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What are the best things to do in Paris, France?
The City of Light has over 100 museums, historic landmarks, restaurants, and boutiques. Your clients will need more than one day to cover all Paris hotspots and hidden gems. As a travel agent or advisor, combine popular and unique attractions in your portfolio. Blending the best of both worlds can maximize value for your business and customers.
Here are the top 20 Paris attractions and activities:
1. Eiffel Tower
Where to stay: Hotel Regina, Hotel Trianon Rive Gauche, First Hotel Eiffel
Tip on time to visit: The busiest period at the Eiffel is from the end of June to the beginning of September. Spring or autumn is the perfect time for a less-crowded experience.
As the most famous Paris landmark, the Eiffel Tower captures the essence of the French capital. This architectural marvel was built in 1887 by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (the World’s Fair). It receives 6 to 7 million visitors yearly, making it the world’s most visited paid monument. Why is it a must-see in Paris?
The tower is synonymous with Paris-inspired romance and engineering expertise. It was the world’s tallest building for 41 years. Gustave mathematically designed the curvature to resist wind without undermining aesthetics. The daring design proclaims Gustave’s architectural ingenuity. For over 135 years, the tower has been a distinctive symbol of Paris and France. It dominates the skyline from various points around the city and its suburbs.
Photo by Benjamin Dau on Unsplash
The 330-meter monument served as the theatre for historic events in the evolution and growth of Paris and France. For example, citizens and visitors can enjoy the grandiose fireworks on Bastille Day every 14 July. Another benefit of visiting this architectural marvel is its location in the 7th arrondissement, a quaint but sophisticated neighborhood with an immense reputation. It provides easy access to several Paris attractions near the city center. Visitors can relax, walk, picnic, play, and indulge with locals at the beautiful Champ de Mars gardens.
Learn the Champs de Mars’ history and why it was named after Mars, the god of war. Then, they can climb the 674 steps or take the elevator to explore this marvel and its restaurants and bars. Families with kids can find kids-friendly activities and playgrounds, including a basketball court, an antique hand-cranked merry-go-round, and the Les Guignols puppet theatre. This location offers parks along the river for cyclists and skaters on Sundays. Visitors can also attend 5-minute, hourly light shows after sunset.
As a travel agent, book quality accommodations with RateHawk to deliver this experience to your clients.
2. Louvre Museum
Where to stay: Hôtel Louvre Bons Enfants, Hotel Regina Louvre, L’Empire Paris, Timhotel Palais Royal
Tip on time to visit: The Louvre is free for all visitors on 14 July (Bastille Day) and the first Friday of the month after 6 p.m., except in July and August. However, it can be overcrowded during these periods. Buy a ticket or book guided tours for your clients to learn about the iconic masterpieces from an expert.
The Musée du Louvre is one of the world’s best art museums. Since 1793, it has attracted and entertained millions of art lovers. Why is it one of the top places to go in Paris?
The Louvre is known for the Mona Lisa but offers over 35,000 pieces. Its collection spans artistic genres, from world-famous paintings to sculptures and artifacts. Visitors can spend the entire day exploring the Louvre’s halls, galleries, and impressive exhibitions across over 652,300 square feet. First, see Leonardo da Vinci’s world-famous Mona Lisa. Second, immerse yourself in the Liberty Leading the People, which depicts the 1830 July Revolution.
Photo by Kevin Mueller on Unsplash
Visitors can learn about the Coronation of Napoleon from Jacques-Louis David’s painting. Then, find Théodore Géricault’s The Raft of the Medusa to explore the 1816 sinking of the frigate Medusa. They can also access iconic sculptures of Greek goddesses, such as the Venus de Milo representing Aphrodite and the Winged Victory of Samothrace depicting Nike. The Psyche and Cupid sculpture by Antonio Canova, the Hammurabi Code, and the Great Sphinx of Tanis attract seasoned art lovers and critics.
RateHawk offer easy access to high-quality accommodations around Paris city center near the Louvre. Check available rooms for your clients with RateHawk.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Where to stay: Hotel du Quai de Seine, Hotel Square Louvois
Notre-Dame de Paris is a medieval Catholic cathedral on an island in the River Seine. This location lies within a UNESCO World Heritage site in the 4th arrondissement. But why is it unique?
Notre Dame is a 12th-century cathedral that stands out for its size, antiquity, and architectural value. It is the most famous of the Gothic cathedrals of the Middle Ages. In December 2024, Notre Dame reopened to the public following an extensive, 5-year restoration after a 2019 fire destroyed its spire, roof, and interior.
