25 best things to do in Paris: Eiffel Tower, Louvre & more (2026 guide)

Paris is one of the most iconic tourist destinations in the world, but what are the best things to see and do in this historic French city?

Based on the RAC Drive team's personal experiences, we've created this in-depth guide to the city's must-see spots and events.

No matter if it is the walks along the river, or taking a tour across the capital, this holidays abroad guide highlights the best that Paris has to offer.

What are the best things to do in Paris?

1. Eiffel Tower
2. Louvre Museum
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
4. Arc de Triomphe
5. Sacré-Cœur
6. Musée d'Orsay
7. Versailles
8. Paris Catacombs
9. Palais Garnier
10. Disneyland Paris

Top 25 things to do in Paris

On my last visit to the city of Paris, these were the best places to visit – and what I learnt about them.

Eiffel Tower

• Ticket prices: From €14.80 (stairs) to €36.70
• Opening times: Daily 09:00-00:00
• Best time to visit: Early morning or after 19:00
• How long to allow: 2-3 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Bir-Hakeim

No matter how many photos I’ve seen (or taken) in Paris, nothing compares to standing beneath the Eiffel Tower's iron lattice and looking straight up at one of the world’s most iconic landmarks.

I like to approach it from the Trocadero side because the view opens up dramatically as I walk toward it.

Before arriving, I booked a timed ticket, as I knew it would save me from the long queues that can stretch across the Champ de Mars and beyond.

Once inside, I take my time climbing or riding up to the second level. From there, I can spot the River Seine winding through the city, the golden dome of Les Invalides, and all the people below.

I always go all the way to the summit – and suggest you do to if you can – for that exhilarating sense of standing above Paris.

Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Elysees

• Ticket prices: €16
• Opening times: Daily 10:00-23:00 (Apr-Sep), 10:00-22:30 (Oct-Mar)
• Best time to visit: Sunset
• How long to allow: 1-1.5 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Charles de Gaulle–Étoile

I’ve driven around the famously chaotic Champs-Elysees. And while it’s a thrill, you must be aware of your surroundings as cars, motorbikes and vans can appear with very little notice.

You can also climb the Arc de Triomphe itself!

The spiral staircase feels endless, but the 284 steps lead to a reward that is totally worth it. At the top you will get a panoramic view of Paris.

From up there, the Champs‑Élysées stretches toward the Place de la Concorde like a grand red carpet is in view.

When I walk down the avenue, I like to mix the iconic stops with the quieter side streets. Both offer great shopping opportunities.

From luxury boutiques to cosy cafés, there is something for everyone.

I’ve learned that the Champs‑Élysées is best enjoyed slowly, ideally with a pastry in hand and no strict schedule.

At night, the boulevard transforms into a glowing ribbon of lights, and the Arc becomes a dramatic silhouette against the sky…and a great place for some photos.

Notre Dame Cathedral

• Ticket prices: Free entry (tower and special areas may be charged when available)
• Opening times: 07:45-19:00 (can vary throughout the year)
• Best time to visit: Early morning
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Cité

Even after the devastating fire, the Notre Dame Cathedral remains a powerful symbol of Paris, and watching its restoration unfold has become part of the experience.

But with it now open, people can visit for free.

For centuries, pilgrims, kings, and everyday Parisians (and millions of tourists) have passed through the same space to marvel at this landmark.

I love walking around the back of the cathedral, where the flying buttresses look almost skeletal yet incredibly elegant.

The surrounding gardens also offer a peaceful moment away from the city’s bustle and chaos.

Inside you will find the restored interior, including the cleaned stone, restored paintings, and the great organ.

After spending time near the cathedral, I usually wander along the Seine, where more cafes await.

Louvre Museum

• Ticket prices: €22
• Opening times: 09:00-18:00 Mon, Thu, Sat, Sun; until 21:00 Wed & Fri; closed Tue
• Best time to visit: Wed/Fri evenings
• How long to allow: 3-5 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Palais Royal–Musée du Louvre

The Louvre is one of those places I can never fully conquer, and that’s exactly why I love it.

