15 Unforgettable Things to Do in Paris, France for the Ultimate Trip
Ah, Paris — the City of Light, love, and endless charm. I’ve visited many cities, but there’s something about Paris that feels like poetry in motion.
From the romantic Seine River to the cobblestone lanes of Montmartre, this city wraps you in elegance, art, and history. Whether you’re sipping coffee in a quiet corner café, standing in awe beneath the Eiffel Tower, or simply walking along the Seine as the city glows at golden hour — Paris is pure magic.
If you’re planning your first trip (or your fifth!) and wondering where to start, here are 15 unforgettable things to do in Paris that made my journey so special.
1. Marvel at the Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. It’s iconic, romantic, and even more beautiful in real life. You can picnic in the nearby Champ de Mars, take elevator rides to the top, or simply admire it from the Trocadéro Gardens.
I recommend going at sunset — the view of Paris turning golden from the summit is truly unforgettable. And don’t miss the sparkle show!
Every hour after dusk, the tower twinkles for five magical minutes. Whether you’re seeing it from afar or up close, the Eiffel Tower embodies the spirit of Paris: elegant, bold, and endlessly charming.
2. Stroll Through Montmartre
Montmartre is like stepping into a painting. This hilltop neighborhood in the 18th arrondissement was once home to Picasso, Van Gogh, and Toulouse-Lautrec — and you can feel that bohemian energy as you explore.
Climb the steps to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Then wander through Place du Tertre, where artists set up easels and sketch portraits. The cobblestone streets are lined with quaint cafés and bakeries.
I spent hours just getting lost in the charm, stopping for coffee and croissants along the way. Montmartre is slower-paced and full of character — perfect for a dreamy afternoon.
3. Explore the Louvre Museum
Even if you’re not a big museum-goer, the Louvre will wow you. It’s the world’s largest art museum, home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and thousands of other masterpieces.
The building itself — a former royal palace — is a work of art. I highly recommend booking a timed-entry ticket to avoid long waits. The Louvre is massive, so don’t try to see everything in one go.
I chose one or two sections to explore deeply (hello, Renaissance art!) and then relaxed in the courtyard near the glass pyramid. Art lovers could spend days here, but even a short visit is unforgettable.
4. Take a Seine River Cruise
One of my favorite experiences in Paris was a twilight cruise on the Seine. Floating past Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Musée d’Orsay as the sun set behind the city was absolutely magical.
You can opt for a simple boat ride or a full dinner cruise — I did the latter and enjoyed wine, French cuisine, and live music as we drifted through the city lights.
Most cruises depart from near the Eiffel Tower or Pont Neuf. If you’re visiting with a partner, this is incredibly romantic. Even solo, it’s a peaceful and scenic way to see the city from a new angle.
5. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral
Even after the fire in 2019, Notre-Dame remains one of the most inspiring places in Paris. You can still view the Gothic façade, famous rose windows, and its position along the Seine.
Reconstruction is underway, but the cathedral’s presence remains powerful. There are nearby spots where you can learn about its history and admire its beauty from across the river — Square Jean XXIII is my favorite viewing point.
The story of resilience in rebuilding it is part of what makes visiting so emotional. I found it a deeply moving experience, even from the outside.
6. Wander Through the Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is vibrant, historic, and full of energy. It’s home to the Sorbonne University, so the area buzzes with students, bookshops, and jazz cafés.
I loved exploring Rue Mouffetard — one of Paris’s oldest streets — packed with market stalls and street food. Shakespeare and Company, the world-famous English-language bookstore, is also here and feels like a fairytale.
Grab a crêpe, walk through the winding alleys, and sit with a book in the Luxembourg Gardens nearby. It’s youthful, intellectual, and artistic — a side of Paris that feels both timeless and alive.
7. Relax in Luxembourg Gardens
If you’re looking for a peaceful break in between sightseeing, head to Jardin du Luxembourg. This stunning park in the 6th arrondissement is where Parisians go to relax, read, and people-watch.
It’s beautifully landscaped with fountains, sculptures, tree-lined paths, and even a pond where kids sail toy boats. I brought a baguette and cheese and had a perfect solo picnic under the chestnut trees.
There are plenty of green chairs where you can sit and soak up the atmosphere. It’s a great place to reflect, journal, or simply admire how beautifully the French do leisure.
