Here are 45 must-do things to experience at least once in your life in Paris

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Whether you’re a Parisian by birth or by heart, there’s bound to be a place in Paris you’ve never seen. Here’s our to-do list of things to see and do at least once in your life in the capital. Have tea at the Grand Mosque, stroll along the quays, visit a museum… There’s no shortage of ideas for things to do. Follow the guide—you’ve got your work cut out for you!

Experience Montmartre in a Different Way

Montmartre, one of the 50 things to see in Paris

Montmartre is certainly one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris. Its hilly streets, the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and its unique view of Paris have always made it a favorite spot for artists. To soak up the magic of this place in a unique way, why not take a guided tour? We’ve got one that’s definitely worth checking out! To progress through the story told by the guide, you’ll need to solve puzzles and riddles. Sounds fun, doesn’t it?

📍Location: 59 Boulevard de Clichy, 75009

Be dazzled by the Sainte-Chapelle

The Sainte-Chapelle, one of the 50 must-see sights in Paris

The Sainte-Chapelle is certainly one of the most beautiful royal chapels in France. Its stained-glass windows, whose colors change with the light, depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments. A jewel of French heritage that’s definitely worth a visit! Get ready to be dazzled!

📍Location: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001

Visit the Conciergerie

The Conciergerie

Abandoned by the kings of France toward the end of the 14th century, the Conciergerie became a prison and then a revolutionary tribunal. A true theater of the French Revolution, it housed both dissidents and sovereigns… such as Queen Marie Antoinette. A piece of French history you must discover!

📍Location: 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris

Lose yourself in the Père-Lachaise Cemetery

père lachaise

Père-Lachaise Cemetery is probably one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. Nestled in a surprisingly bucolic setting when you first enter, the cemetery is home to a whole host of curiosities. You’ll see unusual graves, some with a fantastical look, and even discover where certain famous figures are buried. Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Molière, Frédéric Chopin… If you’re lucky, you might even spot a little fox! The cemetery is home to many wild animals.

📍Location: 8 Boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020

Take a trip to Disneyland Paris to see Mickey and his friends

Enjoy a delicious pastry at the Ritz counter

@Ritz Paris Le Comptoir

Attend a concert lit by hundreds of candles

© Paris Secret Candlelight, one of the 60 things to do in Paris

For an evening full of magic, we highly recommend attending a Candlelight concert. What’s the idea? Enjoy a classical music concert surrounded by over a hundred candles. Discover iconic pieces, classics from the repertoire like Vivaldi or Mozart, as well as songs by much more contemporary artists such as Bad Bunny, Adele, Coldplay, and JJ Goldman…You’ll be spoiled for choice.

📍Location: variousvenues

Visit the Palace of Versailles, home of the Sun King

Versailles – One of the 50 most beautiful things to do in Paris

Okay, so we’re not in Paris, but you can’t miss this! Versailles is the most extravagant royal palace in France. For 400 years now , this palace has fascinated and amazed visitors. Home to the Sun King, this magnificent, history-rich site has welcomed the greatest figures of all time. Come admire the Hall of Mirrors, the Grand Water Show, the Trianon estate, and the meticulously maintained gardens.

📍Location: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles

🚆Transport: Take the RER C line and get off at Versailles Rives Gauche / Chantiers.

Admire the Medici Fountain in the Luxembourg Gardens

Medici Fountain @shutterstock

The Medici Fountain is one of the most beautiful fountains in Paris. And for good reason: it was commissioned by Queen Marie de Medici herself! If it remains significant today, it’s because it’s the only surviving example of this type of structure commissioned by the queen. Restored after the Revolution, it has retained all its former splendor and beauty.

📍Location: Rue de Médicis, 75006 Paris

Go see a ballet at the Paris Opera

Opéra Garnier, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

The Palais Garnier is a national treasure not to be missed. Ranked among the three most beautiful theaters in the world, the Palais Garnier has always been the center of Parisian cultural life. King Louis XIV and his favorite composer, Lully, once graced its stage, just as the biggest names in the arts do today.

📍Location: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris

Enjoy the Seine on a riverboat

Paris riverboat

Riverboats are THE quintessential Parisian cliché. For an hour or an entire evening, you ’ll cruise along the Seine and discover Paris from a new perspective. A unique cruise to enjoy with your family, friends, or your crush.