Every visit feels like entering a labyrinth of art, history, and unexpected discoveries. I’ve learned not to rush from masterpiece to masterpiece and instead choose a theme or a wing and let myself wander.

Obviously, seeing the Mona Lisa is always a fun ritual but I find the quieter galleries far more captivating. I’ve spent entire afternoons admiring ancient artefacts or getting lost in the intricacies of the French arts.

The building itself is world-renowned masterpiece. From the grand staircases to the ornate ceilings, there is so much to see and do.

Palace of Versailles

• Ticket prices: €24-32
• Opening times: 09:00-17:30/18:30 (varies throughout the year)
• Best time to visit: Tuesday-Thursday mornings
• How long to allow: 4-8 hours
• Nearest Metro station: No Metro; RER C Versailles Château–Rive Gauche

Walking through the palace feels like stepping into a world where every detail was designed to impress.

From the glittering chandeliers to the intricate parquet floors, there is a lot to see and do.

The Hall of Mirrors is always the highlight for me. The reflections, the gilded arches, and the sense of history make it feel like a stage set for royal drama. But the gardens are where I spend most of my time.

I love renting a bike to explore the vast grounds, especially the quieter paths near the Grand Canal.

On ongoing theme about this list is that you may need to visit a few times.

The estate is so large that even a full day never feels enough, but that’s part of its charm.

Paris Catacombs

• Ticket prices: €31
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 09:45-20:30
• Best time to visit: First entry of the day
• How long to allow: 1.5-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Denfert-Rochereau

The Paris Catacombs offer one of the most haunting and fascinating experiences I’ve had in the city.

Descending the narrow staircases feel like entering a forgotten world.

As I walk through the tunnels lined with neatly arranged bones, I’m struck by the strange mix of reverence and artistry.

It’s eerie, of course, but also deeply moving.

The history behind it is amazing – and if there are tours, I cannot recommend them enough.

Warning! The Catacombs aren’t for everyone, but for me, they offer a powerful reminder of Paris’s complexity and deep history.

Musee d’Orsay

• Ticket prices: €17
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 09:30-18:00, Thu until 21:45
• Best time to visit: Thursday evening
• How long to allow: 2-4 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Solférino

Housed in a former railway station, the museum blends industrial architecture with artistic, Parisian style.

I love standing beneath the giant clock windows, watching the city framed in soft golden light.

The Impressionist and Post‑Impressionist collections are the heart of the museum for me.

However, I also enjoy exploring the lesser‑known works tucked into side rooms. I recommend you do the same!

Compared to the Louvre, the Orsay feels more intimate, if that is something that you’d prefer.

Palais Garnier

• Ticket prices: €15+
• Opening times: Daily 10:00-17:00
• Best time to visit: Morning
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Opéra

From the moment I enter Palais Garnier Opera House, and see the grand staircase, with its marble columns and sweeping curves, it makes me feel as though I’m stepping into the history of the city.

I love exploring the Grand Foyer, and the auditorium itself is breathtaking. The red velvet seats, the chandelier, and the Chagall ceiling create a sense of magic – something Paris’ landmarks are known for.

Even when I’m not attending a performance, the self‑guided tour lets me linger in the spaces that captivate me most.

However, if you can get tickets to a show – do it!

Basilique du Sacré Coeur de Montmartre

• Ticket prices: Basilica free; dome €8+
• Opening times: Basilica 06:30-22:30
• Best time to visit: Early morning or sunset
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Anvers

Climbing the steps to Sacré‑Cœur always feels like a small pilgrimage – and something I do most visits to the French capital.

The basilica’s white domes glow against the sky, and the view from the top is one of the best in Paris.

Inside, the mosaics shimmer softly, creating a peaceful contrast to the lively streets outside.

