Written by Tom Hooker
Already one of Europe’s most emblematic capitals, Paris is known for its astounding landmarks, acclaimed culinary tradition, and rich cultural heritage. It’s a pretty big city, too, so finding your way around and figuring out what to do on the fly can be a little overwhelming. Paris has everything to offer that you could want in a European getaway. We’ve highlighted the best features among many.
You can create your own unique experience with ALLMYNE, where we connect you with local guides, preserve your memories, and allow you to add a flag to your profile through geolocation. So, use this list as a template!
#1. Eating
Eating may just be the best activity to do in Paris because you’re almost always guaranteed an awesome meal. Aside from tasting an endless array of cheeses, breads, and wines, Paris is also a great place to try French classics like confit de canard (a duck dish where all pieces of the duck are used to cook the meat in a way that causes it to fall off the bone) and coq au vin (braised chicken in red wine sauce).
#2. Visit the Paris catacombs
Did you know that there’s a labyrinth of tunnels lined with human bones beneath Paris? After being cleared from cemeteries in the 18th century, the remains of some 6 million Parisians were relocated here to their final resting place, forming the city’s darkest attraction.
#3. Drift down the Seine River
Did you ever picture yourself relaxing while Paris’ most iconic attractions float by? That’s exactly what happens when you take a tour down the Seine River. Pro tip: catch the earliest tour and watch the entire city light up around you!
#4. Visit the Bouquinistes
The Bouquinistes are small kiosks sprinkled along Paris’ riverside avenue where you can buy used books and art. These quirky shops are an emblem of French culture and are now considered a UNESCO World Heritage site, so picking up a piece of art or a used book from this store means taking a literal piece of history with you!
#5. Get a treat from the patisseries
Everyone loves a little decadence and the French have perfected the art of overindulgent pastries. Our suggestions are to visit Paul and Angelina, two large patisseries that are renowned around Europe for their French-style goodies. However, don’t be afraid to try out different treats at other establishments; chances are they will be delicious, too!
#6. Watch a show at the Moulin Rouge
No, we’re not suggesting you watch a screening of the film. We mean actually visiting the real Moulin Rouge and getting a first-hand look at the art of cabaret up close while visiting the country it most likely originated in.
#7. Watch sunsets at the Sacré-Cœur
The Sacré-Cœur basilica is one of the best points to watch the sun set over the French capital. This building is located on the highest hill in Paris, and its staircase is perfectly positioned to watch the sun drop below the skyline.
Other awesome viewpoints include:
- Along the Seine River
- At the Orsay museum
- From The Pompidou Center
- At any of the many Parisian rooftop bars and restaurants
#8. Check out Place du Tertre
Getting a caricature drawn is always fun, especially if you get a chance to get it from a local artist at such an iconic place as the Place du Tertre.
#9. Versailles. Just Versailles!
Paris is packed with amazing museums, so you should definitely look at the different options and make some time to visit your favorites. But, if you have to choose one, it’s worth checking out the most famous one of them all: the Versailles.
#10. The trifecta!
The Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées Gardens, and the Arc du Triomphe (Arch of Triumph) are all staples of tourism. No list of Paris must-visits is complete without them. But, they’re deceptively close to each other; spending the best part of a day checking out all three is not a shabby idea! For some, simply visiting each landmark and taking photographs of the amazing architecture is plenty fulfilling. But, the breathtaking views to be seen at the top of the Eiffel Tower and Arc du Triomphe are among the best in the whole city.
France is a great place to visit, and Paris is its most iconic city. The City of Light is undoubtedly a must-visit if you’re planning a Europe trip, so make sure to schedule a stop and enjoy the city’s best. There are many ways to explore Paris, but having a local help you choose the best activities and give you tips to move around the city is priceless. ALLMYNE gives you the ability to access a gallery of curated tours and local guides that can help you build a personalized itinerary and even take you around the city. Get a unique keepsake crafted with your own memories, and travel with ALLMYNE.