📍Location: Paris

See the Pyramids of the Louvre

The Louvre, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

As much loved as they were hated when they were unveiled in 1989, the Louvre pyramids are the third most visited feature of the site after the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. The five pyramids, including the inverted one, have brought light into the museum, but also, and above all, expanded it. A must-see in Paris, which even Queen B has seen up close.

If you want to take in the view, head to the TOO Tac tac Skybar. Why this rooftop and not another? Simply because it’s the highest rooftop in Paris. 120 meters high! Perfect for watching the capital’s most beautiful sunsets!

📍Location: 65 rue Bruneseau, 75013 Paris

Head up to the top floor of the Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

You didn’t really think we’d forget it, did you? If there’s one thing you absolutely must see, it’s the Iron Lady! A symbol of Paris, but also of France, the Eiffel Tower is truly fascinating. Its elegance remains intact 133 years later. If you don’t have (too much of a) fear of heights, the top floor offers a breathtaking view. Simply magical!

📍Location: 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris

Cheer on the musical The Lion King

OSCAR GONZALEZ – NurPhoto – NurPhoto via AFP

This musical has been around for 18 years. Since its premiere on Broadway, The Lion King has enchanted audiences of all ages with its colorful sets and costumes. If you haven’t seen it yet, now is the time!

📍Location: 25 Rue de Mogador, 75009 Paris

Visit the “I Love You” Wall

History of the “I Love You” Wall in Paris

A little poetry in this world! And what better way to express love in 250 different languages than at the “I Love You” Wall? The “I Love You” Wall features over 300 ways to say “I love you” in multiple languages. And we could all use a little of that!

📍Location: Square Jean Rictus, Place des Abbesses, 75018 Paris

Take a stroll across the Pont des Arts

Pont des Arts renovation

The Pont des Arts has had a little makeover! This favorite spot for lovers—who once symbolically sealed their love by attaching a padlock to its railings—has been completely renovated. No more padlocks for safety reasons, but a new, highly durable deck and a stunning view of the Seine.

📍Location: Pont des Arts, 75006 Paris

Admire the Centre Pompidou

Visit the Musée Grévin

Photos: Musée Grévin & Joel Saget / AFP

To see lifelike wax statues of your favorite celebrities, this is the place to be. The Musée Grévin will take you on a journey through time, allowing you to explore France from centuries past to the present day. A unique, off-the-beaten-path activity for all ages, exclusive to Paris!

📍Location: Musée Grévin, 75009 Paris

Stop by the Galerie Vivienne

Photos: Sonnet Sylvain, Hemis.fr & Tripelon Jarry, Only France via AFP, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

One of the most beautiful covered arcades to see in Paris is undoubtedly the Galerie Vivienne. Listed as a historic monument since 1974, this shopping arcade in the Pompeian neoclassical style has lost none of its splendor. A charming and romantic spot where people love to stroll.

📍Location: 6 Rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris

Take a trip to the Moulin Rouge cabaret to see a real French cancan

Moulin Rouge, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

You can’t visit Paris without experiencing a real cabaret at least once. And what could be more iconic than the Moulin Rouge? Its magical shows and costumes adorned with feathers and sequins have been thrilling all of Paris for over 100 years. Head there for dinner with friends and to cheer on the performers!

📍Location: 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris

Savor Angelina’s iconic hot chocolate

Angelina, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

For us, Angelina serves some of the best hot chocolate in Paris. This rich, indulgent treat is perfect to enjoy on-site or to go—and above all: without moderation!

📍Location: 226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris

Book brunch at Le Loir dans la Théière

Pâtisseries Le Loir dans la Théière

For a cozy and delightful tea time, we highly recommend this spot. You can enjoy the delicious homemade pastries that have made its reputation, and choose your tea from a lovely selection! So yes, we’ll admit it—this little tea room is often packed. But trust us, the wait is worth it!!

📍Location: 3 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris

Enjoy the beauty of Place des Vosges

Instagrammable Spots in Paris: Place des Vosges

Place des Vosges is certainly one of the most beautiful squares in Paris. This regal square is surrounded by mansions, such as Victor Hugo’s house nearby, and has enchanted Parisians since 1612. It was also one of the first places dedicated to strolling! If you’re looking for a bucolic break in a historic setting, this is the place to go!

