Paris is an absolute stunner! It consistently ranks as the most visited city in the world and it’s not hard to see why. With picturesque architecture around every corner, cute cafes for people-watching, and divine cuisine, Paris is a perfect location for anyone! If you’ve not yet been to Paris, then beware – the following is going to create a burning desire to visit Paris immediately!
FREE: Map of Paris highlighting the following 12 attractions in Paris!
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. By day or by night, the tower is breath-taking. A visit up to the top will set you back €17 for the privilege, whilst many opt to enjoy a picnic seated on the Champs de Mars lawns with the Eiffel tower as their view.
With 2 restaurants, you may also visit the Eiffel tower without paying the entrance fee, though the restaurants are anything but cheap! However, you are guaranteed a superb meal that’s for sure! I ate at 58 Tour Eiffel where I had a 3 course french cuisine meal, a bottle of wine, and an incredible view 😉
Notre Dame
After it’s completion in the 14th Century, this gothic church has since become a must-see tourist spot. Located along the Seine river one of the the islands, Notre Dame is most famous for the gargoyle’s. If you think the gargoyles were to scare people you’d be wrong! The gargoyles ensure rain water does not run down the facade.
The must-do activity for the Notre Dame is to climb the 422 steps for a breathtaking view over the cathedral and the heart of Paris. The price to climb to the top of the Notre Dame is €10.
Want to do the self-guided walking tour of Paris I created (and did)?
Sacre Coer
The Sacre Coeur is another religious site that you MUST visit whilst in Paris! Located in my favourite neighbourhood of Montmartre, it sits atop the hill and has stunning views across Paris. What some people do not know: you can climb the dome, by taking the stairs to the left side of the front facade.
Champs Elysees
Stretching from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, this is one of the most famous streets in the world! Known for the famous luxury shops and boutiques located along the avenue, this street is the place to see and be seen.
My favourite store along the Champs Elysees is none other than Laduree – the famous bakery/patisserie. Whether you love their signature product – the macaron – or prefer an eclair or slice of cake, this store produces exquisite yummy’s in a gorgeous environment.
[ctt template=”5″ link=”b_9g4″ via=”yes” ]If you haven’t been to Laduree, were you even in Paris?[/ctt]
Arc De Triomphe
This triumphal arch is dedicated to French soldiers lost in war. The arch itself is impressively beautiful and resembles those found in Italy. To get to the arch, which is found in the center of a very large traffic circle, you cannot simply cross-the-road. There are stairs to go under the road, where you enter from underneath the arch. The traffic circle surrounding the Arc de Triomphe is also the only place in Paris where your insurance does not ‘exist’!
Recommendation: pay the €8 to go to the top of the Arc de Triomphe as the view of the Eiffel Tower is my favourite!
Louvre
The Louvre is the world’s largest museum and houses some of the most famous pieces of art in the world. The Mona Lisa, Winged Victory and Aphrodite and many other masterpieces are all found within the halls of the Louvre.
Admission is €15, with free entry on the first Sunday of the month from October to March.
Saint Chappelle
Not visiting Saint Chappelle would be a complete disaster. I’ve never been more swept away than when stepping inside this absolutely stunning church. The stained glass surrounds you in beautiful pinks and purples and reds and I personally could have stared up at them all day.
Entry into Saint Chappelle is €15 and well worth it!
Moulin Rouge
The Mouiln Rouge, which is French for ‘Red Mill’ is named after the windmill on top of the roof. Located along Boulevard de Clichy near the Montmartre. Feerie is the current cabaret show which plays at 7pm, 9pm and 11pm nightly. The cheapest tickets start at €87, however it’s a show you’ll never forget! Whilst the Moulin Rouge looks great during the day, the best time to see it in all of its glory is after dark, when the neons are in full view!
Seine River
The Seine seems to be the epicentre of Paris. Follow it from La Marais and you’ll wind your way past many attractions, finishing at the Eiffel Tower. A stroll along the Seine, walking hand-in-hand with your love is romantic as hell. Near the islands of the Seine, attached to the Pont Neuf, you’ll find a park land jutting out into the Seine. Enjoy relaxing here with a baguette and rest your weary tourist feet. Its quiet here, which is bliss if you are a little bit done with tourists.
Also read: Travel Fashion Essentials – how to look good & say comfy travelling!
