Paris

It can be difficult to draw up a list of highlights for any city - and with so much to see and do, Paris definitely has loads of superb options.

Our list is drawn from review sites, visitor numbers, and our own trips. 

Where relevant we've included some links for booking the following highlights - just use the underlined text.

Musée d'Orsay

The museum was once a large train station, Gare d'Orsay, built at the end of the nineteenth century.  It operated as the main Paris link to south-west France until 1939.  In 1970 it was close to being demolished and after a long journey finally opened as an arts museum in 1986.  The focus is French art from 1848 to 1914.  So expect Cezanne, Degas, Manet, Monet, and Renoir as well as a host of others, all in a stunning setting.  Musée d'Orsay.

​Eiffel Tower

​This huge cast-iron structure is an iconic emblem of Paris and France.  It was completed for the World Fair of 1889 and was popular with visitors from the outset.  Artists protested and others declared it impossible to build, but not only did it go up in two years it also outlived the planned 20 year life.  The 330 metre structure is visited by almost 7 million people a year in its busier years.  There are lots of varied ticket options and here's a simple version.  Eiffel Tower.

​Louvre

​The world's most visited museum, housing the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo alongside thousands of other pieces, opened in 1793.  It has eight distinct cultural sections and has items from prehistory through to the modern day.  It sits within the Louvre Palace, once a defensive building but then the Royal Residence in Paris from 1546 before the Royal Family relocated principally to Versailles in 1682.  The Louvre is a real classic.

​Notre Dame

​The cathedral was begun in 1163 and completed over the next 100 years.  It was significant in Paris for many years but desecrated during the French Revolution.  Napoleon had his coronation at the cathedral and a number of Presidential funerals have also been hosted.  Most recently it received 12 million visitors a year but suffered a disastrous fire in 2019 forcing its closure, with renovations hoped to be concluded by 2025.  Even with outside views only it's a highlight.

​Arc de Triomphe

​Inspired by the Arch of Titus in Rome, this 50-metre-high structure was built in 1806 as a memorial to those lost during the Revolution and Napoleonic Wars, its creation encouraged by Napoleon's victory at Austerlitz.  The arch sits in the middle of a 12-arm roundabout and is inspiring from the ground whilst offering great views from the top.  Arc de Triomphe.

​Sainte-Chapelle​

​This Gothic styled chapel was part of the broader Palais de la Cité of the medieval Kings of France.  Consecrated in 1248, it contains a huge amount of thirteenth century stained glass.  It was damaged during the Revolution as a symbol of Royalty and Religion but subsequently restored.  It can be visited on its own or combined with the nearby Conciergerie.  Sainte-Chapelle only, or Conciergerie only.

Sacre Coeur and Montmartre

​The grand Basilica of Sacre Coeur de Montmartre was consecrated as recently as 1919, construction having begun in 1875.  The location was chosen for its dominating position and tradition of martyrdom on the hill.  The dome rises 200 metres above the Seine.  The surrounding Montmartre is then known for cafes and street artists making a trip slightly out of the centre of the city well worthwhile. 

Palais Garnier

​Also known as the Opera Garnier, this almost 2000-seat venue opened in 1875.  As the most expensive building built in the era, it lives up to expectations with its decorative interior and external areas.  Famous composers adorn the outside and the inside is an exemplar of opulence.  Whilst you can attend an event it is also possible to visit the building too.  

Champs Élysées

​This straight avenue runs 1.2 miles from Place de Charles de Gaulle (and the Arc de Triomphe) to Place de la Concorde.  It is dotted with theatres, cafés and high-end shops.  It was laid out in 1667 and named as it is today in 1709.  It has been the location of a number of notable military parades by both sides of wars with France from 1871 to 1945.  Since 1975 it has also hosted the last stage of the Tour de France cycle race.

​Les Invalides

​This large site is a collection of buildings and museums that all have a military link.  This includes the Musée des Plans-Relief and Musée de l'Armée.  A number of French military heroes are celebrated and within the large domed church are shrines to a number of French military leaders.  The centre piece of this building is the tomb of Napoleon and on its own worthy of a visit to Les Invalides.

Need more information on the Paris airports? Just click any of the images below.

Paris CDG Charles de Gaulle Paris ORY Orly