What you are about to read
In this comprehensive guide, updated for 2026, we explore Parisian heritage from a new angle. We begin at the birthplace of the city, the Île de la Cité, to celebrate the rebirth of Notre-Dame. We then cross the Seine to explore the Louvre, palace of kings, before climbing to the heights of Montmartre. Finally, we will reveal the secrets of the Passages Couverts and our best addresses for enjoying Parisian gastronomy, because you can't visit Paris without honoring its cuisine.
Preparing for your trip: Practical guide to Paris 2026
Visiting Paris in 2026 requires some advance planning. The capital has changed significantly since the major urban developments of recent years. To get around efficiently, use public transportation. The Paris metro network is one of the densest in the world. For travelers, the Pass Navigo Découverte or digital tickets on smartphones are now the norm.
When it comes to your budget, keep in mind that many museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of every month. If you plan to visit more than three monuments, purchasing a Paris Museum Pass will quickly pay for itself. Finally, safety is a priority: stay alert in highly touristic areas such as Sacré-Cœur or the Eiffel Tower, where pickpockets and scammers are most prevalent, and carry your bags in front of you. Politeness is the key to a warm welcome: a simple "Bonjour" when entering a store will open many doors.
Some of the 381 sculpted mascarons on the Pont-Neuf bridge. You can clearly see the "bassines," small balconies that once housed shops. Photo selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: Todamo/ Shutterstock.Com
Paris is not content to be just a capital city; it is a theater where every stone has played a role for two millennia, a stage where every Parisian and every tourist plays a part. From the splendor of the Eiffel Tower's ironwork to the stone lace of Notre Dame, from the works of art in the Louvre to the neighborhood bistros, the City of Light offers a unique sensory journey. In 2026, Paris will reinvent itself once again, reconciling its royal and imperial heritage with the lifestyles of our time, to offer travelers an experience that can only be found in Paris, city of the world, city of light.
According to Monsieur de France, a website specializing in French tourism, culture, and gastronomy, exploring Paris means accepting to get lost in order to better find yourself in the history of France. Whether you are here for the first time or the hundredth, you will see! The magic always works, as long as you know how to look beyond the facades.
Paris by neighborhood: choose your atmosphere
One of the beauties of Paris is its uniformity, since the city was rebuilt at the end of the 19th century. However, Paris is also made up of different neighborhoods, each with its own character and attractions. It's up to you to choose which you prefer.
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Le Marais (3rd and 4th): This is medieval and Renaissance Paris. Its narrow streets are lined with mansions that have been converted into museums (Carnavalet, Picasso) and designer boutiques. It is the trendy district of Paris.
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The Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement): The intellectual heart of Paris. Between the Sorbonne and the Pantheon, you will walk in the footsteps of the greatest writers of the last century. This is Paris's student district.
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Montmartre (18th arrondissement): The artists' quarter. Although very touristy, losing your way in the vineyards of Montmartre behind the basilica remains a magical moment. And Montmartre is the soul of working-class Paris, which can still be seen in its walls.
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The 7th Arrondissement: The monumental district. This is where you'll find Les Invalides, the Musée d'Orsay, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower. The Paris that impresses.
I. The Cradle of Paris: Île de la Cité and the Louvre
1. Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris: The Renaissance
Notre Dame emerging from the Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris. Photo chosen by Monsieur de France: olgacov via depositphotos
In 2026, Notre Dame is no longer a construction site, it is a miracle. Viollet-le-Duc's spire once again points towards the sky, a symbol of the resilience of French heritage. The cleaning of the stones has restored the building to its original medieval whiteness. What you need to know before you go is that no one, in eight centuries of history, has ever seen Notre Dame so clean, so white—I was going to say so new. Even the stained-glass windows, especially the two rose windows, have been restored. They are sublime.
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Advice from Monsieur de France: Admission remains free and enthusiasm is immense. Remember to reserve your visit slot via the app several days in advance.
When we enter Notre Dame. Photo selected by Monsieur de France: gilmanshin via depositphotos
What to see at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris? All the answers from Monsieur de France are here.
