The 1st arrondissement of Paris is a magnificent neighborhood, where history echoes in every cobbled alleyway. It is here that you will find the Louvre, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the Place du Palais Royal. But the 1st arrondissement hides many other gems to discover! Here are the best things to see and do in this legendary arrondissement of Paris.
Discover the Church of Saint-Eustache, one of the most stunning churches in the 1st arrondissement, in a new light
This Gothic gem nestled in the heart of the 1st arrondissement is one of the most famous places of worship in Paris. Inside , the Renaissance style brings softness to the choir and the pillars of the nave, covered with thousands of details. It took nearly 100 years to complete its construction ! A church to be admired from every angle and in a new light during LUMINISCENCE, an immersive show that highlights (and sounds) this unique architectural gem with digital projections and electro-orchestral music, a little gem of technology at the service of heritage!
📍Location: 2 Impasse Saint-Eustache 75001 Paris
Visit the Louvre, the largest museum in the world
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It is the largest museum in the world and attracts thousands of visitors every year. Recently, the Louvre hosted its first fashion exhibition! Whether it’s to say hello to the Mona Lisa, photograph its amazing pyramids, or simply learn a little more about the history of our world, there’s always a good reason to visit!
📍 Location: 99, rue de Rivoli 75001 Paris
Admire the Sainte-Chapelle cathedral, one of the jewels of the 1st arrondissement
Commissioned by Louis IX, this chapel is breathtakingly beautiful. It has 6,180 square feet of glass windows (no less). The 15 stained-glass windows depict 1,113 scenes from the Bible, from Adam and Eve to the Apocalypse. A real gem that must be seen at least once in Paris.
📍 Location: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
Spend the afternoon at the Bourse de Commerce
This historic building, now one of the leading venues for contemporary art, has undergone several years of restoration. The 1,400 m² of paintings that adorn its dome have been restored by hand to their former glory. It is a magical place, where contemporary art blends perfectly with this historic monument.
📍 Location: 2 Rue de Viarmes, 75001 Paris
Photograph the Buren Columns
1st arrondissement Buren Columns
Designed by French artist Daniel Buren, these black and white striped columns located in the Cour d’Honneur of the Palais Royal are sure to impress. Their different sizes bring dynamism and modernity to this historic site. These columns sculpt the light according to the time of day, making each of your visits a unique experience.
📍 Location: Gallery of the Cour d’Honneur, 2 Rue de Montpensier, 75001 Paris
Stroll around Place Vendôme, the most chic square in the 1st arrondissement
1st arrondissement
📍 Location: Place Vendôme 75001 Paris
Enjoy a pastry at the Ritz Paris le Comptoir
Voted the best pastry shop in the world, the Ritz Paris is a source of national pride. Pastry chef François Perret offers a variety of delicacies to enjoy on site or take away: delicious madeleines, red fruit financiers, sublime biscuits… Each bite is an ode to our childhood.
📍 Location: 38 Rue Cambon, 75001 Paris
Go window shopping at La Samaritaine
1st arrondissement Samaritaine
For a little shopping, we love window shopping at La Samaritaine. First of all, because the Art Nouveau-style shopping mall is absolutely magnificent. Renovated over several years until its reopening in 2021, it’s a real feast for the eyes. Here, you’ll find luxury items and pieces by young designers. Admittedly, it’s not within everyone’s budget, but it’s definitely worth a look!
📍 Location: 9 R. de la Monnaie, 75001 Paris