Olympics 2024: Explore Paris Attractions
Explore Paris, the enchanting capital of France!
Known as the “City of Light,” Paris is a dream destination with something for everyone.
Here, you can explore world-famous museums like the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa, and the Musée d’Orsay, filled with stunning Impressionist paintings.
Don’t miss the beautiful gardens and parks, such as the Luxembourg Gardens, perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
For families, the city offers plenty of kid-friendly attractions like the Cité des Sciences.
This one of the largest science museums in Europe! And Disneyland Paris is just a short ride from the city center.
Come and discover all the magic that Paris has to offer!
For more Olympic information:
- Paris Olympics 2024: Spirit of the Games & Local Attractions
- Paris Hidden Gems: Charming Streets, Parks and More
- The Thrill of Olympic Archery: 2024 Insight
- Paris 2024 Top Olympic Archery Contenders
- History of Archery in the Olympic Games
Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Paris
Paris, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, offers numerous tourist attractions spread across its districts (arrondissements).
Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)
- Location: 7th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Breathtaking view of Paris; famous landmark of Paris
- More info: https://www.toureiffel.paris/en
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the world.
It was built in 1889 for the World’s Fair.
Standing at 1,083 feet tall, it was the tallest man-made structure at the time.
Visitors can go up to three levels.
The first two have restaurants and shops.
The top level offers a breathtaking view of Paris.
At night, the tower lights up with thousands of sparkling lights, creating a magical sight.
It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Paris, showing off the city’s beauty from high above.
This iconic symbol of Paris is not just a feat of engineering but also offers breathtaking views of the city from its various observation decks.
Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre)
- Location: 1st arrondissement
- Unique Feature: World’s largest art museum
- Museum Hours: Open 9am to 6pm; extended hours on Wednesdays and Fridays 9am to 9pm
- Closed: Every Tuesday and holidays
- More info: https://www.louvre.fr/en
- Olympic info: Activities at La Concorde
The Louvre Museum is the world’s largest art museum and a historic landmark in Paris.
It was originally a royal palace but became a public museum during the French Revolution.
The museum is famous for its glass pyramid entrance, designed by architect I. M. Pei.
Arguably the world’s most famous museum, the Louvre houses thousands of works from various civilizations and historical periods.
Inside, it houses thousands of artworks, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
The Louvre’s collections cover art and artifacts from ancient civilizations to mid-19th century masterpieces.
It attracts millions of visitors every year, making it one of the most visited museums in the world. This is the most visited art museum in the world.
Visitors can spend hours exploring the vast halls filled with exquisite art from around the globe.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris
- Location: 4th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and gargoyles
- Hours: CLOSED to the PUBLIC due to reconstruction
- More info: https://www.notredamedeparis.fr/visiter/voir-la-cathedrale/
The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the most famous cathedrals in the world.
It’s located on the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris.
This cathedral is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, well-known for its detailed stone gargoyles, stunning rose windows, and tall spires.
Construction of Notre-Dame started in the 12th century and took over 200 years to complete.
It has been a site of major religious and historical events, including the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte.
In 2019, a massive fire damaged much of the cathedral, including its roof and spire.
Reconstruction efforts are ongoing, and it remains closed to the public.
However, you can still admire its exterior, including the flying buttresses that support its walls, and the gargoyles that watch over the city.
Notre-Dame is not just a church but a symbol of Paris.
It has inspired countless stories, like Victor Hugo’s novel “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.”
It continues to capture the hearts of people from around the world.
Montmartre
- Location: 18th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: The Sacré-Cœur Basilica
- More info: https://www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com/en/
Montmartre is a famous hill and arrondissement in Paris.
It’s known for its artistic history and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica at its summit.
This area was once a favourite spot for famous artists like Picasso and Van Gogh.
Montmartre feels like a small village within the city, with its narrow, winding streets and cozy cafes.
The Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur is a white domed church that can be seen from all over Paris.
Visitors can climb to the top for a spectacular view of the city.
The area is also home to the bustling Place du Tertre, where artists paint and sell their work outdoors.
Montmartre’s charm is in its lively atmosphere and the sense of history you feel walking its streets.
It’s also famous for the Moulin Rouge, the historic cabaret where the can-can dance originated.
Montmartre offers a unique blend of art, history, and stunning views, making it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Paris.
