What to do in Paris during on your first trip? Here are my 15 best things and many tips 😉
When thinking about places to visit in Europe, Paris is always one of the first to come to mind. And why wouldn’t it be?
Considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world, France’s capital has all the ingredients that make it an unbeatable destination: stunning architecture, outstanding museums, beautiful parks and gardens, and, of course, world-renowned cuisine.
It’s not by accident that Paris has been one of the most visited cities in the world for years.
I’ve been to the City of Lights several times. In one of them, I took my sister and niece to visit Paris for the first time. Our four-day itinerary was filled with famous tourist attractions and things every first-times should do in Paris.
I know that planning a first-time visit to Paris can be overwhelming. Where to go, what to do and see, top attractions that can’t be missed, which are the best places to visit…
This is why I wrote this post with the 15 best things to do in Paris for first-timers to help you plan your trip.
Some of the most popular tours in Paris
Table of Contents
15 Best Things to Do on A First Trip to Paris
1 – Have a picnic at the Eiffel Tower
Of course, seeing the Eiffel Tower, the most-visited paid monument in the world is on your list.
But if you want to do something different and have an unforgettable time during your trip, you should have a picnic.
You can get a rug and go to the local boulangerie and supermarket to buy food, French beverages and flowers. Yes, having an epic picnic beneath this most iconic symbol of Paris is easier and cheaper than you might think.
We arrived at Parc du Champs-de-Mars early in the morning to beat the crowds and set up our picnic with the Eiffel Tower in the background.
It was such a beautiful sunny day and we took so many pictures that the chocolate melted… but even that turned out to be perfect with the strawberries in the end.
We had so much fun and will treasure this moment forever.
You should have a picnic at one of the most important Paris attractions.
2 – See the Eiffel Tower from different angles
It may sound clichéd, but a trip to Paris cannot be complete without seeing that global icon of France, the Eiffel Tower.
Constructed from 1887-89, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable structures in the world and, at 324m (1,063 ft) tall, the tallest structure in Paris, which can be seen from different parts of the city.
The best place to view the Eiffel Tower, whether during the day or night, is Trocadéro,
The Trocadéro is also one of the most Instagrammable places in Paris and also the Rue de l’Université. So don’t forget to put a visit to those two places on your list.
Quick Tip: If you want to take good pictures in those two places get there early in the morning because they are constantly crowded.
3 – Marvel at the stunning architecture present on every corner of the city
One of the best things about Paris is its incredibly beautiful architecture.
You can find structures from every period, from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, everywhere.
But among all the Gothic, French Renaissance, Belle Époque, Romanesque, Egyptian, Rustic, Modernist, Neo-Byzantine and Contemporary styles, what really stands out for me is the Classical and Art Deco architecture.
Even if you aren’t an architecture lover or expert, it’s impossible not to be impressed with the beauty of Paris’s buildings.
There are many monuments, fountains, squares and landmark buildings in Paris to admire, such as: Les Invalidés, Palais du Luxembourg, Pantheón, Arc de Triomphe, Petit Palais and Grand Palais, etc.
- You can check here The 8 Most Impressive Architectural Spots in Paris
Furthermore, Paris streets are full of surprises and just when you don’t expect it, you will bump into a magnificent piece of art standing in front of you.
I’ll never forget the day I got off the subway station and faced a gigantic column in the middle of the street, and when I saw Place de la Concorde for the first time.
I love being surprised and discovering new places when I’m visiting the City of Lights and for me, this is one of the best things to do in Paris.
4 – Visit the Louvre: the best museum in the world
There are many world-class museums in Paris but for me, the Louvre is unbeatable. Not just because of its collection but particularly because of its striking and imposing building.
Some people say that the Louvre is constantly overcrowded or that the d’Orsay Museum is better, but you can’t miss the Louvre Museum when visiting Paris for the first time.
Visiting the Louvre, the world’s largest museum is undoubtedly one of the things to do in Paris that first-timer visitors are looking forward to.
Quick Tip: Book your skip-the-line ticket online in advance here. If you prefer, you can book a skip-the-line ticket and a Seine Cruise here.
5 – See avant-garde temporary exhibitions
It’s not surprising that in a big and important city such as Paris, there will be dozens of things to do and see at any given time, including temporary exhibitions, concerts and plays.
When I saw a video on Facebook about the immersive Gustav Klimt exhibition at the Atelier des Lumières, I did not doubt that I had to see it.
