Top 25 Things To Do in Paris

As the last rays of sunlight paint the sky in hues of pink and gold, you find yourself atop the hill of Montmartre, surrounded by the charming whispers of Parisian life. Suddenly, the Eiffel Tower in the distance begins to sparkle, its twinkling lights a magical dance against the deepening twilight. This moment, equal parts breathtaking and intimate, captures the essence of Paris – a city where timeless beauty and modern energy intertwine at every turn.

But Paris is so much more than its postcard-perfect views. It's a city of contrasts, where world-renowned museums house priceless masterpieces just blocks away from edgy street art. Where Michelin-starred restaurants share neighborhoods with cozy bistros serving generations-old family recipes. A place where centuries of history are etched into every façade, yet new trends and ideas constantly reshape the cultural landscape.

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Francophile, Paris rewards your curiosity with an endless array of experiences. From the grandeur of Versailles to the hidden passages of the Catacombs, from picnics in tranquil parks to late-night jazz clubs, the City of Light offers a dazzling spectrum of adventures. So, grab your most comfortable walking shoes and an appetite for discovery – we're about to explore the 25 best things to do in this incomparable city.

Ascend the Eiffel Tower

No visit to Paris is complete without a trip up its most iconic landmark. As you ascend the 984-foot iron lattice tower, originally built as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World's Fair, you'll be retracing the steps of millions who've marveled at this architectural wonder. The panoramic views from each level offer a stunning perspective on the city's layout, from the Seine snaking through the heart of Paris to the grand boulevards radiating outwards. At the summit, the whole of Paris unfolds before you like a living map, with famous monuments and hidden gems alike revealed from your bird's-eye vantage point.

• Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 11:45 PM (last ascent at 10:30 PM)
• Admission: €26.10 for adults to the top

Why Visit: The unparalleled views and the thrill of standing atop one of the world's most recognizable structures make this a quintessential Parisian experience.

Insider Tip: Book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, and consider timing your visit for sunset to see Paris transition from day to night.

Explore Masterpieces at the Louvre

Step into the world's largest art museum, home to thousands of works spanning human history and creativity. The Louvre's vast collection can be overwhelming, but don't let that deter you. Beyond the crowds surrounding the Mona Lisa, you'll find quieter galleries filled with equally mesmerizing works. Wander through ancient Egyptian artifacts, Greek and Roman sculptures, and priceless paintings from every major European art movement. The building itself, a former royal palace, is a masterpiece of French architecture, complete with the modern addition of I.M. Pei's iconic glass pyramid in the courtyard.

• Location: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)
• Admission: €17 online

Why Visit: To stand face-to-face with some of humanity's greatest artistic achievements in a setting that's a work of art itself.

Insider Tip: Visit on Wednesday or Friday evenings when the museum is open late and crowds are thinner. Start with the departments that interest you most, as seeing everything in one visit is nearly impossible.

Stroll Through the Charming Montmartre

Perched on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre feels like a village within the city, its cobblestone streets and artists' squares evoking the bohemian Paris of yesteryear. This hilltop neighborhood was once home to painters like Picasso and Van Gogh, and that artistic spirit lives on in the portrait artists and caricaturists of Place du Tertre. Wander past iconic windmills, discover hidden vineyards, and climb the steps to the gleaming white Sacré-Cœur Basilica for one of the best views over Paris. As evening falls, the neighborhood comes alive with the sounds of accordions and the clinking of wine glasses in cozy bistros.

• Location: 18th arrondissement
• Hours: Accessible 24/7, though individual attractions have varying hours
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: To experience the romantic, artistic soul of Paris in a charming hilltop setting.

Insider Tip: Avoid the tourist traps on Rue des Abbesses and instead explore the quieter streets like Rue des Saules for a more authentic feel.

Marvel at Notre-Dame Cathedral

While Notre-Dame is currently closed for restoration following the 2019 fire, its majestic façade still commands attention from its perch on the Île de la Cité. This masterpiece of French Gothic architecture has been the heart of Paris for over 800 years, its twin towers and intricate sculptures telling stories in stone. Though you can't enter the cathedral, you can admire its exterior from the newly redesigned square and learn about the ongoing restoration efforts. The surrounding area, including the charming Île Saint-Louis, offers plenty to explore while you wait for Notre-Dame to reopen its doors.

