Whether you’re a Parisian by birth or by heart, there’s bound to be a place you’ve never seen in Paris. Here’s our to-do list of things to see and do at least once in your life in the City of Light. Take tea at the Grand Mosque, stroll along the quays, visit a museum… there’s no shortage of things to do!
1 – Visit the catacombs
The catacombs of Paris are one of the capital’s unmissable sights! This ossuary, the largest on the planet, is a veritable underground labyrinth. A unique hidden world, stretching over 300 km, where the remains of Parisians have lain from floor to ceiling since 1777.
📍1 avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris
2 – Another way to visit Montmartre
Montmartre is certainly one of Paris’s most charming districts. Its hilly streets, Sacré Coeur basilica and unique view of Paris have always made it a favorite spot for artists. To soak up the magic of this place in an original way, why not take part in a guided tour? Here’s one that’s well worth the detour! To progress through the story told by the guide, you’ll have to solve puzzles and riddles. How’s that for fun?
📍59 boulevard de Clichy, 75009
3 – Feast your eyes on the Sainte Chapelle
The Sainte-Chapelle is certainly one of France’s most beautiful royal chapels. Its stained glass windows, whose color changes with the light, depict 1113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments. A jewel in the crown of French heritage, well worth the detour! Prepare to be amazed!
📍10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001
4 – Visit the Conciergerie
Abandoned by the kings of France towards the end of the 14ᵉ centuries, the Conciergerie became a prison and then a revolutionary court. A veritable theater of the French Revolution, it housed protesters and sovereigns alike… like Queen Marie-Antoinette. A piece of French history you’ll want to discover!
📍2 boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
5 – Get lost in the Père-Lachaise cemetery
The Père-Lachaise cemetery is probably one of the most famous in the world. Nestled in a surprisingly bucolic setting when you first enter it, the cemetery is home to a whole host of curiosities. You’ll be able to see some unusual, sometimes fantastic-looking tombs, and even find out where some of the world’s most famous figures are buried. Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Molière, Frédérique Chopin… If you’re lucky, you may even come across a little fox! The cemetery is home to many wild animals.
📍8 boulevard de Ménilmontant, 75020
6 – Take a trip to Disneyland Paris to see Mickey and friends
Are you a fan of the Disney universe? You simply can’t miss Disneyland Paris. Come and see Mickey, Minnie and all their friends in this magical park! You’ll find thrill-seeking attractions like Hyperspace Mountain mission 2 and the unmissable Mine Train. If you prefer more chill activities, Alice’s Labyrinth or the Haunted House might be more to your liking.
📍Bd de Parc, 77700 Coupvray
🚆RER A direction Marne-la-Vallée Chessy
7 – Eat a delicious pastry at the Ritz counter
For a well-deserved gourmet break, we recommend you try the pastries at Le Comptoir du Ritz. Refined sweet treats lovingly crafted by pastry chef François Perret. We love his filled madeleines, signature marble cake and red fruit tart. A moment of pure bliss!
📍38 Rue Cambon, 75001 Paris
8 – Attend a concert lit by hundreds of candles
For a magical, musical evening, we strongly recommend you try candlelights. The idea? Attend a classical music concert surrounded by over a hundred candles. Discover iconic pieces, classical favorites and more contemporary songs, and make the most of every moment.
📍2 Cours des Maréchaux, 75012 Paris, 75012
9 -Visit the Palace of Versailles, home of the Sun King
Okay, so we’re not in Paris, but it’s impossible not to go! Versailles is France’s most extravagant royal palace. It ‘s been 400 years since the château first fascinated and amazed visitors. Home to the Sun King, this grandiose place steeped in history has seen some of the greatest names in the world pass through its doors. Come and admire the Hall of Mirrors,the Grandes Eaux show, the Trianon estate and the meticulously tended gardens.
📍Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles
🚆RER C then get off at Versailles Rives Gauche / Chantiers.
10 – Admire the Médicis fountain in the Jardin du Luxembourg
The Fontaine Médicis is one of the most beautiful fountains in Paris. And with good reason: it was commissioned by Queen Marie de Médicis in person, please! If it’s still important today, it’s because it’s the only vestige of this type of construction commissioned by the queen. Restored after the French Revolution, it has retained all its original splendor and beauty.