2. Sainte-Chapelle: A jewel box of light
The Sainte Chapelle has 670 square meters of stained glass windows. Photo selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos.com
Located within the Palais de Justice, it offers the most dazzling spectacle in Paris. Its 1,113 stained glass windows transform sunlight into a symphony of colors. The Sainte Chapelle is, in my opinion, the most beautiful Gothic monument in the world. A medieval gem with breathtaking stained glass windows, this marvel that has stood the test of time is an absolute must-see.
3. The Louvre Museum: The Palace of Kings and the king of museums.
Pyramid of the Louvre photo by Pavel L Photo and Video/Shutterstock.com
It is not widely known, but the Louvre was originally a fortress that became the palace of the kings of France in Paris before being converted into a museum during the French Revolution. In 2026, it remains the largest museum in the world. You can see treasures such as the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and sublime paintings such as The Raft of the Medusa and Liberty Leading the People. In total, there are 33,000 works spread over 73,000 square meters. Even the exterior is beautiful, from the famous Cour Carrée to the Louvre Pyramid and the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel.
Psyche revived by the Kiss of Love at the Louvre / Photo Paolo Gallo/Shutterstock.com
What are the must-see works at the Louvre? Find out here.
II. Chic Paris: Opera, Place Vendôme, and Concorde
Chanel is here. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: AndreaA. via depositphotos
1. The Champs-Élysées: The Most Beautiful Avenue in the World
A legendary link between the Place de la Concorde and the Place de l'Étoile, the Champs-Élysées embodies the splendor of Paris. In 2026, the avenue will continue its transformation with more greenery and space for pedestrians. With its luxury boutiques and historic cinemas, it is the place to be to take the pulse of Paris at its most dazzling. It is literally a meeting place for the world, as it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the globe.
2. The Arc de Triomphe: Napoleon's Sun
The Arc de Triomphe in Paris at night. Image selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: Hervé Lagrange from Pixabay
At the top of the Champs-Élysées, this stone giant celebrates French victories. Born of Napoleon's will, it is both a monument and a major patriotic site, as it is here that the Unknown Soldier lies. It is also the starting point for the July 14 parade. Both a work of art and a tourist attraction, the Arc de Triomphe also offers an exceptional view. Climbing to its roof in 2026 will provide the most geometric view of Paris, with its twelve radiating avenues.
Detail: The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792 (or La Marseillaise) by François Rude on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The genius of war. Photo selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: Shutterstock.com
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Jérôme's tip: Never cross the roundabout at ground level! Use the underground tunnel called "Passage du Souvenir" to access the monument safely.
3. The Opéra Garnier: The palace of talent
The grand staircase of the Opéra Garnier. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: Isogood via depositphotos
A true masterpiece of Napoleon III architecture, the Opéra Garnier is home to the greatest talents in dance and music. It is where the famous petits rats de l'opéra and étoile dancers live and work. And the Palais Garnier is a feast for the eyes, even if the exterior façade is still under construction. With its grand white marble staircase and ceiling painted by Chagall, it is the most sumptuous monument on the Right Bank.
- Jérôme's tip: With its gilding and chandeliers, the Grand Foyer is every bit as impressive as the Hall of Mirrors. It's the perfect place to soak up the spirit of the Belle Époque.
The Grand Foyer. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com via depositphotos.
4. Place Vendôme: The Jewelry Showcase
What makes Place Vendôme so beautiful is the harmony of its facades. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: AndreaA. via depositphotos
This octagonal square embodies absolute luxury. The Vendôme Column, cast from bronze taken from the cannons of Austerlitz, watches over the most prestigious jewelry houses. This is where the heart of the world's fine jewelry beats and it is the place in France with the highest number of Meilleurs Ouvriers de France, or the best in the world in their field. Here you can meet billionaires and celebrities leaving the Ritz while admiring the elegance of the facades. A truly unmissable place.