Photo by D.Bond on Shutterstock
The Notre Dame Cathedral is a Paris icon. Its construction started in the late 12th century and took nearly 200 years. This Gothic masterpiece sits along the picturesque River Seine and features intricate carvings and gargoyles. Visitors can learn about centuries of history and devotion from experts or enjoy panoramic views of the city from the rooftop of this grand cathedral.
4. Versailles Palace
Where to stay: Hotel Murat, Hotel Printania, Novotel Paris Porte De Versailles
Tip: Encourage your clients to visit in summer to attend weekend fountain shows in the chateau’s breathtaking gardens.
Versailles is about 10 miles southwest of Paris and hosts a sprawling palace. It is one of the world’s most visited historic sites, with around 10 million visitors annually. Why?
The Château de Versailles is steeped in history. It traces its opulence to the 1600s when a leading architect, painter, and landscape artist built the magnificent Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in the small village 35 miles outside Paris. First, King Louis XIII built a brick and stone lodge and two small palaces. Then, King Louis XIV visited the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte and loved this opulent architectural marvel. He hired the same team to transform the hunting lodge into his extravagant residence, the Château de Versailles. His team added the Hall of Mirrors, the chateau’s most popular attraction. The Royal Opera House was built under Louis XV.
Photo by Bartlomiej Rybacki on Shutterstock
The Château de Versailles was the seat of power and residence of several kings, making it a must-see in Paris. Visitors can walk in the footsteps of King Louis XIII, XIV, XV, and XVI. They can explore the venue where Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette got married and the Queen’s hamlet for entertaining guests. Louis XVI and Marie-Antoinette were forced out of the chateau during the French Revolution. Its rich history and beauty capture France’s royal past and artistic legacy. For many tourists, the Versailles Palace is a must-do in Paris.
5. Seine River
Where to stay: Hotel Touring, Hotel Regina Opéra Grands Boulevards, Hotel du Quai
The Seine flows through the heart of Paris, creating a natural boundary between the left or right bank neighborhoods. It is more than a nesting spot for nature lovers. Since the 3rd century, Parisians have relied on this river as a fishing ground. It is a reliable water supply, transportation route, and driver of the local economy. In 1991, this waterway became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It earned this distinction thanks to its cultural significance.
Photo by Grant Van Cleemput on Unsplash
Travelers can explore this attraction by booking a cruise. They can start the trip near the tower and cruise past Notre Dame, Musée d’Orsay, iconic bridges, charming quaysides, and islands. Some cruises provide mouthwatering meals, champagne tasting, and live music with the city’s romantic ambiance. Visitors can take photos along the banks or on one of Seine’s 37 beautiful bridges. They can also buy souvenirs, books, and handmade art from locals.
6. Musée d’Orsay
Where to stay: Hôtel Montholon Paris, Libertel Gare Du Nord Suede, Hotel Eden Opera
The Musée d’Orsay offers a comprehensive collection of impressionist works, perfect for art enthusiasts. This museum is located in a former railway station along the Left Bank. Visitors can explore paintings by world-famous artists, including Degas, Monet, Cezanne, and Van Gogh. It also displays artistic sculpture, photography, furniture, and decorative arts.
Photo by Luboslav Tiles on Shutterstock
Musée d’Orsay is a treasure trove of impressionist and post-impressionist art. Its galleries feature revolutionary 19th-century masterpieces, including Monet’s vibrant pieces and Van Gogh’s haunting portraits. It is attractive for travelers seeking fewer crowds. Visitors can explore Musée d’Orsay’s colorful painting collection and Belle Epoque architecture, a work of art in its own right. Then, they can climb to the museum’s topmost balcony to experience the breathtaking view of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica through the transparent clock. Its architecture and rich collection provide a captivating journey through historic art periods.
7. Champs-Élysées
Where to stay: Grand Hotel Champs-Élysées, Hôtel du Rond-Point des Champs-Élysées, Hotel Le Narcisse Blanc & Spa
The Champs-Élysées is a shoppers’ paradise. This famous boulevard stretches over a mile. Shoppers flock to this hotspot to access high-end products from iconic luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Chanel. Its wide, tree-lined streets also offer mid-priced stores in a bustling atmosphere and social scene. Locals and visitors interact and exchange culture and ideas. Window shopping along the Champs-Élysées is one of the free things to do in Paris.