Montmartre itself is a joy to explore. It has a maze of cobblestone lanes, artists’ studios, and charming (and very popular) cafés.

I love wandering through the neighbourhood, and it is known for bring both nostalgic and ‘alive’ with the spirit of Parus.

I often spend hours getting lost in its winding streets, discovering hidden staircases, quiet squares, and unexpected viewpoints.

Disneyland Paris

• Ticket prices: From about €56-€120+ a day depending on date and park
• Opening times: Usually 09:30-22:00
• Best time to visit: Midweek outside school holidays
• How long to allow: Full day (ideally 2+ days)
• Nearest Metro station: No Metro; RER A Marne-la-Vallée–Chessy

Disneyland Paris always brings out my inner child – as it does for millions of adults around the world who come to visit.

From the moment I walk through the gates and see large castle, I feel a wave of excitement as I know a day of rides and ‘magic’ is upon me.

I like to start in the main park, where classic attractions blend with uniquely French touches.

Whether I’m soaring through space on Hyperspace Mountain or drifting through Pirates of the Caribbean, each ride feels like a little escape.

I try to make time for the parades and shows – so getting a fast pass is key.

The Walt Disney Studios Park adds a different flavour, with movie‑themed attractions and behind‑the‑scenes experiences.

I love grabbing snacks throughout the day. Who doesn’t love a Mickey Mouse‑shaped treat?

• A visual guide to France road signs
• The complete guide to toll roads in France
• Crit’Air clean air stickers – French driving advice

Canal Saint‑Martin

• Ticket prices: Free
• Opening times: Open anytime
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: République

Canal Saint‑Martin offers a quieter, more relaxed side of Paris, perfect for a scenic stroll along the water. Its tree‑lined paths, iron footbridges and independent cafés make it a lovely place to spend an afternoon, especially if you want to escape the busier tourist spots. It’s a great area for people‑watching, grabbing a coffee or enjoying a picnic by the canal.

Musee de l’Orangerie

• Ticket prices: €12.50
• Opening times: Wed-Mon 09:00-18:00; closed Tue
• Best time to visit: Early morning
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Concorde

The Musée de l’Orangerie is best known for Monet’s famous Water Lilies murals, displayed in two oval rooms designed specifically for them. Located in the Tuileries Gardens, this compact museum is calm, atmospheric and ideal for art lovers. Alongside Monet, you’ll find works by Cézanne, Renoir and Matisse, making it a great addition to a day exploring central Paris.

Opera Garnier

• Ticket prices: Approx. €15
• Opening times: Daily 10:00-17:00
• Best time to visit: Morning
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Opéra

The Opéra Garnier is one of Paris’s most spectacular buildings, filled with marble staircases, chandeliers and ornate frescoes. Guided tours let you explore its lavish interiors and learn about its history, including its link to The Phantom of the Opera. Even if you’re not seeing a performance, the building itself is worth the visit for its incredible architecture.

Coulée Verte René‑Dumont

• Ticket prices: Free
• Opening times: 08:00-21:30 (seasonal openings apply)
• Best time to visit: Afternoons
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Bastille

The Coulée Verte René‑Dumont is an elevated park built on a former railway line, offering a peaceful green walkway above the city streets. Lined with plants, arches and viewpoints, it’s a lovely alternative to the busier parks. It’s perfect for a relaxed stroll and gives you a chance to see a different, more residential side of Paris.

Latin Quarter

• Ticket prices: Free
• Opening times: Open anytime
• Best time to visit: Evening
• How long to allow: 2-3 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Cluny–La Sorbonne

The Latin Quarter is known for its student atmosphere, historic streets and lively cafés. Home to the Sorbonne and countless bookshops, it’s a great place to wander and soak up the neighbourhood’s character. Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat or simply want to explore somewhere with plenty of charm, the Latin Quarter is a must‑visit.

