What to do in Paris

Activities, attractions and tours

Paris
Paris showing heritage elements, heritage architecture and a fountain
8th Arrondissement showing heritage architecture and street scenes
Paris
Paris

Paris Tourist Attractions & Activities

Travel aficionados will tell you that a trip to the “City of Lights” is an unmissable destination on any true globetrotter’s checklist—no matter what type of getaway you prefer. From world-class art museums to historic cathedrals, luxurious gardens, high-end shopping, and some of the finest cuisine in the world, the attractions in Paris can be summed up in one word: breathtaking. Whether you’ve been captivated by Paris previously or have yet to experience the magic of the city, there is always something magnificent to discover in this awe-inspiring centre of culture.

Things to Do in Paris

There is no shortage of fantastic sightseeing options off the beaten path, but there are certain Paris attractions that you simply can’t miss. Drink in the panoramic views from atop the Eiffel Tower, or head to the outskirts of town to visit Disneyland Paris. Of course, the collections at the world-famous Louvre art museum are très magnifique and may entice you for several return visits, but the Musée d'Orsay and Musée National d'Art Moderne in the Pompidou Centre are also outstanding options for art lovers. If you prefer outdoor excursions, the grounds of Luxembourg Garden are filled with the sounds of laughing children, the smells of fresh baguettes and flowers, and the sights of Parisians relaxing under trees and on park benches. Pull up a seat, sip on your cafe au lait, and enjoy the scenery.

Stroll along the Seine to take in Paris’ many monuments, including the Sainte-Chapelle, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, and the Gothic spires of Notre Dame Cathedral. Everywhere you look is another astonishing sight, so make sure your camera is charged and ready. Come nightfall, the legendary Moulin Rouge’s cabaret shows provide a decadent delight to those who enjoy entertainment on the risqué side, and there are plenty of late-night cafes and jazz clubs to satiate your other sensory desires. As the home of haute cuisine, Paris is known for its plethora of Michelin-starred chefs and restaurants, so no matter what your budget is, you’re sure to sink your teeth into some of the most sumptuous dishes in the world.

The best of Paris awaits when you make your plans on Expedia.com.au. Not only will you find amazing deals on the top attractions, it’s also super easy to book, so you can focus on the fun parts of planning. Plus, you can get your flight, rental car, and hotel in one convenient location. Don’t delay on your holiday to Paris—book with Expedia.com.au today and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.


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Top places to visit

1. Disneyland® Paris

A visit to Disneyland® Paris is perfect for families. This well-known theme park inspires the imagination, fulfilling dreams for kids of all ages. It’s also a very enjoyable spot for honeymooners, retirees, groups of friends; in fact, anyone. Join the fun at the more than 50 attractions, parades and shows of this much-loved spot, very conveniently located not far from Paris.
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Dreams come true with a trip to this beloved theme park. Find all the magic, excitement, thrills and joy you could ever wish for.

2. Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower dominates the Paris skyline and forms an essential part of the heart-stopping Parisian panorama, viewable from the top of many of the city’s prominent landmarks. But there is no better view of the city than from the 276-metre high top floor observation area of the tower itself, where visitors can treat themselves to a glass of bubbly from the Champagne bar and toast their trip while feeling as though they are truly on top of the world.
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Gaze out over Paris from the top of its most important icon.

3. Louvre Museum

The Louvre offers 6 hectares of exhibition space housing some of the world’s most famous works of art. Visitors flock from around the globe, many drawn to the Louvre by the legendary Mona Lisa and other works including the marble statues of the Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo. The Musée du Louvre - known to most simply as the Louvre – houses a vast collection of works with objects in the collections ranging in date from 5,000 B.C. to the 19th century.
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Spend the day wandering around the awe inspiring world-famous paintings, sculptures and decorative arts on offer at the Louvre.

4. Arc de Triomphe

Cutting an imposing figure at the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle, the Arc de Triomphe can be accessed from one of 12 tree-lined avenues, named after France’s military leaders, that radiate out to form a star. The most famous of these is the Champs-Elysées, with the Arc de Triomphe situated at its western end. Despite the near-constant stream of busy traffic, pedestrians are afforded plenty of space to wind in and out of the columns that form the base of this architectural masterpiece.
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Arc de Triomphe showing night scenes, a city and street scenes

5. Champs-Élysées

Walk along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and gaze up at the imposing Arc de Triomphe. Discover the history behind the intricate carvings decorating it. Enjoy the walk along the boulevard and shop in the designer stores lining the road.
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Champs Elysees featuring heritage architecture, a city and signage

6. Notre-Dame

Notre Dame sits on le Île de la Cité, one of two natural islands situated in the middle of the Seine. Construction on the awe inspiring building at the heart of the city began in 1163, and was commissioned by Bishop Maurice de Sully to replace the 4th century cathedral dedicated to St. Stephen. Work was completed in the 14th century with the installation of the huge flying buttresses.
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Notre Dame Cathedral featuring a church or cathedral, heritage architecture and heritage elements

7. Palais Garnier

Treat yourself to an evening of classical entertainment at the Paris Opera (Opéra National de Paris). Admire the handsome architecture and luxurious interiors of Palais Garnier, the home of this historic French opera company. Learn about the 300-year-old past of the Paris Opera via art collections, multimedia displays and museum exhibits.
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Paris showing heritage elements, street scenes and a city

8. Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Gardens date back to 1612, when the Palais du Luxembourg and its grounds were built at the request of Marie de Medici. The park opened to the public in the 19th century and the 21-hectare Luxembourg Gardens is today known as a park of the people. The palace now houses the French Senate.
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Wander through the tranquil Luxembourg Gardens at a leisurely pace and admire some of the monuments scattered within.

What to do in Paris


Discover the most popular places to visit in Paris

Explore areas of Paris

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Paris City Center

4/5(1 area review)

Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame are a few top attractions in Paris City Center. Hop around the city on the metro at Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre Metro Station or Louvre - Rivoli Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, stunning cathedral and charming cafes.

Paris City Center
Marais - Pompidou - Notre Dame de Paris featuring modern architecture and a square or plaza as well as a large group of people

Marais

4.5/5(37 area reviews)

Admire historic and architectural marvels and visit one of the largest museums of modern art in Europe in the 3rd and 4th Arrondissements of Paris.

Marais
French Academy showing heritage elements, signage and heritage architecture

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

5/5(33 area reviews)

Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Check out top attractions like Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Pres and Place Saint-Germain-des-Pres, and jump on the metro at Mabillon Station or Saint-Germain-des-Pres Station to see more of the city.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés
6th Arrondissement showing a garden and a statue or sculpture

6th Arrondissement

5/5(28 area reviews)

Read about Parisian intelligentsia, discover the lively Latin Quarter and enjoy scenic gardens and bohemian café culture.

6th Arrondissement
Les Invalides featuring heritage architecture and street scenes as well as a large group of people

7th Arrondissement

4.5/5(59 area reviews)

Visit this district’s well-known attraction, the iconic Eiffel Tower, and its other superb historic buildings and museums.

7th Arrondissement
Arc de Triomphe showing night scenes, a city and street scenes

Champs-Élysées

You might enjoy the river views while in Champs-Élysées. Champs-Élysées is a notable sight, and you can get around town at Franklin D. Roosevelt Metro Station or Champs-Élysées - Clemenceau Station to see more of the city.

Champs-Élysées

 

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Day trip destinations from Paris