Sainte-Chapelle
- Location: 1st arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Stunning stained glass windows
- More info: https://www.sainte-chapelle.fr/en
Sainte-Chapelle is a beautiful chapel in Paris, known for its breathtaking stained glass windows.
It’s located on the Île de la Cité, close to Notre-Dame Cathedral.
The chapel was built in the 13th century by King Louis IX to house precious Christian relics, including what was believed to be the Crown of Thorns.
The most outstanding feature of Sainte-Chapelle is its 15 large glass panels and a rose window.
These windows display biblical scenes in vivid colors, making the interior look like it’s filled with light and color.
The effect is stunning, especially on sunny days when the light streams through.
Sainte-Chapelle is divided into two levels: the lower chapel, which served as a parish church for the palace staff, and the upper chapel, which held the relics.
Today, it’s not only a major tourist attraction but also a venue for classical music concerts.
This chapel is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and is often considered one of the most exquisite religious buildings in the world.
Musée d’Orsay
- Location: 7th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Housed in a former railway station
- Hours: Open 9:30am to 6pm; open until 9:30pm on Thursdays; CLOSED MONDAYS
- More info: https://www.musee-orsay.fr/en
The Musée d’Orsay is a famous museum in Paris, located on the left bank of the Seine River.
It is unique because it is set in an old railway station with a beautiful Beaux-Arts architecture.
The museum specializes in French art from the 19th century and early 20th century.
Visitors can see paintings, sculptures, and furniture.
The museum is famous for its large collection of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces.
You can find works by artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir.
The Musée d’Orsay also offers stunning views of Paris from its upper floors.
The museum’s main hall, with its grand arches and clock, is especially breathtaking.
It’s a favourite spot for photographers. The Musée d’Orsay is not just a place to see art; it’s an artwork itself, with a unique setting that enhances the experience of its visitors.
Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde
- Location: 8th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Arc de Triomphe is a French national symbol
- Arc de Triomphe: Open 10am to 11pm
- More info: https://www.paris-arc-de-triomphe.fr/en
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in the world.
It stretches from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Known for its theatres, cafes, and luxury shops, it’s a major spot for tourists and Parisians alike.
Place de la Concorde is at one end of the Champs-Élysées. It’s the largest public square in Paris.
Famous for its giant Egyptian obelisk and stunning fountains, it’s full of history. During the French Revolution, this square was a site for the guillotine.
Walking along the Champs-Élysées, you’ll see lots of fancy stores where people shop for high-end brands.
The avenue is also great for people watching and enjoying a cup of coffee at a sidewalk cafe.
The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the other end of the Champs-Élysées.
It was built to honor the soldiers who fought for France, especially during the Napoleonic Wars.
You can climb to the top of the Arc for a fantastic view of Paris.
The structure is massive and beautifully detailed with sculptures and inscriptions.
Every year, the Champs-Élysées is part of the Tour de France’s final stages.
At Christmas, it’s beautifully lit up. The street and its landmarks are symbols of Paris’s history and grandeur, making it a must-visit for anyone coming to the city.
The blend of history, art, and modern luxury makes it a unique attraction.
The Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
- Location: 6th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Beautiful public park
- More info: Paris Je T’Aime – Jardin du Luxembourg
The Luxembourg Gardens, also known as Jardin du Luxembourg, is a beautiful public park in the heart of Paris.
It covers 25 hectares and is known for its lush lawns, tree-lined promenades, and flowerbeds.
The park is famous for the French Senate, which meets in the Luxembourg Palace located within the gardens.
Kids and families enjoy its large playground, vintage carousel, and pony rides.
There’s also a large pond where children can sail model boats.
For sports enthusiasts, there are tennis courts and paths for jogging.
The garden hosts free photography exhibitions and concerts, making it a cultural spot too.
Art lovers will appreciate over 100 statues, monuments, and fountains scattered throughout the park.
The Medici Fountain, built in 1620, is a romantic spot often visited by couples.
The Luxembourg Gardens is a favourite relaxation and leisure spot in Paris, combining natural beauty with art and history.
The Panthéon
- Location: 5th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Foucault’s pendulum
- More info: https://www.paris-pantheon.fr/en
The Panthéon in Paris started as a church but is now a famous mausoleum holding the remains of distinguished French citizens.
It sits in the Latin Quarter of Paris, known for its intellectual history.
