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The 37 BEST Things to Do in Paris (Local Favorites & Main Attractions)

Sean Finelli Last Updated: May 22, 2025

Home > travel-blog > France > Paris > The 37 BEST Things to Do in Paris (Local Favorites & Main Attractions)

Looking for a unique list of the top things to do in Paris? I just returned from a research trip there, where I chatted with many tour guides and our staff on the ground. I’ve gathered their top recommendations—both the classic sights and some local favorites—and put them together for you!


There are many ways to mess up your trip to Paris, but don’t let bad planning be one of them. Those mega-monuments you have to see (think: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles) should get booked way in advance with skip-the-line tours and tickets.

But what else should you do while you’re in Paris? There’s something for everyone on our list, whether you’re looking for a unique activity or a day filled with art museums. We broke this list up into these subcategories:

  • Museums & Attractions
  • Day Trips
  • Food & Wine
  • Local Experiences
Related Content

Top Things to Do

Where to Stay

Best Tours

Restaurants

Paris Museums & Attractions

What is Paris without art? And yes, there is more to see than the Mona Lisa. We’ll cover our favorite museums and link to relevant content that makes it easy to book a visit on your own or with a guide.

1. Do the Louvre the Right Way

The Louvre | 1st arr. Paris, France

Mona Lisa Paris Louvre La Gioconda Leonardo da Vinci

👉 Book Louvre tours

📖 Read about the Louvre’s top art

📍How to visit the Louvre

The Louvre is the world’s largest museum and home to the very fabric of Western civilization. It’s a must-visit, but beware—this is one place that’s easy to navigate wrong.

Visit during peak hours, and you’ll find yourself in a sea of tourists. Take a wrong turn inside, and you could easily lose 30 minutes wandering through the Sully Wing’s room dedicated to 18th-century urban planning.


So, to toss in a little “shameless plug,” going guided is the way to go. With skip-the-line access, a curated route to famous and lesser-known masterpieces, and expert insights you won’t find in any guidebook, our tours ensure you make the most of your visit.

2. Dive Deep into Impressionism at the Musée d’Orsay

Musée d’Orsay | 1st Arr Paris, France

In any other city, the Musée d’Orsay would undoubtedly be the must-see attraction, but in Paris, it’s shadowed by the iconic Louvre. This is far from a bad thing, though, considering it means you can admire works from Van Gogh, Degas, Monet, and Renoir without the crowds.

Beyond the works, the building itself is a sight to behold. Having started its life as a Beaux-Arts train station built for the 1900s World’s Fair, its grand, arched windows, and stone carvings hint at Paris’ long-held need to be the most beautiful city in the world.


Admission is €16, with reduced prices for youth and free entry on the first Sunday of the month. I’d recommend going with a guide for the best experience, or, at the very least, check out our top things to see at Musée d’Orsay before your visit.

👉 Book Musée d’Orsay tours

📖 Read about Musée d’Orsay’s top art

📍How to visit the Musée d’Orsay

3. Drink Overpriced Champagne on Top of the Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower | 7th arr. Paris, France

Yes, there is a champagne bar at the top of the Eiffel Tower. Yes, it’s a bit of a splurge at around €20. And yes, it’s an experience that screams indulgence—and you deserve it.

Here’s the scoop: you’ll need a lift-access ticket to the summit, but no need to worry about reservations. Just head up, grab your glass of champagne, and soak in the jaw-dropping views of Paris while enjoying your bubbly.

To make the experience extra memorable, visit at sunset and watch the tower come to life with a dazzling display of lights every hour on the hour for five minutes.
We run many Eiffel Tower tours as well as partner with other local providers so you have tons of options. And if you’re hoping for the best view, then you’ll definitely want to book the more exclusive summit tour!

👉 Book Eiffel Tower tours

📖 Read about what to see at the Eiffel Tower

📍How to visit the Eiffel Tower

4. Snoop Through a Millionaire’s Private Museum (Jacquemart-André)

Musée Jacquemart-Andre | 8th arr. Paris, France

If Versailles had a pied-à-terre in Paris, this would be it. Tucked off Boulevard Haussmann, the Jacquemart-André Museum feels more like trespassing into the lavish life of a 19th-century power couple than visiting a public museum. The staircase? Fit for opera capes. The ballroom? Dripping in frescoes and Florence envy.

