Bonjour et bienvenue à Paris! The city of lights, Paris holds a special allure for travellers worldwide, beckoning with its rich history, and iconic landmarks. Whether you're a seasoned Francophile or a first-time visitor, the streets of Paris promise an unforgettable adventure.
But with so much to see and do, where do you start? Worry not, dear traveller This blog is your one-stop guide to the best 10 things to do in Paris, France.
We'll delve into hidden gems and must-see classics, and share local tips to navigate the city like a pro.
Top things to do in Paris with Family
Ready to explore the wonders of Paris? Our guide unveils the city's best family activities in Paris, from captivating museums to thrilling adventures. We'll also reveal insider tips for magical evenings, ensuring your Parisian getaway is fun and unforgettable. Let's unlock the city of lights together, one family activity in Paris at a time!
Explore the Louvre Museum
One of the top activities in Paris is exploring the Musée du Louvre or more simply the Louvre Museum. One of the largest museums worldwide, it is an iconic landmark that houses nearly thousands of objects from prehistory to the 19th century. and exhibited over an area of around 60,000 square metres, and it contains its objects and works of art in eight curatorial departments. Visiting the Louvre is one of the best things to do in Paris with family and friends or even solo, as it has something for everyone.
Time to visit: The Louvre Museum extends its hours on Fridays, staying open from 9:00 AM to 9:45 PM. Otherwise, the museum is open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM and closed on Tuesdays.
Location: 75001 Paris, France.
Tickets: The Louvre is free for all visitors on the first Friday of the month after 6 PM, except in July and August and on 14 July! For the rest of the free entry options into the Louvre, please check the official website. Other than that, a general admission ticket will cost you €22, it is advised to book your tickets online as the Louvre is currently renovating some of its exhibitions, so check out their website and see what will be available on the day you plan to visit.
Visit The Eiffel Tower
Soaring 300 metres above Paris, the Eiffel Tower isn't just an iconic landmark; it's an experience. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair, this iron masterpiece defied expectations, becoming a beloved symbol of the City of Lights. Immerse yourself in panoramic views from the top during the daytime or visit it in the evenings, as it is one of the best activities or things to do in Paris at night. Witness the magical transformation at night when thousands of lights illuminate the Parisian skyline.
Time to visit: The Eiffel Tower operates daily from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM. To minimise visitor congestion, consider visiting during January, February, October, or November. Additionally, the least crowded time slots are between 9 AM and 11 AM and 8 PM and 10:30 PM.
Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.
Tickets: You can purchase tickets for the Eiffel Tower through their online website.
Climb The Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch in Paris, France. It is situated at the western end of the Champs-Élysées and at the centre of Place Charles de Gaulle, formerly named Place de l'Étoile. The Arc de Triomphe was commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, after his victory at the Battle of Austerlitz.
It was designed by Jean-François Thérèse Chalgrin and Jean-Arnaud Raymond, and construction began in 1806. The arch was not completed until 1836, 15 years after Napoleon's death.
The Arc de Triomphe is 50 metres high, 45 metres wide, and 22 metres deep. It is made of limestone and sandstone and is decorated with sculptures depicting the victories of the French army.
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, and visiting it is one of the top activities in Paris. You can climb the Arc de Triomphe for one of the best panoramic views of Paris.
Time to visit: Opening hours for Arc de Triomphe are from April 1st to September 30th between 10 AM to 11 PM and from October 1st to March 31 between 10 AM to 10:30 PM
Location: Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.
Tickets: Individual access is €16. However, the Arc de Triomphe offers free tickets to people who meet certain criteria like: People under 18 years old and 18-25 EU French nationals People with a valid French Education Pass Disabled persons and his/her companions The first Sunday of January, February, March, November and December and military personnel.
For more information on free tickets, visit the official Arc de Triomphe website.
Playing in Disneyland Paris
By far the best thing to do in Paris with family is to plan a visit to Disneyland, a magical realm where childhood dreams come true. This European counterpart to the original Disneyland in California, Disneyland Paris offers an enchanting escape for visitors of all ages. Fly through space in their Avengers and Star Wars rides, or take part in the Star Tours, Indiana Jones or Twilight-themed adventures!
Time to visit: Disneyland Paris's opening hours are 9:30 AM to 10:00 PM, and Walt Disney Studios opening hours are from 9:30 AM to 9:00 PM (Note: Schedules are subject to change – Please check the updated schedules on the official website before visiting)
Location: Bd de Parc, 77700 Coupvray, France.
