Any mention of Paris conjures up images of the Louvre, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and of course, the Eiffel Tower. These iconic structures make the French capital instantly recognizable. Unsurprisingly, tourists from all around the world tend to flock around them when they set foot in this marvelous city.
But seeing these great landmarks is barely scratching the surface. Charming districts of Montmartre and Le Marais will take you back to the golden period of arts, literature, and music. Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Canal Saint-Martin will give you a glimpse into the local shopping and dining scene. And countless museums, big and small, are scattered throughout the city!
Here are some of the best places to visit and things to do in Paris. You can explore these spots on your own, but we also included links to tours just in case you prefer a more comfortable or more educational experience.
PARIS TOURIST SPOTS
1. Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel) is inarguably the most iconic landmark not just in Paris but also France as a whole.
It was named after Gustave Eiffel, whose company designed and built the tower as an entry to the World’s Fair of 1889 (1889 Exposition Universelle), in time for the celebration of the French Revolution’s 100th anniversary. The construction kicked off in January 1887 and was completed in March 1889. The tower is over 300 meters and has three levels that are accessible to the public.
Expect long lines for the tickets as the Eiffel Tower is incredibly popular. It’s highly advised to make a reservation before your visit. There are two types of tickets: one for just the first 2 floors; and the other for all 3 levels. Expectedly, the latter is more expensive.
Address: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
Nearest Train Station: Gare Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel or Bir-Hakeim Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Tour Eiffel Stop (Bus 30, 82)
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 11:45 PM (Daily)
Rates: €10.40 (2 Floors, Stairs); €16.60 (2 Floors, Lift); €19.70 (All Floors, Stairs + Lift); €25.90 (All Floors, Lift) Note: These are for adults. Visitors 12-24 y/o get half the price. For 4-11 y/o and disabled, ticket prices are much cheaper. Children below 4 y/o are FREE of charge.
Book your tickets in advance here!
2. Tour Montparnasse
At 210 meters, Tour Montparnasse is one of the tallest buildings in France and offers what many consider the best view of Paris.
We’ve tried it twice and it’s really breathtaking. There are two observation decks — on the 56th floor and the open-air panoramic terrace. The best time to visit is just before dusk to see the sun setting just behind the Eiffel Tower and witness it glitter as the city turns into a sea of lights.
Its construction started in 1969 and finished in 1973.
Address: 33 Avenue du Maine, 75015 Paris, France
Nearest Train Station: Montparnasse-Bienvenue Station or Gare-Montparnasse Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Gare Montparnasse Stop (Bus 58, 91, 92)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM (Daily)
Rates: €18 (Adults); €15 (12-18 y/o, students); €9.50 (4-11 y/o); €7.50 (Disabled); FREE (Under 4 y/o)
Book in advance here!
3. The Louvre
The Louvre Museum, or simply the Louvre, is considered an important historical landmark in Paris.
Housing approxinamtely 38,000 pieces from ancient civilizations to modern times, the vast museum is currently regarded as the largest art museum in the world. It is also currently the most visited globally, recording almost 10 million visitors in 2019 alone.
We have spent 2 days going around it and still was not able to see it all. See the Mona Lisa (it’s small!), Venus de Milo, and many other pieces from Greece, Italy, Egypt, Northern Europe, and France.
Louvre tickets are also offered online and you may choose to add a guided tour or an audio guide to it to have a much better appreciation of the pieces inside.
Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Nearest Train Station: Palais Royale-Musée du Louvre Station or Louvre-Rivoli Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Musée du Louvre Stop (Bus 27) or Palais Royal Musée du Louvre Stop (Bus 21, 69, 72, N11, N24)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily EXCEPT Tuesday); CLOSED (Tuesday, January 1, May 1, July 14 & December 25)
Rates: €17 (Online); €15 (Walk-In)
✅ GET PRIORITY ACCESS TICKET HERE!
4. Montmartre
Montmartre can easily make any visitor feel a bit disoriented.
