Top 20 Paris Attractions with Map: Plan for the Perfect Tour

Paris is a city brimming with timeless beauty, captivating culture, and iconic landmarks that have stood for centuries, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe. Whether you’re gazing at the grandeur of the Eiffel Tower, stepping into the artistic treasure trove of the Louvre, or strolling through the lush gardens of Versailles, the City of Light offers unforgettable experiences that capture the essence of French heritage. Embark on a journey through the top 20 attractions on our map, where each monument, museum, and charming neighborhood tells its own unique story, creating the perfect blend of history, art, and modern-day Parisian flair. Ready to explore? Let’s dive into the top 20 destinations that will make your Paris adventure truly extraordinary.

5-Star Attractions: Symbols of Pairs

1. Eiffel Tower (La Tour Eiffel) – Paris’s Iconic Landmark

• Ticket Price:
  • Summit (Lift): €26.80
  • 2nd Floor (Lift): €16.60
  • Stairs to 2nd Floor: €10.50
  • Free: Children under 4, disabled visitors (with a companion)
• Opening Hours:
  • Open daily from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM (last entry 11:00 PM)
• Address:
  • Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France
  • Located on the left bank of the River Seine, near the Eiffel Tower park and several popular museums.
• Highlights: Standing at 330 meters, the Eiffel Tower isn’t just a symbol of Paris; it’s an experience. The views from the second floor and summit are breathtaking, offering a panoramic look at the city. The tower’s iron lattice structure, designed by Gustave Eiffel, is a marvel of engineering, and at night, it sparkles every hour on the hour for 5 minutes – it’s truly magical. Whether you’re admiring the view, visiting the restaurants, or taking a selfie, a trip here is quintessential to any Paris adventure. Make sure you book tickets in advance to skip the lines!

2. Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre) – A Treasure Trove of Art and History

• Ticket Price:
  • General Admission: €17
  • Free Admission: Visitors under 18
• Opening Hours:
  • Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday and Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:45 PM
  • Closed on Tuesdays, January 1, May 1, and December 25.
• Address:
  • Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
  • Located in the 1st arrondissement, along the right bank of the River Seine, near the Palais Royal and the Tuileries Garden.
• Highlights: The Louvre, once a royal palace, now houses an unparalleled collection of art spanning from ancient civilizations to the 19th century. Its iconic glass pyramid entrance leads you into a world of masterpieces. Don’t miss the Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile, the grandeur of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, and the graceful Venus de Milo. With over 35,000 works on display, it’s easy to feel like a kid in a candy store – albeit a very, very large one. To make the most of your visit, consider focusing on specific sections or artists, as the museum’s vastness can be overwhelming. And remember, the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, so plan accordingly.

3. Palace of Versailles (Château de Versailles) – A Glimpse into Royal Grandeur

• Ticket Price:
  • Palace Ticket: €21
  • Free Admission: Visitors under 18
• Opening Hours:
  • Palace:
    • High Season (April 1 – October 31): 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
    • Low Season (November 1 – March 31): 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Gardens:
    • High Season: 8:00 AM – 8:30 PM
    • Low Season: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Trianon Palaces and Marie-Antoinette Estate:
    • High Season: 12:00 PM – 6:30 PM
    • Low Season: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Closed on Mondays and certain public holidays.
• Address:
  • Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France
  • Located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of central Paris, easily accessible by RER C train from central Paris.
• Highlights: The Palace of Versailles, once the opulent residence of French kings, offers a captivating journey through royal history. The Hall of Mirrors, with its dazzling chandeliers and reflective surfaces, is a must-see. The meticulously landscaped gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre, feature ornate fountains and sculptures. Don’t miss the Trianon Palaces and the Estate of Marie-Antoinette, which provide insight into the private lives of the royal family. To fully immerse yourself, consider exploring the Musical Fountains Show during the summer months, where the gardens come alive with music and water displays.

