Choose from 198 Fun Things to Do in Paris
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Brittany
Brittany is the western-most region in France, a peninsula on the coast that stretches out into the Atlantic and well past the Greenwich Mean Time line of its neighbor across the English Channel. Although Brittany is rich in history and its natural beauty is nothing short of breathtaking, it remains a hidden gem away from many foreign tourists because of its distance from Paris, everyone's favorite base for France vacations.
In French, Brittany is known as Bretagne and its inhabitants are called Bretons. The region's history goes back hundreds of thousands of years, as evidenced by BC-era stone arrangements and an ancient hearth discovery, as well as the stories of the Celtic tribes that inhabited the region at the turn of the millennium and eventually lost to the Romans, as so many did. Because of its location, Brittany has been attacked several times throughout the centuries, and both battle remnants and cultural influences of invaders can still be found today.
Visitors will find a largely untouched coastline in Brittany, with small fishing villages and lots of room to roam; hiking and biking through the region is a popular pastime. Cider and beer are the most popular drinks, and Brittany's oysters are some of the finest in the world.
Rennes
Rennes may be the region's most recognized city due to its proximity to Mont St-Michel just over the border in Normandy. Due north and just along the coast from Mont St-Michel is Brittany's very own St-Malo, a walled city whose ramparts give visitors an excellent view of the almost surreal tide movements of the region. It has a thriving student community that keeps it young and daily markets from Tuesdays through Saturdays that bring out the locals.
Brest
Brest lies just inland from the westernmost edge of Brittany and is largely undiscovered by the tourist hordes. Its harbor is home to an important military base, and its involvement in World War II left the city almost in ruins. However, there is still much to see, including the walled Chateau de Brest, the Tanguy Tower and the heavily Breton Recouvrance quarter of the city, where sometimes it may seem like a separate country all its own.
Nantes
Nantes is not in Brittany; rather, it is the capital of the Loire region. But its history is largely Breton, and no visit to Brittany is complete without a stop here. Don't miss the museum at the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany to learn about the area's heritage.
Address: France
From $ 461
Conciergerie
With its castle-like turrets and dramatic riverfront location, La Conciergerie is an imposing sight, stretching along the west side of the Île de la Cité. Once part of the Palais de la Cité, along with the neighboring Palais de Justice and Sainte Chapelle, the former medieval palace is best known for its role in the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror, when it served as a prison.
An estimated 3,000 prisoners were held at the Conciergerie prior to being taken to the guillotine during the Reign of Terror, among them Charlotte Corday, Madame Élisabeth, poet André Chénier and Marie Antoinette, and it continued to serve as a prison until it was decommissioned in 1914. Today, La Conciergerie is preserved as a National Monument and visitors can discover its dark legacy on a tour of the grounds, including the Prisoners’ Gallery, Marie-Antoinette’s dungeon, the Great Hall and the 14th-century Tour de l’Horloge, the Conciergerie’s 47-meter high Clock Tower, which displays Paris’ oldest clock.
Practical Info
The Conciergerie is located on Île de la Cité in central Paris, close to Notre Dame Cathedral, and is open daily from 9:30am-6pm. Adult admission at the time of writing is €8.50.
Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais - Île de la Cité, Paris, France
Hours: Open daily from 9.30am-6pm
Admission: Adult: €8.50
From $ 10
Bassin de la Villette (La Villette Basin)
Once a port for industry and trade, the Bassin de la Villette is now a Parisian hub for travelers looking to explore the arts and culture that make the City of Lights so unique. A popular youth hostel, three-star hotel, famous restaurants and plenty of live performance venues draw travelers to Bassin de la Villette, where it’s possible to escape the hustle of Paris streets and relax into the scenic waterway.
While this destination is worth a visit any time of year, the summer’s month-long Paris-Plage festival is among the best reasons to make a stop. Seaside banks become almost resort like as local rolls out deck chairs and floating wooden cafes pass by selling strong coffees and warm pastries. Public picnic areas and classic dance floors draw locals and tourists out of doors to pass summer nights swaying in the ocean breeze.
