Places to visit in Paris: Unlock the timeless charms
Discovering Paris is like stepping into a living masterpiece where every street corner whispers tales of history, art, and romance. Paris has its way of romancing with its tourists. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the cobblestone lanes of Montmartre, the romantic Boulevard, iconic museums and monuments and the art cafes are a few of the reasons why people fall in love with Paris every time be it their first visit or the hundredth.
From the Eiffel Tower standing tall against the Parisian sky to the Louvre Museum which houses centuries of artistic masterpieces, visitors in Paris are fascinated by its unparalleled beauty and cultural significance.
Join us as we commence on a journey to discover the city of light and hunt through the timeless charm and endless possibilities where dreams are made and memories are created. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and be prepared to lose yourself in the magic of Paris where every street corner holds a new adventure and every moment is your chance to create memories that will last a lifetime through a Europe tour package!
Here are some Top places to visit in Paris:
- Eiffel Tower
- Notre Dame cathedral
- Louvre museum
- Champs Elysees/ Arc of Triumph
- Cruise on the Seine
- Montmartre
- Palace of Versailles
- Latin quarters -Luxembourg Park
- Moulin rouge
- Disneyland Paris
- Palais Garnier
- Aquaboulevard Paris
- Place de la Concorde
- Sainte Chapelle
- Le Manoir de Paris
1. Eiffel Tower
What would be Paris without its symbolic Eiffel Tower? Built by Gustavo the Eiffel to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution, it was presented at the Exposition Universelle in Paris in 1889. 324 m high, it is one of the most visited monuments in the world with nearly 7,000,000 visitors a year and places to visit in Paris.
The first floor houses the Eiffel Tower 58 which extends over two levels 58 m above the ground as it suggests. On the second floor, the view is the best at 115 m because you have a diving view of the ground below. Finally on the third floor at 275 m, you can see what the office of Gustavo Eiffel was, for the more adventurous ones, it is possible to use the stairs and climb steps which are 1665 steps to the summit.
- Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole, Paris.
- Timings: 9 AM TO 12:45 AM daily. The last Elevator ride is at 11 PM.
- Entry fees: 2765 INR
2. Notre Dame Cathedral
One of the most enduring symbols of Paris Notre Dame de Paris, also known as Notre Dame, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located on the eastern half of the Ile de la Cite and is one of the must places to visit in Paris. It is widely considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in France and Europe. Begun in 1163 and completed in 1345, this cathedral is the site with its portals surrounded by many sculptures and Gargoyles that adorn the roof.
We advise you to walk around the cathedral, then go inside and climb 387 steps to the top of the towers. The climb to the top of the tower can be exhausting, but you will get a beautiful view of the region and see the famous Gargoyles up close.
- Location: Parvis Notre Dame, Jean- Paul-II, Paris
- Timings: After the fire of 2019 it is closed for renovation and expected to reopen in December 2024.
Suggested read: Plan a trip to Paris
3. Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the most visited art museum in the world and a must-see places to visit in Paris. Located in the heart of Paris, this historic building is a former royal palace, with an area of 2,10,000 m² including 60,600 for exhibitions. The museum is housed in the Louvre, originally a fortress built in the late 12th century under Philip II. The remains of the fortress are visible in the basement of the museum.
The collection is divided into eight departments:
- Egyptian Antiquities
- Oriental Antiquities
- Greek, Etruscan, and Roman
- Islamic Art
- Sculptures of the Middle Ages
- Objects of art
- Paintings
- Graphic Arts
- Location: Musse de Luvre, Paris
- Timings: Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday 9 AM to 6 PM.Wednesday and Friday 9 AM to 9:45 PM.
- Entry fees: 4588 INR. Entry is free till the age of 18 years and for teachers, artists, and the disabled.
4. Champ Elysees/ Arc De Triumph
Under the spell of ancient Roman architecture, Napoleon commissioned Jean Chalgrin the design a triumphal arch dedicated to the glory of imperial Armies.
Built in the 19th century, it is the largest monument of its kind in the world. In addition the names of 558 generals and the great victories or engraved on the top of the Ark. Under the Arc De Triumph there is the tomb of an unknown soldier of France. 50 m high, 45 m wide, and 22 m deep the Arc de Triumph is located on the place de I’Etoile which leads to Champ Élysées Which is nicknamed the most beautiful Avenue in the world.
- Location: PI. Charles de Gaulle, Paris
- Timings: April to September – 10 AM TO 11 PM
- October to March- 10 AM TO 10:30 PM
- Entry fees: Adults -1000 INR, Groups- 600 INR, no ticket required till the age of 17 years.
