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The Eiffel Tower isn't just a symbol of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a> but a symbol for all of <a href="https://www.viator.com/France/d51" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">France</a>. Gustave Eiffel designed the 1,050-foot (320-meter) Iron Lady to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, and it was once the world's tallest structure. Although the tower has since been dwarfed by <a href="https://www.viator.com/Dubai/d828" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Dubai</a>'s <a href="https://www.viator.com/Dubai-attractions/Burj-Khalifa/overview/d828-a1622#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Burj Khalifa</a> and <a href="https://www.viator.com/London-attractions/London-Shard/overview/d737-a6532#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">The Shard</a> in <a href="https://www.viator.com/London/d737" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">London</a>, the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. View the architectural icon from afar, or stop in at the three observation levels for stellar city views.

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower isn't just a symbol of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a> but a symbol for all of <a href="https://www.viator.com/France/d51" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">France</a>. Gustave Eiffel designed the 1,050-foot (320-meter) Iron Lady to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, and it was once the world's tallest structure. Although the tower has since been dwarfed by <a href="https://www.viator.com/Dubai/d828" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Dubai</a>'s <a href="https://www.viator.com/Dubai-attractions/Burj-Khalifa/overview/d828-a1622#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Burj Khalifa</a> and <a href="https://www.viator.com/London-attractions/London-Shard/overview/d737-a6532#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">The Shard</a> in <a href="https://www.viator.com/London/d737" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">London</a>, the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most recognizable landmarks on the planet. View the architectural icon from afar, or stop in at the three observation levels for stellar city views.The first floor of the Eiffel Tower features exhibits, kid-friendly experiences, and the 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant. The second level of the tower is home to the Jules Verne Restaurant. The third-floor summit, accessible via a glass lift, features Gustave Eiffel's private apartments and a Champagne bar. Of course, all levels offer 360-degree views of the City of Light.The Eiffel Tower can get incredibly crowded, with wait times exceeding 3 hours during the busy summer months. The best way to avoid long waits is to book your Eiffel Tower tickets online. Make sure to look for packages that include skip-the-line access. Some Eiffel Tower tours also include visits to other top sights in Paris, such as the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Arc-de-Triomphe/overview/d479-a573#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Arc de Triomphe</a>, the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Notre-Dame-Cathedral/overview/d479-a2944#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Notre Dame Cathedral</a>, the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Moulin-Rouge/overview/d479-a576#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Moulin Rouge</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Montparnasse/overview/d479-a9018#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Montparnasse</a>, and the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Louvre/overview/d479-a73#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Louvre Museum</a>. If you'd rather view the iconic structure in all its glory than head to the top, book a <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-tourism/d479-r6517257731-s109979411?m=28353&amp;supag=6517257731&amp;supsc=kwd-306890419179&amp;supai=636633872561&amp;supap=&amp;supdv=c&amp;supnt=nt:g&amp;suplp=9032926&amp;supli=&amp;supti=kwd-306890419179&amp;tsem=true&amp;supci=kwd-306890419179&amp;supap1=&amp;supap2=&amp;gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAiA9dGqBhAqEiwAmRpTCyl3iJRKsL3MBfYGx262Co0_1fNLu-PzfNsYkrpeYC8fd3z9YdJ4oxoCrgwQAvD_BwE" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Seine River cruise</a>, or a walking, biking, or Segway tour.<ul><li>Book skip-the-line tickets to avoid long wait times and ensure priority access to visit the Eiffel Tower.</li><li>If you purchase an admission ticket for Eiffel Tower summit access, you'll head straight to the top before stopping at the lower levels on your downward journey.</li><li>There are ATMs and souvenir shops on the ground floor.</li><li>The tower's first two levels are wheelchair accessible, but the summit is not.</li><li>You'll be required to undergo a security screening before entering the tower.</li></ul>Take metro line 6 to stop Bir Hakeim or RER line C to the Champ de Mars station. For better views, take metro line 6 or 9 to the Trocadero station near the Seine River.There's no bad time to visit the Eiffel Tower, but summer and the holiday months are especially atmospheric. Night tours are also great if you want to see the city illuminated. Consider visiting on Bastille Day (July 14), when firework displays light up the skies around the tower.The first-floor 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant is the perfect place to take in panoramic views of Paris and try some French cuisine. Travelers can also opt to go behind the scenes at the tower to see the exclusive engine room and the second level's rooftop terrace.Yes, advance tickets to the Eiffel Tower can sell out—but that doesn’t mean you can’t visit. Tickets for elevator rides to the second level and summit can sell out well in advance. If you don’t mind waiting in line, you can buy tickets on the day of your visit.Adult tickets for the Eiffel Tower range roughly between €11 and €30. The most affordable tickets are for accessing the second floor by stairs, while the most expensive grant access to the summit via elevator. Children under four enter for free; tickets for older kids, seniors, and people with disabilities are discounted.Yes, you can go up the Eiffel Tower without booking in advance. However, you will need to wait in line to purchase your tickets from the on-site office on the day of your visit. Note that the lines can be very long, depending on the time of year.Yes, you can buy tickets to the Eiffel Tower on the day you plan to visit. You will likely find advance tickets sold out, but can always line up for the on-site ticket office—just be prepared for a lengthy wait time depending on the time of year.The queue for the Eiffel Tower can vary in length significantly. During weekends, the summer high season, and school holidays, it’s often very long. It’s usually the shortest on weekdays and during winter. Wait times typically range from 30 minutes to several hours.You can purchase e-tickets for elevator entry to the Eiffel Tower up to 60 days in advance. If you’re buying tickets for stair entry to the landmark, you can purchase e-tickets up to seven days in advance. You can also book advance entry as part of a tour package.

Primarily associated with the steady gaze of Leonardo Da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>' Louvre museum is home to a 35,000-strong collection of paintings and sculptures. This museum, considered one of the greatest in the world, was established during the French Revolution to preserve and showcase the nation’s finest artworks. Today, the contemporary glass Louvre Pyramid heralds the museum's entrance, which millions of tourists flock to every year to feast their eyes on masterpieces that span from antiquity to the 20th century.

Louvre

Primarily associated with the steady gaze of Leonardo Da Vinci's famous Mona Lisa, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>' Louvre museum is home to a 35,000-strong collection of paintings and sculptures. This museum, considered one of the greatest in the world, was established during the French Revolution to preserve and showcase the nation’s finest artworks. Today, the contemporary glass Louvre Pyramid heralds the museum's entrance, which millions of tourists flock to every year to feast their eyes on masterpieces that span from antiquity to the 20th century.Book skip-the-line tickets for quicker access to the museum or explore the Louvre with an art expert guide for a more in-depth visit—art lovers and novices alike will benefit from such insight. <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Louvre/d479-a73?dynamicFilters=21509,11938" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Private Louvre tours</a> are a good option for those with specific interests, such as family-friendly <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Louvre/d479-a73" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Louvre tours</a> tailored to entertain children. Alternatively, choose a <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479-ttd" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris tour</a> that combines the Louvre with stops at the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Eiffel-Tower/overview/d479-a89#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Montmartre/overview/d479-a595#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Montmartre</a>, and <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Notre-Dame-Cathedral/overview/d479-a2944#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Notre Dame Cathedral</a>.The Louvre is spread across three main exhibition spaces: the Sully, Denon, and Richelieu Wings. Highlights from the ancient world include the Winged Victory of Samothrace, Seated Scribe, and Venus de Milo. If you like Renaissance art, don't miss famous works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Botticelli, and Titian. French masterpieces from the 19th century include Gericault's The Raft of the Medusa and Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People.<ul><li>The Louvre always has big crowds—book skip-the-line entry to save time.</li><li>Photography of certain major works inside the Louvre is prohibited.</li><li>A 2-, 4-, or 6-day Paris museum pass includes skip-the-line access at the Louvre and <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Musee-dOrsay/overview/d479-a577#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Orsay Museum (Musee d'Orsay)</a>, as well as entry to other top attractions.</li><li>Audio guides are available and are included in some Louvre tours and tickets.</li><li>The Louvre is accessible for visitors with physical and learning disabilities, as well as visual and hearing impairments; disabled visitors enter for free.</li><li>Give yourself plenty of time to visit the Louvre–this is not something you can see in only 30 minutes, and some people opt to spend multiple days exploring the museum.</li></ul>The Louvre is located between the Rue de Rivoli and the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/River-Seine/overview/d479-a585#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Seine River</a> in central Paris’s <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/1st-Arrondissement/overview/d479-a27389#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">1st Arrondissement</a>. Catch Metro line 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal/Musée du Louvre station. Alternatively, opt for an organized tour that includes round-trip transportation to and from the museum.On Friday evenings, the Louvre stays open well into the night, making it a great time to enjoy the museum with fewer crowds. You'll also see the glass pyramid majestically illuminated. From October through March. You can gain access to the Louvre's permanent collection for free on the first Sunday of every month.Most visitors flock to the Mona Lisa, but the Louvre is so much more than da Vinci's moody muse. Make time for Ingres' Grande Odalisque, an 18th-century nude; the cheeky 16th-century Gabrielle d’Estrées and One of Her Sisters; and a Goya classic—The Countess del Carpio. You can even explore the ruins of the fortress upon which the Louvre is built.You can either buy a regular ticket for the Louvre, or book a 1.5-hour guided tour in English or French. If you’ve got your own guide, you’ll need to select that option. All tickets are timed-entry. You can also reserve an audioguide online at the same time that you book your tickets.The Louvre is free for everyone on the 14 July (Bastille Day), except when the holiday falls on a Tuesday, when the museum is closed. It’s also free all year for visitors under 18 and for anyone 25 and under who lives in the European Economic Area.Yes, you can see some of the Louvre in two hours, but you’ll likely want longer in the museum as there’s a lot to see—35,000 works of art to be precise. If you’re short on time, a tour can help you navigate straight to the highlights.Yes, guided tours of the Louvre are available. You can book tours in English and French on the museum’s website, or book a private or group tour from an outside tour operator. Tours direct you straight to the highlights—ideal if you’re short on time—and help deepen your knowledge of art history.Yes, the Mona Lisa is included in the standard ticket price for the Louvre. The portrait is displayed behind protective glass in the Salle des États, the largest room in the museum. There are almost always crowds around the Mona Lisa, so you might have to wait a bit to get a good glimpse.Yes, Louvre tickets can sometimes sell out, so it’s a good idea to book your tickets in advance—especially if you want to secure a specific time slot, as all tickets are timed. A limited number of tickets are available at the museum during off-peak times, but the lines can be very long.

The lifeblood of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>, the River Seine acts as a dividing line between Paris' historically sophisticated and bohemian halves, while providing transportation via riverboat and plenty of opportunity for romantic strolls. The banks of the famous river are a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with the city's top landmarks, including the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Eiffel-Tower/overview/d479-a89#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Notre-Dame-Cathedral/overview/d479-a2944" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Notre Dame Cathedral</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Musee-dOrsay/overview/d479-a577" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Musée d'Orsay</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Tuileries-Garden-Jardin-des-Tuileries/overview/d479-a572" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Tuileries Garden</a>, and the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Louvre/overview/d479-a73" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Louvre</a>.

River Seine

The lifeblood of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>, the River Seine acts as a dividing line between Paris' historically sophisticated and bohemian halves, while providing transportation via riverboat and plenty of opportunity for romantic strolls. The banks of the famous river are a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with the city's top landmarks, including the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Eiffel-Tower/overview/d479-a89#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Notre-Dame-Cathedral/overview/d479-a2944" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Notre Dame Cathedral</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Musee-dOrsay/overview/d479-a577" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Musée d'Orsay</a>, <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Tuileries-Garden-Jardin-des-Tuileries/overview/d479-a572" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Tuileries Garden</a>, and the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Louvre/overview/d479-a73" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Louvre</a>.One of the best ways to see the Seine is to walk along it, particularly on the central stretch from <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Les-Invalides/overview/d479-a574#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Les Invalides</a> to <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Ile-St-Louis/overview/d479-a7823#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Île Saint-Louis</a>. There, zigzag across the river on the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Pont-Alexandre-III/overview/d479-a7822#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Pont Alexandre III</a>, Pont Royal, and <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Pont-des-Arts/overview/d479-a9027#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Pont des Arts</a> to see some of the most elegant and well-known architecture in France.Alternatively, a Seine River cruise allows you to rest your legs and enjoy panoramic views. Book a brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise to combine your sightseeing with a French meal, or opt for a River Seine tour and Eiffel Tower combo to enjoy two of Paris' most popular activities in one tour.<ul><li>Running through Paris' main tourist areas, the river's hard to miss; you won't have to go far to find it.</li><li>More than 30 bridges span the Seine within Paris city limits.</li><li>Wear comfortable shoes for walking along the banks and bridges.</li><li>Be prepared for crowds on popular bridges like Pont des Arts.</li></ul>Bordering 10 of Paris' 20 arrondissements, the Seine is within walking distance of many of the city's most popular neighborhoods. By Metro, get off at Alma-Marceau, Invalides, Pont Neuf, or Saint-Michel--Notre-Dame station to reach the most central stretch of the river.For a tranquil walk, head to the river in the early morning hours before most of the crowds and commuters arrive. Or go for an after-dinner stroll, and take in the reflections of the City of Light on the water.In northeast Paris, the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Canal-St-Martin/overview/d479-a17329#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Canal Saint-Martin</a> district is home to smaller waterways where footbridges, crossed by trendy locals, replace the Seine's traffic and tourists. Enjoy a more laid-back atmosphere and watch boats on the locks with a wander along the tree-shaded paths.You will pay around €15 (US$16) for a sightseeing cruise on the River Seine ticket, often including an audio guide. To enjoy included food or drinks and a boat tour, plan on spending around US$80 to US$100 per person for a sit-down lunch or dinner paired with wine and music.It depends. You can book a sightseeing cruise either online or directly from the ticket office before departure time. But it’s always better to reserve in advance to avoid last-minute sellouts. And if you’re joining a dinner or lunch cruise on one of the restaurant boats, book ahead of time.A typical Seine River sightseeing cruise starts from the Port de la Bourdonnais and lasts between 60 and 90 minutes. You can also find longer itineraries of 2.5 hours. Lunch or dinner cruises are longer, typically between 2.5 hours and three hours—giving you time to indulge in four courses and enjoy live accordion or piano music.Many top attractions are situated alongside this river that cuts through the heart of Paris. You’ll have front-row seats to some of the city’s biggest blockbusters on the right and left banks of the Seine. A few Paris icons include the Eiffel Tower and the Invalides, Ile de la Cité island, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum.Seine River cruises are available year-round, but the most popular time is roughly April–September, when the days tend to be warm and sunny. But that’s also when you’ll find the biggest crowds. Cruises are partially enclosed, making the festive wintertime an option as well.There are plenty of cruise options, so do your research before deciding on the right one for you. In addition to lunch and dinner cruises, you'll find combined tickets that include a cruise and entry to other attractions, such as the Louvre Museum or a Moulin Rouge show.

Second only to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris) is one of Paris' most iconic attractions, a marvel of medieval architecture that was immortalized in Victor Hugo's classic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Today, the Gothic grandeur and stained-glass windows of the UNESCO World Heritage Site continue to reign supreme from Île de la Cité, an island in the middle of the Seine River.(UPDATE: Notre Dame Cathedral is currently off-limits due to fire damage.)

Notre Dame Cathedral

Second only to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris) is one of Paris' most iconic attractions, a marvel of medieval architecture that was immortalized in Victor Hugo's classic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Today, the Gothic grandeur and stained-glass windows of the UNESCO World Heritage Site continue to reign supreme from Île de la Cité, an island in the middle of the Seine River.(UPDATE: Notre Dame Cathedral is currently off-limits due to fire damage.)Notre Dame's immense interior—with its fluted columns, ribbed vaults, and prismatic windows—is a fantastic example of French Gothic architecture. Guided tours that include skip-the-line entry are the best way to visit the cathedral; not only will you avoid long lines, but your guide's expertise will ensure you notice even subtle details.The cathedral can also be visited as part of a full-day Paris sightseeing tour—itineraries typically cover places such as the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Montmartre, or include a Seine River cruise, and provide insight into the history and culture of France.<ul><li>The cathedral is set to reopen in December 2024.</li><li>A Paris museum pass covers skip-the-line entry to 50 top Paris attractions, including Notre Dame and Musée d'Orsay.</li><li>Climb the 387 steps of the north tower, braving gargoyles along the way, for panoramic views of Paris.</li><li>Notre Dame Cathedral is not fully wheelchair accessible, as there is a small step to enter and a few steps inside.</li></ul>Notre Dame's central location makes it incredibly easy to reach by public transportation. Take the RER B or RER C line to the St-Michel Notre-Dame station, or to Cité on Line 4 of the Metro. To walk there, follow the Seine River from the Eiffel Tower for a 1-hour stroll brimming with Parisian highlights and hidden gems.The cathedral is not set to reopen until December 2024. If visiting Paris in the winter, head to Notre Dame right before closing to watch the sunset and see the City of Light twinkle. In the evening, the cathedral's square comes to life in a riot of music and performance. Watch street performers juggle fire, grab a bite from a vendor, or simply admire Notre Dame illuminated by night.Notre Dame Cathedral may be one of the most famous examples of French Gothic architecture in the capital, but it's far from the only one. Explore more Parisian Gothic at the Cluny Museum, home to half a dozen impressive wall hangings; head to Saint Chapelle to admire some of the most beautiful medieval stained glass; or stop by the Church of Saint Severin in the 5th arrondissement.Not yet. Notre Dame Cathedral is set to reopen in December 2024, following the devastating fire in 2019. However, the surrounding area, including its public square and access roads, will remain under construction for years to come. Despite the ongoing construction, much of the exterior is still visible.The best ways to reach Notre Dame Cathedral are via public transportation. Take Métro line 4 to Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame stations; both are a few minutes’ walk from the landmark. Saint-Michel Notre-Dame also is served by lines B and C of the RER commuter train and numerous bus lines.Yes, although tour groups cannot currently enter the cathedral, a number of itineraries stop outside the landmark. Options range from walking tours of the Île de la Cité and central Paris to private driving tours, hop-on hop-off bus tours, river boat tours of the Seine, and many more.Notre Dame dates to the 12th century and is the most famous among Europe’s Gothic cathedrals. Considered a symbol of France—and one of Paris’ main landmarks—it has played a key role in important moments in French history (like the crowning of Napoleon) and was immortalized in fiction by Victor Hugo.Notre Dame Cathedral is located on the Île de la Cité, right in the heart of the city. It is near many other top Paris landmarks, including Sainte Chapelle, the Conciergerie, and the Hôtel de Ville. It’s also a highlight of the Banks of the Seine UNESCO World Heritage Site.Yes, it is worth visiting Notre Dame Cathedral, even while it is undergoing renovation following the 2019 fire. Thankfully, the cathedral’s iconic exterior is still well-preserved, and it remains an icon of the Paris cityscape. Architecture fans should be sure to visit once tours of its interior resume.

