Paris
France
Attractions & Events in Paris
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Paris, France
Top Attractions
Bois de Boulogne
Large public park with lakes, gardens, playgrounds, and the Louis Vuitton Foundation art museum.
Tips: Ideal for cycling, jogging, or rowing. Family-friendly with picnic areas.
Centre Pompidou
Modern art museum and cultural center known for its distinctive architecture.
Tips: Great for contemporary art lovers. Rooftop offers panoramic views.
Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe
Grand avenue lined with shops, cafes, and theaters, capped by the monumental Arc de Triomphe.
Tips: Climb the Arc for sweeping city views. Best visited in the evening for vibrant street life.
Eiffel Tower
Iconic iron lattice tower offering panoramic views of Paris from its observation decks.
Tips: Book tickets online to avoid long queues. Best views at sunset or night when the tower sparkles.
Le Marais
Trendy neighborhood known for its boutique shops, cafes, historic sites, and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene.
Tips: Ideal for shopping, people-watching, and casual dining. Many museums are closed on Mondays.
Louvre Museum
World’s largest art museum, home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of other masterpieces.
Tips: Closed on Tuesdays. Arrive early to avoid crowds. Free admission on the first Saturday of each month.
Luxembourg Gardens
Beautifully landscaped gardens with fountains, statues, playgrounds, and the French Senate building.
Tips: Great for families and picnics. Chairs are available to relax by the pond.
Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Hilltop neighborhood with a bohemian vibe; features the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica and artists' square.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb. Visit early morning or late evening for fewer crowds.
Moulin Rouge
Legendary cabaret offering flamboyant evening shows and dinner experiences.
Tips: Book tickets well in advance. Dress code is smart casual or formal.
Musée d’Orsay
Museum housed in a former railway station, famous for its collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
Tips: Closed on Mondays. Free entry on the first Sunday of the month. Audio guides available.
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Gothic cathedral famed for its architecture, stained glass windows, and gargoyles.
Tips: Currently under restoration, but the exterior and nearby park are accessible for photos.
Opéra Garnier
Sumptuous 19th-century opera house with lavish interiors and guided tours.
Tips: Check the schedule for performances. Guided tours available in multiple languages.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
Famous cemetery where Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, and Edith Piaf are buried.
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes. Maps available at the entrance to locate famous graves.
Rue Cler Market
Charming pedestrian street with open-air markets, bakeries, cheese shops, and cafes.
Tips: Visit in the morning for the freshest produce and lively atmosphere. Closed Sunday afternoons and Mondays.
Seine River Cruises
Boat tours offering unique views of Paris’s landmarks, especially beautiful at night.
Tips: Book a dinner cruise for a romantic evening. Dress warmly for evening rides.
Events & Festivals
Paris Marathon
An annual marathon attracting runners from around the world, covering a scenic route through Paris's iconic landmarks.
When: April
Tips: If participating, register well in advance. Spectators should plan their viewing spots early and be aware of road closures on race day.
Foire de Paris
A major retail event showcasing a wide range of products, from home goods to international cuisine, held annually since 1904.
When: April to May
Tips: Allocate a full day to explore the extensive exhibits. Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
Christmas Markets
Festive markets set up throughout Paris, offering holiday treats, crafts, and gifts, creating a magical atmosphere during the holiday season.
When: December
Tips: Visit in the evening to enjoy the twinkling lights and festive ambiance. Keep an eye on your belongings, as markets can be crowded.
Paris Carnival
A vibrant annual festival featuring parades, costumes, and street performances, celebrating Parisian culture and traditions.
When: February
Tips: Check the parade route in advance and arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Be prepared for large crowds and festive street parties.
Paris Fashion Week
A prestigious biannual event showcasing the latest trends in haute couture and ready-to-wear fashion from renowned designers worldwide.
When: February/March and September/October
Tips: Access to main shows is typically by invitation; however, some events and exhibitions are open to the public. Book accommodations early, as the city becomes particularly busy during these periods.
Bastille Day
France's National Day commemorating the French Revolution, marked by a grand military parade on the Champs-Élysées, fireworks at the Eiffel Tower, and various festivities throughout Paris.
When: July
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the parade and fireworks. Be aware of large crowds and increased security measures during the celebrations.
Fête de la Musique
An annual music festival celebrating the summer solstice with free concerts and performances across the city, featuring a diverse range of musical genres.
When: June
Tips: Explore different neighborhoods to experience a variety of musical styles. Public transportation may be crowded, so plan your travel accordingly.
Paris Jazz Festival
A summer-long festival held in the Parc Floral, featuring performances by international jazz artists in a beautiful botanical garden setting.
When: June to July
Tips: Bring a picnic and enjoy the concerts in the open-air setting. Some performances may require tickets, so check the schedule in advance.
Nuit Blanche
An all-night arts festival where museums, galleries, and cultural institutions open their doors for free, featuring art installations and performances throughout the city.
When: October
Tips: Dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking and standing for extended periods. Plan your route to prioritize must-see installations.
European Heritage Days
A weekend where historic monuments and sites, many of which are usually closed to the public, open their doors for free visits and special events.
When: September
Tips: Plan your visits to popular sites early, as they can attract large crowds. Some locations may require advance reservations.