By Rissa Gatdula-Lumontad
The City of Lights is more often than not at the top of most everyone’s bucket list when it comes to travel destinations. Its monuments, churches and museums are filled with world-class culture. The city is inherently romantic. Plus, shopping and food are also outstanding.
When that dream trip finally happens, the dilemma will be which of the many local attractions to do first in order to make the most of your trip. Here are my top choices of the top things to do in Paris.
More about Paris: Tips for Traveling Solo to Paris | What to Eat in Paris | What to Wear
1. Eiffel Tower
At one time considered the tallest structure in the world, you’ll see this most famous Paris icon from all over the city. But nothing beats seeing it up close, especially in the evenings when it’s illuminated. If you are up for a hike, go up the tower for a majestic view of the city (and some exercise if you take the stairs). You can also purchase a ticket to ride the elevator to the top, but expect lines.
2. Notre Dame
One of the largest and most renowned churches in the world, Notre Dame Cathedral is also one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. The cathedral is open to the public to come inside and look around or to worship, but also to climb the tower and enjoy the view from the top (which includes getting up close to the famous gargoyles and a great view of the city).
3. Disneyland Paris
Yes, there is room for a magical kingdom in this city of real life castles! And, as in Disneyland in other parts of the world, Disneyland Paris will surely capture the heart of every kid and kid at heart. You’ll find Disney characters, parades, Sleeping Beauty’s Castle and the rides you know and love from other Disney parks…all in Paris! Make sure to book your Disneyland Paris tickets in advance (you may chance upon special promotions, too!).
4. The Louvre
This museum is one of the largest and is the most visited in the world. Located in the center of Paris, this landmark is housed in the Louvre Palace, and prides itself on a collection of nearly 35,000 antiquities and pieces of art, most famous of which is the Mona Lisa. Pro tip: Get there early and go straight to the Mona Lisa because that’s where many of the crowds head. After that, explore at your leisure and don’t count on seeing everything as this museum is huge. It’s best to purchase your ticket in advance online or you can get a Paris Museum Pass, which will allow access to more than 60 museums and monuments without waiting in line.
5. Musee d’Orsay
From The Louvre, take the Solférino footbridge to cross the Seine to visit the Musée d’Orsay. This national museum houses a diverse collection of artwork dated between 1848 and 1914, including paintings, sculpture, decorative arts, photography, graphic arts and architecture. The building was the former Orsay railway station, and itself may be considered as the first work of art in the museum.
6.Sacre-Coeur Basilica
Located at the top of Montmartre, one of the highest hills in Paris, this basilica offers one of the best views of the city (but you actually can’t see the Eiffel Tower from the front of the church). The mosaic on its ceiling and its bell are both the largest in France. The basilica is open to visitors for free. From the basilica, you can also explore Montmartre—visit the painters of Place du Tertre, the rustic ambiance of the neighborhood, or find the Moulin Rouge.
7. Chateau de Versailles
A world heritage site, this is the most famous of all French palaces. This was the former hunting lodge of Louis XIII, later transformed and extended to house the seat of the royal court and the French government. The magnificent décor of the Royal Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors and the Chapel, and the beautiful French-style gardens with over 400 marble and bronze statues and grand fountains, are truly sights you should not miss. At certain times, the park features an impressive musical fountain show. You may purchase your tickets online.
8. Luxembourg Gardens
One of the finest and largest in Paris, this garden is adorned with a collection of statues dating between the 16th and 19th centuries. Boats and model yachts can be rented to sail in the artificial pond. For a unique experience, try fresh fruit harvested from the orchard.
9.The Catacombs
This underground ossuary houses the remains of about 6 million Parisians transferred from the Cemetery of the Innocents and other parish cemeteries beginning 1786. It takes about 45 minutes to visit the 2 kilometer underground tunnels leading you through dark passages—past millions of bones stacked to either side of you, but also past sculptures and plaques explaining the historical significance of this place.
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Photo credits:
View from Eiffel Tower: Oh Paris
Disneyland Paris: Jeremy Thompson
Château de Versailles: Ning J