This isn’t just a museum—it’s a love letter. Édouard André collected art; Nélie Jacquemart, his painter wife, gave it soul. Together, they created a Renaissance shrine with Botticelli, Fragonard, Rembrandt—and had the audacity to live among them.

👉 Book a private tour of Jacquemart-André

5. Ponder Passion and Madness in Rodin’s Secret Garden

Musée Rodin | 7th arr. Paris, France

If the Louvre is a kingdom, the Rodin Museum is a confessional. Behind Hôtel Biron’s iron gate lies a world where marble and bronze whisper secrets. You’ll meet The Thinker brooding in the garden, but don’t stop there. Wander deeper and find The Kiss, The Gates of Hell, and the heartbreak of Ugolino devouring despair.

This isn’t a place to rush. Rodin sculpted emotions in motion. Each work captures not perfection, but torment, beauty, rage—and the questions we’re too afraid to ask.

👉 Book a private Rodin Museum tour

📍How to visit the Rodin Museum Paris

6. See Picasso Unleashed in the Marais

Musée National Picasso-Paris | 3rd arr. Paris, France

Exterior view of the mansion in Paris that houses the Musee Picasso
LPLT, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Think you know Picasso? Get in line. The Picasso Museum in the Hôtel Salé doesn’t just show you his masterpieces—it detonates the myth and leaves you chasing the man. His sketches, unfinished canvases, ceramics, and letters feel like fragments from a fever dream.

This is the raw Picasso. The one who loved, raged, reinvented himself a hundred times, and called Paris his canvas. The museum moves through his life like a film reel—messy, genius, unfiltered.

👉 Book a private Picasso Museum tour

📖 Read about the Picasso Museum’s top art

📍How to visit Musée Picasso in Paris

7. Get Swept Away by Monet’s Water Lilies at the Orangerie

Musée de l’Orangerie | 1st arr. Paris, France

Claude Monet’s Water Lilies are world-famous for good reason, and you can experience their full glory at the Orangerie.

These eight massive works span the walls of two oval rooms, which were specifically designed by Monet to showcase his masterpieces and give visitors the sense of stepping into his beloved garden at Giverny.

Monet’s genius lies in his ability to capture the ever-changing reflections on water, and as you stroll through the space, the colors shift with your movement, creating a uniquely immersive experience.

Forget screens and virtual reality—this is how you surround yourself with art. If it’s a rainy day in Paris, this is the perfect way to brighten your mood.

📖 Read about the L’Orangerie’s top art

📍How to visit the Musée De L’Orangerie

8. Get Lost in the Stripes at Palais Royal’s Iconic Installation

Domaine National du Palais-Royal | 1st arr. Paris, France

Ever heard Jack Johnson sing that famous line, “Pave paradise and put up a parking lot.” Well, Paris must have an extended version: “After you put up a parking lot, call a famous artist and make it a monumental modern art installation.”


Would a park full of trees be more beautiful? You decide when you go to Paris and visit Palais Royal. There is a courtyard (free to enter) where you’ll find 260 marble-painted columns by Daniel Buren. It’s an excellent site and an interesting photo to take!

9. Glimpse the Underground Lair of the Phantom of the Opera

Palais Garnier | 9th arr. Paris, France

Garnier Opera House in Paris, France

Ready to be wowed? The Palais Garnier Opera House, one of Paris’ most jaw-dropping landmarks, somehow flies under the radar. Maybe it’s because it’s not smack in the middle of the major tourist spots, or maybe people don’t realize you can wander inside without needing to catch a performance.

Either way, now that you’re in on the secret, grab a self-guided or guided tour of this over-the-top 19th-century Beaux-Arts marvel. Between the chandelier-filled Grand Foyer and the red-and-gold opulence of the auditorium, you’ll probably feel fancier just by walking in.


Oh, and if you’ve ever hummed The Phantom of the Opera, you’ll be interested to know that Palais Garnier is home to the real underground lake that helped inspire the Phantom’s eerie lair. Self-guided tours are €15, but why not spring for the €23 guided option and get all the insider stories?

10. Count the Stained-Glass Windows at Sainte-Chapelle Chapel

Sainte-Chapelle | 1st arr. Paris, France

It’s the 13th century, and King Louis IX is looking for a fitting home for his most sacred relics, including the Crown of Thorns. His solution? To commission Sainte-Chapelle—a stunning Gothic chapel that, when completed in 1248, became famous not for its relics, but for its incredible stained-glass windows.