• Location: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris
• Hours: Exterior viewable 24/7
• Admission: Free (exterior only due to ongoing restoration)

Why Visit: To witness the resilience of this Parisian icon and appreciate its enduring beauty, even as it undergoes a remarkable rebirth.

Insider Tip: For a unique perspective, take a river cruise on the Seine that passes by Notre-Dame, allowing you to see the cathedral from different angles.

Indulge in Culinary Delights at Marché des Enfants Rouges

Immerse yourself in the sights, smells, and flavors of Paris's oldest covered market, dating back to 1615. This bustling food haven in the trendy Marais district is a favorite among locals for its diverse array of fresh produce, flowers, and ready-to-eat international cuisine. Stroll past colorful stalls offering everything from traditional French cheeses and charcuterie to Moroccan tagines and Japanese bento boxes. The market's name, which translates to "Market of the Red Children," comes from the red uniforms worn by the orphans of a nearby hospice in the 16th century.

• Location: 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris
• Hours: Tuesday to Saturday 8:30 AM - 7:30 PM, Sunday 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM
• Admission: Free to enter, food prices vary

Why Visit: To taste your way through a slice of Parisian culinary history and experience the city's multicultural flavors.

Insider Tip: Visit during lunchtime to enjoy the market at its liveliest, but be prepared for crowds. For a more relaxed experience, come in the late afternoon.

Discover Impressionist Treasures at Musée d'Orsay

Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d'Orsay is a temple to Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The museum's collection bridges the gap between the Louvre and modern art museums, showcasing works from 1848 to 1914. Gaze upon masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas, including iconic paintings like Van Gogh's self-portraits and Monet's dreamy water lilies. The building itself is a work of art, with its soaring ceilings, grand clock, and beautifully restored architectural details.

• Location: 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris
• Hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM (9:45 PM on Thursdays, closed Mondays)
• Admission: €16 for adults

Why Visit: To see the world's largest collection of Impressionist masterpieces in a breathtaking architectural setting.

Insider Tip: Head to the upper level for a stunning view of Paris through the giant clock face, and visit the outdoor terrace for a beautiful perspective on the Seine and Sacré-Cœur.

Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens

Escape the urban bustle in this magnificent park, a favorite retreat for Parisians and visitors alike. Created in the 17th century by Marie de' Medici, the Luxembourg Gardens blend French and Italian styles with English gardens, creating a green oasis in the heart of the Left Bank. Admire the grand Luxembourg Palace, now home to the French Senate, as you stroll past vibrant flowerbeds, ornate fountains, and tree-lined promenades. On warm days, locals flock here to picnic on the lawns, play chess, or simply bask in the sun with a good book.

• Location: 6th arrondissement
• Hours: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM (varies by season)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: To experience a beloved Parisian green space and people-watch in a stunning historical setting.

Insider Tip: Rent a toy sailboat to float on the grand basin in front of the palace, a charming Parisian tradition that's been delighting children (and adults) for generations.

Uncover History at the Catacombs

Descend into the eerie yet fascinating underground ossuaries of Paris, where the remains of millions of Parisians were transferred in the 18th century to alleviate overcrowded cemeteries. This network of tunnels and chambers, stretching for miles beneath the city streets, offers a unique glimpse into Paris's past. As you navigate the dimly lit passageways, you'll encounter carefully arranged bones and skulls, along with informative displays about the history of the catacombs and the development of Paris. It's a somber yet oddly beautiful experience that reveals a hidden side of the City of Light.

• Location: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:45 AM - 8:30 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: €29 for adults (audio guide included)

Why Visit: To explore an unusual and thought-provoking side of Parisian history in a truly unique setting.

Insider Tip: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, and bring a light jacket as it's cool underground even in summer.

