Explore Paris: 10 Must-Do Activities for First-Time Visitors
Paris, the City of Light, offers an incredible array of experiences. Whether it's your first time or your tenth, Paris never ceases to amaze. In this guide, we're sharing the top 10 must-do experiences in Paris, curated from our recent trip.
1. Dinner Cruise on the Seine River
One of the most romantic experiences in Paris is a dinner cruise along the Seine River. This 3-hour journey takes you past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and a lesser-known gem—a miniature Statue of Liberty, a gift from the U.S. to France.
The cruise includes a gourmet three-course meal with welcome drinks, wine, and live music, all in a glass-walled boat that provides breathtaking views. We recommend setting sail at sunset to witness the city transition from day to night. The Eiffel Tower sparkling as your cruise comes to an end is an unforgettable finale.
2. Visit the Palace of Versailles
A short 40-minute ride from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a masterpiece of opulence and history. Spread over 2,000 acres, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts more than 2,000 rooms. The Hall of Mirrors, with its 357 mirrors reflecting the grandeur of France, and the stunning gardens are two highlights.
Be sure to arrive early, as Versailles attracts large crowds. You’ll also want to make time to explore the gardens—rent a bike or rowboat to fully appreciate the vast beauty of this estate. The story of Louis XIV, who turned a simple hunting lodge into this grand palace, adds depth to the visit.
3. The Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower. Whether you admire it from below or take the elevator to the top for 360° views, the Eiffel Tower never disappoints. Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair, this 1,000-foot monument has become the most iconic symbol of France.
For the best experience, we recommend visiting in the evening, arriving an hour before sunset. This way, you can see the tower during the day, watch the sunset, and then witness the hourly sparkle show.
4. Baking Baguettes in Paris
Is there anything more quintessentially French than a fresh baguette? We had the privilege of baking baguettes with one of Paris’ top bakers, Mamoud, winner of the Best Baguette in Paris award. His expertise and passion for the craft were awe-inspiring, and the experience gave us a new appreciation for the humble baguette. If you're interested, there are numerous baking classes available where you can learn to make baguettes and other French pastries.
5. Explore the Louvre
The Louvre is the largest and most visited museum in the world, home to over 38,000 pieces of art. While the Mona Lisa is a must-see, don't overlook other masterpieces such as the Winged Victory of Samothrace and the Coronation of Napoleon.
With so much to explore, we recommend dedicating at least a half-day to your visit. To avoid long lines, arrive early or consider booking a skip-the-line ticket.
6. Discover Montmartre
Montmartre is a neighborhood steeped in history and charm. Once home to artists like Picasso and Van Gogh, Montmartre is now a bustling area with cobblestone streets and picturesque views. Be sure to visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views of the city, and take a walk down Rue de l’Abreuvoir, one of the prettiest streets in Paris.
While Montmartre has become more touristy, you can still capture its essence by visiting early in the morning or during the off-season.
7. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Though currently under restoration due to the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame Cathedral remains one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks. Even from the outside, its Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows are breathtaking. Once reopened in 2024, the inside is expected to be even more magnificent.
The area surrounding Notre-Dame is lively, with street performers often putting on shows, making it a great place to spend a few hours.
8. Climb the Arc de Triomphe
At the top of the Champs-Élysées sits the Arc de Triomphe, a monument built by Napoleon to celebrate his military victories. From the roof, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Paris, including a perfect view of the Eiffel Tower. Climb the 284 steps for sunset, and you'll be rewarded with one of the most stunning views in the city.
9. Stroll Down Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is often called the most beautiful avenue in the world. Lined with shops, cafes, and theaters, it’s a shopper’s paradise. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, be sure to stop by Ladurée for their world-famous macarons. The cafe offers an elegant atmosphere and a variety of flavors to choose from—our favorites were pistachio and caramel.
10. Visit the Catacombs
For those seeking a unique and eerie experience, the Catacombs of Paris offer a fascinating look into the city’s history. Located 65 feet below the streets, the Catacombs house the remains of over six million people. Walking through the neatly stacked bones is surreal, and while it's not for the faint-hearted, it is a truly unforgettable experience.
Bonus: Dining at Chez Dumonet
No visit to Paris is complete without indulging in some traditional French cuisine. For a truly exceptional meal, we recommend Chez Dumonet, known for its beef bourguignon. This dish, which has roots dating back to the Middle Ages, is slow-cooked in red wine and served with onions, mushrooms, and bacon. It's the ultimate comfort food and a must-try for anyone visiting Paris.
Whether it's your first time in Paris or you're returning for another adventure, these experiences will make your trip unforgettable. From iconic landmarks to unique local experiences, the City of Light is ready to enchant you.
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