Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world—and for good reason. Iconic landmarks, charming streets, world-class museums, and lively cafes all come together in a city that’s surprisingly walkable if you plan your days well.
This guide focuses on must-see attractions and practical tips to help first-time visitors make the most of a few days in the French capital.
1. See the Eiffel Tower (But Plan It Smartly)
For many travelers, the Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris. You can admire it from the ground or go up for city views.
Tips:
- Book tickets in advance if you want to go up, especially in high season.
- Consider visiting early morning or later in the evening to avoid the biggest crowds.
- For great views of the tower, head to Trocadéro or along the Seine nearby.
2. Explore the Historic Heart: Île de la Cité and Notre‑Dame Area
The area around Île de la Cité is the historic center of Paris.
- See Notre‑Dame Cathedral from the outside and check the latest status on restoration work.
- Stroll across the bridges and wander the narrow streets around the island.
- Visit Sainte‑Chapelle (if open) to see its famous stained‑glass windows.
3. Walk the Seine and Its Bridges
The Seine River runs through the heart of Paris, and walking along its banks is one of the best ways to feel the city’s atmosphere.
Consider:
- A daytime stroll along the riverbanks.
- An evening boat cruise to see the city’s landmarks illuminated.
- Stopping at classic bridges like Pont Neuf or Pont Alexandre III.
4. Visit the Louvre (or Choose a Museum That Fits Your Interests)
The Louvre is massive—it’s home to thousands of artworks, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Tips for the Louvre:
- Buy tickets in advance and choose a time slot.
- Decide which sections you’re most interested in instead of trying to see everything.
- Consider guided tours or audio guides for context.
Other popular museums include the Musée d’Orsay (impressionist art) and Centre Pompidou (modern and contemporary art).
5. Discover Montmartre and the Sacré‑Cœur Basilica
Montmartre is a hilltop neighborhood with artistic history, cobbled streets, and city views.
- Climb (or take the funicular) up to Sacré‑Cœur for a panoramic view over Paris.
- Wander around Place du Tertre, where artists display their work.
- Explore quieter side streets for a sense of old Paris charm.
6. Stroll the Champs‑Élysées and See the Arc de Triomphe
The Champs‑Élysées is one of the most famous avenues in the world, leading up to the Arc de Triomphe.
- Walk part of the avenue to get a feel for its wide sidewalks and major stores.
- Visit the Arc de Triomphe and, if you like, climb up for another viewpoint.
- Time your visit around sunset for beautiful views of the city lights.
7. Experience Classic Parisian Neighborhoods
Some of the best parts of Paris are the neighborhoods themselves:
- Le Marais: Trendy area with boutiques, galleries, and historic streets.
- Saint‑Germain‑des‑Prés: Classic Left Bank district with literary cafes and bookstores.
- Latin Quarter: Lively student area with narrow streets, eateries, and nearby Luxembourg Gardens.
Spending a few hours just walking, people‑watching at cafes, and exploring side streets is essential Paris.
8. Relax in Parks and Gardens
Paris has beautiful green spaces ideal for taking a break from sightseeing:
- Luxembourg Gardens: Classic French garden with fountains, chairs, and tree‑lined paths.
- Tuileries Garden: Between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde.
- Parc des Buttes‑Chaumont: Less central but very scenic, with hills and views.
9. Food, Cafes, and Markets
Food is a big part of the Paris experience. Some ideas:
- Try local bakeries for croissants, baguettes, and pastries.
- Visit a street market (for example, Marché d’Aligre or others) if your timing allows.
- Enjoy a café terrace—order a coffee or drink and watch the city go by.
- Look for bistros and brasseries for classic French dishes; check reviews to match your budget.
10. Day Trip Possibilities
If you have extra time, popular day trips from Paris include:
- Versailles: Famous palace and gardens (book ahead and plan for crowds).
- Giverny: Monet’s house and gardens (seasonal).
- Reims or Champagne region: For cathedral visits and vineyard tours.
Practical Tips for Visiting Paris
Getting Around
- The metro is fast and usually the easiest way to move around the city.
- Walking is often the best way to explore neighborhoods—plan days by area to minimize backtracking.
- Consider transit passes or carnets (bundles of tickets) if you’ll use public transport frequently.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Mild weather and blooming gardens.
- Autumn (September–October): Comfortable temperatures and often fewer crowds than peak summer.
- Summer: Longer days but more tourists and higher prices.
- Winter: Colder and darker, but festive lights and indoor activities can still make it special.
Tickets and Reservations
- Book major attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre in advance to avoid long lines.
- Consider time‑slot tickets or skip‑the‑line options if your schedule is tight.
- Make restaurant reservations for popular spots, especially on weekends.
Money and Safety
- Cards are widely accepted, but carrying a bit of cash is useful for smaller purchases.
- Like any big city, be aware of pickpockets around crowded tourist areas and on public transport.
- Keep important documents and valuables secure and avoid leaving bags unattended.
Tip: Plan each day around 2–3 main sights in the same part of the city, and leave time in between for unplanned stops at cafes, bakeries, and viewpoints. Paris is as much about the small moments as the big landmarks.
When you’re ready to organize your trip, you can use BookingBe to compare flights into Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Orly (ORY) and find the itinerary that best fits your dates and budget.