Practical Info
Bassin de la Villette is within walking distance of the Riquet and Laumiere Metro stops.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 23
13th Arrondissement
Paris is made up of 20 arrondissements or neighborhoods, which are arranged in a clockwise spiral of ascending numbers from the 1st arrondissement in the center. Southeast of the city center along the left bank of the River Seine, the 13th arrondissement is best known as the home of Paris’s booming Asian Quarter or Quartier Asiatique.
The Basics
Less touristy than other parts of Paris, the 13th arrondissement has a rich Chinese, Cambodian, and Vietnamese community and is a great place to find Asian restaurants and shops as well as one of the largest Chinese New Year Celebrations in Europe. The 13th district has also become something of an open-air museum, with dozens of massive works of street art, and several walking tours of the district highlight these urban pieces.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The 13th arrondissement is great for visitors wishing to explore off the beaten tourist path.
- Explore the lesser-known Butte aux Cailles neighborhood to view the area’s abundant street art.
- Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for lots of walking in this hilltop district.
How to Get There
The 13th arrondissement is easily accessible by public transportation. Metro lines 6, 7, and 14 make numerous stops throughout the neighborhood. Not far from the Latin Quarter, it’s a nice walk from central Paris along the River Seine to the 13th arrondissement.
When to Get There
The less-visited 13th arrondissement is wonderful to explore any time of year. The neighborhood is particularly lively during the Chinese New Year, in January or February, when the streets fill with brightly lit lanterns and colorful costume parades. The festival features plenty of children’s activities, traditional music performances, and authentic food.
The French National Library
The 13th arrondissement is also home to the massive French National Library. Comprised of four 25-story glass towers, the library houses one of the largest collections of books in the world with well over 10 million titles. The library also contains numerous historical texts including thousands of ancient Greek manuscripts, as well as antique ceramics, coins, sculptures, and King Louis XIV’s globes.
Address: 13th Arrondissement, Paris, France
From $ 110
Gourmet Chocolate Museum
In the ritzy Opera district of Paris, the Gourmet Chocolate Museum (Musée Gourmand du Chocolat) dedicates itself to the history of chocolate, with plenty of tastings along the way.
Set over three floors, the museum is full of exhibitions, with its first level dedicated to chocolate’s Mexican origins. See the original tools the Olmecs, Mayans and Aztecs used to mix cocoa with chili to create a delicious drink more valuable to these ancient civilizations than gold.
The second floor showcases chocolate’s passage into Europe during the 16th century, when Spanish conquistadors brought cocoa back from Mexico and turned it into the sweet concoction we know today. During the kitchen demonstrations on the third floor, visitors can watch chocolate tablets being made and taste all kinds of gourmet cocoa treats.
Information boards, demonstrations and videos are all multilingual. There are plenty of activities to keep children entertained, too; completed puzzle sheets earn kids a chocolate gift.
Practical Info
The museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m., with the last entry allowed at 5 p.m.To get to the Musée Gourmand du Chocolat on 28 boulevard Bonne-Nouvelle, take the metro to Bonne Nouvelle station. Tickets cost 9 EUR for adults and 6 EUR for youth, while those under the age of 6 are admitted for free. Plan on allocating an hour or two to the museum and its delights.
Address: 28 boulevard Bonne-Nouvelle, Paris, France
Hours: Daily, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Admission: Adults 9 EUR, Youth 6 EUR, under 6 are free
From $ 13
6th Arrondissement
For many, the 6th Arrondissement is the quintessential Parisian neighborhood, complete with cafes, wine shops, patisseries, small art museums and shops lining its streets. Situated on the left bank of the Seine, the walkable neighborhood is home to the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain-des-Pres, Medici Fountain and the beautifully manicured Luxembourg Gardens.
Saint-Germain-des-Pres has long served as the literary and intellectual heart of the city, and some of Paris’s most iconic cafes are here, including Les Deux Magots, Cafe de Flore, Brasserie Lipp and Le Precope. Each make for a perfect people watching perch.
Practical Info
Access the 6th Arrondissement from Odeon, St. Germain, Solferino, Musee’ d’Orsay, rue du Bac and Sevres Babylone metro stations.
