Things To Do in Paris - a Comprehensive Guide to Exploring France's Capital

The realm of Paris; where do we even begin? This is a city where every cobblestone carries traces of history and every avenue is woven with cultural experiences. Each arrondissement is a world of its own, a unique chapter in this 2000-year old story of art, passion, gastronomy, style - and life!

Known as The City of Love, Paris city is a kaleidoscope of emotions waiting to be explored. From the bohemian spirit of Montmartre to the timeless elegance of the Latin Quarter and the ancient heartbeat of the Ile de la Cité, it houses masterpieces in their droves whilst its charming streets are home to gastronomic delight, refined wines and iconic fashion.

Have you ever strolled along the banks of the Seine, gazed up at the Eiffel Tower glittering against the night sky, or lost yourself in the treasures of the Louvre? Whether you’re returning to the City of Light for another adventure or planning your very first visit, Paris offers a blend of timeless beauty, cultural richness and everyday charm that never fails to captivate. This guide highlights not only the iconic landmarks but also some lesser-known gems that reveal a more intimate side of this enchanting city.

Parks and Green Spaces: Famous and Hidden Gems

Beyond its famous landmarks, Paris offers natural paradises away from the bustling city streets in beautiful gardens and vibrant green spaces. From ancient parks to thick forests and hidden squares perfect for picnics, these outdoor areas invite visitors to stroll and relax whilst reflecting upon the city’s unique charm.

Paris’s Most Beloved Gardens

Jardin des Tuileries

Created in the 17th century, this elegant formal garden - once the playground of royalty - links the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées. Stroll among sculptures, fountains, and tree-lined paths, or pause in the Carousel Gardens to enjoy the landscape of Paris. A timeless blend of history, art and open-air beauty at the city’s heart.

Jardin du Luxembourg

In the 6th arrondissement, the gardens enchant with grand promenades, palm trees and colourful flowerbeds. The elegant Medici Fountain is a highlight, especially at sunset. Relax by the tranquil pond or admire the palace from a shaded bench - the perfect spot to watch Parisian life unfold.

Parc Monceau

With statues, an 18th-century colonnade, and pyramid follies, this park is a visual delight. Located in the 8th arrondissement, it was created for Prince Philippe Égalité and blends English and French garden design. Behind its wrought-iron gates, willow trees, ponds, and flowering paths create a tranquil escape that has inspired artists for centuries.

Lesser-Known Parks in Paris Worth Exploring

Jardin des Plantes - est. 1626, with gardens, hothouses, a natural history museum and one of the world’s oldest menageries - perfect for botany and wildlife enthusiasts.

Belleville Park - artistic flair with undulating paths, fountains, flower beds and cityscape views; makes a lovely pre-dinner stroll at dusk when lamp posts illuminate its walkways.

Cité Internationale Universitaire - non-touristy oasis with tree-lined paths, ponds, lawns, and architectural pavilions representing over 40 countries; perfect for peaceful strolls, cultural events or relaxing away from the city bustle.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont - charms with its waterfalls, grottos, cliff-top views, a miniature Roman temple and 47 tree species; enjoy picnics, cycling and family fun amid striking landscapes.

Forests Around Paris

Explore the expansive, iconic Forest of Fontainebleau, known for rock climbing and hiking, and the easily accessible Forêt de Meudon near the city for a quick nature escape. For larger green spaces within the city, explore the Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes, offering walking trails and bridleways.

Savour the Taste of Paris

Paris is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from fresh pastries and coffee in bustling cafés to fine dining in world-class restaurants. No matter which arrondissement you find yourself in, gastronomic delights await around every corner. Explore lively markets brimming with cheese, wine, and bread, enjoy a leisurely lunch on a sun-dappled terrace, or sample classic French dishes in a traditional bistro. While the city also boasts a thriving international and modern culinary scene, it is French cuisine that truly defines Paris.

Bonjour, Breakfast!

Directly opposite the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame, Café Panis is a charming spot bathed in greenery, where classic elegance meets the friendly, relaxed vibe of a traditional brasserie. Set yourself up for the day with salmon avocado toast or croque monsieur or go all-out French with frogs legs or snails in parsley sauce.

Kozy Bosquet, close to the Eiffel Tower, serves delicious pancakes, granola bowls and banana bread, as well as its homemade peanut butter! Choose from a range of yummy hot beverages within its joyful white and blue surroundings.