Shop and Stroll Along the Champs-Élysées

Experience the grandeur of one of the world's most famous avenues, stretching from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. This tree-lined boulevard is a showcase of Parisian elegance, lined with luxury boutiques, flagship stores, cafes, and theaters. While it can be touristy and crowded, the Champs-Élysées still captures the essence of Parisian chic. Window shop at high-end fashion houses, enjoy a coffee at a sidewalk cafe, or simply soak in the bustling atmosphere. At night, the illuminated avenue takes on a magical quality, especially with the Arc de Triomphe glowing at its western end.

• Location: 8th arrondissement
• Hours: Most shops open 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
• Admission: Free to stroll

Why Visit: To experience the epitome of Parisian grandeur and indulge in some world-class shopping or people-watching.

Insider Tip: For a more relaxed shopping experience, explore the side streets branching off the main avenue, where you'll find quieter boutiques and charming cafes.

Climb the Arc de Triomphe

Stand atop this monumental arch honoring those who fought for France, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris. From its observation deck, you can trace the twelve avenues radiating out from the Place Charles de Gaulle, creating the star-like configuration that gives the area its nickname, l'Étoile. The intricate sculptural groups on the arch's pillars and the names of generals and battles inscribed on its inner and outer surfaces tell a compelling story of French military history.

• Location: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM (11:00 PM in summer)
• Admission: €13 for adults

Why Visit: For unparalleled views down the Champs-Élysées and across Paris, and to appreciate a key monument in French history.

Insider Tip: Visit at sunset to see Paris transition from day to night, with the Eiffel Tower's light show as a highlight.

Cruise Along the Seine

Gain a unique perspective on Paris from the water as you glide along the Seine. A river cruise offers a relaxing way to see many of the city's most famous landmarks, from Notre-Dame and the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower and the Musée d'Orsay. As you pass under Paris's beautiful bridges, each with its own history and character, you'll understand why the banks of the Seine are UNESCO World Heritage listed. Commentary on board provides insights into the history and architecture of the sites you're passing, making it both a scenic and educational experience.

• Location: Various boarding points along the Seine
• Hours: Varies by company, but typically run from 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM
• Price: From €15 for a basic one-hour cruise

Why Visit: To see Paris from a different angle and enjoy a relaxing break from walking the city streets.

Insider Tip: An evening cruise is particularly magical, as you'll see Paris illuminated and at its most romantic.

Wander Through Le Marais

Step into one of Paris's most historic and trendy neighborhoods, where medieval architecture meets cutting-edge fashion. Le Marais, spread across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, is a maze of narrow streets lined with aristocratic mansions, hidden courtyards, avant-garde art galleries, and chic boutiques. This district, once the Jewish quarter of Paris, retains much of its cultural heritage while embracing a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Explore the Place des Vosges, Paris's oldest planned square, or visit the Picasso Museum housed in the magnificent Hôtel Salé.

• Location: 3rd and 4th arrondissements
• Hours: Shops typically open 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: To experience a perfectly preserved slice of old Paris that's also at the cutting edge of fashion, art, and cuisine.

Insider Tip: Visit on a Sunday when many other parts of Paris are quiet, but the Marais buzzes with activity, its shops and cafes open for business.

Visit the Centre Pompidou

Dive into the world of modern and contemporary art at this iconic cultural center. With its radical inside-out architecture featuring exposed pipes and external escalators, the Centre Pompidou is as much a work of art as the pieces it houses. Inside, you'll find Europe's largest collection of modern art, featuring works by Picasso, Kandinsky, Chagall, and many others. The center also hosts cutting-edge temporary exhibitions, a vast public library, and a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of Paris.

• Location: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris
• Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM (closed Tuesdays)
• Admission: €14 for adults

Why Visit: To experience groundbreaking modern art in a building that challenges traditional architecture.

Insider Tip: Take the external escalator to the top for free and enjoy the view, even if you don't enter the museum.

Explore the Catacombs

Descend into the eerie yet fascinating underground ossuaries of Paris, where the remains of millions of Parisians were transferred in the 18th century to alleviate overcrowded cemeteries. This network of tunnels and chambers, stretching for miles beneath the city streets, offers a unique glimpse into Paris's past. As you navigate the dimly lit passageways, you'll encounter carefully arranged bones and skulls, along with informative displays about the history of the catacombs and the development of Paris.