Address: 6th Arrondissement, Paris, France
From $ 29
Crazy Horse Cabaret
Held in an intimate underground venue, the Crazy Horse cabaret’s provocative yet sophisticated burlesque-style show celebrates femininity and specializes in the art of seduction, with a series of elaborately choreographed routines performed by highly trained dancers wearing custom-made red-soled Louboutins, bob wigs, bright red lipstick—and often little else. Avant-garde artist Alain Bernardin established the venerated Crazy Horse de Paris in 1951.
The Basics
During the cabaret’s 90-minute Totally Crazy show, audience members witness some of the troupe’s most classic routines, including the well-known Philippe Decouflé–choreographed Crazy Horse Guards, which sees the Crazy Girls donning bearskin hats and skimpy royal guard uniforms. The venue also hosts newer acts created by the likes of Dita von Teese and Ali Mahdavi. You can book show tickets in advance or upgrade your experience to include VIP extras such as Champagne and appetizers. You can also pair a visit here with a pre- or post-show dinner at the nearby art deco brasserie, Chez Francis.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dress respectably. Ties and jackets are not required, but shorts, sneakers, and sportswear are not allowed.
- Performances contain partial nudity and may not be suitable for kids.
- For the ultimate indulgence, splurge on a private VIP booth to sip Champagne and snack on caviar during the show.
- Seats are not reservable; they are assigned and allocated on the night of the show.
- The Crazy Horse is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Crazy Horse de Paris venue is on Avenue George V near the Champs-Elysees. Both the bus (lines 42, 63, 72, 80, and 92) and the Metro (line 9) connect to the nearby Alma–Marceau station. Alternatively, take the RER C line to Pont de l’Alma or the RER A line to Charles de Gaulle–Etoile.
When to Get There
Shows take place twice a night, at 8:30pm and 11pm, Sunday to Friday; on Saturdays there are three performances, at 7pm, 9:30pm, and midnight. Arrive early to catch the pre-show burlesque act, which begins 30 minutes before the main performance.
Which Paris Cabaret is Right for You?
Paris is home to several legendary cabaret venues, and choosing between the two most renowned—Moulin Rouge and Crazy Horse de Paris—can be difficult. If you want Las Vegas–style acts and fanfare—and to see the world-famous cancan—Moulin Rouge is the cabaret for you. Crazy Horse, meanwhile, offers artistic and slightly racier performances in a smaller, more intimate setting.
Address: 12 Avenue George V, Paris 75008, France
Admission: Check website for show prices
From $ 98
Bois de Vincennes
Spread over an incredible 2,400 acres (that's around 3 times the size of New York's famous Central Park), the public park of Bois de Vincennes (Vicennes Wood) has been offering Parisians welcome respite from the urban bustle since the 12th century. Originally designed by Baron Haussman as a royal hunting ground for Louis VII, the collection of lakes and woodlands also form part of the grounds of the 14th-century Chateau de Vincennes.
Earning the nickname of the 'Lungs of Paris,' the park offers a seemingly endless stretch of greenery on the cusp of the city, with a vast network of walking, cycling and horseback riding trails spanning over 32km, as well as a number of attractions. Popular highlights include the Daumesnil Lake, where you can take a scenic boat trip out to the two islets; the Bois de Vicennes Buddist Temple, with its pretty wooden pavilion and towering Buddha statue; and the Lac des Minimes, where a footbridge leads out to the island restaurant. At the East End of the park, the idyllic Parc Floral is home to an impressive array of flowers and botanical gardens, with its central stage hosting summer plays and concerts; and the Parc Zoologique de Paris (Zoo de Vincennes) is a 38-acre enclosed zoo housing giraffes, giant pandas and monkeys among its sizable collection and featuring a large artificial hill that offers great views over the park.
Earning the nickname of the 'Lungs of Paris,' the park offers a seemingly endless stretch of greenery on the cusp of the city, with a vast network of walking, cycling and horseback riding trails spanning over 32km, as well as a number of attractions. Popular highlights include the Daumesnil Lake, where you can take a scenic boat trip out to the two islets; the Bois de Vicennes Buddist Temple, with its pretty wooden pavilion and towering Buddha statue; and the Lac des Minimes, where a footbridge leads out to the island restaurant. At the East End of the park, the idyllic Parc Floral is home to an impressive array of flowers and botanical gardens, with its central stage hosting summer plays and concerts; and the Parc Zoologique de Paris (Zoo de Vincennes) is a 38-acre enclosed zoo housing giraffes, giant pandas and monkeys among its sizable collection and featuring a large artificial hill that offers great views over the park.