Formerly a humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) is the extravagant creation of King Louis XIV, AKA the Sun King. Embellished in royal decadence, Versailles features hundreds of rooms with frescoed ceilings and carvings, plus the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Versailles-attractions/Versailles-Gardens-Jardins-de-Versailles/d763-a2587" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Versailles Gardens (Jardins de Versailles)</a>, which brim with geometrically designed walkways and fountains. No visit to France is complete without visiting the royal residence.

Palace of Versailles

Formerly a humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) is the extravagant creation of King Louis XIV, AKA the Sun King. Embellished in royal decadence, Versailles features hundreds of rooms with frescoed ceilings and carvings, plus the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Versailles-attractions/Versailles-Gardens-Jardins-de-Versailles/d763-a2587" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Versailles Gardens (Jardins de Versailles)</a>, which brim with geometrically designed walkways and fountains. No visit to France is complete without visiting the royal residence.Visiting every one of the palace's rooms would take days. With less time, a Versailles highlights guided tour is the best option. Options range from skip-the-line tours to private and small-group history tours. Combo tours which visit Versailles alongside the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Eiffel-Tower/d479-a89" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a> and <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Louvre/d479-a73" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Louvre</a> (or the village of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Giverny/d479-a571" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Giverny</a>) are great for first-time visitors.However you visit, don’t miss the gold-framed windows in the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Versailles-attractions/Hall-of-Mirrors/d763-a18416" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Hall of Mirrors</a>, the priceless antique furniture in the King’s Grand Chambers, and the regal <a href="https://www.viator.com/Versailles-attractions/Royal-Chapel/d763-a12651" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Royal Chapel</a>. Meanwhile, in the gardens, the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Versailles-attractions/Grand-Canal/d763-a12653" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Grand Canal</a> dominates while musical fountains dance to classical music.<ul><li>The site is incredibly popular—book skip-the-line Palace of Versailles tickets to save time.</li><li>Most Palace of Versailles tours from Paris include hotel pickup and drop-off.</li><li>Select a tour that combines round-trip transport with an audio guide for a self-guided experience.</li><li>The palace and trianons are wheel-chair accessible. As are the English and French Gardens.</li></ul>The palace is in the small township of Versailles, France, 13 miles (21 kilometers) outside of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479-ttd" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>. It’s easy to reach by train: Catch RER C from Paris to Versailles Rive Gauche station, only a 10-minute walk from the palace. You can take the SNCF train to Versailles Chantiers or Versailles Rive Droite stations.Enjoy free admission on the first Sunday of every month from November to March. The Musical Fountains in the gardens are most magical at night. Visit the gardens on Saturday evenings between June and September to see a special musical fountain show crowned with fireworks.While the Palace of Versailles is undeniably the main draw in the tiny town of Versailles, there's lots more to see and do. The decadent Musée Lambinet is a must, while the Versailles market is one of the largest in France. The Versailles Cathedral also makes for some great photos. Meanwhile, on the Versailles estate itself, don't miss the Hameau de la Reine, a tranquil spot overlooked by many.You’ll need at least three hours to get a feel for the Palace of Versailles and its gardens. But it’s worth devoting an entire day to explore at a relaxed pace. For lunch, bring a picnic or grab something to eat at one of the many food and drink outlets.Visit the Palace of Versailles on Wednesdays and Thursdays to avoid crowds. The palace closes on Mondays, which leads a lot of early-week visitors to come on Tuesdays. Fridays attract pre-weekend crowds.The best time to arrive at the Palace of Versailles is as soon as it opens in the morning, when it’s the least crowded. If you only want to spend a couple of hours there, arrive later in the afternoon, when the majority of the people have gone.The Palace of Versailles is open from morning until early evening November to March and stays open an hour later between April and October. The gardens, park, and Estate of Trianon also stay open later during the high season.Yes, you can bring backpacks of a certain size into the Palace of Versailles. The maximum bag size allowed is 21.65 x 13.75 x 7.75 inches (55 x 35 x 20 centimeters). If your bag is larger, you’ll have to leave it in one of the free lockers in the South Ministers’ Wing.The Palace of Versailles, Estate of Trianon, and Gardens of Versailles close on Mondays and select public holidays. The surrounding park is open daily throughout the year. Note that the palace sometimes closes in severe weather.

Rivaling the Louvre as Paris' favorite art museum, the Orsay Museum (Musée d'Orsay) is known for its impressionist, post-impressionist, and art nouveau works from 1848 to 1914. Equally impressive as what’s inside the museum is its exterior: a former Beaux-Arts railway station with an enviable location on the banks of the Seine River. Both architecture and art buffs will want this museum on their Parisian itineraries.

Orsay Museum (Musée d'Orsay)

Rivaling the Louvre as Paris' favorite art museum, the Orsay Museum (Musée d'Orsay) is known for its impressionist, post-impressionist, and art nouveau works from 1848 to 1914. Equally impressive as what’s inside the museum is its exterior: a former Beaux-Arts railway station with an enviable location on the banks of the Seine River. Both architecture and art buffs will want this museum on their Parisian itineraries.With its position in the 7th arrondissement, just across the river from the Jardin des Tuileries, the Orsay Museumis easy to visit during a day of sightseeing in central Paris. Tickets are available on site, but you can avoid any wait by booking a skip-the-line ticket or a guided museum tour in advance. Or, opt for an enhanced experience that combines an art walking tour with a Orsay Museumskip-the-line ticket.Once inside, you'll be immersed in the world of Monet, Pissarro, Renoir, and other masters of the 19th and 20th centuries. Works include Degas'The Ballet Class and Van Gogh'sStarry Night. In addition to the paintings, don't miss the museum's large clock, which you can look through for a view of the Right Bank.<ul><li>Do not bring suitcases, backpacks, or other travel bags; they are not permitted inside and cannot be left in the cloakroom.</li><li>Note that security is sometimes heightened at this popular site. The museum follows security measures per French authorities, and this can lead to delays.</li><li>Wheelchairs and pushchairs can be borrowed from the cloakroom, while large strollers and baby carriers are not allowed.</li></ul>Paris is best seen on foot, so try to visit the Orsay Museumduring a stroll along the Seine. Otherwise, the museum can be reached via public transit from the Rue de Bac, Solférino, or Assemblée Nationale metro stations or the Gare du Musée d'Orsay RER station.The museum is open from 9:30am to 6pm Tuesday to Sunday, with extended hours until 9:45pm on Thursdays. If you have the flexibility to go on Thursday evening, you’ll have a better chance of avoiding crowds. Also keep in mind that Paris is busiest in summer.If you get hungry for something light, sandwiches and salads can be purchased at Café de l'ours, but for a more thematic dining experience at the museum, visit one of its two restaurants. At Café Campana, enjoy classic Parisian brasserie fare in a dreamy underwater environment inspired by Emile Gallé, a French artist and influencer of Art Nouveau. Or go upscale at the Restaurant du Musée d'Orsay, where French cuisine related to museum events is served in an elegant, chandelier-lined room with gilded detailing and large windows.To fully appreciate the Musée d'Orsay, allocate 2–3 hours on average, considering your interest level in art. Enthusiasts can explore Impressionist, post-Impressionist, and decorative artworks, while those with limited time could cover highlights in an hour or two. To optimize your experience, consider a private guided tour with skip-the-line admission.To enjoy the least crowded experience at the Musée d'Orsay, visit Thursday evenings when the museum offers extended hours. Additionally, Wednesday and Friday mornings are quieter to visit, allowing visitors to explore the museum's extensive collections in a more serene and relaxed environment.Yes, you're welcome to take photos and film videos at Musée d'Orsay for personal use. Just remember to turn off your flash. Some artworks might have photo restrictions, clearly marked. If you're planning commercial or group photography, get permission beforehand. Be sure to store all camera stands and lighting gear in the cloakroom.Yes, the Musee d'Orsay is accessible with provisions like wheelchairs, canes, and folding seats. Strollers with metal frames aren't allowed, but there are strollers in the cloakroom. Elevators and ramps ensure access for reduced mobility visitors and strollers. Additional services include adapted audioguides with induction loops and French Sign Language (LSF).Yes, for an additional fee, the Musée d'Orsay offers one daily guided tour, which provides insights into the collections by focusing on key masterpieces. Visitors can also rent an audio guide covering the museum’s major exhibitions. For a personalized and flexible experience, book a private tour through an external provider.The Musee d’Orsay is closed on Mondays, May 1, and Dec. 25. It is open Tuesday through Sunday, with extended late-night hours on Wednesdays. Plan your Paris trip accordingly to ensure a delightful experience while exploring the museum's exceptional collection of art and history.

The Paris Catacombs (Catacombes de Paris) date back to the 1700s, when the ossuary was formed from an old underground quarry. Over the years, more and more remains were brought here from overcrowded cemeteries to make room for the city's development, up until 1860. For those with an interest, it’s a fascinating look at a former burial practice.

Paris Catacombs (Catacombes de Paris)

The Paris Catacombs (Catacombes de Paris) date back to the 1700s, when the ossuary was formed from an old underground quarry. Over the years, more and more remains were brought here from overcrowded cemeteries to make room for the city's development, up until 1860. For those with an interest, it’s a fascinating look at a former burial practice.Paris Catacombs tours take you 135 feet (20 meters) below ground to explore this subterranean world of skeletal remains. You’ll cover just under one mile (1.5 km), which takes about 45 minutes. The catacombs aren’t usually part of standard city tours, so they’re often experienced on a standalone tour. Book a skip-the-line ticket to bypass the queue, or make your sightseeing even easier by selecting combo admission to both the catacombs and the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Eiffel-Tower/d479-a89" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a>.<ul><li>Buy Paris Catacombs tickets in advance to avoid waiting in a long line; visitors are limited to 200 at a time.</li><li>You may want to bring a layer, as the temperature is 57° F (14° C) in the catacombs.</li><li>There is no cloakroom, so bring only what you want to carry with you.</li><li>Wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll go down 130 steps and up 83 steps to return to street level.</li><li>The catacombs tour is not for everyone—you will be underground and see human bones, so it's not recommended for those with sensitive disposition or young children.</li><li>Tite is not accessible for those with limited mobility, and is not recommended for those with heart or respiratory problems.</li></ul>The catacombs are located in <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>' 14th arrondissement. The Denfert-Rochereau metro and RER station puts you right by the entrance on Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy.The catacombs are open every day except Mondays and some bank holidays. The experience is the same by day and in the evening, as you’re underground and the lighting is artificial. For fewer crowds, book a morning visit.This section of Paris is not the city’s most visited, as it’s away from the Seine near the southern edge of the city limits. If you’re making the trip to visit the catacombs, take advantage of being in the 14th to check out other attractions such as the 56th-floor observation deck of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Tour-Montparnasse/d479-a7800" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Montparnasse Tower</a> or <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Montparnasse-Cemetery-Cimetiere-du-Montparnasse/d479-a9017" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Montparnasse Cemetery</a>, where writers and intellectuals such as Charles Baudelaire, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir are buried.Yes. It is possible to tour the notable Paris Catacombs, a captivating series of tunnels filled with millions of bones from former Parisians. Estimated to house over 6 million skeletal remains, this ancient cemetery sprawls far beyond regular sight lines, and knowledgeable tour guides are ready to escort both small and large groups.Yes. The Paris Catacombs truly must be seen in person to be fully appreciated. Within expansive limestone quarries—which were used to tunnel out much of the foundation behind some of Paris’ earliest structures—lies a captivating underground world of skulls, bones, and artifacts from centuries past.This vast underground network, filled with ancient bones and historical relics, can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to experience, depending on your route and how much you choose to explore. Moving through it slowly gives you a chance to discover new surprises, from secret spaces to alcoves off the well-trodden paths.No. There is no toilet in the Catacombs of Paris, so plan accordingly. It is estimated that 6 to 7 million bodies were laid to rest beneath the city. The collection of ossuaries is more than 200 feet (61 meters) beneath city streets, making it impossible to use a restroom while touring the tunnels.While you cannot use professional photography equipment, visitors can take pictures with their phone cameras. The catacombs are riddled with fascinating art, sculptures, and tombs allowing plenty of opportunities for personal photography—but not professional. Video recording is also strictly prohibited throughout the tour.No. It is important to remember that touching or physically interacting with the bones is not allowed. This location contains the resting places of millions of individuals, and visitors should treat them with respect and dignity. Before visiting, research the history of the catacombs so you can make sure to follow appropriate etiquette during your visit.

Expect bright lights, extravagant costumes, and raucous music at the world-famous Moulin Rouge. Opened in the Belle Epoque of 1889 to celebrate <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris'</a> thriving creative scene, the windmill-cum-cabaret hall has never stopped basking in fun and frivolity. As a staple of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-tours/Nightlife/d479-g6-c81" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Parisian nightlife</a>, an unforgettable evening at the Moulin Rouge is a must on any traveler's <a href="https://www.viator.com/France/d51" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">France</a> itinerary.

Moulin Rouge

Expect bright lights, extravagant costumes, and raucous music at the world-famous Moulin Rouge. Opened in the Belle Epoque of 1889 to celebrate <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris'</a> thriving creative scene, the windmill-cum-cabaret hall has never stopped basking in fun and frivolity. As a staple of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-tours/Nightlife/d479-g6-c81" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Parisian nightlife</a>, an unforgettable evening at the Moulin Rouge is a must on any traveler's <a href="https://www.viator.com/France/d51" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">France</a> itinerary.Best known for its glittering performances, troupes of glitzily clad Doriss girls, and expertly choreographed French cancan routines, the cabaret plays host to one of the top shows in Europe. As such, booking in advance is essential to snag a seat for this cabaret spectacular, one of the most sought-after in Paris.Moulin Rouge tickets range from those which combine VIP seats on a private balcony with a gourmet 4-course dinner and Champagne to those with simple showtime admission; most include round-trip transportation. Or, combine a show with a Seine River dinner cruise or city illuminations tour that passes by the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Eiffel-Tower/d479-a89" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a> and more.<ul><li>Photography and video recording are not allowed inside the Moulin Rouge Paris.</li><li>Opt for Moulin Rouge tours that include round-trip transfers to avoid having to worry about transportation.</li><li>Despite the show's adult themes, kids ages 6 and up are allowed inside the venue.</li><li>The cabaret's dress code prohibits shorts, flip-flops, and sneakers.</li><li>The Moulin Rouge is accessible for those with limited mobility, although there are a few steps that wheelchair users won't be able to navigate without help.</li></ul>From central Paris, the Moulin Rouge is easily accessible by public transport: disembark at Place de Clichy on Metro line 13, or at Blanche on Metro line 2. By taxi, Moulin Rouge is just a 15-minute drive from central Paris depending on traffic. Many tours include round-trip transportation.The famous cabaret stages shows at 9pm and 11pm, with occasional matinee performances. If you opt for the late Moulin Rouge show, the performance can run as late as 1:30am, meaning public transport will have ceased operation. If your tour doesn't include round-trip transportation, be prepared to wait in the taxi line or soak up Paris' evening ambiance at one of the bars in the area.Immortalized (and fictionalized) on film by Baz Luhrmann in 2001, the Moulin Rouge has a long and illustrious history. First opened in 1889, the Moulin Rouge was a melting pot of the lower classes, bourgeois writers, artists, and sex workers that enjoyed immediate popularity. It was also home to some of the most famous dancers of the day—including Miss Jenny and La Goulue—who delighted with renditions of the French cancan. Now, it's a Paris must-see.The dress code for Moulin Rouge Paris is smart-casual, though many visitors dress to impress. Wearing shorts of any length, sandals, or sportswear, including sneakers, can get you turned away at the door, so men should wear closed-toed shoes. You’ll also need to remove any hats before entering the venue.You can book tickets for all Moulin Rouge performances, including lunch and dinner shows, through the Moulin Rouge website or over the phone. You can also book add-ons such as Champagne, wine, and priority access online. Shows are known to sell out months in advance, so it’s wise to book in advance.The Moulin Rouge Cabaret is worth seeing if you’re a fan of the performing arts. It’s considered the birthplace of the can-can dance and is one of Paris’s most popular shows. Note that if you’re planning to enjoy an alcoholic drink, you might want to pre-purchase a package that includes wine or Champagne.The Moulin Rouge does sell out, and tickets are often reserved weeks or even months in advance, especially during the busier summer season. It’s always wise to book in advance, especially if you want to attend one of the lunch or dinner shows or get priority seating.Moulin Rouge’s Féerie shows last just under two hours. Note that doors generally open anywhere from an hour to 75 minutes ahead of showtime, so it’s a good idea to arrive in advance to find your seat, buy drinks and souvenirs, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.Moulin Rouge is geared towards adults, as most performers dance topless. However, anyone aged six or older is welcome to attend. Children under 12 pay less for admission tickets, but you might need to prove your child’s age by presenting an ID card upon arrival.

Crowned by the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, historic Montmartre in Paris’ 18th arrondissement is famed for its cobblestone streets, artsy past and present, and central hill. Visitors flock here to imagine what life was like during the Belle Epoque—when artists such as Dalí, Renoir, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Picasso lived and worked in Montmartre—as well as get their portrait sketched in Place du Tertre.

