Paris

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Paris

Few cities match the iconic status that Paris boasts in the imagination of travellers. In fashion, gastronomy, and the arts, she is queen. As you visit the different quartiers of the City of Light, her moods shift from gritty to sophisticated, from Haute Couture to punk. There is always something new to discover in Paris beyond the legendary sights and museums we all know so well. This fabled city has a way of getting under your skin and feeling instantly familiar to all who wander her hypnotic streets and linger at her inviting cafés.

The City

Writers, travellers, artists, photographers, and filmmakers have tried to capture the magic of the French capital for hundreds of years. Time and time again, they have failed. It may be possible to understand and admire the magnificence of its architectural splendours, the appeal of its long tree-lined boulevards, and the draw of its vast, green parks, but that unique feeling of strolling through this open-air museum on a clear night cannot be reproduced by any medium. Paris is a city that must be experienced first-hand. Instantly recognisable for its iconic architecture, the City of Light is a vibrant metropolis in constant change. Though perennial monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame Cathedral are a must, as are world-renowned museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, there are wonders to be found on every corner. From the trendy bars, boutiques, and galleries of Marais to the artsy and bohemian feel of Montmartre to the grandiose elegance along the Seine – there is plenty for all tastes, a full range extending from earthy grit to over-the-top sophistication, but always with an emphatic and inimitable Parisian flavour. A pioneer in design of all kinds, Paris is consistently at the forefront of innovation in everything from the arts and culture to fashion and gastronomy. Be it for shopping, dining, or sightseeing, it is hard to find a better place than this, the world’s most visited city.

Do & See Dining Cafés Bars & Nightlife Shopping Tourist Information

Do & See

There is never enough time to take in everything that Paris has to offer. Visiting the sights and museums is immersive, awe-inspiring, and could easily keep you occupied for months. But visitors are best rewarded by simply venturing out into the city. One thing is for sure, you will never run out of things to see, do, and experience in Paris. To help you save time and money, our travel experts have listed below the best attractions in Paris as well as things you should not miss while visiting the French capital.

Eiffel Tower

Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair to commemorate the centennial of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower is now one of the world's most recognisable monuments as well as one of the most visited ones, attracting nearly seven million visitors every year. It towers over the city at 324 metres (1,063 feet) …

Louvre Museum

The Musée du Louvre, among the world's largest museums, houses a vast collection of masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Caravaggio. Its iconic entrance is adorned by the 21-metre-high glass Pyramide du Louvre. With 35,000 paintings, sculptures, and artefacts spanning from Assyrian to Islamic art, as …

Arc de Triomphe

Commissioned by emperor Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 on account of the French victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, the Arc de Triomphe took 30 years to be erected and was then inaugurated by the French king Louis-Philippe in 1836, 15 years after Napoleon's death. Standing tall at 50 metres (164 feet), it is one …

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris

With its 10 million yearly visitors, Notre-Dame was the most visited site in Paris until a devastating fire ravaged a significant part of the cathedral in April 2019. The structure of the building itself was preserved, as well as most works of art that used to be contained inside. The place has always been the …

Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most charming and bohemian neighbourhoods in Paris, with the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica and its beacon atop the 130-metre Montmartre hill, being the highest point in Paris. Montmartre is famous for the cafés and studios of many great artists, such as Dalí, Monet, and Picasso. It is also easily recognisable …

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Perched atop Montmartre hill, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, or simply Sacré-Cœur, is a Roman Catholic church and minor basilica with a majestic view of Paris. Inaugurated in 1914, it is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and boasts over 500 statues. Its iconic status makes it a regular sight …

Moulin Rouge

A trip to Paris is not complete without a visit to the legendary Moulin Rouge. Since 1889, this iconic Parisian landmark has held the title of the most famous cabaret in the world, thanks to its French can-can and the larger-than-life shows featuring expertly choreographed dancing, elaborate sets, and glamourous costumes. Sip on French …

Seine River Cruise

Boat cruises on the Seine embark at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and take you through the heart of Paris where you can admire the prestigious monuments and landmarks of the city and the stunning architecture from bridge to bridge and bank to bank. To learn history along the way, plug in your audio …