📍Rue de Médicis, 75006 Paris
11 – See a ballet at the Opéra de 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, walked its stage, as do the biggest names on the artistic scene today.
📍Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris
12 – Take a bateau-mouche on the Seine
The bateau-mouche is THE must-see Parisian cliché. For 1 hour or an evening, you’ ll cruise along the Seine and discover Paris from a whole new angle. An unusual cruise to take with your family, friends or crush.
13 – See the Louvre pyramids
As much adored as hated at their inaugurations in 1989, the Louvre pyramids are the 3ᵉ most visited works there after the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. The five pyramids, including the inverted one, brought light to the museum, but also, and above all, enlarged it. A must-see in Paris, that even Queen B can see up close.
📍Quai François Mitterrand, 75001 Paris
14 – Greet the Mona Lisa
This little lady called Mona Lisa, with her shy smile, has seen many admirers! Her story is just as incredible as her reputation, and centuries later she’s still the subject of much interest and theorizing. And Leonardo da Vinci ‘s painting attracts crowds at the Louvre! Millions of people from the four corners of the globe flock to the Louvre every year, perhaps to try their hand at unlocking its secrets.
📍Quai François Mitterrand, 75001 Paris
15 – Go to the capital’s highest rooftop
If you want to take in the sights, we suggest you go to TOO Tac Skybar. Why this rooftop and not another? Simply because it’s the highest rooftop in Paris. 120 meters high! Enough to enjoy some of the capital’s finest sunsets!
📍65 rue Bruneseau, 75013 Paris
16 – Climb to the top floor of the Eiffel Tower
You don’t think we’d forget it, do you? If there’s one thing you’ve got to see, it’s the Iron Lady! A symbol not only of Paris, but also of France, the Eiffel Tower fascinates. Its elegance is still intact 133 years on. If you’re not (too) afraid of heights, we recommend climbing to the top floor to admire the view. Simply magical!
📍5 avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris
17 – Go to the Montparnasse Tower observatory to see Paris
Another great view, but not just any view. A 360° view of the whole of Paris! For that, we suggest you visit the Montparnasse Tower Observatory. Perched over 200 metres high, the view of the whole of Paris is breathtaking. From up there, you can see the Pantheon, the Sacré-Coeur and, of course, our beloved Eiffel Tower! It’s certainly one of the city’s finest views.
📍33 avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris
18 – Applaud the musical The Lion King
This musical has been around for 18 years. Since its Broadway premiere, The Lion King has enchanted audiences of all ages with its colorful sets and costumes. If you haven’t already, now’s the time!
📍 25, rue de Mogador, 75009 Paris
19 – See the “je t’aime” wall
A little poetry in this world! And what better way to conjugate love in 250 different languages than on the “Je t’aime” wall? The “Je t’aime” wall brings together over 300 ways of expressing love in different languages. And we need it!
📍Square Jean Rictus, Place des Abbesses, 75018 Paris
20 – See the brand-new pont des arts
The Pont des Arts has been given a makeover! The favorite spot for lovers, who once came to symbolically seal their love with a padlock hanging from its gates, has been completely refurbished. No more padlocks for safety’s sake, but a new, highly resistant floor, and a sublime view over the Seine.
📍Pont des Arts, 75006 Paris
21 – See the Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou will close its doors in 2025… for 5 years[/trackLink]! So before it closes for renovation, be sure to visit one of the most daring Modern Arts museums of the 20ᵉ centuries.
📍Place Georges Pompidou, 75004 Paris
22 – Making your own beer
For an original and unusual activity, we invite you to become a brewmaster for a day. Take part in a beer-brewing workshop with your bestie, select your recipe and create your bespoke brew. You’ll then be able to enjoy your beer two weeks later!
📍La Beer Fabrique, 75011 Paris
23 – Visit the Musée Grévin
To see lifelike wax statues of your favorite celebrities, this is the place. The Musée Grévin takes you on a journey through time, exploring France from past centuries to the present day. An unusual activity for all ages, unique in Paris!
