They say Paris is the world’s capital of gastronomy. And they are dead right on point; the French capital brings together the so-called food trinity like never before: wine, cheese, and bread. But, la Ville des Lumières (the City of Light) also boasts of a raft of fascinating things to see and do, ranging from authentic museums and cathedrals to majestic towers and everything in between.
Fair warning: this list rounds up ten most popular tourist attractions and landmarks in Paris. If you’re a seasoned traveler looking for an itinerary change, you might want to try Hidden Paris.
#1. Visit The Eiffel Tower
We’d to start our list with the most sought-after and a must-do thing in Paris: visiting the Eiffel Tower. Rising a dizzying 320 meters high, it’s hard to imagine that Gustave Eiffel built this majestic edifice for a World’s Fair back in 1889. The lush surrounding of the garden will undoubtedly provide a fabulous backdrop for the thousands of selfies and photos you’ll snap.
#2. Snag A Few Good Books from Shakespeare & Company
I don’t know about you, but I like to bring back a few mementos (or souvenirs) whenever I visit an exotic place. In Paris, Shakespeare & Company has all the goodies you might be looking for. Ransack the nooks and crannies of the area to find both old and like-new English-language reads.
#3. Panthéon
If you want to beat daytime Paris tourist crowds, head over to Panthéon. It’s truly an architectural marvel, once an ancient church, but now a fascinating museum. Don’t forget to take in the wowing views of this stately neoclassical icon.
#4. Musée d’Orsay
If you are looking to lay your eyes on French artistic gems, ranging from impressionist to art-nouveau moments (1848-1914), Musée d’Orsay is the place to visit. All the art collections in the museum will take you through an era of serenity and influential minds of the bygone era.
#5. The Notre Dame
The Cathédrale Notre Dame de Paris is certainly one of the most visited landmarks in the French capital. With more than 14 million visitors gracing this magnificent architectural masterpiece, the Notre Dame is not shabby.
#6. Visit the Gardens of Luxembourg
The so-called the Jardin du Luxembourg, a lush park in St-Germain with breathtaking views and scenery, is an undisputed superstar of Paris tourism scene. Be sure to stroll down the paths beside the lush lawns and well-manicured terraces with Chestnut trees.
#7. Musée du Louvre
The Louvre Museum is an epitome what Paris tourism represents. In fact, it’s one of the most prized museums in the world, and indeed the best in Paris. The art gallery itself boasts of an enchanting collection of masterpieces you’ll never find anywhere else.
#8. Dine at Guy Savoy Restaurant
Don’t say you’ve tasted the best of French cuisine until you try something from Guy Savoy Restaurant menu. It’s authentic, finesses, and comes with a classy ambiance. Dining in this 3-Star Michelin establishment will make you feel like the royal.
#9. Sainte-Chapelle
If you want to experience Sainte Chapelle at its best, try visiting during one of those sunny afternoons. The Chapel itself is quite a sight.
#10. Take a Cooking Tour
There are several different cooking tours conducted throughout Paris. They are all sizzling and will help you become your own Chef. After all, you’ll get a chance to treat your taste buds to all kinds of sweet treats, soups, and mouth-watering dishes.