5. Cruise on the Seine
Find the best way to visit the city of light by enjoying a cruise on the Seine, especially at night and a must places to visit in Paris. When the sun sets, the monuments are lit slowly. You get a panoramic view to the forefront so you can enjoy the beauty of the Paris Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Pont Alexandre III, and many more.
- Location: Port de la Bourdonnais, River Seine, Paris
- Timings: 10 AM TO 10 PM during summer, 10:30 AM TO 9 PM during winter.
- Entry fees: 1600 INR per person.
6. Montmartre
Montmartre is an enchanting Parisian district that has managed to retain its old-world charm and has become a famous melting pot of art history and culture in Paris. Montmartre is a hill located in the north of Paris, 130 m high, having its name with the surrounding neighborhood and a must places to visit in Paris. It is best known for the white-domed Basilica of the sacred heart at the top. It was completed in 1919 and honors the French victims of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. If you are in the area do visit the square of Tertre, a few blocks from. Place du Tertre is a reminder of the time when Montmartre was the hub of Modern Art in the early 20th century. Many artists such as Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, and Vincent van Gogh worked there.
- Location: Montmartre, Paris
- Timings: Anytime
- Entry fees: free
7. Palace of Versailles
Chateau de Versailles is the most famous castle in France. Built in the 17th century as a symbol of the military power of France and as a demonstration of French supremacy in Europe, Versailles was the seat of political power in the Kingdom of France from 1682 to 1789. Late King Louis 14 commissioned this extravagant palace which took 40 years to complete. Today this magnificent work is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited attractions in Paris. This huge complex of buildings, gardens, and terraces is a places to visit in Paris. Do not forget to stroll through the famous French Gardens.
- Location: Place d’Armes, Versailles, France
- Timing: 9 AM TO 5:30 PM except Mondays
- Entry fees: No entry fees except if you are opting for a guided tour of the palace which is 650 INR.
8. Latin quarters- Luxembourg park
The Latin Quarter of Paris is one of the most charming, progressive, artistic, and free-spirited places to visit in Paris. Designed somewhere around the Middle Ages, displays feature a substantial number of educational institutions, research centers, and other amenities for students’ lives like cafes and bistros. The vibrant and soulful ambiance of the area along with quirky bookshops, student hangouts, and atmospheric Parisian cafes add to the bohemian charm of the place.
The Luxembourg Park is a private garden open to the public created in 1612 at the request of Marie De Medicis to accompany the Luxembourg Palace. Parisians affectionately call it the Luco. There are 106 statues, a bronze reduction of the Statue of Liberty, and three beautiful fountains.
- Location: Latin quarters, Paris
- Timing: Anytime
- Entry fees: Free
9. Moulin rouge
The Moulin Rouge is a cabaret known as the spiritual birthplace of the famous French cancan. Located at the foot of Montmartre Hill in the heart of Pigalle, it was built in 1889 by Joseph Oller and Charles Zidler. Initially introduced as a courtship dance, the cancan made possible the birth of the Cabaret, now present in many countries around the world. Today the Moulin Rouge is a tourist attraction, providing entertainment for visitors from around the world.
- Location: IIe De France, Paris
- Timings: 9 PM to 11 PM.
- Entry fee: 12000 INR/ person
10. Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is a wonderful magical land and the must-visit places to visit in Paris, where you can get to experience fun, entertainment, and adventure alongside famous Disney characters, Marvel superheroes, and star legends. Disneyland Paris has two main theme parks – Disneyland Park Paris and Walt Disney Studio Park. Both of these theme parks have various types of rides and attractions that are sure to bring out the child in you.
The entire Wonderland is spread across a total dimension of 4800 acres and is an excellent combination of thrill and entertainment with its uncountable rides, shopping experiences, dining facilities, and resorts Disney Land features among Europe’s most visited theme parks.
- Location: Boulevard de Parc, Coupvray, France.
- Timings: The opening schedule varies according to the season so it is best to check with the official website before visiting.
- Entry fees: 7000 INR
11. Palais Garnier
Step into the world of grandeur and artistic excellence at Alliance Garnier, a legendary opera House in Paris, France. Admire its architecture, featuring intricate details, elegant sculptures, and a breathtaking chandelier that dazzles the audience. Uncover the rich history and cultural significance of this iconic landmark, which has witnessed the premiers of famous operas and palaces since its inauguration in 1875. It is a must places to visit in Paris.
