Culture / Best of

Paris,12 must-sees

12 must-see monuments in Paris have gained the French capital worldwide renown

2,185 monuments and 206 museums, an extraordinary heritage !

The top things to do on a first-time visit: enjoy a panoramic view of the city from a 330-metre height at the top of the Eiffel Tower, admire Victor Hugo’s beloved gargoyles at Notre Dame Cathedral and stand at the top of the tallest hill in Paris at the Sacré Cœur Basilica. These are the three monuments most popular with visitors to Paris. Not far from Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sainte Chapelle with its beautiful stained glass windows is also well worth visiting.

A short distance from the Champs-Elysées, the Grand Palais, a huge stone, steel and glass structure, hosts prestigious exhibitions. Built by Napoleon, the Arc de Triomphe offers a breathtaking bird’s-eye view of the city.

In the heart of Paris, the Louvre is a former royal residence which was transformed into a museum after the Revolution and has since become the world’s most visited museum. The Musée d’Orsay houses the largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings in the world.

Another must-see is the Palais Garnier with its ornately decorated façade and its ceiling painted by Marc Chagall. Finally, a trip out to the Père Lachaise cemetery offers the opportunity to pay homage at the tombs of many famous people.

Paris Attitude street art

Themed walks to discover Paris in a different way

After exploring the unmissable sights, let yourself be guided by our themed walks. Stroll along the Seine, delve into the soul of the historic Marais, discover the charming little streets of Montmartre or set off on an unusual stroll to Père Lachaise.

Looking for a special atmosphere? Opt for a romantic itinerary or explore the street art in the 13th arrondissement.

Discover our ideas for walks in Paris

More information about the 12 must-see places in Paris that you absolutely must visit

Rooftop CREATURES - Galeries Lafayette | 630x405 | © Benedetta Chiala

High-rise views: the most beautiful panoramic vistas

Want to admire Paris in 360°? Climb to the top of a tower or a major monument - Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Sacré-Coeur de Montmartre, Montparnasse Tower, Cité de l'architecture, Louis Vuitton Foundation - relax on a terrace or enjoy a unique hot-air balloon experience with the Ballon de Paris Generali or the Ballon PanoraMag ique.

Also discover our best spots for contemplating the Paris sky!

The most beautiful rooftops in Paris

Frequently asked questions

Are the Seine, its bridges and its canals one of the must-sees in Paris?

Absolutely! The Seine shapes the identity of the capital, and its iconic bridges offer exceptional views. Stroll along the quays, embarking on an unforgettable cruise, or exploring the Parisian canals are all ways to (re)discover the city in a different way.

What to do in Paris depending on the season or time of year?

Paris offers a wide range of activities all year round: exhibitions, walks, events, rooftop bars, shows, and more. Whether you come in spring, summer, autumn or winter, there is always a great idea for an outing.

What are the must-sees during a weekend in Paris?

It's not always easy to choose among the wonders of Paris when you only have two days! To make the most of your stay, discover our selection of 50 must-sees in a weekend: major museums, iconic walks, unusual places... An ideal programme for savouring the essentials of Paris, without missing a thing.

What are the must-do activities for families in Paris?

Paris is a city full of surprises for young and old alike. Fun museums, walks, shows, parks and cruises... Discover our selection of 10 unmissable family outings, for memorable moments with your children in the capital.

More ideas