Best Things to Do in Paris

Getting Oriented

The capital of France, Paris, sits in the country's north, encompassing the twists and turns of the romantic Seine River. With 20 distinct arrondissements (boroughs), the city's list of things to do, see, and experience is almost endless. The major sites sit across the city in different areas, so you can enjoy a varied tour simply by hopping from the Eifel Tower in the 7th arrondissement, to the Arc de Triomphe in the 8th, Montmartre in the 18th, and Notre Dame in the 4th. But, of course, you can also get a more authentic experience by diving deep into the city's history, gastronomy, and traditions.

The phrase "Paris is always a good idea" is certainly true, as you can visit France at any time of the year and enjoy your trip! Even visiting in the cold month of January has its perks, such as combining Paris with the French Riviera to the south.

Explore the Neighborhoods

The neighborhoods, districts, and arrondissements of Paris define the city. Paris shifts from one area to another, giving you stately, bohemian, historical, business, traditional, or artsy vibes.

Montmartre & Sacré Coeur Walking Tour

One of the most popular neighborhoods in Paris is Montmartre, and that's because the district shines with historic charm, bohemian vibes, and some of the best views in the city. Take a stroll through Montmartre, stopping to visit sites such as the stunning Sacré Coeur and the infamous Moulin Rouge. Discover delicious food locales, artsy shops, trendy boutiques, and historic sites, such as Picasso's studio. Follow the footsteps of Picasso, Van Gogh, Renoir, and others while strolling along cobblestone streets and through leafy public squares. Read More

Explore Le Marais: Cheese Shops, Museums, & Markets

Rivaling Montmartre for Paris's favorite district is the hip neighborhood of Le Marais. Fuel yourself with a traditional breakfast, then hit the streets of Marais on foot, discovering history dating back to the 13th century. Walk up to Haut-Marais, or Upper Marais, a section of the neighborhood that transformed former working-class factories into chic shops and galleries. Here you'll meet a professional cheesemaker for a tasting of traditional cheeses and regional wine. End the day discovering museums, markets, and shops! Read More

Champagne Lunch & Saint-Germain-des-Prés District Tour

You can't visit Paris without indulging in French champagne, so you may as well pair the experience with lunch and a stroll through the legendary Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood. This area was home to many renowned artists, writers, and intellectuals, including Benjamin Franklin, Ernest Hemingway, Simone de Beauvoir, and Pablo Picasso. Before your lunch and champagne tasting, visit sites such as the 6th-century Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés, famous literary cafes like Café de Flore, and Pont des Arts bridge. Read More

Taste the Food

If you're most excited about the food in Paris, you're in good hands. Peruse markets, learn how to cook authentic dishes, and taste some of the more unusual bites of the city.

French Cooking Class in Les Batignolles

Discover why French cuisine has a renowned, worldwide reputation by participating in a hands-on cooking class in the lively and authentic Les Batignolles neighborhood. You'll start with a stroll along Rue de Levis, stopping at markets to buy your fresh ingredients. Then follow your host back to their kitchen in a traditional Parisian Haussmann-style apartment, where you'll learn the secrets behind traditional French recipes. Enjoy your meal as you listen to stories from your host. Read More

Sample France's Unusual Cuisine

French cuisine may be a world favorite, but some dishes are a bit unique and unusual. Try some of this traditional fare while learning about its history and how it impacted French gastronomy. Your host will take you through tastings of snails, frog legs, duck liver, and more, all while divulging the secrets behind these infamous dishes! You might be apprehensive at first, but in the end, you'll look at French cuisine in an entirely new light! Read More

Learn the History

The history of Paris runs deep, but the tumultuous 20th century impacted the city in an infamous modern time. Learn about Paris's occupation, resistance, and liberation during WWII and visit one of the city's most famous monuments.

WWII History Tour

If you're a history buff, France might be synonymous with the country's most turbulent time in the 20th century: Paris's occupation, resistance, and liberation during WWII. Learn about the history of Paris, its citizens, and its resistance forces between 1940 and 1944 while walking to the era's most important sites. Some highlights include the Place de la Concorde, Champs-Elysées, and the Opéra Garnier. Read More  

Arc de Triomphe Rooftop

One of the city's best views is atop the historical and political monument, the Arc de Triomphe. Sitting at the center of the Étoile (star) roundabout, you'll view all 12 avenues fanning out across the city. You'll also learn about the significance of the monument, including its four pillars with sculptural groups, six reliefs depicting important historical scenes, and, of course, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, honoring those who died in WWI. Read More

How to Craft the Perfect Paris Itinerary

With so much to see, do, and experience, you could easily spend weeks in Paris! Many visitors make the French capital the focus of their trip, spending their time enjoying the city and/or using it as a hub for day trips. However, Paris also fits well into other itineraries, pairing nicely with visits to Normandy and Brittany in Northwest France or the Rhone Valley for wine, the French Alps for hiking, or Provence for lavender. 

How many days to spend in Paris depends on what you want to do! Although you could do a whirlwind tour in one day, try to give yourself at least 3 full days in the city to truly enjoy your time. If you'd like to use Paris as a hub for day trips to places like the Château de Versailles, Chartres, or the Champagne Region, plan for at least 5 or 6 days. And when adding areas like the French Riviera in the south, give yourself one week or more. 

Past kimkim travelers have enjoyed the following itineraries that include experiences in Paris:

• Road Trip through Western France: Paris & the Loire Valley - 5 Days
• Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, & Brittany - 7 Days
• French Panorama: Paris, Marseille & Nice - 10 Days