Montmartre

Crowned by the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, historic Montmartre in Paris’ 18th arrondissement is famed for its cobblestone streets, artsy past and present, and central hill. Visitors flock here to imagine what life was like during the Belle Epoque—when artists such as Dalí, Renoir, Van Gogh, Toulouse-Lautrec, and Picasso lived and worked in Montmartre—as well as get their portrait sketched in Place du Tertre.Montmartre is included in many city sightseeing tours alongside other top attractions, which are great options for time-pressed travelers in Paris. For a more in-depth look at Montmartre, select an experience tailored to your interests, such as a Montmartre food tour or an art-themed walking tour. For nighttime fun, head to a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge, located down the hill in Pigalle. Of course, Montmartre can also be visited independently.<ul><li>Montmartre is a popular part of Paris, so be prepared for crowds in the busy summer season.</li><li>The neighborhood is a must-see for art history buffs and those looking for postcard views.</li><li>Wear comfortable walking shoes for the many stairs and cobblestones of Montmartre.</li><li>Montmartre is not easily accessible for wheelchair users, thanks to raised curbs and cobblestone sidewalks.</li></ul>Montmartre can be easily reached from across Paris. Climb the hill on foot, ride the funicular to the base of Sacré-Coeur, or opt for the photo-friendly staircases. By public transit, the Abbesses metro station deposits you a few blocks from Place du Tertre, and the Anvers metro station puts you just below Sacré-Coeur. Any taxi driver will know how to get to Montmartre.Just like the rest of Paris, Montmartre will charm you at any time of year. If you’re there in summer, go in the morning to beat the masses and enjoy the neighborhood’s architecture and atmosphere in relative tranquility.Less of a secret than it used to be but still an interesting hidden gem, Le Clos Montmartre is the only working vineyard in Paris. Set on the slopes of the hill, north of Place du Tertre, the vines were originally planted to defend the area from property development and are owned by the city. Catching a glimpse of the vineyard offers a nice respite from Montmartre’s crowds and while it’s not open to the general public, you can book a tour.The top attractions to visit in Montmartre in Paris include the domed Basilique du Sacré-Coeur (Basilica of the Sacred Heart), Montmartre’s standout landmark and a sacred site, and the Moulin Rouge, the famous cabaret hall that’s home to the Doriss girls and their carefully choreographed cancans.Yes, there’s a range of guided tours available in Montmartre. The classic is a walking tour of the neighborhood that includes admission to the Sacré-Coeur, but there are also food tours and quirkier options that showcase Montmartre’s hidden gems. Many day-long Paris tours pass by Montmartre, too.The Montmartre neighborhood is north of central Paris; it takes around 30 minutes to get there by metro. By public transit, ride the metro to the Anvers stop close to the Sacré-Coeur. Otherwise, hop off at the Abbesses stop, a short walk from Montmartre’s Place du Tertre.Montmartre Hill and the Sacré-Coeur are the best viewpoints in Montmartre for panoramic views of Paris. If you’ve paid for Sacré-Coeur admission, climb the spiral staircase up the dome to gaze at the Eiffel Tower. If not, soak up views from the steps in front of the basilica.Moulin Rouge shows take place in the evening, so you can’t catch a performance if you’re only in Paris for a day. However, many guided tours of Paris or Montmartre stop outside the Moulin Rouge; they typically explain its history and give you time to take photos.Yes, Montmartre was the place to be during the Belle Epoque era. During these creative years, famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Toulouse-Lautrec, Salvador Dalí, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir were drawn to the neighborhood. Many Montmartre tours focus on art history and the artists who made this Parisian hill their home.

An instantly recognizable symbol of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>, the colossal Arc de Triomphe stands at the epicenter of Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 of the city’s busiest avenues converge. The Napoleon-commissioned monument, adorned with high-relief sculptures depicting sword-wielding soldiers and inscribed with the names of generals and battles, commemorates French soldiers and military victories. The top of the arch, accessible via 284 steps, affords superb views over all of Paris.

Arc de Triomphe

An instantly recognizable symbol of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>, the colossal Arc de Triomphe stands at the epicenter of Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 of the city’s busiest avenues converge. The Napoleon-commissioned monument, adorned with high-relief sculptures depicting sword-wielding soldiers and inscribed with the names of generals and battles, commemorates French soldiers and military victories. The top of the arch, accessible via 284 steps, affords superb views over all of Paris.The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’ most visited monuments. Many travelers admire the famous landmark only from ground level, either independently or as part of a sightseeing tour. However, it’s well worth climbing to the arch’s viewing terrace at 164 feet (50 meters) to enjoy sweeping views of the city and its top sights, including the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Basilique-du-Sacre-Coeur/d479-a586" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Basilique du Sacré-Coeur</a>, the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Eiffel-Tower/d479-a89" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Eiffel Tower</a>, and the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Avenue-des-Champs-Elysees/d479-a582" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Avenue des Champs-Élyséess</a>, which lead down to the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Louvre/d479-a73" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Louvre</a>.<ul><li>Use the pedestrian underpasses beneath Place Charles de Gaulle to reach the arch. Do not attempt to cross the roundabout—Paris’ busiest traffic circle—on foot.</li><li>The viewing terrace is not wheelchair-accessible. An elevator goes part way up the arch, but visitors must still climb 46 steps to access the top.</li><li>Arc de Triomphe tickets are for timed entry.</li><li>Book skip-the-line tickets in advance to beat the crowds.</li><li>Be sure to bring a camera to capture the Parisian skyline.</li></ul>The Arc de Triomphe is located on Place Charles de Gaulle at the top of the Champs-Elysees, about a 30-minute walk from Place de la Concorde at the famous avenue’s opposite end. Metro #1, #2, and #6 lines, and the commuter rail RER A line connect to Charles de Gaulle–Étoile, the nearest station.Visibility is best during summer when skies are most likely to be clear. The best views can be had at dusk when the cream-stone cityscape appears to glow gold under the light of the setting sun. Sunset is, however, also the busiest time. To avoid crowds, visit earlier in the day. Public guided Arc de Triomphe tours are available several times daily.Time your Arc de Triomphe visit for 6:30pm to witness the lighting of the eternal flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The solemn ceremony takes place at the base of the monument, where an unidentified World War I soldier is buried.The best time to visit the Arc de Triomphe is around 6pm, when the Eternal Flame is rekindled. After dark is also atmospheric, as you can admire the city’s illuminations. The NYE fireworks and Bastille Day parade are equally spectacular, but avoid the crowds by opting for a weekday morning visit instead.The Arc de Triomphe is among Paris’ most famous landmarks. You shouldn’t miss the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame, or the views from the observation deck, from which you can spot top Paris attractions such as the Champs Elysées, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre.You don’t need a reservation for the Arc de Triomphe, but booking in advance is recommended. While you can buy tickets on arrival, you might wait up to an hour at busy times and entry isn’t always guaranteed. Booking a timed admission ticket or guided tour lets you skip the lines and guarantees entry.Plan to spend an hour at the Arc de Triomphe, as this will give you time to admire its unique architecture, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame, and take in the views from the observation deck. Book your tickets in advance to skip the lines and save time.Queues at the Arc de Triomphe can take up to 1.5 hours at busy times, which are summers, holiday weekends, and evenings during the Christmas illuminations. To skip the long lines, buy your tickets online and get a timed entry slot, or plan your visit for the first or last entry when there are fewer crowds.Visiting the Arc de Triomphe at night affords even more spectacular views, and the observation deck stays open until 11pm from April through September and until 10:30pm from October through March. However, the last entry is 45 minutes before closing, so you should arrive before 10:15pm or 9:45pm, depending on the season.

From riding Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain to flying with Peter Pan and snapping a selfie with Mickey Mouse, few theme parks serve up as much fairy-tale wonder as the magical kingdom of Disneyland®. With some 14 million annual visitors, Disneyland® Paris is Europe’s biggest theme park, boasting adrenaline-fueled rides, state-of-the-art movie sets, and spectacular shows and parades that make it a fantasyland for kids and adults alike.

Disneyland® Paris

From riding Star Wars Hyperspace Mountain to flying with Peter Pan and snapping a selfie with Mickey Mouse, few theme parks serve up as much fairy-tale wonder as the magical kingdom of Disneyland®. With some 14 million annual visitors, Disneyland® Paris is Europe’s biggest theme park, boasting adrenaline-fueled rides, state-of-the-art movie sets, and spectacular shows and parades that make it a fantasyland for kids and adults alike.Two theme parks make up Disneyland® Paris —the Disneyland® Park and the Walt Disney Studios®Park—and a variety of ticket options are available. Choose from single-day and multi-day passes, hopper tickets that allow full-access to both parks, and FASTPASS® tickets that offer skip-the-line entrance to the most popular rides and attractions.It’s impossible to see everything on a day tour, so if you only have a one-day pass, plan your schedule carefully to ensure you don’t miss the shows, parades, and rides that most interest you. To ensure a hassle-free vacation, pre-book a one-way or round-trip transfer to Disneyland Resort® Paris from your hotel or Charles de Gaulle Airport.<ul><li>Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared to do lots of walking.</li><li>Be prepared to wait in line for up to two hours for popular rides at peak times, especially in the busiest months of July and August.</li><li>Disneyland® Paris is wheelchair accessible, priority access is offered to many rides and attractions, and full accessibility maps are available.</li><li>Wheelchairs, strollers, and pushchairs are available for rent inside the park.</li><li>Families with young kids can take advantage of Baby Switch, which allows one parent to wait with younger children, without having to get back in line for their turn.</li><li>Budget travelers can save on costs by bringing a refillable water bottle (drinking water fountains are located around the park), a packed lunch, and snacks—eating out in the Disney Village can be pricey.</li><li>Most buildings in the resort are air-conditioned.</li></ul>Disneyland® Paris is located 20 miles (32 kilometers) east of the center of <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a> in Marne-la-Vallée. The RER A train from central Paris takes about 40 minutes to reach the Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station, and regular shuttle buses run to and from the Orly and Charles de Gaulle airports. Private transfers and taxis typically take about an hour, depending on traffic.Disneyland® Paris is open year-round, and most attractions, shows, and parades run even in low season. The busiest and most crowded times are the summer and Christmas holidays, when lines are long but opening hours are extended. Those on a budget can find deals by visiting in the low season (November to March) or midweek rather than on weekends, but be aware that there will be fewer shows. For an extra dose of Disney magic, visit during special events such as Halloween, Bonfire Night (early November), New Year’s Eve, or Christmas.At Disneyland® Park, the most popular rides include Big Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain: Mission 2, Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, Indiana Jones™ and the Temple of Peril, and Pirates of the Caribbean. The top rides at Walt Disney Studios® Park are Ratatouille: The Ride, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster® Starring Aerosmith, and Flying Carpets Over Agrabah. Other must-do experiences include meet-and-greets with Disney characters, the Disney parades, a ride on the Disneyland® Railroad, and the chance to have dinner with Mickey Mouse.The cheapest months to visit Disneyland Paris are during winter, outside of the Christmas period. Plan your stay between January and early February, or opt for a weekday visit in March or November. School vacation periods are always more expensive, but February and May half-terms offer the best value deals.No, it’s not free to enter Disneyland Paris—there are admission fees for both Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney Studios Park. However, entry to the Disney Village is free, where you’ll find the Disney shops, themed restaurants, and an entertainment complex. Fees still apply for meals, activities, and some seasonal shows and parades.Yes, you can bring a picnic lunch, snacks, or sandwiches into the park—there’s a picnic area close to the Disney Parks entrance. However, you can’t bring cool boxes, tables, or large picnic baskets or containers into the Disneyland Park or Walt Disney Studios Park.You can buy Disneyland tickets up to 12 months in advance—bookings are essential as you can’t buy tickets at the gate. Tickets often sell out for busy periods, special events, and holiday weekends, so try to reserve as early as possible. Booking early also gets you the best deals.Yes. Small backpacks, handbags, and purses are allowed at Disneyland Paris, though large backpacks and suitcases aren’t permitted. The maximum size is 55cm x 40cm x 25cm, including wheels, pockets, and handles—you’ll need to leave any item larger than this at the luggage storage facility outside the parks.You can buy admission tickets for the two Disneyland Paris parks—Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park—separately or opt for a combo pass. You can also choose between a 1-day undated pass, valid for 12 months from the time of purchase, or a dated 1-, 2-, 3-, or 4-day pass.

The Grand Palais is one of Paris’ most beautiful and recognizable structures. Debuted in 1900 in time for the World’s Fair, the architectural marvel is famed for its colossal nave, Beaux-Arts architecture, and immense glass roof. Today, the Grand Palais houses several gallery areas and also hosts tournaments, Chanel fashion shows, and other major events.

Grand Palais

The Grand Palais is one of Paris’ most beautiful and recognizable structures. Debuted in 1900 in time for the World’s Fair, the architectural marvel is famed for its colossal nave, Beaux-Arts architecture, and immense glass roof. Today, the Grand Palais houses several gallery areas and also hosts tournaments, Chanel fashion shows, and other major events.Situated just steps from the Champs-Élysées, the Grand Palais has been a major artistic and cultural destination for more than a century. A classified Historic Monument since 2000, the building is renowned for its opulent appeal; like the neighboring Petit Palais and Pont Alexandre III, it was originally created for the 1900 World’s Fair. In World War I, it was used as a hospital; though occupied by the Nazis in World War II, it also became a headquarters for the French Resistance. Following a lengthy period of renovation in the 1990s, the palace is now one of the city’s top cultural venues, and attracts upwards of 2 million visitors annually.The Grand Palais is a popular and centrally located stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours, bike tours, and walking tours of the area, and its unique glass roof can also be glimpsed during Seine River cruises. Its two museums—the Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais (home to blockbuster art exhibitions) and the Palais de la Découverte (a family-friendly science museum)—are also worth discovering.<ul><li>Avoid bringing luggage or large bags during your visit, as they are prohibited by the venue, even in the cloakroom area.</li><li>The Grand Palais has several main entrances; visitors with reduced mobility should use the entrances at the Avenue du Général Eisenhower or at the Avenue Winston-Churchill.</li><li>The Grand Palais is set to close for extensive renovations from 2020–2024, during which time a temporary venue will open on the Champ de Mars.</li></ul>The Champs-Élysées - Clemenceau Métro station, which is served by lines 1 and 13, is mere steps away. Just across the Seine, the Invalides station (which is served by lines 8 and 13, as well as the RER C) is another option. The 28, 42, 52, 63, 72, 73, 80, 83, and 93 buses all stop nearby. As with most central Paris landmarks, it’s also reachable on foot, by taxi, or by Vélib’.Opening hours at the Grand Palais vary among events, exhibitions, and museums, though the venue is most often closed on Tuesdays. Be sure to research specific opening times (and book tickets) in advance.The Grand Palais is slated to be host fencing, taekwondo, and other sporting events during the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Situated on the right bank of the Seine River and flanked by the idyllic Tuileries Garden and the grand boulevard of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde is the largest square in Paris. The infamous guillotines of the French Revolution were located here, but today the square is best known for striking monuments, elegant hotels, and elaborate fountains.

Place de la Concorde

Situated on the right bank of the Seine River and flanked by the idyllic Tuileries Garden and the grand boulevard of Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde is the largest square in Paris. The infamous guillotines of the French Revolution were located here, but today the square is best known for striking monuments, elegant hotels, and elaborate fountains.Given its location between the Champs-Élysées and the Louvre, Place de la Concorde is included on many Paris tours. It’s a popular photo spot for open-top bus tours, with views of the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, and the Seine River. A walking tour offers the best photo opportunities, and a bike or Segway tour is a leisurely way to explore the square. You can also admire Place de la Concorde from the water on a Seine cruise.<ul><li>Free Wi-Fi hotspots are located on and around Place de la Concorde.</li><li>The square is a must-see for those interested in revolutionary French history.</li><li>Place de la Concorde is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Located on the right bank of the Seine River in the heart of historic Paris, Place de la Concorde borders the Seine, the Jardin des Tuileries, and the Champs-Élysées. The most scenic way to arrive is on foot, either walking down the Champs-Élysées from the Arc de Triomphe, or strolling through the Tuileries Garden from the Louvre. Alternatively, the closest metro station is Concorde (Lines 1, 8, and 12).Place de la Concorde is one of Paris’ busiest squares, a lively destination at all hours of the day and night. Head there on a sunny afternoon to make the most of the surrounding park, visit during the day to browse the shops along the Champs-lysées, or pass through on a night tour to admire Paris’ nighttime skyline.Dating back to the mid-18th century, the Place de la Concorde was originally named Place Louis XV and featured an imposing equestrian statue of the French king. During the French Revolution, the square was known as Place de la Révolution and famously served as the execution site of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. Today, it’s best known for the gigantic Egyptian obelisk—part of the ancient Ramses II temple of Thebes—towering over its central plaza and its two magnificent fountains: Fontaine des Mers and Fontaine des Fleuves.There are plenty of ways to experience Place de la Concorde. Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:<a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/See-30-Plus-Top-Paris-Sights-in-1-Tour/d479-131689P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour with a Fun Guide</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Bateaux-Parisiens-Seine-River-Cruise-with-Lunch-and-Live-Music/d479-5836LUNCHCRUISE" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch &amp; Sightseeing Cruise</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Paris-City-Segway-Tour/d479-3588SEGWAY01" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris City Sightseeing Half Day Segway Guided Tour</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Gourmet-dinner-cruise-on-the-Seine-river-with-singer-and-DJ-Set/d479-45167P2" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris Gourmet Dinner Seine River Cruise with Singer and DJ Set</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Paris-Bike-Tour/d479-3588PARIS01" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour Like a Parisian with a Local Guide</a>While it’s free to visit Place de la Concorde independently, there are plenty of affordable tours that can help you learn more about the public square. Group bike tours start at about €25, while walking and Segway tours begin around €37. Expect to pay around €80 for Seine river cruise tours.To reach Place de la Concorde via public transportation, take metro lines 1, 8, and 12 to Concorde station, located moments away. Alternatively, take line 12 to Assemblée Nationale, or travel to Invalides via lines 8, 13 or the RER C train. The area is also served by multiple bus routes.Place de la Concorde is located near many of Paris’ most important monuments and landmarks. It is adjacent to the Tuileries Gardens and Musée de l’Orangerie, and marks the beginning of the Champs-Élysées. Across the Seine, it also offers top views of the Assemblée Nationale, Invalides, and Eiffel Tower.Yes, as a flat public square with even pavings, Place de la Concorde is accessible to wheelchair users and those with limited mobility. Conveniently, the landmark also stands in the middle of two of Paris’ highlight attractions—the Tuileries Gardens and Champs-Élysées—both of which are also accessible to wheelchair users.No, you do not need to buy tickets to visit Place de la Concorde. The famous public square is open to all visitors, by day and by night. However, given its history and its location near many of Paris’ other top landmarks, it’s worth exploring on a guided tour.

One of many bridges that cross the Seine, Pont Alexandre III was officially unveiled in 1900. Widely considered the city’s most beautiful and opulent bridge, it connects the Champs-Élysées and Grand Palais on the Right Bank with Invalides on the Left, making it a popular thoroughfare for tour groups and amblers.