4. Notre-Dame Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris) – A Masterpiece of Gothic Architecture

• Ticket Price:
  • General Admission: Free entry to the cathedral. Certain areas, such as the towers require a ticket.
• Opening Hours:
  • Monday to Friday: 7:50 AM – 7:00 PM (until 10:00 PM on Thursdays)
  • Saturday and Sunday: 8:15 AM – 7:30 PM
  • Please note that these hours are subject to change; it’s advisable to check the official website before your visit.
• Address:
  • 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
  • Located on the Île de la Cité, a small island in the River Seine, in the heart of Paris.
• Highlights: Notre-Dame Cathedral, a pinnacle of Gothic architecture, has stood for over 850 years. Its intricate façade, adorned with sculptures and gargoyles, is a testament to medieval craftsmanship. Inside, the cathedral boasts stunning stained glass windows, including the renowned Rose Windows, which bathe the interior in colorful light. The soaring vaulted ceilings and the impressive organ add to the cathedral’s grandeur. While the towers are currently closed for restoration, the cathedral remains a place of worship and a symbol of Parisian resilience.

4-Star Attractions: Feel the Vibe of Paris

5. Orsay Museum (Musée d’Orsay) – A Journey Through Impressionist Brilliance

• Ticket Price:
  • General Admission: €16
  • Late Opening on Thursdays: €12
  • Free Admission: Visitors under 18
• Opening Hours:
  • Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM (last entry at 5:00 PM)
  • Thursday Late Opening: 9:30 AM – 9:45 PM (last entry at 9:00 PM)
  • Closed on Mondays, May 1, and December 25.
• Address:
  • 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France
  • Situated in the 7th arrondissement, along the left bank of the River Seine, near the Musée de l’Orangerie and the Tuileries Garden.
• Highlights: Housed in a former railway station, the Orsay Museum is a haven for art enthusiasts. Its collection spans from 1848 to 1914, featuring masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir. The museum’s architecture, with its grand clock and expansive glass roof, is a work of art in itself. Don’t miss the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist galleries, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and innovative techniques that defined an era. Given the museum’s popularity, especially on Thursdays during late opening hours, it’s advisable to book your tickets in advance to ensure a seamless visit.

6. Arc de Triomphe – A Monument to French Grandeur

• Ticket Price:
  • General Admission: €16
  • Free Admission: For visitors under 18
• Opening Hours:
  • April to September: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (last entry at 10:15 PM)
  • October to March: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM (last entry at 9:45 PM)
  • Closed on: January 1, May 1, July 14 (morning), November 11 (morning), and December 25.
• Address:
  • Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France
  • Located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle.
• Highlights: The Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to honor his army’s victories, stands as a testament to French military prowess. Its intricate reliefs and sculptures depict scenes from the Napoleonic Wars, offering a glimpse into France’s storied past. Climbing the 284 steps to the summit rewards visitors with a panoramic view of Paris, including the iconic Champs-Élysées stretching towards the Place de la Concorde. At the base, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier commemorates those who died in World War I.

7. Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) – A Parisian Oasis

• Ticket Price:
  • Garden Access: Free for all visitors.
  • Luxembourg Palace: Admission fees apply for the palace and its exhibitions.
• Opening Hours:
  • Garden:
    • April to September: 7:30 AM – 8:15 PM
    • October to March: 8:15 AM – 4:30 PM
  • Luxembourg Palace: Opening hours vary; refer to the official website for details.
• Address:
  • 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France
  • Located in the 6th arrondissement, near the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
• Highlights: The Luxembourg Gardens, or Jardin du Luxembourg, offer a serene escape in the heart of Paris. Spanning 25 hectares, the gardens feature meticulously manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and the iconic Medici Fountain. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls, relax by the pond with its model sailboats, or observe locals playing pétanque. The gardens also house the French Senate within the Luxembourg Palace. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or a taste of Parisian life, the Luxembourg Gardens provide a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

8. Sainte-Chapelle – A Gothic Jewel in the Heart of Paris

• Ticket Price:
  • General Admission: €11.50
  • Reduced Rate: €8 (for 18-25-year-olds from the EU)
  • Free Admission: For visitors under 18
• Opening Hours:
  • April 1st to September 30th: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • October 1st to March 31st: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
  • Last Access: 30 minutes before closing time
  • Closed on: January 1, May 1, and December 25
• Address:
  • 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
  • Located on the Île de la Cité, near the Palais de Justice and the Conciergerie.
• Highlights: Sainte-Chapelle, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, was commissioned by King Louis IX in the 13th century to house his collection of Passion relics. Its most striking feature is the upper chapel, where 15 towering stained glass windows depict biblical scenes in vibrant colors, creating a mesmerizing kaleidoscope of light. The intricate stonework and delicate arches add to the chapel’s ethereal beauty. Given its central location on the Île de la Cité, it’s an ideal stop when exploring Paris’s historic heart. To fully appreciate the splendor, consider visiting on a sunny day when the sunlight enhances the colors of the stained glass.