📍Musée Grévin, 75009 Paris
24 – Pass through the Galerie Vivienne
One of the most beautiful covered galleries to see in Paris is certainly the Galerie Vivienne. Listed as a historical monument since 1974, this neoclassical Pompeian-style shopping arcade has lost none of its splendor. A charming and romantic place to stroll.
📍6 rue Vivienne, 75002 Paris
25 – Go to MAD for culture
Paris is the capital of fashion! If you love fine furniture and haute couture, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs is simply the place for you. Here you’ll discover over a million pieces from archives and collections rarely shown in public.
📍107, rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
26 – Take a trip to the Moulin Rouge cabaret to see a real French cancan
It’s impossible to visit Paris without visiting a real cabaret at least once. And who could be more iconic than the Moulin Rouge? Its magical shows and feathered, sequined costumes have been thrilling the whole of Paris for over 100 years. We go there to dine with friends and applaud the artists!
📍82 boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris
27 – Hot chocolate at Angelina
For us, Angelina is one of the best hot chocolate places in Paris. This rich, gourmet chocolate can be enjoyed on the premises or to take away, and above all: without moderation!
📍226 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
28 – Brunch at Le Loir dans la théière
For a successful and cosy tea time, we highly recommend this address. You’ll taste the delicious home-made pastries for which it’s famous, and you’ll be able to choose your tea from a pretty selection! Granted, this little tea room is often crowded. But believe us, the wait is worth it!
📍3 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris
29 – See the Place des Vosges
Place des Vosges is certainly one of the most beautiful squares in Paris. Surrounded by private mansions, such as Victor Hugo’s house nearby, this royal square has enchanted Parisians since 1612. In fact, it was one of the first places dedicated to promenades! If you’re looking for a bucolic break in a historic setting, this is the place to go!
📍Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris
30 – Say hello to Notre-Dame
A jewel of Gothic architecture, Notre-Dame, now undergoing restoration, remains a Paris landmark. Built on the Île de la Cité, the cathedral has been closed to visitors for the past four and a half years. However, you can still admire it from the outside, and learn a little more about the Pharaonic worksite that has been underway for the past few years, thanks to the panels that surround the site.
📍6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
31 – Enjoy a cup of coffee at Café de Flore
This is the quintessential Parisian literary café. A bit of a cliché, but so charming, the Café de Flore has played host to some of the world’s greatest names. Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre made it their HQ, Guillaume Apollinaire had his offices on the first floor… In short, the Café de Flore is the place to be for creative people and artists. Go there to enjoy a good coffee or a comforting hot chocolate, in its inspiring setting.
📍172 Bd Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris
32 – Buy a book from the bouquinistes on the quays of Paris
We’re continuing with the clichés, this time taking you on a stroll along the quays of Paris. You’re bound to have spotted a bevy of open-air boutiques on the quays of the Seine? That’s where we’re taking you. Since the XVIᵉ, these Parisian bouquinistes have been offering a selection of books to all the city’s onlookers. Today, it’s over 3 km where you can find your literary nugget, but also engravings, stamps and so on.
33 – Devour an ice cream at Berthillon
Let’s make a well-deserved stop to taste one of the best artisanal ice creams in Paris. Since 1954, people have been flocking here to taste these tasty ice creams, whose recipe has remained unchanged since the establishment opened.
📍31 Rue Saint Louis en l’Île, 75004 Paris.
34 – Feast your eyes on the Galerie Dior
Come and immerse yourself in the world of fashion and luxury from the iconic brand! The Galerie Dior is a unique and fascinating 2,000 m² museum where you can discover the entire history of Christian Dior. Come and admire archive pieces, original sketches and spectacularly staged models.
📍11 Rue François 1er, 75008 Paris
35 – Rent a boat at La Villette and enjoy an open-air cinema
La Villette is one of the green lungs of Paris. We go there to rent a boat without a license, and cross the Canal de l’Ourcq with family or friends. In summer, we love to stroll along and enjoy an open-air cinema on deckchairs. The program changes every year, and is designed for all ages!
📍Bassin de la Villette, 75019 Paris
36 – An immersive escape game
If you’re looking for an original and fun activity for a group, we recommend you try an immersive escape game at least once. The Live Thriller is a breathtaking criminal investigation, where you’ll step into the shoes of an investigator. Join Inspector Nils and his team as they attempt to unravel the mysteries of this case.