Palace of Versailles

The town of Versailles is a wealthy Parisian suburb and municipality, located 20 kilometres outside the city. In the 11th century, Versailles was merely a country village enveloping a castle and the church of Saint-Julien. Today, it is mostly known for the lavish Château de Versailles, which served as home to King Louis XIV …

Musée d’Orsay

Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d'Orsay holds a mesmerising collection of mainly French paintings, sculptures, and photography, including the world's largest collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, with works from artists such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, Renoir, and …

Catacombs of Paris

Installed in the tunnels of former quarries, in the heart of Paris, the Catacombs are at once a fascinating and eerie attraction. Walk down the many steps to experience this spooky underground cemetery. Here you will find the osseous remains of more than 6 million people, moved to this location from an old …

Disneyland Paris

If you can be drawn away from the magical allure of the city, venture to a different type of magic at Disneyland Paris. The resort consists of two parks, Disneyland Park, which consists mainly of the usual rides, restaurants, cafés, and tons and tons of shops, and Walt Disney Studios, which has cinemas and …

Panthéon

Originally built as a church to house the reliquary of Saint Genevieve, this neoclassical building in the Latin Quarter, modelled after the Pantheon in Rome, is the final resting place of numerous writers, philosophers, poets and scientists, such as Rousseau, Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, and Marie …

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is an expansive 84,000m² square located at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées. It holds historical importance for several reasons: the liberation struggle during World War II brought many battles to Place de la Concorde; during the French Revolution, over a thousand people were beheaded here, many of them famous: …

Centre Pompidou

The Centre Georges Pompidou is a vast postmodern and high-tech architectural space that hosts the Musée National d'Art Moderne (the largest modern art museum in Europe) along with an expansive public library, and a centre for music and acoustic research. Its construction was controversial, as it was necessary to demolish the emblematic market that …

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise is the largest cemetery in Paris and is reputed to be the most visited in the world. It is a huge and peaceful park and the final resting place of many Frenchmen and foreigners who have enriched French life over the past 200 years: Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, Camille Pissarro, Marcel Proust, …

Champs-Élysées

This iconic promenade is nearly two kilometres long and goes all the way from Place de la Concorde to Place Charles de Gaulle, bookended by the Arc de Triomphe and the Musée du Louvre. It is a lovely walk on any day of the year, and it is the place to be during times of …

Pont Neuf

Pont Neuf (New Bridge) is, ironically, the oldest bridge over the river Seine in Paris. Its construction dates back to the 16th century, and the iconic bridge stands today at 278 metres (912 feet) long and 28 metres (92 feet) wide, connecting the Île de la Cité with either side of the …

Montparnasse Tower

Montparnasse Tower, an iconic skyscraper in the Parisian skyline, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the City of Light. Standing at 210 metres (689 feet), it provides a unique perspective, as it is the only skyscraper within the city centre. The observation deck on the 56th floor provides uninterrupted vistas of famous landmarks, including the …

Le Marais

Le Marais is a historic district situated on the Right Bank of the Seine, spread across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. It is a trendy district with beautiful architecture dating back to the 17th century. Now home to a vibrant LGBT community, Le Marais is famous for its many museums, art galleries, hip boutiques, …

La Seine

The river Seine flows 776 kilometres through northern France and offers a great opportunity to become familiar with many of Paris's impressive monuments while enjoying a boat ride through the heart of the city. A romantic cruise for couples or a fun-filled ride for the whole family, just sit back on the water and …

Luxembourg Garden

Nestled in the heart of Paris, the Jardin du Luxembourg, colloquially known as the Garden of the French Senate (Jardin du Sénat), is a haven of tranquillity and charm. Originally commissioned by Marie de' Medici, the garden exudes elegance with its meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and regal statues. A central palace, the Luxembourg …

Louis Vuitton Foundation

Apart from the undeniably breathtaking architecture, the Louis Vuitton Foundation contains a plethora of artwork by various artists from across the globe and hosts different events and workshops. A must-visit for everyone with even the slightest interest in creative expression, in the form of art, architecture, or …

Cheese and Wine Workshops

Immerse yourself in the quintessential French art of making cheese at Paroles de Fromagers. Join a workshop that not only guides you through the art of making cheese but also offers an exquisite cheese and wine tasting session. Learn the craft of cheese-making firsthand and discover the perfect wine pairings for each variety — …