5. Place de la Concorde: Between History and Perspectives
Fountains of Concord / Photo by Kiev.Victor/Shutterstock.com
The largest square in the capital, and probably the most beautiful too, it offers a breathtaking view of the Champs-Élysées and the National Assembly. Here you will find exceptional street furniture dedicated to France, its cities, and its rivers. In recent years, the Hôtel de la Marine has become a major site for discovering the aristocratic lifestyle of the 18th century. The 3,300-year-old Luxor Obelisk stands there like a link between ancient Egypt and modernity.
Obelisk of Concord / photo by vichie81/Shutterstock.com
III. The Banks of the Seine and the Bridges: The Soul of Paris
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the banks of the Seine are the most beautiful open-air museum. You can explore them on foot or by riverboat. It's even the most beautiful way to discover Paris.
- Jérôme's tip: You don't have to break the bank to dine on a riverboat. The water bus is very affordable and can be used as a means of transportation to explore the center of Paris.
1. Pont Alexandre III: The Most Beautiful Bridge in the World
The Pont Alexandre III at sunrise / Photo selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: Manjik via deposithotos.
Inaugurated for the 1900 World's Fair, the Alexandre III Bridge connects the Esplanade des Invalides to the Grand Palais. Its candelabras, nymphs, and golden winged horses make it an essential Beaux-Arts style monument. In 2026, it is a favorite spot for photographers at sunset.
2. The Banks of the Seine and the Booksellers
The banks of the Seine in Paris / Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos
Strolling along the quays is like stepping back in time. The booksellers, with their green boxes filled with old books and engravings, are the guardians of the Parisian spirit. It is here that you can truly experience the capital's gentle way of life.
What route should you take to visit Paris along the Seine? It's right here.
IV. The Left Bank: Pantheon, Saint-Germain, and Catacombs
1. The Pantheon: Glory and Remembrance
The facade of the Pantheon and the dome in the background. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: Mix7777 via depositphotos.
On Sainte-Geneviève Mountain, the Pantheon imposes its neoclassical silhouette. Originally a church dedicated to Sainte Geneviève, since the French Revolution it has been the resting place of the most important French figures in the history of France since the 19th century. "To great men, a grateful nation": Victor Hugo, Marie Curie, and Josephine Baker are buried here. Don't miss the Foucault Pendulum, which proves the rotation of the Earth before your very eyes.
Who is buried in the Pantheon? The list is here.
The dome of the Pantheon seen from the inside. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: alzamu79.hotmail.com via depositphotos.com
2. Boulevard Saint-Germain: The Art of Living
Boulevard Saint Germain is the heart of the writers' and intellectuals' district. Sitting on the terrace of the Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots in 2026 means becoming part of Paris' literary legend. It's the perfect place to hunt for old books or discover hidden art galleries. There are also a myriad of great restaurants where you can savor Paris.
Le Café de Flore in Saint Germain des Prés Photo by Alex Segre/Shutterstock
3. The Catacombs of Paris: Underground Paris
Visiting the catacombs is an unusual experience. Six million Parisians rest in this giant ossuary located 20 meters underground. It was created in the 18th century when the Innocents Cemetery, which contained the remains of Parisians since the Middle Ages, was closed. The bones were moved and placed in old underground quarries, the very ones that enabled the construction of Paris.
The remains of nearly 6,000,000 people are carefully stored in the catacombs of Paris. Photo: depositphotos.com
- Tip from Monsieur de France: Please note: In 2026, online reservations are mandatory and in high demand. Book exactly 7 days in advance.
V. Symbols and Heights: Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and Montmartre
1. The Eiffel Tower: The Iron Lady
The Eiffel Tower / photo Peggy and Marco Lachmann-Anke de Pixabay
Built in just three years for the 1889 World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower has been restored to its original "yellow-brown" color for 2026. A universal symbol, it remains the most visited paid monument in the world. Climb the stairs to the second floor for a unique view of its riveted iron structure. It is just as magnificent even if you don't climb it; you only need to see it sparkle at set times to know this and be in complete awe.
The Eiffel Tower at night / Image selected by monsieurdefrance.com: by Stefano Vazzoler from Pixabay
2. Disabled persons
Les Invalides at sunrise from the Alexandre III Bridge / by Dennis van de Water/Shutterstock.com
The dome of Les Invalides and its gilding rise to a height of 110 meters, which for a long time made it the tallest monument in Paris. Built by order of Louis XIV at the end of the 17th century, Les Invalides is now a place dedicated to France's military history. Napoleon I is also buried in the cathedral.
