Paris, the capital of France, nicknamed the city of lights, is filled with a lot of history, culture, museums, fashion, food, and so much more. Where does one even begin…. I’d start with these top sights and depending on how much time one has, go from there.
Notre Dame Cathedral
After the horrendous fire in 2019 and much restoration work, Notre Dame is once again open to visitors. Definitely one of the best sights in Paris, it is possible to reserve, for free, an entrance-time up to two days before your visit. The official website: notredamedeparis.fr
While the cathedral has re-opened its doors, renovation work is still ongoing in the towers and at the apse of the cathedral. While no exact date has been set, tours to visit the towers are expected to resume soon.
Sainte Chapelle
A cathedral of stained glass, Sainte Chapelle was built between 1242-1248 by King Louis IX to house the crown of thorns. A Christian relic, the crown of thorns was removed from Sainte Chapelle during the revolution and is now kept in the Cathedral of Notre Dame.
Tickets to Sainte Chapelle may be purchased online. When buying an online ticket you will need to pick a timed entry slot. Combination tickets to the Conciergerie are available as well.
Official website: www.sainte-chapelle.fr/en
Conciergerie
located just next to Sainte Chapelle, the Conciergerie was originally a medieval palace, both a residence and a seat of power for the kings of France in the Middle Ages. In the 14th century the Royal residence relocated to the Louvre and the old palace became a courthouse and prison. During the revolution one of its most famous prisoners was Marie Antoinette and in the 19th century a commemorative chapel was built in the cell she is said to have stayed in. Combined tickets to the Conciergerie and Sainte Chapelle can be purchased on the Sainte Chapelle website.
Louvre
The Louvre was originally a palace residence for the Kings of France. During the French Revolution, the National Assembly decreed the palace be used as a museum and today it is one of the most famous museums in the world. A few of its most iconic pieces include, the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, the Raft Of The Medusa, the Coronation of Napoleon, and the list goes on… and on… The Louvre is open everyday except Tuesdays and some holidays. While it is always recommended to book a time-slot online, from June to August it is required. Official Website: louvre.fr/en
Orsay Museum
Picking up where the Louvre’s art collection leaves off, the Musee d’Orsay houses mainly French art from 1848-1914. The museum is housed in a former train station, the Gare d’Orsay and one can still see the old station’s famous clock, which dates to 1900. The Orsay Museum is open everyday except Mondays and some holidays. The official website: www.musee-orsay.fr/en
Tickets purchased online must reserve a time-slot. Admission without reserving a time-slot is available for purchase on site.
Cafes
Sitting and relaxing at an outdoor cafe is possibly one of the best parts of any trip to Paris. Eating a light meal, or an exquisite dessert, or just having a drink and soaking in Paris life around you.
Not hungry…visit..
Domain National du Palais Royal
Just north of the Louvre you’ll find shops housed in an old palace with a courtyard and public park. In 1624 Cardinal Richelieu turned the building here into a palace for himself. The Cardinal wanted to be near the Louvre and king Louis XIII. Today the courtyard is home to modern art displays, like the black and white striped columns by Daniel Buren and both, the courtyard and park, are a great place to just sit and enjoy Paris.
If you’ve seen all the above and still have time for more sightseeing in Paris here are a few additional places to see…
If you like opulence from the past:
Opéra Garnier:
This grand ”belle epoque” opera house from the 19th century has an extravagant lobby with chandeliers and a marble staircase.
Hotel de La Marine:
A historic building on the Place de la Concorde. Recently restored, it displays most of the rooms as they would have been in the 18th century.
If you haven’t seen enough art:
l’ Orangerie Museum, Rodin Museum, Picasso Museum, Marmottan Museum, etc…
If you like history
Cluny Museum:
A combination of art and history. This museum has art from the Middle Ages and is housed in the ancient remains of old Roman Baths.
Army Museum & Napoleon’s Tomb:
This museum has several sections spanning from medieval armor and cannons to World War I and II. In the middle of it all you’ll find Napoleon Bonaparte’s grand tomb.
Archeological Crypt of the ile de la Cite:
Roman ruins underneath modern day streets. There are also models and multimedia displays on how early Paris grew.
If you want a view
Montmartre & Sacré Coeur:
Montmartre is the highest hill in Paris and at its top is the striking white basilica of Sacre Coeur.
If you like the Iconic
Eiffel Tower:
This 1,000-foot-tall metal tower is probably the most iconic sight in Paris. If you haven’t seen it yet you’ll probably feel compelled to visit.
Arc de Triomphe:
Built by Napoleon to commemorate his victory at the battle of Austerlitz, this giant arch is another iconic symbol of Paris.
