Unique Things To Do In Paris

Are you planning a trip to France and looking for the ultimate guide to Paris?

Paris—known as the City of Light —is a dream destination for travelers all over the world. With its rich history, breathtaking architecture, world-class art, it’s no wonder this iconic city draws millions each year. I can never get enough of Paris and everything it offers, although some people don’t agree!

Planning a trip to Paris can be overwhelming, but I’ve created this Ultimate Paris Travel Guide with 15 Best & Unique Things To Do In Paris to help solve all your travel dilemmas. Whether you’re unsure about where to stay, what to do, when to visit, or how to get around, what is the perfect itinerary this guide has you covered.

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The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide

How many days should you stay in Paris?

While it’s possible to see the main highlights of Paris in just one day, I highly recommend staying at least 3–4 days to truly experience the city. To help, I’ve created a comprehensive 4-day itinerary that covers all the must-see sights, hidden gems, and essential experiences in Paris.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Paris?

The ideal time to visit Paris is in spring or fall—the weather is pleasantly mild, and the city isn’t as crowded as in summer. But honestly? Paris has a magic all year round, so the best time to go is really whenever you can, Paris always has something special to offer.

How to Get Around Paris

Paris is extremely walkable, and many of the top sights are just a short stroll from each other. For longer distances, the Metro and buses are efficient, convenient, and budget-friendly. Taxis and Uber are easy to find too, though they cost more than public transport.

🚘 My tip: Mix walking with the Metro to really soak in the city’s atmosphere while still covering more ground.

15 Best & Unique Things To Do In Paris: Your Ultimate Guide

Where to Stay in Paris

If it’s your first time visiting, I recommend focusing on the 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, or 7th arrondissement—these neighbourhoods put you close to the city’s main sights.

You might be wondering, what exactly is an arrondissement? Simply put, it’s a neighborhood—Paris has 20 of them, each with its own vibe and charm.

Besides choosing a hotel in one of these central arrondissements, another tip is to pick a place near a metro station. It makes getting around the city so much easier and saves you time for exploring!

Choosing where to stay in Paris can be challenging due to its many neighborhoods. To make it easier, I’ve created a complete guide on the best places to stay.

To help simplify the decision, Here are a few hotels and recommendations and neighbourhoods to help you choose :
– Budget Hotel (7th Arrondissement) Hôtel Le Cercle Tour Eiffel:
Balconies with Eiffel Tower View, affordable, close to Metro Station (Google Maps)
– Mid Range Hotel: Hôtel Albe Saint Miche l (5th Arrondissement)
Central location near Notre-Dame and Seine River, affordable (Google Maps)
– Luxury Hotel (7th Arrondissement) Hôtel La Comtesse
Eiffel Tower View, close to Metro Station (Google Maps)

15 Best & Unique Things To Do In Paris

1. Louvre Museum

Louvre Museum is the world’s largest—and arguably most famous—art museum!

Timed Entry Tip: Make sure to buy your tickets in advance and choose a timed entrance that fits your itinerary. Arrive early to beat the crowds.

Best Entrance: Skip the long lines at the Pyramid and head instead to the Carrousel du Louvre underground entrance—it’s much faster and far less hectic.

Spend your morning wandering through the endless galleries and hallways, home to masterpieces from every era. Be sure to see the Mona Lisa.

Can’t-Miss Highlight: Don’t forget to visit the Napoleon III Apartments. These lavishly decorated rooms showcase the opulent lifestyle of the French elite and give you a glimpse of 19th-century grandeur—absolutely worth the detour!

9 Safest Places To Stay In Paris For First Time Visitors — Napoleon Bonaparte Apartments inside the Louvre

2. Climb the Eiffel Tower

Climbing the Eiffel Tower is one of the most unforgettable experiences in Paris, rewarding you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines and plan for either an early morning or sunset visit for the best light.

You can take the elevator straight to the summit, but the more adventurous can climb the 674 steps to the second floor. The stairway gives you unique angles of the ironwork and plenty of photo stops along the way.

From the viewing decks, spot landmarks like the Seine River, Arc de Triomphe, and Sacré-Cœur. If you reach the top, celebrate with a glass of bubbly at the Champagne Bar while Paris sparkles below.