Pont Alexandre III

One of many bridges that cross the Seine, Pont Alexandre III was officially unveiled in 1900. Widely considered the city’s most beautiful and opulent bridge, it connects the Champs-Élysées and Grand Palais on the Right Bank with Invalides on the Left, making it a popular thoroughfare for tour groups and amblers.A masterpiece of Beaux-Arts architecture and 19th-century engineering, the highly ornamental Pont Alexandre III was inaugurated at the 1900 World’s Fair. The bridge, built in part to honor the alliance between France and Russia, was named after the Russian Tsar Alexander III. It has been classified as a Historic Monument since 1975.Today, the bridge is renowned for its beauty. Decorated with numerous sculptures and art nouveau lamps, the structure features four carved pillars, each crowned by gilded statues that represent Arts, Science, Industry, and Commerce. In addition to its own good looks, Pont Alexandre III offers exceptional views overlooking the UNESCO-listed Banks of the Seine, the Eiffel Tower, and other key Paris sights. As such, it’s a popular stop on walking, cycling, and Segway tours, and can also be admired during Seine sightseeing cruises.<ul><li>If you’re passing Pont Alexandre III, look for the two nymph reliefs, each located on one side of the bridge: one represents the Nymphs of the Seine, and the other the Nymphs of the Neva.</li><li>The bridge is open to both cars and pedestrians.</li><li>Pont Alexander III’s design was built to resemble the neighboring Grand Palais, which also debuted during the World’s Fair.</li><li>The bridge measures 525 feet (160 meters) and takes just minutes to cross.</li></ul>The centrally located Pont Alexandre III is easily accessible via Métro lines 8 and 13 or the RER C, all of which stop at the nearby Invalides station. Alternatively, you can take bus lines 63, 72, 83, or 93; it’s also reachable on foot, by taxi, or by Vélib’.Pont Alexandre III is beautiful all year round, whether illuminated by sunlight or blanketed softly in snow. Whenever you visit, just be sure to go on an evening stroll, as the art nouveau lamps illuminate it with a soft glow and add a wonderfully romantic ambience.If Pont Alexandre III looks curiously familiar to you, that’s because it’s been a pop culture fixture for decades. The bridge made an appearance during Midnight in Paris, starred in Adele’s music video for “Someone Like You,” had a cameo in the animated Anastasia film, and more.

The Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Toulouse. Spanning the river Garonne, the bridge (whose name actually means &quot;new bridge&quot;) has been part of the city fabric for over 400 years, and is a lasting testament to 16th-century engineering.

Pont Neuf

The Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Toulouse. Spanning the river Garonne, the bridge (whose name actually means &quot;new bridge&quot;) has been part of the city fabric for over 400 years, and is a lasting testament to 16th-century engineering.Planning of the Pont Neuf (also known as Pont de Pierre and Grand Pont) started in 1542, but the bridge was not completely finished until 90 years later, in 1632. It served as one of the main crossing points over the River Garonne in Toulouse, linking the Old Quarter on the right bank with Place St. Cyprien on the left. The bridge is not symmetrical—one arch is wider than the others, which gives it an extra antiquated feel. The bridge can be crossed on foot or by bicycle, and offers an interesting view of the city as well as a chance to explore the banks of the River Garonne. You can join a guided walking or bike tour of the city to learn more about the bridge and its history.<ul><li>Pont Neuf is open to the public year-round.</li><li>The bridge is wheelchair accessible.</li><li>It leads to the Old Quarter of Toulouse, where you’ll find the Saint-Sernin Basilica and Toulouse Cathedral.</li></ul>The Pont Neuf crosses over the River Garonne in the Old Quarter of Toulouse. It's a 10-minute taxi ride or 25-minute walk from Toulouse central train station, and a fixture on the city’s cycle tours.The bridge is open to the public year-round. Toulouse has a mostly temperate, sunny climate. Spring or early autumn temperatures are the most pleasant, since summer can be quite hot.The Garonne River is one of the most important waterways of southwestern France. Sourced in the Spanish Pyrenees, it flows through many important French cities, including Toulouse and Bordeaux. The river has served as an important means of transportation since before Roman times, and also links up with the UNESCO World Heritage Site Canal du Midi. Cycling or walking along it will provide a different perspective on Toulouse.

Paris’ Latin Quarter is a popular, historical area of the Left Bank. Home to the main Sorbonne campus, this dynamic, student-filled neighborhood was once frequented by Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and other revolutionaries. Today it’s distinguished for its buzzing cafés, lively restaurants, and must-see landmarks.

Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin)

Paris’ Latin Quarter is a popular, historical area of the Left Bank. Home to the main Sorbonne campus, this dynamic, student-filled neighborhood was once frequented by Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and other revolutionaries. Today it’s distinguished for its buzzing cafés, lively restaurants, and must-see landmarks.One of the oldest districts in Paris and home to ancient Roman ruins, the Latin Quarter has long fostered a reputation for creativity, intellectual daring, and radical politics. Its name comes from the fact that students here once spoke in Latin; founded in the 13th century, the storied Sorbonne University is still the beating heart of the neighborhood.The area, which stretches across parts of the fifth and sixth arrondissements, is also home to a heavy concentration of destination-worthy attractions. Visitors frequent the Musée de Cluny (which is dedicated to medieval art and holds the world-famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries), snap photos of the Panthéon, and stroll the Jardin du Luxembourg. As for culture, no Latin Quarter visit is complete without browsing the shelves at the storied Shakespeare &amp; Company bookstore, strolling past the bouquinistes (booksellers) along the banks of the Seine, or taking in a live jazz performance. Numerous walking tours, bike tours, hop-on hop-off bus itineraries, and Seine river cruises provide other ways to soak up the area’s one-of-a-kind ambiance.<ul><li>The Latin Quarter is a must for all first-time visitors to Paris, especially literary buffs.</li><li>The area is known for its beautiful churches; Saint-Séverin and Saint-Étienne-du-Mont are both worth a visit.</li><li>See another side of Latin Quarter life when you venture to the Grand Mosquée de Paris. Its café serves delicious fresh mint tea.</li><li>Numerous cafés, restaurants, bars, and clubs abound for all your dining and nightlife needs.</li></ul>There is some debate over the exact boundaries of the neighborhood. Roughly, the Latin Quarter is bounded by Boulevard Saint-Michel to the west, Boulevard du Port-Royal and Boulevard Saint-Marcel to the south and east, and the Seine to the north. The area is served by numerous Métro lines and buses; Saint-Michel station is a good starting point.No matter the time of year, the Latin Quarter is teeming with a buzzing mix of students, locals, and visitors. As with the rest of Paris, it is at its quietest in August. The area is still host to impassioned demonstrations and protests; keep up-to-date with the news if you wish to avoid large crowds. May Day (May 1st) is a particularly popular time for such events.Ignore the quarter’s chain eateries and tourist traps. For a delicious, casual meal and an authentically Parisian experience, head to Rue Mouffetard. Its open-air street market is home to cheese vendors, bakers, fruit sellers, and other purveyors of marvelously tempting treats.

Designed by landscape architect André Le Nôtre—whose other creations include the Palace of Versailles gardens—in the mid-17th century, the UNESCO-listed Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) is Paris’ most visited public park, with a spectacular setting between Champs-Elysées Avenue and the Louvre, on the banks of the Seine River.

Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries)

Designed by landscape architect André Le Nôtre—whose other creations include the Palace of Versailles gardens—in the mid-17th century, the UNESCO-listed Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) is Paris’ most visited public park, with a spectacular setting between Champs-Elysées Avenue and the Louvre, on the banks of the Seine River.A sightseeing tour of Paris isn’t complete without a stroll through the idyllic Tuileries Garden. The park is a stop on many walking and bike tours. Combine a visit with Paris attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, or Montmartre; take a tour of the Musée de l'Orangerie, home to Monet’sWater Lilies; or explore Paris with a private photographer and pose for photos by the park’s ponds and flower beds.<ul><li>Tuileries Garden has three restaurants—La Terrasse de Pomone, Café des Marronniers, and Restaurant Le Médicis.</li><li>There is no admission fee to enter the park.</li><li>The park is fully wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>The Tuileries Garden is located in Paris’ 1st arrondissement on the right bank of the Seine River. Bordered by Quai des Tuileries and Rue de Rivoli, the gardens offer a scenic route between Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées in the west and the Louvre Museum in the east. The closet metro stations are Concorde and Tuileries, both on Line 1.The park is open all year and can get busy, especially on sunny afternoons. If you’re hoping to take photos and enjoy the views free from the crowds, aim for an early morning visit. Head to the park during the Fête des Tuileries summer fairground or enjoy festive illumination at Christmastime.Start your walking tour from the Place du Carrousel, enjoying magnificent views of the Louvre Museum with its iconic glass pyramid. Stroll through the Carousel Gardens, past the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, then explore the tree-lined trails of the Tuileries Garden, stopping along the way to admire the many sculptures by French artist Aristide Maillol. Pause to take in the views by the lake, then continue past the Jeu de Paume gallery and Orangerie Museum to meet Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysées, which stretches all the way to the Arc de Triomphe.There are plenty of ways to experience the Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries). Looking at ratings and reviews previously given by customers, these are the best tours available right now:<a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/See-30-Plus-Top-Paris-Sights-in-1-Tour/d479-131689P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour with a Fun Guide</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Paris-Bike-Tour/d479-3588PARIS01" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour Like a Parisian with a Local Guide</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Sports-fun-and-educational-discovery-of-Paris/d479-173444P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Sports, Fun and Educational Discovery of Paris</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Tour-of-Paris-in-E-bike/d479-87668P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris Sightseeing Family Friendly Guided Electric Bike Tour</a><a href="https://www.viator.com/tours/Paris/Sunrise-Run-and-Sightsee-in-Paris/d479-163251P1" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Sunrise Run &amp; Sightseeing in Paris</a>While it’s free to visit the Tuileries Garden independently, there are plenty of affordable tours that can help you learn more about the public park. Group bike tours start at around €25, Segway tours begin at about €80, while some pay-what-you-want tours cost from just €5.Yes, the Tuileries Garden is located right in the heart of Paris, and the attractive public garden—a worthy tourist destination in its own right—is close to many of the city’s top sights. Nearby attractions include the Louvre, Place de la Concorde, Musée d'Orsay, Jeu de Paume, and the Champs-Élysées.Yes, the Tuileries Garden is accessible to wheelchair users. The gardens are free to access, and have flat, wide trails made of compressed gravel and sand. Service dogs are also permitted in the garden, and there is a disabled restroom on-site.It’s easy to get to the Tuileries Garden using public transportation. Three stations served by metro line 1 are nearby—head to Palais Royal Musée du Louvre, Tuileries, or Concorde. The RER C train also stops right across the Seine at Musée d’Orsay, and buses and taxis frequent the area.There’s no bad time to visit the Tuileries Garden; the public garden looks scenic all year long. That said, dry days in spring and autumn are great times to visit (and beat the summer crowds). You may want to avoid visiting during Paris Fashion Week—taking place biannually in February and September—as the garden regularly hosts fashion shows.

A short train ride from Paris, Giverny is best known as the home of Claude Monet, who created many of his iconic paintings. Head to this tiny, bucolic village to see the impressionist master's beautifully preserved home and gardens. Here you can see the famous water lily pond and Japanese gardens that inspired so many of the world's best-known Monet paintings.

Giverny

A short train ride from Paris, Giverny is best known as the home of Claude Monet, who created many of his iconic paintings. Head to this tiny, bucolic village to see the impressionist master's beautifully preserved home and gardens. Here you can see the famous water lily pond and Japanese gardens that inspired so many of the world's best-known Monet paintings.The most popular way to visit the Monet House and Gardens is by taking a <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Giverny/d479-a571?dynamicFilters=11889" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">day trip to Giverny</a> from <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris/d479" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Paris</a>. Tours generally include visits to the artist's home and garden as well as to the Museum of Impressionism (Musee des Impressionnismes), dedicated to various forms of impressionist painting.While taking a Giverny <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Giverny/d479-a571?dynamicFilters=11928" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">full-day trip</a> from Paris is ideal if you want to immerse yourself in the artist's life, combination options are a good idea for those short on time. Some tours from Paris combine Giverny and Monet's house with a skip-the-line visit to the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Palace-of-Versailles/overview/d479-a581" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Palace of Versailles</a>. Others take travelers to the town of Auvers-sur-Oise, the village in which Vincent van Gogh spent his final days.<ul><li>A Giverny tour is ideal for art enthusiasts, especially impressionism fans.</li><li>The journey to Giverny, along the banks of the <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/River-Seine/overview/d479-a585" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Seine River</a> and through the sunflower fields of Normandy, is almost as good as the destination.</li><li>There are no ATMs or currency exchange bureaus in the village, so be sure to bring cash.</li><li>Although hotels are available, the village's small size means availability is limited, so most people visit on day trips from Paris. Make sure to book in advance if you plan on staying overnight.</li><li>Giverny and Monet's Garden are partly accessible for wheelchair users although Monet's House is not.</li></ul>Giverny is about 45 miles (75 kilometers) from Paris by road. If you're coming by train, catch the SNCF from Paris's <a href="https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Gare-St-Lazare/overview/d479-a17323#overview" class="markdown_inline_link" target="_blank">Gare Saint-Lazare</a> to Vernon on the Paris-Rouen-Le Havre line. From Vernon, you can catch a bus or taxi, or rent a bicycle, to get to the house and garden. The majority of guided tours from Paris include round-trip transportation.Note that Monet's house and the majority of Giverny's restaurants and guesthouses are closed between November and Easter weekend. Although Giverny is very busy in the summer months, large tour groups fail to make the hamlet any less beautiful. Arrive early for the best experience or buy timed Giverny tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.Claude Monet—known for La Grenouillère, the Water Lilies series, and Impressionism, soleil levant—lived in Giverny between 1883 and his death in 1926. He was also the founder of impressionism, with the movement's name deriving from one of his paintings. Fans of his work shouldn't miss the chance to visit his well-preserved house in Giverny.Yes, it is worth visiting Giverny. The Normandy village's best-known landmark is Fondation Claude Monet, where the impressionist artist lived and worked. Visitors can explore his house and gardens and perhaps recognize scenery from his paintings. Giverny is also home to the Museum of Impressionisms (Musée des Impressionnismes).That depends. Tours of Giverny can range from 1.5 hours up to a full day, depending on the type you choose. Full-day tours typically involve round-trip transit from Paris, by car or by train, and may also stop at nearby attractions like Versailles. Shorter tours begin directly in Giverny.Spring is the best time to visit Giverny. It's when the gardens at the Fondation Claude Monet will be in full bloom, and you can admire the water lilies and many other blossoms that Monet immortalized in his canvases. Alternatively, explore in fall to see the gardens with vibrant foliage.If you are visiting the Fondation Claude Monet, you should book your tickets ahead. This busy destination's ticket office is often closed, and the landmark requires advance purchases. It's also a good idea to book Giverny sightseeing tours in advance, as they can be popular in spring and summer.It's wise to set aside at least half a day to explore Giverny—especially if you want to visit multiple sights in one day. Tours of Fondation Claude Monet typically last several hours, and additional time is needed to see the Museum of Impressionisms (Musée des Impressionnismes) and for round-trip travel.If you want to see the Fondation Claude Monet before the crowds set in, arrive right when it opens in the morning. Arriving early also means you'll have the maximum amount of time to see the rest of the village, and the Museum of Impressionisms (Musée des Impressionnismes).

Home to the Paris Opera, ballet performances, and the fictional Phantom of the Opera, the grand 19th-century Palais Garnier—also known as Opéra Garnier—recalls the splendor of France’s Second Empire, an era synonymous with elegance and extravagance. Beyond its opulent exterior and foyer, the 2,000-seat auditorium is a riot of red velvet, gold, and bronze, with a massive chandelier and a colorful ceiling painting by modernist master Marc Chagall.

Palais Garnier

Home to the Paris Opera, ballet performances, and the fictional Phantom of the Opera, the grand 19th-century Palais Garnier—also known as Opéra Garnier—recalls the splendor of France’s Second Empire, an era synonymous with elegance and extravagance. Beyond its opulent exterior and foyer, the 2,000-seat auditorium is a riot of red velvet, gold, and bronze, with a massive chandelier and a colorful ceiling painting by modernist master Marc Chagall.With its gilding, grandeur, and lavish ornamentation, Palais Garnier is often compared to the Palace of Versailles. While you can admire the beaux-arts and neo-baroque structure, designed by architect Charles Garnier, from the outside on Paris sightseeing tours, it’s also possible to see the interior by attending a performance or taking a self-guided audio tour or a guided tour of the venue. Book an after-hours tour to explore the Palais Garnier without the crowds. You can also combine a tour of Palais Garnier with visits to other nearby architectural gems, such as the historic Galeries Lafayette department store and the passages couverts (covered shopping galleries).<ul><li>The on-site restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner; the bar inside the theater sells drinks before performances and during intermissions.</li><li>Operas are usually performed in their original language, with French (and sometimes English) supertitles.</li><li>While no official dress code is enforced for regular performances, most operagoers dress smartly. For special gala events, attendees wear more formal attire.</li></ul>Palais Garnier is in the Opéra and Grands Boulevards area, one of Paris’ shopping hot spots. The Opéra station, just across the street from the venue, can be accessed by Metro lines 3, 7, and 8, while lines 7 and 9 serve the nearby Chaussée d’Antin–La Fayette station. Alternatively, take the RER A line to Auber station.Palais Garnier tours are held daily throughout the year and are most popular during the summer. To escape the crowds, book an after-hours tour, which allows you to see the quiet corridors and hushed auditorium without the daytime crowds. Note that access to the auditorium is dependent on availability; for the best chance of seeing it, opt for a morning tour, as rehearsals typically take place in the afternoon.The interior’s standout features are the fresco- and gold-adorned Grand Foyer, the bronze Pythonisse sculpture, and the imposing Grand Staircase (Grand Escalier). Auditorium highlights include the 2,600-square-foot (241-square-meter) ceiling painting by Marc Chagall, in the center of which hangs an enormous crystal and bronze chandelier that inspired the dramatic chandelier drop in Gaston Leroux’s Phantom of the Opera.A self-guided tour of Palais Garnier costs €15 for most adults, €10 for reduced tickets, and is free for under-12s and the unemployed. Themed guided tours cost €23 for adults, €16.50 for reduced tickets, and €10 for under-10s. Tickets to operas, ballets, and concerts range from €35 to €300.Yes, you need a ticket to visit the Palais Garnier on a self-guided tour, a guided tour, or to see a show. It’s open for tours daily, 10am–5pm, except when there are afternoon performances or other occasional closures. The performance hall is often not open except for ticketed events.Yes, there are two ways to take a tour of the Palais Garnier. You can take a self-guided tour of the public areas, when you’ll also have access to any temporary exhibits. You can also take guided tours that focus on different areas of the building and tell different stories.Yes, a tour of the Palais Garnier is worth it, especially for travelers who are interested in the arts, architecture, history, and design. The opulent theater and concert hall is considered one of Paris’ most beautiful buildings, inside and outside, and a tour is well worth the time and cost.Guided group tours of Palais Garnier take between 75 and 90 minutes. Allow up to two hours to see the public areas on a self-guided tour. While you can’t visit as many parts of the building on an independent tour, you can take time to pause and appreciate your surroundings.Not exactly. There is no dress code to tour the Palais Garnier, and you can wear normal clothes to take an independent or guided tour. There is no strict dress code for performances, but “proper attire” is required. For gala events, dark suits or dresses are the standard.

