Paris, the capital of France, is a travel destination on almost every bucket list – and for good reason. The city of the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral is also the fashion capital of the world and is brimming with history, art, and culture. This cosmopolitan city offers everything from world-renowned museums and art galleries to delicious food and drinks that you will not soon forget!
1. Visit the Eiffel Tower & the Latin Quarter
If there is one thing that everyone associates with Paris, it is the Eiffel Tower. This iconic landmark is the tallest structure in Paris standing at 1,063 feet (324 meters) tall and provides a magnificent view of the city.
Nearby in the Latin Quarter, you can find local bistros, bookshops, and a lively student atmosphere, as it is home to several impressive education establishments. This includes Sorbonne University, which has produced over 30 Nobel Prize and Fields Medal winners.
2. Take in the Historic Sites
There are some amazing historic sites in Paris, including the Arc de Triomphe, which is located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. This monument honors the soldiers who fought in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars, and the names of all the victories and generals can be found on its surface.
The Champs-Élysées itself is a sight to behold, and its 1.2-mile-long stretch is home to countless cafes. It is the site of the annual Bastille Day Military Parade and is the finish line to the Tour de France.
After you take in those sites, head over to the Louvre Museum to take in some of the most impressive art exhibits in the world. It has magnificent, baroque-style architecture and sits along the banks of the Seine River – a perfect place for an afternoon stroll!
3. Explore Le Marais & Eat Pastries on Rue Royale
If you are looking for a local place to explore, head over to Le Marais. This area is known for hidden parks and classic libraries and is built like a winding maze – meaning there are countless areas to discover!
Once you get hungry, you can head to Ladurée on Rue Royale, the perfect place to eat delicious pastries. This luxury baker is known for its double-décor macarons, and it is estimated that they sell over 15,000 of them per day.
4. Enjoy a “Bloody Mary” in Its Birthplace
Most people do not know that the “Bloody Mary” cocktail was actually invented in Paris at a unique spot called Harry’s New York Bar. This bar was a favorite hangout of Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald in the 1920s and has the perfect blend of atmosphere and history to make for a great night out on the town.
5. Shop on rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré
If you are ready to experience luxury shopping in Paris, look no further than rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. This street is lined with almost every fashion house you can think of and is considered one of the most fashionable streets in the world.
6. Visit the Château de Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a sight to behold, with its impressive architecture and rich history. It was the home to French royalty from 1682 to 1789 and was the center of the French Revolution. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and also houses the Hall of Mirrors.
7. Admire Modern Masterpieces
There is no shortage of art to admire in Paris, and this includes the Louvre Pyramid. This glass and metal pyramid was designed by architect I. M. Pei and serves as the main entrance to the Louvre Museum.
The Centre Pompidou is another must-see, as it houses a vast public library and the largest museum for modern art in Europe.
8. Relax in Île Saint-Louis
Île Saint-Louis in Paris is a quiet, cobble-stoned neighborhood that is known for its relaxing shops, bakeries, cafes, and bistros. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of the big city and enjoy your time in this unique neighborhood!
9. Take in the Scenery at Place Des Vosges
Enjoy some greenery at Place des Vosges, the oldest public square in Paris. It has a beautiful central park and is surrounded by picturesque 17th-century townhomes. During this time, it was the place to be if you were a part of the Parisian nobility.
10. Enjoy the Nightlife
No trip to Paris is complete without experiencing the nightlife it has to offer! Catch a show at the Moulin Rouge, a world-famous cabaret that is performed inside of a 19th-century windmill. After the show, consider heading over to Pigalle, the red-light district located at the foot of Montmartre Hill.