Picture Paris, and for most people, a thousand images spring to mind – the gritty Paris of Émile Zola novels, romantic street scenes in iconic films like Before Sunset, or fun city scenes of Emily in Paris. And of course, Ella Fitzgerald’s breezy April in Paris.
Whether you’re a fan of 19th century literature or modern-day haute couture, if it’s culture you’re after, there’s a place in Paris for you.
Paris must-sees
The Eiffel Tower
If you know nothing else of Paris, you will almost certainly already be familiar with the Eiffel Tower. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, it stands an impressive 330m tall and towers over the historic city.
If you’re not afraid of heights, head to the viewing platform for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. And don’t miss the illuminations at night, when the tower lights up the sky with an impressive light show.
Best times to visit:
To dodge the long queues, plan your visit early in the morning or later in the evening. Sunset is particularly magical, as the tower lights up on the hour, every hour.
Top tips:
- Book your Eiffel Tower tickets in advance to skip the queues.
- Up for a challenge? Take the stairs to the second floor – 674 steps with incredible views along the way and fewer crowds.
- For the perfect photo, head to the Trocadéro Gardens, where you’ll get a breathtaking view of the tower.
Notre-Dame cathedral
Notre-Dame was gutted by a fire in 2019 but it’s made a remarkable comeback. A restoration project – to the tune of an estimated €850m – brought the cathedral back to life, making it one of Paris’s top sights once again.
If you’re a fan of Gothic architecture, Notre-Dame is a must-see, complete with gargoyles, ribbed vaults, pointed arches and intricate stonework.
During your visit, look out for:
- stained-glass windows: admire the beautiful stained-glass windows, which are a highlight of the cathedral’s interior.
- nave: the nave is the central space of Notre-Dame. where religious ceremonies have taken place for generations.
- the Parvis of Notre-Dame de Paris (also known as Place Notre-Dame): the square in front of the cathedral is a great place to soak in the Paris atmosphere.
Louvre Museum
Paris is home to some of the world’s most iconic artworks, and many of them are housed in the Louvre. See the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, along with 35,000 other artworks.
Make the most of your visit:
- Arrive early or hire a Louvre Museum guide for expert insights and a hassle-free experience.
- Visit on a Wednesday or Friday evening when the museum stays open until 9pm. It’s a great way to avoid the crowds and take your time exploring.
- Plan ahead! With so much to see, decide on your must-visit exhibits in advance or spread your visit over multiple days to truly soak it all in.
Montmartre
Overlooking Paris from the top of a hill, sits the charming and bohemian neighbourhood of Montmartre – AKA Paris’s 18th arrondissement.
Montmartre is the perfect spot for aimless wandering and getting pleasantly lost among the winding streets and bustling squares.
Discover hidden cafes, boutiques and historic sites. Or soak up the atmosphere of artists and street performers, and experience Paris’s creative energy for yourself.
Visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica and bustling Place du Tertre, explore quirky shops or simply spend a little time people-watching.
Seine river cruise
The Seine is a highlight of any trip to Paris, giving you the chance to experience the magic of Paris from a different perspective.
Go City pass
If you have a Go City Explorer Pass, you can hop on board and see a new side of the city.
Unique cruise experiences
Choose from champagne tasting cruises, dinner cruises or live music cruises. Visit the Paris tourism office or ask at your accommodation for recommendations about which you’d prefer.
River cruises sail past Paris’s most iconic landmarks, like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame cathedral and Musée d’Orsay – as well as charming bridges and quaysides.
So, sit back and relax as you soak in the romantic Paris ambience.
Paris flea markets
Flea markets in Paris offer a range of delights for anyone interested in random and unique finds.
From retro clothes hauls to an abundance of collectables and antique furniture, Paris’s many flea market stalls, make for an exhilarating shopping experience.
Markets include:
- Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen: a huge flea market that’s well worth a visit if your shopping list is long and you’re ready for a day of wandering.
- Marché aux Puces de Vanves: soak up the atmosphere and discover eclectic offerings. From old books to vinyl records, silver cutlery, glass ware, vintage clothes and paintings, you’ll find it all here.
Flea markets offer a rare glimpse into Paris’s rich cultural heritage and a wonderful chance to bring a part of that home with you.
Shakespeare and Company bookstore
In the heart of Paris’s Latin Quarter sits the Shakespeare and Company bookshop. Here you’ll find a sanctuary for book lovers and a chance to find rare books.
Browse shelves to find everything from classic literature to bestsellers or enjoy one of the regular book readings.
When you’ve finished soaking up the cosy atmosphere, you can take your new books for a stroll along the Seine just around the corner.
Day trips from Paris
If you’ve explored Paris and you’re ready for a trip to the beyond, it’s time to discover some delights a little further afield. Read on to discover history, entertainment and wine-loving experiences beyond the city.
Versailles – experience the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles
A short journey from Paris is the Palace of Versailles – a testament to opulence and French royal history. Once home to King Louis XIV, AKA the ‘Sun King’, this UNESCO World Heritage site dazzles with its intricate architecture, majestic gardens, and the famous Hall of Mirrors.
Highlights:
- Royal apartments: explore the lavishly decorated rooms that once housed French royalty.
- Hall of mirrors: this iconic gallery boasts 357 mirrors reflecting the grandeur of the palace.
- Gardens: designed by André Le Nôtre, the formal gardens feature fountains, sculptures, and manicured lawns.
Tips:
- Timing: arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during weekends and holidays.
- Tickets: purchase tickets in advance to skip the lines.
- Guided tours: consider a guided tour for in-depth historical insights.
Disneyland Paris – a fun break from sightseeing
If you’re travelling with children, Disneyland Paris is must-see. But it’s also a dose of magic and adventure for all ages. Located approximately 45 minutes from central Paris, this theme park combines classic Disney charm with unique European flair.
Highlights:
- Attractions: if you enjoy rides, there’s plenty on offer, like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean.
- Parades and shows: enjoy daily parades featuring beloved Disney characters and spectacular evening fireworks.
- Dining: enjoy diverse food options, from quick-service bites to themed restaurants.
Tips:
- Tickets: book tickets online in advance to secure the best deals.
- FastPass: utilise the FastPass system to reduce wait times for popular rides.
- Accommodation: consider staying at a Disney hotel for extended magic and extra perks.
Champagne region – a must for wine lovers
The Champagne region, east of Paris, is a must for wine enthusiasts with its rolling vineyards and historic cellars. Cities like Reims and Épernay are renowned for producing the world’s finest champagnes.
Highlights:
- Champagne houses: tour prestigious producers such as Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot.
- Reims cathedral: visit the Gothic cathedral where French kings were traditionally crowned.
- Scenic drives: explore picturesque villages and landscapes that define the region.
Tips:
- Tours: schedule champagne tastings and cellar tours in advance.
- Transport: get there by train or car; consider guided tours for a hassle-free experience.
- Dining: pair local champagnes with regional food at charming bistros.
If you’re looking for a cultural fix, you really can’t go wrong with a weekend or longer in Paris.
With its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighbourhoods, the City of Light continues to captivate visitors from around the world.
Whether you’re climbing the Eiffel Tower, admiring the Mona Lisa, or people watching from a cosy Parisian café, there’s always something new to discover.
Don’t forget your travel insurance
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, make sure your UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is up to date and valid. Your GHIC will usually cover you for medical treatment at state-run facilities.
But it’s important to make sure you also have travel insurance for France, which covers you for everything from:
- Cancellation cover up to £7,500*
- Emergency medical and repatriation cover
- 24/7 medical support from abroad
Ready to get a travel insurance quote?
*For our Deluxe policy.