3. Dinner Cruise on the Seine

For a truly memorable evening in Paris, nothing beats a dinner cruise along the Seine River. As you enjoy a delicious meal, you can watch the city’s iconic landmarks—like the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame—light up under the night sky. It’s a magical way to see the city from a whole new perspective.

I personally recommend the Bateaux Parisiens or Bateaux Mouches dinner cruises. To help plan your night out, I’ve also put together a guide to the 5 best evening river cruises in Paris, so you can pick the perfect one for your trip.

4. Watch Eiffel Tower sparkle

No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower light up the night sky. Each evening, the tower comes alive with a dazzling sparkle show that lasts for five minutes every hour on the hour after sunset. It’s pure magic!

Best Viewing Spots: For a classic view, head to the Trocadéro Gardens, which offer an unobstructed panorama. If you prefer a more romantic setting, grab a picnic and settle along the Champs de Mars lawn. Another favorite of mine is watching from the Pont Alexandre III bridge, where the shimmering lights reflect beautifully on the Seine.

Timing Tip: Check the sunset time for your visit and aim to arrive at least 15–20 minutes early to snag a good spot. The first sparkle show begins as soon as it gets dark, and the final one is at 11 p.m. (midnight during summer).

5. Palais Royal

The Palais Royal is a serene and elegant spot in the heart of Paris, surrounded by beautiful gardens, historic arcades, and chic boutiques. It’s just a 5-minute walk from the Louvre, making it an easy addition to your itinerary.

Don’t miss the Colonnes de Buren, the striking black-and-white striped art installation in the courtyard, perfect for photos. Grab a coffee nearby and enjoy a quiet moment while admiring the mix of history, art, and Parisian charm that makes the Palais Royal so special.

🏨 Read Next: The Perfect 4 Day Paris Itinerary

6. Tuileries Gardens

The Tuileries Gardens are a peaceful escape in the heart of Paris. Wide gravel paths, elegant statues, and sparkling fountains make it the perfect place for a leisurely walk or a quiet break from sightseeing.

Grab a coffee or pastry from a nearby café and settle into one of the classic green chairs by the pond. The Tuileries have such a timeless Parisian charm—I fell in love with these gardens and only wish I’d had more time to enjoy them.

7. Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of Paris’s most famous landmarks, located at the top of the Champs-Élysées. Built by Napoleon to celebrate his victories, it’s covered in detailed sculptures and carvings.

For amazing views, climb the 284 steps to the top. From there, you can see the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and the streets spreading out across the city. It’s a bit of a climb, but the view makes it worth it!

Be sure to book your tickets ahead of time to avoid waiting in line. Tickets cost about €16 per adult, and you’ll choose a 20-minute entry slot. An elevator is available if you need it.

8. Photoshoot at the Eiffel Tower

AA photo shoot at the Eiffel Tower is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks as the perfect backdrop. Whether you’re marking a special occasion or simply creating memories, the tower’s stunning architecture and romantic atmosphere make every shot unforgettable.

I had the chance to do this with my family, and it was such a special experience. We returned home with beautiful photos that captured not just the landmark, but the magic of being in Paris—a memory we’ll always treasure.

9. Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier is Paris’s legendary opera house, famous for its opulent architecture, grand staircases, and stunning ceiling painted by Marc Chagall. Even if you’re not catching a performance, a visit to this iconic building is a feast for the eyes and a chance to experience Parisian elegance up close.

10. Galeries Lafayette

Just a short walk away is Galeries Lafayette, one of the city’s most famous department stores. Its magnificent glass dome and designer boutiques make it a must-see for shopping or simply admiring the architecture.

Tip: Don’t forget to visit the rooftop terrace for panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower in the distance.

Gallery Lafayette Rooftop Paris — Gallery Lafayette rooftop

11. Visit Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur

Montmartre is a charming neighborhood, celebrated for its artistic history and vibrant atmosphere. At its peak, you’ll find the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, offering breathtaking views of Paris.

Don’t forget to sit on the stairs for an amazing panoramic view of the city, while you wander through its quaint streets filled with cafés, galleries, and the bohemian spirit of Paris.

