HomeEuropean ToursFrance ToursParis Vacations

Top 7 Things to Do in Paris

Ratings of Zicasso's Service
Tourist with Arch de Triomphe in the background in Paris, France

Paris, France

A city of prestige and allure, the top seven things to do in Paris will immerse you in the charms of the city’s fame, grandeur, and culture.

From the Eiffel Tower to boutique chocolateries, lively markets to the Impressionist pieces displayed in the Musée d’Orsay, Paris has an unspeakable reputation accentuated by centuries of artistic expression, culinary aspiration, and fashionable suggestion.

The City of Light is timeless and represents a jewel of preserved heritage in the treasured pastries, flowing fountains, and elegant boutiques that line the historic cobblestone streets. Whether eager to wander catacombs or impressive neighborhoods, working with a travel specialist can help you experience the top things to do during your visit to Paris.

Overview
  1. 1. Celebrate Artistic Heritage and Tradition
  2. 2. Embrace Delectable Cuisine
  3. 3. Indulge in the Flavors of French Markets
  4. 4. Explore the Fascinating Neighborhoods
  5. 5. Uncover Exciting Shopping Experiences
  6. 6. Wander the Exceptional Gardens
  7. 7. Enjoy Palaces in and Around Paris
  8. Experience the Top Things to Do in Paris

1. Celebrate Artistic Heritage and Tradition

Petit Palais entrance in Paris, France

Paris, France

Cultural heritage and Paris are intertwined as the history of the city, the country, and the Mediterranean pulses with life. Art, architecture, and the evolution of civilization emerge as the city peels back the layers of the past, set beneath the cobblestone streets and engrained in the opulent architecture across the different arrondissements.

From the iconic tip of the Eiffel Tower to the unforgettable works displayed in the Louvre, contemporary art and Neoclassical palaces, each element adds to the heritage that makes Paris completely unique.

Best Places to Visit for Cultural Heritage: Musee Louvre | Musée d’Orsay | Petit Palais | Centre Pompidou | Arch de Triomphe | Eiffel Tower | Place de la Concorde

2. Embrace Delectable Cuisine

French fine cuisine in Paris

Paris, France

France is known for its sensational cuisine and Paris embodies the gastronomic traditions that reflect French culture, past and present.

Throughout the city, quintessential patisseries and chocolateries create rich aromas connected to the local neighborhoods, while brasseries and cafes provide access to the flavor of local life.

From cheese to wine, charcuteries to trendy new culinary concepts, you can embrace the authentic tastes of French cuisine on display in Paris.

Best Places to Visit for Food: Bourse and Sentier | Montmartre | Champs-Elysées | St-Germain-des-Prés | Canal Saint-Martin | Grand Boulevards

3. Indulge in the Flavors of French Markets

Fresh scallops at Marche des Enfants Rouges market in Paris

Paris, France

The markets of Paris embody variety and beauty, whether displaying seasonal ingredients, fashionable clothing, or beautiful flowers.

The best markets in the city exude a particular charisma authentic to their neighborhood, attracting specific types of shoppers from across the city.

From historic lanes lined with food to a flea market adorned with upwards of 3,000 traders, the markets embody a sense of history and local culture.

Best Markets to Visit: Marche des Enfants Rouges | Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen | Les Puces de Saint-Ouen | Le Marche International de Rungis

4. Explore the Fascinating Neighborhoods

Houses on narrow road in Montmartre district of Paris

Paris, France

Each arrondissement in Paris has its own fascinating culture and traditions that provide different perspectives on Parisian personalities.

Each neighborhood reinvents itself across generations as innovative restaurants move in, art galleries represent changing artists, and unique retailers provide insight into the shifting contemporary trends.

You can find an infusion of dynamic history and new energy, tradition and joie de vivre to enjoy a tapestry of characters.

Best Neighborhoods for a Walking Tour: Le Marais |  Saint-Germain-des-Prés | Montmartre | Latin Quarter | Montparnasse | The Marais

5. Uncover Exciting Shopping Experiences

 Boulevard Haussmann in Paris, France

Boulevard Haussmann, Paris, France

Impeccable fashion is indelibly connected to Paris as the epicenter of global trends, design, and style. No matter the neighborhood, Parisians exemplify the beauty of clothing and embody style as they reveal the boutiques, stores, and districts that brim with shops that can make shopping an effortless and joyful experience.

From famous fashion houses to unknown designers, you can embrace the splendor of Parisian style or find your own taste as you explore the concept stores, arcades, and unforgettable boutiques.

Best Neighborhoods for Shopping: Louvre and Tuileries District | Boulevard Haussmann | Place de la Madeleine | The Marais | Champs-Elysées | St-Germain-des-Prés

6. Wander the Exceptional Gardens

Jardin du Luxembourg and palace, Paris, France

Paris, France

The parks and gardens across Paris provide exceptional greenery and color in the heart of the expansive city.

Rows of roses, lush trees, and serene ponds add to its luster, creating quiet corners where locals can enjoy a piece of the country without ever leaving Paris.

Elegant statues, opulent landscaping, and regal connections offer an escape from the fast pace of the city streets for a more relaxing experience connected to the magic of nature.

Best Gardens to Visit: Jardin des Plantes | Jardin du Luxembourg | Coulée Verte | Jardin du Palais Royal | Jardin des Tuileries

7. Enjoy Palaces in and Around Paris

Palace Versailles in Paris, France

Palace Versailles in Paris, France

Castles and palaces represent opulence and Paris embodies grandeur as the home of architectural wonders that span centuries.

Fortified castles, Renaissance residences, and secret estates establish a regal ambiance that overlaps eras to combine remarkable architecture with captivating history.

Whether gardens adorned with fountains or elaborate halls decorated with gilded mirrors, you can walk in the footsteps of kings, queens, archbishops, and aristocracy.

Best Palaces to Visit: Palace Versailles | Palace Saint-Germain en Laye | Château de Rambouillet | Domaine de Saint-Cloud | Château de Vincennes

Experience the Top Things to Do in Paris

Paris street with view of Eiffel Tower in France

Paris, France

What you do during your Paris trip will influence how you remember your overall experience. Whether interested in dining in the Michelin-starred restaurant in the Eiffel Tower or eager to bicycle through the Versailles Gardens, you can embrace a personalized trip tailored to your travel preferences, needs, and goals.

Visit our Paris Vacation Packages & Tours for inspiration on how to craft your best custom trip including one or more of these top things to do in Paris.

Your Dream Vacation

in 3 simple steps

  1. 1

    Describe your dream trip

  2. 2

    Get matched with top travel specialists

  3. 3

    Book the trip

Free service - no credit card required

Get Top Travel Specialists to Help Plan Your Trip