10 Must-Visit Places in Paris, France

Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. With its rich history, architecture, museums, art galleries and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder why so many people flock to the City of Light every year. There’s so much to see and do in Paris, it can be overwhelming trying to plan your trip to France. To help you out, here is a list of 10 must-visit places in Paris.

1. Eiffel Tower

The iconic Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Standing at 324 meters tall, it is the tallest structure in Paris and offers stunning views of the city. Visitors can take the stairs or elevator to the top, dine at the restaurant, or simply admire the tower from the ground.

2. Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic cathedral located on the Île de la Cité in Paris. This stunning building dates back to the 12th century and is one of the most visited sites in the city. Visitors can explore the interior of the cathedral, climb to the top of the towers for spectacular views, or attend a service.

3. Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum is one of the most famous museums in the world. It houses an impressive collection of artwork from across the centuries, including masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent and temporary collections, and take part in special activities and tours.

4. Champs-Élysées

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in the world. It is located in the 8th arrondissement of Paris and is lined with luxury stores, cafés, restaurants, and more. The street is also home to the iconic Arc de Triomphe, which was built to honour those who fought for France during the Napoleonic Wars.

5. Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a former royal residence located in the town of Versailles, just outside of Paris. This stunning palace was built by Louis XIV in the 17th century and is considered to be one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Visitors can explore the palace’s gardens, fountains, and grand halls, as well as attend concerts, exhibitions, and performances.

6. Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is an iconic monument located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées in Paris. It was built to honor those who fought for France during the Napoleonic Wars and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Visitors can climb the arc for spectacular views of the city, or take part in the military parade held annually on July 14.

7. Montmartre

Montmartre is a charming hilltop neighborhood located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. It is home to the iconic Sacré-Coeur Basilica, as well as the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret. Visitors can explore the cobbled streets of the neighborhood, wander through the local markets, and enjoy the views of the city from the top of the hill.

8. Centre Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou is an art museum located in the 4th arrondissement of Paris. This modern building houses a wide range of artworks from the 20th and 21st centuries, as well as a library, cinema, and music hall. Visitors can explore the museum’s collections, take part in special activities, and enjoy the views from the rooftop terrace.

9. Jardin du Luxembourg

The Jardin du Luxembourg is a stunning garden located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. It was created in 1612 by Marie de’ Medici and features beautiful lawns, flower beds, ponds, and more. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens, play a game of chess or pétanque, or attend one of the many events held in the park.

10. Musée d’Orsay

The Musée d’Orsay is an art museum located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris. It houses a large collection of artwork from the 19th and early 20th centuries, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. Visitors can explore the museum’s permanent and temporary collections, take part in guided tours, and relax in the café.

5 Places to Avoid in Paris, France

1. Gare du Nord

Gare du Nord is the main train station in Paris and is located in the 10th arrondissement of the city. Although it is an important transport hub, the area around the station can be dangerous at night, so it’s best to avoid it after dark.

2. La Défense

La Défense is a business district located in the western suburbs of Paris. It is home to many corporate headquarters and is a popular tourist destination, but it can be quite dangerous at night, so it’s best to avoid the area after dark.

3. Place de la République

Place de la République is a square located in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. It is a popular tourist destination and is home to some interesting monuments, but the area around the square can be dangerous at night, so it’s best to avoid it after dark.

4. Barbès-Rochechouart

Barbès-Rochechouart is a neighborhood located in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, but the area can be dangerous, so it’s best to avoid it at night.

5. Bois de Boulogne

The Bois de Boulogne is a large park located on the western edge of Paris. It is a popular destination for tourists, but the area can be dangerous at night, so it’s best to avoid it after dark.