Tickets: Disneyland Paris has generally two types of tickets:
Dated tickets, which means you'll need to choose a specific date for your visit. This is helpful if you have a set itinerary and know exactly when you want to be at the park. Ticket prices depend on a few factors:
Number of parks: Choose between a 1-park ticket or a 2-park ticket, to access Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.
Number of days: If you choose a 2-park ticket, you can plan your visit between 1 to 4 days.
Here's a breakdown of the prices:
1-Park ticket: €56.00
2-Park ticket:
1 day: €81.00
2 days: €71.00
3 days: €67.00
4 days: €59.00
And undated tickets are tickets that are valid for 1 year from the date of purchase they can be redeemed at any time they cost:
Adults:
1 Park: €105.00
2 Parks: €130.00
Children (3-11 years old):
1 Park: €97.00
2 Parks: €122.00
Children under 3 years old: Free entry
Learn the History of the world at the National Library of France
The National Library of France, or Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF), is a true treasure trove of knowledge and history. Founded in 1483, the library has around 180,000 manuscripts, an enormous collection of prints, and collections of maps, drawings and paintings, sheet music, phonograph records, and medals and antiques
Time to visit: Apart from Monday, the general public library is open on all days for everyone aged 14 and over and between 10 AM to 8 PM.
Location: Quai François Mauriac, 75706 Paris, France.
Tickets: Entry to the reading rooms is free from 5 PM to 8 PM. Apart from that, the ticket options for the National Library of France are
1-day reading ticket that costs €5
Unlimited BnF reading/culture pass that costs €24. The pass offers access to the general public library, the museum, exhibitions, concerts and live shows. It is also valid for one year.
For more information, be sure to check the official National Library of France website.
Stroll Through The Musée d'Orsay
The Musée d'Orsay, a Parisian jewel nestled on the left bank of the Seine, opposite the Tuileries Garden, offers an immersive journey into the world of Impressionist and Post-impressionist art. Housed within the magnificent Beaux-Arts structure of the former Gare d'Orsay, a grand railway station built for the 1900 World's Fair, the museum itself is a breathtaking architectural marvel. Its vast collections, comprising thousands of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photographs, spanning from 1848 to 1914, showcase the artistic brilliance of that era.
Time to visit: The Musée d'Orsay is open from Tuesday to Sunday between 9:30 AM to 6 PM It is closed on Monday and it closes on Thursday at 9:45 PM.
Location: Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, 75007 Paris, France.
Tickets: Here's a breakdown of your options for free and paid entry:
For free admission, you need to meet certain criteria, here are some of the most notable ones:
Every 1st Sunday of the month
Visitors under 18 years old
18-25-year-old nationals or long-term residents of an EU country
People with a valid French Education Pass
Disabled visitors with one accompanying person
For the rest of the free admission options, please visit the official website.
Paid Admission:
Individual online ticket: €16
Individual booth ticket: €14
Onsite Reduced price:11€
Online Night rate (Thursdays from 6 p.m.): €12
Onsite Night rate(Thursdays from 6 p.m.): €10
Online Child & Companion Price:€13
Onsite Child & Companion Price: €11
For more information on the criteria for the reduced price, please visit the official website.
Pro tip: While booth tickets are slightly cheaper, online booking is highly recommended to avoid long queues, especially during peak season.
Lose yourself in the music at Le Gore
One of the best things to do in Paris at night is to visit Le Gore, a concert hall located in Paris, France. It is known for its eclectic programming, which includes jazz, rock, electronic music, and more.
Le Gore was founded in 2014 by two friends, who wanted to create a space where people could come together to enjoy music and culture. The venue has quickly become a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
Time to visit: The Jazz show starts at 11:59 PM every day
Location: 1 Av. Corentin Cariou, 75019 Paris, France.
Tickets: Tickets for the Le Gore Jazz shows are between €5 to € 15 depending on which show you want, so check the Le Gore official website.
things to do in Paris for free
Discover the vibrant side of the city of lights with our top picks for free things to do in Paris. Buckle up and prepare to experience art, history, charm, and romance - all without breaking the bank!
A Walk Along The Seine River
A walk along the Seine River is truly the best free activity to do in Paris. Witness iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, and Eiffel Tower reflected in its shimmering waters. Capture picture-perfect moments with the golden hues of sunrise or the twinkling city lights at dusk.
Time to visit: The best time to visit the Seine River is during sundown, so you can truly enjoy the scenery.
Visit the Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre (Sacre-Coeur)
Another thing to do in Paris for free is to visit the Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre. Though a religious landmark, it is also a multi-faceted tourist destination offering breathtaking views, artistic charm, and a unique glimpse into Parisian history and culture. You can expect a multitude of activities at the Sacred Heart Basilica of Montmartre, including a 360° virtual tour, an Audio Tour and many more!
