Looking for some cool things to do in Paris? This epic compilation is for you! Whether you’re wondering what to do in Paris this weekend or planning the ultimate Paris vacation, here are our top picks for exploring the iconic city of love, cuisine, and architecture. 

One of the best things about Paris is the sheer number of things to see and do—and, of course, eat! Our most recent trip to Paris was our second time to the magical City of Lights. This time around, we did a ton of research before we arrived to discover the best off-the-beaten-path restaurants, shopping spots, and other hidden must sees in Paris. We also wanted to leave time to re-discover a handful of quintessential Paris attractions.

 

50 Cool Things to Do in Paris - Arc de Triomphe

The Louvre Museum is a Must See in Paris

 

We didn’t have time to check everything off our Paris sightseeing bucket list. With fifty things to do in Paris in just six days, we would have gone crazy if we tried! But while though we didn’t test everything firsthand, we wanted to ensure our hours of research went to good use. After all, who knows when we’ll be back to finish checking out the best places to visit in Paris. 

So here you have the fruits of our labor: 50 Cool Things to Do in Paris. We’ve organized our Paris sightseeing list into four categories: Iconic Attractions, Entertainment, Wining and Dining, and Shopping. Whether it’s your first or your fiftieth visit to Paris, you’re bound to discover a new, useful, or inspiring idea below!

 

 

Paris Attractions

 

Paris Sightseeing - The Eiffel Tower

 

1. The Eiffel Tower

Let’s start with the obvious. Love it or hate it, no trip to Paris is complete without a visit to this iconic Parisian landmark. It will cost you €15.00 and countless hours of your day to take the elevator to the top of The Eiffel Tower. Instead, consider purchasing a ‘skip the line’ ticket, or simply take a selfie at the base of the Eiffel Tower and continue on with your Paris sightseeing. 

 

2. Palais Garnier

Take a visit to this opulent opera house to view the grand staircase and auditorium adorned in marble and gold leaf. Be sure to look up at the ceiling and spectacular chandelier. Though the setting for Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera, you likely won’t find any masked men haunting the stage; today, the Palais Garnier is primarily used for the ballet.

 

3. Canal St. Martin

Escape the crowds with a visit to the quaint Canal St. Martin. Take a leisurely boat ride or enjoy the walkway. On a sunny day, you’ll have plenty of locals to keep you company.

 

4. Notre Dame

This historic cathedral dating back to 1163 is more than just the home of Quasimodo—it’s also considered one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture of all time. Marvel at the gargoyles and then climb the towers for a great view over the city. Update: Due to the tragic fire that destroyed portions of the Notre Dame Cathedral, the church is closed to visitors until further notice. 

 

5. Take a Seine River Cruise

Discover Paris from the Seine River on a bateau mouche, or open-air excursion boat. The tours operate during the day or at night and are an inexpensive way to familiarize yourself with the city and snap some great photos.

 

6. Climb the Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is a monument in honor of Napoleon Bonaparte and a symbol of Parisian victory. If you do any ‘climb to the top to see the view’ excursions, make it the trip to the Arc’s panoramic viewing terrace. From here, you can enjoy views of the Eiffel Tower as well as admire Paris’ broad boulevards and geometric urban plan.

 

7. Museo de Cluny

Many visitors to Paris often forget about the city’s Roman past. Visit the Museo de Cluny to see the Gallo-Roman baths, believed to date back to the 3rd century. A stop at this museum also makes a great excuse to get out and explore the Latin Quarter.

 

8. Champs-Élysées

This famous avenue leading up to the Arc de Triomphe is worth a stroll, especially if you go for a dusk visit. With its crowds of tourists and high-end retailers, it’s not the most charming part of Paris, but it’s still worth a walk and some people watching.

 

9. Sacré-Cœur Basilica

This Roman Catholic Church is perfectly perched on the summit of Montmartre, the highest point in the city. The sheer size of the Basilica is spectacular, as are the views of Paris from the top of the hill.

 

10. Centre Pompidou

Most Parisians seem to think the Pompidou is a monstrosity on the eyes; it only takes one glimpse of the art museum to understand why. Its exterior ducts and escalators resemble a plumbing system, and are in many ways a Paris attraction of their own right. 

 

11. Palace of Versailles

Wander the grounds around the royal chateau, and then take a tour of the court that was once the center of political power in France. It’s impossible to miss the luxurious Hall of Mirrors, where King Louis XIV not only entertained his guests but also intimidated them—the mirrors reflected every guest’s move hundreds of times across the hall. Notably, it was also in the Hall of Mirrors where the Treaty of Versailles was signed.