Love Lock Bridge
This bridge has been copied in many other cities around the world, but this one’s the original! What’s not to love about love?
Found on the Pont des Arts near the Notre Dame, you may or may not find the locks! The bridge has been so weighed down by the locks, there has been some removed. You can find more locks being placed on or near the bridge in ‘protest’, showing that love conquers all 😉
Jardin du Palais Royale
I mention the Jardin du Palais Royal – which is a lovely spot to relax, perhaps even worth a small picnic. But I must tell you, the real hero here is the striped columns of different heights, the garden’s signature feature! Known as Buren’s Columns, it is a contemporary art installation where visitors love to stand on top and take selfies. And yes – I did that too!
Montmartre district
For many, the Montmartre district is a favourite. The charm comes from the artsy vibes, cobble-stone streets and quaint picturesque cafes. Stroll the streets, pick up some art, and enjoy some top French cuisine while you are there.
[ctt template=”5″ link=”cf10s” via=”yes” ]Paris is always a good idea![/ctt]
Getting to Paris:
Train: If you are heading to Paris from surrounding cities (London/Brussels/Amsterdam etc) you should absolutely take the Eurostar or Thalys trains! From London it is a mere 2 hour journey, departing from Kings Cross and arriving into Gare du Noord station! The Thalys also arrives into Gare du Noord, making this option much handier than the airports!
Airports: Both Charles de Gaulle and Orly are reasonably close to Paris and are very well connected to the city. Flying into Paris Beauvais on a budget airline might be your thing – just know in advance that this airport is 1.5 hours drive into Paris.
Coach Bus: Many bus lines have routes to Paris. With companies like OuiBus, National Expess, GoEuro and Eurolines, there’s plenty of competition and likewise, competitive pricing! You may be travelling for longer than plane or train, but for the budget conscious it’s a great way to visit!
Need to find a hotel in Paris? I use Booking.com to find the best hotel deals.
What to know:
Currency: Parisians use the Euro, which is the same as many of the European countries.
Language: Je M’Appelle Baguette. French people speak French. English is also well spoken throughout the city.
Cost of Living: Paris is ranked 35th out of 509 cities in the world.
Curious to read more about France? Check out my other posts on France here!
FREE: Map of Paris highlighting the 12 attractions in Paris!
Have you been to Paris? Considering going after seeing this post? Let me know via commenting below!
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Australian expat, married to a Dutch guy, living in Amsterdam. Previously lived in London for 3 years, too! Lover of travel, coffee, brunch, beaches, fresh flowers, and family. Now a new mum, navigating life with a baby!
14 thoughts on “12 Reasons To Go To Paris Immediately”
Je t’aime Paris
Saint Chappelle was my favorite!
As always nice pictures and content. Especially Saint Chappelle, that was my favorite! Care to share your top pick?
First, you take really good pictures! Second, I have always wanted to go to Paris. It is definitely on my bucket list and I will be saving your post for when I do get the opportunity.
I just relived my Paree trip through this post; I also visited the disney land and some of the Vineyards around Paris. Luxembourgh Gardens and Notre Dame are two of my fav places there plus a buggy ride from Eiffel tower to around it was just the most fabulous fun I ever had! Best money I spent in Paris!!
I also went to Disney near Paris a couple of years ago! What did you think? The buggy sounds like something I need to do next time I’m in Paris 🙂
Great post! However, I never understood why so many people love Paris… I didn’t feel it! Maybe I should go back!
Yes, I agree with that idea – take another opportunity to explore Paris again and maybe Paris can impress you! 🙂
I went to Paris about 20 years ago, and it was amazing! I desperately want to go back there someday.
I am sending you online good vibes in hopes you can get back to Paris sooner rather than later!
I’ve honestly never really been interested in visiting Paris. I mean, aside from French pastries, there doesn’t seem to be much that I’d be interested in. But I guess with so many people raving about the city, I shouldn’t completely wipe it off my travel list, huh?
Brianna, I think Paris is for everyone! No matter the style of traveller you are, Paris really is a destination you cannot miss. I hope you add it to your travel list one day! 🙂
Great, now I’m really really longing to go to Paris… Love your pictures and tips, can’t wait to follow up on them! Je m’appelle baguette for sure 😉
Thanks for the feedback Katrien! I’m so pleased to have inspired a trip to Paris! 🙂