50+ Traveler-Tested Things to Do in Paris (With Recommendations)
Planning a trip to Paris can be overwhelming with all the guides out there. This list is built on what travelers actually say they loved, found worth it, or regretted skipping. It’s detailed and full of tips for first-timers and return visitors alike.
Sainte-Chapelle
People constantly mention the stained glass as breathtaking. It’s one of the top things travelers say they’re glad they didn’t skip.
Get reserved time tickets in advance to avoid long waits. Some even attend concerts held inside for a unique experience.
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
This area comes up over and over. Not just for the basilica and the views, but for wandering the streets, sitting at cafés, and feeling the atmosphere.
Some suggest visiting in the evening when there’s music and dancing by the Seine. The Museum of Montmartre also gets a mention.
Musée d’Orsay
One of the most frequently recommended places. Many say they prefer it over the Louvre because it’s easier to navigate, less overwhelming, and packed with masterpieces. It’s housed in a former train station and has a good balance of art and space.
Luxembourg Gardens
Great for relaxing, people-watching, or having a picnic. Travelers recommend seeing the Medici fountain and using it as a calm break between sights.
You can pick up picnic food nearby and enjoy it in the shade.
Sunset Seine River Cruise
A popular experience. Le Calife and Bateau Mouche are both mentioned. People say the nighttime atmosphere is amazing, especially if you catch the Eiffel Tower sparkling on the hour.
Notre-Dame
After the fire and reconstruction, it’s still one of the most mentioned spots. Some enter without lines early in the morning. A few suggest joining guided tours outside for the historical stories. Some travelers went inside during special Pope-related services and found it memorable.
Eiffel Tower at Night
Don’t just see it during the day. Many say to walk around it at night and watch it sparkle from a distance. The view from the Arc de Triomphe is a favorite.
Arc de Triomphe
Climbing to the top is recommended for views. Several people say it’s the best place to watch the Eiffel Tower twinkle. It’s often paired with a visit to the Champs-Élysées.
Pantheon
Mentioned by multiple travelers. Some like staying nearby for easy walking access to the Latin Quarter and major sights.
Rodin Museum and Garden
The peaceful gardens come up often. The museum itself is compact and less crowded. Many say it’s one of their favorite stops.
Paris Opera (Palais Garnier)
Recommended both for the performance and the building. People warn to check which venue you’re booking – there’s also Opéra Bastille, which some mistakenly choose.
Seats at the very top are described as hot and cramped, so it’s better to book closer to the stage. During performances, access to the building is limited, so consider a tour if you want to see the interior fully.
Cluny Museum
Noted as the only medieval museum in Paris. The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries get specific praise. People describe it as unexpectedly interesting.
Musée de l’Orangerie
Recommended especially for Monet lovers. The Water Lilies rooms are the main draw.
Marmottan Monet Museum
Several mention this as a must if you enjoy Monet. It’s quieter than other major museums and offers a different experience.
Musée Carnavalet
This free museum covers the history of Paris. Located in the Marais, it’s a lesser-known but worthwhile stop.
Catacombs
People love it but warn that it sells out. Buy tickets at least a week in advance. Those who visit say it’s worth the time.
Père-Lachaise Cemetery
Mentioned for quieter exploration and astonishing graves. Some pair it with nearby sights for a full afternoon.
Centre Pompidou
Note: it’s closing for a five-year renovation starting in September.
Galerie Dior / House of Dior
Very popular, especially among fashion lovers. Book in advance. A few note it as their favorite experience.
Chanel and Palais Galliera are also mentioned for those interested in fashion.
Hot Chocolate at Angelina’s
Recommended at the Rivoli location (226 Rue de Rivoli). The “L’Africain” with chantilly cream comes up multiple times. See best hot chocolate in Paris
Odette Cream Puffs
Located near Notre-Dame. Climb to the top floor for a view with your dessert. More about Odette
Shakespeare & Company
A must for book lovers. Located across from Notre-Dame, part of the Latin Quarter experience. More about Shakespeare
Bir-Hakeim Bridge
Mentioned for great Eiffel Tower photos. More about this bridge
Jardin des Plantes, Parc Monceau, Buttes-aux-Cailles
Named among the lesser-known parks worth visiting. Each offers a different vibe and walking experience. 10 greatest parks in Paris
Shopping at Galeries Lafayette
Gets repeated mentions. Combine it with a stop at the rooftop for views. The greatest department stores in Paris
La Grande Épicerie
Noted for gourmet shopping. More about La Grande Epicerie
Food and Restaurant Tips
Berthillon Ice Cream
Mentioned often, especially at night on Île Saint-Louis. Pistachio and raspberry sorbet are favorites. Look for the red awnings.
Le Soufflé
Near Notre-Dame. Highly recommended for a lunch stop.
La Jacobine
Small, cozy, popular for lunch when they open.
Le Grand Colbert
Suggested for a classic Parisian dinner.
Note: stay away from laminated menus, they are considered a sign of tourist-focused places. Stick to smaller spots or go where locals eat.
Experiences Beyond Sightseeing
Food Tours
Especially in Montmartre. A few mention doing one as their intro to the city.
Citroën Tour
Vintage car tours are recommended for orientation.
Evenings Out
Many travelers talk about walking at night, people-watching at cafés, admiring shop windows, and enjoying the atmosphere. Streets and cafés become livelier after dark.
Unplanned Walks
Some say their best moments were simply wandering without a plan. Paris lends itself to that kind of exploration.
Day Trips and Excursions
Versailles
Mixed reviews. Some enjoy it; others say it’s a one-time experience. Weekly Navigo pass (all zones) covers transit to Versailles.
Normandy
Suggested for those with time. See this post
Mont-Saint-Michel
Included with other long day trip ideas. 13 smart tips
Chartres Cathedral
Mentioned for its architecture.
Strasbourg
Recommended as a bigger excursion if you’re up for it. See A few hours in Strasbourg
Disneyland Paris
Mentioned for families with kids.
Final Tips
Book Tickets in Advance
Especially for Catacombs, Dior Museum, and concerts or opera at Palais Garnier. If you’re seeing a show at Palais Garnier, you won’t get full access to explore the building. Consider doing both a performance and a tour.
Consider Skipping the Louvre
Some travelers admit skipping it due to crowds or time. Many favor the Orsay and other smaller museums.
Go Early or Late
You can often avoid crowds by showing up right when places open or visiting in the evening.