Parc Montsouris

Parc Montsouris is one of four large public parks built by Emperor Napoleon III at the cardinal points around the city. The large lake, the cascade, and the extensive lawns make it a favourite among locals in any …

Dining

Paris's cuisine surprises as much for its variety and range as it does for its quality and exquisite presentation. From small family-run bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants run by internationally famous chefs, dining here is more art than science. Sweets, pastries, cheese, and fresh market produce are also an essential part of the Parisian gastronomic experience. Top it off with a treat from a speciality chocolaterie and a fine local vintage in the evening to complete the tour of the best delicacies Paris has to offer.

Hôtel du Nord

Hôtel du Nord is an upscale bistro, made famous in a 1930s movie by Marcel Carné, offering a varied menu, ranging from traditional French cuisine to original dishes to be enjoyed in a lovely location by the canal St …

L'Avant Comptoir de la Terre

Since its audacious opening in 2009, Chef Yves Camdeborde's standing-room-only French pintxo bar, L'Avant Comptoir de la Terre, has garnered accolades for its mouth-watering dishes and natural wines. The subsequent additions of sibling wine bars, L’Avant Comptoir de la Mer and L'Avant Comptoir du Marché, have only heightened its popularity. Known for its bustling atmosphere, …

Le Voltaire

Le Voltaire is, perhaps, amongst the best places in the 7th arrondissement to come for a quintessentially Parisian brasserie experience. Classic French cuisine with dishes polished to perfection, woven bent-wood chairs outside, and a chic ambience with that elusive je-ne-sais-quoi …

Le Potager de Charlotte

Created by two brothers passionate about health, the environment, and animal rights, Le Potager de Charlotte is an intimate spot offering plant-based, gourmet cuisine made from fresh, local, seasonal, and organic produce. From the presentation to the flavours, you can really see the time and thought they have put into each dish. Le Potager de …

Little Tokyo (Rue Sainte-Anne)

Although Japanese prevails in this aptly named Parisian neighbourhood tucked between the 1st and 2nd arrondissements, there is a plethora of Asian cuisines to choose from: restaurants serving everything from Korean bibimbap to bowls of steamy Vietnamese pho pepper the area, enjoying popularity among both locals and …

Fajitas

Classic Mexican dishes such as quesadillas, nachos, and, of course, fajitas dished up in a vibrant Mexican-style setting just a few minutes from the famous Pont …

Epicure

Hailed as one of the best restaurants in Paris, Epicure offers a unique dining experience inside Le Bristol Paris Hotel. Michelin-starred chef Eric Frechon concocts masterpiece French dishes using unusual combinations of exquisite ingredients, producing such meals as squid roasted with salted butter, puffed spelt, candied eggplant with couscous broth, and lobster coral …

Kong

The past few years have turned Kong into somewhat of a legend in Paris. Beneath its glass dome, you can savour some inventive Asian fusion cuisine, grab a drink, and later on, dance the night away, all the while enjoying one of the most romantic views over the river …

Terrasse de l'Alcazar

Alcazar is a contemporary brasserie located in St Germain-des-Près, where you can enjoy traditional English and French dishes prepared by skilled chefs in a chic atmosphere filled with lots of …

Pierre Gagnaire

Pierre Gagnaire is located near Champs-Élysées Avenue, inside Hôtel Balzac, and is one of the city's most solid and appealing restaurants, ranked among the world's top 50. Expect to pay up for the lunch and dinner menu and make sure you make a reservation well in …

Allard

There are still local neighbourhood restaurants serving excellent food all over Paris. One of them is Allard, in the 6th arrondissement, over on the left bank of the Seine. A traditional 1930s bistro offering elevated, traditional French dishes and wines in a cosy and inviting …

Le Balzar

Located in the lively Quartier Latin, close to la Sorbonne, Le Balzar is a classic Parisian brasserie, which has, since 1896, been serving traditional French dishes in a gorgeous Art Nouveau interior or at terrace tables. Many of the city's famous authors have been regulars …