Montmartre Paris-Cafe-Le-Consulat — Montmartre-Cafe-Le-Consulat

12. A day trip to Versailles

A visit to Versailles is a must for anyone wanting to experience the grandeur of French history. Just a short train ride from central Paris, the palace is famous for its opulent architecture, stunning gardens, and the legendary Hall of Mirrors.

Plan to spend the day exploring both the palace and the expansive grounds, including the beautifully designed gardens and fountains.

Don’t forget to check out the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, where Marie Antoinette once escaped the formalities of court life. It’s a full day of history, beauty, and unforgettable Parisian charm.

13. Hot Chocolate at Angelina

No trip to Paris is complete without trying the famous hot chocolate at Angelina, one of the city’s most iconic cafés. Rich, creamy, and decadent, it’s the perfect treat to warm up while soaking in the elegant Belle Époque atmosphere.

I recommend pairing it with a Mont-Blanc pastry, their signature dessert and Croissant. Sipping this luxurious hot chocolate is a true Parisian experience you won’t forget.

14. Enjoy Parisian Macarons

No visit to Paris is complete without trying the city’s famous macarons. These delicate, colorful treats are not only delicious but also a feast for the eyes, making them perfect for a little indulgence or a sweet souvenir to bring home.

Some of my favorite spots include Ladurée and Pierre Hermé, where each macaron is crafted with care and bursting with flavor. Take your time to savor the textures and taste combinations—it’s one of those experiences that truly captures the charm of Paris.

15. Paris Catacombs

The Paris Catacombs are a must-visit for history enthusiasts, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past. This underground ossuary houses the remains of over six million people, arranged in haunting displays. A tour through the catacombs provides an unforgettable and eerie experience, revealing a hidden side of Paris.

What to eat in Paris and Where?

Here is a LIST of the MUST TRY FOOD in Paris and where to find them:

🥐 Best croissant in Paris
📌 Pierre Hermé
📌 Boulangerie Utopie
📌 Du Pain et des Idées
📌 La Maison d’Isabelle
📌 Ble Sucre

🥯 Best Hot Chocolate in Paris
📌 Angelina
📌 Café de Flore
📌 Ladurée
📌 Jacques Genin
📌 Les Deux Magots
📌 Maison de Chocolat

🥯 Best Macarons in Paris
📌 Pierre Hermé:
📌 Ladurée
📌 Pâtisserie des Rêves
📌 Pierre Marcolini
📌 Angelina

🐌 Best Escargot in Paris
📌 L’Escargot Montorgueil
📌Le comptoir du Relais
📌 Chez Denise – La Tour de Montlhéry
📌 Le Petit Sommelier
📌 Au Pied de Cochon
📌 Le Procope

🥪 Best Croque Monsieur sandwiches in Paris
📌 Café de Flore
📌 Faste – Croque monsieur Paris
📌 Le Petit Cler
📌 Fric-Frac Canal St Martin
📌 Au Petit Suisse

🥩 Best Steak Frites in Paris
📌 Le Relais de l’Entrecôte
📌 Les Oreilles et La Queue
📌 Le Severo
📌 Paul Bert

Best Bars in Paris?

📌 10ème Ciel (Eiffel Tower view)
📌 Le Ciel de Paris (Eiffel Tower view)
📌 l’atelier de joel robuchon
📌 L’Épicier
📌 Little Red Door
📌 Bisou
📌 Brach
📌 Lavomatic
📌 Andy Wahoo
📌 Experimental Cocktail Club
📌 Candelaria

Final Thoughts

Paris is beautiful, with something for everyone to enjoy, there’s always something to do and see. Whether you’re exploring its rich history, vibrant culture, or relaxing in its picturesque parks, Paris never fails to captivate.

I hope this guide has inspired you to visit Paris and helped you plan your trip! Don’t forget to check out my 4-day itinerary for a detailed guide to making the most of your time in the city.

15 Best & Unique Things To Do In Paris: Your Ultimate Guide

The Ultimate Paris Travel Guide

How many days should you stay in Paris?

When Is the Best Time to Visit Paris?

How to Get Around Paris

Where to Stay in Paris