Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most visited destinations in the world. With its beautiful architecture, rich culture, and delicious food, there’s no shortage of things to see and do in Paris. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Paris and provide some tips to help you make the most of your trip.
1. Visit the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, the tower stands at 324 meters tall and offers breathtaking views of the city. It is also the icon of France. Be sure to visit at night when the tower is lit up and sparkles every hour on the hour for five minutes.
2. Stroll along the Seine River
The Seine River runs through the heart of Paris and is a beautiful place for a stroll. You can take a boat tour or simply walk along the riverbanks and enjoy the sights. The river is lined with cafes, book stalls, and musicians, making it a great place to people watch and soak up the Parisian atmosphere.
3. Explore the Louvre Museum
The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums, home to over 35,000 works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Be sure to plan ahead and book your tickets in advance to avoid the long lines. The museum is massive, so give yourself plenty of time to explore.
4. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris. The cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is a beautiful example of French Gothic architecture. While the cathedral suffered a devastating fire in 2019, it’s still possible to visit and see the restoration work underway.
5. Take in the View from Sacré-Cœur
Sacré-Cœur is a basilica located on the highest point in Paris, offering stunning views of the city. You can climb the steps to the top of the dome for an even better view. The basilica itself is also worth exploring, with its beautiful mosaics and stained-glass windows.
6. Visit the Palace of Versailles
Located just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a stunning example of French Baroque architecture. The palace was the home of French kings and queens for over a century and is filled with art, furniture, and lavish decorations. The gardens are also worth exploring, with fountains, sculptures, and beautiful landscaping.
7. Eat Your Way Through Paris
Paris is known for its incredible food, from croissants and baguettes to macarons and crepes. Be sure to try some of the classic French dishes like escargots, coq au vin, and bouillabaisse. And of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without sampling some of the city’s famous wines and cheeses.
8. Shop in the Marais District
The Marais is a trendy neighborhood in Paris filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to shop for designer clothing, artisanal goods, and vintage finds. Be sure to check out the Place des Vosges, a beautiful square surrounded by elegant townhouses.
9. Walk Through the Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens are a beautiful oasis in the heart of Paris. The gardens are filled with fountains, statues, and flower beds, making them a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. There’s also a playground, puppet theater, and carousel for kids.
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