9. Seine River – The Lifeblood of Paris

• Ticket Price:
  • Sightseeing Cruises: Prices start from approximately €13 per person.
  • Dinner Cruises: Prices vary; for example, a gourmet dinner cruise with champagne starts at $126 per adult.
• Opening Hours:
  • Sightseeing Cruises: Depart approximately every 30 minutes between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM.
  • Dinner Cruises: Typically in the evening; exact times vary by provider.
• Address:
  • Various departure points along the Seine, including near the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Highlights: The Seine River, often referred to as the “lifeblood of Paris,” gracefully winds through the city, offering a unique vantage point of its most iconic landmarks. A Seine river cruise provides an unparalleled perspective of Parisian architecture, including the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the historic Louvre Museum, and the elegant Eiffel Tower. Whether you opt for a daytime sightseeing cruise or a romantic dinner cruise, the experience allows you to glide beneath the city’s historic bridges and along the quays, immersing yourself in the ambiance that has inspired artists and poets for centuries. Given the central location of many departure points, it’s an ideal way to see Paris from a different angle.

10. Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris (Basilique du Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre) – A Beacon of Parisian Spirituality

• Ticket Price:
  • Basilica: Free admission.
  • Dome and Crypt: €7 for visitors aged 16 and over.
• Opening Hours:
  • Basilica: Open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
  • Dome and Crypt: Open daily; hours vary by season:
    • June to September: 9:00 AM – 8:30 PM
    • October to February: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
    • March to April: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
    • Last admission 30 minutes before closing.
• Address:
  • 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France
  • Located in the Montmartre district, atop the Butte Montmartre hill, offering panoramic views of Paris.
• Highlights: Perched atop Montmartre, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, or Sacré-Cœur, is a beacon of Parisian spirituality and architectural grandeur. Its gleaming white domes, constructed from travertine stone, stand out against the Paris skyline. Inside, the basilica boasts one of the world’s largest mosaics, “Christ in Majesty,” which glistens with golden hues. For a modest fee, visitors can ascend the dome via 300 steps (no elevator) to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city – a sight that, on clear days, stretches to the distant suburbs. The crypt, accessible for the same fee, offers a serene space for reflection. Given its location in the lively Montmartre district, a visit to Sacré-Cœur can be seamlessly combined with exploring the artistic ambiance of the area, including the Place du Tertre, where artists display their works.

11. Paris Opera House (Opéra Garnier) – A Symbol of Elegance and Grandeur

• Ticket Price:
  • Guided Tour: Approximately €15 for adults, €10 for children under 12 years old.
  • Performance Tickets: Vary depending on the show; prices typically range from €10 to €200+.
• Opening Hours:
  • Opéra Garnier Museum & Guided Tours: Daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
  • Performances: Evening performances typically start around 7:30 PM.
• Address:
  • Address: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris, France.
  • Location: Situated in the 9th arrondissement, right at the heart of Paris, easily accessible by metro (Opéra station).
• Highlights: The Paris Opera House, or Opéra Garnier, is an iconic symbol of elegance and grandeur. Known for its magnificent architecture, it is a masterpiece designed by Charles Garnier and completed in 1875. Visitors can explore its opulent interiors, featuring the grand staircase, luxurious chandeliers, and stunning ceiling painted by Marc Chagall. The Palais Garnier is also famous for inspiring The Phantom of the Opera. Don’t miss the library-museum and the breathtaking views from the upper galleries.

3-Star Attractions: Enrich Your Days in Paris

12. Fontainebleau Castle (Château de Fontainebleau) – A Iconic Renaissance Architecture

• Ticket Price:
  • General Admission: €12 for adults.
  • Reduced Price: €9 for visitors aged 18-25 and other eligible groups.
  • Free Entry: For children under 18 and European Union residents under 26.
• Opening Hours:
  • Daily: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Closed on Tuesdays and some public holidays.
  • Last entry: 1 hour before closing.
• Address:
  • Address: 77300 Fontainebleau, France.
  • Location: About 55 kilometers southeast of Paris, easily accessible by train (direct line from Paris Gare de Lyon).
• Highlights: Fontainebleau Castle is a stunning example of Renaissance and classical architecture, once a royal residence for French kings and emperors, including Napoleon Bonaparte. Its beautiful gardens and ornate interiors offer a glimpse into France’s regal past. Notable highlights include the Grand Apartments, the Gallery of Diana, and the Napoleon I’s apartments, where you can explore rooms rich with history and luxurious decorations. The sprawling gardens and the surrounding forest provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of Paris.