L'As du Fallafel

When in the mood for some Middle Eastern cuisine, head to Rue des Rosiers, in the 4th arrondissement. On and around this street, you will find many establishments serving delicious Middle-Eastern and Yiddish/Eastern European specialities. Chez Hanna, King Falafel Palace, and Chez Marianne are just a few of them. L'As du Fallafel, in particular, …

Zo is a cosy restaurant that offers Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant has an exotic and welcoming décor and is very lively on the weekends. On the menu, you will find dishes ranging from sushi and pizza to steak and …

Roomies Etienne Marcel

Hamburgers might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about dining in Paris, but Roomies will make you rethink that. Here, you can customise your own burger with their homemade sauces and fresh ingredients. The friendly staff will gladly guide you through the process in good English. At just a …

La Maison de Verlaine

Once home to French poet Paul Verlaine, La Maison de Verlaine is a small and charming family-owned restaurant offering a menu of French classics like escargots, duck breast, tarte tatin, and crème brûlée to be enjoyed in an old-fashioned …

Rouge Bis

Situated in the bohemian Montmartre district, just a stone’s throw from the Moulin Rouge, Rouge Bis is a popular brasserie offering a delightful glimpse into traditional French cuisine. The menu boasts classic French onion soup, succulent duck confit, rich beef bourguignon, ratatouille, and the famous escargots. The bustling atmosphere and top-notch service enhance the …

Boutique yam'Tcha

A favourite among local foodies, yam'Tcha's head Chef Adeline Grattard creates dishes that mix French tradition with an Asian flair, resulting in combinations like scallops with peppers and black soya. In keeping with the mixed feeling of the place, for refreshments, you can choose from a variety of Asian teas or French …

Founti Agadir

Paris has many North African restaurants and one of the best is the Moroccan Founti Agadir. Located on the left bank, it has a fine selection of good-value couscous, tajines, and pastilla …

Annapurna

This Indian restaurant has been serving the best of North Indian gastronomy ever since 1967. The décor is authentic and stylish. On the menu, you will find tasty dishes like lamb curry, onion bhajis, and chicken tikka, as well as a few vegetarian and vegan …

Cafés

Fresh baguettes and croissants with a strong espresso in the morning, aromatic teas or pastis in the afternoon, and a local vintage with friends in the evening, there's never a wrong time to visit a café in Paris. They are a quintessential part of the Parisian experience and the perfect vantage point from which to engage in a lazy afternoon of people-watching. The wide variety of drinks and the occasional live music round off the café experience to perfection.

Café de Flore

This famous literary café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés boasts some very illustrious names among its former clientele, including Simone de Beauvoir, Albert Camus, and Jean-Paul Sartre. Getting a table among all the tourists might be a challenge, but with the Café de Flore's history and status in popular culture, it definitely deserves a …

Ladurée

La Maison Ladurée is an iconic, upscale bakery and tea room specialising in French macarons. At this location in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, you can indulge in scrumptious French pastries and true culinary masterpieces fit for royals. Be sure to take some of these decadent desserts back home as they do make a nice …

KB CaféShop

A speciality coffee pioneer in Paris, KB offers its own roasted coffee from worldwide sources, which is served on a pavement terrace. Everything you eat here is freshly handmade by the team in-house. The helpful staff serves baguettes, sandwiches and desserts like freshly made muffins, cakes and tartes. This is also a great place …

Le Bistrot du Peintre

Le Bistrot du Peintre, an authentic Art Nouveau bistro in the Bastille district, has been serving traditional French dishes for over a century. Established in 1902, the bistro underwent a thorough renovation in 2012 while preserving its Art Nouveau charm, earning it recognition as a historic monument. It features a changing menu with daily …

Le Select

Another famous literary café (and former hangout of Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, and Henry Miller), Le Select remains true to the spirit it has had since 1925, despite its popularity among tourists and the high prices to match. It is still a favourite among locals and always displays an authentic Parisian …

Charbon Café

Quiet and laid-back by day and a trendy centre for nightlife after dark, Rue Oberkampf hosts several cafés that like Charbon Café transform into chic bars at night. Originally a dance hall built around 1900, this spacious café attracts a hip urban …

Café de la Paix

For a taste of sophistication, check out the opulent Café de la Paix, located next to and designed by the same architect as the Opera Garnier. As part of Le Grand Hotel, you can enjoy the luxurious interiors or relax on the terrace to indulge in some people-watching while savouring some French …

