Parisian Perfection: The Top 20 Things to Do in Paris (First-Timer & Return Visitor Guide)

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Paris is a city of layers, offering both world-famous icons and countless charming, hidden moments. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Paris or a seasoned return traveler, this curated list of the Top 20 Things to Do in Paris ensures you experience the very best of the City of Light—from grand museums to the simple art of the flâneur.

Get ready to check off your Parisian bucket list!

The Indispensable Icons (Must-See First-Timer)

These are the non-negotiable sights that define the Parisian experience. Pro Tip: Pre-book all tickets with timed entry!

  1. Climb the Eiffel Tower: Go up to the top for a spectacular panoramic view, or enjoy the view of the tower from the Trocadéro gardens, especially during the hourly sparkle show after sunset.

  2. Explore the Louvre Museum: Dedicate at least a half-day to the world’s largest art museum. Focus on the highlights: the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.

  3. Wander the Champs-Élysées: Stroll the grand avenue, famous for its theaters, cafés, and luxury shops, connecting the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe.

  4. Visit the Arc de Triomphe: Climb the arch (or take the elevator) for one of the best views in the city, offering a straight shot down the Champs-Élysées.

  5. Behold Notre-Dame Cathedral: While still undergoing restoration after the 2019 fire, its magnificent exterior and the surrounding Île de la Cité (the birthplace of Paris) are essential viewing.

  6. Admire Sainte-Chapelle: Located on the Île de la Cité, this royal chapel is renowned for its breathtaking collection of 15 spectacular stained-glass windows.

Art, History & Tranquility

Dive into Parisian culture and find your moments of quiet reflection.

  1. Discover Impressionism at Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a gorgeous former train station, this museum features masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, and Degas.

  2. Relax in the Jardin du Luxembourg: Spend an afternoon in this beautiful, formal public garden. Watch Parisians sail toy boats, play chess, or simply read.

  3. Stroll the Latin Quarter: Explore the 5th Arrondissement, home to the Sorbonne University, historic bookstores (like Shakespeare and Company), and the Panthéon.

  4. Find Peace at the Musée Rodin: Dedicated to the sculptor Auguste Rodin, this museum includes the famous works The Thinker and The Kiss, displayed in a stunning house and tranquil sculpture garden.

Local Life & Unique Neighborhoods

To truly live Paris, you must venture into its distinctive arrondissements.

  1. Get Bohemian in Montmartre: Explore the charming hilltop village of the 18th Arrondissement. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, watch artists at work in Place du Tertre, and seek out the famous Mur des Je t’aime (I Love You Wall).

  2. Wander Le Marais: This hip, historic district (3rd & 4th Arrondissements) is packed with designer boutiques, beautiful 17th-century architecture, and the peaceful Place des Vosges.

  3. Shop a Local Market Street: Experience authentic Parisian life at a market street like Rue Cler (7th Arr.) or Rue Montorgueil (1st/2nd Arr.) to grab cheese, flowers, and the perfect baguette.

  4. Dine at a Classic Bistro: Seek out a traditional French bistro for a dinner of steak frites, French onion soup, or confit de canard. Look for a bustling spot off the main tourist avenues.

  5. Explore the Covered Passages: Discover the hidden 19th-century retail arcades like Galerie Vivienne or Passage des Panoramas, offering a glimpse into old Paris.

Iconic Parisian Moments (The Non-Sightseeing Must-Do)

These activities define the Parisian atmosphere as much as the monuments.

  1. Have a Café Crème on a Terrace: Stop at a traditional café, sit at a table facing the street, and order a coffee. This is the simple, essential ritual of Parisian people-watching.

  2. Indulge in French Pastries: Sample the best of Parisian baking: grab a perfect croissant from a boulangerie, or splurge on colorful macarons from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.

  3. Take a Seine River Cruise: See the city from a different perspective. A sunset or evening cruise offers stunning views of the illuminated landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

  4. Visit a Cave à Vin (Wine Bar): Enjoy a glass of French wine, paired with a small plate of charcuterie or cheese, at a cozy, local wine bar.

  5. Spend a Day in Versailles: While technically outside of Paris (easily accessible by RER train), a day trip to the Palace of Versailles is essential to see the opulence of the Hall of Mirrors and the vast, elaborate gardens.

No matter how many of these you manage to fit into your trip, you are guaranteed to fall in love with the magic of Paris. Bon voyage!

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