The Arc de Triomphe looks down upon the grand tree-lined boulevard that is Avenue des Champs-Élysées: one of Paris’ most memorable sights and one of the world’s most famous avenues. It’s not just the striking architecture that captivates visitors—the shopping street is lined with designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and fine restaurants.

Avenue des Champs-Élysées

The Arc de Triomphe looks down upon the grand tree-lined boulevard that is Avenue des Champs-Élysées: one of Paris’ most memorable sights and one of the world’s most famous avenues. It’s not just the striking architecture that captivates visitors—the shopping street is lined with designer boutiques, luxury hotels, and fine restaurants.No Paris sightseeing tour is complete without visiting Avenue des Champs-Élysées, and the best way to soak up the atmosphere is on foot. Opt for a guided small-group or private walking tour, admire the illuminations on an evening city excursion, or visit independently on a Paris hop-on, hop-off bus tour. Alternatively, discover Paris’ most beautiful boulevard on a bike or Segway tour, a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride, or from the passenger seat of a classic French 2CV car.<ul><li>Wear comfortable walking shoes—it takes at least 30 minutes to walk from one end of the boulevard to the other.</li><li>Paris’ main tourist information center is located along the Champs-Élysées, close to the Arc de Triomphe.</li><li>The Champs-Élysées is wheelchair accessible, as are many of the shops and restaurants along the boulevard.</li></ul>Avenue des Champs-Élysées stretches 1.3 miles (2 km) through the heart of Paris’ 8th arrondissement, from the Arc de Triomphe on Place Charles de Gaulle all the way to Place de la Concorde on the banks of the Seine River. Metro stations located along the Champs-Élysées include (from north to south) Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile (Line 1), George V (Line 1), Franklin Roosevelt (lines 1 and 9), ChampsÉlysees-Clemenceau (lines 1 and 13), and Concorde (lines 1, 8, and 12).As one of Paris’ busiest thoroughfares, the Champs-Élysées attracts crowds at all hours. Shoppers wanting to dodge the crush are advised to avoid weekends and holidays, while those driving should stay away from the morning and evening rush hours. The most dazzling views are found after dark, when the boulevard is spectacularly illuminated.The Champs-Élysées is also an integral part of Parisian celebrations, and some of the most memorable visits are timed to see the incredible Christmas light displays, the annual Bastille Day military parade, or the grand finish of the Tour de France.A great number of Paris highlights are located on and around the Champs-Élysées, starting with the imposing Arc de Triomphe. After taking in the views from the 19th-century monument, stroll past Charles De Gaulle’s statue, Grand Palais, and Petit Palais to Place de la Concorde, with its beautiful fountains and Egyptian obelisk. For an extended tour, continue through the idyllic Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) along the right bank of the Seine River until you reach the Louvre museum, Palais Royal, and the Pont des Arts pedestrian bridge that crosses the Seine.The Avenue des Champs-Élysées’ dates all the way back to the late 17th century, when it was originally laid out by landscape architect André Le Nôtre, who also designed the gardens at the Palace of Versailles. Over time, the area became built up and populated with shops, restaurants, and theaters.The Champs-Élysées begins at the Place de la Concorde and ends at the Arc de Triomphe. The grand avenue passes other memorable landmarks, including the Petit Palais and Grand Palais, the Jardins des Champs-Élysées, and numerous historic theaters.A number of major events take place along the Champs-Élysées every year. Two of the best known are the Tour de France—the last stage is traditionally held on the avenue— and Bastille Day, when a grand military parade is held. The avenue is also a popular destination during the festive season.The Metro offers the easiest way to get to the Champs-Élysées. Metro stations located along the avenue are Champs-Élysées-Clemenceau (lines 1 and 13), Concorde (lines 1, 8, and 12), Franklin D. Roosevelt (lines 1 and 9), Charles-de-Gaulle Etoile (line 1), and George V (line 1).The Champs-Élysées measures 1.17 miles (1.88 kilometers) long, so you’ll want to set aside a decent amount of time if you plan to walk from one end to the other. The avenue is historically divided into two halves by the traffic circle near Franklin D. Roosevelt station.The Champs-Élysées has long been celebrated as one of Paris’ top shopping destinations. If you plan to browse, head to the Galeries Lafayette, perhaps the city’s most famous department store; venture to flagship locations for French fashion houses, including Cartier, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, and Guerlain; and explore many other international brands that have shops along the boulevard.

With its gigantic dome and snow-white facade gazing down over the city from the Butte de Montmartre (Montmartre Hill), the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur—or Basilica of the Sacred Heart—is one of Paris’ most magnificent monuments.

Basilique du Sacré-Coeur

With its gigantic dome and snow-white facade gazing down over the city from the Butte de Montmartre (Montmartre Hill), the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur—or Basilica of the Sacred Heart—is one of Paris’ most magnificent monuments.There are several options for exploring the grand basilica. See it as part of a Paris city tour or on a walking tour of the atmospheric Montmartre neighborhood. You can also book a guided tour of the lavish interiors to see highlights such as the apse mosaic, the grand organ, and the crypt. Visitors can also climb the 234-step spiral staircase to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the entire city, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.<ul><li>Access to the basilica is free, but you’ll have to pay an admission fee to visit the Dome.</li><li>There are no official guided tours of the basilica as it is a place of silent prayer.</li><li>There is a step-free entrance at the back of the basilica, and the church is wheelchair accessible except for the dome and the crypt.</li></ul>The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is located on Rue du Chevalier de la Barre in the Montmartre district of Paris. To get there by metro, take line 2 to Anvers station, then walk up Montmartre hill or ride the funicular.The basilica is open daily all year round, but it can get crowded in peak season, so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds. For budding photographers wanting to capture the views, the most flattering light happens just before sunset, although note that it can be busy at this time.The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is one of the most memorable sights of Montmartre, but the bohemian ‘village’ has plenty of other attractions. A walking tour means you can explore like a local, stopping by famous landmarks such as the Moulin Rouge and the Artists’ Square; follow in the footsteps of artists like van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso; and explore the many shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafés.Sacré-Coeur Basilica is one of Paris’ most recognizable (and most-visited) religious landmarks. Located in the 18th arrondissement in the north of the city, in Paris’ bohemian (and hilly) Montmartre neighborhood, it can be seen from far and wide. And in turn, it offers some of the best panoramic views of Paris.Although Sacré-Coeur feels like it’s been part of Paris forever, it’s a relatively new addition to the city. Built in 1875 following the devastation of the Franco-Prussian War, the basilica was completed in 1914 and finally consecrated in 1919, after the end of World War I.To get to Sacré-Coeur Basilica via public transportation, take Métro line 2 to Anvers station, located at the base of Montmartre hill. While you can climb up to the basilica, the more straightforward route is to take the funicular to the top with a basic Métro ticket.No, Sacré-Coeur is free for all to visit, and you do not need to book tickets to head inside (though you may need to wait in line, depending on how crowded it is). However, you do need to pay to access its dome, which offers pristine 360° views of Paris.Yes, there is a dress code at Sacré-Coeur. As it’s an active church with at least four services daily, visitors are asked to dress respectfully, with their knees and shoulders covered. Additionally, visitors should remain silent, avoid talking on the phone, and refrain from taking photos in the nave to respect worshipers.Yes. Sacré-Coeur is open daily from early morning until late evening. To avoid the worst crowds, it’s recommended to visit early in the day. Weekends, holidays, and the summer months are also likely to be very crowded, and sunset can be an especially busy time to visit.

Glass-sheathed, modern towers house a world-class book collection at the French National Library in Paris. More than 15 million volumes are here, including royal book collections that date back to the Middle Ages, and the library hosts rotating exhibitions that range from artistic masterpieces to historic manuscripts and artifacts.

French National Library (Bibliotheque Nationale de France)

Glass-sheathed, modern towers house a world-class book collection at the French National Library in Paris. More than 15 million volumes are here, including royal book collections that date back to the Middle Ages, and the library hosts rotating exhibitions that range from artistic masterpieces to historic manuscripts and artifacts.Designed to evoke books standing near the Seine, the French National Library (Bibliothèque Nationale de France) has two main sections: a public library and a research library. Admission is charged at both, but exhibition tickets include access to the public reading rooms. Lunch and dinner cruises on the river Seine pass by the library, as do half-day bicycle tours that focus on food markets. It’s also possible to visit the library independently.<ul><li>The French National Library is a must for those interested in architecture.</li><li>The library has free Wi-Fi and computers for public use, as well as an on-site café and restaurant.</li><li>Library tours are sometimes available in English.</li><li>A coat check is available on-site, but bags must be carry-on size or smaller.</li></ul>The French National Library is located on Quai François Mauriac in the 13th arrondissement, across the Seine from the Parc de Bercy. To get there by public transit, take Metro line 6 or 14 or the RER C to Bibliothèque François Mitterrand. If you’re exploring Paris on foot, the most dramatic approach to the French National Library is from the pedestrian bridge Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir, which links the library to the Parc de Bercy.Visit the French National Library’s public reading rooms Tuesday through Saturday from 10am to 8pm (exhibits close at 7pm) and Sunday from 1pm to 7pm. Entrance fees to the public reading rooms are waived from 5pm to 8pm.The four towers—the standing “books”—that make up the French National Library are eye-catching, but there’s far more to the site than can be seen from a distance. Reading rooms look down on a forest garden of birches, oaks, and other trees, including full-size pine trees from Normandy. Since the forest was installed in 1994, it’s become a haven for birds in the city.

With its maze of cobbled lanes and medieval buildings sprawling along the banks of the Seine River, the historic district of Le Marais is one of Paris’ most atmospheric, with a lively Jewish Quarter, a great selection of museums and art galleries, and a thriving LGBTQ community.

Le Marais

With its maze of cobbled lanes and medieval buildings sprawling along the banks of the Seine River, the historic district of Le Marais is one of Paris’ most atmospheric, with a lively Jewish Quarter, a great selection of museums and art galleries, and a thriving LGBTQ community.The best way to explore Le Marais is on foot; a walking tour or bike tour will take in the highlights, from the main square of Place des Vosges to the Pletzl, or the Jewish Quarter, of Rue des Rosiers. Alternatively, visit as part of a Paris tour that also neighborhoods such as Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.<ul><li>Wear comfy shoes—the district is full of cobblestone lanes and steps.</li><li>Free Wi-Fi hotspots are located around Le Marais.</li><li>Many shops and restaurants in Le Marais are open on Sundays, but it’s worth checking ahead.</li></ul>Le Marais is located in Paris’ 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the Right Bank of the Seine River. Situated just across from the Ile de la Cité, the neighborhood is also a short walk from Notre Dame Cathedral. The closest Metro stations are Hôtel de Ville (Lines 1 and 11), Chemin Vert (Line 8), and Saint-Paul (Line 1).Le Marais is a lively place any day of the week, but many museums are closed on Mondays. The quietest time for shopping and sightseeing is on weekday mornings (many shops don’t open until 9am or 10am, so don’t arrive too early), but the neighborhood is most atmospheric at night, when the bars and restaurants are filled.While art lovers come to Le Marais to admire bold street art and visit the Picasso Museum, other points of interest include the Maison Européenne de la Photographie, the Musée Cognacq-Jay, and the Le Centre Pompidou in the neighboring Beaubourg district. Also worth a visit is the Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature (hunting museum), the Musée Carnavalet (city history museum), the Maison de Victor Hugo, and the Musée des Arts and Métiers.

An island at the center of Paris, Île de la Cité is the site where the Parisii tribe of the Sequana river, now known as the Seine, first settled. Centuries later, that primitive village has given way to some of the city’s most stunning attractions, from the Palais de Justice and Sainte-Chapelle to La Conciergerie and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Île de la Cité

An island at the center of Paris, Île de la Cité is the site where the Parisii tribe of the Sequana river, now known as the Seine, first settled. Centuries later, that primitive village has given way to some of the city’s most stunning attractions, from the Palais de Justice and Sainte-Chapelle to La Conciergerie and Notre-Dame Cathedral.Île de la Cité has been inhabited since the first century BC. It wasn’t until the early 17th century, that this unusual little island started to take its modern shape, spurred on by the construction of the Pont Neuf that spans the entirety of the Seine. Travelers have myriad options to explore the island on its own or as part of a half-day, full-day, group or private, walking or cycling tour that includes some of the city’s most exciting attractions.<ul><li>Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families.</li><li>Tours may include guide, round trip hotel transport, but not food or drink.</li><li>Check specific tours for details.</li><li>During the summer especially, bring your sun protection and water for hydration.
*Wear comfortable shoes since Paris is one of the most walkable cities in the world.</li></ul>Île de la Cité is at the center of Paris and is easy to reach from all points by taxi or the Métro. From the Left Bank, take line 4 to Saint-Michel, and from the Right Bank, take lines 1, 4, 7, 11 or 14 to Châtelet and walk over Pont Neuf to the island. There’s also the only stop (Cité) on the island itself via line 4.Paris is a place of wonder and beauty at any time of the year, as each season brings its own charms. The best weather is from late spring through early fall, May through September. Deals on hotels may be found during the winter and early spring months. Festivals abound year-round; highlights include Bastille Day in July, and the springtime jazz and blues festival, Banlieues Bleues, and the summertime city-wide music festival, Paris, Quartier d’Été.The teardrop-shaped Île de la Cité holds many varied treasures:xa0 Notre-Dame Cathedral, famous for its stained-glass rose window, flying buttresses, and twin towers; the Deportation Memorial, dedicated to the French deported to Nazi concentration camps during WWII; and the Palais de Justice where St. Chapelle, arguably Paris’s most beautiful church is tucked away;. Come during the day to see the sun stream through the walls of fiery-colored stained glass.

Built by King Louis IX to house a relic of the crown of thorns—now kept at nearby Notre Dame Cathedral—the 13th-century Sainte Chapelle is renowned for its striking Gothic architecture and some of the most exquisite stained glass windows in Europe.

Sainte Chapelle

Built by King Louis IX to house a relic of the crown of thorns—now kept at nearby Notre Dame Cathedral—the 13th-century Sainte Chapelle is renowned for its striking Gothic architecture and some of the most exquisite stained glass windows in Europe.The Sainte Chapelle is part of the Palais de la Cité, and entrance is included with the Paris Museum Pass. Visitors can purchase a combination ticket including skip-the-line access to both the chapel and the adjoining La Conciergerie, where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned.Official Sainte Chapelle tours are conducted in French only, so book a group or private tour if you want to explore the chapel with a guide. For the best value, opt for a walking tour of the Île de la Cité, which includes visits to other attractions such as the towers of Notre Dame or a Seine River cruise.<ul><li>All visitors must go through a security check. Large bags are not allowed inside.</li><li>Audio guides are available in 11 different languages.</li><li>Most areas of the Sainte Chapelle are wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Sainte Chapelle is located on the Boulevard du Palais, on the Île de la Cité in the middle of the Seine River. It’s a short walk from nearby Notre Dame Cathedral, and the closest metro station is Cité (Line 4). Alternatively, ride the RER or metro (Line 4) to St.-Michel Notre-Dame and walk across the Pont Saint-Michel.The Sainte Chapelle is open daily year-round, but it can get crowded in peak season, so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds. The most impressive time to admire the stained glass windows is in the morning or late afternoon, when the sun shines directly through the glass.The magnificent Upper Chapel is the star attraction of the Sainte Chapelle. It’s encircled by 15 gigantic stained glass windows, each towering 49 feet (15 meters) high, which depict 1,113 scenes from the Old and New Testaments. The 13th-century artworks have been painstakingly restored and are joined by the 15th-century Rose Window to create a dramatic effect, bathing the chapel in multicolored light.Yes, tickets are necessary for entry into Sainte-Chapelle in Paris. As a popular tourist destination, tickets sell quickly, so it’s essential to reserve yours online ahead of your visit. People with disabilities and children under 18 enjoy free admission. However, they still must book a time slot in advance.Yes, Sainte-Chapelle is worth visiting. Its spectacular stained glass windows, intricate Gothic architecture, and historical significance make it one of Paris’ most captivating gems. Witnessing the play of light through intricate designs is an experience that offers a profound appreciation for its beauty and artistry, regardless of your interest in history.The morning hours are ideal for visiting Sainte-Chapelle. Arriving early allows you to enjoy the serene ambiance and the vibrant colors of its stained glass windows in natural light. Book your time slot in advance to ensure a peaceful and immersive experience before the crowds arrive later in the day.No, there is no dress code for Sainte-Chapelle. The chapel has transformed into a museum and no longer hosts religious services. Nonetheless, it maintains its spiritual importance for many individuals. It's a good idea for visitors to opt for modest attire and remove hats while wandering through the interior.The compact yet awe-inspiring interior of Sainte-Chapelle allows visitors to appreciate its stunning stained glass windows and intricate details within a relatively short visit. Walking through Sainte-Chapelle typically takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on crowd size and your personal interest in the more than one thousand scenes depicted in the stained glass.Yes, photography is permitted inside Sainte-Chapelle. Guests can freely capture the beauty of the chapel’s 1,113 stained-glass windows and Gothic architectural details. Remember to be considerate of the sacred space and fellow visitors, ensuring a respectful and immersive experience of this spectacular Parisian marvel.

The smaller companion to the neighboring Grand Palais, the aptly named Petit Palais is both an art venue and an architectural landmark. Like the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais was originally built for the World’s Fair in 1900. Today, it houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris (the Fine Arts Museum of the City of Paris).

