No wonder this city is so loved by the tourists.
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, it is filled with historic sites, architecture, art, and at the same time, modern high-tech. Millions of people from all over the world dream to visit this city, thousands of tourists and travelers arrive here every day. This collection includes ten of the best Paris attractions are not to be missed. Most of these sites already have a separate article. By following links You can find the most detailed information on each one, see pictures, read reviews and participate in the discussion.
Lying on both sides of the river Seine, Paris attracts romantics from all over the world for its elegant beauty and magical aura. This city cannot be compared with any other city in the world, as it is unique and unrepeatable, full of grandiose monuments and the best museums in the world. There is on Earth a man who would not know the legendary Paris sights, among them the Eiffel Tower, Champs Elysees and Notre Dame Cathedral. The charm of Paris is also evident in the small details — the cobbled streets, original topiary trees, French gardens and parks, mini-bakeries, tea salons, and art galleries. The whole town is a solid open air Museum, where every building can be called a piece of art.
Paris
Paris fashion worthy covers of the best magazines in the world. It has everything from stylish boutiques to gourmet cuisine — the French capital is associated with the best things in the world. The city enhances its historical heritage, tenderly preserving the historical monuments and adding to the best collection of world art masterpieces. Visit the Louvre with its Mona Lisa and Monet’s masterpieces, admire the medieval Latin Quarter and legendary Bohemian atmosphere of Montmartre. Every corner of Paris conceals some historical fact, making this city truly extraordinary.
Notre Dame Cathedral (Notre Dame de Paris)
Notre Dame Cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in France and in Europe. It took two centuries to build this miracle of architecture and one of the most famous sites of Paris.
Pictures of this Cathedral do not do it justice, Notre Dame Cathedral is a must see with your own eyes. The level of detail placed in the sculpture is fantastic. A triumph of Gothic architecture — Notre Dame Cathedral Notre Dame de Paris is located in the heart of Paris on Ile de La Cité, near the Latin quarter. This island on the river Seine is the historic and geographic center of Paris, where the Romans founded the Gallo-Roman city of Lutetia, from the 6th to 14th century here lived the kings of France. The Cathedral of Notre Dame was founded in 1163 by king Louis IX, but its construction took more than 150 years. It was created in the earlier Gothic style, and later additions added to the construction of the high Gothic style. Tourists admire the ornamental design of the facade with numerous sculptures and gargoyles. The interior of the Cathedral will impress you not less, so be sure to visit this prominent tourist attraction of Paris.
Paris
When You see this Cathedral in person, you really understand why it took almost 200 years to build Notre Dame de Paris!
Two tall towers of this iconic landmarks are visible from much of Paris.
The interior of the Cathedral is amazing, stained glass Windows and tall pillars reminiscent of the French Gothic architecture of the period. This Cathedral is located on the island, making it breathtaking view from the tourist boats which pass this canal.
Statues of gargoyles are located everywhere among the other statues of creatures, kings, and monks.
Eiffel Tower
One of the most recognizable structures in the world and the symbol of France. If You don’t climb the Eiffel tower while in Paris, you will lose a really special moment in my life. The size of the iron tower is huge. Under the base of the tower it’s hard to believe these gigantic proportions, the photographs it is impossible to experience all the greatness and beauty of this structure. This attraction of Paris is required for viewing.
The Eiffel tower was built within two years, from 1887 to 1889 for the Exhibition Universelle and was supposed, was to be dismantled after the event.
But the residents and visitors of Paris, she liked it so much that they decided to leave it, and now it’s the most popular attraction in Paris. The view from the top of the tower offers not only the entire city but also its surroundings. This is one of the most recognizable monuments in the world, a true symbol of contemporary Paris. Hard to believe that not so long ago this structure was called an ugly monster and demanded to erase it from the face of the city. But today, this innovative structure is considered an architectural masterpiece and a major tourist attraction of Paris. To be photographed in front of the Tower as possible from the slopes of the Champs de Mars and the Trocadero Gardens. The tower is 307 metres long and was the tallest building in the world until the construction of the Empire state building in new York. Upstairs you can as the stairs and the Elevator. From the observation deck offers stunning views of the city of ivory. On the second level of the Eiffel Tower is the Jules Vernes restaurant with an exquisite menu and panoramic Windows.
The Palace Of Versailles
When he built the château, Versailles was the hunting residence of the king. Today, however, it was a suburb of Paris, approximately twenty kilometers southwest of the French capital. Versailles was the center of political power in France from 1682, when Louis XIV moved here from Paris, until the Royal family was forced to return to the capital in October 1789, beginning the French revolution. Versailles is therefore famous not only as a building but as a symbol of the system of absolute monarchy. Read more about the details and historical facts You can read in the article about the Palace of Versailles.