Strada Café

Located near the Notre Dame Cathedral, Strada Café is a popular spot known for its breakfast and specialty coffee. The café provides a delightful setting for a leisurely stop during a stroll through the Latin Quarter. Beyond fantastic coffee, the café serves healthy lunch options, fresh juices, and baked …

Breizh Café

One of the finest creperies in the French capital is, actually, a Japanese import: Breizh Café was a big hit in the land of the rising sun long before it came to the Marais. The chain's very successful outpost serves scrumptious crêpes and galettes made with the finest organic ingredients from Brittany. Michelin-starred Raphaël-Fumio …

Bars & Nightlife

Paris transforms into a captivating playground after dark, offering a nightlife that mirrors its vibrant cultural tapestry. From chic rooftop bars with panoramic views of the glittering Eiffel Tower to hidden speakeasies tucked away in the trendy Marais district, the options are as diverse as the city itself. Dive into the rhythmic pulse of renowned clubs like Rex Club, pulsating with electronic beats, or opt for the intimate charm of jazz bars along the Seine. For a unique dose of vibrant local entertainment, you can't beat Paris's famous cabaret venues.

Le 10 Bar

Le 10 Bar is a quaint little bar, near the Palais du Luxembourg, popular for its homemade sangria. Take a seat at one of its street-facing tables or grab a chair in its rustic and characterful interior, decorated with old …

Supersonic

Supersonic is an intimate concert hall and bar, situated in a former New York loft-like factory hosting free rock concerts by up-and-coming …

Aux Folies

Aux Folies is a traditional Paris bar & café that has fully embraced the city's multi-cultural present. Once the home of Edith Piaf and Maurice Chevalier, the district of Belleville now mixes Chinese and North African influences, reflecting the effect immigrant cultures have had on the city and its culture. Aux Folies is a …

Favela Chic

Favela Chic is an eclectic and lively Brazilian bar & restaurant offering a mix of French and Brazilian fare, plus cocktails, and lots of music until the early hours of the …

Rex Club

Rex Club holds a prominent status in Paris’s nightlife scene. Renowned for its iconic presence in the electronic music realm, Rex Club has been a consistent hub for dance music enthusiasts since its inception. With a rich history dating back to the '90s, this legendary venue has hosted internationally acclaimed DJs and continues to …

La Perle

La Perle is a favourite among 'bohemian chic' Parisians as well as international stylists, artists, models, and fashionistas. It is a perfect place to either start your evening or just have a conversation over a glass of wine and some pizza. Though it is often crowded, it has a homey and friendly …

Buddha-Bar

Nestled in the heart of the 8th arrondissement near Place de la Concorde, Buddha-Bar is a glitzy temple of style, renowned for its Asian-fusion cuisine and iconic ambience. The vast two-storey restaurant showcases dramatic cinema-style décor, adorned with rich mahogany furniture, Chinese and Japanese art, and a towering four-metre-tall Buddha statue. Palm trees and …

Nouveau Casino

Nouveau Casino, a renowned Parisian venue, is celebrated for its vibrant nightlife that extends into the early morning. This legendary establishment features a lively bar on the lower floor and a medium-sized dance hall upstairs. Its true distinction lies in being a prime location for small concerts, showcasing a penchant for underground …

Point Éphémère

Point Éphémère is a dynamic cultural centre that puts together a rich program of exhibitions, concerts, and performances in a large riverside space that also includes a bar and …

Le Truskel

Nestled between Bourse and Palais Garnier in Paris’s 2nd arrondissement, Le Truskel combines the friendly ambience of an English pub with the lively atmosphere of a micro club. The venue's early evening live concerts attract music enthusiasts, while sports fans gather to catch major matches. As the night progresses, Le Truskel transforms itself with …

Galway Irish Pub

In Paris, much like any other city, you'll find the quintessential Irish Pub. This one has all the offerings you usually expect from an Irish pub: a range of draft beers, sports screenings, live music, some tasty pub grub, and of course, great …

Shopping

Shopping in Paris is synonymous with famous designers and luxurious brands – the names Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Christian Dior immediately come to mind. But you will also find more affordable options to match your budget in the huge department stores or many popular neighbourhood markets.