The building’s design is neoclassical, with a large dome and columns like those seen in ancient Greece and Rome.
Inside, you can see Foucault’s pendulum, an experiment that demonstrates the Earth’s rotation.
It’s also famous for its crypt, where heroes of France like Voltaire, Rousseau, Marie Curie, and Victor Hugo are buried.
Their graves honour their contributions to science, literature, and philosophy.
The Panthéon is not only a resting place for great people but also a monument celebrating French national pride and achievements.
Visitors appreciate the stunning architecture and the deep sense of history that fills the halls.
It’s a place of inspiration, reflection, and respect, showcasing the legacy of France’s most influential figures.
The Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles)
- Location: Outside of Paris; in the town of Versailles
- Unique Feature: Beautiful gardens and Hall of Mirrors
- Hours: Open 9am to 6:30pm; CLOSED MONDAYS
- More info: https://en.chateauversailles.fr/
The Palace of Versailles, also known as Château de Versailles, is a grand royal residence built by King Louis XIV in the 17th century.
It’s famous for its large size, stunning gardens, and the Hall of Mirrors.
The palace started as a hunting lodge and grew into a massive complex with over 700 rooms.
It showcases the power and wealth of the French monarchy before the French Revolution.
Visitors can explore the ornate rooms, including the King’s and Queen’s apartments.
Stroll through the extensive gardens filled with fountains, statues, and perfectly trimmed hedges.
The Hall of Mirrors is especially breathtaking, with 357 mirrors reflecting the light through arched windows.
The palace is not just a museum; it’s a symbol of royal extravagance and artistic achievement.
It’s a must-visit to understand the splendor of France’s royal past.
Interesting Hidden Gems
Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève
- Location: 5th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Oldest library in Paris with over two million books
- Regular hours: 10am to 10pm
- More info: https://www.catacombes.paris.fr/en
The Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève is one of Paris’s oldest libraries.
It stands out with its stunning architecture, especially the large reading room’s iron and glass ceiling.
Inside, Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève is as impressive as the outside.
The library holds over two million books, covering many subjects from science to the arts.
Its shelves are filled with old and new knowledge, making it a treasure trove for curious minds.
Many students from nearby universities come here to find rare books that can’t be found anywhere else.
The library also has a special atmosphere that makes studying feel special.
The large windows let in natural light, brightening the vast space and creating a peaceful environment.
Visitors often feel like they’re stepping back in time, surrounded by the history of all the scholars who have studied there before.
This library is not just a place to read; it’s a place to connect with the past and inspire future learning.
People come not only to read but also to admire its beauty and historical significance.
The Paris Catacombs
- Location: 14th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Abandoned quarry tunnels under the city
- Tour duration: 1.5 hours
- Tour group size: 20 people maximum
- More info: https://www.catacombes.paris.fr/en
The Paris Catacombs are an extensive network of underground ossuaries in Paris
It was the a solution to the city’s overflowing cemeteries in the late 18th century.
Officially known as “les Carrières de Paris” (the Quarries of Paris), these subterranean tunnels were originally limestone quarries.
By the end of the 18th century, Paris faced a major public health problem due to overcrowded cemeteries.
The solution was to transfer the remains underground.
In 1786, the transfer of bones began.
The remains from the largest cemetery, Les Innocents, were moved first.
Millions of Parisians’ bones were moved into the abandoned quarry tunnels.
Today, the Paris Catacombs stretch over 200 miles. Only a small portion is open to the public.
The tour offers a unique and somewhat eerie glimpse into a hidden part of the city’s history.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
- Location: 20th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Famous gravesites
- More info: Paris Je T’aime – Culture
Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest cemetery in Paris and one of the most visited in the world.
It opened in 1804 and has over 70,000 burial plots.
Famous people like the singer Jim Morrison, writer Oscar Wilde, and composer Frédéric Chopin are buried here.
The cemetery is known for its beautiful tombstones, statues, and mausoleums.
It’s like an open-air museum filled with art and history. Visitors often come to pay their respects and explore the quiet, tree-lined paths.
Each grave tells a story, making it a fascinating place for history buffs and those interested in the lives of famous figures.
Père Lachaise also offers a peaceful retreat from the busy city, with its lush greenery and serene atmosphere.
