Paris, the City of Light, is one of the most enchanting destinations in the world. With its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and vibrant culture, Paris offers an endless array of activities and attractions. This itinerary is divided into eight sections, each focusing on a different aspect of what makes Paris a unique and magical destination.
Landmarks
Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without visiting the Eiffel Tower. This iconic landmark, designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks. Visitors can choose to take the elevator or climb the stairs to the second level, and then take another elevator to the top. Be sure to visit the Eiffel Tower at night when it sparkles with thousands of lights every hour.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
The Notre-Dame Cathedral is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of Paris’s most famous landmarks. Located on the Île de la Cité, the cathedral features stunning stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and towering spires. Climb to the top for a close-up view of the gargoyles and a panoramic view of Paris. The interior of the cathedral, with its impressive nave and beautiful rose windows, is equally awe-inspiring.
Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum, housed in a former royal palace, is the world’s largest and most visited art museum. The museum’s vast collection includes masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Spend a day exploring the museum’s galleries, which cover everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance paintings and modern sculptures. Don’t miss the glass pyramid entrance designed by I. M. Pei, which has become a symbol of the museum.
Food and Cuisine
Le Comptoir du Relais
For an authentic Parisian dining experience, visit Le Comptoir du Relais in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. This charming bistro, run by renowned chef Yves Camdeborde, offers a menu of classic French dishes with a modern twist. Try the duck confit, beef tartare, or the seasonal vegetable tian. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and excellent wine list make it a perfect spot for a leisurely meal.
Ladurée
Indulge your sweet tooth at Ladurée, the world-famous patisserie known for its exquisite macarons. With several locations throughout Paris, Ladurée offers a wide range of flavors, from classic vanilla and chocolate to more exotic options like rose and pistachio. Pair your macarons with a cup of tea or a hot chocolate for a truly decadent treat. The elegant tea rooms are also a great place to enjoy a light lunch or afternoon tea.
Le Cinq
For a luxurious dining experience, reserve a table at Le Cinq, the three-Michelin-starred restaurant at the Four Seasons Hotel George V. Chef Christian Le Squer creates innovative dishes using the finest ingredients, with a focus on French culinary traditions. The tasting menu is a journey through the best of French cuisine, with dishes such as langoustine, foie gras, and roasted pigeon. The elegant dining room and impeccable service make Le Cinq a memorable dining experience.
Entertainment
Moulin Rouge
Experience the glitz and glamour of Parisian nightlife at the Moulin Rouge, the world-famous cabaret in Montmartre. The iconic red windmill and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination. Enjoy a dazzling show featuring talented dancers, elaborate costumes, and spectacular choreography. The Féerie show is the highlight, with its mesmerizing performances and lavish sets. You can also opt for a dinner-and-show package to enjoy a gourmet meal before the performance.
Opéra Garnier
The Opéra Garnier, also known as the Palais Garnier, is a stunning example of French Second Empire architecture and a premier venue for opera and ballet performances. Take a guided tour of the opulent building, which features a grand staircase, marble columns, and a magnificent chandelier. If you have the opportunity, attend a performance to experience the exceptional acoustics and world-class talent. The opera house’s rich history and architectural beauty make it a cultural gem in Paris.
Le Lido
Located on the Champs-Élysées, Le Lido is another iconic Parisian cabaret known for its dazzling shows and glamorous atmosphere. The Paris Merveilles show, created by Franco Dragone, features incredible choreography, stunning costumes, and impressive stage effects. Enjoy a night of entertainment with a dinner-and-show package, which includes a gourmet meal and champagne. Le Lido offers a unique and unforgettable experience, blending tradition and modernity in its performances.
Culture
Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station, is home to an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. The museum’s light-filled galleries showcase works by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir. Highlights include Monet’s “Water Lilies,” Van Gogh’s “Starry Night Over the Rhône,” and Degas’s “The Ballet Class.” The museum also features decorative arts, sculptures, and photography, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is a hub of modern and contemporary art, known for its innovative architecture and cutting-edge exhibitions. The building’s exterior, with its exposed pipes and colorful escalators, is a striking contrast to the historic buildings of Paris. Inside, the museum’s collection includes works by Picasso, Kandinsky, Matisse, and Duchamp. The Centre Pompidou also hosts temporary exhibitions, film screenings, and performances, making it a dynamic cultural center.
Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle, located on the Île de la Cité, is a stunning Gothic chapel known for its breathtaking stained glass windows. The chapel was built in the 13th century to house religious relics, including the Crown of Thorns. The upper chapel’s 15 stained glass windows depict biblical scenes and create a kaleidoscope of colors when the sunlight streams through. Sainte-Chapelle also hosts classical music concerts, providing a magical setting for an evening of culture and music.
Outdoor Activities
Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens, located in the heart of Paris, is a beautiful oasis of greenery and tranquility. The gardens were created in the 17th century for Marie de’ Medici and feature formal French gardens, tree-lined promenades, and picturesque fountains. Visitors can relax on the iconic green chairs, rent a sailboat to float on the Grand Bassin, or visit the Luxembourg Palace, which houses the French Senate. The gardens also have a playground, tennis courts, and an orchard, making it a perfect spot for outdoor activities.
Seine River Cruise
A cruise on the Seine River offers a unique perspective of Paris’s iconic landmarks and bridges. Several companies offer sightseeing cruises, dinner cruises, and even private boat rentals. As you glide along the river, you’ll pass by famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. A sunset or nighttime cruise is especially enchanting, as the city’s monuments are beautifully illuminated. Some cruises also include live commentary or entertainment, adding to the experience.
