Top 11 Things to Do in Paris｜First-Time Visitor Guide
Last Updated on 02/02/2025
This article features the Top 11 things to do in Paris for first-time travellers, including the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Moulin Rouge, and more. It provides detailed insights, attraction overviews, official websites, map links, opening hours, and ticket information.
Paris Travel Guide
Paris Travel Guide: Top Attractions, Itinerary, Transports, FAQs
Paris Top Attractions Map
This map includes the Top attractions in Paris, key metro stations, and recommended dining spots.
The map is set to English by default. Simply click on the 'Enlarge Map' icon in the top right corner to switch to your preferred language!
Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre)
Louvre Museum Overview
One of the best things to do in Paris is visiting the Louvre, one of the largest museums in the world, housing over 380,000 artworks. It is home to the renowned “Louvre’s Big Three”: Mona Lisa (top left), Venus de Milo (bottom left), and Winged Victory of Samothrace (top right). The iconic glass pyramid entrance, designed by I. M. Pei, is a must-see and a popular photo spot, both during the day and at night.
How Long to Spend at Louvre Museum?
- It’s recommended to allocate at least 4 hours for your visit.
Ka's Tips：The Louvre is open until 9:00 PM on Fridays. I arrived straight from the airport that day, landing at 6:00 PM, leaving me with just three hours to explore, and I had to queue in heavy rain (as seen in the picture – I couldn’t resist the cold rain and bought an umbrella for 12 euros... we Brits don’t usually use umbrellas!!!). In the end, I only had time for a quick overview and managed to spot the Louvre’s Big Three. For first-time visitors, if you have enough time, I recommend at least half a day to properly explore. Additionally, it's a good idea to buy tickets in advance to significantly shorten the wait for tickets.
Louvre Museum Detailed Review
Louvre Museum Review – Top 3, Glass Pyramid, Tickets & Transport
Louvre Museum Opening Hours
- Daily: 09:00 – 18:00
- Friday Close at 21:00
Louvre Museum Tickets & Tours
Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame)
Notre-Dame Cathedral Overview
Reopening to the public at the end of 2024, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a landmark and a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings. When I visited, it was still under restoration, but the surrounding barriers featured detailed information about the site and the reconstruction process, making it an interesting stop. Adding to the atmosphere, a beautifully melancholic violin performance echoed through the square. Exploring Notre-Dame is undoubtedly one of the must-visit things to do in Paris, whether admiring its exterior or stepping inside once it reopens.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Opening Hours
- Monday to Wednesday: 07:45–19:00
- Thursday: 07:45–22:00
- Friday: 07:45–19:00
- Saturday and Sunday: 08:15–19:30
Notre-Dame Cathedral Tickets & Tours
Seine River (La Seine)
Seine River Overview
The Seine River is the soul of Paris, with several iconic landmarks lining its banks. Taking a scenic river cruise or enjoying a leisurely stroll along the riverside is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris, offering breathtaking views of the city’s historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere.
How Long to Spend at a Seine River Cruise?
- A cruise departing from the Eiffel Tower lasts approximately 1 hour.
Seine River Cruise Operating Hours
- The Seine River is accessible all day
- Cruise company operating hours vary. Below are the hours for a recommended provider:
- April to September: Daily from 10:00 to 22:00, with departures every 30 minutes.
- October to March: Daily from 10:30 to 21:00, with departures every hour.
- December 24: The last departure is at 17:00.
Seine River Cruise Tickets & Tours
Eiffel Tower (Tour Eiffel)
Eiffel Tower Overview
The Eiffel Tower is the ultimate symbol of Paris and one of the top things to do in Paris. Whether you’re climbing to the top for a breathtaking panoramic view or watching the mesmerising light show at night, it’s an unmissable experience. I love capturing photos from the base, where you can truly appreciate the sheer grandeur of this iconic landmark.
Ka's Tips：If you walk along the Seine from Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower, you'll pass by Port de la Bourdonnais. If you're visiting during a festival, you'll find a food market there (as shown in the picture below).
How Long to Spend at Eiffel Tower?
- 2 Hours
Eiffel Tower Opening Hours
- 09:00 – 00:00
Eiffel Tower Tickets & Tours
Champs-Élysées Avenue
Champs-Élysées Avenue Overview
The world-famous shopping street, home to luxury brand stores, restaurants, and theatres, is the heart of shopping in Paris and a must-see for anyone compiling their list of things to do in Paris.