Considered the artistic center of Paris, the district maintains its quaint, idyllic atmosphere, with all the greenery and old-fashioned buildings. Many notable artists have made this area their creative nest since the second half of the 19th century. It has museums, churches, and lots of scenic nooks!
See the white and shining La Basilique du Sacré Cœur, standing atop a hill, allowing great vistas of the city. And visit the Moulin Rouge and other shooting locations from films like Amélie, Beauty and the Beast, and Ronin.
Nearest Train Station: Anvers Station. There are a few metro stops but the most popular among travelers is Anvers.
Nearest Bus Stop: Anvers – Sacre Coeur Stop (Bus 54, N01) or Utrillo Stop (Bus 40)
Rates: FREE
If you want to get an in-depth experience of Montmartre, you can join a guided tour. Here are some of them:
✅ BOOK SACRED HEART BASILICA TOUR HERE!
✅ BOOK MONTMARTRE FOOD TOUR HERE!
5. Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is the biggest theme park in the country, encompassing two parks — Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studio Park, several hotels, shopping places, a golf course, and a high-speed rail station. Situated 20 miles east of Paris, the whole complex is enclosed in a circumferential road, La Meridienne.
If completing all the Disneyland parks is on your bucket list or you simply adore theme parks, Disneyland Paris will surely fill your day with fun activities and thrilling rides. From the city center, the travel time is about an hour.
Address: Boulevard de Parc, 77700 Coupvray, France
Nearest Train Station: Marne-la-Vallée-Chessy Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Disneyland Paris Stop (Flixbus or Disneyland Shuttle)
Opening Hours: The schedule varies per day. Check the official website prior to your visit.
Rates: 1Day/1Park: €62 (Adult), €57 (Child); 1Day/2Parks: €83 (Adult), €78 (Child). Note: These are the rates for the ‘Mini Ticket’ type. Rates for ‘Magic Ticket’ and ‘Super Magic Ticket’. There are also multiple day tickets since it has two parks. Learn more about the other types of tickets by checking the official page.
You can also book your ticket below!
6. Notre Dame Cathedral
Update: Because of the 2019 fire, the Notre Dame Cathedral is closed until further notice.
One of the most significant symbols of the nation, the Notre Dame Cathedral stood the test of time from its completion in 1345, but not without modifications and restoration through the centuries.
The cathedral is famous for its colossal ancient organ, the colorful rose windows, the sculptures, the flying buttresses, the gargoyles, and its bells among others. It also secures important relics such as the Crown of Thorns and the nail of the true cross. Another noteworthy feature is the Archaeological Crypt.
Entrance is FREE but prepare to fall in line. Don’t be intimidated by the long queue, though, because it moves fast. You can also climb up its towers for a great view.
Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
Nearest Train Station: Cité Station or Saint Michel Notre Dame Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Cité-Parvis Notre-Dame Stop
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:45 PM (Monday – Friday); 8:00 AM – 7:45 PM (Saturday & Sunday)
Rates: FREE (Cathedral); €8.50 (Tower); €6 (Crypt)
If you want to join a guided tour, the tour below is offering a package which includes a stop at St. Severin Church and exploration of the City Island where Notre Dame Cathedral is located. An English-speaking guide will accompany you.
7. Parc Asterix
Built 22 miles northeast of Paris, Parc Asterix is another theme park to consider especially for those who needs some adrenaline rush. Inspired by the comic book series bearing the same name, it incorporates ancient civilization history themes per zone — Gauls, Ancient Egypt, Romans, and Ancient Greece.
But the highlight is the collection of rollercoaster rides. As of writing, there are seven (7) rollercoasters dotting the theme park’s adventure map. It is the second largest theme park in France.
From Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, go to the Parc de Loisirs service desk and ask where the shuttle for Parc Asterix are boarding passengers.
Address: 60128 Plailly, France
Nearest Train Station: Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Parc Asterix Stop (Flixbus or BlaBlaBus)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily)
Rates: Futé Ticket: €43 (Adult, 12 y/o and above); €40 (Child, 3-11 y/o). Billet Gaulois: €51 (Adult, 12 y/o and above); €43 (Child, 3-11 y/o). Check the official website for other packages.
