📍 Things to Do in Paris: Top Attractions & Experiences
The best things to do in Paris, from must-see landmarks to the experiences worth your time — plus how long to stay and how to get around.
Top things to do in Paris
- Walk the Seine at golden hour. Walk the Seine at golden hour, from Notre-Dame toward the Eiffel Tower.
- Pick one big museum (the Louvre or the Musée d'Orsay) and arrive early. Pick one big museum (the Louvre or the Musée d'Orsay) and arrive early.
- Get lost on foot in Le Marais and Montmartre. Get lost on foot in Le Marais and Montmartre.
- Visit Versailles first thing. Visit Versailles first thing, before the tour buses arrive.
How many days do you need in Paris?
Plan for 2 to 3 days to enjoy the highlights without rushing. Add extra time for day trips or a slower pace.
Best time to visit
Late spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are the sweet spots: mild weather, long light, and gardens at their best without peak-summer crowds. July and August are warm but busy, and many small local restaurants close while Parisians take their own holidays. Winter is cold and grey but cheaper, with festive markets in December.
Getting around
The Métro is the fastest way across the city and runs until around 1am (later on weekends). Use contactless on your phone or a rechargeable Navigo Easy card. Central Paris is also wonderfully walkable — many "far" sights are a 20-minute stroll apart along the Seine. Skip renting a car; parking and traffic are a headache you do not need.
Tips for visiting Paris’s attractions
- Book timed tickets online for the big sights to skip queues.
- Start early or visit late to avoid the busiest crowds and best light.
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll cover a lot on foot.
- Group nearby sights together to save time crossing the city.
- Keep valuables secure in busy tourist areas.
✈️ Before you go to Paris
Sort the practical stuff that saves money and stress:
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Paris?
Highlights include: Walk the Seine at golden hour, from Notre-Dame toward the Eiffel Tower; Pick one big museum (the Louvre or the Musée d'Orsay) and arrive early; Get lost on foot in Le Marais and Montmartre; Visit Versailles first thing, before the tour buses arrive.
How many days do you need in Paris?
Most travelers need 2 to 3 days to see the main highlights at a comfortable pace, longer if you want day trips or a slower rhythm.
When is the best time to visit Paris?
Late spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) are the sweet spots: mild weather, long light, and gardens at their best without peak-summer crowds. July and August are warm but busy, and many small local restaurants close while Parisians take their own holidays. Winter is cold and grey but cheaper, with festive markets in December.