Address: Bois de Vincennes, Paris, France
From $ 10
Giverny
Known less for its name and more for the lily ponds that inspired Claude Monet's iconic paintings, Giverny is a provincial gem located just a short train journey from Paris. The tiny village, home to only 500 inhabitants, is an area of outstanding natural beauty, whose landscapes are comprised of ponds smothered in water lilies, weeping willow trees, and quaint painted bridges. Escape from Paris' metropolitan mayhem and spend the day in Giverny, a heaven for fans of Impressionism—you're sure to come back full of inner peace.
The Basics
When to Get There
The Basics
The best way to visit Giverny is on a day trip from Paris. All tours cover Monet's home (Maison et Jardins de Claude Monet), a beautifully preserved pastel-pink house flanked by gardens filled with flowers and a famous Japanese bridge, and the Museum of Impressionisms (Musee des Impressionnismes), dedicated to various forms of Impressionist painting.
Perfect for travelers short on time, many tours combine Giverny and the house of Monet with a visit to the Palace of Versailles or Auvers-sur-Oise, the village in which Vincent van Gogh spent his final days. Alternatively, more active travelers can take Monet's garden bike tour and pedal down Rue Claude Monet past an array of water gardens, flower beds, and the cemetery where Monet was laid to rest.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to Giverny
Giverny is about 45 miles (75 kilometers) from Paris by road. To get there by train from the city, catch the SNCF from the Saint-Lazare Paris train station to Vernon on the Paris-Rouen-Le Havre line. From Vernon you can catch a local bus, or opt to hire a taxi or bicycle. The majority of tours include round-trip train or minibus transport from Paris; the journey, along the banks of the Seine River and through the sunflower fields of Normandy, is a feast for the eyes.
- A Giverny tour is ideal for art enthusiasts.
- There are no ATMs or currency exchange bureaus in the village, so be sure to bring cash.
- Although accommodations are available, the village's small size means availability is limited; book in advance if you plan on staying overnight.
Giverny is about 45 miles (75 kilometers) from Paris by road. To get there by train from the city, catch the SNCF from the Saint-Lazare Paris train station to Vernon on the Paris-Rouen-Le Havre line. From Vernon you can catch a local bus, or opt to hire a taxi or bicycle. The majority of tours include round-trip train or minibus transport from Paris; the journey, along the banks of the Seine River and through the sunflower fields of Normandy, is a feast for the eyes.
When to Get There
Between November and Easter weekend, Monet's house, along the majority of Giverny's restaurants and guesthouses, are closed to the public, rendering a visit to the village far less rewarding than at other times of year. Although very busy in the summer months, large tour groups fail to make the hamlet any less beautiful.
Address: Rue Claude Monet, Giverny 27620, France
Admission: Varies
From $ 65
Carnavalet Museum (Musee Carnavalet)
Visitors shouldn’t let the somewhat enigmatic name fool them into thinking this is a peculiar museum; the Carnavalet Museum is indeed one of Paris’ finest. Initially an idea of Baron Haussmann, who carried out extensive renovation works all around Paris in the late 1800s, the museum retraces Paris’ history all the way from the Lutèce Roman village it once was to the vibrant metropolis it has now become. Located in two 16th-century lavish townhouses – formerly known as Hôtel de Carnavalet (where an icon of French literature, the famous marquise de Sévigné, lived) and Hôtel d’Orgeval – in Le Marais, the architectural setting of the museum is just as captivating at the collection it houses.
Speaking of which, the museum’s collection totalizes 580,000 artefacts and comprises a magnificent sculpture of Louis XIV, as well as about 2,600 paintings, 20,000 drawings, 300,000 engravings and 150,000 photographs, 2,000 modern sculptures and 800 pieces of furniture, thousands of ceramics and several thousand other objects, including some of Marie-Antoinette’s personal effects. In fact, the Musée Carnavalet is just as much a history museum as it is an art museum, since the 100+ rooms retrace the history of Parisian interior design and artistic trends, as well as the significant moments of the city’s long, agitated history and its artistic innovations.
