In short: what to see and what to book in advance
- Five must-see attractions: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Palace of Versailles and a cruise on the Seine River.
- Rule of thumb for cards: Book for the main sites at least two to three weeks in advance. The Eiffel Tower and Disneyland run out of stock even earlier than that.
- The Eiffel Tower trick: When there are no elevator tickets, the stair tickets to the 2nd floor are almost always available, cost less and save the line.
- Eiffel Tower: Trocadero or Bir-Hakeim stations, visit time two to three hours. It is best to arrive about half an hour before sunset.
- The Victory Gate: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile station, about an hour and a half visit. You can only get there via the underground passage, and there is no elevator to the top.
- The invalid: Invalides or Varenne stations, two to four hours. Ticket includes Napoleon's tomb and the Army Museum.
- How the page is arranged: Monuments, museums, attractions for children and families, nightlife and romance, cruises and buses, gardens and parks, cemeteries, and attractions by neighborhood.
- Museum ticket: At the end of the page there is a comparison between purchasing tickets separately and a museum ticket, alongside a questions and answers section.
When I visit Paris, my favorite thing to do is simply stroll through its streets and discover its secrets. However, with all due respect to walking, there are quite a few museums, monuments, and other attractions in Paris that it would be a shame not to visit. On this page, you will find the most popular attractions in Paris, ones that you must visit at least once in your life. However, even if you are an advanced Francophile and this is not your first or second visit to the City of Lights, don't worry, because you can find links here to pages that also deal with lesser-known attractions. In short, you will find attractions here for every type of traveler and of course the option to buy tickets for them in advance (highly recommended, especially for popular attractions), so let's get started and find the attractions that suit you.
What should you see in Paris?
Mark what interests you, and I'll put together a list for you with tickets and traveler information.
What type of attractions are you interested in?
You can mark as many as you want. Without marking at all, you will get a selection of all kinds.
The main attractions in Paris that you should not miss on your first visit are the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre Museum , the Arc de Triomphe , the Palace of Versailles , and a cruise on the Seine River . It is highly recommended to book tickets for these sites at least two to three weeks in advance to avoid long lines at the box office and to avoid disappointment.
🏆 4 attractions that must be booked in advance
Eiffel Tower
The eternal symbol of ParisTickets sell out weeks in advance.
💡 For tickets including the summit, click here >
Arc de Triomphe
The most beautiful view of the Champs Elysees. A must go up to the roof!
Palace of Versailles
The most magnificent palace in France. Don't miss the Hall of Mirrors.
Disneyland Paris + Transportation
The most convenient way to Disney: an entrance ticket and transportation from the city center.
Tickets for the Eiffel Tower elevators sell out months in advance. But here's a trick for Francophiles: tickets to take the stairs to the 2nd floor are almost always available, cost significantly less, and save you the crazy lines for the elevator. And between us? It's a much more special experience (and you lose weight along the way!).
🏛️ Must-see monuments
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Eiffel Tower
Iconic panoramic view, especially romantic at sunset. Please note: long lines for the elevator (book in advance!).
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Trocadéro or Bir-Hakeim
- ️ Visit time: 2-3 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: It is best to arrive about half an hour before sunset.
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Arc de Triomphe
The most beautiful view of the Champs Elysees, open until late. Please note: there is no elevator to the top (stairs only).
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile
- ️ Visit time: an hour and a half
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Cross to it only through the underground passage.
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Palais des Invalides
Napoleon's impressive tomb and a fascinating military museum. A huge complex that requires a relatively long visit.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Invalides or Varenne
- ️ Visit time: 2-4 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: The ticket also includes the excellent Army Museum.
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To all monuments
Thought you've seen it all? Paris hides architectural gems around every corner. Here's the full list, including the secrets most tourists miss.
🎨 Museums
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The Louvre Museum
The largest museum in the world (Mona Lisa) with an unparalleled collection. Very busy – must book in advance.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Palais Royal
- ️ Visit time: At least half a day
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Enter from the underground entrance of Carrousel Mall.
