Paris is a city of romance, fashion, and an unapologetic love for carbs. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning like an old flame, the French capital will always find new ways to charm you. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, here’s your ultimate (and wittiest) guide to making the most of Paris.
1. Start Your Day the Parisian Way: With Coffee and a Croissant
Forget your oat milk, sugar-free, double-shot monstrosity. In Paris, you order un café (espresso) and a croissant. If you want to feel truly Parisian, sit outside a café, people-watch, and pretend you’re contemplating the meaning of life (or just wondering how everyone here looks so effortlessly chic). Try Café de Flore for a historic feel or Du Pain et des Idées for the best pastries of your life.
2. Visit the Eiffel Tower (Yes, You Have To)
Sure, Parisians love to roll their eyes at tourists taking selfies here, but let’s be honest: you can’t go to Paris and not see the Eiffel Tower. Whether you climb it for the view, picnic beneath it, or just stare at it dramatically like a movie character, it’s a must. Pro tip: go at night when it sparkles every hour on the hour.
3. Stroll Along the Seine Like You’re in a French Film
Paris was made for walking (preferably in stylish shoes that you’ll regret after five hours). Wander along the Seine River, cross the charming bridges, and soak in the magic. Stop at the Bouquinistes (green bookstalls) to browse vintage books and prints, because nothing says intellectual like carrying an old French novel you’ll never actually read.
4. Get Lost in the Louvre (Or Just See the Mona Lisa and Run)
The Louvre is massive. If you plan on seeing everything, cancel the rest of your day (and possibly week). Most people beeline for the Mona Lisa, snap a photo, and escape. But if you want to impress people later, pretend you spent hours admiring Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo, it sounds fancier.
5. Experience the Art Vibes at Musée d’Orsay
If the Louvre is a royal banquet, then Musée d’Orsay is a chic wine bar. Located in a stunning former train station, this museum is home to impressionist masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas. It’s less overwhelming than the Louvre, and the clock tower view alone is worth the visit.
6. Picnic Like a Local at Jardin du Luxembourg
What’s more Parisian than a Jardin du Luxembourg picnic? Grab a baguette, some cheese, and a bottle of wine (yes, drinking in parks is totally acceptable here). Sit by the fountains, watch the sailboats, and bask in the fact that your lunch is fancier than most restaurant meals elsewhere.
7. Shop (or Window Shop) on the Champs-Élysées
Whether you’re splurging on a designer bag or just treating yourself to macarons from Ladurée, a stroll down Champs-Élysées is essential. End your shopping adventure at the Arc de Triomphe, you can even climb it for stunning views (and to burn off that croissant from earlier).
8. Discover Montmartre: The Artsiest Neighborhood
Montmartre is where bohemian dreams come to life. Walk up the winding streets, explore artist stalls at Place du Tertre, and visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica for the best panoramic view of Paris. If you want to feel like Amélie Poulain, grab a coffee at Café des Deux Moulins.
9. Get Your Bookish Fix at Shakespeare and Company
This legendary bookstore is an expat haven and the perfect place to soak in literary history. Buy a book, get it stamped, and sit upstairs pretending you’re writing the next great novel.
10. Explore the Marais (Where Cool People Hang Out)
The Marais is a mix of historic charm and trendy spots. Wander through its narrow streets, check out independent boutiques, and enjoy falafel at L’As du Fallafel, because even in Paris, sometimes you need something other than bread and cheese.
11. Visit the Opéra Garnier (Even If You Don’t Like Opera)
Even if you have zero interest in opera, the Palais Garnier is worth a visit. It’s lavish, dramatic, and makes you feel like you’re in a different era. Stand in the grand foyer and channel your inner Phantom of the Opera.
12. Indulge in French Pastries (Calories Don’t Exist in Paris)
Paris is a pastry lover’s paradise. Try Pierre Hermé for mind-blowing macarons, Angelina for their legendary hot chocolate, and Poilâne for their buttery, flaky apple tart. Just eat everything, future-you will thank you for the memories.
13. Take a Day Trip to Versailles (Prepare to Feel Poor)
If you want to see how extra the French aristocracy was, visit Versailles. The Hall of Mirrors, the endless gardens, and Marie Antoinette’s extravagant retreat will leave you in awe (and possibly questioning your life choices).
14. Go Underground at the Catacombs (If You Dare)
The Catacombs of Paris are eerie, fascinating, and not for the faint of heart. Beneath the city lies a labyrinth of tunnels filled with the remains of millions. It’s creepy, but hey, it’s Paris, where even the macabre is stylish.
15. Dine at a Classic Parisian Bistro
You haven’t done Paris right if you haven’t had a long, leisurely meal at a bistro. Order steak frites, escargots (yes, snails, you’ll love them), or a simple omelette with a glass of wine. Try Le Comptoir du Relais or Bistrot Paul Bert for that quintessential French dining experience.
16. Experience the Nightlife in Pigalle
Paris is even more magical at night. Head to Pigalle for a mix of chic cocktail bars and cabaret fun. If you’re feeling fancy, see a show at the Moulin Rouge (yes, it’s touristy, but so are berets, and we still love them).
17. Cruise the Seine at Sunset
A Seine River cruise is pure romance. Whether you’re with a partner, friends, or just your fabulous self, seeing the city light up from the water is unforgettable. Plus, it’s a great excuse to sip champagne while floating past the Notre-Dame.
18. Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle One Last Time
Before you leave, revisit the Eiffel Tower at night. Stand on the Trocadéro, let the lights dazzle you, and whisper Paris, je t’aime. Or just take one last selfie. Either way, your Parisian adventure isn’t complete without this final moment of magic.
Paris is a city that begs to be savored. Whether you’re eating your weight in pastries, getting lost in art, or strolling down a cobblestone street at midnight, you’ll understand why this place is timeless.
So go on, live your best Parisian life. And remember, when in doubt, just order another croissant.
