Best of Paris: Top 7 Best Things to Do in Paris, France

paris france

The best things to do in Paris are, quite simply, to eat, walk, and fall in love.

Of course, you may do all these things and more while still seeing some of the most remarkable sights in the whole world.

While it’s next to impossible to confine the best of Paris into a short list, here are a few of the most important experiences you must have while visiting the City of Light.

1. The Louvre

The city of Paris itself is a museum, with breathtaking architecture and monuments to significant events in history on literally every block.

However, you will not be able to forgive yourself if you visit Paris without seeing the world-famous Louvre.

A former royal palace, this monumental museum houses some of the most important pieces of art from the last few centuries.

Winged Victory. The Mona Lisa. Venus de Milo. While you may have to fight your way through the crowds, you should not pass up the priceless chance to see these masterpieces in real life instead of on a postcard.

You’ll never be able to cover even a small fraction of this overwhelming collection in even a few days. Content yourself with the promise to return one day.

And spare yourself some time to explore the museum’s neighborhood, including the fancy Rue Rivioli with its elegant patisseries and cafes.

2. Champs Elysee

The Champs Elysee is the city’s main boulevard, which culminates in the magnificent Arc de Triomphe.

This monument was commissioned by Napoleon to recall France’s military triumphs. A generation later saw the Nazis march towards it along the Champs when they seized the city.

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You can ascend this historic building and see all of Paris stretched out before you. Laid out in radiating grids, the city is a master class in urban planning that was subsequently copied in cities like Washington D.C.

The Champs Elysee used to be home to many famous fashion houses but is now filled with lots of touristy souvenir stands and even a McDonald’s. However, you can still find plenty of Parisian chic here: the headquarters for Louis Vuitton, perfumeries, and beautiful bakeries.

Walk down this avenue towards Place de la Concorde, where Marie Antoinette and many others faced the guillotine during the revolution.

Despite its illustrious history, you will understand why this is still considered the most beautiful street in the world.

3. Eiffel Tower

A wonder of modern architecture and the worldwide symbol of France, this structure is iconic to behold.

If you go up in one of its elevators, you will be treated to views of the entire city and beyond, with the river Seine winding its way through it all.

Another spectacular way to see the Eiffel Tower is by taking a boat tour on the Seine.

You can take these during the day, or night if you want to see some of Paris’ most famous sights lit up to exquisite effect. You can also feast on fabulous foods on various river excursions, which are a lovely way to experience Paris.

4. Ile St. Louis

Everyone must try the ice cream on the Ile St. Louis at least once in their lives.

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Berthillon is supposed to be the best, but there are several places to grab a cone on this historic tiny island in the middle of the Seine.

In the summer, you will see throngs of crowds laying out in the sun along the river banks. All year long you will see artists plying their crafts and painting views of the cathedral and other ancient buildings in this special area. Many performers entertain the crowds along the bridges leading to the island.

Take a walk along the cobbled streets to see a genuine neighborhood relatively unchanged since the 1600s. However, these pricey mansions now have all the modern conveniences, and probably cost in the millions today!

5.  Centre Pompidou

Lest you think Paris is merely a tribute to the medieval and renaissance past, this museum shows you France’s important contributions to modern art.

The building itself is a stunning example of modern architecture, with complex outdoor tubing that leads you up the side of the building.

You can see a wide range of influential modern art here, from Dali and Warhol to Duchamp. The art spills out the doors of the museum to the neighborhood surrounding it, with such striking public displays as the whimsical Stravinsky fountain by Nikki de St. Phalle.

6. Notre Dame

Sadly, you cannot tour this iconic symbol of France since the terrible fire that took place here last year.

However, a walk around the remainder of this amazing cathedral is necessary to understand the importance of its history and the scope of its recent devastation.

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You can still see the famous gargoyles, stained glass windows, and the flying buttresses, immortalized by Victor Hugo.

This massive church is a miracle of man’s imagination, which has withstood revolutions and hardships. We can only hope that it can be eventually restored to its former glory.

7. Père Lachaise

If you are interested in more Gothic sights than just cathedrals, check out this famous cemetery in the city’s 20th arrondissement.

Celebrities and artists across the centuries are buried here, from Edith Piaf to Oscar Wilde to Moliere, Proust, and Chopin.

Often you will find fans of the late rock singer Jim Morrison assembled on his grave, leaving empty wine bottles in memory of his lost battle with alcohol.

If you want to see other monuments, the Catacombs are an even more grisly and ancient reminder of past generations: underground ossuaries built entirely of human bones!

The Best of Paris: Where to Begin?

The best of Paris could take a lifetime to unearth, from its amazing food to its historic neighborhoods, and vibrant art scene.

Not to mention its fashion, wine, music, and literature.

Just walking down any street in this city is a history lesson, a gourmet meal, and a cultural adventure all in one!

Make sure you check out museums and famous sights, but also take time to drink in all the beauty of this city which has inspired so many armies, artists, and lovers.

Keep checking back for more travel tips on your dream destinations.