Paris, the ‘City of Lights’, offers a plethora of things to do and see. While it might seem difficult to narrow down and pick what to do, we’ve hand-picked classic experiences, the cream of the crop, which includes a little something for everyone. The things to do listed here concoct a complete Parisian affair. Not only will your trip be forever imprinted in your memory but is also entirely authentic!

Here are the top places to visit in Paris:

1. The Eiffel Tower

This edifice, the Eiffel Tower, symbolises so much to Paris just like how the Statue of Liberty to New York does. ‘The Iron Lady’ (‘La Dame de Fer’), built by Gustave Eiffel, a French engineer, is one of the most visited monuments throughout the world. Going up the Eiffel Tower offers superb panoramic views and what’s better is gazing at the tower at night – when every girder is lit up and iridescent.

Along with visiting the Eiffel Tower, you can take a cruise on the Seine River. Cruising down the Seine while seeing the city pass by is absolutely worth it!

Hours to spend: 1-2 hours
Hours: Varies according to season

2. Disneyland

The bustling and thrilling Disneyland, an amusement park, allures people of all ages. This place has several exciting rides, entertaining shows, animated movies, food stalls and the famous Disney parades. Spend your day enjoying famous rides like Crush’s Coaster, Dumbo the Flying Elephant or Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups, end the day with Disney fireworks while meeting famous Disney characters all through the day. This will be one well spent and memorable day for the entire family in Paris.

Time to spend: Half to full day
Hours: Everyday – 10 am to 8 pm

3. The Louvre

Not only is this the world’s greatest but also the world’s largest art museum. This 6,75,000 square foot museum is the ultimate reward for all travellers. It contains about 35,000 pieces of art from a variety of cultures and time periods. From Grecian sculptures to Egyptian mummy tombs to thousands of paintings, there is a lot to pursue here. Few of the most popular pieces are the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory and Venus de Milo. In this vast space, it’s best to navigate by covering areas of interest that you are fond of. Don’t fret; for getting lost in the labyrinth only means stumbling onto something more bodacious.

Time to spend: Half to full day
Hours: Monday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday – 9 am to 6 pm, Wednesday and Friday – 9 am to 9:45 pm

4. Versailles Palace (Chateau de Versailles)

An opulent palace sweeping acres, constructed by King Louis XIV, is well-known for the royal palace and the gardens. Travellers from all over the world make their way to Versailles to behold the grandeur in person. From 1682 until 1789, this palace was the seat of the royal court and also the kingdom’s political capital. Today, when you drop into the palace, amid all the dramatic frescoes, gold figurines and cascading crystal chandeliers, you can visit the meticulously manicured Gardens of Versailles, the Royal Opera of Versailles, the Versailles Cathedral, the Hall of Mirrors, etc.

Hours to spend: Half to full day
Hours: Hours vary, please enquire prior to your visit

5. Notre-Dame

Akin to the Eiffel Tower, to many, the Cathédrale de Notre-Dame is an icon of Paris. Gently settled along the scenic Seine River, this Gothic masterpiece is deemed to be one of the best Gothic cathedrals in the world. There’s plenty to see, but the architecture both inside and outside is amazing – not only is it intricate, but also detailed to perfection. The stone façades, stained-glass windows and sky-high gold-plated ceilings are begging to be photographed. The cityscape views from climbing the 387 steps to the top of the church are stunning. Although it’s not the largest or oldest church, it has a few peers when it comes to its architectural consonance and beauty.

Time to spend: 2 hours
Hours: Mon-Fri – 7:45 am to 6:45 pm, Sat-Sun – 7:45 am to 7:15 pm; Tower hours vary according to season

6. Cabaret show at Moulin Rouge

The birthplace of a dance form called ‘can-can’; this is a must-visit in Paris. The Moulin Rouge is one of the most famous cabaret shows. The dazzling lights, the melodious music and the quirky décor will leave you mesmerised. Additionally, the house speaks volumes about the social stories of France and its rich culture. Watching a show here is absolutely enthralling.

Hours to spend: 1-2 hours
Hours: Book tickets according to your convenience

7. Arc de Triomphe

A notable monument in Paris, the Arc de Triomphe pays a tribute to those who took part in the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars and battled and died for France. On the surface of the monument, all the names of French victories and generals have been inscribed. Underneath the arc, there is a vault which encloses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from World War I.

Hours to spend: 1 hour
Hours: Everyday – 10 am to 11 pm

8. Palais Garnier

Constructed from 1861 to 1875, what makes the Palais Garnier stand out even today is its architecture and opulence. More notably, it’s the site for ‘The Phantom of the Opera’, Gaston Leroux’s 1910 tale. You do have walking tours around the library and museum, however, today it’s more typically used for ballet performances. It can seat around 2000 people!

Hours to spend: 1-2 hours
Hours: Everyday – 10 am to 5 pm; 10 am to 1 pm on matinee performance days

Whether you frequently visit or it’s your first time, there is a timeless familiarity constantly looming in the air. The instantly recognisable architectural icons, the exceptional cuisine, stylish boutiques and the priceless artistic treasures all gracefully come together and alluringly make up Paris.

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