Panthéon

• Ticket prices: €13
• Opening times: Daily 10:00–18:30
• Best time to visit: Morning
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Cardinal Lemoine

The Panthéon is a grand neoclassical monument honouring some of France’s most influential figures, including Voltaire, Marie Curie and Victor Hugo. Inside, you’ll find impressive architecture, detailed sculptures and the famous Foucault’s Pendulum. Its hilltop location also offers great views over the surrounding streets of the Latin Quarter.

Musée Rodin

• Ticket prices: €15
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 10:00-18:30
• Best time to visit: Afternoon for the gardens
• How long to allow: 2-3 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Varenne

Set in a beautiful mansion and peaceful gardens, the Musée Rodin showcases the sculptor’s most famous works, including The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. The outdoor spaces are perfect for a relaxed visit on a sunny day, and the museum’s smaller size makes it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed.

Le Marais

• Ticket prices: Free
• Opening times: Open anytime
• Best time to visit: Weekend afternoon
• How long to allow: 2-4 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Saint-Paul

Le Marais is one of Paris’s trendiest districts, known for its mix of traditional bakeries, falafel stands and artisan chocolate shops. A food tour is a great way to sample local favourites while exploring its charming streets. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to discover Paris through its flavours and learn more about the area’s history.

The Seine

• Ticket prices: River cruises range from €17 upwards
• Opening times: Open anytime (cruises vary on timings throughout the year)
• Best time to visit: Sunset or evening
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Multiple

A sunset Seine cruise offers a more atmospheric experience than daytime trips, with landmarks glowing in golden light. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from the water and enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre‑Dame and the Louvre. It’s especially popular with couples and first‑time visitors.

Picasso Museum

• Ticket prices: €16
• Opening times: Tue-Sun 09:30-18:00
• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings
• How long to allow: 1.5-2.5 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Saint-Sébastien–Froissart

The Picasso Museum, housed in a 17th‑century mansion, contains thousands of works from the artist’s long career. The collection includes paintings, sculptures and sketches, offering a detailed look at his creative evolution. It’s a great stop for art fans and those wanting to explore a quieter museum in the Marais district.

Parc des Buttes‑Chaumont

• Ticket prices: Free
• Opening times: 07:00–22:00
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon
• How long to allow: 1-3 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Buttes Chaumont

Parc des Buttes‑Chaumont is one of Paris’s most dramatic parks, featuring cliffs, waterfalls and a hilltop temple with great views. It’s a brilliant spot for a picnic or a scenic walk away from the city centre. Families, runners and locals love it for its open spaces and unique landscape.

The Conciergerie

• Ticket prices: €13
• Opening times: Daily 09:30-18:00
• Best time to visit: Morning
• How long to allow: 1–1.5 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Cité

The Conciergerie, once a royal palace and later a prison, is best known as the place where Marie Antoinette was held. Today, visitors can explore its medieval halls and learn about its role during the French Revolution. It’s a fascinating stop for history lovers and sits right on the Île de la Cité.

Cluny Museum

• Ticket prices: €13
• Opening times: Tue–Sun 09:15–17:45
• Best time to visit: Morning
• How long to allow: 1.5–2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Cluny–La Sorbonne

The Cluny Museum is dedicated to medieval art and history, with highlights including the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. Its collection features stained glass, sculptures and everyday objects from the Middle Ages. The museum recently underwent renovation, making it a fresh and engaging place to explore.

Galeries Lafayette

• Ticket prices: Free entry
• Opening times: Mon-Sat 10:00-20:30, Sun 11:00-20:00
• Best time to visit: Morning or Sunday evening
• How long to allow: 1-3 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Chaussée d'Antin–La Fayette

After browsing the department store’s designer brands, head to the Galeries Lafayette rooftop for panoramic views over Paris. The terrace is free to access and offers brilliant photo opportunities, especially with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. It’s a great addition to a shopping trip on Boulevard Haussmann.

