No trip to Paris would be complete without a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. This activity includes a visit to the tower's summit, giving you breathtaking views of the City of Light. The experience typically starts by skipping the notoriously long lines to gain direct access to the elevator, which whisks you up to the second level. From there, another elevator takes you all the way to the top, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Parisian landmarks such as the Seine River, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe. During the visit, take advantage of the opportunity to learn about the tower's history and engineering from the guides or informative displays. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the memories of this once-in-a-lifetime vista.
The Louvre Museum is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. A guided tour of the Louvre allows you to discover the museum's masterpieces without getting lost in its vast corridors. The tour generally focuses on the most famous works, such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. In addition, guides provide insightful commentary on the history, artistry, and cultural significance of these works, enriching your understanding of the pieces. You'll also learn about the former royal palace's architecture, including the modern addition of I.M. Pei's Pyramid. A guided tour is a fantastic way to navigate the museum efficiently while gaining a deeper appreciation for the art it houses.
Seeing Paris from the Seine River offers a unique perspective on the city's historic architecture and vibrant life. Starting from the Eiffel Tower, Bateaux Parisiens or similar companies offer a variety of cruises, from simple sightseeing trips to luxurious dinner cruises. As you glide along the river, you'll pass by iconic landmarks such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, Musée d'Orsay, and the Conciergerie. An audio guide or live commentary often accompanies these cruises, providing historical context and fun facts about the sights. Sunset and evening cruises are especially popular, as they allow you to witness the city's transformation at dusk with the monuments beautifully illuminated. A Seine River cruise is an excellent way to see many of Paris's most famous sights in a short amount of time.
Montmartre is known for its bohemian past and its association with artists such as Picasso, Van Gogh, and Salvador Dalí. A walking tour of this historic hilltop neighborhood takes you through cobbled streets, past vine-covered buildings, and into lively squares like Place du Tertre, where artists set up their easels outdoors. You'll visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica, with its stunning white domes, and take in sweeping views of the city. Throughout the tour, you'll learn all about the area's rich history, the famous artists who lived there, and the films that have featured Montmartre. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the artistic atmosphere and discover hidden gems that you might not find on your own.
Although the Notre-Dame Cathedral suffered from a devastating fire in 2019, the site remains a significant historical and architectural landmark in Paris. A guided tour usually consists of a walk around the island of Île de la Cité, the center of ancient Paris, and includes an outside view of the cathedral while restoration efforts continue. Learn about Notre-Dame's historical importance, its Gothic architecture, and the role it has played in Parisian and French history. The tour typically also includes a visit to Sainte-Chapelle, known for its stunning stained-glass windows, and La Conciergerie, a former prison where Marie Antoinette was held. Discover the rich history that shaped this small island in the heart of the city.
The Palace of Versailles, once the home of French kings and queens, is renowned for its opulent architecture and magnificent gardens. A trip to Versailles from Paris usually includes a guided tour of the palace's State Rooms, Hall of Mirrors, and the King's and Queen's private apartments. You'll learn about the historical significance of the site, the lives of the royals, and the French Revolution. After exploring the palace, stroll through the expansive gardens, which are a masterpiece of landscape design. Depending on the option you choose, you may also witness the Musical Fountain Shows or enjoy a bike ride through the wider estate, including the Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette's estate. Visiting Versailles is a captivating journey into the grandeur of French history and art.
The Paris Catacombs are an eerie and fascinating attraction far beneath the streets of the city. Created in the late 18th century to alleviate overcrowding in Parisian cemeteries, the catacombs hold the remains of millions of Parisians. Tours of this underground labyrinth include a descent via a narrow spiral staircase to a depth of over 20 meters, where you will walk through tunnels and rooms stacked with bones and skulls arranged in macabre displays. Guides provide commentary on the history, construction, and legends surrounding the catacombs, ensuring a rich and informative experience. Due to the nature of the attraction, it's not suitable for the faint-hearted or those with mobility issues, but it certainly offers a unique glimpse into the darker side of Parisian history.
Experience the glitz and glamour of a traditional Parisian cabaret with a visit to one of the city's legendary venues such as the Moulin Rouge, Lido, or Crazy Horse. These shows combine elaborate dance numbers, stunning costumes, and feats of acrobatics, all performed to original music or classic French chansons. A cabaret show often includes a champagne reception or dinner option, making for a perfect night out that encapsulates the spirit of Paris's famous nightlife. As the dancers high-kick and the lights dazzle, you'll be transported to a world of elegance and fantasy. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a quintessential Parisian experience, an unforgettable highlight of any visit to the City of Light.
Get a taste of French cuisine from the inside by joining a cooking class with a local chef in Paris. These classes range from learning how to make classic French pastries like croissants and macarons to preparing a full gourmet meal. Start with a trip to the market to pick up fresh ingredients, and then don your apron to learn the secrets of French cooking techniques in a hands-on environment. After the cooking is done, sit down to enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow food enthusiasts. It's not just a cooking class; it's a cultural experience that provides insight into the French way of life and a chance to learn skills you can take home with you. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, a French cooking class is sure to be a delightful and delicious activity.
Paris's Belleville neighborhood is a vibrant and multicultural district with a rich history as a haven for artists and musicians. In recent years, it has become known for its dynamic street art scene. Taking a street art tour with a knowledgeable guide will help you discover a different and more modern side of Paris's artistic heritage. As you wander the streets of Belleville, you'll see a diverse array of murals, graffiti, and installations by well-known street artists and local talents. Your guide will explore the stories and techniques behind the art, offering a greater understanding of the messages and social commentary often present in the work. This is an activity for those who wish to explore contemporary culture and enjoy an off-the-beaten-path experience in one of Paris's most colorful quarters.