Book your tickets online ahead of time!
8. Pere Lachaise Cemetery
Opened at the start of the 19th century, this 44-hectare municipal cemetery is the largest in Paris.
Apart from the three WWI memorials, Pere Lachaise Cemetery serves as the final resting place of world-renowned personalities including playwrights Oscar Wilde and Molière; writers Balzac, Proust, and Colette; painters Pissaro and Delacroix; composer and pianist Frederic Chopin; rock legend Jim Morrison; and actors Sarah Bernhardt and Yves Montand.
If you plan to visit here, the tombs of famous people are marked on Google Maps.
Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Philippe Auguste Station, Gambetta Station or Pere Lachaise Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Pere Lachaise Stop (Bus 61, 69, 71, N16, N34), Philippe Auguste Stop (Bus 71) or Gambetta – Pyrénées Stop (Bus 26, 64)
Opening Hours: The schedule varies per season, but the usual schedule is from 8AM to 6PM.
Rates: FREE
You may also book a guided tour online.
9. Moulin Rouge
Located near Montmartre, Moulin Rogue is often combined with a visit to the historic hill district. It is a club which offers musical dance shows not only for the locals but also tourists. The building is very noticeable for its red color and windmill feature that is reminiscent of the original 19th-century structure.
It became an inspiration for several entertainment establishments, music, and film, particularly the Baz Luhrmann-musical starring Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor.
Address: 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Blanche Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Blanche Stop (Bus 30, 52, N02)
Opening Hours: 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM. It depends on what time slot you choose to watch the dinner show.
Rates: Start at €100
You can book your tickets in advance below! Choose the one that suits your preference.
✅ BOOK SHOW + CHAMPAGNE + TRANSFERS HERE
✅ BOOK SHOW + DINNER + CITY BUS TOUR HERE
10. Trocadéro Viewpoint
Facing the Eiffel Tower from the other side of the Seine River, Trocadéro presents another perspective in admiring the Eiffel Tower. Aside from the view deck, the area is also home to the Palais de Chaillot, Trocadéro Garden, and Trocadéro Fountain.
We love being here just before sunset too and then walk closer to the tower, via Pont d’Lena, after the first sparkle.
Address: Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, 75016 Paris, France
Nearest Train Station: Trocadero Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Trocadero Stop (Bus 32, 63)
Opening Hours: 24/7
Rates: FREE
11. Le Marais
In the past, this charming neighborhood became the settlement for the Jews in Paris. Over the centuries, Le Marais developed into the busy commercial district that it is today. Shops, galleries, and restaurants lined the streets.
Many prominent people resided here like Victor Hugo and Jim Morrison. Some notable places to visit in the area are Musée Victor Hugo, Place des Vosges, Maison Européenne de la Photographie, and Musée des Archives Nationales. Centre Pompidou and even the Notre Dame Cathedral are also nearby.
The food scene here has a diverse selection too! Don’t miss the L’As du Fallafel, hailed by the New York Times as the “falafel destination in Paris”!
If you love desserts and sweets, you can join a pastry tour.
✅ CHECK DESSERT TOUR RATES HERE!
Nearest Train Station: Saint Paul Station. There are a few metro stops but the most popular among travelers is Saint Paul.
Nearest Bus Stop: Saint Paul Stop (Bus 69, 76, 96, N11, N16). There are many bus stops but this is the most preferred by the tourists.
Rates: FREE
12. Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Lying on the southern bank of the Seine, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is another neighborhood worth seeing for its heritage. In the latter part of the 19th century and the dawn of the 20th century, it became the base of some of the great names in arts and literature, including Oscar Wilde.
From being the center of existentialism ideology, St. Germain has grown to one of the city’s commercial and shopping hub. There are also galleries, museums, and various shops. Some of the tourist attractions are the Jardin du Luxembourg, Église Saint-Sulpice, and Ecole des Beaux Arts among others. But that’s not all!
