When it’s your first time in Paris, and you start searching for things to do, you’ll be amazed by the abundance of sights. There’s plenty here to keep travelers busy, whether you’re visiting for a week or a month, from iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower to world-class galleries such as the Louvre.
If you’re in the middle of planning your trip to the French capital and are not sure where to start, this list of the best things to do in Paris will point you in the right direction.
Get Your Photo Taken at the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the face of Paris and an absolute highlight of every visitor’s trip. Standing 330 meters tall, it’s a rite of passage to come here and have your photo taken, with some of the best viewpoints found on Rue de l’Université and the Promenade Marie de Roumanie. Those who would prefer to go up the tower can purchase tickets to access different levels, including the top, or even enjoy a meal while taking in views of the Paris skyline.
Spend Some Time at the Louvre
One of the top 10 things to do in Paris is to spend some time at the Louvre. Known as the largest art museum in the world, it houses some of the world’s most treasured masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa by the renowned artist Leonardo da Vinci. Visitors can also admire iconic sculptures such as the Venus de Milo by Alexandros of Antioch.
To save yourself some money, plan your visit for the first Friday of each month, when admission is free for everyone after 18:00, excluding July and August.
Check out the Arc de Triomphe
After the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe is arguably Paris’s most recognisable landmark. It stands as a symbol of remembrance for those who fought in the Napoleonic Wars and the French Revolution, while also drawing attention for its impressive neoclassical design.
Many people assume the Arc de Triomphe can only be admired from afar, but visitors can also go up to the top if they buy a ticket. That said, it’s just as impressive from ground level if you don’t want to spend the money. Who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of it while traveling from Paris Airport to the city center.
Tour the Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Paris. Having reopened in 2024 after the devastating fire that forced it to close in 2019, this magnificent cathedral is sure to impress first-time visitors with its mesmerizing French Gothic architecture. As a place of worship, it’s open to the public free of charge, though it’s recommended to reserve a time slot in advance, as wait times on the day can be quite long.
Take a River Cruise on the Seine
When you get tired from walking between the sights, a river cruise is a great way to rest without missing out on sightseeing. These cruises typically last around an hour and allow you to see some places on our list of the 10 best things to do in Paris, with attractions such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral regularly featuring on tours.
There are also nighttime cruises that run after dark, offering a magical evening with dining, drinks, and stunning views of the Eiffel Tower lit up at night.
Take a walk along the Champs-Élysées
A walk along the iconic Champs-Élysées is non-negotiable when visiting Paris. This famed avenue is a hugely popular shopping destination, with big-name boutiques, cafes, and restaurants lining the nearly two-kilometer stretch. It also stands out for its striking buildings, many of which are designed in the Beaux-Arts style. Be strategic with your timing when coming here, as the Arc de Triomphe is at the top of the Champs-Élysées, allowing you to see both at once.
Explore Montmartre
If you’re into cool neighborhoods, Montmartre will be your kind of place. This quirky district in the 18th arrondissement is tucked away on a small hill and brimming with character. Think cobblestoned streets, stylish eateries, and lush greenery spilling over residential buildings. It’s the type of area that sends photographers into overdrive.
A fun way to explore Montmartre is by tourist train, which moves slowly through the streets and takes you past the main sights, giving you a real feel for the area.
Have a Read at Shakespeare and Company
Shakespeare and Company is up there with the world’s greatest bookstores, as it was once the meeting place for some of the best writers ever to put pen to paper, like Hemingway. Today, it serves as an English-language bookstore, where you can pick up all sorts of written material to enjoy on your travels. One thing to mention is that visitors aren’t allowed to take photos inside, so you’ll have to refrain from snapping any shots.
Swing by the Basilique du Sacré-CœUr
You can’t help but be in awe of the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur. Located in Montmartre, this basilica is a work of brilliance, with detailed mosaics, fabulous chapels, and a dome that visitors can climb for spectacular views of Paris. While most people will be able to reach the top without hassle, it can take quite a while to get there, especially if there are crowds cramming the staircase, so keep this in mind if you’re not physically fit.
Book in to See Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge is Paris’s most famous cabaret show, held on Boulevard de Clichy. It’s a true spectacle, with dancers and singers delivering an unforgettable performance in elaborate feathered costumes, set to upbeat music and featuring exciting dances like the French cancan. Visitors can choose from several packages, including dinner with the show or show-only tickets, but be sure to do your research, as special events can affect pricing.
Frequently asked questions
What not to miss while in Paris? 
Paris has endless things to do, but there are some you can’t afford to miss while you’re here, like the Eiffel Tower, as it’s the city’s most famous landmark, as well as the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa in person.
What must I try in Paris?
French cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its exceptional quality, with dishes like crispy baguettes, flaky croissants, sweet macarons, garlicky escargot, and rich boeuf bourguignon standing out as must-tries when in Paris.
What is the number one attraction in Paris?
The number one attraction on our list of top things to do in Paris is the Eiffel Tower for its striking design and towering height, which once made it the largest structure in the world.
What are the top things to do in Paris for first-time visitors?
The top things to do in Paris for first-time visitors include admiring the Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral and soaking up the artistic atmosphere of Montmartre. You also have to walk along the Champs-Élysées to experience one of the city’s most iconic shopping streets if you’ve never been here before.
What should I not miss when visiting Paris for the first time?
The Louvre Museum is something you shouldn’t miss on your first visit to Paris, as it’s home to the Mona Lisa and is the largest museum in the world.
Can I visit the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre on the same day?
Of course, visiting both the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre on the same day is possible, but you’ll need to time it right. It’s best to visit the Louvre first, as it takes longer due to the amount there is to see. Afterwards, you can take the bus to the Eiffel Tower and spend as much time as you like in the area, taking photos and heading up to the top.
What are the best museums to visit in Paris?
Paris has some of the world’s best museums, such as the Louvre, where you’ll find iconic masterpieces including the Mona Lisa, and the Centre Pompidou, celebrated for its modern and contemporary art. The Musée d’Orsay is another must-visit, renowned for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections.
