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Paris, often called the City of Light, is one of the most iconic travel destinations in the world. Known for its romance, history, fashion, art, and gastronomy, it offers endless things to see and do. But if you’re visiting for the first time, you’ll probably want to start with the must-see attractions—the landmarks and experiences that define Paris.
In this extended guide, we’ll take you through the top 10 tourist attractions in Paris, with insider tips on when to visit, how to book tickets, and what makes each place unforgettable.
1. Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)
The Eiffel Tower is more than just a landmark—it’s the very symbol of Paris and one of the most visited monuments in the world. Designed by Gustave Eiffel and completed in 1889, it stands at 330 meters (1,083 ft) tall.
- What to do: Take the elevator (or stairs, if you’re brave) to the viewing platforms for panoramic views of Paris. On the second level, you’ll find shops and restaurants, while the summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views.
- Unique experience: Book a table at Le Jules Verne, the Michelin-starred restaurant inside the tower.
- Best time to visit: Evening, when the tower sparkles every hour on the hour.
To save time, check out our full guide on How to Get Eiffel Tower Tickets: 8 Easy Ways to Avoid Standing in Long Lines.
Official site: Eiffel Tower
2. Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre)
The Louvre is the largest and most famous art museum in the world, housing over 35,000 works across 652,000 square feet. From Egyptian antiquities to Renaissance masterpieces, it’s a paradise for art lovers.
- Highlights:
- Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa
- The ancient Greek statue Venus de Milo
- Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People
- Insider tip: Buy tickets online and enter through the Carrousel du Louvre (underground mall entrance) to avoid long queues.
Tip: To make the most of your visit, buy tickets online and consider reading our full guide on Louvre Museum Tickets – A Complete Guide to Booking, Saving Time, and Enhancing Your Visit to learn how to skip lines and plan efficiently.
Official site: Louvre Museum
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris)
Notre-Dame is a Gothic masterpiece that has stood on Île de la Cité since the 12th century. Famous for its stained-glass rose windows, gargoyles, and twin towers, it’s a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Although the 2019 fire damaged parts of the cathedral, restoration is ongoing, and visitors can still admire its magnificent façade and the surrounding square.
- What to do nearby: Explore Île de la Cité, stroll along the Seine, and visit Sainte-Chapelle, another Gothic gem with incredible stained glass.
Once the cathedral fully reopens, you can plan ahead with our detailed guide: Inside Notre Dame Cathedral: Plan Your Visit After Reopening.
Updates: Notre-Dame de Paris
4. Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées
Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe honors French soldiers who fought in the Napoleonic and Revolutionary wars. Standing at the top of the Champs-Élysées, it offers some of the best views of Paris.
- Experience: Climb to the rooftop terrace for stunning views of 12 grand avenues radiating from Place Charles de Gaulle.
- Tip: Visit at sunset or evening for spectacular photography.
Afterward, take a walk down the Champs-Élysées, Paris’s most famous shopping avenue, filled with designer boutiques, cafés, and theaters.
Tickets: Arc de Triomphe
5. Musée d’Orsay
Located in a beautifully restored Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d’Orsay houses the world’s largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
- Famous works:
- Monet’s Water Lilies
- Van Gogh’s Starry Night Over the Rhône
- Degas’s ballet dancer sculptures
- Don’t miss: The giant clock window on the top floor, which frames a stunning view of Paris.
Official site: Musée d’Orsay
6. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Montmartre, once home to artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, is a hilltop neighborhood with a bohemian vibe. At its summit sits the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a gleaming white church that offers sweeping views of Paris.
- What to do:
- Visit Place du Tertre, where local artists sell their paintings.
- Explore quirky cafés and cabarets, including the legendary Moulin Rouge.
- Best time: Early morning for peaceful streets, or sunset for views over the Paris skyline.
Info: Sacré-Cœur Basilica
7. Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles)
Located just 20 km from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a masterpiece of French architecture. Built for King Louis XIV, it showcases the opulence of the French monarchy.
- Highlights:
- The Hall of Mirrors, with 357 mirrors and glittering chandeliers.
- The vast Gardens of Versailles, designed by André Le Nôtre.
- Marie Antoinette’s Petit Trianon.
- Tip: Rent a bike or golf cart to explore the gardens more easily.
Official site: Palace of Versailles
8. Sainte-Chapelle
Built in the 13th century, Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic jewel known for its 15 stained-glass windows, each 15 meters tall, depicting biblical scenes. When sunlight streams through, the chapel glows like a kaleidoscope of colors.
- Unique experience: Attend a classical concert here during the evening for a magical atmosphere.
Tickets: Sainte-Chapelle
9. Seine River Cruise
A Seine River cruise is one of the most relaxing and romantic ways to experience Paris. Many cruises depart from near the Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame and offer day or evening trips.
- What to see: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame, and bridges like Pont Alexandre III.
- Options: Choose between sightseeing cruises, lunch cruises, or dinner cruises with live music.
Bookings: Bateaux Parisiens
10. Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
For a peaceful escape, head to the Luxembourg Gardens, created in the 17th century by Queen Marie de’ Medici. It’s a favorite spot for both Parisians and tourists.
- What to do:
- Stroll among statues, fountains, and flowerbeds.
- Visit the Luxembourg Palace, now home to the French Senate.
- Rent a toy sailboat at the central fountain (a tradition for children).
Info: Luxembourg Gardens – Paris Tourist Office
Conclusion
Paris is a city that can be visited dozens of times, yet it never loses its charm. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the artistic treasures of the Louvre and the bohemian streets of Montmartre, these top 10 attractions capture the very essence of the French capital.
Whether you’re here for history, art, romance, or food, Paris has something magical for every traveler. Start with these highlights, then wander off the beaten path—you’ll quickly understand why Paris is loved all over the world.
