From the winding streets of Montmartre to the grand boulevards lined with cafés and boutiques, Paris invites you to soak in its timeless beauty one step at a time.
Here are 10 things Paris, France is known for—and the top things to do when you're exploring this extraordinary capital.
1. The Eiffel Tower
It’s impossible to talk about Paris without mentioning its most famous landmark. The Eiffel Tower is not only a symbol of the city but one of the most recognizable structures in the world. You can admire it from the Trocadéro Gardens, take a picnic to Champ de Mars or ride the elevator to the top for sweeping views of the city skyline. Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must for first-time travelers and still magical for those returning.
2. The Louvre Museum
Paris, France is known for the Louvre, the world’s most visited museum and home to iconic works of art like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and Liberty Leading the People. Housed in a former royal palace, the museum itself is a work of art. Whether you're an art history lover or just here to catch the highlights, exploring the Louvre is one of the most essential things to do in Paris.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
The recently reopened Notre-Dame Cathedral, which has undergone extensive restoration following the 2019 fire, remains one of Paris’s most revered landmarks. This Gothic masterpiece is known for its intricate façade, dramatic towers and stained-glass rose windows. The cathedral's exterior and surrounding Île de la Cité are also a hub of activity and history. Some of the restoration work will continue until 2027 or 2028.
4. Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
Paris, France is known for its grand boulevards and none is more famous than the Champs-Élysées. Lined with shops, cafés and theaters, this avenue stretches from Place de la Concorde to the majestic Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top of the Arc for one of the best views of the city, with avenues radiating out in every direction.
5. Montmartre and the Sacré-Cœur
High on a hill in the north of the city, Montmartre is a charming, historic neighborhood once home to artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. Its winding streets lead to the white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, offering panoramic views of Paris. Exploring Montmartre’s squares, street art and galleries is one of the most atmospheric things to do in Paris.
6. Café Culture and People-Watching
Paris is known for its café culture—where locals linger over coffee, read the newspaper or chat for hours. Whether you're seated under an awning in Saint-Germain or grabbing a pastry in Le Marais, spending time at a sidewalk café is part of the Paris experience. Order an espresso, sit back and let the rhythm of the city unfold around you.
7. Seine River Cruises
The Seine River winds through the heart of Paris, passing under picturesque bridges and beside many of the city’s top attractions. A Seine river cruise—especially at sunset—is one of the most romantic and scenic ways to see the city. You’ll glide past landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, all beautifully lit after dark.
8. French Cuisine and Bakeries
Paris, France is known for its culinary scene, from gourmet Michelin-starred restaurants to cozy bistros and bustling markets. Food lovers will want to try classics like croissants, escargot, duck confit and coq au vin. Don’t miss local bakeries for a fresh baguette, flaky pain au chocolat or a perfect macaron. And of course, there’s always time for a cheese and wine pairing at a corner café.
9. Fashion and Shopping
As one of the world’s fashion capitals, Paris is known for style and elegance. Shop at iconic department stores like Galeries Lafayette, browse luxury boutiques along Rue Saint-Honoré or hunt for vintage finds in Le Marais. Whether you’re window-shopping or indulging, fashion is woven into the city’s fabric—and one of the most fun things to do in Paris.
10. Day Trips to Versailles
Just outside the city lies the Palace of Versailles, one of the most opulent royal residences ever built. A day trip here offers a glimpse into the grandeur of France’s monarchy, with ornate rooms, gilded halls and the famous Hall of Mirrors. The expansive gardens are equally stunning and perfect for a scenic stroll. Many visitors combine a visit to Versailles with a guided excursion from Paris.
Ready to experience the magic of the City of Light? Explore these Paris shore excursions and make the most of your time in France.
FAQs
1. What is Paris, France Known For?
Paris, France is known for its iconic landmarks, world-renowned art and fashion, café culture and romantic charm. From the Eiffel Tower to the cobbled streets of Montmartre, every part of the city tells a story—one filled with history, beauty and creativity. With so many things to do in Paris, it’s easy to see why the City of Light remains one of the most beloved destinations in the world. Paris doesn’t just live up to the hype—it exceeds it, every time.
2. Where is Paris, France Located?
Paris is located in northern France, on the banks of the Seine River. The city sits in the Île-de-France region and is about 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Charles de Gaulle Airport, France’s largest international gateway. Its central location makes it easy to reach by train from other European capitals, with high-speed connections from London, Brussels and beyond.
3. Is Paris Worth Visiting?
Yes, Paris is worth visiting for its landmarks, world-class museums, cuisine and atmosphere that blends history with modern life. The Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Montmartre are just the beginning—many travelers fall in love with the city’s simple pleasures, like walking along the Seine or enjoying a croissant at a café. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, Paris always offers something new to discover.
4. What is the Nickname of Paris?
The most famous nickname for Paris is “The City of Light.” The name originally came from its role as a center of education and philosophy during the Enlightenment, but it also reflects the city’s early adoption of street lighting in the 17th century. Today, the nickname still fits — especially when monuments like the Eiffel Tower and bridges along the Seine glow beautifully at night.
5. What are 5 Facts About Paris?
Five interesting facts about Paris are: 1. The Eiffel Tower was originally built as a temporary structure for the 1889 World’s Fair. 2. The Louvre is the most visited museum in the world, attracting millions of visitors every year. 3. Paris has over 30 bridges that cross the Seine, many with scenic viewpoints. 4. The city is home to around 130 museums covering art, history, science and culture. 5. Paris’s metro system is one of the oldest in the world, opening in 1900 and still serving millions of passengers daily.
6. Is Paris or London Better to Visit?
Paris is better for art, food, and romance, while London is better for history, theater, and multicultural energy. Paris offers a more compact, walkable layout with café culture and iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, while London’s highlights include Buckingham Palace, the British Museum, and a buzzing pub scene. Many travelers visit both since they are just over two hours apart by train.
Planning a Trip to Paris?
Want to learn more about this French gem? Check out these guides to plan your next trip:
- Paris, France Shore Excursions - Plan your Paris–Le Havre adventure around top landmarks, guided tours, markets and immersive experiences.
- When is the Best Time to Visit Paris? - Immerse in Paris’s best‑visit periods featuring scenic strolls, café culture and memorable outdoor experiences.
- What to Eat in Paris - Connect to Paris’s culinary traditions highlighting heritage recipes, local ingredients and authentic French spirit.
- What to Buy When Shopping in Paris - Spot Paris’s must‑buy items including chocolates, linens, jewelry, fashion staples and regional delicacies.
- The Best Ways to Get Around Paris - Find the best ways to move through Paris including metro hubs, bus lines and walkable landmarks.
- Famous Landmarks in Paris - Roam through Paris’s landmark‑rich neighborhoods filled with monuments, cafés, viewpoints and standout city moments.
- Visiting the Eiffel Tower: Everything You Need to Know - Investigate Eiffel Tower details mixing engineering stories, design features, historic milestones and scenic perspectives.
- A Guide to the Best Neighborhoods in Paris - Roam through Paris’s diverse neighborhoods filled with viewpoints, museums, boutiques and standout city scenes.
