Paris is known as the City of Love and with so much to discover and see, it’s no wonder why. Paris is one of the most popular cities in the world, famous for its art, fashion and culture. The city is a must-see if you are planning a trip to Europe. Whether your interests lie in architecture or museums, food or nightlife, there’s something for everyone.
Here are 5 things you must do in Paris:
Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral
This iconic Parisian building has been a popular tourist destination since the Middle Ages. Standing at 125m (nearly 450ft) tall, the cathedral is a beautiful example of French Gothic architecture. One of the 12 medieval churches to have been rebuilt in Paris, Notre Dame is also one of the best-known churches in the world, placing it as one of the top things to do in Paris.
Inside, you will find a number of famous artifacts, including the famous ‘Miraculous Hymn’. The Paris City Tourist Office has a great guide on how to visit Notre Dame. The site’s history is fascinating, from its place of worship during the Middle Ages, to its role as a symbol of Parisian resilience during World War II, and more recently as a symbol of Paris’s bid for the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Eat a croissant and a macaron at Paris’ finest patisseries
In the City of Love, you can’t visit a bakery without stopping for a delicious, classic French treat: the Croissant and the Macaron. A Croissant is a soft, buttery and flaky marvel, while a Macaron is a tiny beauty with a crisp exterior and creamy center. The top patisseries in Paris have been making these treats since the Middle Ages, and they still do so today.
There are literally hundreds of these French delicacies fresh out of the oven, so be sure to stop by one of these famous Paris patisseries while you’re in town. Of course, there are other treats that you can’t find in any other city. Try a Paris-style Mille-Feuille, a layered pastry filled with almonds and chocolate, or French-style eclairs filled with custard.
Skim through the city’s must-see art galleries
If you are in Paris for only a few days, be sure to visit some of the city’s most famous art galleries. With the Louvre, Centre Pompidou, the Orsay Museum, and the Musée d’Orsay all in the city, you can easily navigate your way through the galleries. The Louvre is the most visited art gallery in the world, with over 8 million visitors per year, so this is a must-see. It’s one of the best things to do in Paris.
The Orsay Museum is also a beautiful art gallery and the Musée d’Orsay is a modern art museum that is also worth a visit. There are also a number of smaller galleries in Paris, many of which also host temporary exhibitions. These galleries are often located in less well-known areas of the city and are perfect for exploring by a Paris City Tourist Off the Beaten Path.
Drink coffee at one of Paris’ famed cafés
There are few places in the world quite like a Paris café. This classic city treat is a blend of the best parts of travel – unwinding in a beautiful space, sipping a delicious beverage and people-watching. Visit one of the city’s best-known cafés and you’ll feel like you’re in a picture-perfect Parisian scene. The terrace at Café de la Place des Vosges, the café at the Palais Royal, or one of the many cafés in Montmartre are all perfect places to enjoy a hot, Paris-style beverage.
If you’re in town on a weekday, with the right café, you can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a Paris day off. During the week, cafés are often quieter than on weekends, offering a chance to relax, read a book, or work on your laptop. Many cafés also offer free Wi-Fi, so you can get some work done even when you’re on vacation.
Take in a show or concert in one of the city’s top music venues
Paris is a city rife with culture and art and music are no exception. This means that you are sure to find one of the city’s best music venues to enjoy a great show or concert. One of the best things to do in Paris is to attend a concert or a play at one of the city’s top music venues.
There are many famous venues in the city, including the La Halle de St- Pierre, La Cigale, and L’Olympia. Your experience at a Paris music venue is sure to be memorable. Many of these venues are also ideal for a romantic date, as many are located in intimate spots. Some of the best places to go for a date in Paris are Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, and the Eiffel Tower.
Bottom line
Paris is one of the most culturally rich cities in the world and a must-see for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in architecture, art, food, nightlife, music, or shopping, you’ll find something here to intrigue you. The City of Love also has many beautiful gardens, parks, and monuments, making it a popular option for outdoor activities as well. For many, Paris is only a stop on their journey, but for those who make it their home, it’s the best thing to do in the world.