13. Champs-Élysées – Paris’s Grand Stage

• Ticket Price:
  • Free: There’s no entry fee to walk along the avenue itself, but be mindful of the attractions and shops along the way, where prices for experiences vary (e.g., cafes, theaters, and museums like the Grand Palais or Petit Palais).
• Opening Hours:
  • Daily: Open 24 hours for strolling, but shops and restaurants typically operate from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
  • Special Events: Check the schedule for events like the annual Bastille Day parade.
• Address:
  • Address: Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France.
  • Location: Running from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées is situated in the 8th arrondissement of Paris, easily accessible by metro (Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau or Franklin D. Roosevelt stations).
• Highlights: The Champs-Élysées is more than just an avenue – it’s Paris’s grand stage, where history, culture, and shopping come together. As you stroll along this tree-lined boulevard, you’ll pass luxurious boutiques, iconic cafes, and theaters. At the western end, the Arc de Triomphe stands proudly, offering panoramic views of the city (which you can climb for a small fee). The avenue also hosts spectacular events like the annual Bastille Day parade and the finish line of the Tour de France.

14. Montmartre – Mount of Martyrs

• Ticket Price:
  • Free: Strolling through Montmartre is free, but certain attractions, like the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Basilique du Sacré-Cœur), have entry fees for specific areas (e.g., the dome or crypt).
• Opening Hours:
  • Daily: Open 24/7 for exploring the streets, but specific attractions like museums and the Basilica typically operate from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Address:
  • Address: Montmartre, 75018 Paris, France.
  • Location: Located in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is a hilltop district easily accessible via the Anvers or Abbesses metro stations.
• Highlights: Montmartre is the quintessential bohemian neighborhood of Paris, a place where artists like Picasso and Van Gogh once roamed. One of the most iconic spots is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, sitting proudly at the summit, offering stunning panoramic views of Paris. Wander the narrow, winding streets, and you’ll find charming cafés, art galleries, and the famous Place du Tertre, where artists still set up their easels. Don’t miss the Musée de Montmartre, a small museum dedicated to the area’s vibrant artistic history, or the Moulin Rouge, Paris’s iconic cabaret.

15. Pont Alexandre III – Paris’s most beautiful bridge

• Ticket Price:
  • Free: There is no fee to walk across the bridge. However, you may want to consider a nearby cruise or boat tour along the Seine for a different perspective of the bridge, which could have varying prices.
• Opening Hours:
  • Open 24/7: You can stroll across the bridge anytime. It’s one of the most photographed bridges in Paris, so be prepared for crowds, especially during sunset.
• Address:
  • Address: Pont Alexandre III, 75007 Paris, France.
  • Location: The bridge spans the Seine River, connecting the Champs-Élysées quarter (8th arrondissement) with the Invalides area (7th arrondissement). The nearest metro stations are Invalides and Alma-Marceau.
• Highlights: Pont Alexandre III is arguably Paris’s most beautiful bridge, known for its opulent design, ornate sculptures, and stunning views. Built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, it’s a stunning symbol of the Franco-Russian alliance. The bridge features gilded statues of winged horses, elaborate lamps, and the famous Parisian-style arches that span the Seine. The views from the bridge are spectacular, especially towards the Grand Palais and the Eiffel Tower, offering one of the best photo ops in Paris.

16. Orangerie Museum (Musée de l’Orangerie) – The Tapestry of French Art History

• Ticket Price:
  • Full Price: €12.50
  • Reduced Price: €10 (for visitors aged 18-25 and other eligible groups)
  • Free Admission: For children under 18 and European Union residents under 26.
• Opening Hours:
  • Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Last Admission: 5:15 PM (rooms close at 5:45 PM)
  • Closed on: May 1, July 14 (morning), and December 25.
• Address:
  • Address: Jardin des Tuileries, Place de la Concorde (Seine side), 75001 Paris, France
  • Location: Situated in the 1st arrondissement, the museum is nestled within the Tuileries Garden, adjacent to the Place de la Concorde. It’s easily accessible via the Concorde metro station (Lines 1, 8, and 12).
• Highlights: The Musée de l’Orangerie is a haven for art enthusiasts, housing Claude Monet’s monumental Water Lilies murals, which envelop visitors in serene, immersive landscapes. Beyond Monet, the museum showcases an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by artists such as Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Renoir. The intimate setting allows for a contemplative experience, with natural light enhancing the artworks’ vibrancy. Located in the heart of Paris, the museum offers a tranquil retreat amidst the city’s hustle.