Bois de Boulogne
The Bois de Boulogne, located on the western edge of Paris, is a vast park offering a wide range of outdoor activities. The park features several lakes, including the Lac Inférieur, where visitors can rent rowboats. The Parc de Bagatelle, a beautiful rose garden within the park, is a lovely spot for a stroll. The Bois de Boulogne also has numerous walking and biking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. For a more adventurous experience, visit the Jardin d’Acclimatation, an amusement park with rides and attractions for all ages.
Shopping
Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous shopping streets in the world, lined with luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and iconic landmarks. Start at the Arc de Triomphe and make your way down the avenue, stopping at stores such as Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and Sephora. The avenue is also home to several theaters, cinemas, and cafes, making it a lively and vibrant destination. During the holiday season, the Champs-Élysées is beautifully decorated with lights, adding to the festive atmosphere.
Le Marais
Le Marais is a trendy neighborhood known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, vintage shops, and art galleries. The narrow streets and historic buildings create a charming and vibrant atmosphere. Highlights include Merci, a concept store offering a curated selection of fashion, home goods, and design objects, and the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris. Le Marais is also home to several designer boutiques and independent shops, making it a perfect spot for unique finds.
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is a grand department store located on Boulevard Haussmann, known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and luxury shopping experience. The store offers a wide range of high-end fashion, beauty products, and home goods. Be sure to visit the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Paris, including the nearby Opéra Garnier. During the holiday season, the store’s elaborate window displays and giant Christmas tree are a must-see attraction.
History
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles, located just outside of Paris, is a magnificent example of French Baroque architecture and a symbol of royal opulence. The palace was the residence of Louis XIV, the Sun King, and features lavishly decorated rooms, including the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Grand Apartments, and the Queen’s Hamlet. The expansive gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre, are equally impressive, with their geometric flowerbeds, fountains, and sculptures. A visit to Versailles offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and grandeur of the French monarchy.
Conciergerie
The Conciergerie, located on the Île de la Cité, is a historic building that served as a royal palace and later as a prison during the French Revolution. The building’s Gothic architecture and vaulted halls are a testament to its medieval origins. Visitors can explore the former prison cells, including the cell where Marie Antoinette was held before her execution. The Conciergerie also features exhibits on the history of the French Revolution and the building’s transformation over the centuries.
Les Invalides
Les Invalides is a complex of buildings in the 7th arrondissement, originally built as a hospital and retirement home for French war veterans. Today, it is home to the Musée de l’Armée, one of the largest military museums in the world. The museum’s extensive collection includes armor, weapons, uniforms, and artifacts from various periods of French military history. The centerpiece of Les Invalides is the Dôme des Invalides, which houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. The stunning gold-domed church and the grand tomb are a tribute to the former Emperor of France.
Gardens and Parks
Tuileries Garden
The Tuileries Garden, located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, is one of Paris’s most famous public gardens. Designed by landscape architect André Le Nôtre, the garden features formal French gardens, tree-lined avenues, and beautiful fountains. Visitors can relax by the Grand Bassin, stroll through the manicured lawns, or visit the Musée de l’Orangerie, which houses Monet’s “Water Lilies” series. The garden is also home to several statues and sculptures, adding to its artistic charm.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, located in the 19th arrondissement, is a picturesque park known for its dramatic landscapes and scenic views. The park features steep cliffs, waterfalls, and a man-made lake with a charming temple perched on a hilltop. Visitors can enjoy walking and jogging trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The park’s hilly terrain and unique design make it a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.
Parc Monceau
Parc Monceau, located in the 8th arrondissement, is a beautiful English-style garden with a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. The park features winding paths, a pond, and several statues and follies, including a miniature Egyptian pyramid and a Corinthian colonnade. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and people-watching in this charming green space. The park’s elegant design and peaceful ambiance make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Festivals and Events
Bastille Day
Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14th, is France’s National Day and one of the biggest events in Paris. The festivities begin with a military parade along the Champs-Élysées, followed by various public events, including concerts, fireworks, and parties. The highlight of the day is the spectacular fireworks display at the Eiffel Tower, which illuminates the Parisian skyline. Bastille Day is a time of national pride and celebration, and experiencing it in Paris is truly unforgettable.
Nuit Blanche
Nuit Blanche, or White Night, is an annual all-night arts festival held in Paris in October. During this event, museums, galleries, and public spaces are open late, hosting a wide range of contemporary art installations, performances, and exhibitions. The city is transformed into an open-air museum, with art and culture taking center stage. Nuit Blanche offers a unique opportunity to explore Paris’s vibrant arts scene and experience the city’s creative energy.
Christmas Markets
During the holiday season, Paris comes alive with festive Christmas markets, known as “marchés de Noël.” These markets are set up in various locations throughout the city, offering a delightful array of holiday treats, crafts, and gifts. Some of the most popular markets include the ones at Champs-Élysées, Tuileries Garden, and La Défense. Visitors can enjoy mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and other seasonal delicacies while browsing the stalls for unique gifts and decorations. The markets are beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, creating a magical holiday atmosphere.
Paris offers an endless array of experiences for travelers, from its iconic landmarks and world-class cuisine to its rich cultural heritage and vibrant entertainment scene. Whether you’re exploring historic sites, indulging in delicious food, or enjoying outdoor activities, this itinerary provides a comprehensive guide to making the most of your visit to the City of Light.