📍Location: Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris

FINALLY Visit Notre-Dame

Stephane FRANCES / ONLY FRANCE / Only France via AFP

A jewel of Gothic architecture, Notre-Dame remains a must-see in Paris. Built on the Île de la Cité, it was damaged by a fire in 2019 and underwent a massive restoration project. It reopened in December 2024 following structural reinforcement and repairs to the vault and Viollet-le-Duc’s spire, and the restoration is particularly successful. It’s definitely worth a visit!

📍Location: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris

Sip a cup of coffee at Café de Flore

Café de Flore, Photo: Gardel Bertrand, AFP, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

It’s the quintessential Parisian literary café. A bit of a cliché, but so charming, Café de Flore has welcomed the greatest minds. The couple Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre made it their headquarters; Guillaume Apollinaire had set up his office on the ground floor… In short, Café de Flore is a favorite spot for creatives and artists. Head there to enjoy a good cup of coffee or a comforting hot chocolate in its inspiring setting.

📍Location: 172 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris

Buy a book from the book vendors on the Paris quays

Parisian bookstalls, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

We’re continuing with the clichés, this time by suggesting a stroll along the quays of Paris. You’ve surely spotted a string of open-air shops along the banks of the Seine? That’s where we’re taking you. Since the 16th arrondissement, these Parisian booksellers have been offering a selection of books to all the city’s passersby. Today, you can find your literary gem—as well as engravings, stamps, and more— along a stretch of over 3 km.

📍Location: Paris

Indulge in an ice cream at Berthillon

Berthillon ice cream © SIPA

Let’s take a well-deserved break to taste one of the best artisanal ice creams in Paris. Since 1954, people have been flocking here to taste these delicious ice creams, whose recipe has remained unchanged since the shop opened.

📍Location: 31 Rue Saint Louis en l’Île, 75004 Paris.

Feast your eyes at the Galerie Dior

The Dior Gallery © Kristen Pelou

Immerse yourself in the world of fashion and luxury of this iconic brand! The Galerie Dior is a unique and fascinating museum where you’ll discover the entire history of Christian Dior across 2,000 square meters. Visit to admire archival pieces, original sketches, and spectacularly displayed designs.

📍Location: 11 Rue François 1er, 75008 Paris

Rent a boat at La Villette, then catch an open-air movie

FREE Outdoor Movie at La Villette 2021

La Villette is one of Paris’s green lungs. Head there to rent a boat (no license required) and cruise down the Ourcq Canal with family or friends. In the summer, we love strolling there to catch an open-air movie on the lounge chairs. The lineup changes every year and is designed for all ages!

📍Location: Bassin de la Villette, 75019 Paris

Get a thrill with an immersive escape game

The Live Thriller, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

If you’re looking for a unique and fun group activity, we recommend trying an immersive escape game at least once. The Live Thriller is a thrilling criminal investigation where you’ll step into the shoes of an investigator. Join Inspector Nils and his team and try to unravel the mysteries of this case.

📍Location: Rue de Trétaigne, Paris, France, 75018

Head to Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and stop by the Pavillon du Lac

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Because it is one of the most beautiful parks in Paris, the Buttes-Chaumont is well worth a visit. From there, you can stop at the Pavillon du Lac to recharge your chakras and admire the exceptional view.

📍Location: 1-7 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris

Try the giant croissant at Philippe Conticini

@philippeconticini

This XXL croissant is sure to surprise you! A light and airy croissant to share at brunch or for an afternoon snack! Available only by order, you won’t regret it (and trust us, it’ll make quite an impression on any occasion). A must-try!

📍Location: 42 Rue de l’Annonciation, 75016 Paris

Go shopping at the Marché des Enfants Rouges

Marché des Enfants Rouges Paris, one of the 50 things to do in Paris

It’s the oldest food market in Paris! The Marché des Enfants Rouges has been a lively hub since 1615, where people love to fill their baskets with quality products. You can also sit down at a table on the terrace or grab a delicious sandwich on the go.

📍Location: 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris

Pet the animals at the Ferme de Gally – Saint-Cyr-l’Ecole

@shutterstock farm

If you’re craving some nature, head over to the Ferme de Gally. This educational farm offers a refreshing stroll where you’ll discover farm animals, meadows, a lake, and the Gally woods. The farm regularly hosts workshops for children ages 5 to 12: bread-making, apple juice-making, and more. A relaxing return to nature!

