Paris Must visits: Experience Paris' Most Iconic Sights

July 29, 2024

Paris Must visits: Experience Paris' Most Iconic Sights

Experience the best of Paris - Explore famous landmarks, luxurious shops, and beautiful gardens for a perfect blend of history, culture, and relaxation.

South of the River Seine and Notre Dame in Paris lies the Latin Quarter, a vibrant neighborhood characterized by its bustling cobblestone streets, historic sites, and excellent dining options. Rich with hidden treasures, famous authors residences, and some of the oldest churches in Paris.

Stroll through the same streets that inspired Victor Hugo, Ernest Hemingway, and Woody Allen, and you'll quickly fall in love with this charming part of Paris. Renowned as the student district, the Latin Quarter houses Europe's oldest university, the Sorbonne. Above all, the Latin Quarter is famous for its fantastic spots to purchase local food and savor delicious French specialties. 

Continue to the Notre Dame Cathedral. A must-visit landmark for every Paris trip. The architectural masterpiece of French Gothic design stands proudly on the Ile de la Cité in the heart of Paris. Renowned for its striking facade, intricate sculptures, and stunning stained glass windows, Notre Dame has been a symbol of Parisian heritage and culture since its completion in the 14th century.

Spend time exploring the exterior and interior of the cathedral. The facade features three elaborate portals adorned with statues, and the interior boasts magnificent stained glass windows, including the famous rose windows. However, entry here is completely free. Note: The cathedral's reopening remains scheduled for December 8, 2024.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Walk a short distance to the Sainte-Chapelle. Spend time gazing at the intricately detailed windows, especially during a sunny day when the colors are most vibrant. The upper chapel is where the stained glass windows are, while the lower chapel, which is more modest, was used by the palace staff. The chapel was originally built to house these holy relics, some of which can still be seen. The entrance fee is included in the price of the tour.

Head to the Louvre, the world's largest Art Museum and a historic monument in Paris, housing approximately 38,000 objects from prehistory to the 21st century. Unfortunately, you won't have time to explore the interior during the walking tour. But be sure to drop by another time. The same entry rules apply as described above. But there is always time for a picture with the iconic glass pyramid. 

Louvre

Afterward, walk through the Tuileries Garden and learn about its history. Have a picnic in the garden or eat at one of the cafes in the area. The Tuileries Garden is a public garden located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, created by Catherine de Medici in 1564.

Admire the numerous sculptures by artists such as Rodin, Maillol, and Giacometti that are placed throughout the garden. Enjoy the meticulously manicured lawns, beautiful sculptures, and fountains. Take a seat by one of the ponds and watch the world go by while you enjoy your snacks.

Walk from the Tuileries Garden to Place de la Concorde, then continue along the Champs-Élysées. On your way, you can view the Luxor Obelisk, an ancient Egyptian obelisk decorated with hieroglyphics, standing at the center of Place de la Concorde. Enjoy window shopping and grab a bite at the numerous cafes and restaurants along the Champs-Élysées. Photograph the grand architecture and monuments along the avenue, including the Grand Palais and Petit Palais.

Next stop is the famous Arc de Triomphe. Commissioned by Napoleon after his victory at Austerlitz in 1805, the Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Ascend the 284 steps to the viewing platform for a panoramic view of Paris and landmarks such as La Défense and the Eiffel Tower. Inside the Arc, there is a small museum detailing its history and significance. The entrance fee is included in the tour price.

Arc de Triomphe

You already saw it from the distance. Now it's time to get up close to the Eiffel Tower. Take a short metro ride and enjoy one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Stroll through the landscaped gardens surrounding the tower. Your guide can certainly show you some great photo spots around the Eiffel Tower.

Eat a delicious crepe while you walk around and enjoy the last moments of the walking tour. But the day is not over for you after that. Book a ticket for the Eiffel Tower in advance and enjoy the wonderful view from one of the observation decks. You can also take a relaxing Seine River Cruise directly from the foot of the Eiffel Tower. It offers a unique perspective of Paris's landmarks from the water. Everyone will find something to enjoy in Paris.

Eiffel Tower

Hey curious traveler, visiting Paris soon? Hey curious traveler, visiting Paris soon? At City Unscripted, we create personalized city experiences led by passionate locals who share Paris’ stories in a way no guidebook can. Whether you’re seeking hidden gems or exploring iconic landmarks, your experience is flexible and designed just for you — without the rigid structure of a tour. Discover the culture, history, and character of Paris with a host who adapts the journey to your interests, making every moment feel unique and unscripted.

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There is no better way to see a city than with a friend who lives there. This is why we carefully match guests with their perfect host based on interested, personality and type of experience so they can discover a city beyond the tourist trail.

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