The compact but lavish gardens located between the two townhouses are also well worth a detour; they are home to 1,000 plant species and are decorated in the utmost French tradition of symmetry, geometry and order.
Practical Info
Musée Carnavalet is located on rue de Sévigné in the 3rd arrondissement in central Paris, near Place de la Bastille, Pompidou and Ile Saint-Louis. It is reachable by metro at stops Chemin Vert and Saint-Paul. The permanent collection is free to visit, but temporary exhibition and conferences cost €6.
Address: 16 rue des Francs-Bourgeois, Paris, France
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 6pm
Admission: €6.
From $ 54
Basilica of St Denis
In a northern suburb of the City of Light, the Basilica of St Denis is a stone abbey dating back to the medieval time period. Construction began as early as 1135, so it’s a remarkable landmark to see still standing today. The cathedral was the first built in France in the Gothic architectural style, noted for its intricate stained glass and a statue collection representative of the era. It is attributed with signaling the shift from Romantic to Gothic styles of architecture. Though it is one of the lesser known churches of France, it is respected both for its beauty and historical and cultural significance.
The church is also the final resting place for much of France’s royalty. A walk past the burial chambers and tombs of kings and queens of France tells centuries of the country’s history. Long a place of pilgrimage, all but three of France’s monarchs from the 10th to 18th century were buried there. With all of its history, many opt to take a guided tour through the church or add it on to a day of sightseeing in Paris.
Practical Info
The basilica is located in the Saint Denis suburb of Paris, best approached by metro line 13 (the station is Basilique de Saint-Denis.) The travel time is about 20 minutes. Tickets cost 9€ and can be purchased in person or in advance online. The area dedicated to worship is free to enter.
Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, Saint-Denis 93200, France
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-4:45pm, Sun 12-4:45pm
Admission: 9€
From $ 10
Basilique du Sacr e-Coeur
With its gigantic dome and snow-white facade gazing down over the city from the Butte de Montmartre (Montmartre Hill), the Basilica of the Sacred Heart—or Basilique du Sacré-Coeur—is one of Paris’ most magnificent monuments.
The Basics
There are several options for exploring the grand basilica. See it as part of a Paris city tour or on a walking tour of the atmospheric Montmartre neighborhood. You can also book a guided tour of the lavish interiors to see highlights such as the apse mosaic, the grand organ, and the crypt. Visitors can also climb the 234-step spiral staircase to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the entire city, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Access to the Basilica is free, but you’ll have to pay an admission fee to visit the Dome.
- There are no official guided tours of the Basilica as it is a place of silent prayer.
- There is a step-free entrance at the back of the Basilica, and the church is wheelchair accessible except for the dome and the crypt.
How to Get There
The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is located on Rue du Chevalier de la Barre in the Montmartre district of Paris. To get there by metro, take line 2 to Anvers station, then walk up Montmartre hill or ride the funicular.
When to Get There
The Basilica is open daily all year round, but it can get crowded in peak season, so opt for an early morning visit to avoid the crowds. For budding photographers wanting to capture the views, the most flattering light happens just before sunset, although note that it can be busy at this time.
A Walking Tour of Montmartre
The Basilique du Sacré-Coeur is one of the most memorable sights of Montmartre, but the bohemian ‘village’ has plenty of other attractions. A walking tour means you can explore like a local, stopping by famous landmarks such as the Moulin Rouge and the Artists’ Square; follow in the footsteps of artists like Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso; and explore the many shops, galleries, restaurants, and cafés.
Address: Place du Parvis du Sacre-Coeur, 75018, France
Hours: Basilica open daily 6am – 10:30pm; dome open daily 8:30am – 8pm (May through September) and 9am – 5pm (October through April)
Admission: Free
From $ 13
7th Arrondissement
The 7th arrondissement of Paris is home to some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, and Napoleon’s tomb. Situated on the left bank of the River Seine, the 7th arrondissement is a charming mix of narrow cobblestone streets, bustling street markets, quaint cafés, and local shops.
