The Top 10 Must Visit Places in Paris

Dubbed as one of the most beautiful places and the most romantic city in the world, also known as the “City of Lights,” Paris brims with historical association and influence in the realms of fashion, culture, art, history, food, and design.

So what makes Paris one of the most visited cities in the world? Let alone these 10 iconic places be the reason. Here are the must visit places in Paris that show you just how enchanting this French cosmopolitan is.

  1. The Eiffel Tower

Wonderful view of Eiffel Tower

No other structure in the city is more iconic than the famous Eiffel Tower. The very symbol of the city, the Tower was designed by Gustav Eiffel in commemoration of the French Revolution centenary. Standing at 324 meters high, you can reach the very top either by standing in line to get on the elevator, or you can opt to take the stairs – which consists of over 1000 steps.

Once you get to the peak, you’ll have breathtaking views of the city – making it a must-visit for anyone who wants to experience the Parisian star attraction.

  1. The Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum and the Pyramid in Paris

The Louvre was originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century but is now home to the world’s most visited art museum. It is located in the heart of Paris and consists of over 210,00 square meters of space and over 60,600 exhibitions.

The highlights of the museum are some of the world’s most recognizable paintings and works of art, such as Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, and the Venus de Milo.

  1. Notre Dame Cathedral

Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris

It took over 170 years to complete this cathedral, which is located at the city’s very center. A Roman Catholic cathedral, Notre Dame, is among the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in the whole of France and that of Europe.

Designed by the Bishop Maurice de Sully, construction began in 1163 but the cathedral was only finished in 1345. Amazing portals and sculptures fill the cathedral, with the iconic gargoyle sculptures located on the roof.

With its looming ceilings and spectacular stained glass windows. The cathedral is more than just a place of worship but one of the world’s greatest examples of Gothic architecture and design.

  1. The Arch of Triumph at the Champs Elysees

Arc de triomphe Paris

The avenue of Champs Elysees features shops and quaint cafes, but its main highlight is the Arch of Triumph, which is the largest monument of its kind in the world.

Designer Jean Chalgrin was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte to design the arch, dedicated to the victories of the Imperial armies. There are over 500 names of generals that are engraved on the arch, as well as each of the army’s victories.

The magnificent arch looms above the avenue, offering a spectacular feature that makes Paris a true work of art.

  1. Montmartre

Sacre coeur Cathedral iin Paris France

Montmartre is a hill found in the northern area of Paris. Elevated at 130 meters high, the area is best known for the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, which is a white-domed structure completed in 1919 in honor of the French victims of the Franco-Prussian war of 1850.

The area is also popular among artists as it houses The Espace of Salvador Dali – featuring some of the legendary artist’s sculptures and drawings.

Parisian artists are also seen selling their works on the Square of Tertre, which is a few blocks away from the Basilica. It plays host to many artists who sketch on the spot, paint and sell or present their works of art.

  1. Cruise on the Siene

Boat tour on Seine river with sunset in Paris France

A river cruise on the Siene is one of the best ways to see the city in all its glory. Get to see the Notre Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and the Pont Alexandre III from a boat and get a bigger glimpse of the magnificent skyline at night.

The best way to see Paris at night is by a dinner cruise on the river.

  1. Palace of Versailles

Beautiful Gardens in the Palace of Versailles Paris France

The perfect example of the decadence and opulence of the lives of the royalty, this magnificent Palace is the most famous castle in the whole of France.

Built during the 17th century, the palace is a complex of buildings, terraces, and gardens that are made in the style of Renaissance architecture and design.

  1. The Quartier Latin / Luxembourg Park

Luxembourg Palace Paris France

The Quartier Latin is famous for its student life, hip bistros, and lively atmosphere. The location of many of Paris’s most exclusive universities, the Latin Quarter is the very place for watching the city’s most stylish and hippest sets of young intellects.

Near the Quarter is the Luxembourg Park, which is a private garden that opened its doors to the public. Charmingly known as “Luco” among Parisians, the park surrounds the Palais du Luxembourg, which houses the Senate seats.

Several trees and lush greenery are found at the park, with several species of apple trees, an apiary, and a greenhouse with an orchid collection are all open for the general public to explore.

  1. Disneyland Paris

Fun Tİme in Disneyland Paris France

Paris isn’t just for the couple on a honeymoon, or for young individuals who want to hone their skills in art, fashion, or design. Paris is also home to two Disneyland theme parks, which are the most visited theme parks in France and that of Europe.

Opened in 1992 and built on a 4,800-acre property, Disneyland Paris features Disneyland (with the castle), and Walt Disney Studios. There are 7 resort hotels and a golf club are also located in the park. While the museums, historical landmarks, shopping, and culture are perfect itineraries for adults, Disneyland Paris offers the perfect place for families with kids.

  1. Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge Paris France

This Parisian institution is an iconic symbol of France’s lively historical past. The home of the cabaret, it gave birth to the famous French Can-can dance – a courtship and sensual dance that evolved into the cabaret, which is being performed all around the world today.

Countless movies have been made about this historic landmark in Paris, prompting tourists and moviegoers to stand in awe at the presence of the very place that created a vastly entertaining dance and cultural phenomenon.

Today, Moulin Rouge still has their famous red windmill, and the place still offers musical dance entertainment with topless dancers, acts, and other performances.

Paris is undoubtedly a truly romantic city – everywhere you look are structures and buildings that feature magnificent architecture, design, and art. If you want to have the ultimate Parisian experience, visit each of these landmarks, explore on foot, and discover the vast culture, art, and historical offerings of the world’s most beautiful city.

About the Author: Darrel Bella is a travel enthusiast with a love for culture, history, and nature. He is the Managing Partner at The Luxury Signature, a luxury villa rental company featuring Southeast Asia’s most exclusive villa collection. Darrel is currently handling the company’s business development and marketing departments.

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