• Location: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:45 AM - 8:30 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: €29 for adults (audio guide included)

Why Visit: To explore an unusual and thought-provoking side of Parisian history in a truly unique setting.

Insider Tip: Book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, and bring a light jacket as it's cool underground even in summer.

Picnic in the Champ de Mars

Spread out a blanket in the sprawling green space that stretches from the Eiffel Tower to the École Militaire. This large public park is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists to relax, play games, and enjoy picnics with an unbeatable view of the Eiffel Tower. As the sun sets, watch the iron lady come to life with its sparkling light show, creating a magical backdrop for your Parisian evening.

• Location: 2 Allée Adrienne Lecouvreur, 75007 Paris
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: For a quintessential Parisian experience of leisurely enjoying good food, wine, and company in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower.

Insider Tip: Stop by a local market or bakery to pick up picnic supplies. Don't forget a bottle of wine - drinking in public parks is generally tolerated in Paris.

Discover Père Lachaise Cemetery

Wander through the paths of this vast, park-like cemetery, the final resting place of countless famous figures from history, literature, and the arts. From Jim Morrison to Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf to Chopin, the ornate tombs and memorials tell stories of lives that shaped culture around the world. The cemetery's peaceful atmosphere, with its cobblestone paths and towering trees, makes for a surprisingly serene and contemplative experience.

• Location: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris
• Hours: Monday to Friday 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM, Saturday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: To pay respects to cultural icons and enjoy a peaceful, historical walk through a beautiful green space.

Insider Tip: Pick up a map at the entrance or download one on your phone to help locate specific graves, as the cemetery is vast and can be confusing to navigate.

Experience the Palace of Versailles

Take a day trip to the opulent Palace of Versailles, the epitome of French royal extravagance. Once the seat of power for the French monarchy, Versailles is a masterpiece of architecture, art, and landscape design. Marvel at the glittering Hall of Mirrors, explore the lavishly decorated State Apartments, and lose yourself in the vast, meticulously manicured gardens complete with fountains, sculptures, and hidden groves.

• Location: Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: €27 for palace and gardens (€21 for gardens only on musical fountain show days)

Why Visit: To step back in time and experience the grandeur of the French monarchy at its peak.

Insider Tip: Visit on a Tuesday or midweek for smaller crowds. Don't miss the Musical Fountain Shows in the gardens during summer months.

Shop at Le Bon Marché

Le Bon Marché

Indulge in some retail therapy at Paris's oldest department store, a temple of Parisian style since 1852. Le Bon Marché offers a curated selection of high-end fashion, beauty products, gourmet foods, and home goods in an elegant setting. The store's beautiful architecture, complete with a stunning glass ceiling and Art Deco staircases, makes shopping here an experience in itself. Don't miss La Grande Épicerie across the street, a food hall paradise for culinary enthusiasts.

• Location: 24 Rue de Sèvres, 75007 Paris
• Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Sunday 11:00 AM - 7:45 PM
• Admission: Free to enter

Why Visit: For a luxurious shopping experience in a historic setting that epitomizes Parisian elegance.

Insider Tip: Even if you're not planning to buy, the window displays are works of art worth admiring, especially during the holiday season.

Explore Canal Saint-Martin

Discover the charming Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood, a picturesque area beloved by locals for its laid-back vibe and scenic waterways. Stroll along the canal's edge, watching boats navigate the locks, or join Parisians relaxing on the banks with a picnic. The area is dotted with trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and excellent restaurants, making it perfect for a day of leisurely exploration.

• Location: 10th arrondissement
• Hours: Area accessible 24/7, shop and cafe hours vary
• Admission: Free to explore

Why Visit: To experience a less touristy side of Paris and enjoy a relaxed, local atmosphere.

Insider Tip: On Sundays, parts of the roads along the canal are closed to cars, creating a festive, pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

Visit Sainte-Chapelle

Step into a jewel box of stained glass at Sainte-Chapelle, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Built in the 13th century to house Christian relics, this royal chapel is renowned for its breathtaking stained glass windows that seem to float the walls away in a symphony of light and color. The 15 towering windows depict over 1,000 scenes from the Old and New Testaments, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle as sunlight streams through.