 

12. Sainte-Chapelle

Visit this chapel to see the intricate stained glass collections; watching the light play through the massive windows is a mesmerizing sight to behold. Though not as famous, many people consider Sainte-Chapelle to be more beautiful than Notre Dame.

 

13. The Louvre

Even if you’re not an ‘art person,’ don’t rush your visit through the Louvre. It’s one of the most important museums in the world, with over 1 million works of art. Do a bit of research or pay extra for an audio guide so you know what it is you’re looking at—you’ll appreciate the museum much more. We used our Paris Pass to skip all the lines, which was fantastic.

 

14. Hotel des Invalides

This complex of buildings was once a hospital and retirement home for war veterans. Today, most tourists visit to view the burial site of Napolean Bonaparte, though you’ll find plenty else to entertain if you’re a history or war buff.

 

15. The Paris Catacombs

For a slightly creepy addition to any romantic Paris vacation, take a visit to the Paris Catacombs. The catacombs are a 170-mile network of caves, tunnels, and quarries beneath the city, filled with the skulls and bones of nearly 6 million deceased. We say it’s a must on any trip to Paris!

 

Important Insider Tip:

Always travel with Travel Insurance. Unfortunately, on our trip to Paris, our expensive DSLR camera was stolen on the train from Paris to Reims. While we lost most of our photos from Champagne, we’re SO grateful our travel insurance helped us to cover most of the replacement costs. You never know what travel incidents could happen! We always use World Nomads as our travel insurance provider and highly recommend them.

 

Paris Entertainment

 

Cooking Class in Paris

 

16. See a Cabaret

There are multiple cabaret experiences to be had in Paris, most notably the Lido, the Crazy Horse, and the Moulin Rouge. We opted to see the latter as it is the most historically French (though nowadays you won’t see many Parisians there).

 

17. Catch a Film at Le Louxor Cinema

This historic cinema dates back to 1921; After a recent refurbishment, it re-opened to the public in late 2013. Le Louxor hosts a range of films, with new premiers, cinema workshops, children’s seances, concerts, and local cine-club.

 

18. How to Become a Parisian in One Hour

In this one-person English comedy show, learn how Parisians view the tourists who come to their city. The show has smashing reviews and is on the top of our list if we ever return to Paris.

 

19. Look for Free Events

Paris certainly isn’t one of the cheapest cities in the world. Luckily, there are always a variety of free events going on, especially during the summer months. Entertainment ranges from concerts to photo exhibits to festivals.

 

20. Cookin’ With Class

I learned how to make macarons, but if you’re not up for the labor (making these babies is intense), there are numerous other cooking classes. This unique French cooking experience was a highlight of our trip to Paris.

 

21. Get Lost

Choose one of Paris’ neighborhoods and just get lost. This is where you’ll stumble upon quintessential Paris. 

 

22. Revel in Hemingway’s Footsteps

If you’re a Hemmingway aficionado, consider using your Paris vacation to revisit some of his favorite spots, including where Hemmingway mingled with the greatest artists of his time and found inspiration for A Moveable Feast and The Sun Also Rises. A Guide to Hemingway’s Paris will uncover the cafes, restaurants, and even hotels and landmarks immortalized by the author.

 

23. Take a Food Tour

Enhance your knowledge of French food and wine with a personalized walking tour through one of Paris’ most romantic neighborhoods, Montmartre. This was one of our absolute favorite things we did in Paris (if not all of France). Everyone we’ve recommended the tour to has loved it as well. Read the full post here to learn more about this must-do in Paris.

 

24. Stroll Les Grands Boulevards

In Belle Époque Paris, the Grands Boulevards were the place to see and be seen. While they have lost a bit of their splendor with the advent of chain stores and fast-food chains, the Boulevards are where you’ll find the Palais Garnier (listed above) and some of the best shopping in Paris (listed below).

 

25. Meander Ile St.-Louis

Spend an afternoon exploring this natural island in the Seine; it’s easily accessible and connected to the rest of Paris by four bridges. Don’t miss a stop at the luxury ice cream shop, Berthillon, which many consider to be the best ice cream in all of Paris.

 

26. Embrace Your Inner Child at the Funfair Museum

This off-beat museum boasts a variety of amusement park memorabilia dating from 1850-1950, including rides, carousels, merry-go-rounds, swings, and more. Not your everyday Paris museum!

 

27. Go Clubbing at Showcase

Dance the night away at this popular nightclub under the Pont Alexandre III Bridge, once a former boat hangar. It’s not a cheap night out, but it’s also the kind of place you’ll only find in Paris. Update: Showcase has since closed since the writing of this post. Check the comments below for more recommendations on what to do in Paris.

