VISITING PARIS
Visiting Paris: What to See, Do, and Savor in the City of Light
Paris isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. A city of elegance and creativity, where every corner hides a piece of history or a perfect café au lait. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for the hundredth, Paris has a way of making your heart race with its charm.
Here’s a travel guide that takes you beyond just ticking boxes and into the experiences that make Paris unforgettable.
Must-See Landmarks
1. Eiffel Tower
You can’t come to Paris and miss this iron icon. Whether you admire it from the Trocadéro gardens, picnic under it in Champ de Mars, or ride up for the panoramic view—make sure it’s on your list.
💡 Local tip: Visit at sunset and watch it sparkle every hour on the hour after dark.
2. Louvre Museum (pictured below)
Home to the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and thousands of other masterpieces. Even the glass pyramid entrance is worth the photo op.
🎟 Pro tip: Book your tickets online and go early to beat the crowds.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Still recovering from the 2019 fire, but its Gothic exterior, nearby river views, and surrounding Latin Quarter streets are well worth the stop.
More Than Just Museums
- Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a former train station, it’s home to Impressionist and post-Impressionist legends like Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas.
- Centre Pompidou: Modern art lovers, this quirky architectural gem is your playground.
- Rodin Museum: Smaller, peaceful, and filled with sculpture—perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Attention Tennis Fans!
The French Open Tennis tournament at Roland Garros takes place between 18 May and 7 June 2026, a stroke of luck if you like Rugby League and Tennis!
If you would like to add some grand slam tennis action to your trip, you can buy tickets and hospitality at https://tickets.rolandgarros.com/en/
Best Neighbourhoods to Explore
Le Marais
Trendy, historic, and full of life. Great for boutique shopping, falafel on Rue des Rosiers, and people-watching at Place des Vosges.
Montmartre
Artists, cobbled streets, and the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Climb the hill, catch the view, and soak in the bohemian vibes.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
A literary and intellectual haven filled with jazz bars, art galleries, and iconic cafés like Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots.
What to Eat (and Where)
You’re in the land of butter, bread, and Bordeaux. Don’t hold back.
- Croissants: Head to Du Pain et des Idées or La Maison d’Isabelle
- Cheese & wine: Try a tasting at Le Comptoir du Relais or pick up goods for a picnic
- Snails & duck confit: Classic bistros like Chez Georges or Bouillon Pigalle
- Pastries: Treat yourself at Pierre Hermé, Angelina, or Stohrer
💡 Picnic idea: Grab a baguette, cheese, fruit, and wine—then head to the Seine or Luxembourg Gardens for the perfect DIY Parisian meal.
Shopping & Markets
- Galeries Lafayette: High-end fashion under a stunning glass dome
- Rue Cler: Open-air market street with fresh produce, flowers, and food stalls
- Saint-Ouen Flea Market: One of the world’s largest antique markets
Unique Experiences
- Seine River Cruise: Magical at night, with monuments beautifully lit up
- Moulin Rouge or Crazy Horse: Iconic cabaret experiences full of glitz and glam
- Bike ride in Bois de Vincennes or along the Canal Saint-Martin
- Sunrise at Trocadéro: Little crowd, big views of the Eiffel Tower
Where to Stay
- Luxury: Hôtel Lutetia, Le Meurice, or Shangri-La Paris
- Chic Boutique: Hôtel Henriette, Hotel Recamier, or Maison Souquet
- Budget-friendly: Generator Paris (hostel), Hôtel de la Porte Dorée
Getting Around
- The Metro is fast, affordable, and covers the entire city
- Walking is often the best way to explore, especially in central Paris
- Consider a Navigo Easy pass or Paris Visite card for unlimited metro rides
Final Tips
- Language: A few French phrases go a long way—start with Bonjour, Merci, and Parlez-vous anglais?
- Timing: Spring (April–June) and early fall (September–October) are ideal
- Safety: Paris is generally safe, but watch for pickpockets, especially in touristy areas
In the End…
Paris is less about seeing everything and more about soaking it in. Watch the world go by from a café, stroll without a plan, and let the city guide you. Whether you fall in love with the art, the fashion, the food, or just the feeling of walking down a quiet Parisian street at dusk—this city will stay with you.