On a sunny Sunday morning, sip a colourful latte at Café Berry, nestled in the vibrant Le Marais district, where rustic walls and a welcoming atmosphere radiate warmth and wellbeing.

Classic French Bistros

Favoured for its inventive, seasonal menus, Lichette is a hidden gem in the 20th arrondissement, serving exceptional, authentic French cuisine. Expect generous portions, thoughtful wine pairings, affordable prices, and attentive, personalised service.

Bouillon Chartier, founded in 1896, is a true Paris institution. Originating from a humble beef stew ("bouillon") made by a Les Halles butcher, it’s now famed for its hearty, traditional dishes served in a lively, historic dining hall.

A more refined but equally classic option is Restaurant Joséphine – Chez Dumonet in the 6th. With generous portions and timeless French cooking, it offers a warm, intimate setting steeped in tradition.

For quintessential bistro charm, La Fontaine de Mars delivers—think red-and-white canopies, checked tablecloths, and a chalkboard menu. Located on Rue du Mail, it’s perfect for duck confit, beef tartare, and a generous helping of Parisian atmosphere.

Finally, for a lighter lunch and prime people-watching, grab a terrace seat at Café Charlot on Rue de Bretagne. A charcuterie board and a glass of merlot make for a perfectly indulgent midday pause.

Fine Dining in the City of Light

Le Meurice Alain Ducasse, set in a palace hotel, offers refined French cuisine in an opulent, art-filled dining room, with dishes that are both innovative and steeped in tradition, whilst L’Ambroisie, tucked in the charming Place des Vosges, is renowned for its impeccable classic French fare and understated elegance.

If contemporary fine dining is more your style, visit Septime, in the 11th arrondissement, whose contemporary, sustainably sourced cuisine combines modern techniques with vibrant flavours in a relaxed yet stylish setting.

For a true celebration of French gastronomy, book a table at the luxurious Guy Savoy, overlooking the Seine, famed for artful, imaginative dishes, such as its iconic artichoke and black truffle soup, alongside an impeccable service.

Sweet Treats, Pastries and Tantalising Discoveries

Indulge in haute pâtisserie: award-winning chef Nina Métayer presents her delicate creations at Printemps du Goût and Halles Biltoki. Don’t miss the rum baba or her seasonal fig tart - a perfect autumn treat.

Step into Parisian tradition: Angelina, a beloved tearoom since 1903, offers timeless elegance with dishes like eggs benedict, millefeuille, and a standout lemon pie.

Wander the markets: explore the sensory-rich Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market, for fresh produce and international bites. Or stroll through Marché Bastille for picnic-ready fruits, herbs, and breads.

Discover Paris’s Gourmet Side at:

À la Mère de Famille - classic handcrafted chocolates.

La Maison du Chocolat - luxury ganaches and confections.

Caractère de Cochon - cured meats and pâtés that embody French charcuterie at its finest.

Cultural Highlights and the Arts

Paris has long been the cultural heart of Europe. From world-renowned museums to intimate galleries and private collections, the city offers an endless feast for art lovers. Whether you’re drawn to classical masterpieces, modern design, or fashion as art, Paris captures the spirit of French artistry and its enduring global influence.

The Louvre

Let’s start with the most visited museum in the world, an historic landmark in its own right, built in the late 12th century as a medieval fortress, later transformed into a royal palace before becoming a public museum during the French Revolution. It houses more than 35,000 works of art, ranging from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. Marvel at masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo and admire the iconic glass pyramid entrance symbolising the blend of history and modernity that makes the Louvre such an essential Paris experience.

Musée d'Orsay

Housed in the former Gare d'Orsay, a Beaux-Arts railway station built from 1898 to 1900, the museum holds mainly French art dating from 1848 to 1914. From remarkable sculptures to breath-taking paintings, it is a treasure trove of creative masterpieces.

Musée de l’Orangerie

Nestled in the Tuileries Gardens, the Musée de l’Orangerie is a charming museum best known for its breathtaking mural ensemble of Claude Monet's Water Lilies. The museum also features works by other major artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, including Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse, and Amedeo Modigliani. Its intimate galleries allow visitors to experience art up close, making it a perfect complement to the larger museums.

La Galerie Dior

Delight in this wonderful collection from the brand archives giving you the story of Christian Dior and his ten years at his eponymous brand, as well as the six designers that followed. Lose yourself in stunning scenography - miniature ateliers, iconic silhouettes, sketches, and perfumes woven into a seamless story of the house - which forms a beautiful immersive gallery environment. The white floating spiral staircase featuring a rainbow of tiny exquisite dresses and accessories is enough to put a smile on the faces of the least fashion-conscious, let alone a fan of Dior!