The area’s “sweet” offerings attract food lovers, especially those who don’t mind the extra sugar and fats. Don’t miss these notable food places: Les Deux Magots, Cafe de Flore, Brasserie Lipp, Debauve & Gallais, and Café Procope.
Nearest Train Station: Saint-Germain-des-Prés Station or Mabillon Station
Nearest Bus Stop: There are several bus stops. The nearest one depends on where you want to go or which particular part you want to start exploring. Buses that operate here are Bus 39, 95, N01, NO2, N12, & N13.
Rates: FREE
If you want to try some of the best food shops in St. Germain, here are two options for the guided food tour offered.
✅ BOOK DESSERT + CHOCOLATE + PASTRY TOUR HERE!
13. Pompidou Center
Launched in 1977, the Pompidou Center is a multi-faceted complex following an avant-garde design. It’s located just a short walk from La Marais.
Various establishments are housed here — Public Information Library, IRCAM, cinemas, performance hall, bookstore, shops, café, and restaurant. But the one that draws the crowd most is the Musée National d’Art Moderne, hailed the largest modern art museum in Europe.
You can also get a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower from here!
Address: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Rambuteau Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Centre Georges Pompidou Stop (Bus 38, 75, N12, N13, N14, N23)
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; CLOSED (Tuesdays & May 1)
Rates: FREE (Lobby); Museum + Gallery 3: €14 (Regular), €11 (Reduced)
If you want to skip the line, you can book the express ticket online.
14. Pablo Picasso Museum
Pablo Picasso is a Spanish painter whose works gave birth to the Cubism art movement. He is one of the most prominent artists of the 20th century.
If you are a fan of his art, Musée National Picasso-Paris will overwhelm you with over 5,000 pieces. The museum is a 17th-century building that displays not only Picasso’s important masterpieces but also his early work and other memorabilia. It prides itself on having the biggest collection of Picasso’s work in the world.
Address: 5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris, France
Nearest Train Station: Saint-Sébastien Froissart Station. However, this Metro station is still several blocks away from the museum.
Nearest Bus Stop: Rue Vieille du Temple Bus Station (Bus 29). From the bus station, you still need to cross Rue Vieille du Temple and walk a few meters to the museum.
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday – Friday); 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday, Sunday & Holidays); CLOSED (Mondays)
Rates: €14 (Regular); €11 (Reduced); FREE (Below 18 y/o)
You get your ticket without waiting in line when you book online.
15. Avenue Champs-Élysées
Perhaps the most recognizable and the most photographed street in Paris! Looking at the map, Avenue Champs-Élysées is much wider compared to other roads. Spanning almost two kilometers, it connects Place de la Concorde and Arc de Triomphe. It is also the venue for the Bastille Day parade.
The avenue is one of the busiest in Paris and one of the most visited in the world. It boasts a great selection of high-end shops, restaurants, and cafés. Don’t go without exploring the alleys stemming from the avenue and the adjacent smaller gardens. If you get hungry, stuff your face with crepe from the food stalls scattered along the road.
Nearest Train Station: George V Station, Franklin D. Roosevelt Station or Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Several bus stops are located along the avenue.
Rates: FREE
16. Arc de Triomphe
Punctuating the western end of Avenue Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe stand proudly at the heart of Place Charles de Gaulle where 12 avenues meet.
Its history dates back to 1806 when Napoleon Bonaparte commissioned it to celebrate his victories, especially after the Battle of Austerlitz. It is one of the iconic monuments of Paris and one of the country’s cultural landmarks. It features the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, engraved names of war heroes and names of the battles won, a museum, and some exhibitions.
Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Charles de Gaulle–Étoile Station, Kléber Station, George V Station or Argentine Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Bus stop at Avenue Champs-Élysées or Avenue de la Grande Armée. These two have underpasses to the Arc de Triomphe.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (April – September); 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM (October – March); CLOSED (Tuesdays & May 1)
Rates: €13 (Regular); €11 (Reduced); FREE (Below 18 y/o, bring valid proof like I.D.)