17. Le Marais – The Historic Paris

• Ticket Price:
  • Free to explore (Some attractions like museums or galleries may charge entry fees)
• Opening Hours:
  • Open year-round, most shops and galleries are open from 10 AM to 7 PM (Closed on Sundays for some)
• Address:
  • Address: Le Marais, Paris 3rd and 4th Arrondissement, Paris, France
  • Location: Situated in the heart of Paris, on the Right Bank of the Seine, just a short walk from places like the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and the Pompidou Centre.
• Highlights of Le Marais: Le Marais is a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication. Stroll through its historic lanes, where you’ll find chic boutiques, charming cafés, and galleries. Visit the stunning Place des Vosges, one of the oldest squares in Paris, perfect for a peaceful break. Art lovers will enjoy the Musée Picasso and Musée Carnavalet, while foodies should definitely try the falafel at L’As du Fallafel or explore the Marché des Enfants Rouges. The district is a melting pot of Parisian culture, offering a little something for everyone – from history buffs to fashionistas!

18. Rodin Museum (Musée Rodin) – Sculpture of the Thinker

• Ticket Price:
  • Full price: €13
  • Reduced price: €10 (for those aged 18-25, European Union residents)
  • Free: For under 18s, teachers, and those with disabilities
• Opening Hours:
  • Daily: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry at 6:00 PM)
  • Closed on Mondays
• Address:
  • Address: 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France.
  • Location: Situated in the 7th arrondissement, just a short walk from the Hôtel des Invalides.
• Highlights: The Rodin Museum is housed in the Hôtel Biron, a beautiful 18th-century mansion, and features a stunning garden where many of Rodin’s most famous sculptures are displayed, including The Thinker and The Gates of Hell. Inside, you’ll find a wide array of his works, from monumental sculptures to personal drawings and letters. The museum also showcases the works of his lover and muse, Camille Claudel. The garden is a peaceful retreat, perfect for appreciating his art while surrounded by nature.

19. Père-Lachaise Cemetery – The Resting Places of Literary Giants

• Ticket Price:
  • Free entry for most of the cemetery.
  • Guided tours may have an additional cost (around €15-€20).
• Opening Hours:
  • Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM
  • last entry at 5:30 PM.
• Address:
  • Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020 Paris, France.
  • Location: Located in the 20th arrondissement, a bit off the usual tourist tracks but easily accessible by metro (Line 2, Père-Lachaise station).
• Highlights: Père-Lachaise Cemetery is a peaceful sanctuary with a fascinating mix of architecture, art, and history. It is the final resting place of many famous figures, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Édith Piaf, and Marcel Proust. Wander among the intricate tombs and monuments scattered across its 44 hectares, with some particularly beautiful art-deco structures. The cemetery’s serene atmosphere and impressive sculptures make it not just a burial ground, but a sprawling open-air museum, ideal for a quiet afternoon stroll. Perfect for those who love history, art, or a bit of Gothic charm!

20. Centre Pompidou (Centre National d’Art et de Culture Georges Pompidou)

• Ticket Price:
  • €14 for permanent collections
  • Free for under 18s
• Opening Hours:
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
• Address:
  • Address: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris, France
  • Location: Located in the vibrant Le Marais district, just a short walk from the Les Halles shopping center and the historic area of the Centre Beaubourg.
• Highlights: The Centre Pompidou is the beating heart of contemporary culture in Paris. Its industrial, modern architecture, with colorful pipes and exposed mechanics, is a masterpiece in itself, designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. Inside, you’ll find a treasure trove of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Duchamp. The Georges Pompidou also boasts a renowned public library, cinemas, and an immersive rooftop with panoramic views of the city. It’s the perfect place to marvel at Paris from above while soaking up world-class culture below. Be prepared for surprises and avant-garde experiences!