 

Where To Eat in Paris

 

50 Cool Things to Do in Paris - Crepe

 

28. Take a Wine Tour

There are numerous private wine tours that operate out of Paris, taking guests to small villages with local wineries and vineyards. We always say you can never go wrong with a wine tour! This particular tour is a two-hour private wine and cheese tasting in a Parisian’s apartment and comes highly recommended. 

 

29. Wine Hunt at Caves Auge

This wine shop is allegedly the oldest in all of Paris. The charming “cave” is jam-packed with bottle after bottle of wine, so whether you know exactly what you want or are just browsing, you’re bound to find something to suit your palate.

 

30. Take a Day Trip to Champagne

I never realized just how close Champagne is to Paris (only 45 minutes on the TGV). In my opinion, few things are better than a day spent hopping around the renowned Champagne Houses. We opted to sample the bubbly at Veuve Clicquot, Pommery and Lanson. Our day trip to Champagne was another one of our favorite experiences during our Paris trip. Even if you’re not a huge champagne fan, the beauty and history of the city warrants a visit.

 

31. Purchase Goodies at a French Market

One of the best markets in Paris is the Bastille Market, also known as the Richard Lenoir Market, open Thursdays and Sundays. The market features excellent  fish, cheese, and meat vendors, as well as a variety of food stalls including Middle-Eastern, Spanish, French cuisine, and more. Alternatively, the President Wilson Market (open on Wednesdays and Saturdays) is a good option.

 

32. Splurge on Fine Dining

Some of the world’s best restaurants are in Paris. This article listing ten of the best authentic French bistros and restaurants in the city had us absolutely drooling, though we never got around to trying any of them for ourselves.

 

33. Eat Croissants

You are in Paris, after all. Pick any boulangerie you pass and try not to think about the major diet you’ll need to go on later.

 

34. Have a Picnic

Paris is known for its large number of elegant parks and gardens. Visit one of the markets listed to pick up fresh local produce, bread, cheese and, of course, wine. Not sure where to go on your Paris picnic? Try starting at the lovely Place de Vosges.

 

35. Attend a Supper Club

If you’re looking for an intimate dining experience, try one of Paris’ Supper Clubs. The most renowned is likely Jim Haynes’; he has run a Sunday dinner party for the past 30 years. The dinners attract around 60 people, making this a great place to mingle.

 

36. Dine at L’Ardoise

We ended our Paris trip with dinner at this small French restaurant on the recommendation of the concierge at the Hyatt. It’s not all that fancy, but what this authentic brasserie lacks in décor it makes up for with deliciousness. Reservations are strongly recommended.

 

37. Foodie Shopping at G Detou

If you know your way around a kitchen, take a visit to G. Detou to stock up on anything a cook or baker could ever need. It also makes the perfect place to pick up a few souvenirs for the foodie in your life.

 

38. Taste Test Macarons

The two most famous macaron shops are Laduree and Pierre Herme. Laduree is famed for selling the original macaron, and is named after the grandfather of French macaron inventor Desfontaines. Pierre Herme is known for his innovative flavors like chocolate foie gras and strawberry wasabi. Try them both to choose your favorite.

 

Shopping In Paris

 

Shopping in Paris

 

39. Vintage Shopping in the Marais

The Marais is one of my favorite areas of Paris, right after Montmartre. There are loads of magnificent, one-of-a-kind, vintage shops in the area, but you have to keep your eyes open for them. While you’re wandering, be sure to visit the République, Oberkampf and Hôtel de Ville

 

40. Rue de Rivoli

Rue de Rivoli is one of the longest streets in Paris. It starts near Saint Paul, runs along the Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre, and goes all the way to the Hotel de Ville. There are too many shops here to count, with everything from crappy souvenirs to bohemian boutiques to high-end designer shops.

 

41. Bercy Village

This restored warehouse village doesn’t have the best shopping in Paris, but it is a cute outdoor strip mall and off the beaten path location to do some window shopping.

 

42. Jewelry Shop at Place Vendome

We only passed the jewelry shops because we were staying at The Hyatt, steps away from Place Vendome. But if you happen to have the money and an itch to buy outrageously expensive jewelry, this is the spot for you. It would be the perfect addition to any romantic Paris itinerary. 

 

43. Hunt for Art

Most tourists (myself included) pick up an inexpensive piece of artwork along the Seine River or the Place du Tertre (Artist’s Square). Alternatively, visit any number of small art galleries in the city to purchase an authentic, original painting.

