10 Must-See Sites on Your First Trip to Paris

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Anyone with an ounce of wanderlust in their blood should have Paris on their travel bucket list. The City of Light is as iconic of a travel destination as it gets. And there is so much to see and do!

Honestly, it can be overwhelming.

But don’t let that stop you! In Planning for Paris I’ve spelled out how I made planning our recent trip to Paris fun and manageable. You can also get some different perspectives from my fellow travelers in Passport to Paris.

Now that I’ve got you thinking about all things Paris, and hopefully considering your first (or next) trip to the City of Lights, check out Traveling Tanya’s 10 must-see sights!

But before you start packing your bags, get your bearings by checking out this map of Paris. Note the arrondissements, or districts, that break Paris down into manageable chunks. They are numbered 1-20 and start in the city center and spiral out. The arrondissements for each of my Must-See Sites below are listed to help you navigate your way.

It is also helpful to know that the Seine River flows through the center of Paris, essentially dividing the city into 2 parts. The portion north of the Seine is referred to as the Right Bank. The portion south of the Seine is called the Left Bank.

Now you are ready to explore Paris’ hotspots!

1. Eiffel Tower (7th Arr.)

Of course, EVERY trip to Paris must include marveling at the Eiffel Tower! I can’t think of any structure in the world that is more recognizable than the Eiffel Tower. But no matter how many times you have seen pictures of this masterpiece of steel, it will still take your breath away when you see it in person.

Personally, I think you should take the time and spend the money to go up inside the tower at least once. You can purchase tickets online to save time, but you will need to plan at least a few months ahead or pre-sale tickets will likely be sold out. But don’t fear, you can always buy tickets on-sight.

When traveling in non-peak seasons, I’ve found the wait to buy tickets on-sight isn’t too bad. This option also allows you to pick the best day and time when the weather is cooperating and the views will be photo-worthy.

No matter what time of year you transcend the tower, be prepared for strong winds, and dress in layers. Not only will you find breathtaking views from atop the tower, you’ll also find several gift shops, restaurants, and even bathrooms. I must admit I utilized all 3 during my time on the tower!

While back on solid ground, you will likely want to spend some time taking photos of the famous tower from every angle imaginable. I suggest savoring a crepe made by one of the local vendors while basking in awe at the tower…and pinching yourself as you realize you are actually in Paris!

Be sure to stick around until it gets dark so you can enjoy this amazing feat of architecture in all its sparkling glory!

For just a few minutes every hour the Eiffel Tour glitters and shines, reminding us exactly why Paris is known as the City of Lights.

2. Louvre (1st Arr.)

There are literally hundreds of museums in Paris worth checking out. But none are as large or well known as the Louvre.

Lines can be long to enter the Louvre so I suggest buying your ticket online beforehand to save time. Most people enter the museum at the well-known glass pyramid. However, another way to avoid the long lines is to enter the lesser-known entrance by the structure west of the pyramid that looks like a mini Arc de Triomphe. You’re welcome!

Please be aware, you will not be able to see the entire museum in one day. Don’t. Even. Try.

If you are a true art lover or history buff, then you will need to spend several days, possibly weeks, to take in everything the Louvre has to offer. For most people, I suggest spending just a few hours in the massive Louvre. You will get an appreciation for its size, and see some specific pieces of art that truly speak to you, without being completely overwhelmed and your eyes glazing over.

If you are like many tourists, you will want to make a beeline to the Mona Lisa.  Go ahead, no one will judge you! And you should see this infamous painting while in Paris, just be prepared to be underwhelmed.  Take the obligatory selfie with Mona and move along.

Some favorite pieces I suggest checking out include Venus Di Milo, Winged Victory, The Wedding at Cana, and Napolean III Apartments. Be sure to pay the extra 5 euros to get a headset (or download it from the Louvre’s app). This will give you background information on many of the pieces in the Louvre and really make the art come to life.

Invoking your sense of hearing will also help you resist the feeling that all the paintings are starting to run together in your mind. Personally, I like to go into a room in the Louvre and select the piece that speaks to me the most. Then listen to the short audio clip about that particular piece.

Even if you aren’t an art aficionado, you can’t help but leave the Louvre with a new appreciation for the talent and history showcased in this impressive museum.

3. Arc de Triomphe (8th Arr.)

You have likely seen the Arc de Triomphe in pictures or movies. But trust me, you can’t fathom the enormity of this impressive monument until you have seen it in person.

Be careful getting close up to the Arc as you must find the underground tunnel on the backside to safely make your way there. The Arc is in the middle of a gigantic roundabout, with 12 streets funneling into it…so pedestrians beware!

Once safely in the center you will marvel at how big the Arc de Triomphe is and how small you now feel.

The Arc was built between 1806-1836 to commemorate the soldiers who fought for France in the Napoleonic wars. It is situated at the westernmost end of the famed Champs Elysees and provided a grand entrance for the soldiers’ triumphant return home. Many decades later, the tomb of the unknown soldier and the memorial flame were added at the Arc’s base.

You can buy a ticket to go to the top of the Arc, and I hear the views are spectacular. I’ll admit I choose to admire the Arc from ground level and opted instead for the amazing views from the Eiffel Tour.

4. Notre Dame Cathedral (4th Arr.)

Step onto the Ill de la Cite, one of two small islands in the Seine river. Then gaze upon the intricate details of the facade of the Notre Dame Cathedral. To hear some interesting facts about the cathedral and the figures depicted all around the entrance, I recommend listening to Rick Steve’s Historic Paris Walking tour, which includes the Notre Dame Cathedral.