3. Montmartre: The Hanging Village
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Montmartre. Photo selected by Monsieurdefrance.com: Shutterstock.com
The highest point in the city. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart, with its immaculate white stone, dominates Paris. Leave Place du Tertre behind to discover Clos Montmartre (the vineyards) and La Maison Rose. Montmartre is not just a viewpoint at the foot of the Basilica. It is also the soul of Paris, its children, and its shows, since the French cancan is danced not far away at the Moulin Rouge.
The Moulin Rouge at night. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.Com: depositphotos.
VI. Royal Getaway: The Palace of Versailles
You can't visit Paris without spending a day at the king of palaces, located just 20 minutes away by train. Versailles is a king's dream and the largest palace in the world with more than 2,300 rooms, halls, salons, and staircases covering a total of more than 63,000 square meters.
The gold-leaf gate bearing the French coat of arms that closes off the main courtyard at Versailles / photo chosen by Monsieur de France: by Rodrigo Pignatta from Pixabay
1. The Palace of Louis XIV
The Hall of Mirrors, the King's Grand Apartments, and the Royal Chapel are absolute masterpieces of French classical art. In 2026, the castle continues to shine after extensive restoration work on its gilding.
The Hall of Mirrors and its famous torches / Photo selected by Monsieur de France: shutterstock.
2. The Gardens and Estate of Trianon
Designed by André Le Nôtre, the gardens of Versailles are a monument in their own right. Since last year, the Apollo Fountain has been restored and is now truly sublime. The Grandes Eaux Musicales fountain show is a magical experience that is not to be missed. Don't miss the Queen's Hamlet, a small bucolic village created for Marie Antoinette.
Gardens and Palace of Versailles / photo Vivvi Smak/Shutterstock.com
VII. Tips and Tricks for a Successful Stay in 2026
1. Eating in Paris: tips for finding a good restaurant
The best restaurants are not always near the major tourist attractions, so lose yourself in the narrow streets and take a stroll around Bastille. You'll also find plenty to tempt you in the department stores on the grand boulevards. Dining out is part of the French art of living. You sit down, enjoy your meal and, above all, chat.
A café in Montmartre. Photo selected by Monsieur de France: RuslanKal on Depositphotos.
2. The secret of the croissant in Paris.
If you've never eaten a croissant before, honestly, the first bakery you come across will do. It will be a pleasant surprise. There's no need to pay a fortune for croissants from this or that trendy bakery. All French bakers know how to make croissants. It's basic knowledge.
Who invented the croissant? Austrians! Discover the surprising history of the croissant.
Fresh croissants! Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: ArturVerkhovetskiy via depositphotos.com
3. Paris at night.
Paris is always the city of celebration; it never sleeps. Whether it's discovering Parisian monuments illuminated at night, taking a riverboat cruise while dining under the stars, or enjoying an aperitif with Parisians finishing work, there's always something fun to do in Paris at night.
4. Getting around Paris: your guide to stress-free travel in 2026
A typical Guimard entrance: Abbesses station. Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: Miff32 via depositphotos.
Getting around Paris involves a lot of walking. It also involves using the second oldest metro system in the world after London. The stations are often very attractive to look at. The bus is also a great alternative in the evening for getting around Paris for less than €3 and seeing the city lit up at night. You can also take a taxi.
Sample itineraries: Paris in 1, 3, or 5 days
To optimize your time, we have designed coherent itineraries:
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Paris Express (1 day): Morning at the Louvre, walk up the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe, afternoon at the Eiffel Tower, and evening on a Bateau-Mouche river cruise.
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The Grand Classic (3 days): Day 1: The essentials. Day 2: Montmartre in the morning, the Marais in the afternoon. Day 3: Île de la Cité (Notre-Dame) and the Invalides.
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Paris for lovers: with so many magical places to nurture love.
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Paris with the family: how to visit Paris with children and keep them surprised.