Centre Pompidou

If modern and contemporary art is more your style, the Centre Pompidou stands as Europe’s leading museum of modern art, second only to New York’s MoMA in global acclaim. Its reputation alone is enough to captivate any visitor. The building itself is a striking sight, unlike any other, with its exposed structural elements and brightly coloured exterior pipes. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of artistic media, from video installations and sculpture to works by the Fauvists and Cubists.

Museums and Galleries Beyond the Classics

Musée Rodin - blends art and nature, showcasing The Thinker in tranquil garden surroundings.

Les Invalides - impresses with military history and Napoleon’s grand tomb.

The Musée des Arts Forains - for something playful, this delights with vintage fairground rides in a magical setting.

Fondation Louis Vuitton - the bold, glass-sailed structure hosts major modern art shows.

Musée Picasso - offers an intimate look at the artist’s vast legacy in a historic Marais mansion.

Historic Sites and Monuments

Paris is steeped in history, where iconic monuments tell stories of faith, art, and national pride. From soaring towers to sacred basilicas, these historic sites offer unforgettable glimpses into the heart of the city.

The Eiffel Tower

No visit to Paris feels complete without a stop at the Eiffel Tower, the city’s most iconic landmark. Rising above the skyline it is a symbol of romance and ingenuity, and it’s impossible not to be captivated by its delicate iron latticework and sheer scale. From the base, street performers and cafés set a lively scene, while the lifts and stairs promise panoramic views of the Seine, Montmartre and rooftops of Paris. By night, the tower sparkles, casting a magical glow over the city.

Notre Dame Cathedral

This must-see landmark is rich in history and Gothic architecture. Construction began in 1163, and its soaring spires, flying buttresses, and intricate stone carvings have drawn visitors for centuries. Bask in the colourful light created by the stained-glass rose windows, marvel at the beauty of the restoration work achieved since the devastating fire in 2019 and watch out for the gargoyles in the towers. Notre Dame is both a heritage treasure and a living symbol of the city; not just a destination, but an unforgettable experience to treasure.

Sacré-Cœur Basilica

Sitting atop the Montmartre hill - the highest point in Paris - this church is acclaimed for its striking architecture and breathtaking panoramic city views. Designed in Roman-Byzantine style, it was built as a symbol of faith, hope and national penance following the Franco-Prussian War. Admire its white domes that gleam brilliantly in the natural light, climb the almost 300 steps leading up to the dome - where you’ll get to see fabulous views and the exquisite Christ in Majesty mosaic.

Hidden History Past the Usual

As you can imagine, Paris offers plenty of less renowned historic landmarks, revealing a deeper side of the city beyond the usual tourist trail.

Arc de Triomphe – standing proudly atop the Champs-Élysées, this iconic monument honours soldiers of the Revolutionary and Napoleonic wars. Climb to the top for panoramic city views and a tangible connection to France’s military legacy.

The Panthéon – located in the Latin Quarter, this neoclassical masterpiece is the resting place of France’s great minds, including Voltaire and Marie Curie. Inside, marvel at striking frescoes, the Foucault Pendulum, and the serene, reflective atmosphere under its soaring dome.

Place de la Concorde – a striking blend of elegance and dark history, this grand square was once the site of guillotine executions during the French Revolution. Today, it features ornate fountains, classical statues, and the Luxor Obelisk, symbolizing Paris’s rich and layered past.

Streets Rich with Character

Paris is best explored on foot, where every street tells a story. Some dazzle with history and luxury, others hum with everyday life, and a few surprise with unexpected charm and colour. From architecture to haute couture to bustling markets, these streets offer a glimpse of the city’s spirit. Here are just a few packed with Parisian character and charm.

The Champs-Élysées

The 1.2 mile 17th-century avenue was originally designed as a landscaped promenade, later becoming a major hive of entertainment, commerce and national events. Lined with luxury stores famed for their seasonal decoration, theatres and lively cafés and restaurants, it is both a symbol of elegance and a popular tourist destination. It is famous for hosting events such as the Bastille Day military parade and being the final stretch of the Tour de France.

Avenue Montaigne

In the 8th arrondissement, near the Champs-Élysées, resides one-third of Paris’s “Golden Triangle” (with Avenue des Champs-Élysées and Avenue George V); the heart of luxury fashion. After trailing its many high-fashion houses, including Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Givenchy, order a coffee in one of its elegant cafés.

