What to do in Paris

Activities, attractions and tours

The Eiffel Tower with a clear blue sky in the background.
The Eiffel Tower with a water fountain in the foreground.
A busy street with a large archway in the background.
A busy outdoor café with people sitting at tables, a chain barrier, and a stone bollard.
A large crowd at a historic palace with a fountain of bronze horses.

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.

Activities


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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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A castle with pink and blue towers, a clock, and golden accents.

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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The Eiffel Tower surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

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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The Louvre Museum's courtyard with the iconic glass pyramid.

4. 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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A wide boulevard lined with historic buildings, trees, and a clear blue sky.

5. 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 with its twin towers, rose window, and statues.

6. 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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The Arc de Triomphe in Paris, surrounded by trees and flags.

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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The facade of the Academie Nationale de Musique with ornate sculptures and columns.

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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A park with a fountain, palm trees, and people sitting on benches.

What to do in Paris


Stay near popular Paris attractions

Our guide on where to stay in Paris

Find the best Paris areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Paris
Learn more about Paris

Marais

Travellers love Marais for its popular shops, and you can see more of Paris by jumping on the metro at Saint-Paul Station or Saint-Sebastien - Froissart Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Picasso Museum and Place des Vosges.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

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

Latin Quarter

Enjoy the charming cafes in Latin Quarter. Panthéon is a worthwhile stop, and you can jump on the metro at Paris Luxembourg Station or Cluny - La Sorbonne Station to see more of Paris.

Montmartre

If you're spending time in Montmartre, you might enjoy attractions like Place du Tertre and Sacré-Cœur Basilica. You might also enjoy the neighbourhood's ample dining options before hopping on the metro at Abbesses Station to see more of the city.

Opéra

If you're spending time in Opéra, check out sights like Palais Garnier or Galeries Lafayette and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Chaussee d'Antin - La Fayette Station or Opéra Station.


 

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Day trip destinations from Paris

Frequently asked questions

Is Paris worth visiting?
Known for its views and shopping, finding fun things to do in Paris is a cinch. Don't forget to add Eiffel Tower to your trip itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Paris?
Kick your day off with a visit to Eiffel Tower and Place du Trocadéro. Then, explore different parts of Paris for a quick bite and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Paris?
The top tourist attraction in Paris is Eiffel Tower, so don't forget to add it to your sightseeing list.
Is three days enough to stay in Paris?
Three days will give you enough time to tick off popular city sights, such as Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame. The average stay in Paris is three days. If you feel the urge to extend your adventure, Roissy-en-France isn't far away.
Is Paris a walkable city?
It depends on what you want to do and see in Paris. Several attractions, like Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll around some of Paris's neighbourhoods, 8th Arrondissement is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while 9th Arrondissement is 3 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Paris with kids?
What to do in Paris for adults?
There are loads of things to do in Paris, with experiences for adults of all ages. End the day with a visit to Clos Montmartre or Champs-Élysées.
Are there free things to do in Paris?
One of the top ways to find free things to do in Paris is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Place du Trocadéro is one spot that doesn't charge an admission fee.

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