If you don’t want to wait in line, you can skip it by booking in advance online.
17. Place de la Concorde & Jardin des Tuileries
Adorning the eastern end of Avenue Champs-Élysées is the historic square in Paris, Place de la Concorde. With an area of more than 7 hectares, it is considered the largest square in Paris.
This 18th-century square had witnessed many public executions; one of the high-profile cases is that of King Loius XVI. Today, it is adorned with two fountains, the Maritime Fountain and the Fountain of the Rivers, and a Luxor obelisk, a 3000-year-old 23-meter structure shipped from Egypt in 1833.
Next to it lies the Jardin des Tuileries (Tuileries Garden), which is an ideal spot to rest and relax after hours of sightseeing. Here you’ll find two spacious ponds, surrounded by lanes of manicured trees, which are studded by various statues. In the southwest nook stands the Musée de l’Orangerie, which houses the works of Monet.
If you keep walking across the garden, you’ll eventually reach the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel and then the Louvre!
Nearest Train Station: Concorde Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Concorde-Cours la Reine Stop (Bus 42, 73, N11, N24) or Concorde Stop (Bus 42, 72, N11)
Rates: FREE
18. Sainte Chapelle
Just like the Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte Chapelle is nestled on Paris’ City Island. This medieval chapel in Gothic style architecture used to be part of Palais de la Cité.
It is famed for its 15 beautiful 13th-century stained glass windows, carved 15 meters up, near the ceiling. These historic windows depict important events both from the Old and New Testaments.
Sainte Chapelle also houses significant Christian relics. It was declared a national historic monument in 1862.
Address: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Cité Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Cité – Palais de Justice Stop (Bus 21, 38, 47, 58, 96, N12-15, N21-22)
Opening Hours: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Rates: €11.50 (Regular); €9 (Reduced); FREE (Below 18 y/o, bring valid proof like I.D.)
Skip the line and book online!
19. The Conciergerie
Located just beside Sainte Chapelle, the Conciergerie is another historical site that traces back to its roots as a royal palace turned into a prison. Prominent people were incarcerated and spent their time here before being led to their execution — Marie Antoinette, Elisabeth of France, and Georges Danton among others.
Like Sainte Chapelle, it was regarded as a national historic monument in 1862. At present, it functions as a place for the city’s law courts, but tourists are still allowed in some parts of the building.
Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Cité Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Cité – Palais de Justice Stop (Bus 21, 38, 47, 58, 96, N12-15, N21-22)
Opening Hours: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Rates: €9.50 (Regular); €7.50 (Reduced); FREE (Below 18 y/o, bring valid proof like I.D.)
Avoid queueing when you book the express ticket!
20. Opera Garnier
Dominating the Place de l’Opéra (Opera Square), Opera Garnier, also called Palais Garnier, is a 19th-century opera house that can seat almost 2000 guests. The stage can carry about 450 artists and is said to be the largest in Europe.
The opera house was named after its designer and architect, Charles Garnier when Napoleon III commissioned it for the Paris Opera. The design mixes styles, particularly Baroque and Renaissance. The facade alone captures the attention of tourists and passers-by with its textured appearance and sculptural masterpieces.
This might be familiar to musical theater enthusiasts as this was used as a setting for the very popular play, ‘The Phantom of the Opera’.
Address: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Opera Station, Chaussée d’Antin Station or Auber Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Opera Stop (Bus 20, 27, 29, 32, 66, 95, N15, N16)
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (July – September); 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (October – June); CLOSED (some holidays, check before going)
Rates: €14 (Regular); €12 (Reduced); FREE (Below 12 y/o, bring valid proof like I.D.). Access is limited to some areas only; others are restricted zones.
Book a guided tour in advance below.
21. Musée d’Orsay (Orsay Museum)
The museum is set in what used to be the terminal building of a railway station, Gare d’Orsay (Orsay Station), which adds to its incredible aesthetic appeal.