The gardens of Versailles also deserve special attention. Here you can walk and explore the beauty of nature forever.
The attention to detail of the interior of this Palace is unbelievable. Wherever You look, you will see engravings, paintings, fine furniture. Hard to believe that all 700 rooms of Versailles fit this style!
The Louvre Museum
Magnificent Louvre Museum is located in the Palace, which was once the residence of French kings. Visitors enter the Museum through the glass pyramid in the main courtyard. The exposition of the Museum contains more than 30,000 works of art from ancient times to the medieval art and works by European artists of the 15-19th centuries. It is impossible to cover the entire exhibition in one visit, therefore it is better to focus on each gallery individually. Be sure to visit the gallery of classical sculpture, Italian Renaissance, and the exhibition of paintings by French artists of the 15th century. If in your Arsenal just one day, it is best to take the audio guide in the Russian language and start tour of the famous sights of the Louvre. So you can see the legendary Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci in 1503-1505. Among other outstanding exhibits the sculpture of Venus de Milo and monumental Nika Samothrace Hellenistic period. On the one hand, the Louvre is surrounded by elegant Gardens of the Tuileries — one of the most beautiful and largest parks of Paris. The famous French landscape designer Andre Le Notre created the gardens in classic French style. Being the biggest Museum in the world, this attraction of Paris is well worth a visit. Nearly 35,000 objects from prehistory to the 19th century, is shown here. It is also the most visited Museum in the world. Fans of art from around the world come here to admire the masterpieces.
If You spent just one minute on each artwork here, it would take two months to get through the entire collection of the Louvre.
Cult objects of art are stored here in safety, such as La Gioconda (the Mona Lisa) of Leonardo Da Vinci.
La Vallée Village
This is the best place to experience and purchase brands of high class, located very close to Central Paris. Stores valley village offer an extremely popular luxury brands such as Versace, D&G, Gucci, etc. Located on beautiful and peaceful street, these small shops provide You with a luxurious shopping experience.
The Cemetery Of Pere-Lachaise
The most famous cemetery in Paris is located on a forested hill overlooking the city. The graves of famous people and masterpieces of funerary sculptures make Pere Lachaise a pleasant place for a leisurely, nostalgic stroll.
Important people and celebrities are buried here such as the soloist of “The Doors” Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde and Marcel Proust. It makes the cemetery is quite visited tourist attraction of Paris.
Sacré-Coeur and the Montmartre area
A popular landmark, sacré-cœur Basilica located at the highest point of the Montmartre hill, the highest point in the city. Located on the highest point of Paris from sacré Coeur is surrounded by a special aura. Its facade mixes Byzantine and Romanesque styles, from a distance resembling a wedding cake (the so-called Basilica of the locals). Inside are no less impressive murals with images of Christ and various saints. Sacre Coeur was built as a symbol of hope after the Franco-Prussian wars. The sanctuary of the Basilica illuminated by many candles, creating a serene atmosphere. Visitors spend the most time on the terrace and enjoy some of the best views of Paris, or climb the tower for even better view. When visiting the Basilica, it is also worth to explore the district of Montmartre. Once he was a free-standing village turned into one of the most visited attractions of Paris thanks to its avant-garde atmosphere and old fashioned charm. Montmartre has long attracted famous artists, continuing to do so to this day. Here are excellent art museums, including the Museum of Montmartre and the Salvador Dali exhibition. Closest to the Montmartre metro station is Abbesses.
The construction can be seen virtually from any point in Paris as it is located on top of a large hill. This is the Roman Catholic Church. The area around Montmartre this Church is very well known in the art. There are many beautiful, narrow European streets.
Arc de Triomphe Paris
The triumphal arch honors those who fought and died for France during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic wars with the names of all French victories and generals signed on its inner and outer surfaces. Below is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the First world war. Arc de Triomphe one of the most recognizable landmarks of Paris. It is dedicated to the great victories of the French army under the command of Napoleon. It was he who authorized the construction of the monument in 1806, but did not live to see its completion in 1836. Arch decorated with scenes of great victories and the triumphant return of the French army. On it are engraved the names of 660 generals and over a hundred great battles. From the viewing platform of the arch offers an overview of 12 major avenues, including the Champs elysées. At the foot of the arch is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, built in 1921 as a memorial to those who died in the First World war. The nearest metro station is Charles-de-Gaulle-Etoile.
