Countless travelers from around the world flock to Paris each year – in search of romance, to explore tiny cafes dotted throughout the sprawling city, and to experience an authentic taste of Parisian life. With its world renowned museums and landmarks, Paris promises travelers adventure and the experience of a lifetime.
As you plan your travels, be sure to consider adding the top 7 things to see and to do in Paris to your itinerary.
#1 The Eiffel Tower
Perhaps the very symbol of the city itself, the Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly a must visit for any traveler – whether it’s your first visit or your 10th visit to Paris. Allot plenty of time to visit each of the tower’s three floors. Either enjoy the comfort of the elevator as you lift to the second and third floors or embrace the challenge of walking the tower’s stairs to the very top. Grab a snack or have a luxurious meal during your visit and, once you reach the top, be prepared to catch your breath as you look out over the masterpiece that is Paris. Don’t forget to stop at the champagne bar at the top to enjoy a toast to the City of Lights and Love.
#2 The Louvre
Home to the one of the world’s most famous pieces of art – Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa – the Louvre welcomes travelers from around the globe on a daily basis. Stroll through the Louvre with your travel mates or join one of the regular daily guided tours where a tour guide will lead you through a historic tour of artifacts dating back to the 1600s. Be prepared to spend the day at the world famous Parisian landmark, which also features a dozen and a half restaurants and cafes, providing the ideal opportunity to have a formal sit down meal, a quick bite, or to grab something tasty to take with you. The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays. Plan your trip to the Louvre by starting here http://www.louvre.fr/en/expositions/winged-victory-samothracerediscovering-masterpiece.
#3 Notre Dame
Arguably one of the world’s most famous Catholic churches, Notre Dame’s history dates back to 1345. A stunning example of French Gothic architecture, the cathedral features towering gargoyles, hand carved wooden pews, and bell towers. Challenge yourself to walk up the 400 stairs to the bell towers where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Paris and the gargoyles up close. Evening visits are also welcome with the cathedral featuring audiovisual presentations. Be sure to check Notre Dame’s mass and concert schedules to experience the cathedral’s magnificence firsthand. Visitors may also schedule an appointment with a priest prior to their visit. Learn more about all Notre Dame has to offer at: http://www.notredamedeparis.fr/rubrique2.html.
#4 The Arc de Triomphe
Perhaps just as famous as the road upon which it sits – the Champs-Élysées – the Arc de Triomphe proudly stands as another symbol of Paris, visited by countless travelers annually. A memorial to all the soldiers who have died defending France and the brainchild of Napoleon, within the Arc de Triomphe is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Experience living history as every night at 6:30 p.m., the Memorial Flame is relit in honor of the country’s warriors. Reach the Arc de Triomphe from an underground tunnel, rather than risking crossing the traffic circle, which starts at the Metro’s Wagram exit. Enjoy a stunning view from the top, but be prepared to climb the 40 steps – it’s the only way up and down. Find out more by visiting http://arc-de-triomphe.monuments-nationaux.fr/en/.
#5 Disneyland
As you stroll through the entrance to Disneyland Paris, you enter the magical world of Disney, where children’s eyes open in awe and adults embrace their childhood selves. Stay on Disney property at one of the luxurious hotels, all within walking distance to the park, including Disney’s Hotel New York, Hotel Santa Fe, and Sequoia Lodge. Pack your autograph books and cameras because you’ll come face to face with all of Disney’s beloved characters: Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Goofy and even the lovable Peter Pan. Embrace adventure as you explore such attractions as Alice’s Curious Labyrinth and Adventure Isle. Top off the day by visiting the dining spots dotting the park, enjoying American-style burgers, pizza and Tex-Mex then finish the day with an old-fashioned ice cream. Check out: http://www.disneylandparis.com/en-us/attractions/disneyland-park/.
#6 Musee d’Orsay
Compared to its centuries-old counterparts, the Musee d’Orsay’s founding dates back to the early 20th century and was originally a railway station built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition. As you walk through the magnificent entrance, you will feel as though you stepped back in time to early 20th century Paris. Today, the Musee d’Orsay displays artwork collections from 1848 to 1914. Visitors can stroll through the former railway station, enjoying the collection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and architecture. The museum is open daily except Mondays. Admission for children 18 and under is free. Plan your visit to the Musee d’Orsay at http://www.musee-orsay.fr/en/home.html.
#7 The Batteau Mouche & The River Seine
Explore Paris aboard the Batteau Mouche, an open excursion boat that winds visitors along the River Seine to get a stunning view of the monuments and landmarks along the river’s banks. The Batteau Mouche runs nine different boats with departure times throughout the day and into the evening. Sit atop the deck of your boat and feel the smooth French breeze on your skin as you take photographs, sketch the stunning scene in front of you, or relax as you watch Paris roll by. Make your boat excursion even more special by boarding a lunch or a dinner cruise, both of which promise to use only the freshest of ingredients in its menu. Start planning your river cruise by visiting http://www.bateaux-mouches.fr/en.
Helpful Links
- Paris Tourist Office – http://en.parisinfo.com/
- Paris Metro – http://www.parismetro.com/
- The 50 Best Restaurants in Paris – http://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2015-02-19/the-50-best-restaurants-in-paris
- The 100 Best Restaurants in Paris – http://www.timeout.com/paris/en/restaurants/the-100-best-restaurants-in-paris
- The Best 100 Shops in Paris – http://www.timeout.com/paris/en/shopping/the-100-best-shops-in-Paris
We Can Help
Make your travels worry-free by having one of the professional pet sitters from Pet Sitters Ireland care for your pets while you’re in Paris. Your pets will enjoy plenty of love, play and care while you’re creating memories of a lifetime.
Have you traveled to Paris? What is your must visit place in the French city?
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