The Basics
For first-time visitors, the 7th arrondissement is the perfect place to begin an exploration of Paris. Take a sightseeing tour to see the district’s highlights and enjoy a great introduction to Paris culture, history, and architecture. You’ll admire views of the Eiffel Tower, wander the Musée Rodin Sculpture Garden, discover quaint cobbled side streets, and sample traditional French foods.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The 7th arrondissement is a must for first-time Paris visitors.
- Book a walking tour to see neighborhood highlights and hidden treasures.
- Wear comfortable shoes and plan to spend a lot of time walking.
- Book Eiffel Tower tickets and tours in advance to avoid long wait times.
How to Get There
It is easy to get to the 7th arrondissement using public transportation from anywhere in Paris. Metro lines 6, 8, 10, 12, and 13 service the arrondissement with stops including Bir-Hakeim (for the Eiffel Tower), Musée d'Orsay, and Varenne (for Les Invalides and Musée Rodin).
When to Get There
The 7th arrondissement is worth exploring any time of year. If visiting during the summer months, consider booking tours and museum admission tickets ahead of time to avoid long lines. If you’re on a budget, you’ll find the best deals visiting November through February and also enjoy less tourist crowds, though with fewer services.
Shopping in the 7th Arrondissement
The 7th arrondissement boasts a vast array of shops, from small speciality stores and consignment shops to high-end boutiques and large department stores. Fashion enthusiasts must visit Le Bon Marché, Paris’s oldest and most prestigious department store. Showcasing the finest designer brands and gorgeous window displays, Le Bon Marché is like an art gallery for fashion lovers.
Address: 7th Arrondissement, Paris, France
From $ 68
9th Arrondissement
The 9th Arrondissement is located on the Right Bank in Paris and is home to a number of places of cultural, historical and architectural interest. It also boasts more hotels than any other arrondissement in Paris, so it can be a great area to base yourself to explore the city. Here you will find the Palais Garnier, which is home to the Paris Opera, as well as the Musee Grevin, a waxwork museum featuring more than 500 characters from French history. As you walk around the arrondissement, look for commemorative plaques outside of homes indicating notable landmarks. Be sure to check out the covered passageways near Boulevard Haussmann and rue Vivienne. Dating to the 19th century, these were precursors to the modern shopping mall.
The 9th Arrondissement is also home to several major department stores, including Printemps and Galeries Lafayette, both of which offer good skyline views of the city. In the young and vibrant South of Pigalle district, you can find a variety of restaurants, bars and cafes, and in Little Tokyo you can discover some of the best Japanese food in Paris.
Practical Info
The 9th Arrondissement covers less than one square mile. To get there, take Metro line 3, 7 or 8 to the Opera station; line 7 or 9 to the Chausette d’Antin La Fayette station or line 8 or 9 to the Grands Boulevards station.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 87
58 Tour Eiffel Restaurant
Chef Alain Soulard serves up French cuisine on the first level of the Eiffel Tower at 58 Tour Eiffel, a name that references the height in meters of the restaurant's kitchen range from the ground. The2-story eatery features a modern interior design and is surrounded by glass windows so you can take in views of Paris and the tower's intricate metal architecture while you dine.
The Basics
Eating at 58 Tour Eiffel is one of the best ways to escape the tower's crowds and get more out of your visit. You can sit down and relax before or after heading up to the Eiffel Tower's second level or summit for the requisite look down on the city (which may require an additional ticket purchase). Make your lunch or dinner reservation directly with 58 Tour Eiffel, or take a tour that combines your meal with other Parisian experiences such as a Seine River cruise, a city tour, a show at the Moulin Rouge, or a trip to Versailles.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The restaurant is not available for drinks only; you must have a full meal.
- Large bags are not permitted at the tower.
- The restaurant is accessible for guests with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Walking, taxi, and public transit are the best ways to reach the Eiffel Tower, located in the 7th arrondissement on the banks of the Seine. By public transport, head to the Bir-Hakeim, Trocadéro, or Ecole Militaire metro station or the Champ de Mars–Tour Eiffel RER station. Upon arrival, if you have a booking, go to the restaurant welcome desk on the esplanade to receive a priority-access ticket for the elevator.
When to Get There
The restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. You may want to select one or the other based on the environment you're looking for—lunch is more casual and kid-friendly with light meals served in a picnic-style basket, known as a chic picnic, while dinner features a more sophisticated atmosphere and dishes.