• Location: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (7:00 PM from April to September)
• Admission: €11.50 for adults

Why Visit: To witness one of the most beautiful examples of High Gothic architecture and be surrounded by stunning medieval stained glass.

Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny day for the full effect of the stained glass, and consider attending one of the classical music concerts held in this spectacular setting.

Discover the Musée Carnavalet

Dive into the rich history of Paris at the recently renovated Musée Carnavalet, housed in two neighboring mansions in the Marais. This free museum tells the story of Paris from prehistoric times to the present day through a vast collection of artifacts, paintings, models, and reconstructed historical rooms. Highlights include objects from the French Revolution, paintings of Parisian life by famous artists, and a recreation of Marcel Proust's bedroom.

• Location: 23 Rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: To gain a deep understanding of Paris's evolution and see fascinating artifacts from every era of the city's history.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection after your visit.

Enjoy a Show at the Moulin Rouge

Experience the glitz and glamour of Paris's most famous cabaret at the iconic Moulin Rouge. Since 1889, this legendary venue has been dazzling audiences with its spectacular shows featuring elaborate costumes, acrobatics, and of course, the high-kicking cancan dancers. The Moulin Rouge's distinctive red windmill has become a symbol of the bohemian spirit of Montmartre and the golden age of Parisian nightlife.

• Location: 82 Boulevard de Clichy, 75018 Paris
• Hours: Shows typically at 9:00 PM and 11:00 PM
• Admission: Prices vary, starting from around €87 for show only

Why Visit: To be part of a long-standing Parisian tradition and enjoy a night of spectacular entertainment.

Insider Tip: Book well in advance, especially for the dinner and show option. Dress up for the occasion - while there's no strict dress code, most guests treat it as a special night out.

Explore the Musée Rodin

Discover the work of one of France's most famous sculptors in the beautiful setting of the artist's former workshop and gardens. The Musée Rodin houses an extensive collection of Auguste Rodin's sculptures, including famous works like "The Thinker" and "The Kiss." The museum is split between the elegant 18th-century Hôtel Biron and its surrounding rose gardens, where many of Rodin's larger works are displayed outdoors.

• Location: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris
• Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM (closed Mondays)
• Admission: €13 for adults (€5 for garden only)

Why Visit: To see masterpieces of sculpture in an intimate, beautiful setting that was Rodin's actual workspace.

Insider Tip: On a nice day, buy a garden-only ticket and enjoy Rodin's sculptures amid the roses and landscaped grounds.

Take a Food Tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Savor the flavors of Paris in the charming Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, known for its excellent food shops and cafes. Join a guided food tour to sample some of the best French delicacies - from flaky croissants and rich chocolates to artisanal cheeses and fine wines. As you stroll the picturesque streets, you'll learn about French culinary traditions and the history of this intellectual and artistic hub.

• Location: 6th arrondissement
• Hours: Tours typically run for 3-4 hours, often starting in the morning
• Price: Varies by tour company, typically around €95-€120 per person

Why Visit: To taste your way through some of Paris's best food offerings while exploring a historic and beautiful neighborhood.

Insider Tip: Come hungry and pace yourself - there's usually a lot of food to try on these tours!

Stroll Through Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Escape the urban bustle in this dramatic park in the 19th arrondissement, a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists. Built on the site of former gypsum quarries, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont features steep hills, a lake, waterfalls, and a high bridge, all centered around a rocky peak topped with a temple-like structure offering panoramic views of Paris. Its English-style landscaping and unique topography make it one of the most picturesque and surprising green spaces in the city.

• Location: 1 Rue Botzaris, 75019 Paris
• Hours: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM or later, depending on the season
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: To enjoy a beautiful, less crowded park with unique features and stunning city views.

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic and find a spot on one of the grassy slopes for a relaxing afternoon with a view.

Structuring Your Paris Adventure: A 7-Day Itinerary

Introduction

Paris offers an endless array of experiences, and while this itinerary covers many highlights, feel free to adjust it based on your interests and energy levels. Remember, part of the joy of Paris is in the unexpected discoveries you'll make as you explore.