This is the largest arch in Europe (and probably in the world) and one of the iconic landmarks of Paris. The street leading to the arch from the base of the Eiffel tower filled with the most luxurious and expensive shops.
International air show Le Bourget
Almost in Central Paris is a Playground for the biggest Airshow in the world. Airshow Le Bourget also demonstrates new technologies from space manufacturers.
Thousands of people visit this Airshow, and this event definitely deserves a visit. You are lucky if it is held during your stay in Paris. But even if You missed the show, you can visit the aviation Museum at Le Bourget. Here assembled one of the most comprehensive collections in the world, including aircraft of the First world war and the zeppelins, as well as a huge section of model aviation.
Excursion by boat on the river Seine
To see the sights of Paris is by taking a tour of the Seine river on the boat or on the boat. The canal is very beautiful, You will see a lot of things that would be too far to reach on foot. On the tourist boat, you can also have lunch or dinner.
Champs Elysees
The most monumental Boulevard in Paris was the venue of marches until the 16th century, later changing its purpose. Now Champs is divided into two parts, the lower of which includes a spacious Elysee Gardens and the art Museum in the Small Palace. The upper part of the Avenue stretches to the arc de Triomphe with hundreds of luxurious shops, hotels, restaurants, cafes and theatres. There is always going numerous tourists and local residents.
Champs Elysees is known for its prestigious institutions and exclusive stores like Tiffany & Co., Cartier and Louis Vuitton. This is one of the best places for shopping in Paris. For a nice romantic dinner, head to the restaurant Le Fouquet’s, or at L’atelier de Joel Robuchon with two stars from Michelin. In addition to expensive casinos here also has something for budget tourists, including Starbucks, McDonald’s and chain stores like H&M. Wondering how to get to the Champs Elysees? With an extensive system of the Paris metro it will not be easy. Get off at the metro station Champs-Elysees Clemenceau to visit the Elysee Gardens and Small Palace, in the station Franklin d. Roosevelt to visit Laduree, and the station George V for shopping on the main Avenue. Address: Champs-Elysees, 75008 Paris
Musee D’orsay
This collection of works of impressionist art is one of the main attractions of Paris. Here are collected the masterpieces of the masters of the era of Impressionism, including Degas, Monet and Renoir, post-Impressionists Bonnard, Cezanne and van Gogh, pointillist and other artists. Musee d’orsay is the best place in Paris to get acquainted with the style of Impressionism, its history and its best representatives. The Museum hosts an exhibition of decorative objects and photographs, along with two cafes and antique restaurant. Once a restaurant located here belonged the Hotel de Paris, and now is considered a historical monument.
Opera Garnier and Opera Museum
Opera Garnier Palace — a stunning Palace, neo-Baroque, designed specifically for Opera and ballet performances. The building was created by Charles Garnier in a luxurious Napoleon III style and was built from 1862 to 1875. The facade of the Opera Garnier stands out with its classical columns and sculptures, and in the loggia are placed the busts of famous composers, including Rossini, Beethoven and Mozart. The Opera house seats 2,200 people and every corner of the interior exudes vintage luxury. For a deeper understanding of the Paris Opera and its deep cultural traditions, visit the library located inside the Museum of Opera. Here are kept ancient archives and exhibits on the history of Opera, traditions costumes and other interesting details. During the year the Museum organizes temporary thematic exhibitions, and performances. A visit to the Opera in the Palais Garnier — one of the favorite pastimes of many tourists and travelers. There are performances of the highest class ticket, which is booked in advance. At the Opera house is also the original book shop and a stylish restaurant serving French cuisine. Located near the Opera metro station.
Concorde
Concorde was built between 1755 and 1775 years architect of king Louis XV. Impressive octagonal square was located in the heart of Paris in the 18th century, still being one of the most beautiful and largest squares in France. Throughout its history, it was the scene of some very important events, including the execution of king Louis XVI and the triumphal March of Napoleon. At its center is an Egyptian obelisk, given to Charles X by the Egyptian Ambassador. In the summer we set the Ferris wheel. Concorde is a busy thoroughfare where motorists often travel at high speed. French drivers often violate traffic regulations and ignore pedestrians, so be careful. You can get here on foot from the Louvre, through the gardens Tulare, or following along the banks of the river Seine. You can also use the subway and get off at the station Concorde.
