Top 25 Things to Do in Paris: Ultimate Guide to the City of Lights
Known as the “City of Love”, Paris is a popular tourist destination for all, and especially for couples. The city itself sparks the feeling of romance and there are various activities a couple can do that will enhance their travelling experience. So if you’ve got Paris on your travel plans, here are 25 things to do in Paris that will make your relationship close and intimate.
1. The Eiffel Tower
The magic of Eiffel Tower will engulf you as it will take your breath away. Get right to the very top to view the entire city of Paris. Enhance the experience with a gourmet meal and champagne at one of the rooftop restaurants and be transported to the ages past when romance was much more alive than it is today.
2. Musee d’Orsay
The Musee d’Orsay is an art nouveau building which houses the art collection of France. Stroll through the gallery and get a glimpse of world famous masterpieces. The museum elicits a feeling of nostalgia of bygone days as you take yourself back in time to the days when art (and love) was at its peak in this glorious city.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
This Gothic Catholic cathedral is an evergreen beauty built in the 13th century. The gargoyles, church bells, the giant bell, the belfry, stained glass and art pieces inside the cathedral will be a feast for your eyes. The quiet reverential atmosphere within the cathedral is in stark contrast to the outside, and you feel more spiritual from the moment you enter its hallowed walls and walk beneath its awe-inspiring arches.
4. Luxembourg Gardens
The 25 acre Luxembourg Gardens is a sight to behold and is a must-visit spot on your trip to Paris. Filled with beautiful flower beds, a Medici fountain dated from 1620 and promenades lined with trees, the park is also divided into English and French gardens with a large pond dividing the 2 areas. Take a stroll through tree-lined paths or simply lounge on one of the loveseats and spend some quiet time with nature and your loved one.
5. Musee du Louvre
The world-famous Louvre is a spot that you shouldn’t miss out on your visit to Paris. This was once a fortress in the 11th century and then a royal palace in the 16th century. The Louvre is filled with all types of art pieces that can enrich your eyes and soul. Take a guided tour of especially the Masterpieces to enjoy the rich gallery.
6. River Seine
The river Seine has around 37 bridges across it with the Pont Alexandre III being the most iconic with gilt bronze statues of winged horses topping its high pylons. Enjoy a river cruise along Seine to enjoy its serenity, as well an unparalleled view of the city as you traverse along it.
7. Arc de Triomphe
Located on the right bank of River Seine, Arc de Triomphe is an iconic monument designed in a Roman style to honor all those who fought and died for France during wars. Take a picture alongside the monument to capture the feeling of bygone days that bring into perspective the absolute insignificance of mankind.
8. Le Marais
Le Marais was once an aristocratic and historic district of Paris. It is now filled with magnificent and spectacular buildings, restaurants, clubs, shops and bars which make it a popular tourist spot in Paris. Add Le Marais to your travel itinerary and spend an entire day checking out the shops where you can get good bargains and restaurants where you can get to enjoy some of the finest of Parisian cuisine and wine your palate will ever taste.
9. Ile de la Cite
Ile de la Cite is a natural island located on River Seine and is considered the heart of Paris. You will get to see many Roman ruins and magnificent buildings on the island. So if the city’s ancient history appeals to you, this is a place you definitely must visit.
10. Saint-Germain-des-Pres
Saint-Germain-des-Pres was once a small village centered on a church and now is home to many famous cafes. Normally associated with musicians, philosophers, writers, and intellectuals, this is a perfect spot to visit if you love anything intellectual or artistic.
11. Musee Marmottan Monet
If you love art, the Musee Marmottan Monet should be on your list of places to visit. This art museum contains an exquisite collection of all the works of Monet as well as other impressionistic painters such as Degas, Monet and Gauguin.
12. Musee de l’Orangerie
The Musee de l’Orangerie is another place to visit to see the world famous Nympheas or Water Lilies which is a set of 8 murals painted by Monet. Lose yourself in the midst of some of the greatest arts of work as you absorb the essence of what Paris is all about.
13. Musee Rodin
The Musee Rodin is a museum dedicated to the work of famous sculptor Auguste Rodin. It houses more than 6000 sculptures, 8000 drawings and 7000 art pieces and is a must-visit spot if you’re fascinated by art at its finest.
14. Musee Jacquemart
Musee Jacquemart was formerly a mansion that was built during the 18th century. Step inside to enjoy the architecture, paintings, sculptures and decorative art at this museum.
15. Place des Vosges
Originally known as the Place Royale, Place des Vosges is the most beautiful and oldest city square in Paris. Walk through the central garden and enjoy the red brick facades and historic houses that take you back in time.
16. Montmartre
Montmartre is a hill district that houses the famous Basilica of Sacre Coeur. Climb to the very top of the hill to enjoy spectacular views of the city.
17. Jardin des Tuileries
This public garden dates back to 15th century and is now an ideal place to simply walk and relax. Enjoy the calmness of nature, the ponds, sculptures and labyrinths as you relax.
18. Pictours Paris
If you want breathtaking photos of your trip together to preserve beautiful memories of Paris, don’t forget Pictours Paris. You can even enjoy a photography tour that lasts for around 2 hours.
19. Petit Palais
Art lovers will enjoy Petit Palais as you can see numerous world famous exhibits such as the Tuck Collection of 18th-century furniture or the Dutuit Collection of Medieval and Renaissance art.
20. Set in Paris Movie Tours
If you’re a movie fan, you’ll love the Paris Movie tour that gets you to some of the most famous movie sets. You also get to visit places where your favorite movie stars stayed, dined or shopped.
21. Sight Seeker’s Delight Unique Walking Tours
Go on a walking tour to visit the most important places in Paris and learn much about its fascinating history. These tours last for a few hours, so make sure you wear appropriate footwear so that you will really enjoy your tour.
22. Wine Tasting In Paris
A trip to Paris is wasted without understanding and tasting the wine culture of France. You can enjoy a 2 and half hour wine tour to appreciate the history and making of world famous wines. Savor some of the smoothest wines and learn about the country’s history in making itself famous with wine processing.
23. Cook’n With Class
There is a wide range of cooking classes that you can opt for in Paris, which covers everything from making croissants and baguettes to baking cakes or macaroons. You can also learn about the various types of cheese and how to prepare them. These classes are perfect for beginners, or even if you’d like to try your hand at gourmet dishes once you get back home.
24. Calife Dinner & Cruise
This dinner cruise will show you the city on the deck of a luxurious steam boat, along with a scrumptious meal. Float under the famous bridges along Seine and admire the breathtaking buildings as you dine on exotic and traditional French dishes that will leave you more than satiated with the epitome of Parisian cuisine.
25. The Temple Of Love
If you’re a die-hard romantic, you should never plan a visit to Paris without visiting Temple de l’Amour or the Temple of Love. This little white marble temple stands on a small island formed between two rivers and draws countless couples to it each year who visit it to propose to each other and to renew their wedding vows. It is strongly believed that sharing a kiss at the Temple of Love strengthens relationships. The boat ride to the temple sets you in the mood for romance especially when the rays of sun catch the marble of the temple and makes it shimmer gorgeously in a quiet crook surrounded by calm waters.