 

44. Get Lost in a Bookshop

With its plethora of bookshops and literary history, Paris is one of the best places in the world for a bookish escape. La Belle Hortense tops our list of favorite bookshops—the walls are lined with books and bottles, meaning you can find inspiration leafing through a novel while simultaneously sipping a glass of vino.

 

45. Galeries Lafayette

Whether you’re up for shopping or not, visit this upscale French department store to view the stained glass dome ceiling—the lavishness is so worth it.

 

46. Gourmet Food Shopping on Rue Rambuteau

We debated with putting this item in the ‘Wining and Dining’ section, but ultimately it ended up here, as there is plenty of other shopping on and around this famous street. However, the main reason to visit the market street of Rambuteau is for a visit to a few of its gourmet food shops. There are also a great variety of restaurants if you’re shopping on an empty stomach.

 

47. Hidden Shopping Passages

Paris boasts numerous secret passages across the city. Galerie Viviene is one of the most chic, with expensive boutique shops, elegant restaurants, well-preserved architecture and all around cool vibes.

 

48. The Palais-Royal

If you’re looking for cutting edge designer shops like Marc Jacobs, Pierre Hardy or Corto Moltedo, then visit the Palais-Royal. While window-shopping, enjoy the 17th century arcades, the Palais-Royal Gardens and learn about the history of the palace and grounds.

 

49. Saxe Breteuil Market

Visit this large-scale, open-air market on Thursdays and Saturdays for a great variety of high-quality food, including meats, cheeses, fish, and vegetables. There’s also clothing, jewelry, linen and a few other odds and ends for sale.

 

50. The St-Ouen Flea Market

If you’re a big bargain hunter, a visit to one of Europe’s largest flea markets is a must. St-Ouen Market has over 2,500 stalls divided into 14 specialty groups. You’ll need plenty of time and patience to devote to this market if you want to find something genuinely worthwhile.

 

50 Cool Things to Do in Paris - Louvre Park

 

For our trip to Paris, the Paris Tourism Board gave us complimentary Paris City Passports. These City Passports gave us free access to a number of Parisian attractions, the metro, and the Seine River Cruise. Even better, we got to skip the long lines at many of the Paris attractions listed above. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing in Paris, or you just don’t want to waste valuable time standing in line, then we highly recommend purchasing a Paris City Passport for convenient and efficient savings.

 

Now That You Know What To Do, Here’s Where To Stay In Paris

 

Budget Accommodation In Paris

 

Hotel Joke – Astotel

Hotel Joke receives raving reviews for a reason. The staff are friendly, the location is nearby a metro, and the overall ambience of the place is just plain fun. It’s a steal for what it offers at its price point.

Learn More Here

 

Hotel Scarlett

This fully renovated hotel offers stylish rooms at a convenient location nearby two different metro stations. Guests say the beds are particularly comfortable.

Learn More Here

 

Mid-Range Hotels In Paris

 

Hotel Le Six

This 4-star boutique hotel on the Paris Left Bank is as romantic as can be. Many of the most popular attractions are right outside your door, including Notre Dame and the Luxembourg Gardens. The sweeping buffet breakfast is always a highlight of any stay here.

Learn More Here

 

Hôtel Saint-Marc

The Saint-Marc is a chic option if you’re looking for luxury without the jaw-dropping price tag. (Remember, this is Paris!) Guests particularly love the Art Deco design, garden views, and filling breakfast. The staff is also friendly and welcoming.

Learn More Here

 

Luxury Accommodation In Paris

 

Mandarin Oriental Hotel

If you’re going to go luxury, then Paris is the place to go all out. The Mandarin Oriental is as romantic and lovely as can be, if you your budget allows. After a long day walking around and site-seeing, The Mandarin Oriental is a divine spot to relax with a cocktail in hand. Even if you don’t stay here, it’s worth stoping by for a drink.

Learn More Here

 

Le Ritz Paris

Another classic option in Paris, Le Ritz is famous for a reason. Pure luxury in the heart of Paris. Again even if you don’t stay here, stopping by the bar named after Hemingway is a must for all his fans and cocktail lovers. The history of Le Ritz is fascinating as well.

Learn More Here

 

Have you been to Paris? Anything to add to our bucket list? Anything on this list that caught your eye?

 

Not Sure What To Pack For Paris? Check Out Our Ultimate Him And Her Paris Packing List!

 

Cool Things To Do In Paris

 

 Did you enjoy this post? Then you’ll LOVE our newest addition to the series, 50 Cool Things To Do In NYC!