Time to visit: Open every day without exception from 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Location: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France.
Tickets: General admission to the Basilica of Montmartre is free of charge.
Walk and Enjoy the scenery at the Jardin Du Luxembourg
If we talk about free activities in Paris, then a walk in the park is right up that alley. Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Luxembourg Gardens offer a tranquil oasis amidst the vibrant city. This sprawling 62-acre park is a captivating tourist destination, enchanting visitors with its diverse attractions and serene atmosphere. The Luxembourg Gardens has a variety of activities to choose from, such as treasure hunts, following the trail of the 102 sculptures in the park, guided tours, concerts, and many more. For the full list of available activities, please visit the official Jardin Du Luxembourg website.
Time to visit: As the opening hours for the Luxembourg Gardens change every 15 days or so, please check the official website before visiting.
Location: 75006 Paris, France.
Tickets: The Luxembourg Gardens are free to enter for all people making it one of the best things to do in Paris for free.
Trip To Paris preparations
Before embarking on your Paris trip you may have a few questions in mind, so join us as we answer the most common questions about the city of light:
Q. How much budget is required for the Paris Trip?
There's no single answer to how much you'll need for your Paris trip as it depends entirely on your travel style and preferences. To estimate your budget, you need to factor in things like what type of flights, accommodation, food, activities, and transportation you would like.
Q. What is the best time to visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris depends on what you're looking for in your trip! Spring (March-May):
Pros: Pleasant weather with blooming flowers, fewer crowds than summer, and some special events like the Paris Marathon.
Cons: It can still be rainy at times, and some cafes and restaurants may have limited hours outside of peak season.
Summer (June-August):
Pros: Warm weather, long daylight hours, and outdoor activities like picnicking in parks and enjoying outdoor cafes. Many cultural events and festivals also take place during this time.
Cons: Peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodation. It can also be hot and humid at times.
Autumn (September-November):
Pros: Comfortable temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and fewer crowds than in summer.
Cons: Some rainy days are possible, and some cafes and restaurants may have shorter hours.
Winter (December-February):
Pros: Festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and decorations and the Paris Fashion Week around late February.
Cons: Cold weather, shorter daylight hours, and some attractions may have limited hours.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Paris is whenever it works best for you and your budget! Consider what factors are most important to you and choose the season that best suits your needs.
Q. How to Reach Paris?
There are several ways to reach Paris, depending on your budget, timeframe, and preferences. Here's a breakdown of the most common options:
By Air:
Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG): The largest and busiest airport, located in the northeast of Paris.
Orly Airport (ORY): The smaller of the two main airports, located in the south of Paris.
Beauvais–Tillé Airport (BVA): Primarily used by low-cost airlines, located in the north of Paris.
This is the most convenient way to get to Paris but also the most expensive, especially during peak season
By Train:
It is a comfortable and scenic way to travel to Paris from many European cities, particularly if you're coming on the Eurostar high-speed train.
Pros: Relaxing and scenic journey. You can avoid airport hassle.
Cons: Can be slower than flying, and train tickets can be expensive depending on the route and time of booking.
By Bus:
A more budget-friendly option, especially for shorter distances within Europe. Several bus companies offer connections to Paris from various European cities.
Pros: Affordable option, good for short distances.
Cons: Can be slow and uncomfortable, especially for long journeys.
By Car:
It offers flexibility and freedom, especially if you plan to explore other parts of France.
Pros: Flexibility and freedom, scenic route depending on your starting point.
Cons: Can be expensive due to gas, tolls, and parking, traffic congestion in Paris.
Q. What is Paris Best Known for?
The city of lights is renowned for its iconic landmarks, rich history, romantic atmosphere, and delectable cuisine.
Q. Is Paris's unlimited pass worth it?
The Paris Unlimited Pass, also known as the Paris Visite Pass, lets the holder enjoy unlimited travel in Paris and the Île-de-France region, using all of the public transport networks. It is valid for up to 5 consecutive days which makes it a great option for tourists visiting Paris.
Q. Where is the Best Location for Tourists to stay in Paris?
It highly depends on your preferences and what you are looking for during your stay. But, here are a few recommendations to keep in mind:
This is the ideal hotel for first-time Paris travellers, as it offers easy access to sightseeing spots, iconic landmarks and all the top things to do in Paris.
The Timhotel Invalides offers easy access to the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, and the Grand French Museum.
A budget traveller's dream! The Mercure Paris Porte de Pantin is within walking distance from the Parc de la Villette, one of the largest parks in all of Paris.
Whether you are looking for a budget stay in Paris, or the most luxurious stay possible, Almosafer has got you covered.
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