As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a sea of vivid colors pouring through 1,113 windows that tell Biblical tales from the Old and New Testaments. Even better, Sainte-Chapelle is only a short walk from Notre Dame, making it a perfect two-in-one sightseeing spot!

👉 Book a tour of Saint-Chapelle

11. Walk Through the Incredible Notre Dame Restoration

Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris | 4th arr. Paris, France

stained glass windows in altar of notre dame

For nearly five years, Notre Dame stood behind scaffolding, its future uncertain after a disastrous fire brought down its famous spire. But the wait is over, and the cathedral is once again open to visitors. Entry is free, but to avoid the line that stretches for blocks, booking ahead is the best move. Want a closer look at its rebirth?

Our Paris in a Day Tour takes you behind the scenes of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

👉 Book a tour of Notre Dame Cathedral

Day Trips

Paris is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable day trips. From royal palaces to seaside cliffs and dreamy gardens, these escapes let you trade city buzz for châteaux, coastline, or countryside—all within a few hours. We’ll highlight our favorites and link to easy ways to visit without the stress.

12. Take a Selfie in the Hall of Mirrors at Château de Versailles

Palace of Versailles | Versailles, France

Tourists inside the Hall of Mirrors at Versailles with their guide from The Tour Guy.

The Palace of Versailles is undoubtedly one of Paris’ most visited attractions for a good reason. While revolutionaries might have ousted the last kings and queens of France, we’re glad they left this magnificent piece of architecture unscathed.

Retrace the footsteps of historical figures like Marie Antoinette and admire the grandeur of the former royal palace. In the Hall of Mirrors, admire your reflection intersected by beautiful chandeliers in over 300 mirrors. Then, head out to the Gardens of Versailles to stroll alongside ornate fountains, flowerbeds, and tree-lined paths before rounding off your visit by gliding across the picturesque Grand Canal in a rowboat.

The palace’s sheer size and grandeur should not be underestimated, neither should the lines to head inside. This is exactly why a small group tour with fast entry is the way to go.

👉 Book Versailles tours

📖 Read about Versailles things to see

📍How to visit the Versailles

13. Hang Out at Monet’s House

Fundación Monet en Giverny | Giverny, France

day trips from paris

Just saw the Water Lilies at the Orangerie and want to know where Monet got his inspiration? Then, you’ve gotta visit his home in Giverny!

Monet lived in Giverny for forty-three years, from 1883 to 1926. He loved gardening and created beautiful flower and water gardens there.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Normandy, easily accessible from Paris, it’s one of the most popular day trips you can take. Just hop on a train from Paris Gare St Lazare, and before you know it, you’ll be stepping into Monet’s world. 

👉 Book a tour to Monet’s house

14. Stand Where History Changed at Normandy’s Beaches

Musée Mémorial d’Omaha Beach | Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, France

The beaches of Normandy and Pointe du Hoc bunker are synonymous with World War II, and visiting them in person puts things into perspective. The beaches are in no way “close” to Paris. Considering their importance, however, many people pilgrimage if they have an extra day in Paris.


Instead of navigating on your own, a private tour with an expert guide ensures you get the full story behind each site, from military strategies to personal stories of bravery. Plus, you’ll enjoy a taste of Normandy’s famous cider along the way.

👉 Book tours to Normandy Beaches

15. Check Off France’s Most Picturesque Island from Your Bucket List

Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey | Mont-Saint-Michel, France

For an exciting day trip outside the city, I highly recommend visiting Mont Saint Michel, France’s most picturesque Island and medieval city! Depending on the tides, it’s either surrounded by water or mud flats, and trust me, it’s a sight you won’t want to miss.

Historically, Mont Saint Michel’s significance grew during the Hundred Years War between England and France, becoming a crucial stronghold and defensive structure. As a military fortress, it played a vital role in fending off British attackers during numerous sieges. 

And guess what? It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage Site! That’s another reason to make sure it’s on your must-visit list. 

👉 Book tours to Mont Saint Michel from Paris

Food & Wine in Paris

You can’t say you’ve been to Paris until you’ve eaten like a Parisian. From slurping oysters on the sidewalk to chasing the perfect pastry or sipping wine in a bar with no menu, this is where the city truly comes alive. Our list is full of edible adventures, and yes—there’s a steak that might just change your life.