8. Shop and Dine on the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is one of the world’s most famous avenues — and for good reason. Stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, it’s lined with theaters, luxury boutiques, cafés, and flagship stores like Louis Vuitton and Sephora.
Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth the stroll. I grabbed a coffee at Ladurée (their macarons are legendary!) and people-watched for hours.
The street is especially magical during the holidays when it’s decked out in lights. It’s the glitzy, fashionable side of Paris and gives you a glimpse into the city’s haute couture lifestyle.
9. Climb the Arc de Triomphe
At the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
You can admire it from the ground, but I highly recommend climbing to the top. It’s 284 steps up, but the view is worth every one. From the top, you can see straight down twelve avenues radiating out like a star — including a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower.
There’s also a small museum inside that explains its history. It’s one of my favorite vantage points in Paris — especially at sunset.
10. Eat Your Way Through Le Marais
Le Marais is a hip, historic neighborhood that’s become a foodie heaven. Here you’ll find Jewish bakeries, falafel stands, trendy cafés, and elegant French restaurants — all side by side. Rue des Rosiers is especially known for its mouthwatering falafel (L’As du Fallafel is legendary).
I also explored vintage shops, small galleries, and boutiques with handmade goods. The vibe here is cool but laid-back. It’s also rich in history, with beautiful architecture and several small museums like the Musée Carnavalet and the Picasso Museum. If you love good food and local charm, Le Marais is a must.
11. Visit Sainte-Chapelle
Often overshadowed by Notre-Dame, Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic gem hidden on the Île de la Cité. Inside, you’ll find walls made almost entirely of stained glass — 1,113 individual panels that tell biblical stories in vibrant color.
When the sunlight pours through, the whole chapel glows like a jewel box. It’s smaller than other churches, but so breathtaking.
I booked a skip-the-line ticket online and went early to beat the crowds. Don’t skip the upper chapel — it’s the real star. For lovers of history, art, or architecture, this is one of the most awe-inspiring places in the city.
12. Watch the Sunset from Montparnasse Tower
If you want the best view of the Eiffel Tower, go up the Montparnasse Tower instead. It’s less crowded than the Eiffel and gives you a panoramic view of the entire city — including the tower itself standing proudly in the skyline.
The observation deck is on the 56th floor, and there’s even a rooftop terrace for clear photos. I went up at golden hour and watched the sun dip behind the Paris rooftops. It’s peaceful, less touristy, and just as breathtaking. There’s also a café if you want to sip wine while enjoying the view.
13. Discover the Catacombs of Paris
For something a little darker but fascinating, head underground to the Catacombs of Paris. This eerie tunnel network holds the remains of over six million Parisians — arranged in elaborate patterns of bones and skulls.
It’s a powerful, humbling place that tells a different side of the city’s history. I booked an early morning ticket to avoid the line and recommend bringing a sweater (it’s chilly down there!). There are informative plaques that explain how and why the catacombs were created.
It’s haunting, respectful, and definitely unforgettable. Not for the faint of heart, but truly one of the most unique experiences in Paris.
14. Take a Day Trip to Versailles
If you have an extra day, the Palace of Versailles is just a 45-minute train ride from Paris and absolutely worth it.
This former royal residence is the definition of opulence — with glittering halls, massive chandeliers, and rooms that look like they came out of a fairytale. The Hall of Mirrors alone is breathtaking.
But what I loved even more were the gardens — sprawling, manicured, and filled with fountains, sculptures, and hidden pathways. You can even rent a bike or a rowboat! It’s an easy day trip and gives you a deeper understanding of French history and royal extravagance.
15. Enjoy Parisian Café Culture
Sometimes, the best thing to do in Paris is… nothing at all. Sit at a café, order an espresso or a glass of wine, and just be. Watch the city move around you — couples holding hands, locals walking dogs, friends laughing over lunch.
There’s no rush, no pressure. Café culture is a way of life here. My favorite spots were in Saint-Germain-des-Prés and near Canal Saint-Martin, where the atmosphere is trendy but relaxed.
Bring a book, strike up a conversation, or just people-watch. These quiet, unplanned moments are where Paris really comes alive.
Final Thoughts
Paris isn’t just a city — it’s a feeling. It’s a slow, romantic, reflective kind of place that leaves a mark on your heart. Whether you’re here for art, food, history, or simply the experience of being in one of the world’s most iconic destinations — there’s always more to explore. I hope this list helps you fall in love with Paris the way I did.
