Discover Paris

From iconic landmarks and beautiful architecture to pavement cafés, world-famous museums and fantastic food, Paris is one of Europe’s great city break destinations. Whether you’re planning a weekend in Paris, travelling for a concert or special event, or spending a few days exploring the French capital, there’s always something new to discover.

My own connection with Paris goes back to 1990, when I first travelled there by bus to see a concert. It was quite an adventure and my first introduction to a city I’ve returned to several times since.

On later visits, I’ve had the chance to experience more of the city and some of the best-known things to do in Paris, including heading up the Eiffel Tower for wonderful views across the capital.

Another favourite memory is enjoying lunch on a River Seine cruise. Cruising through the heart of Paris while having lunch was a wonderfully relaxed way to see many of the city’s famous landmarks from a completely different perspective.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re returning for another Paris city break, you can explore famous sights, wander through characterful neighbourhoods, visit galleries and museums, enjoy French food or combine your stay with a Paris concert break.

Whatever brings you to the City of Light, Paris has a habit of giving you plenty of reasons to return.

Things to Do in Paris

There’s far more to Paris than simply ticking famous landmarks off a list. Spend your days exploring historic neighbourhoods, browsing museums and galleries, relaxing in pavement cafés or discovering the city from the River Seine.

Whether you’re visiting Paris for the first time or returning to see more, here are some of the highlights worth adding to your stay.

Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris feels quite complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Admire it from across the Seine, enjoy the views from the Champ de Mars or head up the tower for panoramic views across the city.

I’ve been up the Eiffel Tower myself, and seeing Paris spread out below is one of those classic experiences that’s well worth doing at least once.

Cruise the River Seine

A River Seine cruise offers a completely different view of Paris. Sail beneath historic bridges and past some of the city’s best-known landmarks while watching everyday Parisian life along the riverbanks.

You can choose from sightseeing cruises or make more of the experience with lunch or dinner on board. I’ve enjoyed a lunch cruise on the Seine, and it’s a lovely, relaxed way to combine sightseeing with good food.

Explore Montmartre

Wander the cobbled streets of Montmartre, once home to some of the world’s most famous artists. Explore its little streets and cafés before making your way to the white-domed Sacré-Cœur Basilica, where you’ll find wonderful views across Paris.

Visit the Louvre

Home to one of the world’s great art collections, the Louvre Museum deserves plenty of time. Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, the building, courtyards and famous glass pyramid are sights in their own right.

Discover Parisian Café Culture

Sometimes one of the best things to do in Paris is simply stop.

Find a pavement café, order a coffee and croissant and watch the city go by. From traditional neighbourhood cafés to elegant restaurants and pâtisseries filled with tempting French pastries, food is very much part of the Paris experience.

See Paris Your Way

You don’t need to squeeze everything into one visit. Explore the famous sights, take a river cruise, discover a neighbourhood you’ve never visited before or combine your stay with one of the city’s many concerts, shows and special events.

And if you don’t manage everything? That’s a very good excuse to come back.