📍Rue de Trétaigne, Paris, France, 75018
37 – Create an original games bar: Le Player One
This quintessential geek spot is a paradise for lovers of retro-gaming and board games. It’s a bit like being at home here! You can choose one of 60 games from the game library, sip a cocktail or read a manga.Certainly one of the most unusual bars in Paris!
📍224 Rue Saint-Denis, 75002 Paris
38 – Tour the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, stopping off at the Pavillon du Lac
As one of the most beautiful parks in Paris, the Buttes-Chaumont is well worth a visit. From here, you can stop off at the Pavillon du Lac to recharge your chakras and admire the exceptional view.
📍1-7 rue botzaris, 75019 Paris
39 – Eat a croissant at Chez Meunier
Voted best croissant in Paris in 2023, Chez Meunier bakery offers you fresh organic bread, amazing viennoiseries and creative pastries every day. Needless to say, everything is homemade!
📍185 rue de Crimée, 75 019 Paris
40 – Marché des Enfants Rouges
The oldest food market in Paris! Since 1615, the Marché des Enfants Rouges has been a lively place where you can fill your basket with good produce. It’s also a great place to sit out on the terrace or enjoy delicious sandwiches on the go.
📍39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris
41 – Drink and Paint with friends
Fancy an original and creative evening out? To beat the monotony, we recommend Drink and Paint evenings. The aim is simple: you come alone or with your gang of mates to the painting workshop while sipping good wine. You don’t have to be a Picasso to take part! The idea is to reproduce a work of art to your heart’s content, and have fun doing it. Paints, brushes, canvas… All materials are available. Conviviality guaranteed!
📍49 Rue Albert Thomas, 75010 Paris
42 – Visit Ferme de Gally – Saint-Cyr-l’Ecole
If you’re craving nature, take a trip to Gally Farm. This educational farm offers an invigorating stroll through its farm animals, meadow, lake and Gally woods. The farm also offers regular workshops for children aged 5 to 12, including bread-making and apple juice production. A relaxing return to our roots!
📍 CD 7, Route de Bailly, 78210 Saint-Cyr-l’École, France
43 – Laugh heartily at Don K
Don k is more than a comedy club: it’s a must for anyone who likes to laugh and make others laugh. From Paul Mirabel to Sugar Sammy to Amelle Chahbi… They’ve all been at Don K! Here, 4 comedians perform every night to entertain you and make you laugh. The line-up changes often, so you’re always in for a surprise!
📍10 Rue des Saints-Pères, 75007
44 – A real speakeasy at Moonshiner
If you’ve never tried a speakeasy, you must at least visit Moonshiner. Push open the doors of Da Vito Italian Restaurant’s cold room, and immerse yourself in the 1930s world of this hidden bar like no other. We go there for its cosy setting, and to enjoy tasty cocktails.
📍5 Rue Sedaine, 75011 Paris
45 – Taste the fine cuisine of Virtus, a Michelin-starred restaurant
In the “best Michelin-starred restaurant” category, we find Virtus. This gourmet restaurant offers balanced, refined dishes that will awaken all your senses. Red tuna marinated in yuzu and bonito vinegar, carpaccio of button mushroom and summer truffle with melting artichokes… If you want to treat yourself to a weekday lunch, you can discover the 3-act menu for 50 euros. A budget indeed, but justified by the high quality of the products and service.
📍29 rue de Cotte, 75 012 Paris
46 – Visit the Petit Palais and relax in its garden
The Petit Palais, a museum dedicated to the fine arts in Paris, was one of the jewels erected for the 1900 exhibition. While its big brother, the Grand Palais, offers visitors a much larger surface area, the Petit Palais has nothing to envy. The interior garden, ideal for relaxation and contemplation, is the perfect place to unwind after an exhibition.
📍Avenue Winston-Churchill, 75008 Paris
47 – See the BNF Richelieu library
A sight for sore eyes: that’s what you immediately think of when you enter the studious atmosphere of the library. After 12 years of renovation, the Richelieu site of the Bibliothèque nationale de France is a sight to behold, with its 1,200 m³ of floor space! A playground for lovers of books, culture and history. If the place can be intimidating, you should know that the Salle Ovale is free and open to all, with no age restrictions.