Visit Paris in one day
The Tuileries Garden / Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com: depositphotos
When visiting Paris for just one day, you have to focus on the essentials.
Visitors generally concentrate on the iconic monuments in the historic center, such as Île de la Cité, the banks of the Seine, and the area around the Louvre. The goal is to get a clear first impression of Paris, without trying to see everything.
Visiting Paris in 2 days
Two days in Paris allow you to strike a better balance between monuments and neighborhoods.
After seeing the must-see sights, you can explore Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, or the Eiffel Tower, while taking the time to stroll around. This length of stay is perfect for a first real discovery of the capital.
Magnificent Pont des Arts at night / Photo selected by Monsieur de France: depositphotos
👉 See the complete guide to visiting Paris in 2 days
Visit Paris and Versailles in 3 days
A week in Paris offers a much more in-depth exploration.
Major museums, less touristy neighborhoods, parks, and excursions such as Versailles can then be incorporated without rushing. This is the ideal length of time to understand the cultural and historical richness of Paris.
The Marble Courtyard with the facades of the first castle, that of Louis XIII / Photo by Fotos593/Shutterstock.com
👉 See the complete guide to visiting Paris and Versailles in 3 days
Visiting Paris as a couple
Paris is the city of lovers. Not only is the setting perfect, but Parisians are also very welcoming to couples. From the banks of the Seine near Notre Dame to Paris City Hall, from the "I love you" wall in Montmartre to a small café near Bastille, Paris is a dream setting for lovers.
👉 See the 10 most romantic places in Paris
The view from the Trocadéro / Photo selected by monsieurdefrance.com anyaberkut via depositphotos
Paris with the family: how to make your trip with children a success?
Visiting Paris with children or teenagers can be challenging, but the capital is brimming with activities designed for younger visitors. To keep them interested, alternate between major monuments and more playful spaces. The Jardin des Plantes in the 5th arrondissement is a must-see destination: between the Grande Galerie de l'Évolution and the Ménagerie (one of the oldest zoos in the world), children can immerse themselves in natural history in the heart of the city.
If you're looking for a bit of fresh air and freedom, the Parisian parks are your best bet. The Jardin du Luxembourg is famous for its ponds where children sail wooden boats, while the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers an adventure playground with caves and a waterfall. For a more scientific and interactive approach, the Cité des Enfants (within the Cité des Sciences in La Villette) is a technological paradise where you can learn while having fun.
Tip from Monsieur de France: To prevent the little ones from getting tired too quickly, don't hesitate to use the Batobus. It's a fun alternative to the metro that allows you to see the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Notre Dame from the Seine, while stopping wherever you like. Finally, for a gourmet break, hot chocolate at Angelina or a crêpe near Square Louise Michel in Montmartre will leave lasting memories for young explorers. By planning short visits (maximum 1.5 hours per museum), you'll keep their enthusiasm intact throughout the trip.
Free Paris: what to see and which museums to visit without paying?
Visiting Paris for free is entirely possible, even for first-time visitors.
Many iconic monuments can be viewed freely from the outside, such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre, Place de la Concorde, the banks of the Seine, and the Luxembourg Gardens. Paris also offers several museums that are always free to visit, including the Musée Carnavalet (history of Paris), the Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris, and the Petit Palais. Most of Paris's major museums are free on the first Sunday of the month, including the Louvre, the Musée d'Orsay, and the Centre Pompidou. This is an excellent option for discovering Parisian culture on a budget, provided you plan ahead for crowds and opening hours.
Experiencing Paris on a daily basis: free Wi-Fi, water, and services
To fully enjoy the capital in 2026, it is essential to know the logistical tips that make life easier for travelers. Paris is a generous city that offers many free public services, as long as you know where to look for them. To stay connected without using up your mobile data plan, you can rely on the Paris Wi-Fi network, available in more than 260 parks and libraries. In terms of comfort, the city has a unique network of free public toilets and drinking fountains, including the famous Wallace fountains. For travelers with children and those with large suitcases, Paris is not always very practical, but you will find some suitable metro lines and places to store your belongings.