Rue Montorgueil

• Ticket prices: Free
• Opening times: Open anytime (shops vary)
• Best time to visit: Breakfast or lunch
• How long to allow: 1-2 hours
• Nearest Metro station: Étienne Marcel

Rue Montorgueil is a lively food‑focused street packed with bakeries, cheese shops, seafood stalls and cafés. It’s perfect for a self‑guided tasting walk and offers a real flavour of everyday Parisian life. The atmosphere is vibrant throughout the day, making it a great place to stop for lunch or pick up fresh produce.

^{*All prices and hours can change seasonally and at any point. These are typical adult rates and standard opening hours as of 2026.}

Driving around Paris

Driving around Paris has become one of those experiences I approach with equal parts curiosity and caution.

The city has its own kind of organised chaos, and once I learned to move with it rather than fight against it, everything became a far more enjoyable experience.

I always give myself extra time, because even a short journey can turn unpredictable with sudden traffic waves, roadworks, or a spontaneous demonstration that reroutes half the city.

Roundabouts are their own adventure, especially the one circling the Arc de Triomphe, but take your time no matter where you are in the city.

I remind myself to stay calm, commit to my lane, and trust the flow.

Parking, however, is a different battle entirely. I’ve learned that leaving the car on the outskirts and switching to the Metro saves me time, stress, and a lot of circling.

Advice for travelling to Paris

Driving and travelling across Paris often feels like stepping into a world of organised chaos – so preparation is key for any visit.

If you are using a vehicle, then make sure you know the rules of the road in Paris and if you need a clean air sticker.

I think it is best is best to avoid driving during the busiest periods and use public transport where appropriate...and also use a smaller car if you can, as parking is challenging and there are a lot of narrow streets.

Rush hour traffic is no joke, as are the giant roundabouts (and not just the one around the Arc de Triomphe).

This is why parking on the outskirts and using public transport is often the best way to go.

I did this and it meant that I could enjoy the city with less stress and at a more enjoyable pace.

Personal experience has taught me that although the city is incredible, getting around it is difficult.

This is why I suggest that you always allow plenty of time and always book your attractions ahead of time if possible.

Tours of Paris

Paris has so many great tours to take part in, but my preference was to look at a mix of history and great food.

Here is my top 10:

1. Versailles Palace & Gardens Tour
2. Louvre Museum Highlights Tour
3. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour
4. Champagne & Oysters Food Tour
5. Devour Paris Food Tours
6. Notre‑Dame Exterior & History Tour
7. Citroën 2CV Private Classic Car Tour
8. Seine Boat River Cruise
9. Montmartre Food & Wine Evening Tour
10. Parc des Princes Stadium Tour

Best food in Paris

Eating in Paris always feels like a journey in itself, and I’ve learned that some of my favourite travel memories come from meals I never planned.

There is such a wide range of cuisines, but obviously you are here for the best France has to offer.

I love starting my days in a neighbourhood boulangerie, where the smell of fresh croissants practically pulls me through the door.

Even the simplest pastries feel like tiny works of art!

One thing you must do is head to a traditional bistro. These are the ones with red‑checked tablecloths and chalkboard menus – a classic French look.

Whether you are having boeuf bourguignon or the best onion soup you’ve ever had – Paris is the place to find it.

Parisian brasseries are another favourite of mine, where you can enjoy steak frites or a perfectly cooked confit de canard – often paired with a glass of wine or two.

For something more refined, I occasionally treat myself to a fine‑dining experience as Paris has no shortage of Michelin‑starred restaurants.

While they can be pricey, it is definitely worth a treat.

Dessert is a world of its own here. So, make sure that you grab some macarons, éclairs, and tarts.

Best things to do in Paris for free

Some of my favourite moments in Paris haven’t cost me anything!

Le Marais is perfect for aimless wandering for free. I stroll past medieval buildings and peek into courtyards.