16. Eat Oysters on the Street like a Parisian

L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer | 6th arr. Paris, France

Sean P Finelli from The Tour Guy eating oysters at L'avant Comptoir de la mer in Paris Saint Germaine

I  get it—oysters belong in seaside towns, right? Or maybe you’re wondering why I didn’t lead off with the classic escargot. Both are fair thoughts, but when you stumble upon a gem like L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer, the unexpected takes center stage.

This charming hole-in-the-wall, designed by a renowned chef, has a cozy vibe that feels effortlessly welcoming. Look up to see the menu hanging from above, or forget about trying to pick from their 60 to 70 options, and go straight for the oysters. Then, once you’re settled in, start making your way through their small plates.

If you visit often enough, they might even leave the bottle for you to pour your own glasses, enhancing that “old-world romantic French” atmosphere.

17.  Eat ‘Til You Drop in Le Marais

Le Marais Paris Food Tour | Border of 3rd & 10th arr. Paris, France

Paris doesn’t just do food—it reveres it. In Le Marais, that reverence feels intimate. Cobblestone streets spill over with cafés, wine bars, falafel stands, and bistros serving recipes older than the Revolution. This is where Paris eats with feeling.

And if you’re short on time (or stomach space), a food tour is the ultimate cheat code. Let a local guide lead you through oysters, Boeuf Bourguignon, falafel, and flaky, golden crêpes—all without fuss or pretension. It’s like speed-dating Paris’ best flavors.

We redesigned our food tour to start and end here, because honestly? Nowhere else captures the city’s culinary soul quite like Le Marais.

👉 Explore Our Le Marais Food Tour

18. Have Lunch in Place Dauphin

Place Dauphin, Île de la Cité | 1st arr. Paris, France

Sean Finelli in front of Place Dauphin in Paris on Pont Neuf Sept 2024

I love great food, but what I love even more is a relaxing atmosphere, even if the food is just decent. That’s why I adore Place Dauphin, conveniently located just off Pont Neuf—yet somehow overlooked by tourists. During the week, it’s quiet, allowing me to settle into a sunny chair and enjoy a casual lunch. I love watching people play pétanque while sipping on a refreshing Pernod or a cold beer. It’s the perfect blend of laid-back charm and local culture.

Check out La Rose de France for brasserie classics featured on a set menu. The restaurant offers a cozy setting and you can choose to sit on the airy terrace. They also offer vegan options.for anyone looking for meatless dining.


📖 Read about the best restaurants in Paris

19. Eat (or Don’t Eat) Snails at Chartier

Bouillon Chartier Grands Boulevards | 9th arr. Paris, France

Eating escargot in Paris is an adventure that demands courage. Not only will you be eating snails, but you’ll also need to figure out how to coax them out of their shells. It’s all too easy to say, “Maybe next time,” and avoid the challenge.

But when you finally decide to give it a go, head to Bouillon Chartier in Montmartre and start with an order of six snails. It’s the perfect way to dip your toe into this iconic French dish, and who knows—you might just leave as an escargot enthusiast!


👉 Read about the best Parisian foods

20. Get Lost While Dining at Derrière

Restaurant Derriére | 3rd arr. Paris, France

Photo courtesy of Derrière

Derrière is where you go when you want dinner with a side of adventure. Nestled in the Marais, this restaurant feels more like crashing at a friend’s quirky apartment—if your friend has impeccable taste in modern French food.

There’s a king-size bed to dine on (seriously!), foosball to play, and cozy nooks to lose yourself in. Every table is different, as is every room.

I dare you to find the bathroom and the way back to your table without getting lost.

Pro Tip: Be sure to book ahead of time as it’s in high demand!

21. Take Your Night Up a Notch with Drinks at Andy Wahloo

Andy Wahloo | 3rd arr. Paris, France

Photo courtesy of Andy Wahloo

Right next door to Derrière and sharing an owner and a tree-lined courtyard is Andy Wahloo, a quirky little bar that serves upscale cocktails.

Inside, you’ll be greeted with a strange 1970s Moroccan lounge style featuring mismatched furniture and vintage objects.

Given its uniqueness and the quality of drinks you’ll be getting, the prices are quite reasonable, with cocktails between €12 and €16.

Keep in mind it doesn’t open until 7 pm, so it’s best saved for an after-dinner drink—unless you’ve already fully embraced the late-night dinners.