Rue Montorgueil

In the 2nd arrondissement, Rue Montorgueil is a lively, pedestrian-friendly market street, steeped in everyday life in the city. Famous for its bakeries, fromageries, cafés, and fresh produce stalls, it offers a taste of traditional gastronomy. Strolling here, you’ll hear locals chatting, sample fresh pastries and enjoy a vibrant slice of city life far from the tourist crowds.

Rue Cremieux

For something entirely different, Rue Cremieux in the 12th arrondissement is an Instagrammer’s dream. This charming residential street is lined with pastel-coloured houses, each with its own personality, offering a whimsical contrast to Paris’s grand boulevards. Quiet and picturesque, it’s perfect for a leisurely walk and Instagram-worthy shots.

After days spent wandering Paris’s storied streets, indulging in fine dining, and soaking up the city’s artistic spirit, why not retreat somewhere equally inspiring? Just beyond the city limits lie some of France’s most beautiful châteaux — places where history, elegance, and comfort combine in true French style. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil countryside escape or a grand estate steeped in heritage, Celtic Castles offers exclusive stays that capture the romance of France at its finest.

Stay in a French Château

Celtic Castles features French châteaux located in and around Paris. You will have ample choice for accommodation should you choose to visit France' capital city. Get a feel of what our properties can add to your visit to Paris.

Château Jeanne & The Forest

Perfect for those wishing to pair days in the capital with peaceful evenings surrounded by nature, this luxurious base is just 20 miles from Paris and a short drive from Charles de Gaulle Airport.

France’s largest château hotel offers a sanctuary in the heart of the historic Chantilly Forest. Set within 15 acres of parkland, its graceful façade and manicured gardens evoke classic French romance, while interiors blend timeless elegance with contemporary sophistication.

Of the 119 beautifully designed rooms and suites, 39 are tailored for work and leisure, many showcasing stunning garden views. Savour gourmet dishes at the property’s restaurants or enjoy a handcrafted, herbalist-inspired cocktail at The Social Bar. Between Parisian excursions, unwind at the onsite spa, stroll through the surrounding forest, or simply sit and soak up the striking interiors and serene atmosphere.

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Château de Bourron

Just an hour (40 miles) south of Paris, and easily reached by train, this serene escape sits within a 100-acre estate of lawns and woodland. Its proximity to Fontainebleau Forest makes it ideal for travellers seeking a balance of Parisian culture and rural tranquillity.

The 17th-century pavilions, built on 14th-century fortress foundations, and the château’s surrounding moats fed by a natural spring, create a charming and historic setting. Guests can stay in one of nine individually decorated bedrooms, each retaining period features while offering modern comforts. The gastronomic Les Prémices, housed in the old stables, provides exquisite dining within walking distance.

When you’re not roaming the Parisian streets, explore the grounds, discover hidden statues, play tennis, or let children enjoy the sandpit.

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Château de la Barre

Close enough for a Paris day trip yet deep in the Loire’s charm, this beautifully styled residence extends the magic of France beyond the city.

Tucked away within private parkland and elegant gardens, but less than two hours from Paris, it has been home to the Count and Countess de Vanssay for over 615 years, offering a rare taste of French aristocratic life, complete with gracious hospitality and Art Nouveau ambiance.

Each of the seven uniquely styled bedrooms tells its own story, with antiques, grand fireplaces and Versailles parquet floors. For the ultimate treat, book the Chambre Marin de Vanssay - meet the English-speaking Countess, enjoy a private tour with the 20th-generation Count and indulge in exclusive perks. Whichever room you choose, Château de la Barre will be a cherished part of your Parisian adventure.

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Why Choose Celtic Castles When You Visit Paris?

Whether paired with a few dazzling days in Paris or enjoyed as stand-alone destinations, these châteaux invite you to experience France’s elegance at its most authentic.

Paris offers an endless world of discovery - from its glittering boulevards and world-class museums to its hidden gardens and intimate cafés. But beyond the city’s rhythm lies another side of France waiting to be experienced: tranquil forests, grand estates, and the timeless elegance of the château lifestyle.

Whether you dream of sipping Champagne in Reims, exploring the historic halls of Bourron, or waking to birdsong in the Chantilly Forest, Celtic Castles can help turn your Parisian escape into an extraordinary French adventure.

Our castle experts are on hand seven days a week to offer free, unbiased advice from first enquiry to booking - or book easily online at your convenience. Browse our French châteaux or let us know your requirements.