Top 10 Paris Tourist Attractions

 

The city of love and romance, the axis of culture and fashion, the hub of lively streets and delicious food. Yes, it is undoubtedly Paris. Being one of the greatest European capitals, it is always bustling with events and things to do, not to mention the abundance of monuments to explore. From iconic French landmarks to beautiful sites for strolling around and shopping opportunities, here are some of the locations you can't miss the chance to visit while going Paris sightseeing.

1. The Eiffel Tower, Paris
Eiffel Tower, Paris

One of the most recognizable landmarks in the world and the symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is something you couldn't miss even if you wanted to. Attracting thousands of visitors each year, the sky-crossing monument is without a doubt an unforgettable part of any Paris tour! Dating back to 1889, it took over two years to build and was intended to only exist for two decades. The majestic tower reaches the height of 324 meters (1062 ft) and offers one-of-a-kind views from several viewing platforms located on different levels of the construction.

2. The Arc de Triomphe, Paris
Arc de Triomphe, Paris

Arc de Triomphe is undoubtedly one of the main attractions in Paris and a must-see while on any tour of the city. Situated at Place Charles de Gaulle, the imposing landmark dates back to the early 19th century and dominates the western end of the magnificent Champs-Elysees. Arc de Triomphe honors those who have laid their lives fighting for France and features inscriptions of their names on its walls. The monument also boasts a terrace, providing picturesque views over the Champs-Elysees and the city.

3. The Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris

The renowned Notre Dame Cathedral is a landmark in the heart of the city you must visit during your Paris tour. Built in the 12th century, it is a true jewel of medieval Gothic architecture, featuring flying buttresses, large windows, and beautiful rosettes. Another iconic feature of the church was the sky-crossing spire reaching the height of 69 meters (226 ft), however, it collapsed during the tragic Notre Dame Cathedral fire in April 2019 and is currently under reconstruction.

4. The Louvre Museum, Paris
Louvre Museum, Paris

Make sure to visit the largest art museum in the world, the Louvre, once in Paris. Situated in a marvelous Baroque palace, it houses an exceptional collection of paintings, antiques, sculptures, and other artifacts, including crown jewels of the French royalty. Visited by thousands of people each year, it displays some of the most iconic pieces of artwork in history, such as the sculptures of Venus de Milo and Winged Victory, as well as the renowned "Mona Lisa" by Leonardo da Vinci. The lavish interior of the museum itself is also worth admiring.

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5. The Sacre-Coeur Basilica, Paris
Sacre-Coeur Basilica, Paris

The Sacre-Coeur Basilica has to appear on your Paris itinerary for two reasons, it is not only one of the most magnificent pieces of architectural heritage in the city but also the viewpoint overlooking the entire city of Paris. As a matter of fact, situated on the hill of Montmartre, it is the second-highest point in the beautiful city! The Basilica itself dates back to the 20th century and features the Romano-Byzantine architectural style. As impressive on the outside, as it is on the inside, the white-washed Sacré-Coeur Basilica is now among the most iconic landmarks of France.

6. The Tuileries Garden, Paris
Tuileries Garden, Paris

Strolling around the Tuileries Garden is among the favorite past-time activities for visitors and locals likewise, making it one of the most popular places to visit in Paris. The site was created in the 17th century after a renowned landscaper Andre Le Notre was chosen to redesign the Italian garden by the Tuileries Palace. The picture-perfect park maintains its original shape to this day and features French-style gardens, ponds, statues, and even museums, including the Jeu de Paume National Gallery and the Orangerie Museum.

7. The Galeries Lafayette, Paris
Galeries Lafayette, Paris

Dating back to the 19th century, the Galeries Lafayette is undoubtedly a department store like no other in the world. It all started when two cousins established a small store on Lafayette Street in 1893 which became a success due to its location amid numerous points of interest in the city. The tiny establishment grew bigger rapidly and became a lavish commercial center, nowadays boasting numerous renowned names and providing a unique shopping experience.

8. The Champs-Elysees, Paris
Champs-Elysees, Paris

Don't miss the chance to wander around the lively Champs-Elysees while Paris sightseeing. The iconic avenue in the heart of the French capital is full of shopping and sightseeing opportunities, as well as is the perfect location to enjoy the ever-bustling atmosphere of the city. In addition to that, it is also the cultural hub, featuring theatres, cinemas, and galleries to discover. Stretching for almost 2 kilometers (1.24 mi), the boulevard connects the Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe, making it a popular route for every Paris visitor.

9. The Montmartre, Paris
Montmartre, Paris

The charming quarter of Montmartre is the gem of the 18th arrondissement in Paris and undoubtedly the beating heart of the artistic side of the city. Lined with cobbled narrow streets, it is full of lovely cafes, souvenir shops, authentic buildings, and street artists on every corner. Painters, musicians, and even magicians come to draw inspiration from the picturesque surroundings and the ever-present bohemian atmosphere. While in Montmartre, admire the authentic houses and make sure to visit the iconic Moulin Rouge and the Sacre-Coeur Basilica as well.

10. The Pont Alexandre III, Paris
Pont Alexandre III, Paris

Considered to be the most beautiful bridge in Paris, Pont Alexandre III is an iconic piece of heritage of the Art Nouveau architectural style, featuring intricate ornamentation, elegant lamp posts, and gilded statues. Boasting four 17-meter-high (56 ft) columns on the corners, the bridge connects the scenic Champs-Elysees on the right bank of the River Seine with Les Invalides on the left one. Dating back to 1900, the lavishly decorated bridge is a popular stop on any Paris tour, attracting a growing number of visitors each year.