There will likely be a line to enter the cathedral, but that gives you time to take in the beauty on the outside of this historic catholic church. The line will move quickly as there is no entrance fee to visit the main floor of the cathedral.

Keep in mind that you are entering a place of worship, so quiet voices and respectful behavior is expected.

Spend as much time as you like wandering through the first floor, admiring the stained glass, and if you are so inclined, saying a prayer or lighting a candle for a loved one.

While I have not taken the paid tour of the cathedral’s towers, this is a great opportunity to get a first-hand look at the infamous Gargoyles that adorn this magnificent building. Be prepared to climb the 387 steps to the top. This tour is not for the faint of heart!

5. Opera Garnier (9th Arr.)

While the opera isn’t my preferred style of music, I found a tour through this exquisite opera house to be thoroughly enjoyable. Unless you are a fan of the opera, skip purchasing tickets for a performance and instead take the 2 hour guided tour. (Although at present time the Opera Garnier is more likely to showcase ballets instead of operas.)

You can remain in your comfortable travel attire and sensible shoes, yet you will still be able to picture the decadently dressed Parisians of days gone by making their presence known.

Back in the day, the opera house was THE place to be seen.

You will get a sense of how royalty rubbed elbows as you take in the elaborate staircase (reminding me of the one on the Titanic!) and ornate salons.

I won’t even attempt to repeat the history behind how each element of the Opera Garnier, named after its architect, Charles Garnier, was painstakingly selected.  That is better left to an experienced tour guide with a charming french accent.

6. Champs Elysees (8th Arr.)

While it may take a while to perfect your pronunciation of this famous street, it won’t take long at all to fall in love with the Champs Elysees. This is arguably the most famous street in the world.

Your first trip to Paris is not complete without a stroll down the Champs Elysees.

The Champs Elysees forms a straight route between the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre. This impressive boulevard is lined with some of the most famous, high-end stores. From Tiffany and Co. to Gucci to Christian Dior to Louis Vuitton. Even if your travel budget won’t support purchases at these fine retailers, these days you can find lots of budget-friendly shops as well.

And window shopping is free!

The Champs Elysees also features plenty of restaurants at various price levels. Why not break up a busy day of shopping to enjoy a bowl of french onion soup and some quality people-watching!

7. Galleries Lafayette and Printemps (9th Arr.)

When you are ready for some indoor shopping, don’t miss a stroll through these impressive Paris malls. Galleries Lafayette and Printemps are both amazing shopping meccas with a flair that is distinctively different than our American malls.

Gazing up at the beautiful stained glass ceiling of Galleries Lafayette will have you thinking you are back in a museum. You can easily get lost among the seemingly endless floors of fashions, jewelry, home decor, and Parisian nick-knacks.

It’s a shopper’s paradise, for sure!

Be sure to make your way up to the rooftop terrace, 7th floor, for another spectacular view of the city. And if you find yourself in need of a snack or cocktail while you are up there, check out The Cube Bar.

8. Montmartre (18th Arr.)

Venturing outside the city center to Montmartre shouldn’t be missed! Here you will find the Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, known as Sacre Coeur, and get yet another magnificent view of the city.

The highlight of Montmartre for me is Painter’s Square, or Place du Tertre.  Local artists set up their stands and work on their craft to the delight of onlookers.

You will likely be approached by numerous artists wanting to capture your likeness against the Paris skyline. So have your euros and your patience ready while the artist of your choice creates a one-of-a-kind keepsake of your Parisian adventure.

The numerous cafes in Montmartre also provide the ideal spot to rest, grab some nourishment, and get your fill of people-watching.

Venture just a bit beyond Painter’s Square, and you will find the I Love You Wall. Another photo-worthy piece of art, but without the entrance fee. The I Love You Wall showcases the words “I Love You” in 250 different languages.

Just another reason to fall in love with Paris.

9. Moulin Rouge (18th Arr.)

I’ll admit I haven’t seen a show at the Moulin Rouge, but that didn’t stop me from making my way to this iconic building. It is definitely worth a trip to the 18th arrondissement to snap some photos of the famous red windmill.

This infamous cabaret is the birthplace of the Can-Can.

Known for its risque performances, my mom and I opted not to take my daughters inside to see a show! But if you are looking for something a bit more daring than what you will see in the museums and from street artists…just step inside the Moulin Rouge!

10. Shakespeare and Company (6th Arr.)

Across the river from the Notre Dame Cathedral, on the left bank, you will find the most charming bookstore, Shakespeare and Company.

Roam the crowded aisles and peek into the nooks and crannies of this English Language bookstore, filled with all the literary greats. Ponder the fact that authors such as Ernest Hemingway once sat in this very bookstore working on his prose and discussing literature with other esteemed authors.

Shakespeare and Company has a long history of supporting struggling writers by allowing them to sleep on the benches in the store, which double as beds.

Buy any book in the store, and they will stamp it with their famous logo. The perfect keepsake of your trip to Paris!

Now, who is ready to say Bonjour to Paris?!

Any other must-see sites you think should be added to the list? Comment below and share your thoughts on Paris.

Wherever the road takes you, make it a joyous journey,
Traveling Tanya

Pick up Rick Steves’ guide to Paris and start planning your trip to the City of Lights!

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