22. Master the Art of Crêpe-Making

Ultimate Crepe Cooking Class | 18th arr. Paris, France

Paris without crêpes? Unthinkable! They’re as iconic as the Eiffel Tower, and while it’s easy to grab one from a street vendor, why not take it up a notch and learn to make them yourself? 

In a class, you’ll master the techniques for achieving the perfect thin, delicate crêpe under the guidance of skilled chefs. The experience often includes using fresh, local ingredients, giving you a taste of authentic French flavors.

Sharing your creations with fellow participants adds to the joy. Plus, you’ll leave with skills and recipes to impress friends back home!


👉 Book a Crêpe Cooking Class in Paris.

Local Experiences in Paris

Paris isn’t just museums and monuments—it’s pétanque in the park, toy boat races, market strolls, and that perfect café moment. These are the slow, everyday pleasures that make you feel less like a visitor and more like a Parisian. Here’s where to find them.

23.  Have a Boat Race in the Luxembourg Gardens

Luxembourg Gardens | 6th arr Paris, France

Top Things to do in Europe Luxembourg Gardens Paris

This one might be designed with kids in mind, but there’s no rule against adults getting in on the fun. For around €5 (as of late 2024), you can rent a nearly 100-year-old toy boat, give it a good push with a long stick, and watch it glide across the pond in the Luxembourg Gardens.

Each boat is adorned with different country flags, pirate sails, or other whimsical designs, making it easy to spot your boat among the fleet.

Whether you’re dashing after your boat or sitting back and enjoying the scene, the simple joy of this activity makes for a perfect Parisian moment. Plus, it’s arguably one of the best value-for-money experiences in Paris!

24. Walk in the Footsteps of ‘Emily in Paris’

Free | One of a Kind | Not for Everyone

Not going to lie, the ‘expert traveler’ in me wanted to avoid mentioning Emily in Paris. With Parisians either loving it or completely dismissing it (which, in my opinion, is an opinion in itself), it’s one of those topics best left untouched.

But here we are. And if you’re a binge-watcher like me, the idea of visiting those filming locations holds undeniable appeal.

Fortunately, you won’t have to go on a wild goose chase to find some of the show’s most iconic spots. Just a short three-minute walk from the Louvre, heading away from the Seine, you’ll find Place de Valois. Spot the Galerie Patrick Fourtin, and voilà – your picture-perfect moment!
Since we’re on the topic, Gabriel’s restaurant is near Place de l’Estrapade (keep an eye out for Terra Nera), and Mindy’s “prettiest street in Paris” is none other than Rue de l’Abreuvoir.

25. Shop, Sip, and Stroll at the Passage des Panoramas

Passage des Panoramas | 2nd arr. Paris, France

Sean P Finelli doing research in the Passage des Panoramas in Paris for guidebook

Since 1799, when this covered arcade first opened, the Passage des Panoramas has seen an endless stream of locals and visitors enjoying its serene yet buzzy atmosphere.

Between boutiques, eateries, specialty shops, and galleries, it’s one of those places you wander in to have a peek and find yourself staying awhile.

While this famous arcade draws plenty of attention, it rarely feels packed. Whether you’re browsing the intriguing shops or simply people-watching, there’s something here for everyone. My advice? Find a quiet spot at one of the charming café tables, sit back, and soak in the rhythm of daily life.

26. Confuse Your Friends Back Home with a Selfie

Statue of Liberty Replica | 6th arr. Paris, France

The Statue of Liberty isn’t really a stranger to Paris. After all, both the Musée d’Orsay and the Musée des Arts et Métiers have a replica. But there’s only one that’s both free to view and pretty much directly in line with the Eiffel Tower.

The statue itself, a quarter-scale replica of the Statue of Liberty, was gifted to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution in 1889.

You’ll find it on the southern end of  Île aux Cygnes, and after you snap a cheeky selfie with it, you’ll have just the ammo to really confuse your friends back home.

27. Rack Up Waves from Paris’ Oldest Bridge

Pont Neuf | 1st arr. Paris, France

seine river cruise

A Seine River cruise is an essential part of any Parisian adventure, and as your boat glides beneath Pont Neuf—the city’s oldest bridge—your guide will likely highlight that it was the first bridge without houses and the site of King Henri IV’s impressive statue. You might also find yourself waving at those on top, looking down at you.