📍Location: CD 7, Route de Bailly, 78210 Saint-Cyr-l’École

Have a good laugh at Chez Prince Comedy Club

A historic club already a staple of the nightlife scene and a true temple of comedy in the making,ChezPrince—located in the 6th arrondissement, right in the heart of the Latin Quarter—now welcomes the best talents of today’s and tomorrow’s stand-up scene in a wonderfully friendly atmosphere. This fusion gives rise to a unique venue that combines the vibrant energy of Parisian nightlife with the uninhibited atmosphere of next-generation stand-up comedy for an explosive mix.

📍Location: 10 Rue des Saints-Pères, 75007

Have a drink at a speakeasy at Moonshiner

@Moonshiner

If you’ve never been to a speakeasy, you should at least check out the Moonshiner. Push open the doors to the walk-in fridge at the Italian restaurant Da Vito, and step into the 1930s atmosphere of this one-of-a-kind hidden bar. People go there for its cozy ambiance and to enjoy delicious cocktails.

📍Location: 5 Rue Sedaine, 75011 Paris

Sample the fine cuisine of a Michelin-starred restaurant

Photos: La Tour d’Argent & Illustrative image, Shutterstock

It would be a shame not to try a Michelin-starred restaurant nestled in the City of Light! Some Michelin-starred restaurants are actually quite accessible. It’s hard to name them all, but if we had to pick just one, it might be La Tour d’Argent. For 400 years, this elegant restaurant has been delighting food lovers from around the world. Here, you’ll savor French cuisine of rare finesse! Its breathtaking view of Notre-Dame de Paris will be etched in your memory forever.

📍 Location: 19 quai de la Tournelle, 75005 Paris

🍽️ Price: 360 euros for a 5-course meal

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Dream away in the garden of the Petit Palais

The Petit Palais, a museum dedicated to the fine arts in Paris, is one of the gems built for the 1900 World’s Fair. While its larger counterpart, the Grand Palais, offers visitors a much larger space, the Petit Palais is every bit as impressive. The inner garden, perfect for relaxation and contemplation, is an ideal spot to unwind after an exhibition.

📍Location: Avenue Winston-Churchill, 75008 Paris

Enjoy the BNF Richelieu Library

Arthur Weidmann – CC 2.0

A feast for the eyes: that’s what immediately comes to mind upon entering these halls, where a studious atmosphere reigns. After 12 years of renovations, the Richelieu branch of the Bibliothèque nationale de France is a sight to behold, with its 1,200 m² of floor space! A playground for lovers of books, culture, and history. While the place may seem intimidating, know that the Oval Room is free and open to everyone, with no age restrictions.

📍Location: 58 , rue de Richelieu, 75002 Paris

Go window-shopping at La Samaritaine

samaritaine

Freshly renovated and reopened to the public in 2021, La Samaritaine is an Art Deco gem. We love going there to admire every corner of its architecture, grab a coffee on the top floor, and of course, do some shopping (if you have the budget, of course). A simply magical place.

📍Location: 9 rue de la Monnaie, 75001

Take a dip in the iconic Molitor pool

@molitorparis

A summer haven for Parisians for nearly 60 years, the Molitor pool is clearly a legendary spot in Paris. Opened in 1969, the Molitor (which is also a hotel) has always been a place where it was fashionable to be seen. It’s still a pleasure to visit for a dip or to relax on its rooftop during the warmer months! It’s certainly one of the most beautiful hotels with a pool in Paris.

📍Location: 4 Rue Nungesser et Coli, 75016 Paris

Have tea at the Grand Mosque

For a timeless break, enjoy a cup of mint tea in the gardens of the Grand Mosque, a major place of worship for Muslims and a stunning spot to visit in Paris. Not only because the location is truly magnificent, but especially because the tea and traditional pastries are excellent. A truly exotic and unique spot in Paris!

📍Location: 2bis Pl. du Puits de l’Ermite, 75005 Paris

Reserve your table at the oldest restaurant in Paris

oldest restaurant in Paris

Who would have thought such a treasure existed in Paris?Over 400 years old, La Tour d’Argent is one of the most legendary restaurants—and also the oldest—in the capital. After 15 long months of renovations, it reopened in 2023 to the delight of food lovers. A magical place offering a breathtaking view of Notre-Dame de Paris.

📍 Location: 15 quai de la Tournelle, 75005 Paris

🗓️ Reservations: required

💶 Price: 390 euros for a five-course dinner – 165 euros for a four-course lunch