The Holy Chapel Of The Sainte-Chapelle
Located in the Palais de Justice on Ile de La Cité, the chapel Sainte-Chapelle is a rare jewel of the Middle Ages. A masterpiece of high Gothic architecture was built in the period from 1242 to 1248 for king Louis IX to store Christian relics of the Byzantine Empire. The chapel is famous for its mosaic Windows, giving the interior space a surreal aura. Sainte-Chapelle is sometimes used as a venue for classical music concerts. To get to chapel, go through the iron gates of the Palace of Justice and the courtyard. A visit to the sights of Paris can be combined with a visit to the Notre-Dame Cathedral as they are located nearby.
The Luxembourg Gardens
The Luxembourg Gardens is the most famous Park of Paris after Tulare. The gardens were laid in the 17th century, along with the construction of the Luxembourg Palace. In the centre is an octagonal pond with a fountain, surrounded by two elegant terraces with statues. This part of the Park done in a classic French style with lots of benches for visitors. The Park is very popular among Parisians and students of the Latin quarter, who come here to relax and have a picnic. Among the attractions of the Park is the picturesque Medici Fountain, hidden among the trees opposite the Eastern part of the Palace. It was built in honor of the former lady of the Palace, Marie de Medici. A large pond is very popular with the children who swim here on miniature boats and see a fun marionette show at the Luxembourg theatre.
The Paris Pantheon
Originally built as a Church, the Pantheon is a national memorial and burial place of the great French. In 1756 king Louis XV brought the architect Jacques Souffle to build a new Church on the ruins of the Abbey of Sainte-Genevieve, and the Church was completed in 1790. The architecture of the Pantheon marks the clear transition from playful to more serious Rococo to neoclassical style. It was the first building in Paris, returned to the architectural simplicity of classical antiquity. The Pantheon has set the gold standard period before and after Napoleon, inspiring the creation of other iconic structures, including the arc de Triomphe. Here are buried the philosophers Voltaire and Rousseau, the writer Victor Hugo and many other prominent personalities.
Place Des Vosges
In the charming Marais district, located place des Vosges — one of the oldest public squares in Paris. It became the model for other areas of the city, including the place Vendome and Concorde. Its construction lasted from 1605 to 1612, and originally the area was called Royal, because it was concentrated in the mansions of the nobility and aristocrats. Typical Renaissance style is characterized by symmetry of form and attention to detail. Since the 17th century here there were all sorts of celebrations, tournaments and iconic events. Place des Vosges was a favorite place for duels, despite the ban from Cardinal Richelieu. In the Marais there are numerous medieval Renaissance palaces and other attractions of Paris, including Picasso Museum, in a stately mansion from the 17th century. The quarter is home to a significant Jewish community, here you can find some of the best restaurants and shops in the city, many of which are open on Sundays.
Place vendôme
This majestic square was designed by architect Jules Hardouin-Mansart, one of the leading architects for king Louis XIV. Originally it was called the place Louis the Great. It was planned to place the Royal Academy, a Library, a hotel for foreign visitors and many other structures, but due to financial difficulties the king had to sell the building to wealthy citizens. The new owners have built luxurious palaces with courtyards and gardens. In the early 90-ies of the last century, the area has undergone restoration, becoming even more attractive. Here is the most elite jewelry stores in Paris, including Boucheron, Chanel, Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier. Among the main attractions is to provide the Ritz — one of the best hotels of Paris, where Ernest Hemingway, Scott Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein and many other celebrities. In the centre place vendôme is a bronze column with a height of 44 meters, ustanovlena in honor of the French army.
Centre Georges Pompidou
Center of Arts and Culture Georges Pompidou is located between the districts of Les Halles and the Marais. The contemporary architectural style of the building contrasts with the historic buildings of the quarter. Referred to as the “building inside out”, as some staircases, elevators, and other items made on the outer side. The main attraction of the Centre Pompidou — national modern Art Museum with a large collection of works from the leading masters of the era of cubism, expressionism, constructivism, Dadaism, surrealism, abstract expressionism, new realism and pop art. Here you can find works by Picasso, Bonnard, Dalí, Rene Magritte, and even Andy Warhol. Also impressive is the collection of sculptures.
Invalides
Les Invalides was established as a hospital for injured soldiers. Until the time of Louis XIV the wounded soldiers received medical care in hospitals and monasteries, but most often they had to beg and lead a miserable life. With the construction of the Invalides “the Sun King” founded the first home for soldiers injured during military service. The building was built from 1671 to 1676 under the control of the architect Bruant, and in 1706 was reconstructed by the famous architect Mangartom. The Cathedral at Les Invalides is a magnificent building of classical French period. It is the tomb of Napoleon, added here in 1840. Also worth a visit is the Army Museum, founded in 1794. Here is a big collection of military equipment and uniforms, weapons, ammunition and all sorts of oddities from around the world.