Days 1-2: Classic Paris

• Start at the Eiffel Tower, climbing to the top for panoramic views
• Stroll through the Trocadéro Gardens and along the Seine
• Visit the Arc de Triomphe and walk down the Champs-Élysées
• Explore the Louvre (consider an evening visit on Wednesday or Friday)
• End the day with a Seine river cruise
• Begin at Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior only) and explore the surrounding islands
• Visit Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie
• Wander through the Latin Quarter, stopping at Shakespeare and Company bookstore
• Spend the afternoon at the Musée d'Orsay
• Enjoy dinner in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Days 3-4: Art and Culture

• Start with a food tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
• Visit the Rodin Museum and its gardens
• Explore the Army Museum and Napoleon's Tomb at Les Invalides
• End the day with a show at the Moulin Rouge
• Begin at the Centre Pompidou
• Wander through the Marais, visiting Place des Vosges and the Picasso Museum
• Shop at Le Bon Marché and La Grande Épicerie
• Spend the evening in the trendy Canal Saint-Martin area

Days 5-6: Hidden Gems and Local Life

• Explore Montmartre, including Sacré-Cœur and Place du Tertre
• Visit the Wall of Love and Musée de la Vie Romantique
• Discover the hidden gem of Musée Carnavalet
• End the day with a jazz performance in a cave club
• Start at the Luxembourg Gardens
• Explore the Catacombs
• Wander through the 14th arrondissement, stopping at the Paris Observatory
• Spend the evening in the lively Oberkampf neighborhood

Day 7: Versailles or Personalized Exploration

Option 1: Versailles

• Spend a full day exploring the Palace of Versailles and its gardens

Option 2: Personalized Paris

• Visit Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Explore the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
• Shop at the Marché aux Puces de Saint-Ouen (if it's a weekend)
• End your trip with a gourmet dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant

Closing Note

This itinerary covers many of Paris's highlights, but don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path. Some of the best experiences in Paris come from stumbling upon a charming café, a hidden garden, or a local neighborhood festival. Keep your eyes open, be flexible, and remember - there's always more to discover in Paris, leaving you with plenty of reasons to plan your next visit.

Conclusion

As the sun sets on your Parisian adventure, casting a golden glow over the Seine and illuminating the city's iconic skyline, you might find yourself back where we started - atop Montmartre, watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the distance. But now, with a week's worth of experiences under your belt, you'll see Paris through new eyes.

You've traced centuries of history through grand palaces and hidden alleyways, savored culinary delights from street crepes to Michelin-starred cuisine, and immersed yourself in art from prehistoric times to the cutting edge of contemporary creativity. You've seen Paris from the heights of the Eiffel Tower, the depths of the Catacombs, and every charming street and square in between.

Yet, as any true Parisian will tell you, the city always has more secrets to reveal. Perhaps you've discovered your own favorite hidden gem - a tucked-away café where the croissants are perfectly flaky, a tiny museum dedicated to an obscure passion, or a bench in a quiet garden that offers the best people-watching in the city.

This is the magic of Paris - it's a city that rewards both the first-time visitor ticking off bucket-list sights and the return traveler seeking deeper connections. It's a place where history and modernity dance in constant dialogue, where beauty can be found in grand monuments and quiet corners alike.

As you plan your journey home, you might find yourself already dreaming of your next visit. Will you dive deeper into the city's incredible museums? Explore more of its diverse neighborhoods? Or simply return to your favorite spots, seeing them again through the eyes of someone who now knows the rhythm of Parisian life?

Whatever draws you back, know that Paris will be waiting, ready to enchant you all over again. Because while you can capture the Eiffel Tower in a photograph or the taste of a perfect macaron in memory, the true essence of Paris - that ineffable mix of history, culture, beauty, and joie de vivre - can only be experienced by being here, walking its streets, and letting the city weave its spell around you.

So au revoir for now, but not goodbye. After all, as Audrey Hepburn famously said, "Paris is always a good idea." And now that you've experienced it for yourself, you know just how true those words are.