The work of this Austrian painter was brought to life and projected on immense surfaces with sound and music that created a unique experience for the visitor.
The walls and floor were covered with colours from Gustav Klimt’s paintings, the projections were changing constantly and sometimes it seemed as if the whole floor was moving… It was thrilling and I loved it!
6 – Be in awe of the Opéra Garnier
Considered an architectural masterpiece and the most famous Opera House in the world, Palais Garnier, also referred to as Opéra Garnier or just Opéra was constructed between 1861 – 75 and includes elements from the Baroque, Classicism of Palladio and Renaissance architectures.
You could pay a quick visit to the Opéra Garnier to admire its façade with a majestic blend of styles but I recommend taking the guided tour because you can visit the interior of the building and learn and learn about its history, see the magnificent Grand Staircase, the auditorium etc.
You’ll be in awe from the moment you enter the Grand Foyer to the moment you leave!
7 – Go shopping at Galeries Lafayette
If you want to go shopping during your time in Paris, you can’t miss Galeries Lafayette, an upmarket French department store chain.
There are many different stores, offering a wide range of brands to suit all budgets and tastes. You can find the latest trends in men’s and women’s design collections, accessories, jewellery, home furnishing, cosmetics, etc.
If you’re visiting the Opéra Garnier, you can’t miss the flagship store located nearby on Boulevard Haussmann.
This art nouveau building has an impressive dome and offers a great panoramic view of Paris from its rooftop.
8 – Wander around charming Parisian neighbourhoods
The best way to explore Paris is on foot so be prepared to walk a lot during your first time in the city.
There are neighbourhoods to stroll around in for each kind of traveller: the movie fanatic, the romantic, the shopper, the bookworm, etc.
One of my favourites is Les Marais, where the narrow streets and architectural styles of Medieval and Renaissance-era of Paris have been preserved and which has many art galleries and boutiques full of stylish people.
Another neighbourhood to explore full of authentic Parisian charm is Montmartre.
Located on a large hill, Montmartre is known for the famous Sacra-Coeur Basilica, cabarets, watercolours, portrait sketchers and caricaturists and superb views of Paris.
Not to mention that it was also the residence of Picasso, Van Gogh, Matisse, Edgar Degas, Salvador Dali, Amedeo Modigliani and Dalida among others.
Wandering around the streets of Montmartre is one of the best things to do in Paris for first-timers and frequent visitors alike. You can do it at your own pace, but there also many interesting Paris walking tours that you could book.
Quick Tips: If this is your first time visiting Paris you probably want to watch a cabaret show at the iconic Moulin Rouge. Buy your ticket online in advance here.
Montmartre is also a good place to stay if you’re on a budget. It has one of the best hostels in Paris.
9 – Eat all the irresistible French pastries
You might be familiar with French cuisine and if you like it, I’m pleased to inform you that it tastes even better in France.
Because I have such a sweet tooth, every time I’m in Paris I eat some of my favourite pastries every day.
Pain au chocolate, croissants, macarons, madeleine, pain aux raisins… hmmmm
Make sure to eat plenty of French food during your trip to Paris, especially those pastries.
10 – Walk along the Seine Riverbank
Paris has scenic walks along the River Seine and some of the most beautiful landmark buildings in the city are located near the Seine.
Because some of the roads that run beside the river were pedestrianized you can stroll on parts of the riverbanks that are dotted with cafes and bars with outdoor tables, games facilities, sports areas, floating gardens, seating areas and artworks.
The most famous walkway is probably by the western tip of Saint-Louis Island but my favourite one is around the picturesque Ilê de la Cité.
If you travel to Paris during the summer, don’t miss the Paris Plages, two parts of the riverbanks that are transformed into a seaside resort with palm trees, parasols, deck chairs and sand.
I love walking on the Seine Riverbank and for me, it’s one of the best things to do in Paris.
11 – Be amazed by the impressive stained glasses of Sainte-Chapelle
Among the royal heritage buildings remaining in Paris, Sainte-Chapelle, a chapel commissioned by King Louis IX of France to house his collection of Passion relics, is considered one of the world’s greatest masterpieces of Gothic architecture.
Constructed between 1242 – 48, Sainte-Chapelle de Paris is famous for having the most extensive collection of 13th-century stained glass windows in the world.
Fifteen huge, gorgeous windows displaying the New and Old Testaments fill the nave and apse and leave visitors completely speechless.