Petit Palais is a museum that has a wide-ranging collection, from sculptures to paintings.

For something completely different, I love browsing the Puces de Saint‑Ouen, the city’s most famous flea market. Even if I’m not buying anything, wandering through stalls of vintage treasures and quirky collectible.

One of Paris’s most beautiful green spaces, the Luxembourg Gardens is the perfect place to relax without spending a euro. Wander among elegant tree-lined paths, watch locals playing pétanque, and admire the flowerbeds and fountains that surround the historic Luxembourg Palace. It's an ideal spot for a picnic or simply soaking up the Parisian atmosphere.

A stroll along Canal Saint-Martin offers a glimpse of a more laid-back side of Paris. Follow the picturesque waterway lined with trendy cafés, iron footbridges and chestnut trees, and watch boats navigate the canal's locks. The area is particularly lively on sunny days, when locals gather along the banks to socialise and enjoy the scenery.

Exploring the banks of the Seine is one of the best free activities in Paris. Walk past some of the city's most famous landmarks, including Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, while taking in stunning riverside views. Along the way, you'll find street performers, booksellers and plenty of spots to stop and admire the beauty of the French capital.

More than just a cemetery, Père Lachaise is an open-air museum filled with impressive monuments, sculptures and tree-lined avenues. Visitors can wander freely through its peaceful grounds and discover the final resting places of famous figures such as Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison and Édith Piaf. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it one of Paris's most fascinating and unusual free attractions.

Things to do in Paris with kids

Paris is a very child-friendly city, with many places that can create memories that will last a lifetime.

Here are some of the main highlights:

• Disneyland Paris: One of the world’s leading attractions, this has everything a family could want – rides, experiences, and iconic characters.
• Jardin du Luxembourg: A popular place for children, due to its large playgrounds, famous French puppet shows, and traditional sailing boats to use on the lakes and ponds.
• Eiffel Tower: The city’s main landmark is a great place for a photo, and also provides a lift to the top with a stunning view over Paris.
• Seine: Taking a river cruise is always a great way to see a city, and Paris is no different. Not only will they see famous landmarks, but also can come with local cuisine and stories of the local area.
• Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie: Paris's huge science museum with interactive exhibits. Arrive early as this is very popular with schools and visitors with children.
• Jardin d'Acclimatation – An amusement park with rides, gardens, and family attractions. It might not be Disneyland, but it is still very famous in France.

Things to do in Paris in 3 days

If you are visiting Paris, France for the first time, then this is a good plan to see the main highlights of the city in just three days.

Day 1

• Eiffel Tower
• Seine River cruise,
• Arc de Triomphe
• Champs-Elysees

Day 2

• Louvre Museum
• Notre Dame
• Latin Quarter

Day 3

• Disneyland Paris

Things to do in Paris for 1 day

For anyone who is in Paris for just a single day, then it can be difficult to get to everything we have highlighted in this guide. This is our suggestions for where to visit:

I’d start with a morning visit to the Eiffel Tower and the surrounding area known as the Trocadero (16^th arrondissement).

It is then a 25 minute walk or a short Metro trip to the Champs Elysees and the Arc de Triomphe.

Following this, you can grab a quick croissant or baguette.

As you are close to the River Seine, you can then take a cruise to see more of the city and get some great photos.

The next step is to take a short Metro trip to the Louvre Museum. Take some time to see the art and history within those historic walls.

Finally, if there is time, have an iconic French meal in the Saint Germain des Pres area of the city.

Things to do in Paris at night

The most important thing you can do on your trip to Paris once the sun goes down is to head to the Eiffel Tower.

The ‘sparkle’ happens for the five minutes at the start of every hour. This is when the whole frame is illuminated. This is very popular, so try and find the best place for a photo.

Another great option in the summer months is to take a river cruise along the Seine.

If you are in Moulin Rouge, then you can take in a cabaret show after enjoying some of France’s finest food in the La Marais or Saint Germain area.