IX The History of Paris: From the Mud of Lutetia to the Splendor of the City of Light
Understanding Paris is not just about admiring monuments; it's about deciphering the successive layers of a city that has rebuilt itself over more than two millennia. It all began on the Île de la Cité, the true cradle of the capital, where the Gallic tribe of the Parisii settled to take advantage of the natural protection offered by the Seine. But it was with the Roman conquest that the city first flourished under the name of Lutetia. The remains of this Gallo-Roman era are still visible today, if you know where to look: the Arènes de Lutèce, hidden in the 5th arrondissement, could accommodate 15,000 spectators for gladiatorial combats, while the Thermes de Cluny bear witness to ancient refinement in the heart of the Latin Quarter.
A Roman merchant ship in the 3rd century. Illustration chosen by Monsieurdefrance.Com: Gun Powder Ma — Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=4595340
The Middle Ages transformed Paris into a city of labyrinths and faith. This was the era when construction began on Notre Dame Cathedral in 1163 and when Philippe Auguste built the city walls, sections of which can still be seen in the Marais district. Paris then became the intellectual beacon of Europe with the founding of the Sorbonne. But the city remained dark and narrow until the Grand Siècle of Louis XIV imposed a new vision. The Sun King wanted a city that reflected his power: he created the first royal squares (Place des Victoires, Place Vendôme) and had the Hôtel Royal des Invalides built for his wounded soldiers. Paris began to breathe and expand beyond its old ramparts, replaced by the tree-lined "Grands Boulevards."
The real shift towards modernity came in the 19th century. During the Second Empire, Napoleon III and his prefect, Baron Haussmann, launched a titanic project to "open up, unify, and beautify" the capital. Straight avenues were cut through, modern sewer systems were created, and architectural unity was imposed on the stone buildings that today give Paris its worldwide charm. It was this Haussmannian structure that served as the backdrop for the great World's Fairs.
The year 1889 marked the apotheosis of the industrial era with the construction of the Eiffel Tower. Designed as a temporary installation, it became a symbol of French technical audacity. A few years later, in 1900, the arrival of the Metro and the inauguration of the Grand Palais definitively sealed Paris's status as the "City of Light," the first modern metropolis to be massively lit by electricity. Walking through Paris today means walking on Roman cobblestones, looking up at Gothic bell towers, and marveling at iron and glass structures, each era having left its indelible mark on the capital's pavement.
X. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Preparing for your trip to Paris in 2026
What to see in Paris on a first visit?
For a first visit to Paris, focus on the major must-see attractions. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame (exterior), Montmartre, and the banks of the Seine give a complete overview of the city. Add to that a stroll through a neighborhood such as the Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and you'll discover the essentials without spreading yourself too thin.
What to see in Paris in one day?
When visiting Paris for just one day, it's best to choose a concentrated and logical itinerary. Spend the morning around Île de la Cité and the Louvre, the afternoon along the Seine and the Tuileries, then head to Montmartre or enjoy an evening stroll. The goal is to see the major landmarks without wasting time on transportation.
Which monuments in Paris are a must-see?
The must-see monuments of Paris are those that symbolize its history and image. The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, and Sacré-Cœur are among the top attractions. Even without going inside, seeing them from the outside gives you a sense of the soul of the capital.
What to see in Paris when it rains?
When it rains in Paris, it's best to stick to covered areas and lively neighborhoods. Museums, covered passageways, churches, and large cafés allow you to continue sightseeing in comfort. Certain neighborhoods, such as the Marais or Saint-Germain, remain pleasant even in the rain thanks to their cultural density.
What to visit in Paris with children?
Paris offers many tours that are suitable for children without being boring. Gardens such as the Luxembourg Gardens and the Tuileries, riverboat tours, zoos, and certain interactive museums are particularly popular. The key is to limit distances and vary activities to avoid fatigue.
How many days does it take to visit Paris?
Ideally, you need three to five days to really visit Paris. Three days will allow you to see the major sights, while five days will give you time to explore neighborhoods, visit museums, and stroll around. Beyond that, you can discover a more local and less touristy Paris.
When is the best time to visit Paris?