Whether you attend a world-class performance or take a guided tour of its opulent interiors, this opera house promises an unforgettable experience, where artistry and elegance come together to create an enchanting ambiance for visitors.
- Location: Place de I’opera, Paris, France
- Timings: 10 AM to 5 PM
- Entry fees: 1000 INR for adults, and 700 INR for young adults aged below 25 years
12. Aquaboulevard Paris
Aquaboulevard is one of the largest water parks in Paris, offering visitors an incredible blend of enjoyment, amusement, and aquatic adventures. They offer a wide range of thrilling activities such as wave pools, slides, waterfalls, geysers, water cannons, family rafting, and water mushrooms.
It is one of a kind vast urban water park complex, that features both indoor and outdoor water adventures and entertainment intended for family entertainment and leisure. Aqua gym classes, aqua biking sessions, a fitness center, and a tennis court and available to fulfill the needs of health-conscious people. The complex also houses a multiplex theatre, and many restaurants and shops to round off your trip with food souvenirs, and entertainment. It is undoubtedly a must-see places to visit in Paris.
- Location: 4 Rue Louis Armand, Paris
- Timings: 8 AM to 11 PM
- Entry fees: 3470 INR for adults, 2000 INR for children
13. Place de la Concorde
The Place de la Concorde is the largest Plaza in Paris and is decorated with beautiful fountains it was built around 1757 and 1779 to celebrate the better health of King Louis XV. It is famous for the 3300-year-old Egyptian Luxor obelisk and two magnificent fountains. From the obelisk you can get serene views of the Tuileries garden and Louvre museum on one side and Champs- Élysées and Arc de Triomphe on the other side a must-see places to visit in Paris.
- Location: Place de la Concorde,Paris
- Timings: 10 AM to 11 PM
- Entry fees: Free
14. Sainte Chapelle
Sainte Chapelle is a beautiful royal Church built in the Gothic style and was commissioned by King Louis IX in the 13th century. It was constructed so that Louis the IX could have a place for his collection of passion relics which also includes the crown of thorns. The Chapelle is divided into two sections – the upper and the lower chapel. It is most famous for its extensive collection of stained glass windows from the 13th century. The chapel suffered tragic destruction in the late 18th century, during which the baldachin and steeple were removed. Some of the relics were dispersed and also various reliquaries like the grande Chasse were melted down. The chapel as it appears today is due to the restoration done in the 19th and 21st centuries. It is a must places to visit in Paris.
- Location: 8 Boulevard du palais, Paris
- Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM
- Entry fees: 1000 INR for adults, group price( 20 or more) is 800 INR
15. Le Manoir de Paris
A house telling dark tales in the otherwise bright and lit-up city of Paris – Le manor de Paris is a walk-in haunted house that surpasses its expectations. This largest haunted house in the city of lights, which lies somewhere between a theme park and a living museum is a two-storied plot, housing 23 rooms, all equipped with fabricated horror.
Once stepped in, a guide takes you through the mansion, where the actors unfold their theatrical magic and give you nothing but the profound and almost realistic taste of the Parisian past. The fictions that are orchestrated by these actors throughout the house depict the myths and legends that mark the history of the capital.
Le Manoir de Paris, in retrospect, unveils the mysticism and mystery of the city by showcasing thirteen legends from ancient Paris. You enter the house anticipating an immersive and bone-chilling show and leave feeling fascinated by the insightful, horrifying yet truly entertaining story-telling.
- Location: Rue de Paradis, Paris
- Timings: Monday to Friday – 6 PM to 10 PM, Saturday and Sunday – 3 PM to 7 PM
- Entry fees: adults- 2500 INR onwards, Child- 1780 INR, Fast pass- 3400 INR
What are some must-see attractions in Paris?
Places to visit in Paris are the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, and the Seine river cruise.
What are some lesser-known gems to explore in Paris?
For lesser-known hidden gems consider visiting Musse Rodin, which houses beautiful sculptures and has a peaceful garden, the Canal strait- Martin for a peaceful atmosphere, and the Paris catacombs for a unique and eerie experience.
What's the best way to experience Parisian culture?
To experience Parisi culture, immerse yourself in the culinary scene by trying out local cafes and bistros, exploring markets like Marche des Enfants rouges or rue Mouffetard, and attending cabarets.
How can I make the most of my visit to Paris?
To make the most of your visit to Paris, plan your itinerary in advance but also leave room for spontaneous exploration. Consider getting a Paris visite travel card for convenient access to attractions and public transport. Try to avoid peak tourist season if possible.