Built for 1900 Universal Exposition, the impressive design of the building landed it in the list of Historic Monuments in 1978. The train station was converted into a museum, which officially opened to the public in December 1986. The architectural style is a mixture of French neoclassicism, medieval Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
But more than the beauty of its shell, this museum has a lot to offer inside. It boasts a rich collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art by world-famous artists such as Van Gogh, Renoir, and Manet.
Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France
Nearest Train Stations: Musee d’Orsay Station or Solférino Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Musee d’Orsay Stop (Bus N01)
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Tuesday – Wednesday, Friday – Sunday); 9:30 AM – 9:45 PM (Thursdays); CLOSED (Mondays and some holidays)
Rates: €14 (Regular); €11 (Reduced); FREE (Below 18 y/o, bring valid proof like I.D.)
Book your express ticket online if you want to skip the line.
22. Le Canal Saint-Martin
Stretching over 4 kilometers, Le Canal Saint-Martin meanders through the city, linking the Seine and Canal l’Ourcq. The canal’s roots can be traced back to the early 19th century, when it was dug to supply fresh water to the then developing city. It also helped with the ushering of supplies of goods into Paris between two ports — one in Arsenal and one in Villette.
Today, the canal has enticed both locals and tourists with plenty of restaurants and shops lining its length. Sightseeing by boat cruise along the canal is a popular activity.
Nearest Train Station: Stalingrad, République, Goncourt, Jaurès, and Jacques Bonsergent Stations
Nearest Bus Stop: There are several bus stops. The nearest one depends on where you want to go or which particular part you want to start exploring.
Rates: FREE
Since a lot of restaurants grace the banks of the canal, trying some of the gastronomic offerings is one way of exploring the canal. There are guided food tours that include Saint-Martin Canal in the itinerary, while others just focus on the food stops along the canal. The food tour package below is inclusive of an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and complimentary food.
✅ CHECK & BOOK FOOD TOUR HERE!
23. Versailles
OK, not really within city, but no Paris itinerary is complete without a side trip to Versailles!
The city is best known for the opulent Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) and its gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and an important historical monument of France.
From being a hunting pavilion of King Louis XIII, it was transformed into a royal residence by his son, King Louis XIV, in 1682.
Today, it functions as a museum, boasting vast and grand collections of masterpieces, including the structure and the whole estate itself, displaying different architectural styles from the 17th century to the 19th century. You need to dedicate one whole day for this place because it’s so extensive.
See the Royal Apartments, the Ambassador’s Staircase, the Grand Gallery (particularly the Hall of Mirrors), the Royal Chapel, the Royal Opera, the gardens and fountains, the groves, the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, and the Hamlet of Marie Antoinette. WHEW!
Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
Nearest Train Station: Gare de Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche Station. Board the RER C train from Paris. From the station, take a short walk to the Tourist Office of Versailles. Travel time is 45-60 minutes.
Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday. 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (November – March); 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM (April – October); CLOSED (Mondays and some holidays)
Rates: €18 (Palace); €20 (Whole Site); FREE (Below 18 y/o)
If you want to skip the line, book a guided tour, or have a tour inclusive of transfers and audioguide, you can book it online. Here are your options:
✅ BOOK TOUR W/ TRANSFER + AUDIOGUIDE HERE!
24. Les Invalides
The whole complex harbors several museums and monuments that are dedicated to France’s military force. It also has a hospital and a settlement for war veterans.
The most famous landmarks are the Musée de l’Armée and Dôme des Invalides. The latter is the final resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Address: 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris, France
Nearest Train Station: Invalides Station, Varenne Station or La Tour-Maubourg Station
Nearest Bus Stop: Buses that operate here are Bus 69, 82, & 92.
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily, September – June); 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Daily, July & August)
Rates: €14 (Regular); €11 (Reduced); FREE (Below 18 y/o)
If you don’t want to wait in line for the ticket, you can book your express pass in advance online.
