Concise Guide to
Top Attractions in Paris

There are a lot to choose from,
so let's get started!

Take the time to explore each of these top attractions in Paris and you won't have to worry that you're missing any of the fun.

You can expect to visit two or three attractions a day, leaving time to catch a leisurely lunch or relax in a park.

When planning your attractions in Paris itinerary, take into account that you'll have to travel between points and you'll probably get distracted, lost or hungry in between.

Major attractions like the Louvre will require more of a time commitment, but don't worry, even if you have a half day, you can see many of the highlights of the world's most loved art museum.

Disneyland Paris is another place that will take more time, but you can see it in just one day using our Paris Insider tips. If you're in doubt on where to start to plan for Disneyland, read the Disneyland Paris Guide »

The Eiffel Tower

Here's an Insiders secret — the best view of the Eiffel Tower is across the river on the Right Bank.

Start at the terrace of the Palais de Chaillot on the Place du Trocadero. Then cross the Seine to approach the Iron Grande Dame.

If you're a savvy traveler, you'll have booked your tickets online before you left home. Or, better yet, booked a guided tour to take you right past the ticket lines! You can get to the summit of the tower quickly and still have time to explore the Champs de Mars.

Paris Insiders Complete Guide to The Eiffel Tower »

Notre Dame Cathedral Towers

Notre Dame has overlooked Paris from Ile de la Cité since the thirteenth century, and it looks just as magnificent today.

Expect to spend less than an hour in Notre Dame Cathedral but add an extra hour to climb the steps of the tower. It's worth the effort to see a gargoyle's view of Paris!

Afterwards, take some time for a leisurely walk on the Islands of Paris — Ile de la Cité and Ile St. Louis.

Free Entrance to the Towers with a Paris Museum Pass »
Or 8.50€ at the door.

Paris Insiders Guide to Notre Dame »

Palais Garnier Opera House

Spend a hour admiring the gilt decorations and grand staircases of this incredible Belle Époque building.

And don't miss the view from the deck overlooking the bustling streets below.

Although Palais Garnier is not often used for operas (they are usually staged at the new opera house, Opera de la Bastille), it is the home of Paris ballet, and attending a performance while you're there will be a highlight of your trip.

Sacré Coeur – The Attraction on the Hill

Sacré Coeur is the big white church that dominates the skyline of Paris from its perch on top of Montmartre.

The highlight of the church is the view from the dome. Try to see it either at dusk or dawn. Plan to spend a hour or two at the basilica and then wander over to Rue des Abbesses for a taste of Montmartre village life. Entrance to Sacré Coeur is free, and there is a small fee to access the dome.

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Seine River Cruises

Top Attractions In Paris

You'll see a different view of Paris from the middle of the Seine. (Thankfully, you'll be in a boat!) A typical river boat cruise takes about an hour. Afterward, wander along the banks of the Seine to the Musée d'Orsay or to the Tuileries Garden.

By the way a free half-hour Seine river cruise is included with the Paris City Passes. (Or it costs 12€ at the dock.)

There are quite a number of Seine river cruises — from a day out with the family to a romantic dinner cruise for two.

Complete Guide to Seine River Cruises »
Musée d'Orsay — Free Entrance with the Paris Museum Pass »
Or 12€ at the door.

Louvre Art Museum

It's the most famous museum in the world, and you'll want to visit the Louvre.

But don't just show up at the door! Avoid the long line-up by having a Paris Museum Pass with you.

We recommend you get the Museum Pass as part of a combined Paris City Pass. This will give you free entrance to over 60 museums, a river cruise, a wine tasting, plus unlimited rides on the Metro.

If you don't want a pass, you can just purchase a Louvre ticket in advance and waltz in like a VIP. Plan to spend about 4 hours at the Louvre, minimum.

Arc de Triomphe – Top Attractions in Paris

This triumphal arch was commissioned by Napoleon as an homage to the armies of France (and of himself, of course).

It's located at the top of Champs Elysées in the center of the Place de l'Etoile — the world's first organized traffic circle. The view is spectacular and afterwards you can stroll down the Champs Elysées towards Place de la Concorde. Plan to spend an hour once you arrive at the Arc de Triomphe.