Petit Palais

The smaller companion to the neighboring Grand Palais, the aptly named Petit Palais is both an art venue and an architectural landmark. Like the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais was originally built for the World’s Fair in 1900. Today, it houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris (the Fine Arts Museum of the City of Paris).A designated Historic Monument since 1975, the opulent Petit Palais is recognizable for its Beaux-Arts design; its grand, arched entryway; and the detailed sculptures that embellish its facade. Built alongside the Grand Palais and the Pont Alexandre III in time for the 1900 World’s Fair, it is regarded as a Parisian architectural highlight. Today, the palace houses the Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris, which contains thousands of works that span from ancient times to the present day.The Petit Palais can be glimpsed during Seine River cruises as well as hop-on hop-off bus tours, bike tours, Segway tours, and more. Book a private walking tour to explore the area further; you can also visit the museum’s galleries independently.<ul><li>The Petit Palais’ elegant garden cafe offers a tranquil, hidden escape from the urban bustle.</li><li>The museum’s permanent collections are free.</li><li>An on-site auditorium hosts a regular schedule of talks, musical performances, and other special events.</li></ul>The nearest Métro stop to the Petit Palais is Champs-Élysées - Clemenceau, which is served by lines 1 and 13. You can also take lines 8 and 13 (or the RER C) to the Invalides stop, which is located just across the Seine. Bus lines 28, 42, 72, 73, 83, and 93 all stop nearby. Thanks to its central location, the venue is also easily accessible on foot, by taxi, or by Vélib’.The Musée des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris is open from 10am–6pm, Tuesday–Sunday, and is open until 9pm on Friday evenings while temporary exhibitions are on display.The museum’s wide-ranging collection spans thousands of years and includes thousands of works. Seek out etchings by Dürer, canvases by Cézanne and Monet, paintings by Rembrandt and Delacroix, sculptures and ceramics from antiquity, and more.

Crazy Horse cabaret’s burlesque-style show celebrates femininity and the art of seduction, with elaborately choreographed routines performed by dancers wearing custom-made red-soled Louboutins, bob wigs, bright red lipstick—and often little else. Avant-garde artist Alain Bernardin established the intimate underground venue in 1951.

Crazy Horse Cabaret

Crazy Horse cabaret’s burlesque-style show celebrates femininity and the art of seduction, with elaborately choreographed routines performed by dancers wearing custom-made red-soled Louboutins, bob wigs, bright red lipstick—and often little else. Avant-garde artist Alain Bernardin established the intimate underground venue in 1951.During the cabaret’s 90-minute Totally Crazy show, you'll see classic routines, including the Philippe Decouflé–choreographed Crazy Horse Guards with bearskin hats and skimpy royal guard uniforms. The venue also hosts newer acts created by the likes of Dita Von Teese and Ali Mahdavi. Book show tickets in advance and upgrade your experience to include VIP extras such as Champagne and appetizers. Or, pair a visit with dinner at the nearby art deco brasserie, Chez Francis.<ul><li>Dress respectably. Ties and jackets are not required, but shorts, sneakers, and sportswear are not allowed.</li><li>Performances contain partial nudity and may not be suitable for kids.</li><li>For the ultimate indulgence, splurge on a private VIP booth to sip Champagne and snack on caviar during the show.</li><li>Seats are not reservable; they are assigned and allocated on the night of the show.</li><li>The Crazy Horse is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>The Crazy Horse de Paris venue is on Avenue George V near the Champs-Élysées. Both the bus (lines 42, 63, 72, 80, and 92) and the Metro (line 9) connect to the nearby Alma–Marceau station. Alternatively, take the RER C line to Pont de l’Alma or the RER A line to Charles de Gaulle–Étoile.Shows take place at 8:30pm and 11pm, Sunday–Friday. On Saturday, there are three performances at 7pm, 9:30pm, and 12am. Arrive early to catch the preshow burlesque act, which begins 30 minutes before the main performance.Paris is home to several legendary cabaret venues, and choosing between the two most renowned—Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse de Paris—can be difficult. If you want Las Vegas–style acts and fanfare and to see the world-famous cancan, Moulin Rouge is the cabaret for you. Crazy Horse, meanwhile, offers artistic and slightly racier performances in a smaller, more intimate setting.

The Pont des Arts—also known as the Passerelle des Arts—is one of central Paris’ most romantic bridges. Famed for the “love locks” that couples once clipped to its railings, the bridge has shed some weight in recent years, but not its amorous associations. These days, the pedestrian-friendly bridge is perfect for sightseeing or picnicking.

Pont des Arts

The Pont des Arts—also known as the Passerelle des Arts—is one of central Paris’ most romantic bridges. Famed for the “love locks” that couples once clipped to its railings, the bridge has shed some weight in recent years, but not its amorous associations. These days, the pedestrian-friendly bridge is perfect for sightseeing or picnicking.Built in the early 19th century during Napoleon’s reign, the Pont des Arts—which links the Louvre on the right bank with the Institut de France on the left—was the first iron bridge to cross the Seine. Following damage sustained during the World Wars, plus accidental boat collisions, the bridge was rebuilt in the 1970s following the original design. The Pont des Arts is fully pedestrianized, making it a popular destination among both locals and tourists for sightseeing, relaxing, and soaking up the scenery.It’s easy to spot the Pont des Arts on Seine river cruises, as well as walking tours, hop-on hop-off bus journeys, bike itineraries, and other explorations around the French capital. As the bridge links several key Paris landmarks, it’s also simple to include it during an independent day of sightseeing.<ul><li>Be sure to bring your camera: thanks to its proximity to numerous top attractions, the Pont des Arts offers a perfect vantage point for photographers.</li><li>The Pont des Arts is a symbol of the city, and has played a role in numerous films, songs, and even Paris-themed novels.</li><li>The bridge is part of the Bank of the Seine UNESCO World Heritage Site.</li></ul>The nearest Métro station to the Pont des Arts is Louvre–Rivoli, on line 1. Alternatively, bus lines 21, 24, 27, 69, 72, 76, 81, and 85 serve the landmark. It can also be seen during boat tours, though it is best appreciated on foot.The Pont des Arts is open day and night, and it’s rare to find the bridge without convivial clusters of friends or lovestruck couples. Occasional exhibitions are held on the bridge, but—barring severe weather days—there’s rarely a bad time to visit.Despite its rich history, the Pont des Arts is arguably best known for the “love locks” that couples clipped to its panels. Beginning around 2008, the tradition saw the bridge accumulate roughly 1 million locks—45 tons’ worth—before they were finally removed in 2015 to prevent further damage to the landmark. Colorful pieces by various street artists replaced the locks, and the bridge is still considered a romantic destination today.

Poised overlooking the Seine, the Palais Bourbon dates to 1722. Originally built for the Duchesse de Bourbon (a daughter of King Louis XIV), the Palais Bourbon has been used to house legislative bodies, including the French National Assembly—the lower house of the French Parliament—since the end of the 18th century.

Palais Bourbon

Poised overlooking the Seine, the Palais Bourbon dates to 1722. Originally built for the Duchesse de Bourbon (a daughter of King Louis XIV), the Palais Bourbon has been used to house legislative bodies, including the French National Assembly—the lower house of the French Parliament—since the end of the 18th century.Designed by a series of celebrated architects (including Giardini, Aubert, and Gabriel) and inspired by Versailles’ Grand Trianon, the Palais Bourbon was initially created as an opulent royal residence. Seized during the French Revolution and declared a “palace of the people” in 1781, it has hosted French legislative bodies, from the Council of 500 to the National Assembly (Assemblée Nationale), for centuries. In 1806, the building’s recognizable, classical colonnade was added under Napoleon’s orders, while celebrated painter Eugène Delacroix contributed murals to several rooms.Today, the French National Assembly features on historical Paris tours and can also be viewed from the water’s edge during Seine river cruises.<ul><li>The French National Assembly is host to various contemporary art installations, including theSphere of Human Rights by sculptor Walter de Maria.</li><li>While its colonnade is the Palais Bourbon’s most recognizable feature, its elegant Court of Honor (Cour d’Honneur) is its main entrance and features numerous sculptures.</li><li>In addition to its main government rooms, the French National Assembly boasts a number of highly decorative salons, as well as an ornate library.</li></ul>Located as it is in central Paris, the French National Assembly can be reached via multiple forms of transit. Take Metro line 12 to Assemblée Nationale station, take the RER C to Invalides, or use bus line 24, 63, 73, 83, 84, 93, or 94. The landmark can also be reached on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.The Palais Bourbon is open Monday–Saturday. It is, however, currently closed to individual visitors. Groups wishing to visit must be invited by a National Assembly delegate. Given its proximity to other major landmarks, including Invalides, the Place de la Concorde, and the Tuileries Garden, it is still worth stopping by to admire its opulent exterior.Though it is less well known than the neighboring Palais Bourbon, the Hôtel de Lassay—part of the same palace complex and designed contemporaneously—is another landmark worth discovering. Home to the President of the National Assembly, the building was initially built for the Marquis de Lassay: the Duchesse de Bourbon’s lover.

An architecturally and politically important building, the Hôtel de Ville in Paris has housed various government bodies since the 14th century; it’s currently home to Paris’ mayor and city council. The landmark is famed for its decorative facade and well-appointed interiors, and it also hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Hotel de Ville

An architecturally and politically important building, the Hôtel de Ville in Paris has housed various government bodies since the 14th century; it’s currently home to Paris’ mayor and city council. The landmark is famed for its decorative facade and well-appointed interiors, and it also hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.Hôtel de Ville—the Paris City Hall—dates to 1357. Initially housed in Maison aux Piliers, the landmark was rebuilt and expanded between 1533 and 1628. Considered a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, that building was burned to the ground by the Paris Commune government. Following a period of renovation that lasted from 1873 to 1892, its facade was reconstructed and its interiors redesigned.Today, the monument is home to some of the city’s most important government offices, including Paris city council and the mayor of Paris. It can be seen on hop-on hop-off bus tours, as well as on bike and walking tours. Given its location on the Seine, Hôtel de Ville can also be admired on river cruises.<ul><li>Individual visits to the monument are currently suspended, though tour groups can file an application, preferably two months in advance.</li><li>The building is outfitted with elevators, disabled bathrooms, and other features that make it accessible to visitors with limited mobility.</li><li>Though much of the landmark is closed to individual visitors, Hôtel de Ville opens its doors during European Heritage Days, held each September.</li></ul>Located in the Fourth Arrondissement, the Hôtel de Ville Métro station—served by lines 1 and 11—is just steps away from the monument, while the Châtelet – Les Halles station (served by lines 1, 4, 7, 11, and 14, as well as the RER A, B, and D), is less than a 10-minute walk away. Alternatively, take bus lines 38, 47, 67, 69, 70, 72, 74, 75, 76, 85, or 96.The Hôtel de Ville is currently best seen from the outside, as only planned group tours can enter. The interior is open to these groups every day except Sundays and bank holidays. It often hosts free Paris–themed temporary exhibitions and comes alive during the festive season with its annual outdoor Christmas market.Although the landmark is only open to planned group tours, the interior is worth seeing as it’s filled with elegant murals painted by prominent 19th-century artists. The landmark is also famed for its extravagant function room, designed to resemble Versailles’ Hall of Mirrors.

An expansive green space that stretches between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire (Military School), the Champ de Mars has been an important public park since the 18th century. Key episodes of the French Revolution took place here, as did several World’s Fairs. Today, it’s a popular stop for relaxing and sightseeing.

Champs de Mars

An expansive green space that stretches between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire (Military School), the Champ de Mars has been an important public park since the 18th century. Key episodes of the French Revolution took place here, as did several World’s Fairs. Today, it’s a popular stop for relaxing and sightseeing.The Champ de Mars—Mars’ Field—was originally named after the God of War, and it does have a bloody history. First used for training drills hosted by the École Militaire, it was also the site of an infamous massacre and numerous violent episodes during the French Revolution. Today, the riverside site has a far more tranquil reputation, thanks in part to the Wall for Peace, a symbolic monument that has stood on the site since 2000. Given its proximity to the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars draws large groups of tourists, but it’s also popular among local picnickers and families looking to relax amid the greenery.Unsurprisingly, the Champ de Mars is most frequently discovered during visits to the Eiffel Tower, but you can also glimpse it on a river cruise down the Seine, a hop-on hop-off bus tour, a Segway and bike tour, and other jaunts around town.<ul><li>Head to the Champ de Mars after sunset to enjoy an up-close perspective on the Eiffel Tower’s nightly light show.</li><li>The park’s ground-level paths are largely wheelchair-accessible.</li><li>Playgrounds, fountains, monuments, and even a hand-cranked carousel are all hosted on-site.</li></ul>For easy access to Champ de Mars, take the Métro line 8 to the École Militaire stop. The park can also be reached via the Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel station, which is served by the RER C. Alternatively, take bus lines 42, 69, 82, or 87, or walk, drive, or hop on a Vélib’ bike.The Champ de Mar, which is free and always open, is a popular Paris destination throughout the year. The park hosts a number of popular annual events, from Bastille Day and New Year’s Eve celebrations to Christmas markets and athletic tournaments.Like many iconic Paris landmarks, the Champ de Mars will take on hosting duties during the 2024 Paris Olympics. Beach volleyball tournaments will be held here during the Olympics and boccia—a game that’s similar to bocce—will be held here as part of the Paralympics.

Built under the orders of Louis XIV beginning in 1670, Les Invalides—also known as the Hôtel National des Invalides—was created as a hospital and care facility for wounded war veterans. Today, the site still serves that purpose, though the sprawling complex also comprises several museums, numerous courtyards, and Paris’ tallest dome.

Les Invalides

Built under the orders of Louis XIV beginning in 1670, Les Invalides—also known as the Hôtel National des Invalides—was created as a hospital and care facility for wounded war veterans. Today, the site still serves that purpose, though the sprawling complex also comprises several museums, numerous courtyards, and Paris’ tallest dome.Located in the seventh arrondissement, Les Invalides is one of Paris’ most recognizable landmarks, and welcomes millions of visitors each year. In addition to its practical functions, the complex also contains three museums: the Musée de l’Armée (one of the world’s biggest collections dedicated to military history and art), the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (which contains historical models of fortified cities), and the Musée de l’Ordre de la Libération (a small museum that explores the French Resistance during World War II).The jewel of Les Invalides is the Dôme des Invalides, which was inspired by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Considered a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, the church’s gilded dome is, at 351 feet (107 meters) high, the loftiest in Paris. Within, the church houses the tombs of notable figures—most famously that of Napoleon Bonaparte. For those looking to explore further, Les Invalides is a frequent stop on hop-on hop-off bus tours; walking tour itineraries, meanwhile, make it simpler to navigate the enormous site, and also frequently include skip-the-line privileges.<ul><li>A Les Invalides ticket includes entry to the Dôme (and the Tomb of Napoleon), the Saint-Louis Cathedral, the Charles de Gaulle Monument, and all three museums.</li><li>In addition to its permanent collection, the Musée de l’Armée also hosts temporary exhibitions.</li><li>Les Invalides is a popular destination for architecture lovers and history buffs, particularly those who are fascinated by military history.</li></ul>Visitors can take Métro lines 8 or 13, or the RER C, to the Invalides stop. Les Invalides is also easily accessible on foot from other nearby attractions, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay.The Invalides complex is open daily from 7am–7:30pm (except on Tuesdays from April–September, when it closes at 9pm). Individual museums and on-site attractions have a range of visiting hours (and holiday closures), so be sure to research opening times in advance. Les Invalides also hosts and participates in a number of events throughout the year, including the International Automobile Festival, Nuit Blanche, Night at Les Invalides, concerts and film screenings, and more.Les Invalides played an important role in the French Revolution: a mob stormed the site and took thousands of weapons, including guns and cannons, before continuing onward to the Bastille.

Servicing over 700,000 passengers every day (for a total of 190 million a year) Gare du Nord is the busiest railway station in Europe—and the busiest in the world outside Japan. The building itself, with its neoclassical design and soaring skylights, is a magnificent mix of engineering prowess and aesthetic beauty.

Gare du Nord

Servicing over 700,000 passengers every day (for a total of 190 million a year) Gare du Nord is the busiest railway station in Europe—and the busiest in the world outside Japan. The building itself, with its neoclassical design and soaring skylights, is a magnificent mix of engineering prowess and aesthetic beauty.Travelers head to Gare du Nord to hop on trains to the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, and northern Germany, as well as to other parts of France and the northern suburbs of Paris. You can also visit to admire the building itself, which has been featured in countless films; look for the 23 female statues atop the station’s facade, each one representing a European destination.<ul><li>You can buy train tickets at ticketing machines or at the ticket-office windows in the main concourse, opposite platforms 3–6.</li><li>There are luggage lockers on the ground floor, next to the car rental offices.</li><li>Eurostar has a separate terminal inside the station, with its own security and customs checks.</li><li>Gare du Nord is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Gare du Nord is located on Rue de Dunkerque in Paris’s 10th arrondissement. Take Métro lines 4, 5, RER B, or D to the station, or drive there via the Boulevard de Magenta; there is an underground parking garage on Rue de Compiègne.The station is open daily. Peak season for visiting Paris is in the summer, from June through mid-September, and this is also the station’s busiest time.To ride the Eurostar, you must first find it. The dedicated terminal is not well marked, and getting there can be confusing. For departures to London, go up the escalator opposite platform 17, then walk along the balcony towards platform 3. You’ll need to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to leave time for check-in and security and customs checks. Gels and liquids are allowed onboard, however knives and aerosols are not.

First opened in 1895 by Theophile Bader, Galeries Lafayette is a department store in Paris that houses luxury fashion brands including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Christian Dior. In addition to a stained glass dome ceiling and rooftop terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower, Galeries Lafayette features weekly fashion shows on Friday afternoons.

