Paris is one of those cities that never gets old. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always something new to discover. From iconic sights to hidden gems, here’s our ultimate guide to the best things to do in Paris – based on our own short-but-packed trips. Bonus: all super walkable and perfect for 2-3 days of exploring!
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Climb the Arc de Triomphe for a Unique Eiffel View
Everyone rushes to the Eiffel Tower, but for one of the best views of it, head up the Arc de Triomphe. It’s less crowded, cheaper, and you get that postcard-perfect shot with the Eiffel Tower in the background. Go just before sunset for amazing lighting.
Opening hours: Daily from 10am to 10:30pm
Entry: €16 or free with the Paris Museum Pass / free for EU residents under 26
Metro stop: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6)
Admire Notre-Dame and Walk Along the Seine
After years of restoration, Notre-Dame Cathedral has finally reopened as of late 2024, and it’s absolutely worth stepping inside. The stunning stained-glass windows, gothic architecture, and peaceful atmosphere make it one of the best things to do in Paris – especially if it’s your first time. Even if you’ve seen it before, the new renovations (including the rebuilt spire) are worth a revisit.
Pair your visit with a stroll along the Seine’s iconic green bookstalls (called “bouquinistes”) and grab a crêpe from a nearby stand – the atmosphere here is pure Paris.
Insider tip: Walk over to Île Saint-Louis, just behind the cathedral. It’s a quieter, charming little island with cobbled streets and some of the best ice cream in town at Berthillon.
Metro stop: Cité (Line 4) or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (RER B/C)
Explore Montmartre’s Artistic Corners
Montmartre isn’t just Sacré-Cœur. Wander through Rue de l’Abreuvoir, Place du Tertre, and even the tucked-away vineyard Clos Montmartre. This neighbourhood feels like a small village inside the city.
Tip: Wear comfy shoes – it’s hilly and full of cobblestones
Photo spot: Pink house “La Maison Rose” + Le Consulat café
Metro stop: Abbesses (Line 12 – it’s one of the deepest stations, take the elevator if needed)
Cruise the Seine – But at Night
A river cruise might sound touristy, but it’s actually one of the best things to do in Paris, especially after dark. The monuments are beautifully lit, and watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle from the water is unforgettable.
- Option 1: Without Dinner
Duration: Around 1 hour
Cost: Around €15–€18 (you can often find discounts online)
Tip: Book in advance, especially in spring and summer
- Option 2: With Dinner
If you’re looking to make it a truly special experience, opt for a dinner cruise along the Seine. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal while admiring the iconic landmarks of Paris illuminated at night. The ambiance is romantic and unforgettable, with views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and more as you cruise the river.
Duration: Around 2–2.5 hours
Cost: Starts at around €70–€90 per person (depending on the operator and menu)
Tip: It’s a bit more expensive but totally worth it if you want a memorable evening with great food and views.
Picnic Like a Local at Canal Saint-Martin
Skip the restaurants for one meal and have a picnic by Canal Saint-Martin. This spot is popular with locals and has a laid-back vibe, especially in the evening.
Best picnic shopping: Franprix for wine, local bakeries for fresh baguettes and cheese
Tip: Drinking in public is usually tolerated here in the evenings but keep it discreet
Metro stop: République or Jacques Bonsergent
Stroll Through Le Marais & Stop for Falafel
This district is full of charm, trendy shops, and great food. It’s also one of the only areas where shops are open on Sundays. L’As du Fallafel is a must – it’s busy for a reason.
Lunch tip: Go before 12:30 to avoid the long line
Metro stop: Saint-Paul (Line 1)
Visit the Louvre – But Not Just for the Mona Lisa
Sure, she’s famous, but the Louvre is huge. If you’re short on time, skip the crowds at the Mona Lisa and visit the Cour Marly or the Napoleon III Apartments.
Opening hours: Closed Tuesday. Open until 9pm on Wednesday and Friday, and until 6pm on the other days.
Entry: €22 or free for EU citizens under 26
Time-saving tip: Use the underground entrance through the Carousel du Louvre (Rue de Rivoli)
Discover the Hidden Passages of Paris
Galerie Vivienne, Passage Jouffroy, and Passage des Panoramas are beautiful 19th-century arcades with bookshops, cafés, and unique boutiques. Great on a rainy day and one of the most underrated best things to do in Paris.
