Paris the City of Lights is home to a number of exciting and romantic tourist attractions. From museums and historic buildings featuring incredible architecture to beautiful natural landscapes, visitors have a wide range of sightseeing options available. In between trips around town, visitors can stop forcoffee and snacks or go shopping at a number of boutiques. Depending on the season, tourists can enjoy the beautiful blooms in the gardens or view the city covered in snow. The top places to visit in Paris offer visitors a taste of the culture, history, and sights of the city.
1. The Eiffel Tower
As perhaps one of the most recognized structures in the world, the Eiffel Tower is one of Paris’ most popular destinations. Aside from offering a panoramic view of the city, it also houses exhibits, shops, and restaurants. Guests can choose to ride to the top on the elevator or make the climb using the stairs. Transparent floors and multiple viewing areas enhance the experience.
2. Arc de Triomphe
Built to honor the Imperial armies, the Arc de Triomphe is an impressive sight. Sculptures and reliefs on the Arc depict Napoleon and his army marching to victory. The French Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is underneath, and the Champs Elysees runs next to the site, featuring famous restaurants and luxury fashion boutiques. Visitors can also climb the stairs to the top of the Arc for views of the boulevard and the landscape below.
3. Palace of Versailles
As the most famous castle in France, the Palace of Versailles is a large collection of buildings, gardens, and terraces. Visitors can tour the Hall of Mirrors, the chapel, and the opera house. A visit to the Queen’s Estate gives guests a peek into the life of Marie-Antoinette. Outside, the gardens are home to several fountains, sculptures, and precisely planted greenery.
4. The Louvre Museum
Featuring a large collection of world-famous art and sculptures, the Louvre Museum is housed in an historic palace on the banks of the Seine River. It includes both rotating and permanent exhibits and a number of guided tours are available. Visitors can also take part in art lectures and as well as attend concerts, plays, and other live performances.
5. Sacre Couer
The Sacre Couer is a basilica located on Montmartre, a large hill in the city. Built in the Byzantine style, the domed cathedral features stained glass windows and a grand mosaic. The basilica hosts regular mass and adorations, including night adorations and participation in Communion.
6. The Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter of Paris is home to Sorbonne University, one of Europe’s oldest. Visitors walking the streets can enjoy the various sculptures and fountains. The area is home to a number of artisan boutiques, restaurants, coffee shops, and bookstores.
7. Seine River Boat Tour
For a complete look at the city, many visitors choose a Seine River boat tour. Tours can last up to two hours and feature stops at some of the city’s most famous locations. Dinner tours allow visitors a view of the sunset and the city at night, with some trips into a few of the smaller canals and waterways.
8. Moulin Rouge
For a night of culture, food, and entertainment, the Moulin Rouge is a popular attraction. The building itself features colorful murals and original posters of famous performers. Guests can take in an afternoon or dinner show in the intimate theater and choose from extensive menus.
9. Musee d’Orsay
Located across the river from the Louvre, the Musee d’Orsay is home to a large collection of impressionist and modern art. Works by artists such as Van Gogh, Degas, and Monet mingle with works by graphic artists and sculptors. In addition, the museum hosts concerts and plays and is home to a bookshop.
10. Notre Dame Cathedral
A stunning example of Gothic architecture, the Notre Dame Cathedral features tall towers, stained glass, and famous gargoyles. Visitors can climb to the top floor for a panoramic view of the area and view the paintings and sculptures inside. It is still a functioning Roman Catholic cathedral, so visitors can attend mass at Notre Dame at various times during the day.