Photo by john901 on Shutterstock
8. Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens)
Where to stay: Hôtel Elysa – Luxembourg, le 55 Montparnasse Hôtel, French Theory, Hotel Quartier Latin
The 56.8-acre Luxembourg Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Paris for friends and families with kids. This warm-weather oasis is known for its lawns, tree-lined promenades, tennis courts, and flowerbeds. Its ample green space is perfect for picnics, sunbathing, and socializing. The Luxembourg Gardens provides many children-friendly activities, including sailing model sailboats on its octagonal Grand Basin. Kids can also watch a puppet show at Theatre des Marionnettes, play sports on basketball and baseball courts, ride ponies, and enjoy the merry-go-round. Visiting this park is one of the fun things to do in Paris.
Photo by PHOTOCREO Michal Bednarek on Shutterstock
Another benefit of Jardin du Luxembourg is its relaxed, hassle-free environment. It is the perfect destination for anyone seeking a break from the city’s overwhelming crowds and bustling streets. The garden also hosts Musée du Luxembourg and 106 sculptures, including a replica of the Statue of Liberty.
As a travel agent, you can offer this attraction to clients seeking to relax away from crowds. Ensure you book quality accommodations near this garden with RateHawk.
9. Musée Rodin
Where to stay: Hotel de Suede Saint Germain, De Castiglione Hotel, Hôtel Delambre
Paris was home to the famed 19th-century sculptor Auguste Rodin. His former residence was transformed into an iconic museum and a top Paris attraction, the Musée Rodin. Visitors can sample Rodin’s 8,000 drawings and emotive sculptures, including The Thinker, Walking Man, and The Kiss. They can learn about the artist’s dedicated artworks of his muse and mistress, Camille Claudel, and world-famous masterpieces under one roof. This hidden jewel also offers pieces from Rodin’s personal art collection, including Van Gogh and Auguste Renoir paintings.
Photo by Isogood_patrick on Shutterstock
Although the Musée Rodin preserves a collection of 25,000 photographs, only 7,000 were collected by Rodin. The artist showcased his interest in science and art by collaborating with renowned photographers like Eugène Druet, Jacques-Ernest Bulloz, Adolphe Braun, and Edward Steichen. The museum’s beautiful gardens with lush greenery, manicured lawns, and serene atmosphere enhance the experience. Help your clients access and explore Rodin’s sculptures and other activities in Paris.
Your clients will need accommodations to explore Musée Rodin and other Paris attractions. Check and secure available rooms for your customers with RateHawk
10. Arc de Triomphe
Where to stay: Shangri-La, De Castiglione Hotel, La Villa Haussmann
Arc de Triomphe is one of the world’s largest triumphal arches. This towering monument at the western end of the Champs-Élysées was commissioned by Napoleon to honor the Grande Armee. Visitors are captivated by the arch’s intricately carved sculptures. They can learn the names of the battles and generals who fought during the First French Republic and Napoleon’s Empire. Then, visit the tomb of the Unknown Soldier to pay respect to all unidentified soldiers who lost their lives in World War I. The flame representing the soldiers’ sacrifice was lit in the 1920s and has not been extinguished for nearly 100 years. It is rekindled daily at 6:30 p.m. Visitors can admire the arch’s immense size from a distance or climb it to enjoy the city’s panoramic views.
Photo by fokke baarssen on Shutterstock
11. Montmartre
Where to stay: Le Relais Montmartre, Hôtel Bellevue Paris Montmartre, Hôtel Le Mireille, Hotel Marena
Montmartre is a bustling neighborhood perched on a hill overlooking Paris. It is home to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the vibrant Place du Tertre. Why is it unique?
The Montmartre neighborhood has something for everyone. Visitors can lose themselves in the winding streets and bustling squares with charming and bohemian spirit. Streets performers, artists, and dreamers deliver entertaining shows, immersing guests into Paris’ artistic soul. This vibrant atmosphere conveys the city’s creative energy.
Photo by Richie Chan on Shutterstock
The Sacré-Coeur, or “Sacred Heart,” towers over Montmartre like a white castle. This 19th-century Roman-Byzantine basilica attracts visitors thanks to its ornate ivory domes. After exploring this eclectic neighborhood, guests enjoy an immersive experience from the basilica’s interior décor. Its outdoor staircase and the dome’s 300th step provide breathtaking panoramic views. The ceiling features France’s largest mosaic, depicting Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, and Joan of Arc. Tourists can visit Sacré-Cœur from 10:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. to access the dome or attend daily mass.
