the River Seine and envelops the prestigious University of Paris. Internationally renowned as a prominent educational hub, it is adorned with charming cafes, bistros, pubs, restaurants, and shopping centers.

In addition to the historic University of Paris, you'll find other esteemed institutions like the École Normale Supérieure and the École des Mines de Paris, along with Panthéon-Assas University, nestled within the Latin Quarter. So, if your desire is to spend your time in the City of Lights amidst vibrant streets, the Latin Quarter is undoubtedly the ideal place for you.

# Luxembourg Garden

Divided into two distinct gardens – the French and English styles – the Luxembourg Garden ranks among Paris's top destinations for a delightful outing with your loved ones. Venture to the orchard, which boasts a collection of forgotten and vintage apple varieties, or explore the greenhouse, home to orchids and a mesmerizing rose garden, where you can delve into the realm of botanical heritage. It's a genuinely captivating experience.

Enhancing the charm of the Luxembourg Garden are a substantial pond and meticulously designed geometric forests. If you happen to be on your honeymoon, this garden stands out as one of the most enchanting and romantic places to explore in Paris. Moreover, with a plethora of activities to partake in, it's an ideal spot for a sunny day picnic with your family.