Top 10 Best Places in Paris

Planning that getaway to the city of love? With so many amazing places in Paris around every corner, where does one begin?

Paris is the capital of France, one of the most enchanting cities in Europe, and one of the most visited cities in the world. The moment you arrive it will have you feeling as though you have stepped into a fairy-tale land (take a look at our compilation of the best travel tips for Paris, you’ll need them).

Though just enjoying yourself at a cute parisian cafΓ© taking in the scenery will have you falling in love with the city, there are a few places you will want to make sure you plan a little time for.

Many blogs published their selection of the best places in Paris and best things to do in Paris, such as localmilkblog, hippocketwifi, or wowtravel.

I also want to give you my point of view on the subject, so these are the top 10 best places in Paris to hit during your visit according to .. me πŸ™‚

1. The Louvre Palace

The Louvre Pyramid, Paris

Paris is known as an epicenter for art. Whether you are a fan of art galleries or not, The Louvre is one that will delight all.

The Louvre is the world’s largest museum. Not only is it one impressive museum, but it is also one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks.

The museum is located in the Louvre Palace and before you tour the museum you can get your picture next to the well-known Pyramide du Louvre.

Here you will find top pieces of artwork from the Winged Victory of Samothrace and the Venus de Milo, to the Coronation of Napoleon and the Mona Lisa.

2. Jardins Des Tuileries

Tuileries Gardens is located near the Louvre and is Paris’ biggest park.

A couple at Tuileries Garden, Paris
Tuileries Garden in Paris on a sunny day. Β© Nevzat GΓΆkmen / 500px

The park is filled with charming French style landscaping, views of some of the cities’ most impressive landmarks, two ponds to relax by, and impressive symmetrical walkways winding you through the beautiful grounds.

It is the perfect place to stop and relax a bit in your day, and even maybe have your first picnic in Paris!

3. Opera Garnier

Inside Opera Garnier - Paris
Inside Opera Garnier – Paris Β© Nabil Zainol Abidin

The Paris Opera House is overwhelming in terms of its beauty. It is incredibly ornate and when you enter it has a beautiful grand staircase that will take your breathe away.

The Opera Garnier was built by Napoleon III and was home to the opera and ballet. It is also the location where the idea of the Phantom of the Opera came from.

If you have the chance, enjoy a show at this gorgeous theater or you can take a tour to at least take a bit of its grandeur while in the area. Trust me, it won’t disappoint.

4. Notre-Dame Cathedral

The Notre-Dame Cathedral is an absolutely beautiful architectural masterpiece found in Paris. It is one of the most iconic Catholic Churches in the world and a top landmark in Paris.

Notre-Dame Cathedral, view from La Seine - Paris
Notre-Dame Cathedral, view from La Seine – Paris Β© Yvon Lacaille

Recently the Notre-Dame Cathedral had a fire, damaging a good portion of the church and causing it to close its doors to the public for the time being.

However, most parts of the structure are still intact such as the two towers.

You might not be able to go in, but it is worth stopping by to see from the outside. Its gothic architecture is truly unique and is an incredible sight.

5. La Seine

The Seine river & Bateaux Mouches - Paris
The Seine river & Bateaux Mouches – Paris Β© ι˜³ε…‰ζ²™ζ»©οΌˆSunnybeach) / 500px

The Seine is a breathtaking sight and a place you won’t want to leave! It is the river that runs through the heart of Paris and to many, it is what captures the essence of Paris.

There are daytime and sunset cruises on the Seine bringing you throughout the different sections of the city where you will get the chance to take in some gorgeous views of Parisian architecture and landmarks off the water.

If a boat cruise is not for you, the Seine can be enjoyed by a leisurely stroll along its waters or on top of its beautiful Parisian bridges. There are places to sit along the river as well with little grass areas, benches, and tables.

The Seine river is said to be one of the most romantic places in Paris.

6. Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower itself is what comes to everyone’s mind when they think of Paris. It is one major landmark in the center of this beautiful city that you will not want to miss.

Eiffel Tower, Paris

There are several ways to enjoy the site. During the day you can enjoy a picnic on the grass marveling at your incredible view of the Eiffel Tower. At night you can take a stroll by the Eiffel Tower as it’s twinkle lights sparkle in the night sky.

No matter when you decide to visit, you won’t want to miss traveling to the top of the tower where you will have a stunning view of the city.

7. Arc De Triomphe & Champs-ElysΓ©es

Though it may be a bit busy, the Champs Elysees is an area of Paris you will at least want to take a walk down to see.

Arc de Triomphe, Paris

The street itself is beautifully structured, lined perfectly with trees. Here you will find many restaurants to explore and high-end stores if you want to try shopping in Paris.

As you walk down to the strip coming from Place de la Concorde, you will end at the majestic Arc de Triomphe.

Under the archway is the home to the Unknown Soldier. Here you can also go to the top for a spectacular view of the city and you learn about the landmark’s history.

8. Versailles

Versailles Palace & Gardens is a showstopper you won’t want to miss during your travels.

Versailles Gardens

The palace drips with elegance, lavish dΓ©cor, and grandeur. It will sure to impress with its Hall of Mirrors, 2300 rooms and intricate details in every nook.

The Versailles Gardens are equally as stunning. The gardens are one of the biggest in the world covering almost 2000 acres.

Versailles Palace is beautiful and will surely have you leaving in awe.

9. Le Moulin Rouge

Home to a world-famous cabaret show, Moulin Rouge is a fun entertainment spot perfect to catch a show or at least swing by to see.

The Moulin Rouge, Paris
Β© Guillaume CHANSON

Outside you will see its well-known red windmill and inside you will find one of a kind French cancan performances.

Moulin Rouge is located in Montmartre. It is a show that is unique to Paris and will leave your night dazzling.

10. Paris Catacombs

One place in Paris you may not think to visit are the Paris Catacombs, but once you go you will be happy you did.

Paris Catacombs
Β© Roberto Manzanares

It is a unique spot in Paris where you are walking through tunnels of skulls and bones.

Originally just limestone quarries, the quarries ended up being used as a space for human remains when there was no more room in the cemeteries in the 1700s.

It is not for the faint of heart, but it a one of a kind experience you won’t find elsewhere.