12. Sainte-Chapelle
Where to stay: Les Patios du Marais, Hôtel Belloy Saint-Germain
Sainte-Chapelle attracts architecture lovers and religious pilgrims. This 13th-century chapel is known for its stained-glass windows, featuring 1,113 scenes from the Bible. Guests can learn about French Gothic architecture and Christian artifacts acquired by Louis IX. Its soaring nave and delicate rose windows create immersive experiences for visitors. Faith and artistic expression come alive as sunlight filters through the kaleidoscopic panes and depicts the lives of saints in vivid colors. Each window’s intricate carvings convey different stories captured by the artist.
Photo by Mitya Ivanov on Unsplash
13. Palais Garnier
Where to stay: Residhome Paris Opéra, Hotel Pax Opera, Grand Hotel Nouvel Opera
The Palais Garnier is an opulent architectural marvel, built from 1861 to 1875 with a 1,979-seat opera house. Emperor Napoleon III commissioned this building for the Opera National de Paris. Since the 1800s, the Opéra Garnier has retained its breathtaking Old-World interiors and proclaimed its opulence. Guests can learn how Gaston Leroux integrated real-life opera occurrences into his fiction, the “Phantom of the Opera,” fueling the opera’s mysteries.
Photo by Funny Solution Studio on Shutterstock
Tourists can buy ballet or opera tickets to experience the Opéra Garnier in all its glory. They can also join a guided tour to access this attraction without attending a performance. The opera charges €23 (about $25) for adults and €8 (around $9) for audio guides. Students and kids pay discounted rates. Visitors can also find bookstores, gift shops, and restaurants around the neighborhood to purchase the perfect souvenir or gift for loved ones back home.
14. Local culinary experiences
Where to stay: Generator Paris, Hotel Mademoiselle, Au Royal Mad Hotel, Hôtel Michelet Odeon
Paris offers more than historical and architectural wonders. It also caters to foodies thanks to its delicious food and snacks. Parisian cuisine includes baguettes, cheeses, the Opéra, croissant, croque-monsieur, macaron, entrecôte steak and chips, steak frites, and French onion soup. First, visit a boulangerie or patisserie to sample baked goods. Boulangeries sell breads and croissants, patisseries offer specialty pastries like pain au chocolate, escargot croissants, and pain au raisin. Paris is also known for its mouthwatering baguettes with crusty exterior and soft interior. Visitors can spread jam on their baguettes and eat it as a sandwich. Or dip it in the sauce of a paired dish. Artisan bakers produce quality baguettes.
Photo by Maria Onoper on Shutterstock
The Paris region produces cheeses from cow’s milk using their ancestral methods, ensuring unique softness. Popular local cheeses include the bries, known for their soft texture and distinctive flavor. In 1955, a pastry chef created a cake with coffee-flavored cream, coffee ganache, almond sponge, and generous chocolate topping. It is called the Paris Opera House (Palais Garnier) thanks to its geometric glossy finish. The Parisian macaron is a delicious round-shaped snack, perfect for a tea break. Other delicacies include croque-monsieur, onion soup, entrecôte steak and chips, and local beers such as the Parisienne, Môme, Charbonnière, Baleine, or Montreuilloise.
15. Paris flea markets
Where to stay: Source Hotel, ibis Styles Gare de l’Est Château Landon, 9Hotel Opera
Flea markets offer affordable, unique finds and delights, including vintage gems, antique furniture, retro clothing, and quirky collectibles. Their stalls and bustling atmosphere deliver an exhilarating shopping experience. To avoid crowds, tourists can visit Marché aux Puces de Vanves at the edge of the 14th district and Greater Paris. This peaceful flea market has about 400 vendors specializing in small household items, décor, jewelry, antique furniture, and clothes.
Photo by Elena Jiang on Unsplash
Visitors can check Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouennot for trinkets, vintage books, art, and collectibles. The bouquinistes (booksellers) have operated in this flea market for around 300 years. Then, they can visit Marché d’Aligre for food, vintage clothes, and decorative items. Foodies flock to this location from Tuesday to Sunday to soak up its unique atmosphere and buy meat, sushi, and drinks. Les Puces de Montreuil is perfect for vintage toys, clothes, old cutlery, light fittings, furniture, and antique glassware.
16. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Where to Stay: Ibis Styles Chaumeont Centre Gare, Hotel Le Royal
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is a beautiful hidden, wonderland in the heart of the 19th Arrondissement. Created in 1867 by order of Napoleon III, it is unlike any other park in Paris. It was once dark quarry but has since been transformed into a whimsical, romantic landscape of stunning cliffs, cascading waterfalls, suspended bridges, and a serene lake.
Photo by Daboost on Shutterstock
At Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, travelers can wander and explore winding paths that lead to steep hills, panoramic views over Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur and cross over the iron suspension bridge. They can also cross to the beautiful Temple de la Sibylle circular gazebo sitting on a rocky island.
Here, they can also enjoy quiet picnics, sunset photography, or a morning jog. They can under explore underneath the park, which lies a network of old gypsum and limestone quarries.
17. La Coulée verte René-Dumont
Where to stay: Hotel Malte-Astotel, Hotel Monterosa- Astotel
La Coulée Verte in Paris existed long before New York had the High Line. This lush, elevated garden trail is4.7 km above on a defunct 19th-century railway and stretches from Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes. This beautiful garden trail is perfect for nature lovers or travelers who want to feed their eyes with some beauty blended with industrial architecture.
Photo by kristof lauwers on Shutterstock
Here, travelers can stroll along beautiful manicured gardens, arches draped in ivy giving off something whimsical, bamboo groves, and modern art installations — all suspended above city traffic.
It’s a peaceful, green space that slices through the city, creating a nature-loving breath of fresh air for walkers, runners, or leisure strollers.
18. Canal Saint-Martin
Where to stay: Colorful in Pigalle, Cozy Studio in the Heart of the 9th Arrondissement
Canal Saint-Martin is one of the places for travelers to mix with Parisians. A place where Parisians come to relax, picnic, and people-watch, this place boasts charming waterways and footbridges and is lined with chestnut trees, vintage boutiques, and indie cafes. Originally commissioned by Napoleon I in 1802, it was created to provide fresh water to the city and now stretches 4.5 km through upbeat neighborhoods in the 10th and 11th arrondissements.
Photo by Alexander Demyanenko on Shutterstock
Travelers can enjoy a slow boat cruise under arched bridges, grab coffee from a local roaster or sit in many of the picturesque cafes along the waterways. They can also explore wine options for a sunset picnic along the quays. There are many bookstores, bakeries, and fashion-forward shops dotted along and tucked into side streets where travelers can pick up items to remind them of the beautiful Saint-Martin.
19. Les Catacombes
Where to stay: Magnificent Studio – 2P, Catacombes Triplex
A completely different experience from bright skies and romantic cafes, Les Catacombes features an eerie, chilling yet fascinating underworld. Stretching across a 200-mile network and lined with the bones of over six million people, it was created to address the problem of cemetery overflow.
Photo by Mikhail Gnatkovskiy on Shutterstock
Adventurous travelers can go down a narrow spiral staircase, see skulls and femurs forming macabre patterns across the limestone walls. For history lovers, Les Catacombes is a humbling tribute to history and a clear reminder of mortality, creating a unique insight into Paris and an unforgettable experience.
20. Moulin Rouge
Where to Stay: Hôtel Confort Le Moulin Rouge, Hôtel Grand Confort Le Moulin Rouge
Sequins, champagne, and sensational choreography. Everything from acrobatics, costumes, and a team of the most creative dancers in the world makes the Moulin Rouge an experience unlike any other in Paris.
Photo by Antonio Sessa on Unsplash
The iconic red windmill standing proudly in the Pigalle district since 1889 with its standing history of the Belle Époque nightlife, this wild celebratory cabaret is well known to have inspired artists like Toulouse-Lautrec and performers like Mistinguett.
Travelers can experience the Parisian decadence and theatrical flair, delve into lush art nouveau interiors and enjoy a sheer scale of spectacle that is unforgettable.
Enhance Paris tour experiences with RateHawk
What is Paris known for? Everything on this top 20 list defines Paris. However, the tower is the city’s most popular attraction. Analyze these must-visit sites and must-do Paris activities and select your favorite based on your clients’ needs. Accommodations and transportation can enhance or undermine the experience. As an agent, advisor, or agency, use RateHawk to book hotels near Paris tourist attractions and rental cars to help clients travel between these destinations.
At RateHawk, we help travel agents, advisors, and agencies enhance clients’ experiences. You can use our platform to access over 2.6 million hotels, flights, transfers, and car rentals. We also offer European train tickets.
To enhance your clients’ Paris tour experience, join RateHawk today!