Other Things to Do at the Eiffel Tower
It may seem that visiting the Eiffel Tower consists simply of riding up to the viewing platforms, taking photos, and heading back down. But this is far from the truth. In addition to 58 Tour Eiffel, on the first level is an immersive show and interactive exhibits. The second level features shops and Le Jules Verne by Alain Ducasse, and the summit is home to Gustave Eiffel's restored office and the Champagne Bar. Perhaps most interesting is the backstage tour, during which you can get a look at the 1889 machinery used to operate the tower’s lifts.
Address: 58 Tour Eiffel, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
From $ 54
Beauvais-Till e Airport (BVA)
Beauvais–Tillé Airport (BVA) opened in 1956 and is home to four budget airlines (Ryan Air, Wizz, Blue Air and Air Moldova) flying to and from 60 destinations in 21 countries throughout Europe—from Poland to Ireland—as well as North Africa. The airport has two terminals and handles nearly 4.5 million passengers each year.
Travelers can utilize transfer services to and from the airport with destinations such as Paris and Disneyland Paris. WiFi is available in both terminals, while most passenger facilities are in Terminal Two, including shops, restaurants, banks, currency change stations and ATMs.
Practical Info
Located in Tillé, 85 km (53 miles) northwest of Paris, Beauvais–Tillé Airport is accessible via car off the N1. TER Picardie runs a regular train service between Beauvais railway station and Paris Gard du Nord, taking about an hour and a half.
Address: Route de l’aéroport, Tillé, Beauvais, Picardy 60000, France
Hours: Daily 6am–11:15pm
From $ 24
Alma Bridge (Pont de l'Alma)
Pont de l’Alma is a Parisian bridge built in 1854 in commemoration of the Franco-British alliance’s victory over the Russian army during the Crimean War. The bridge underwent complete rebuilding in the 1970s in order to accommodate the rapidly increasing road and river traffic – only the statues were retained from the original structure. The arch bridge is now 42 meters large and 153 meters long, and links the right and left banks of the Seine River.
Pont de l’Alma offers splendid views of the Eiffel Tower and is often the go-to location for photographers wanting to capture Paris. What made the bridge a household name worldwide, however, is the role it played in Lady Diana’s death; indeed, she perished in a car crash at the entrance of the bridge’s tunnel in 1997. The Flame of Liberty at the bridge's north end has become an unofficial memorial to her memory.
Practical Info
Pont de l’Alma is located close to Palais de Tokyo and Quai de Branly in western Paris. It can be reached by metro via Pont de l’Alma and Alma-Marceau stations (lines RER C and 9). It is not advised to get to Pont de l’Alma house by car as parking is scarce and complicated.
Address: Paris, Ile-de-France, France
From $ 58
8th Arrondissement
The 8th arrondissement (neighborhood), one of Paris’ 20 districts, is probably best known for the famous boulevard Champs-Élysées. With sidewalks lined by trees, high-end shops, and fashion boutiques, the boulevard is also home to the Arc de Triomphe and the Place de la Concorde, as well as the Élysée Palace (the official residence of the President of France). On one end of the Champs-Élysées is the Arc de Triomphe, which offers sweeping views of the city from its top. On the other end of the Champs-Élysées is the Grand Palais, an historic building dedicated “to the glory of French art.” The Grand Palais is now a museum and an exhibition hall that is home to an impressive art collection. The 8th arrondissement is probably best known as a retail district, where posh shoppers come to sip a beverage at one of the area’s numerous cafes or restaurants, then browse name-brand boutiques like Chanel, Christian Dior, and Louis Vuitton.
Practical Info
Located on the right bank of the Seine river and centered around the Champs-Élysées, the 8th arrondissement is one of Paris's main business districts and employs more people than any other single neighborhood in the city.
Address: Paris, France
From $ 74
Bastille
With its mixture of gourmet markets, cutting-edge drinking holes, and historic landmarks, Paris' Bastille neighborhood allows travelers to escape the city's bustling center and discover the "Parisian's Paris." Boutique and bohemian, Bastille buzzes with creativity, most evident in the shops and artist studios that populate its streets. The heart of the area is Place de la Bastille, the former home of the Bastille fortress, where traffic whirls at a roundabout topped by the 170-foot (52-meter) Colonne de Juillet.