Quick Tip: Because Sainte-Chapelle is such a small chapel, a visit can be over very quickly and feel disappointing. So I recommend taking an audio guide to learn more about its history and be patient with the huge lines to get in.
- Book your Self-guided Tour and Skip-the-line ticket to Sainte-Chapelle online in advance here.
12 – Take a Seine River cruise
Sailing along the River Seine and seeing the City of Lights from another perspective is on the must-to-do list of many people who are taking a trip to Paris.
You will have the opportunity to pass under magnificent bridges, spot legendary Paris landmarks and even dine on board a bateaux mouche.
Several companies are offering Seine River cruise experiences and prices start as low as 13.5 euros per adult.
13 – Take a look at Notre-Dame, the queen of cathedrals
Like the Palais de Garnier, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral is another world-famous symbol of Paris and one of its most important tourist attractions.
Completed in 1345, the cathedral is considered to be the finest example of French Gothic architecture in the world.
The cathedral is also known for its gargoyles, chimaera statues, intricate façade, rose windows and one of the best views of Paris.
Unfortunately, after the fire that happened in 2019, the cathedral hasn’t opened yet. They’re planning to open it for the Olympics in 2024. But meanwhile, you can take a closer look at its façade.
14 – Celebrate special moments
Paris is a city that naturally exudes romance. So, it’s common to see couples doing wedding photoshoots, renewing vows and celebrating their love with the City of Lights’ most famous landmarks as a background.
But even if you’re a solo traveller or are in Paris with friends and relatives, you should take a moment to commemorate this special occasion.
On my last visit, I reunited with friends who live in Paris to have drinks just as the Eiffel Tower lit up to celebrate my niece and sister’s first time in Paris.
Quick Tip: One of the best things to do in Paris at night is to see the Eiffel Tower Light Show. It happens daily from sunset to 1:00 AM (2:AM in the summer) and the tower twinkles for 5min every hour.
15 – Take tons of pictures
A trip to Paris is a guarantee of taking great pictures to share with your followers on social media.
After all, how many cities in the world are as beautiful and picturesque as the City of Lights?
There are many Instagrammable places in Paris to boost your Instagram account such as:
- Musée d’Orsay and the giant clock inside;
- Rue Crémieux (famously colourful houses on this street);
- Canal de Saint-Martin;
- Jardin du Louxembourg;
- Pont Alexandre III;
- Moulin Rouge;
- L’Arc de Triomphe;
- Ladurée Paris (on the Champs Elysées);
- Champs-Élysées Avenue;
- Carousel of the Eiffel Tower,
- Hôtel de Ville (Paris’s City Hall);
- Shakespeare’s Bookshop, etc.
These are just 15 awesome things to do in Paris for first-timers and I believe in three days you will be able to see it all.
If you’re spending more time in the city you can also visit Les Catacombes, Les Invalidés, D’Orsay Museum, Centre Georges Pompidou, Musée de l’Orangerie, Disneyland Paris, etc.
Safe travels and enjoy the City of Lights.
Things to do in Paris in 3 Days – Suggested Itinerary
- Day 1 – Eiffel Tower, Montmartre, Palais Garnier and Galleries Lafayette
- Day 2 – Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, Champs-Élisées, Arc de Triomphe
- Day 3 – Sainte Chapelle, walk along the Seine, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Les Marais, Seine River Cruise and see the Eiffel Tower at night
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Tips for Visiting Paris for the First Time
Where is Paris?
Paris, the city and capital of France, is situated in the north-central part of the country (check the map here).
How to get there?
Paris is one of the hubs in Europe and you can get there by bus, flight or train. I took a National Express bus from London.
You can book your flights with Skyscanner, which is the website that I use and trust.
Of course, France doesn’t end with Paris. If you’re planning to travel throughout the country, you’ll find this guide for getting around France quite helpful.
Best time to visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris is from April to June and October to early November when the weather is mild and enjoyable and the tourist crowds are smaller than in summer.
The cheapest time to visit Paris is early December, January, and February but be prepared for the severe winter.
I’ve been to Paris in December, January, August and the end of May and I do think that June and October are the best months.
Where did I stay?
I stayed at Ibis Paris Grands Boulevards Opera 9e and liked it.
The location was perfect, just a few minutes walk to the Opera Garnier and Montmartre and very easy to get to most of the Paris attractions. Book your room here.
Have you ever been to Paris? What did you think of my list? Let me know in the comments below 😉
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