📍58, rue de Richelieu, 75002 Paris
48 – Visit the Samaritaine
Freshly renovated and reopening to the public in 2021, the Samaritaine is an Art Deco treasure trove. We love going there to admire every nook and cranny of its architecture, have a coffee on the top floor and, of course, do some shopping (if you’ve got the budget of course). A simply magical place.
📍9 rue de la Monnaie, 75001
49 – A splash in the Molitor swimming pool
A summertime haven for Parisians for almost 60 years, the Molitor pool is clearly a Parisian landmark. Opened in 1969, the Molitor (which is also a hotel) has always been a place where it was fashionable to be seen. We still go there with the same pleasure to take a dip, or to perch at the top of its rooftop in the summer months! It’s certainly one of the most beautiful hotels with swimming pool in Paris.
📍4 Rue Nungesser et Coli, 75016 Paris
50 – Tea in the Grand Mosque
For a timeless break, we recommend a mint tea in the gardens of the Grand Mosquée, a place of worship for Muslims and a sublime place to see in Paris. Firstly, because the place is truly sublime, and above all because the tea and traditional pastries are excellent. A very exotic and unusual place in Paris!
51 – Go on a horror escape game for a good thrill
When it comes to unusual outings, we suggest you try a horror escape game. It’s a great way to get a thrill out of being with friends, and to strengthen bonds while having fun! Our favorite? The Paris slaughterhouse, where you’ll be pursued by a serial killer…
📍 23 rue servan, 75011 Paris
🎮 2 to 5 players
☠️ Difficulty all levels
52 – Buy flowers from the oldest florist in Paris
Giving flowers is a bit like saying I love you, isn’t it? Whether it’s Valentine’s Day or St. Inglin’s Day, flowers are always a good idea. As far as florists are concerned, we love L’Arroisoir, the oldest in Paris. For over 100 years, it has been embellishing the homes of Parisians with its fresh, seasonal flowers. The store is sublime, and can even be privatized for events! A unique place to discover!
🌷80 Rue Oberkampf, 75011 Paris
53 – Get lost in the Paris Aquarium
Did you know that Paris is home to the world’s oldest aquarium? The Aquarium de Paris was founded in 1867, and boasts some amazing species for the whole family to discover. A unique space in the heart of the city to see at least once in your life!
📍5 Av. Albert de Mun, 75016 Paris
54 – Take your time in a coffee shop
Do you like coffee? Well, Paris is full of great places to unwind for a cup (or two). Our favorite address? Coeur épicerie. A very cosy coffee shop, where you can enjoy a Colombian coffee to die for.
📍18 Rue du Général Guilhem, 75011 Paris
55 – Treat yourself to a delicious tea time in an exceptional setting
How about a comforting tea time? Whether at the Hôtel de Crillon, The Peninsula or the Lutetia, there’s a tea time just for you. A delicious moment, away from it all, to enjoy with loved ones.
56 – Visit the Bourse de Commerce at least once
If you want to see contemporary art, head for the Bourse de Commerce! You’ll discover new and astonishing works all year round. And don’t forget to take advantage of the nocturnes every month to see the latest exhibitions for free!
📍2 Rue de Viarmes, 75001 Paris
57 – Street art in Paris
You don’t have to go to London or New York to admire street art. Graffiti, tag, collage, stencils, frescoes, stickers… discover the best spots in Paris to see street art.
58 – Admire Parisian trompe-l’oeil
Trompe-l’oeil are frescoes, often very imposing, painted on the side of a building. We don’t always pay attention to them, yet they poetically decorate our streets. How can you fail to fall in love with Paris while admiring these frescoes? Set off on your next excursion in search of Paris’s finest trompe-l’oeil.
Stroll through the sublime Auteuil greenhouses
Located on the outskirts of Paris, the Auteuil greenhouses are absolutely sublime. The 1900s-style glass roofs house a variety of tropical plants. They’re sure to take your breath away!
The Pont Alexandre III, one of the most beautiful in Paris
This is certainly one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris. Built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, this sublime bridge is well worth a visit any time of year!