Galeries Lafayette

First opened in 1895 by Theophile Bader, Galeries Lafayette is a department store in Paris that houses luxury fashion brands including Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Christian Dior. In addition to a stained glass dome ceiling and rooftop terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower, Galeries Lafayette features weekly fashion shows on Friday afternoons.Galeries Lafayette is split into three buildings: La Coupole, which houses women’s couture and accessories; L’Homme, the men’s branch; and La Maison &amp; Le Gourmet, a 4-story dining court. The Galeries often hosts specialty tours and classes, including wine tastings, baking seminars, and makeup masterclasses.Themed walking tours of the area—including art, architecture, history, and Christmas tours— often stop in to the Coupole building for views of the stained glass dome, and typically include a visit to the adjacent Opera House. While walking tours are often limited to small groups, private tours of the Galeries afford visitors with the full attention of a guide and a more in-depth look at the area’s history.<ul><li>Galeries Lafayette is a must for fashion lovers and architecture buffs.</li><li>A cafeteria with plenty of food options is located on the seventh floor.</li><li>Bathrooms are located in the basement and on floors four, five, and six.</li><li>Wi-Fi is available free of charge.</li></ul>Located in the 9th Arrondissement just steps from St. Lazare train station and Palais Garnier Opera House, Galeries Lafayette is easily accessible using the city’s comprehensive public transit system. The nearest Metro stops are Chausee d’Antin La Fayette on lines 7 and 9 and Havre-Caumartin on lines 3 and 9.Since the cafeteria is often busiest around lunchtime on weekends, go in the late morning on a weekday for a quieter experience. Tickets for weekly fashion shows held on Friday afternoons are available to the public for purchase on a first-come, first-served basis. Additionally, the Galeries Christmas decorations are a top destination during the holiday season.Head to the seventh floor of the Coupole building for some of the best panoramic views in Paris. The rooftop’s cafeteria and seating area are touted by visitors and locals as one of the 7th Arrondissement’s hidden gems. Don’t forget your camera: Views include the Eiffel Tower, Opera House, and a sea of classic Parisian rooftops.Yes, Galeries Lafayette is open on Sundays—in fact, it’s an excellent time to go. Although many Parisian shops and attractions close on Sundays, the iconic department store is open from late morning until evening (including its Gourmet food hall). Galeries Lafayette also remains open on public holidays.No, you can’t buy tickets to Galeries Lafayette’s rooftop terrace—and you wouldn’t need to. The department store’s eighth-floor rooftop is open all day from morning to evening, and hosts a range of pop-up restaurants. Except for rainy days, there’s never a bad time to head up and admire the view.That’s hard to choose—as one of Paris’ preeminent department stores, Galeries Lafayette sells items from a staggering 3,500 brands. However, if you’ve come to treat yourself to pieces from French designers and fashion brands, Galeries Lafayette has items from brands like A.P.C, Isabel Marant, and Dior in stock.Yes, the Galeries Lafayette does offer tax-free shopping for (certain) international visitors. Customers who are 16 or older and who live outside of the European Union—and who spend more than €100 on their purchases—can receive a VAT refund of 12%. The duty-free area is located on the first floor of the Coupole store.Yes, there are numerous restaurants and bars inside the Galeries Lafayette. Its dozen-plus options range from high-end wine bars and restaurants run by Michelin-starred chefs to fast-casual lunch spots, sushi purveyors, and more. Its Gourmet food hall is a particularly wide-ranging and decadent place to browse, nibble, and dine.Yes, you can explore the Galeries Lafayette on a guided tour. A number of itineraries are available, from Parisian luxury and shopping tours to architectural tours. The Galeries Lafayette also operates its own Guided Heritage Tours, which last for an hour and a half and which are held on weekends.

The Panthéon, which dates back to 1790, is one of Paris’ most striking monuments. A fine example of early neoclassical architecture, the mausoleum houses the remains of some of France's most revered artists and writers, among them Rousseau, Voltaire, Zola, and Dumas.

Panthéon

The Panthéon, which dates back to 1790, is one of Paris’ most striking monuments. A fine example of early neoclassical architecture, the mausoleum houses the remains of some of France's most revered artists and writers, among them Rousseau, Voltaire, Zola, and Dumas.Situated at the heart of Paris’ atmospheric Latin Quarter, the Panthéon makes a popular photo stop on walking or bike tours of the Left Bank. Independent visitors can save time by pre-booking skip-the-line tickets; additionally, entrance is free to Paris Museum Pass holders.<ul><li>Visitors are required to undergo security checks and large bags and suitcases are not permitted inside.</li><li>Audio guides are available in 11 different languages.</li><li>The Panthéon interiors are not wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>The Paris Panthéon is located at the Place du Panthéon in Paris’ Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissement. You can easily walk to the Panthéon from nearby attractions such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Luxembourg Gardens; alternatively, the closest Metro stop is Maubert-Mutualité (Line 10).The Panthéon is open daily year round, but it can get busy in the peak summer months. Opt for a mid-week or early-morning visit to escape the crowds, or visit after dark when the grand monument is dramatically illuminated.Built as church dedicated to Sainte-Geneviève, the original Panthéon was the work of architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot and deconsecrated in the 19th century. Today, visitors can admire its Corinthian columns and magnificent dome, then head inside to explore the crypt, see Foucault's Pendulum, and climb the 206 steps to the colonnade, which offers views of landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe.

The church of the former Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés anchors the vibrant St Germain des Prés neighborhood, considered a legendary part of Paris’ Latin Quarter. Just off the abbey’s main square are historic haunts like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, where Hemingway, Sartre, Picasso and Simone de Beauvoir frequented.

Saint Germain des Prés

The church of the former Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés anchors the vibrant St Germain des Prés neighborhood, considered a legendary part of Paris’ Latin Quarter. Just off the abbey’s main square are historic haunts like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, where Hemingway, Sartre, Picasso and Simone de Beauvoir frequented.The quarter’s main street, the Haussmann-designed Boulevard St Germain, is lined with chic boutiques and cafés with outdoor terraces, perfect for people-watching. Travelers have myriad options to explore the enchanting area as part of a half-day, full-day, group, or private sightseeing tour, each with a special focus, such as culture (museums, perfume workshops for kids, pétanque, jazz), food and wine (chocolate, charcuterie, macarons, and champagne tastings), and even fun Polaroid photo safaris. Transport on tours run the gamut too, from walking and cycling to Seine hop-on/hop-off cruises.<ul><li>Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families.</li><li>Tours usually include a guide and round-trip hotel transport. Check specific tours for details.</li><li>Wear comfortable shoes since Paris is one of the most walkable cities in the world.</li></ul>The main Métro stop for the neighborhood is St-Germain-des-Prés (line 4); from there, walk north toward the Seine to reach a stretch of galleries and cafés. For shopping and restaurants, cross Boulevard St-Germain and walk south. Or get off at the RER stop at Luxembourg and walk northwest through the Luxembourg gardens.Paris is a place of wonder and beauty at any time of the year, as each season brings its own charms. The best weather is from late spring through early fall, May through September. Deals on hotels may be found during the winter and early spring months. Festivals abound year-round; highlights include Bastille Day in July, the springtime jazz and blues festival, Banlieues Bleues, and the summertime city-wide music festival, Paris, Quartier d’Été.One of the quarter’s most sublime pleasures is to spend time in the Luxembourg Garden (Jardin du Luxembourg). Marie de' Medici, the widow of King Henry IV, created these perfectly manicured lawns and flower beds placed around sumptuous fountains and pools as part of her palace here. Within the gardens is Paris’s oldest public museum, Musée du Luxembourg, which opened in 1750.

In Paris’ Beaubourg district, Centre Pompidou is a multidisciplinary cultural venue that’s home to the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Visitors come to see famous paintings by legendary artists, such as Henri Matisse and Wassily Kandinsky, and to marvel at the building’s design.

Centre Pompidou

In Paris’ Beaubourg district, Centre Pompidou is a multidisciplinary cultural venue that’s home to the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Visitors come to see famous paintings by legendary artists, such as Henri Matisse and Wassily Kandinsky, and to marvel at the building’s design.Designed by architects Richard Rogers, Renzo Piano, and Gianfranco Franchini, Centre Pompidou is a triumph of postmodern architecture. All of the building’s functional systems—from air conditioning to water supply—are routed across its exterior in multicolored pipes; some compare the structure to an oil refinery. It’s named after former French President Georges Pompidou, who commissioned the building in 1969.Aside from the National Museum of Contemporary Art, Centre Pompidou is also home to a huge public reading library, a concert hall, and other cultural organizations. Along with an excellent permanent collection of contemporary European art from 1905 to the present day, including a complete reconstruction of sculptor Constantin Brancusi’s studio, the center also hosts a regular program of cinema showings and live music, theater, and dance performances. The building is a popular spot on walking tours of the city.<ul><li>Entry to Centre Pompidou is by paid ticket.</li><li>Skip the line with a Paris multi-attraction pass.</li><li>Arrange a private tour for more in-depth information about the Pompidou and its collection.</li><li>Entry is free every first Sunday of the month.</li><li>Wheelchairs are available for loan from the visitor’s cloakroom.</li><li>Two of the movie screens are fitted with audio induction loops for those using hearing aids.</li></ul>Centre Pompidou is in the Beaubourg, in the 4th arrondissement, near Les Halles shopping mall. The closest metro stops are Hotel de Ville (Lines 1 and 11) and Chatelet (Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, and 14). It is walkable from other attractions in the city center, including Notre Dame Cathedral. There is underground parking on-site.The center is open Wednesday–Monday from 11am–9pm. On Thursday evenings, it stays open until 11pm. Ticket offices shut one hour before closing time. The Atelier Brancusi is open from 2pm–6pm, while the reading library opens from 12pm–10pm on weekdays and 11am–10pm on weekends. All sites are closed Tuesdays. The center is usually busiest from midmorning through midafternoon.Designed by Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle, the Stravinsky Fountain, outside Centre Pompidou’s south side, was meant to represent composer Igor Stravinsky’s works. Its bright colors and whimsical shapes will draw a smile from children and adults alike.Yes, it is possible to visit the Pompidou Centre for free during a designated time each month. Check the website for the latest information, but once a month, such as on the first Sunday, admission to this famous museum is free for everyone. Otherwise, there is an admission fee.Plan on spending at least 2 hours, or up to half a day, exploring the multi-floor museum at Centre Pompidou. Home to one of Europe’s most significant modern and contemporary art collections, this museum is a top cultural attraction and could quickly fill an entire day for art history buffs.Yes, visiting Centre Pompidou is worth it. This Paris museum is home to one of Europe's biggest collections of modern and contemporary art. Entry is free on the first Sunday of the month, though be prepared for lines. Plan to spend at least a few hours exploring the many exhibitions here.Choose a weekday versus a weekend when planning a visit to Centre Pompidou. The late afternoon hours can be a peaceful time to explore the many exhibitions of this modern and contemporary art museum. Book your tickets online and choose a pre-booked time slot for easy museum access.Yes, Centre Pompidou is suitable for kids—this Paris museum offers a Kids Gallery and Kids Studio that plans activities for kids of all ages. Workshops run by contemporary artists, hands-on, interactive exhibitions, and events with musicians all entertain and build artistic skills for children.No, Centre Pompidou is not closing in 2023, but it is expected to gradually close starting in the autumn of 2024, with final closure in the summer of 2025. Several years of work and renovations are expected over five years, with the museum finally scheduled to reopen in 2030.

Fronting the magnificent Jardin des Tuilieries and looking out across the Seine River, the Musée de l'Orangerie (Orangerie Museum) is situated in one of Paris’ most idyllic locations. The prestigious art museum is home to a number of masterpieces, but it’s most famous for its series of MonetWater Lilies paintings.

Musée de l'Orangerie

Fronting the magnificent Jardin des Tuilieries and looking out across the Seine River, the Musée de l'Orangerie (Orangerie Museum) is situated in one of Paris’ most idyllic locations. The prestigious art museum is home to a number of masterpieces, but it’s most famous for its series of MonetWater Lilies paintings.Visitors can enjoy priority access by pre-booking skip-the-line tickets, join a guided tour, or explore independently with or without an audio guide. Alternatively, visit as part of a group or private tour of Paris, a walking tour of the Montmartre neighborhood, or a Paris art history tour. Combination tickets are also available for the Musée de l'Orangerie and the Musée d'Orsay, while free admission is offered to holders of the Paris Museum Pass.<ul><li>On-site facilities include restrooms, a gift shop, and a museum café.</li><li>Large bags must be left in the free cloakroom.</li><li>The museum is fully wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>The Musée de l'Orangerie is located at the southwest corner of the Jardin des Tuileries, bordered by Place de la Concorde to the west and the Seine River to the south. The most scenic way to arrive at the museum is on foot, either by walking down the Champs Elysée from the Arc de Triomphe, or by strolling through the Jardin des Tuileries from The Louvre. The closest Metro station is Concorde (Lines 1, 8, and 12).The museum is open daily (except Tuesdays) year round. In the busy summer months, opt for an early-morning visit to avoid the crowds. Budget-conscious travelers can nab free entrance on the first Sunday of each month.Transformed into an art gallery in the early 20th century, the Musée de l'Orangerie displays a varied collection of 19th- and 20th-century art, with some fantastic examples of impressionist, post- impressionist, expressionist, and modern art. The star attraction of the museum’s permanent collections is Monet’sWater Lilies, displayed in a pair of evocatively lit ovular rooms. In the basement, the Jean Walter and Paul Guillaume collection brims with masterpieces by Renoir, Cezanne, Matisse, Modigliani, Picasso, and Soutine, and others.

With more than 61 acres (25 hectares) of flower-lined lawns, formal French gardens, and shady chestnut groves, the Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are one of Paris’ most idyllic green spaces. On sunny afternoons, this is the Left Bank picnic spot of choice for fashionable Parisians.

Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)

With more than 61 acres (25 hectares) of flower-lined lawns, formal French gardens, and shady chestnut groves, the Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) are one of Paris’ most idyllic green spaces. On sunny afternoons, this is the Left Bank picnic spot of choice for fashionable Parisians.No sightseeing tour of the Latin Quarter and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood would be complete without a stroll through the manicured Luxembourg Gardens, a perfect spot for walking tour or biking tour. In addition to admiring the sculptures and monuments—including the Marie de Médicis fountain and the Pavillon Davioud—visitors can explore the Luxembourg Palace (Palais de Luxembourg), tour the Luxembourg Museum (Musée de Luxembourg), and stroll around the Orangerie, a 19th-century building that still houses citrus trees. Feeling romantic? Take advantage of the scenery and renew your wedding vows here—it’s become a popular trend in recent years.<ul><li>There is no admission fee to enter the park, but opening hours vary throughout the year.</li><li>The park is fully wheelchair accessible, and accessible restrooms are located at the Auguste-Comte entrance.</li><li>Free Wi-Fi is available in the park.</li></ul>The Luxembourg Gardens straddle Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter in Paris’ 6th Arrondissement on the Left Bank of the Seine River. Bordered by Rue de Vaugirard to the north, Rue Auguste Comte to the south, and Rue Guynemer and Boulevard Saint-Michel to the west and east, the park is reachable on foot from the Latin Quarter and nearby attractions such as the Panthéon (a 10-minute walk). The closest metro station is the Odeon (Line 6) and the nearest RER station is Luxembourg (Line C).The park is open year-round; each season has its charms. You’ll find open-air entertainment and festivals in summer, flowers in spring, foliage in autumn, and Christmas decorations around the holidays. The park gets busy on sunny afternoons, so if you’re hoping to take photos with crowd-free backgrounds, aim for an early-morning visit.The park has a number of family-friendly activities. Take the kids to visit the beehives, try their hand at a pony ride, steer a rented model sailboat around the Grand Bassin lake, or play tennis. There’s also a playground, plus puppet shows, at the pint-sized Théâtre du Luxembourg.The main attractions to see in the Luxembourg Gardens include Luxembourg Palace, the regal-looking building where the French senate meets, the Little Statue of Liberty on the park’s western side, and the Medici Fountain, which is popular for photos and those seeking a shady spot.Yes, many guided tours pass through the Luxembourg Gardens—it’s a popular stop on tours of the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris. Some Luxembourg Gardens walking tours spend around two hours there, scouting out photo points and revealing the history of French nobility.Most of the grassy lawns are off-limits, but there are quiet nooks and little chairs where you can sit and eat discreetly. If you want to lay down a picnic blanket on the grass, observatory lawns are sometimes opened up to accommodate picnickers. Follow the locals to get it right.Yes, in summer there are often events and activities in the Luxembourg Gardens. Puppet shows take place at the Théâtre des Marionnettes du Jardins du Luxembourg, you can rent model sailboats to sail on the pond, and concerts take place in the bandstand. There are also photo and art exhibitions in the gardens’ Orangery.Nearby attractions to visit after exploring the Luxembourg Gardens include the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés. In the Latin Quarter, you’ll find the Paris Panthéon and the Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church. In Saint-Germain-des-Prés, there’s the Musée Delacroix, a lesser-known art museum dedicated to the French Romantic artist of the same name.In the peak summer months between June and August, the Luxembourg Gardens are busy—especially on sunny days. Aim to arrive in the morning if you want crowd-free photos, the chance to roam with fewer other people around, and to bag a prime picnic spot.

With a history dating back to the 1940s and a prime location on the glittering Champs-Élysées, Lido de Paris is one of Paris’ most famous and celebrated cabarets. The legendary show is a feast for the senses, with choreography, costumes, a medley of foot-stomping show tunes, the famous Bluebell Girls—and, in French fashion, Champagne.

Lido de Paris

With a history dating back to the 1940s and a prime location on the glittering Champs-Élysées, Lido de Paris is one of Paris’ most famous and celebrated cabarets. The legendary show is a feast for the senses, with choreography, costumes, a medley of foot-stomping show tunes, the famous Bluebell Girls—and, in French fashion, Champagne.Lido de Paris guests can expect a show. Advance booking is essential, as tickets can sell out weeks in advance, especially in busy periods. Two 90-minute shows are performed each evening, with lunch and matinee shows held on select days. You can enjoy a pre-show dinner and/or Champagne, opt for a private hotel transfer, or combine the show with a guided night tour of the City of Light.<ul><li>There is a smart-casual dress code—shorts, sportswear, flip-flops, and sneakers are not permitted.</li><li>A free coat check is available.</li><li>Taking photos or videos is not permitted during the show.</li><li>Lido de Paris is wheelchair accessible.</li></ul>Lido de Paris, on the Champs-Élysées in Paris’ eighth arrondissement, is a 5-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. The closest metro stop is George V, and the nearest RER A train station is Charles de Gaulle–Etoile.Lido de Paris has performances every day of the year. For last-minute tickets and deals, it’s best to visit in low season (Nov. to Mar.) or opt for a weekday show. The hottest tickets of the year are the special Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve shows, accompanied by a 6-course gourmet dinner and plenty of Champagne.Over the years, stars such as Elton John, Elvis Presley, Edith Piaf, and Shirley MacLaine have performed at the iconic Lido de Paris cabaret, while in-house entertainers include the famous Bluebell Girls, Lido Boys, and Lido Orchestra. Franco Dragone’s Paris Merveilles show, a 90-minute extravaganza devoted to the wonders of Paris, features sets that include an ice rink, gigantic chandelier, and water fountains, plus acts with burlesque dancers, acrobats, magicians, and mimes.Once home to public swimming facilities, the Lido de Paris was reborn as a thriving cabaret venue in the 1930s, located on the Champs-Élysées. It continued to host popular and risqué cabaret revues until its closure in 2021. It was later renamed Lido 2 Paris and became a musical theater venue.The venue recommends that all visitors wear “proper” attire when attending its performances. In practice, this means smart-casual—avoid sneakers, athletic gear, or anything incredibly informal, and aim for stylish slacks, shirts, blouses, and other formal options. This is Paris, after all—it’s the perfect opportunity to look chic.No, the Lido de Paris is not a particularly child-friendly establishment. Its rotating schedule of theatrical performances generally caters to adult audiences. The theater advises that its shows are inappropriate for children under 14, so it’s best to avoid bringing younger kids.Although the Lido de Paris used to provide a dinner show in its previous guise as a more traditional cabaret, since it was reimagined as Lido 2 Paris, it no longer offers dinner. However, the venue does operate a bar that serves light refreshments before shows and during intermission.There are several ways to buy show tickets at the Lido de Paris. The venue has an online box office, and tickets can be purchased over the phone. Several partner retailers and vendors also sell tickets, so you have plenty of options for nabbing yours.Thanks to its location right on the Champs-Élysées, the Lido de Paris is easy to reach via public transportation. Take the Métro line 1 to George V, located just moments from the venue, or take bus 73. You can also use the Vélib bike share service to get there.