Explore Paris Top Museums
In Paris, young people under the age of 26, as well as students and teachers, have the chance to enter many museums and monuments for free!
Other museums offer free services on the first Sunday of the month.
Here are some of the top museums in Paris that are a must-visit:
Top Museums in Paris Left Bank
Musée Rodin
- Location: 7th arrondissement
- Unique Feature: Works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin
- More info: https://www.musee-rodin.fr/en
The Musée Rodin is a museum in Paris dedicated to the works of the French sculptor Auguste Rodin.
It’s housed in the Hôtel Biron, a beautiful old mansion.
Visitors can see famous sculptures like “The Thinker” and “The Kiss.”
The museum also has a lovely garden where many of Rodin’s sculptures are displayed outdoors.
This setting lets people see the artwork in natural light.
Inside, the museum holds thousands of Rodin’s drawings, photographs, and personal items.
It’s a great place to learn about Rodin’s life and how he created his art.
Other Left Bank Museums
- Musée d’Orsay – 7th arrondissement (see Top 10 Tourist Attractions)
- Musée du Quai Branly Jacques Chirac – 7th arrondissement
- Near the Eiffel Tower, this museum features indigenous art, cultures, and civilizations from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.
- Musée de l’Armée – 7th arrondissement
- Housed at Les Invalides, this museum holds a vast collection of military artifacts, uniforms, and weaponry from various time periods.
- It also has the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Top Museums in Paris Right Bank
- Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre) – 1st arrondissement (see Top 10 Tourist Attractions)
- Musée de l’Orangerie – 1st arrondissement
- Located in the Jardin des Tuileries, this museum is famous for housing eight large Water Lilies murals by Claude Monet.
- It also has other works by renowned impressionist and post-impressionist painters by Cézanne, Matisse, Modigliani, and Picasso.
- Musée Picasso – 3rd arrondissement
- This museum is dedicated to the works of Pablo Picasso.
- It contains more than 5,000 works of the artist, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings.
- Including paintings, sculptures, drawings, and ceramics, making it one of the most complete repositories of his work.
- Musée Carnavalet – 3rd arrondissement
- This museum focuses on the history of Paris
- It features collections that include artifacts, photographs, and works of art that trace the city’s history from its origins to the present day.
- Centre Pompidou – 4th arrondissement
- Known for its radical architectural design, the Centre Pompidou houses the National Museum of Modern Art.
- It is the largest museum for modern art in Europe.
- This cultural hub features a vast public library and the National Museum of Modern Art.
Some Notable Free Museums in Paris
- Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace at Le Bourget: Calling all travelers and aviation enthusiasts! See the dozens of airplanes and rockets up close. NOTE: Museum (excluding exhibits) is free to under 26. (15th arrondissement)
- Musée Aéronautique et Spatial Safran: This is an unique museum paying tribute to the innovation French engine-makers. (outside of Paris)
- Musée Cernuschi: This is the museum of Asian arts in Paris, tracing the history of peoples since Neolithic times. (8th arrondissement)
- Collège des Bernardins: This is one of the oldest medieval buildings in Paris. (5th arrondissement)
- The Petit Palais (home to the Musées des Beaux-Arts de la Ville de Paris): Designed by Charles Girault for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, this is a true architectural masterpiece. (8th arrondissement)
- BNF Richelieu: This site is the historic birthplace of the Bibliothèque nationale de France. It has housed collections of royal documents since 1721. (2nd arrondissement)
Each offers a unique perspective, making them crucial stops for any visitor to Paris.
Explore Paris Top Parks or Gardens
Paris is famous for its beautifully designed parks and gardens, which offer serene escapes from the bustling city life.
Top Parks and Gardens (Left Bank)
- Jardin des Plantes – 5th arrondissement
- The main botanical garden in France.
- It includes several historic buildings such as the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle (Natural History Museum).
- Also has greenhouses, a small zoo, and an Alpine garden.
- Jardin du Luxembourg – 6th arrondissement (see Top 10 Tourist Attractions)
- Champs de Mars – 7th arrondissement
- A large public greenspace stretching between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire.
- It is a popular spot for picnics and offers fantastic photo opportunities of the tower.
- Parc Montsouris – 14th arrondissement
- This park is designed in the English style and features a lake, waterfalls, and a variety of trees and shrubs.
- It’s a tranquil spot ideal for relaxation.