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Musee d'Orsay
Impressionist collection (Van Gogh, Monet) located in a beautiful train station. The line at the entrance can be long.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Solférino
- ️ Visit time: 2-3 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Go up to the 5th floor for a picture with the giant clock.
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Rodin Museum
A magical and relaxing sculpture garden, less crowded than the Louvre. Most of the museum is open air (weather dependent).
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Varenne
- ️ Visit time: 1.5 – 2 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: On a beautiful day, you can settle for a discounted ticket for the gardens alone.
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Center Pompidou
Modern art, unique architecture and a great view from the top floor. Please note: some of the galleries are under renovation.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Rambuteau or Les Halles
- ️ Visit time: 2 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: The view from above is worth a visit even if you don't go into the exhibitions.
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To all museums
The Louvre is a must, but the real magic lies in the intimate museums. Discover the art treasures that captured my heart.
🎢 Attractions for children and families
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Disneyland Paris
The most famous park in Europe with excellent facilities and encounters with characters. Requires a full day outside of Paris.
- (I.e. reaching: RER A to Marne-la-Vallée station
- ️ Visit time: a whole day
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Download the official app to track the queues.
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Disney + Transportation
Peace of mind with round-trip transportation and no need for trains. Please note: return times are fixed in advance.
- (I.e. reaching: Convenient pickup from central Paris
- ️ comfort: Perfect for families with little ones
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Saves you from having to drag yourself around on crowded trains at the end of the day.
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Asterix Park
Extreme roller coasters and an authentic French atmosphere. Less familiar to Israeli children than Disney.
- (I.e. reaching: Shuttle from Paris or RER B + bus
- ️ Visit time: a whole day
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Perfect for teenagers who love roller coasters.
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Parc des Princes (PSG)
A must for football fans: a tour of the locker rooms and on the pitch. Not held on match days.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Porte de Saint-Cloud
- ️ Visit time: about an hour and a half
- 💡 Zvi's tip: The tour includes a visit to the interview and VIP areas.
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For more children's attractions
Who said Paris is for adults only? From magical carousels to mind-blowing science museums – here's how to make little ones fall in love with the city.
Coming to Paris for a special occasion? I've separately compiled a complete guide to a honeymoon in Paris , with hotels, restaurants, and a seven-day itinerary.
🌙 Nightlife and Romance
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Romantic dinner cruise
Magical atmosphere with live music and spectacular night views. Price is relatively high for a regular cruise.
- (I.e. Exit from: Eiffel Tower area (Pont de l'Alma)
- ️ Leisure time: About two and a half hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Invest in a window seat for the perfect experience.
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Moulin Rouge + Cruise + Transportation
An all-inclusive package for a perfect evening including half a bottle of champagne. Elegant dress code required.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Blanche (Line 2)
- ️ Leisure time: Approximately 4 hours (show + cruise)
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Leave your flip-flops at the hotel, there is a strict dress code!
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Private night tour
Tour in a luxury vehicle with a driver and a customized itinerary. Significantly more expensive than a tourist bus.
- (I.e. reaching: Personal hotel key collection
- ️ Leisure time: about two hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: The convenient way to see the city glow in winter without freezing.
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For more nightlife
When the sun goes down, the 'City of Lights' truly comes alive. Cabaret , jazz clubs or just a romantic stroll? Here are my recommendations for an unforgettable night.
⛴️ In motion (cruise and bus)
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Cruise on the Seine
A unique perspective on the city in a cheap and relaxed activity. In winter it may be cold on deck.
- (I.e. Exit from: Eiffel Tower area
- ️ Sailing time: About an hour
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Take the cruise in the evening to see the Eiffel Tower twinkle.
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Tourist bus
Hop-on Hop-off. Good for initial orientation, but sometimes gets stuck in traffic jams.
- (I.e. Stations: Scattered near all the attractions
- ️ time: Free for 24/48 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: On a beautiful day, sit upstairs for perfect photos.
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More tours
Are your feet sore from all the walking? It's time to see Paris from a different angle – whether on the water or in a vintage bus. Sit back and enjoy the show.
