The best things to do in Paris

Forget that standard top 10 things to do in Paris list; this handy guide of insider tips will have you feeling like a local.

Ah, Paris: the city of love, mouth-watering croissants, and a famous chef called Remy. Whether you’re looking for the classic top things to do in Paris, the best things to do in Paris on a budget, or you’re in search of some uncharted city gems, we’re here to guide you towards an amazing experience in the heart of Europe. 

Trocadéro Gardens

Obviously, no Paris things to do list is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. But you don’t have to go directly to the monument to see it in all its glory. In fact, the nearby Trocadéro Gardens actually offers the most beautiful view of the famous monument. Located directly across the Seine, these elevated gardens provide the perfect vantage for that classic postcard – or, well, Instagram photo. The garden is replete with terraced steps, trimmed lawns, and stunning flowers. You can’t miss it.

Address:
Pl. du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre

Opening Hours:
24/7

For everyone: the Musée du Louvre

Visiting the Louvre – the world’s largest art gallery – is one of the most educational and fun things to do in Paris. Once a 12-century fortress, the museum is now a magnificent palace boasting a collection that spans from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century. It is, of course, home to Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa.” But the Mona Lisa is far from the only incredible work in the Louvre. Guests can gaze up at the “Venus de Milo”,  Eugène Delacroix “Liberty Leading the People”, and Paolo Veronese’s “The Wedding Feast at Cana.” We recommend getting there bright and early to ensure you’re at the front of the line. If you can, avoid weekends and Wednesdays, as the museum is closed Wednesdays. Monday and Thursday are the best days to go.

Address:
75001 Paris, France

Opening Hours:
09:00 to 21:00

For lovers: Musée de la Vie Romantique in Pigalle

Those searching for romantic things to do in Paris need not look further than the small cobblestone garden of Pigalle’s Musée de la Vie Romantique. It’s romantic in two senses: for one, the location—particularly at twilight—is both stunning and intimate; once home to George Sand’s literary readings. In the other sense, its collection exclusively features literature from the Romantic era! Come to the museum at midday and enjoy a café in the garden once the sun begins to set, and you’re in for the perfect date.

Address:
16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris, France

Opening Hours:
10:00 to 18:00

For kids: Jardin du Luxembourg

Home to a lively playground, famous puppet shows at the Théâtre du Luxembourg, and toy sailboat rentals for its classic octagonal pond, the Luxembourg Garden is an excellent option when seeking things to do in Paris with kids. You can easily spend an entire summer day lazing away in the beautiful space while your kids play on the swings or catch a show. The puppet theatre is French language only, but they use ample visual storytelling for international audiences.

Address:
75006 Paris, France

Opening Hours:
07:30 to 21:30 (Summer hours)

Wander through the stalls of book sellers, antiques and quirky boutiques

Want to spend a day like a local? Take a stroll through some of the city’s eclectic courtyards and hideaways. Browsing these forgotten treasures is one of the best free things to do in Paris. And, you never know, perhaps one of the rare books, maps, or vintage postcards will catch your eye. Try the Village Saint-Paul in the Marais for a hidden maze of interconnected plazas with unique architectural charm. If you’re an avid reader, you can’t miss the Sunday Book Market along the Seine. Here, Parisians hunt for decades-old magazines, photographs, and classic literature.

Address:
Village Saint Paul – Rue Saint-paul, 75004 Paris
Sunday Book Market – 104 rue Brancion 75015 Paris

Opening Hours:
Village Saint Paul – 24/7
Sunday Book Market – Sat & Sunday, 09:00 – 18:00

Paris after dark: Île de la Cité

For those after unique things to do in Paris, the Île de la Cité after sunset offers an unforgettable experience. This medieval heart of the city, crowded with tourists during the day, settles into a peaceful lull in the evening. Ancient cobblestones gleam under streetlamps while Gothic silhouettes of Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie rise against the night sky. The astronomical clock on the Conciergerie’s tower – a 14th-century timepiece that once marked hours for French royalty – becomes particularly captivating under the evening lights.

Brooke Mackenzie

Brooke Mackenzie is a lifelong writer who’s braved the planes, trains, and automobiles of every continent but Antartica. She pairs her first-hand travel knowledge with an extensive background in professional copywriting to deliver destination advice that’s accurate, clear, and fun to read.