Planning your first trip to Paris can feel overwhelming—there’s so much to see and do! The City of Light is home to world-famous landmarks, cultural treasures, and hidden gems that tell the story of French history and art.
In this guide, we’ll cover the 10 Paris landmarks you absolutely must visit on your first stay. From the majestic Eiffel Tower to the charming Montmartre, each stop offers a unique experience that makes Paris unforgettable.
1. The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is the ultimate symbol of Paris and one of the most visited monuments in the world. Built in 1889 for the World’s Fair, it was initially criticized but soon became an icon of modern architecture.
Best Viewpoints: Trocadéro Square, Champ de Mars, and Montparnasse Tower.
Tickets: Book directly on the official Eiffel Tower website to avoid long lines. Prices start around €29 for adults.
Best Time to Visit: At night, when the tower sparkles every hour on the hour.
Insider Tip: If you don’t want to climb, enjoy a picnic at the Champ de Mars with the tower as your backdrop.
2. The Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum is the world’s largest art museum and a must for culture lovers. According to the official Louvre website, it houses more than 35,000 works, including the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
Tickets: From €22, free on the first Friday evening of the month.
Time to Spend: Allow at least 3 hours for a first visit.
Pro Tip: Enter through the Carrousel du Louvre entrance instead of the Pyramid for shorter lines.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Despite the tragic fire of 2019, Notre-Dame remains a Gothic masterpiece. Construction began in 1163 and took nearly two centuries to complete.
Highlights: Famous for its stained-glass rose windows and gargoyles.
Fun Facts: Victor Hugo’s novel The Hunchback of Notre-Dame helped save the cathedral from demolition in the 19th century.
4. Arc de Triomphe
Commissioned by Napoleon in 1806, the Arc de Triomphe honors French soldiers who fought in the Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
Location: Place Charles de Gaulle, where 12 avenues converge.
Tip: Climb the 284 steps for panoramic views of the Champs-Élysées.
Profi-Tipp: Don’t miss the Eternal Flame that burns in honor of the Unknown Soldier.
5. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica
Montmartre is the artistic soul of Paris. Once home to Picasso, Dali, and Van Gogh, this hilltop village is a charming blend of cobblestone streets, cafés, and art studios.
What to See: Visit the Place du Tertre, where artists still paint portraits.
Best Viewpoint: Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers stunning city views, entry is free.
Tip: Street musicians create a lively atmosphere at sunset.
6. The Seine River & Its Bridges
The Seine River runs through the heart of Paris, lined with stunning architecture.
Highlights: A river cruise is the best way to admire the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Musée d’Orsay.
Best Time: Sunset cruises are especially magical.
Tip: Don’t miss Pont Alexandre III, the most ornate bridge in Paris.
7. Musée d’Orsay
If you love Impressionist art, Musée d’Orsay is a dream come true. Located in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, it houses masterpieces by Monet, Renoir, Degas, and Van Gogh.
Need to Know: Closed on Mondays.
Tickets: Around 16€.
Profi-Tipp: The museum’s giant clock windows offer one of the best photo spots in Paris.
8. The Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens are perfect for a relaxing break. Created in 1612, they remain one of Paris’s most beloved green spaces.
What to see: Locals come here to jog, picnic, or read by the fountains.
Best for Families: Kids can enjoy puppet shows and vintage carousels.
Photo Tip: Beautiful photo opportunities with the Luxembourg Palace as a backdrop.
Profi-Tipp: The museum’s giant clock windows offer one of the best photo spots in Paris.
9. Palace of Versailles
Just outside Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a must-see day trip.
The grandeur of the French monarchy is on full Display here.
Highlights: Hall of Mirrors, Royal Apartments, manicured gardens.
Tickets: Around 21€, plan your visit via the Palace of Versailles official site for schedules and events.
Time to Reach: 45 minutes by RER train from central Paris.
Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid weekend crowds.
10. Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées is Paris’s most Famous Avenue, stretching from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde.
Highlights: Perfect for shopping, Luxury Brands, flagship stores, and French boutiques.
Best Events: Hosts the Bastille Day parade and the Tour de France Finish Line.
Pro Tip: Stop at a Café Terrace to enjoy Parisian life.
Bonus: Hidden Gems Near These Landmarks
- Rue Cler: A charming street market near the Eiffel Tower.
- Passage des Panoramas: One of Paris’s oldest covered passages.
- Place des Vosges: The oldest planned square in Paris, located in Le Marais.
FAQ:
Q: How many days do I need to see these Paris landmarks?
A: Ideally 3–5 days, but with a private golf cart tour, you can cover most of them in just 2–3 hours.
Q: What’s the best time of year to visit Paris?
A: Spring (April–June) and Fall (September–October) offer the best weather and fewer crowds.
Q: Can I visit these landmarks at night?
A: Yes! The Eiffel Tower sparkles, the Seine cruises are romantic, and Paris truly lives up to its name, the City of Light.
Conclusion: Exploring the Iconic Paris Landmarks That Define the City of Light
Your first trip to Paris will be unforgettable if you focus on these 10 must-see landmarks. They capture the history, culture, and spirit of the French capital.
👉 Want to make your visit even more memorable? Skip the stress of walking and public transport—book a Private Golf Cart Tour in Paris and see all these landmarks comfortably, with a local guide sharing stories along the way.