At the heart of the bohemian Montmartre neighborhood in Paris, Place du Tertre is one of the top sights in this historical, culture-rich hub. Set just steps from the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur—and close to where artists such as Picasso and Modigliani once lived and worked—today the square bustles with buskers and street artists.

Place du Tertre

At the heart of the bohemian Montmartre neighborhood in Paris, Place du Tertre is one of the top sights in this historical, culture-rich hub. Set just steps from the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur—and close to where artists such as Picasso and Modigliani once lived and worked—today the square bustles with buskers and street artists.Place du Tertre is a highlight of Montmartre walking tours of this Parisian district. Join a guided tour to soak up the square’s historic charm and learn about its significance in the evolution of 20th-century art. The square is also the ideal spot to stop for a glass of Pastis at an atmospheric café while watching street artists hawk their wares, before moving on to nearby sights such as Sacré-Coeur, Musée de Montmartre, and Espace Dalí.<ul><li>Cafés and bistros line the square, offering a scenic break from sightseeing and excellent people-watching opportunities.</li><li>The square is thick with street artists and buskers selling original works and prints, making it ideal for souvenir shopping.</li><li>This pedestrian square is closed to traffic so it is a great place to visit with young children.</li><li>Though flat, Place du Tertre is paved with cobblestones that may be a challenge for wheelchairs.</li></ul>Set in the 18th arrondissement of Paris, Place du Tertre is easy to reach from the city center by metro line 12 (get off at the Abbesses or Anvers stations) or via one of the many bus routes to the Gabrielle stop. The most scenic way to visit is by the Gare Haute funicular, which takes you to Sacré-Coeur at the top of the hill in just a few minutes.This buzzy square is best known for its street scene, so visit on a clear day when Place du Tertre is filled with artists and musicians, and the outdoor tables of the restaurants and cafés bustle with activity. The action stretches late into the evening, as the local bars and restaurants become a hub for the neighborhood’s nightlife.Most visitors stop in Place du Tertre before or after visiting the nearby Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, one of the most impressive churches in Paris. Other top Montmartre sights include the Musée de Montmartre, dedicated to the history of the neighborhood and its most famous residents; the Montmartre Cemetery, the resting place of Alexandre Dumas and Edgar Degas; and Espace Dalí, which exhibits an extensive collection of works by the Surrealist artist.

The tomb of French statesman and military leader Napoleon Bonaparte sits in St. Jerome’s Chapel (Chapelle Saint-Jérôme) at Les Invalides, a military museum housed in a former veterans hospital in Paris. Napoleon’s tomb sits at the center of the museum complex, surrounded by at least 500,000 war-related art works and artifacts.

Napoleon's Tomb

The tomb of French statesman and military leader Napoleon Bonaparte sits in St. Jerome’s Chapel (Chapelle Saint-Jérôme) at Les Invalides, a military museum housed in a former veterans hospital in Paris. Napoleon’s tomb sits at the center of the museum complex, surrounded by at least 500,000 war-related art works and artifacts.Napoleon’s tomb lies in a 1600s chapel at the southern edge of the Army Museum (Musée de l’Armée). The museum houses nine permanent and temporary exhibitions in its central Cour d’Honneur building: artillery collections; arms and armor from the Middle Ages to World War II; figurines and musical instruments; and historical models of cities and military campaigns. The complex also contains more than 14 courtyards, a cathedral, and a café.Breeze through the entrance with a skip-the-line tour of Les Invalides, a popular option for visitors with limited time in Paris. For an in-depth overview of Napoleon’s tomb, book a private tour of the museum complex. Hop-on hop-off bus passes are a convenient way to visit the museum and other Paris highlights, and offer a convenient way to sightsee without the stress of navigating.<ul><li>Musée de l’Armée and Napoleon’s tomb are a must for history and military buffs.</li><li>Le Carré, the museum’s on-site restaurant, offers a wide selection of lunch and bakery options.</li><li>Les Invalides is often visited in conjunction with the Musée Rodin, just across the street.</li><li>The museum complex is accessible to wheelchair users, and loaner wheelchairs available at the front desk. The accessible entrance is located at 6 Boulevard des Invalides.</li></ul>Musée de l’Armée is in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, about a 20-minute walk east of the Eiffel Tower. The nearest metro stops are Invalides on lines 8 and 13, La Tour Maubourg on line 8, and Varenne on line 13. Alternatively, take bus 93 to Invalides.Napoleon’s tomb and the museum are open daily from 10am to 6pm from April to October, and to 5pm November to March. Peak visiting hours are in the afternoon, so go in the morning for a quieter visit. Concerts in the Cathedral of Saint-Louis (Cathédral Saint-Louis des Invalides) are offered throughout the year; check online for a full calendar of events.Les Invalides became Napoleon’s final resting place only about 20 years after he died on the British island of Saint Helena. In 1841, the government decided to exhume Napoleon’s body from UK territory and give him a proper burial in France—in a political effort to unite the French people and increase the government’s popularity.

One of Paris’ top literary landmarks, Shakespeare and Company is an English-language bookstore in the Latin Quarter opened in 1951 by George Whitman. It was named after a bookstore founded in 1919 by Sylvia Beach, famous for hosting luminaries including Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, and Gertrude Stein.

Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

One of Paris’ top literary landmarks, Shakespeare and Company is an English-language bookstore in the Latin Quarter opened in 1951 by George Whitman. It was named after a bookstore founded in 1919 by Sylvia Beach, famous for hosting luminaries including Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, and Gertrude Stein.An important Paris literary destination, Shakespeare and Company was started by former American serviceman George Whitman as Le Mistral bookstore in 1951. He renamed it Shakespeare and Company in 1964 in honor of the shop opened by American expat Sylvia Beach in 1919, which was celebrated as a meeting place for Lost Generation legends such as F. Scott Fitzgerald as well as Man Ray, Ezra Pound, and Gertrude Stein before it closed in World War II.Whitman’s shop continued Beach’s tradition, hosting luminaries such as Allen Ginsberg, James Baldwin, Anaïs Nin, and editors ofThe Paris Review. Today, Shakespeare and Company remains a highlight destination for readers and writers alike. The bookstore is a popular stop on literary walking tours, and is a frequent highlight of Latin Quarter itineraries.<ul><li>Shakespeare and Company hosts several beds, where aspiring writers can sleep for free if they help in the shop; upwards of 30,000 visitors are said to have slept there.</li><li>The bookstore maintains a cafe, opened in the space next door in 2015; it serves mainly vegetarian food.</li><li>Shakespeare and Company is managed by George Whitman’s daughter, Sylvia Whitman.</li></ul>Located within view of Nôtre-Dame and the Seine, the centrally located Shakespeare and Company is easily accessed by Métro (take line 4 to Saint-Michel) or RER (take lines B or C to Saint-Michel – Nôtre-Dame). The shop can also be reached by the 27 and 47 bus lines, by rental bike, car or taxi, or foot.Shakespeare and Company is open daily, as is its next-door cafe. The bookstore hosts workshops, author readings, and other events; check its calendar before your visit.The original Shakespeare and Company made history in 1922 when it was the first to publish James Joyce’s magnum opus,Ulysses. Beach’s shop also published Ernest Hemingway’s first book,Three Stories and Ten Poems, in 1923. More recently, the Whitman-founded bookstore releasedShakespeare and Company,Paris, a wide-ranging account of its history in 2016.

Located across from the Louvre in the heart of Paris, the Palais-Royal is an architectural highlight known for its scenic gardens and regal heritage. Originally named the Palais-Cardinal—it was built for Cardinal Richelieu in 1633—the palace later housed French royalty until Versailles was completed in 1682.

Palais Royal

Located across from the Louvre in the heart of Paris, the Palais-Royal is an architectural highlight known for its scenic gardens and regal heritage. Originally named the Palais-Cardinal—it was built for Cardinal Richelieu in 1633—the palace later housed French royalty until Versailles was completed in 1682.While it’s often overshadowed by the world-famous art museum next door, the Palais-Royal boasts its own cultural legacy, oasis-like gardens, and architectural grandeur. Today, the landmark serves multiple functions; for one, it’s the seat of several government bodies, including the Constitutional Council, the Council of State, and the Ministry of Culture. It also contains La Comédie Française, one of the oldest still-active theaters in the world, the Théâtre du Palais-Royal, another centuries-old theater, and Le Grand Véfour, a Michelin-starred restaurant whose origins date to 1784.Given its convenient location, the Palais-Royal is a stop on numerous tours, including bike tours, history- and architecture-themed walking tours, and private driving tours of Paris.<ul><li>The palace complex and its gardens are free to visit.</li><li>Jacques Lemercier, the architect who built the Palais-Royal, also designed the Sorbonne.</li><li>In September, the state rooms at the Palais-Royal are open to visitors as part of the European Heritage Days event.</li><li>The Palais-Royal hosts numerous special events throughout the year, from Easter Egg hunts to Fête de la Musique concerts.</li></ul>Given its perfectly central location in Paris’ 1st arrondissement, the Palais-Royal couldn’t be simpler to access. Take Métro lines 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre stop, which is just steps away. You can also take the 21, 27, 39, 48, 69, 72, 81, or 95 bus lines. The Palais-Royal is also easily accessed on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.Between October and March, the Palais-Royal is open daily from 7:30am–8:30pm. From April to May it’s open from 7am–10:15pm; from June to August it’s open from 7am–11pm; and during September it’s open from 7am–9:30pm. Visitors are asked to clear the palace grounds 30 minutes prior to the official closing time.One of the Palais-Royal’s most distinctive (and controversial) elements is an art installation in its inner courtyard (the Cour d’Honneur). Created by artist Daniel Buren in 1985, Les Deux Plateaux (also known as the Colonnes de Buren) consists of numerous black-and-white striped columns.The Palais Royal was first built in 1633 for Cardinal Richelieu before it hosted the French royal family while the Palace of Versailles was being constructed. Today, the Palais Royal is a large complex that hosts several government departments, a selection of theaters, shops and restaurants, and destination-worthy gardens.The Palais Royal is located smack-dab in the middle of Paris, right in the 1st arrondissement, making it very easy to get to via public transportation. The closest Métro stops are Palais Royal - Musée du Louvre, served by lines 1 and 7, and Pyramides, served by lines 7 and 14.Yes, the Palais Royal is home to a number of cafés and restaurants, most of which are hosted in its open-air colonnades. Some of the most notable choices include the Michelin-starred Le Grand Véfour (whose history dates to the 18th century), the Palais Royal Restaurant (also Michelin-starred), and Café Kitsuné.Yes, the Palais Royal is accessible to wheelchair users and visitors with limited mobility. Its sidewalks and galleries, many of which are flat and at street level, afford easy access, while ramps can be used to reach the gardens. Assistance dogs are also permitted throughout the Palais Royal complex.No, there are no entry fees to visit the Palais Royal. The landmark and its gardens are free for all to explore, and its arcades free to browse. However, you may wish to pay to see a performance at one of its theaters, including the Comédie Française, or dine in one of its restaurants.The Palais Royal happens to be right next to the Louvre: one of Paris’ most popular tourist attractions, and one of the world’s leading art museums. Other nearby attractions include the Tuileries Gardens, the Pont des Arts, and Île de la Cité (home to Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle).

Paris’ largest and most prestigious cemetery, the Père Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetière du Père Lachaise) was founded in 1804. Today it contains more than 70,000 ornate tombs, including those of some of France’s most important public figures.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Paris’ largest and most prestigious cemetery, the Père Lachaise Cemetery (Cimetière du Père Lachaise) was founded in 1804. Today it contains more than 70,000 ornate tombs, including those of some of France’s most important public figures.The grand, tree-lined avenues and cobblestone lanes of the Père Lachaise Cemetery make a dramatic backdrop for a walking tour, and the faded headstones and aging monuments harbor centuries of history. With more than 110 acres (44 hectares) to explore, visiting with a tour guide is the most convenient option, and most small-group or private tours stop at all the highlights, including Jim Morrison’s grave.<ul><li>Admission to the Père Lachaise Cemetery is free.</li><li>The cemetery is wheelchair accessible, although some areas may be difficult to access without assistance.</li><li>Cemetery maps are available for free from the information office at the Boulevard de Ménilmontant entrance.</li></ul>The Père Lachaise Cemetery is located in Paris’ 11th arrondissement, around 3 miles (5km) east of downtown Paris. The cemetery has four entrances; the main entrance is on Boulevard de Ménilmontant, close to the Philippe Auguste metro stop (line 2). Other entrances are situated close to the Père-Lachaise (lines 2 and 3), Gambetta (line 3), and Alexandre Dumas (line 2) metro stations.The cemetery is open year round and is busiest in summer, when group tours descend on to the most popular sites. To avoid the crowds, time your visit for the early morning or aim for 12:30 p.m.-1:30 p.m., when most tours break for lunch.Père Lachaise is the resting place of renowned composers, writers, artists, actors, singers, dancers, and even the immortal 12th-century lovers Abélard and Héloïse. One of the most-visited grave sites is that of rock star Jim Morrison of the Doors, who died in an apartment on rue Beautreillis in the Marais in 1971. Others include Oscar Wilde, Maria Callas, Chopin, Marcel Proust, Modigliani, Edith Piaf, Gertrude Stein, and Georges Haussmann—the man who laid out Paris's magnificent 19th-century boulevards.The Père Lachaise Cemetery became a burial ground in the early 19th century. To take advantage of ample space on the city's outskirts, Parisian officials organized many reburials of famous people here. This elevated its status and the cemetery soon became the burial ground of choice for notable figures.The pianist Frédéric Chopin, poet and playwright Oscar Wilde, and The Doors lead singer Jim Morrison are some of the famous people buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery. Famous French people include Marcel Proust, author of a 3,000-page masterpiece, and the architect Charles Garnier, who designed the Paris Opera House.Yes, guided tours of Père Lachaise Cemetery are available year-round. Walking tours and small-group tours often spend a couple of hours here, discovering the famous graves and hearing the stories behind the tombs. Other sightseeing options include haunted tours that focus on more macabre stories, and self-guided audio tours.Yes, you can take photos inside Père Lachaise Cemetery. Some visitors come here for precisely that reason, often lining up to catch a snap in front of Jim Morrison’s grave. Oscar Wilde’s tomb is said to be the most beautiful (and kissed), and its lipstick-covered wall is a quirky photo opportunity.Grab a cemetery map when you enter, and plan a route before you start to walk. Private tours let you customize your itinerary, so you can head straight to the graves that interest you most. For the grave of Jim Morrison, follow the mostly American crowds.Like all Paris attractions, Père Lachaise Cemetery is especially busy in the summer months. To avoid the worst crowds, the shoulder season months of May and September are quieter. Whatever month you visit, go earlier in the morning; the attraction is open from 8am and there are rarely lines to enter.

A key element of Paris’ skyline, the Montparnasse Tower (Tour Montparnasse) stands in monolithic, modern contrast to the Hausmannian boulevards below. Debuted in 1973, the tower was France’s tallest building for decades; its stark look has caused controversy since its unveiling. Even still, there’s no arguing with the panoramic views visitors can glean from its observation deck.

Montparnasse Tower (Tour Montparnasse)

A key element of Paris’ skyline, the Montparnasse Tower (Tour Montparnasse) stands in monolithic, modern contrast to the Hausmannian boulevards below. Debuted in 1973, the tower was France’s tallest building for decades; its stark look has caused controversy since its unveiling. Even still, there’s no arguing with the panoramic views visitors can glean from its observation deck.Designed by architects Eugène Beaudouin, Urbain Cassan, and Louis de Hoÿm de Marien, the 59-story Montparnasse Tower irrevocably altered the Paris cityscape. Following its construction, the city levied a ban on new buildings exceeding seven stories; while that stricture has been relaxed somewhat in recent years, the tower still stands out from the rest of the city.Its looks may not inspire rapturous praise, but its views certainly do. The building’s observation deck includes both indoor and outdoor viewing areas. From its heights, most of the City of Light can be glimpsed, from the Eiffel Tower to Sacré Coeur and beyond. Various ticket packages cater to individual visitors and groups; you can also explore Montparnasse Tower on a private Paris tour or glimpsed it in passing on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.<ul><li>The Montparnasse Tower’s observation deck is poised 656 feet (200 meters) above street level, and the elevator that ferries visitors to the top is among the fastest in Europe.</li><li>The observation deck is equipped with interactive kiosks and touchscreens that will help you spot key Paris landmarks.</li><li>Two-entry tickets to the Montparnasse Tower, available for a small additional fee, let visitors take in both daytime and evening skyline views.</li><li>The tower’s gourmet restaurant, le Ciel de Paris (the Paris Sky), is the highest panoramic eatery in town.</li></ul>The Montparnasse Tower, located in the 15th arrondissement, is just adjacent to the Gare Montparnasse: one of Paris’ largest train stations, which is served by numerous train lines, including the TGV. It also stands above the Montparnasse – Bienvenüe Métro station, which is accessible by lines 4, 6, 12, and 13.The Montparnasse Tower is open to visitors seven days a week, 365 days per year, from 9:30am–11:30pm. If you can, avoid visiting during foggy or rainy days, or times of low visibility. Sunny days and neon-lit evenings both offer top-notch sightseeing potential.It’s true that the Montparnasse Tower’s looks are oft-maligned, but that’s poised to change. Inspired by the 2024 Paris Olympics, the tower’s facade will undergo a complete renovation in the coming years that promises to give it contemporary flair.

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