THINGS TO DO
25. Paris Walking Tours
Paris is crammed with both modern and historic sites. It is possible to cover some of the top attractions on foot. Of course, you can pull a D-I-Y, but if you want an in-depth experience per stop, guided tours abound in Paris. There are free walking tours and paid tours.
In case you’re not familiar with how FREE tours work, these are usually organized sightseeing tours led by a guide. Technically, you won’t need to pay for the tour, but the guides rely on tips so you are still expected to shell out an amount, depending on what you think is fair or how much you enjoy the experience. FREE walking tours are mostly guided sightseeing strolls. If you opt to join one, you will not be entering the buildings. You will mostly visit the grounds and see the facades of the age-old structures.
✅ CHECK FREE WALKING TOURS HERE!
If you are interested in history, particularly the French Revolution, there’s a paid guided tour that covers attractions related to that period. These tours last 2-3 hours.
✅ BOOK FRENCH REVOLUTION TOUR HERE
26. City Tour Packages
Another way of exploring the city, especially if you are pressed for time is by booking a city tour package. This usually involves driving around the city and then cruising along the Seine River, letting you see some of the iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame Cathedral among others.
You can choose to do the city tour during the day or at night. The tour usually takes 3-4 hours.
27. Seine River Cruise
If you want to just savor the moment of being in the City of Love while cruising along the Seine, you can book a one-hour cruise tour. This is inclusive of headsets for onboard commentary and a comfortable glass-roofed boat with a terrace and external gangways.
The tour will start from the Eiffel Tower area and will pass by other sites including the Assembleé Nationale, Invalides, Musée d’Orsay, Institut de France, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
✅ BOOK SEINE RIVER CRUISE HERE!
28. Paris Hop-on Hop Bus Tour
Hop-on Hop-off bus tour is immensely popular not just in Paris but in other major cities with booming tourism. This is very convenient and practical if you want to cover as many as you want without worrying about transfers or getting from one point to another. You just need to purchase 1-day or 2-day pass and you are free to get off the bus to explore one attraction and get on another hop-on-hop-off bus to the next attraction. Check the stops before booking.
Most of these buses are double-decker with open top and have more than 10 attractions in their route. Here are two options:
29. Paris Food Tour
We’ve already mentioned that Paris is a melting pot of culinary flavors and traditions. Have a delightful “taste” of the city as you scour the food hubs for a very filling gastronomic adventure. In summary, here are some of the food tours that we’ve tackled and a couple of new options:
✅ BOOK MONTMARTRE NIGHT FOOD TOUR
30. Shopping
But of course! You are in one of the fashion capitals of the world, might as well scan the shopping districts and avenues for pieces that you’ve been wanting to buy. Well, it doesn’t need to be a designer brand; just do you. Shop for clothes, accessories, cosmetics, and souvenir items. We know you want to take home something that will remind you of your Parisian adventure.
If you are wondering what it’s like to attend a fashion gathering and watch a fashion show, you can experience that at Galeries Lafayette Paris. You can book your ticket/pass online. This is inclusive of the ff:
- Le Concierge access (private lounge) and service
- Complimentary drinks and snacks
- International press exposure (for publications)
- WiFi access
- Lunch break or afternoon tea at Angelina
- Chauffeur service to any address within Paris
- Galeries Lafayette Tote Bag
- Tax refund and exclusive counter for the payment transaction
- Delivery of items to your hotel within 24 hours
Top Budget Hotels and Apartments in Paris
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Paris, here are some of the top-rated budget hotels and apartments in the city, as scored by Agoda customers. We only considered properties with over 250 reviews.
- My Home For You Luxury B&B. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
- Hotel Recamier. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
- Hotel Square Louvois. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
- Oh la la ! Hotel Bar Paris Bastille. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
- Hotel Joke – Astotel. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
- Hotel Moliere. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
- Drawing Hotel. Check Rates & Photos! ✅
Search for more Paris Hotels!
Edited by Asta Alvarez
2021 • 3 • 28
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