Spring and fall are the best times to visit Paris. The temperatures are pleasant, the city is lively, and the crowds are more bearable than in summer. Winter can also be interesting for museums and walks, provided you don't mind the colder weather.
What will be the most visited monument in Paris in 2026?
Since its triumphant reopening, Notre-Dame Cathedral has regained its place as France's most visited monument, ahead of the Louvre Museum and the Eiffel Tower. It is particularly crowded on weekends, so we recommend visiting early in the morning on a weekday.
How to book tickets for Paris monuments?
In 2026, almost all major sites require online reservations with time slots. For the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, book at least one month in advance. For the Catacombs, tickets go on sale online exactly seven days before the date of your visit. Don't travel without your digital confirmation on your smartphone.
Which monuments can you visit for free in Paris?
Paris remains accessible if you know the right tips. Admission to the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur is free, as is access to the nave of Notre-Dame. Historic gardens such as the Tuileries, the Luxembourg and the Palais Royal are open to the public free of charge. Finally, the Petit Palais and the Musée Carnavalet offer free access to their permanent collections. Paris offers many free tours, ideal for those on a tight budget. The gardens, the banks of the Seine, Montmartre, and Notre Dame are freely accessible. Several museums, such as the Carnavalet Museum and the Petit Palais, are free all year round, and the major museums are free on the first Sunday of the month.
How do I get to the Palace of Versailles from central Paris?
The easiest and fastest way in 2026 is still the RER C (yellow line) towards "Versailles Rive Gauche." The trip takes about 30 minutes. Be sure to buy a specific "Origin-Destination" ticket, as the standard metro pass (Ticket t+) is not valid for this zone.
Is it necessary to make a reservation for the Pantheon and the Arc de Triomphe?
Yes, to avoid queues that can exceed an hour, online booking is strongly recommended. This allows you to go directly to the "reserved tickets" line, which is much faster, especially if you want to go up to the roof of the Arc de Triomphe at sunset.
Can you still see artists painting in Montmartre?
Absolutely. The Place du Tertre still welcomes its portrait artists. However, to experience the authentic bohemian spirit of 2026, Monsieur de France suggests visiting the Musée de Montmartre or strolling near the vineyards of Clos Montmartre, where the village atmosphere has been preserved.
When is the best time to admire the Pont Alexandre III?
For photography enthusiasts, the blue hour (just after sunset) is magical. The bridge's gilding lights up, creating a striking contrast with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the background. It is one of the most romantic moments in Paris.
On which days are Parisian museums closed?
It's a classic trap: the Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays, while the Musée d'Orsay and the Palace of Versailles are closed on Mondays. Always check the official calendar before planning your itinerary.
How long does it take to visit the Catacombs?
The underground route is approximately 1.5 km long and the visit lasts an average of 45 minutes to 1 hour. Please note that there are 131 steps to descend and 112 to climb. The temperature is a constant 14°C, so bring a light sweater even in summer!
Where can you eat typical Parisian food without breaking the bank in 2026?
Head to the Bouillons (Bouillon Chartier, Bouillon Julien, or Bouillon Pigalle). Here you can enjoy classics such as beef bourguignon or eggs with mayonnaise in listed Art Nouveau surroundings, offering unbeatable value for money in the heart of the capital.
Is the water from Wallace fountains really drinkable?
Yes, the 120 Wallace fountains in Paris distribute free, cool water that is carefully monitored by the city. It is both a historic and ecological initiative that Monsieur de France strongly encourages in order to limit the use of plastic.
Which bridges are best for a stroll along the Seine?
In addition to the unmissable Pont Alexandre III, don't miss the Pont Neuf (the oldest bridge in Paris) and the Pont des Arts for its breathtaking view of the Institut de France and the Louvre.
Is the water safe to drink in Paris?
Yes, tap water is of excellent quality and free at all public fountains (Wallace).
On which days are museums closed?
The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, while the Musée d'Orsay and Versailles are closed on Mondays.
Should you leave a tip at a restaurant?
Service is included in France, but it is customary to leave a tip if the service was excellent.
Where can you see the most beautiful view of Paris for free?
The roof of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann offers spectacular views without spending a penny.