Top Parks and Gardens (Right Bank)
Other Right Bank Parks and Gardens
- Tuileries Garden –1st arrondissement (see Top 10 Tourist Attraction)
- Parc Monceau – 8th arrondissement
- This park is famous for its English-style gardens, curved walkways, statues, and a collection of architectural follies.
- Including a small Egyptian pyramid and a Chinese fort.
- Bois de Vincennes – 12th arrondissement
- Located on the eastern side of the city, this is the largest public park in Paris.
- It includes four lakes, a zoo, a botanical garden, and the Château de Vincennes, a former royal residence.
- Bois de Boulogne – 16th arrondissement
- On the western edge of Paris, this large public park offers extensive walking paths, lakes, and gardens.
- It also houses the Jardin d’Acclimatation, a children’s amusement park with a zoo and various rides.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont – 19th arrondissement
- Known for its steep hills and dramatic cliffs.
- The park features a large artificial lake, waterfalls, and a temple perched atop a cliff.
- It offers some of the best views of Paris.
Child Friendly Options in Paris
Paris is a fantastic city for families with children, offering a variety of kid-friendly activities that cater to different interests.
Left Bank – Child Friendly Attractions
- Natural History Museum (Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle) – 5th arrondissement
- Located in the Jardin des Plantes
- This museum complex includes the Gallery of Evolution, the Mineralogy Museum, the Paleontology Museum, and a small zoo.
- Luxembourg Gardens – 6th arrondissement (see Top 10 Tourist Attraction)
- Puppet Shows in Luxembourg Gardens (6th arrondissement) and Parc Montsouris – 14th arrondissement
- Traditional French puppet shows, known as Guignol, are a treat for children.
- They are often performed in these beautiful settings.
Right Bank – Child Friendly Attractions
- Paris Je T’Aime – Boat Tour on the Seine: (1st and 4th arrondissement)
- Companies like Bateaux Parisiens offer sightseeing cruises on the Seine.
- These can be a relaxing way to see the city’s major landmarks without the fatigue of walking.
- Palais de la Découverte: (8th arrondissement)
- Part of the Grand Palais, this science museum offers fascinating exhibits.
- Including an astronomy section and live science demonstrations.
- Musée Grévin: (9th arrondissement)
- A wax museum that features figures of international celebrities and historical figures.
- More than 500 characters are arranged in scenes from the history of France and modern life.
- Providing a fun and photographic experience for kids.
- Paris Zoological Park (Parc Zoologique de Paris): (12th arrondissement)
- The zoo showcases a variety of animals in naturalistic habitats.
- Jardin d’Acclimatation: (16th arrondissement)
- This amusement park and garden offers a range of activities.
- Including pony rides, puppet shows, a small farm, and updated rides and attractions.
- Aquarium de Paris – Cinéaqua: (16th arrondissement)
- Situated at the Trocadéro.
- This aquarium is home to over 10,000 marine animals and offers two cinema screens.
- Montmartre Funicular: (18th arrondissement)
- For a unique mode of transport, take the funicular up to Montmartre.
- Kids will enjoy the ride, and you can explore Sacré-Cœur.
- Le Petit Train de Montmartre: (18th arrondissement)
- This small train offers guided tours around the Montmartre district.
- It can be fun for kids and a good way for them to learn about the area.
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie: (19th arrondissement)
- Located in Parc de la Villette, this is the biggest science museum in Europe.
- It features interactive exhibits on science and technology, including a planetarium, submarine, and special areas for younger children.
Other Child Friendly Attractions (Outside of Paris)
- Disneyland Paris: Located outside the city, Disneyland Paris is a dream come true for many children, featuring rides, shows, and character in two theme parks.
- Exploradôme: This interactive museum located in Vitry-sur-Seine focuses on science, multimedia, and sustainable development with lots of hands-on activities for children.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through Paris, remember it’s a city brimming with wonders.
Visit top museums like the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, where art comes to life.
Relax in stunning parks and gardens, such as the serene Luxembourg Gardens.
For families, Paris is a playground. Explore the fascinating Cité des Sciences, and don’t forget the magical experience of Disneyland Paris.
Whether you’re an art lover, a food enthusiast, or looking for family fun, Paris promises unforgettable adventures for everyone.
So, pack your bags and set off to explore the captivating charm of Paris!