The Basics
Due to its historical significance, the Bastille district is an integral part of many Paris city tours. Specialized excursions that focus solely on the Bastille arrondissement are also available, and one of the best ways to absorb the culture and French history is on a food tour that centers on the area's thriving culinary scene and markets. Feast on French delicacies and enjoy wine tasting at Marche d'Aligre market, browse shops selling charcuterie and cheese, and stroll along Promenade Plantee, a 19th-century rail viaduct transformed into the world's first elevated park. Other Bastille highlights include the Viaduc des Arts, a modern version of an old Paris viaduct, Port de l'Arsenal, and Opera Bastille, an innovative structure whose interior can be explored on a guided tour.
How to Get to Bastille
Bastille is easily reachable by car, train, or on foot from the center of Paris. The Bastille metro station is serviced by Line 5—it takes about 40 minutes to reach from central Paris landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. If you're time-rich, walking to the Bastille district along the banks of the Seine River will reveal Paris' finer details. During the 90-minute stroll along Quai d'Orsay, you'll pass the famous Louvre museum pyramid, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and a scattering of bridges and parks.
For a half-day hike, follow the Promenade Plantee on a 2.7-mile (4.5-km) trail to Bois de Vincennes, former royal hunting grounds home to the Parc Zoologique and Parc Floral de Paris.
The Basics
Due to its historical significance, the Bastille district is an integral part of many Paris city tours. Specialized excursions that focus solely on the Bastille arrondissement are also available, and one of the best ways to absorb the culture and French history is on a food tour that centers on the area's thriving culinary scene and markets. Feast on French delicacies and enjoy wine tasting at Marche d'Aligre market, browse shops selling charcuterie and cheese, and stroll along Promenade Plantee, a 19th-century rail viaduct transformed into the world's first elevated park. Other Bastille highlights include the Viaduc des Arts, a modern version of an old Paris viaduct, Port de l'Arsenal, and Opera Bastille, an innovative structure whose interior can be explored on a guided tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A Bastille tour is ideal for history and food lovers.
- The neighborhood is most often visited on half-day walking tours of Paris.
- Book a tour of Opera Bastille in advance to see the opera house's interior.
Bastille is easily reachable by car, train, or on foot from the center of Paris. The Bastille metro station is serviced by Line 5—it takes about 40 minutes to reach from central Paris landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower. If you're time-rich, walking to the Bastille district along the banks of the Seine River will reveal Paris' finer details. During the 90-minute stroll along Quai d'Orsay, you'll pass the famous Louvre museum pyramid, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and a scattering of bridges and parks.
For a half-day hike, follow the Promenade Plantee on a 2.7-mile (4.5-km) trail to Bois de Vincennes, former royal hunting grounds home to the Parc Zoologique and Parc Floral de Paris.
When to Get There
At night, Bastille comes to life with an eclectic mix of swanky wine bars, raucous taverns, atmospheric jazz clubs, and cutting-edge cocktail bars. Begin your evening with fine French fare at an intimate bistro and end your night dancing among Parisians.
Address: Place de la Bastille, Paris, Ile-de-France 75004, France
Admission: Free
From $ 16
Clos Montmartre
If you were just walking by Clos Montmartre on a trip to the Sacre-Couer, you might assume it was just a particularly lovely community garden dotted with peach trees and vines. Actually, the Clos is the oldest working vineyard in Paris, and on clear days, from here you can see all the way out to the Eiffel Tower.
The best time to visit Clos Montmartre is during Fête des Vendanges — the harvest festival — when the grapes from the Clos are taken over to Montmartre town hall to be fermented and turned into around 1,500 bottles of gamay and pinot noir.
Practical Info
At rue des Saules and rue Saint Vincent, you'll need to arrange a visit to Clos Montmartre with the Montmartre tourist office, which is close by at Place du Tertre. The tour is free, though you pay for the tasting, and generally it's better to be in a large group if you want to gain entry. For the harvest festival you can stroll right into the working vineyard. It's generally held in early October, but do check in advance.
Address: Rue des Saules, Paris, France
From $ 29