🌳 Gardens and parks
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Luxembourg Gardens
The most beloved garden in Paris. Palace, Medici Fountain and a royal atmosphere in the heart of the Latin Quarter . Free admission.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: RER B station (Luxembourg)
- ️ Visit time: 1-2 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: The children will fly on the wooden boat launch in the central lake.
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Tuileries Gardens
The historic gardens connecting the Louvre and Place de la Concorde. Perfect for a picnic among the statues.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Tuileries (Line 1)
- ️ Visit time: About an hour
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Grab one of the green chairs around the fountain and just relax.
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Monceau Park
My favorite garden. Elegant, green, surrounded by mansions and full of little architectural surprises.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Monceau (Line 2)
- ️ Visit time: 1-2 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Look for the pyramid and Roman columns scattered across the lawns.
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To all parks
The secret to the Parisian 'good life'? A green chair, a fresh baguette, and a beautiful garden. These are the green lungs I escape to to recharge my batteries.
🪦 Cemeteries
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Pere Lachaise
The world's most famous cemetery. The resting place of Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf and Oscar Wilde.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Père Lachaise
- ️ Visit time: 2-3 hours
- 💡 Zvi's tip: The place is huge and feels like a maze – pick up a map at the entrance!
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Montmartre Cemetery
Located at the foot of the hill, under an old metal bridge. Full of cats and a mysterious atmosphere.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Place de Clichy
- ️ Visit time: About an hour
- 💡 Zvi's tip: Look for the grave of the singer Delilah, which is always decorated with flowers.
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Montparnasse Cemetery
The bohemian option on the Left Bank. Serge Gainsbourg, Sartre and Baudelaire are buried here.
- (I.e. Nearest metro: Raspail or Edgar Quinet
- ️ Visit time: About an hour
- 💡 Zvi's tip: After the visit, go up to the observation deck from the nearby Montparnasse Tower.
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To all cemeteries
Sound morbid to you? Trust me, it's not. Paris' cemeteries are open-air sculpture gardens full of history, legends, and a surprisingly pastoral quiet.
🗺️ Attractions in every district in Paris
Should I purchase tickets separately or a museum ticket?
| Property | Tickets separately | Museum Pass |
|---|---|---|
| Who is it for? | For those planning 1-2 rooftop attractions | For those who plan to “plow” attractions and museums |
| Financial savings | NO | Very affordable for 4 or more attractions |
| Skipping queues | Yes (if pre-ordered only) | Fast and centralized transition to all included sites |
| Travel flexibility | Low (must commit to a specific time in advance) | High (free flow between sites) |
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Museums and Monuments Card
If you plan to visit a large number of monuments and museums in Paris, it is worth considering buying the museum card . It will save you money and time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the must-see attractions in Paris for first-time visitors?
Is it worth purchasing the Paris Museum Card?
When is the best time to book tickets for attractions in Paris?
Which attractions in Paris are best for children?
Thank you very much for the fascinating and enriching content!
Just a small note, note that the link about Parc Monceau leads to a post about the Tuileries Gardens.
On the other hand, thanks to this mistake, I came up with another fascinating post, but you'll probably want to correct it 🙂
Thank you very much. I fixed it.
Hi Zvi,
My name is Batya, and I am a tour guide in Israel and abroad. Among other things, in France.
Your website is thoughtful, serious, interesting, and really motivates you to visit France, and Paris in particular.
I won't pretend to say that I've read everything, but I enjoy every article!
well done!
Thank you very much 🙂
Excellent. Excellent package with the itineraries that include stories of the places you advertise.
And a question: Following Chirac's champagne, where are the tips published?
Hello Shmuel. Thank you very much.
Tips for saving money in Paris can be found in this article.
Hello Zvi,
I was very happy to discover your site.
A small note regarding the visit to Parc des Princes:
I saw that you also wrote "Parc de France" and I heard that the Israelis think it's
In Parc de France. So maybe it's worth writing "Parc de Prince" and explaining it to the readers!?
Hi Rachel,
That's not how you pronounce the word in French (you say France, not Prince).
deer
just wonderful!
genius idea
Perfect execution
On our trip this April, we will use the guide and write our opinion in detail.
Thank you very much and good luck.
Thank you very much 🙂