Top Things to do in Paris

Long associated with romance and the setting for many famous films, France’s capital, the ‘City of Lights’ is a truly iconic destination. With its cobbled streets, monument-lined boulevards and sleek Parisians, it’s a city that can feel a world away from London, despite being a little over a 60-minute flight away. As well as it’s beguiling atmosphere, the city has plenty to keep you occupied, with wine bars, world-renowned restaurants, boutique shops and lively al fresco cafes. Plus, there's a whole list of famous attractions that you simply can't miss. Browse our top things to do in Paris below:

Eiffel Tower

One of the city’s most famous features, this 324-metre-tall structure constructed by Gustave Eiffel adorns many Paris images and postcards. By far the most popular attraction to visit during a city break in France, the tower boasts a choice of bars and restaurants, including the upmarket 58 Tour Eiffel, Le Jules Verne, plus a macaron bar and at the very top of the tower, a Champagne bar. The views from the top of the Eiffel tower are far-reaching across Paris, and all of the city’s major sites can be seen. Transparent lifts ascend to the tower’s three floors offering views along the way. Alternatively, energetic visitors can opt to walk as high as the second floor (720 steps).

Arc de Triomphe

Another hugely recognisable symbol of Paris, the Arc de Triomphe was originally imagined by Napoleon in 1806, to celebrate the French army’s victory at Austerlitz. However, the monument was not created until long after his death, in 1836 by French king, Louis-Philippe, who dedicated it to the armies of the Revolution and the Empire. Sitting in the centre of the unbelievably busy Etoile roundabout, the monument which is the largest arch in the world, attracts around 1.5 million visitors every year. 

Louvre Museum

The world’s largest art museum and a central landmark in Paris, the Louvre Museum dates back to the late 18th century and is the home of world-famous pieces including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. There's a vast selection with everything from Mesopotamian, Egyptian and Greek antiques to artistic masterpieces by da Vinci, Michelangelo and Rembrandt. In fact, the museum showcases around 35,000 objects, and therefore visiting on a guided tour is a good way to ensure you see the most iconic pieces.

Champs Élysées

Famous for its theatres, luxury boutiques and cafes, Champs Élysées in Paris is one of the world's most recognisable avenues. Spanning almost 2km, the popular avenue runs from Place de la Concorde in the east of the city, to the Arc de Triomphe in the west. Dating back to the late 17th century, the glamorous avenue is a popular destination for tourists, keen to take the leisurely 60-minute walk from one end to the other.

Sacré-Cœur

Also called the 'Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris', Sacré-Cœur is a beautiful Roman Catholic church that sits on top of Butte Montmartre, the highest point in Paris. The building can be reached by stairs or funicular and at the top a scenic park surrounds the church. Inside, 300 spiral stairs lead to the basilica's dome which offers sweeping views of Paris - up to 30km away on a clear day.

Moulin Rouge

A famous feature in Toulouse Lautrec's posters and renowned for its red windmill and colourful cabaret shows, a visit to the legendary Moulin Rouge includes elegant cocktails, fantastical costumes and the famous cancan dance. An evening attraction, the Moulin Rouge is often a popular extra with visitors on a tour of Paris, and last-minute tickets are often available. 

Musée d'Orsay

This stunning museum which was once a railroad station, now houses a fantastic collection of Impressionist art, dating from 1848 until 1914. Located on the Left Bank of the River Seine, the museum has a wide range of sculptures, furniture, and photography, plus the largest set of impressionist masterpieces in the world. Inside you'll find paintings by Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, Gauguin and Van Gogh and along with the Louvre, this museum is a must for art lovers.