Planning your Paris vacation and not sure what to do in Paris? This guide by Vadim Hedonist, a local tour guide and storyteller, will help you uncover the city’s must-sees, favorite neighborhoods, hidden gems, and memorable experiences—whether it’s your first time or a return visit.
Must-See Paris Landmarks for First-Time Visitors
Start your adventure with the most iconic places to visit in Paris:
Eiffel Tower – The symbol of Paris and one of the most visited landmarks in the world. Visit the tower at sunset for magical views.
→ Entrance: Free to walk around, €11.30–€28.30 to go up
→ Recommended time: 2.5 hours
Official Eiffel Tower website
Louvre Museum – A true must-see in Paris. Home to the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and thousands of art treasures.
→ Entrance: €22
→ Recommended time: 4–6 hours
Official Louvre website
Notre-Dame Cathedral – Recently reopened in 2025, this masterpiece of Gothic architecture is one of the most photographed Paris landmarks.
→ Entrance: Free
→ Recommended time: 1–1.5 hours
Official Notre-Dame website
Arc de Triomphe – One of the top things to do in Paris for panoramic views of the Champs-Élysées.
→ Entrance: €16
→ Recommended time: 1.5 hours
Official Arc de Triomphe website
Sacré-Cœur Basilica – A stunning white basilica sitting on Montmartre Hill, offering a postcard-worthy view of the city.
→ Entrance: Free | Dome climb: €8
→ Recommended time: 1 hour
Official Sacré-Cœur website
Top Museums in Paris You Shouldn’t Miss
If you’re looking for what are fun things to do in Paris, don’t miss these world-famous museums:
Musée d’Orsay – Housed in a former train station, this museum features world-class Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
→ Entrance: €16
→ Recommended time: 4 hours
Official Musée d’Orsay website
Musée de l’Orangerie – The place to see Monet’s Water Lilies in an intimate and peaceful setting.
→ Entrance: €12.50
→ Recommended time: 2.5 hours
Official Musée de l’Orangerie website
Musée Rodin – A hidden gem filled with famous sculptures like The Thinker, surrounded by a serene garden.
→ Entrance: €15
→ Recommended time: 3 hours
Official Musée Rodin website
Explore the Most Charming Paris Neighborhoods
Trying to decide what to do in Paris that feels authentic? Start by exploring its iconic neighborhoods:
Champs-Élysées – This world-famous avenue stretches from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe and is a hub for luxury shopping, flagship stores, historic cafés, and seasonal markets.
Rue de Rivoli – Running parallel to the Seine, Rue de Rivoli is a classic Parisian street perfect for shopping and people-watching.
Montmartre – This historic district is where artists like Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec lived and worked.
Montmartre Walking Tour
Le Marais – A trendy and vibrant neighborhood known for its mix of medieval streets, modern boutiques, and food scene.
Latin Quarter – A youthful and lively area full of history, cafés, and bookshops.
Best Parks and Gardens in Paris to Relax
Still wondering what to do when in Paris during a calm afternoon? Spend it in one of the city’s stunning parks:
Tuileries Garden – Between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde.
Luxembourg Gardens – A peaceful oasis loved by Parisians and travelers alike.
Palais-Royal Garden – A tranquil courtyard garden hidden behind elegant arcades, just steps from the Louvre.
What to Eat and Drink in Paris: Must-Try Culinary Experiences
What to do in Paris often starts with amazing food:
French Pastries – Taste buttery croissants, flaky pain au chocolat, and delicate macarons.
What to eat in Paris
Wine & Cheese Tasting – Experience the best of French terroir at a cozy café or wine bar.
Seine River Picnic – Enjoy a classic Paris moment with baguette, wine, and a sunset.
Slow French Dinner – Dine like a Parisian and savor every bite.
More Unique Things to Do in Paris for an Unforgettable Trip
Looking for something offbeat when deciding what to do in Paris?
Sainte-Chapelle – Famous for its breathtaking stained-glass windows.
→ Recommended time: 1.5 hours
Official Sainte-Chapelle website
Paris Catacombs – Underground tunnels with a chilling history.
→ Recommended time: 2 hours
Official Paris Catacombs website
Moulin Rouge – A classic cabaret experience.
→ Recommended time: 2 hours
Official Moulin Rouge website
Palace of Versailles – Grand, royal, and a perfect day trip from Paris.
→ Recommended time: Full day
Official Versailles website
Disneyland Paris – Ideal for couples, families, and Disney fans.
→ Recommended time: Full day
Official Disneyland Paris website
Paris Vacation Tips from Local Guide Vadim Hedonist
- Start your journey with a walking tour of Paris to discover what to do in Paris first-hand.
- Don’t rush: one museum a day is enough—explore streets, cafés, and let Paris surprise you.
- Book tickets in advance and avoid the hassle.
- Meals take time—plan about 2.5 hours for dining out.
- Bring good shoes: Paris is best explored on foot.
Don’t settle for cookie-cutter experiences. Join Vadim Hedonist, local Parisian, travel blogger, and passionate guide, for soulful, story-filled walking tours that bring Paris to life.
✨ Best Private Walking Tour of Central Paris – The perfect intro to the city, with legends, views, and hidden gems.
🎨 Montmartre Walking Tour – Old Paris Charm – Dive into artistic history and romantic alleyways.
📸 Paris Photoshoot at the Eiffel Tower – Capture memories you’ll cherish forever with Paris’ most iconic backdrop.
👉 Book your tour now at paris-local.com