Location tip: Near Grands Boulevards, easily combined with a visit to Palais Garnier
Snack tip: Try the madeleines at À la Mère de Famille nearby
Catch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle From Trocadéro
You can’t skip the Eiffel Tower, but for a great view, head to Trocadéro. It’s right across the river and the perfect spot to see the light show that happens every hour on the hour after sunset until 11:00 PM (midnight in summer). The sparkling lights last for about 5 minutes each time and are truly magical to see in person.
Best photo time: About 30 minutes after sunset
Metro stop: Trocadéro (Lines 6 & 9)
Safety tip: Watch your belongings – this area gets busy at night
Watch a Cabaret at the Moulin Rouge
Yes, it’s touristy – but there’s a reason the Moulin Rouge is famous worldwide. The feathers, the costumes, the cancan, the music – it’s a whole show. If you’re up for a bit of glam and spectacle, an evening here is a memorable Paris experience.
Tip: Book tickets early, especially on weekends. Dinner + show is available, but the show-only option is more budget-friendly.
Closest metro: Blanche (Line 2)
Quick Tips for a Smooth Paris Trip
- Getting Around:
Paris is incredibly walkable, so take advantage of that! Walking is the best way to soak in the sights and explore the city’s charming neighborhoods. For longer distances, use the metro – it’s fast and easy. The metro network is extensive, and you can reach almost any major attraction within 30 minutes. - Transport Tip:
You don’t need to buy paper tickets for the metro! You can simply tap your contactless bank card (Visa or Mastercard) at the metro gates to pay. It’s the easiest and most efficient way to travel around the city. Just make sure your bank card is enabled for international use. - Metro App:
To navigate the metro with ease, download the Bonjour RATP app. It provides real-time updates on train schedules, metro line statuses, and directions, which is super handy for getting around the city without any hassle. It’s also available in English! - Museum Pass:
If you plan to visit 2 or 3 museums in a short amount of time, the Paris Museum Pass is definitely worth it. It allows you to skip the lines and gives you free entry to over 50 attractions, including the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and more. You can purchase it for 2, 4, or 6 days. You’ll get your money’s worth if you’re visiting multiple sites in one day. - Water Fountains:
Stay hydrated while you explore – Wallace fountains are scattered throughout the city and offer free drinking water. They are easy to spot with their distinctive green design. Just fill up your bottle, and you’re good to go! - Photo Rules:
Paris is very photogenic, but keep in mind that tripods are often not allowed at tourist spots like the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower. If you want to take a picture with a tripod, try finding a quiet spot in the parks or gardens, where the rules are more relaxed. Selfie sticks are also not permitted at some attractions, so be sure to check the rules before setting up. - Tipping:
Tipping in Paris is not expected, but it’s always appreciated. If you’re happy with the service, rounding up the bill is common practice. For restaurant bills, leaving a small tip of around 5-10% is a nice gesture, but it’s not mandatory. - Public Restrooms:
Finding a clean public restroom can be tricky in Paris, but there’s a solution: Sanisette toilets. These self-cleaning public restrooms are located throughout the city and are free to use. Look out for the distinctive green kiosks; they are often found near metro stations and popular tourist areas. - Sunday Closures:
A lot of shops and smaller businesses in Paris close on Sundays. However, don’t worry – you can still find things to do! Le Marais, Champs-Élysées, and some large department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps remain open. It’s a great time to explore these areas, which are full of shops, cafés, and eateries. - Stay Alert:
Paris is generally safe, but like any big city, pickpocketing is a concern. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist spots like the Louvre, the metro, and around major landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Use a crossbody bag with a zipper, and be cautious when in busy areas.
Final thoughts
We love short trips packed with walking, food, and unique spots — and Paris is perfect for that. These are the best things to do in Paris that will let you feel the city instead of just checking off tourist boxes. Whether you’re here for a weekend or just passing through, we hope this guide helps you make the most of every hour.
If you’re looking for a step-by-step plan, check out our 3-day Paris itinerary – it’s designed for active travelers who want to see a lot without rushing. And of course, no Paris trip is complete without amazing food, so don’t miss our Best Foods to Try in Paris guide for all our favorite eats, from bakeries to traditional bistros.