Why not flip the script? You’ll probably cross Pont Neuf a few times—it’s right between Notre Dame and the Louvre—so take a moment to be the waver. Count how many friendly waves you can get from passing boats. It’s surprisingly fun and a great way to connect with the city’s charm.

28. Find the Barrel of Skulls in the Paris Catacombs

Catacombs of Paris | 14th arr. Paris, France

barrel of bones at paris Catacomb

Did you know that underneath the City of Light there are tunnels full of bones? Hundreds of miles of tunnels, actually. The Catacombs of Paris might seem a little spooky or gross, but they are a fascinating part of Parisian history.

One of the best things to do in Paris is to tour the creatively stacked tunnels. Containing the bones of over six million people, the Paris catacombs are officially the world’s largest grave.

Going on a guided Paris Catacombs tour is your best option if you don’t want to risk waiting a long time to get in. Plus, you’ll get to see restricted rooms that you’re not allowed to see without a tour guide. However, if you want to go it alone, the Catacombs also offer audio guides.

👉 Book a Paris Catacombs tour

29.  Be Underwhelmed by Paris’ Narrowest Street

Rue du Chat-qui-Peche | 5th arr. Paris, France

Hold your horses before you dash off to find the narrowest street in Paris – Rue du Chat-qui-Peche won’t overwhelm you with grandeur, but its allure is all about the charm and mystery. Tucked between Quai Saint Michel and Rue de la Huchette, this slender alley on the Left Bank is so easy to miss, you’ll walk right past it if you’re not careful.

The name means “Street of the Fishing Cat,” though no one knows for sure why. Some say it refers to the magical cat of a wizard, while others think it’s just a playful Parisian touch.

Regardless of the story, punch it into your GPS and give it a look. At least you’ll have bragging rights for seeing something in Paris most visitors never even notice.

30. Get an Adrenaline Kick With a Sidecar Motorbike Tour

Pont de Bir-Hakeim | 7th arr. Paris, France

You know that feeling when you’ve been on your feet for hours, and someone zooms past you in a sidecar looking way too cool? Why let them have all the fun?

Hop in a vintage sidecar, throw on your coolest sunglasses, and take Paris by storm. Imagine gliding around the Arc de Triomphe like you own the place or zipping past the Eiffel Tower with the wind in your hair.

This is no ordinary tour—it’s customizable, so you can pick your route and go where the mood takes you. Ditch the envy and ride in style!

👉 Book a Sidecar Experience

31. Walk Through Montmartre to View Paris from Sacre-Cœur

Basilica of Sacré-Cœur | 18th arr. Paris, France

Montmartre feels like a little village that somehow got stuck on top of a hill in Paris. It’s a tangle of narrow streets that makes you forget you’re in one of the world’s most famous cities. Its crown jewel is the Sacre Coeur Basilica, and in my (and countless others) opinion, has the best free view of Paris.

Instead of following the fastest route from the metro station to the basilica, get off at Anvers or Abbesses and wander through the neighborhood. You’ll stumble upon cozy cafés, beautiful murals, and even secret gardens as you make your way up the hill.

Want to dive deeper into its artistic and culinary heart? Consider a guided tour. There’s nothing quite like enjoying wine and macarons while tracing the footsteps of legends like Picasso, van Gogh, and Renoir.
You can also check our free Neighborhood Guide to Montmartre.

Our Best Versailles and Paris Louvre Tours

SGT Louvre Blog Tour Card 388 x 200

Top-Rated Tour

Secrets of the Louvre Museum Tour with Mona Lisa

The Louvre is the largest art museum on Earth and the crowning jewel of Paris, which is why it’s on everyone’s bucket list. Don’t miss out on an incredible opportunity! Join a passionate guide for a tour of the most famous artwork at the Louvre. Skip-the-line admissions included.

See Prices

Likely to Sell Out

Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Versailles isn’t that difficult to get to by train, but why stress over the logistics? Meet a local guide in central Paris who will purchase your train tickets and ensure you get off at the right stop. Then enjoy a guided tour of the palace and the unforgettable gardens. Skip-the-line admissions included to the palace and gardens.

See Prices

32. Dive into the Excitement of July 14th Celebrations!

Bastille Day | Paris, France

Eiffel tower with fireworks, celebration of the New Year in Paris, France

Mark July 14th on your calendars – it’s a big deal for the French! It’s like 4th of July in the United States!