How Long to Spend at Champs-Élysées Avenue?
- If you’re not shopping, set aside about 30 minutes for photos. A great spot is the traffic island along the avenue, where you can capture a perfect shot facing the Arc de Triomphe—just be mindful of traffic and stay safe.
- If you’re shopping, plan for at least 3 hours, as some luxury boutiques may have queues.
Arc de Triomphe
Arc de Triomphe Overview
Built to commemorate Napoleon's military victories, the top offers a stunning view of Paris' radial street layout and is a fantastic addition to any list of things to do in Paris.
How Long to Spend at Arc de Triomphe?
- Allow around 30 minutes to 1 hour for photos from the outside
- If you plan to climb to the top, add an additional hour.
Arc de Triomphe Opening Hours
- 10:00 – 22:30
- Tuesday: 11:00 – 22:30
Arc de Triomphe Tickets & Tours
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette Overview
Paris' shopping paradise, renowned for its magnificent dome and diverse selection of brands, is particularly stunning during the Christmas decorations, making it a delightful addition to any list of things to do in Paris, especially during the holiday season.
How Long to Spend at Galeries Lafayette?
- 2 Hours
Galeries Lafayette Opening Hours
- Monday - Saturday：10:00 – 20:30
- Sunday：11:00 – 20:00
Moulin Rouge
Moulin Rouge Overview
A famous venue for the French Cancan, featuring stunning stage designs and exquisite dance performances, perfect for late-night entertainment and a memorable addition to your list of things to do in Paris.
How Long is the Moulin Rouge Show?
- Aprox. 2 Hours
Moulin Rouge Detailed Review
Moulin Rouge Review – Is it worth going? Tickets, Dress Code, Seating Guide
Moulin Rouge Opening Hours
- Moulin Rouge offers two performances every night, at 21:00 and 23:00, each lasting about 2 hours.
- You can also choose to enter early at 19:00, enjoy dinner, and then watch the 21:00 performance.
Moulin Rouge Tickets
Montmartre
Montmartre Overview
A hub for artists, known for its romantic streets, cafés, and murals, which have inspired countless masterpieces, making it a charming and culturally enriching addition to your list of things to do in Pari
If you’ve ever heard the line, 'When I walked through Montmartre, the streets were full of circus acts,' you’re probably familiar with the iconic Cantonese pop song "Free Travel" (自由行) by Wyman, one of Hong Kong’s most famous lyricists. Written over 20 years ago, this song became the soundtrack to many people’s travels, including mine. The lyrics mention various destinations, with Montmartre in Paris standing out as a place of inspiration. The imagery of strolling through this artistic district with its vibrant atmosphere instantly became a must-see on my own travel to-do list.
How Long to Spend at Montmartre?
- 3 Hours
Montmartre Tickets & Tours
Sacré-Cœur Basilica (Basilique du Sacré-Cœur)
Sacré-Cœur Basilica Overview
Located at the top of Montmartre Hill, this Byzantine-style white basilica offers stunning panoramic views of Paris. It is also a popular spot for street performers, making a visit a memorable experience and a definite must-add to any list of things to do in Paris.
Ka's Tips：This is one of the most popular tourist spots in Paris, so be extra cautious of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings.
How Long to Spend at Sacré-Cœur Basilica?
- If you’re just admiring the architecture and the panoramic views of Paris from the outside, about 30 to 45 minutes is sufficient.
- If you plan to climb to the top, allocate an extra hour.
- For photography and exploring the Montmartre district, it’s recommended to allow more time.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica Detailed Review
Sacré-Cœur Basilica Review – Highlights of Montmartre Landmark
Sacré-Cœur Basilica Opening Hours
- 06:30–22:30
Sacré-Cœur Basilica Tickets & Tours
Bastille Market (Marché Bastille)
Bastille Market Overview
A popular market in Paris offering fresh produce, local specialties, and handmade crafts, capturing the charm of a traditional French market atmosphere and providing a delightful glimpse into Parisian life, making it a great addition to your list of things to do in Paris.
How Long to Spend at Bastille Market?
- 2 Hours
Bastille Market Detailed Review
Bastille Market Review – History, Must-Try Foods, Hours, Transport
Bastille Market Opening Hours
- Every Thursday and Sunday morning.
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