Being one of the most fascinating cities in the world, Paris is undoubtedly on a lot of travel enthusiast’s bucket list. There’s just so much to do and explore here that you’ll be surprised. If you’re got your tickets booked or are planning to do so anytime soon, here’s a bit of help your way to get you to make the most of your trip. Even if you’re here for a short time, do try to do at least a few of these.
Read on to discover the 10+ things that definitely should be on your Paris tour itinerary.
Visit the Eiffel Tower
Attracting some 220 million visitors from around the world, it sounds crazy to believe that the Eiffel tower was so unpopular at the time, that it was almost torn down. Today, it dazzles the night sky in Paris and now has solar panels and observation decks for all tourists to enjoy. Getting yourself here is an absolute mandate, even though it may be cliche.
Take a Private Tour
There nothing quite like touring Paris with a local. You can private tour Paris with a local guide to find great food, the best art, small quaint boutiques, and get some unique insights into what makes this city such a beautiful one.
Indulge in Some Chocolate
Paris is known for its bakeries and indulgent sweet treats, and when you’re here, don’t miss out on your chance to taste some of the finest chocolates and other creations. Croissants and macaroons are worth a try to, and if you’re looking to take things up a notch, sign up for a chocolate food tour.
Take a Bike Tour
Parisian streets are lined with cute little cafes and shops and architectural wonders, and what could be a better way to discover them than on a bike? You can opt for one of the many guided bike tours that you’ll find around the city, or just explore on your own. This is one of the best ways to see a lot without having to spend a lot- the perfect idea for all those vacationing on a budget.
Dine on the Seine River
When in Paris, you absolutely wouldn’t want to miss out on treating yourself to a charming cruise trip that goes for a few hours on the Seine river. Here, you’ll enjoy live music, indulge in a four course traditional French meal and explore some great tourist attractions including the Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, among many others.
Chill at the Luxembourg Gardens
Parisians may be found relaxing and lazing around, if that’s exactly what you’re looking to do when you’re here, the Luxembourg Gardens are the perfect place to do so. You’ll find joggers and walkers aplenty here- you can join them or just unwind the formal gardens spread across the estate, or even stop for a while to check out the statues of important women in French history that they have there.
Explore the Catacombs
Paris may be known for its romance, but there’s also a creepy side to the city. Get yourself underground to explore the catacombs- the most mysterious attraction in Paris. These catacombs go under a huge portion of the city, and have miles and miles of tunnels, that were originally a part of a the underground mines, and later became a sort of cemetery for those who lost their lives in the 18th and 19th centuries. It’s easy to get lost there, so make sure you take a guided tour.
Hit the Louvre
Of course, you can’t get back from Paris without visiting the Louvre- the world’s largest and most visited art museum. Whether you’ve got an interest in art or not, you absolutely won’t want to miss out on getting yourself here. The massive collection has some 38,000 works including the famous ones like Mona Lisa, Winged Victory and so many more. Infact, if you would want to make the best of your time here, taking a guided tour is possibly your best bet.
Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral
The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most unique Gothic cathedrals in all of Paris, and the architectural marvel that it is is a reason enough for you to get yourself here. The towers are spiraled and dramatic, and the stained glass windows and pieces are bound to make you go ‘wow’. Come here and you’ll be able to truly understand why it is one of the top attractions in Paris.
Stroll Up and Around Canal St Martin
Want to get a taste of contemporary Paris? Get yourself to the Canal St Martin which has some great shops and restaurants to explore. You’ll also find plenty of bookstores and boutiques to check out as well, and if you’re here during the day, it can also turn out to be a superb picnic spot. Another great idea is to take a tour of the canal by the boat.
Shop at the Flea Market
Got shopping on your mind? Paris has you covered with one of the most massive flea markets ever- the St. Ouen Flea Market! You’ll definitely be confused and overwhelmed as you pass through the labyrinth of stalls and shops, but explore to your heart’s content to find some hidden gems. Looking to take something special back home from here? Silver cutlery is something you absolutely can’t go wrong with.
Enjoy Some Famous Ice Cream
Berthillon is one of the best places for all ice-cream lovers, and if you’re in Paris, get here to be absolutely spoilt for choice with over 100 flavors of ice-cream to pick from. The shop is located on a small island in Seine, and if you’re near Notre Dame Cathedral, this place is super close! There are some simple flavors like peach and strawberry and some other interesting ones like white chocolate and pistachio.
From the little cobbled streets to the charming banks of the river Seine, Paris is full of everything magical, and there’s just so much to do that you can’t go wrong. Brace yourself for an unforgettable time if you’re here for the first time, and there’s a lot places of historical importance to get yourself immersed in. Go ahead and explore!
i wanted to do a bike tour the last time I was in Paris but it didn’t happen. Next time, for sure.