This day commemorates the storming of the Bastille in 1789, a fortress that housed political prisoners and served as the catalyst for the French Revolution.

If you’re in Paris that day, brace yourself for evening fireworks at the Champ-de-Mars, epic events, and bustling crowds.

But wait, there’s more! On July 13th and 14th every year, Parisian fire stations throw open their doors for the legendary Firemen’s Ball. It’s a tradition that started with Sergeant Cournet at the Montmartre fire station in 1937.

Ladies, you definitely don’t want to miss this! Be prepared for some sizzling encounters with French firefighters!

33. Dare to Sniff Around Paris’ Sewers

Paris Museum of Sewers | 7th arr. Paris, France

interior tunnel of paris sewer museum
Photo courtesy of Paris Sewer Museum

Yes, you read that right. If you want to do something really unique in Paris, the Sewer Museum is calling your name.

For an easy €9, you can step into the working underground of Paris’ not-so-extravagant sewer and see firsthand the engineering brilliance of the system.

It’s oddly fascinating and offers a completely different experience than most ‘must-dos in Paris. Especially considering it’s an active sewer, meaning smells and the sightings of rats are entirely possible.

34. Marvel and Shop at Les Passages Couverts

Les Passages Couverts | 2nd arr. Paris, France

Best Shopping in Paris Galerie Vivienne, Paris

Les Passages Couverts are beautiful covered passageways with glass ceilings in the Galerie Vivienne department store. These were some of the first modern department stores, and honestly, things have gone downhill from there.

You can walk through these beautiful works of art and window shop, which almost always leads to real shopping and spending money. For more shopping tips, read our article on the best shopping in Paris.

After all that shopping, you’ll need to rest and refuel, and the perfect little tea house is waiting for you: Le Valentin Vivienne. From coffee and macarons to kouign amann and quiche, they have just the right treats to satisfy. Definitely buy a jar of lavender honey to take home!

How to See Paris in A Day Guide
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35. Find Debussy in the Quaintest Parisian Cemetery

Passy Cemetery | 16th arr. Paris, France

trees and tombs in passy cemetery

Père Lachaise may get most of the foot traffic, but if you prefer your cemeteries a little more laid-back, Passy Cemetery is calling.

This lesser-known gem in the 16th arrondissement is just steps from Trocadéro, with perfect views of the Eiffel Tower as a bonus.

Here, you can honor the great Claude Debussy, find Edouard Manet, and channel your inner fashionista by visiting Hubert de Givenchy’s resting place.

Pro Tip: Take a picture of the map at the entrance to help navigate the cemetery.

36. Stumble Upon Love in a Hundred Languages

Wall of I Love You | 18th arr. Paris, France

people kissing at the wall of love

Ooh la la! You’re in Paris, the most romantic city in the world. What better thing to do than to find the Wall of Love? This heartwarming spot has become a bit of a trendy spot to see in Montmartre. Still, not everyone knows about it, so let me explain.

The words “I love you” are written in perhaps hundreds of languages on this city wall in an effort to remind humanity of the greatest emotional expression of all. Hebrew, English, Spanish, Hindu, German, Swahili, and many others can be found. Snap a pic in front of the wall with your loved one. If you’re lucky, your language could be close enough to be in your picture too!

37. View Montmartre’s Only Vineyard in Paris

Vigne du Clos Montmartre | 18th arr. Paris, France

people at the gate of the vignes du close vineyard in montmartre

Yes, there is a vineyard in the center of Paris. Vignes du Clos is likely the smallest vineyard in the entire world, and it’s right in Montmartre. A rich family or a business does not own a vineyard inside the city of Paris. It is owned by the 18th arrondissement, which is referred to as Montmartre.

Vignes du Clos is basically a park that produces local wine and uses the proceeds for social initiatives. It’s a beautiful way to bring the local Parisian community together around something as sacred as wine.
Sadly, the general public is not allowed to enter the vineyard.

But guess what? You could stop by the beautiful gate and learn fascinating stories about its history and controversies with a local guide on our popular Paris in a day tour!

Find the best places to stay

Where To Stay in Paris

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

Best Places to Stay in Paris

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About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

Reader Interactions

Comment (1)

  1. Tim Neeble

    October 7, 2020

    You really show the city from so many angles i definitely need to make the time to visit sooner rather than later.
    Great post!

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