Destination guideÎle-de-France · France
37 Things to Do in Paris (2026)
Paris is the capital of France and is situated on the Seine River. The city was founded on the Île de la Cité, where the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris stands. Its historical development spans from the Roman period to the present, with notable architectural styles including Gothic, Renaissance, Neoclassical, and Haussmannian. ### Historical Heritage and Architecture Paris contains 2,185 historical and contemporary monuments.
Updated September 24, 2026 · 37 places verified against live place data
- 37 spots
- 10 must-try dishes
- Researched September 2026
- 24 sources
The short answer
- Start with Hôtel de la Marine, Grand Palais and Tour Hekla (Puteaux), the places the research led with.
- For food, Salted Bread and Pâté en Croûte lead the must-try list; the full list of places to eat is on the Paris food guide.
- The best time to visit Paris is from late April to early June or September to October, when the weather is mild and the city’s parks are in full bloom or vibrant autumn color.
37 places worth your time in Paris
Things to see and do
Hôtel de la Marine
This 18th-century neoclassical palace on Place de la Concorde has integrated modern architectural interventions, most notably a contemporary glass-and-steel skylight over its Intendant's Courtyard.
- Hôtel de la MarineThis 18th-century neoclassical palace on Place de la Concorde has integrated modern architectural interventions, most notably a contemporary glass-and-steel skylight over its Intendant's Courtyard.
2 Pl. de la Concorde, 75008 Paris, France
Grand Palais
Following a multi-year restoration, this iconic Beaux-Arts landmark has fully reopened its central nave and the Rotonde d'Antin.
- Grand PalaisFollowing a multi-year restoration, this iconic Beaux-Arts landmark has fully reopened its central nave and the Rotonde d'Antin.
75008 Paris, France
Tour Hekla
A striking addition to the skyline by Jean Nouvel, this 220-meter skyscraper is characterized by its prismatic composition and metallic 'brise-soleil' sunshades.
- Tour HeklaA striking addition to the skyline by Jean Nouvel, this 220-meter skyscraper is characterized by its prismatic composition and metallic 'brise-soleil' sunshades.
Rue de la Demi Lune, 92800 Puteaux, France
Pont de Bir-Hakeim
This two-level steel bridge is a cinematic masterpiece, famous for its Art Deco styling and distinctive rows of hanging lamps that create dramatic leading lines.
- Pont de Bir-HakeimThis two-level steel bridge is a cinematic masterpiece, famous for its Art Deco styling and distinctive rows of hanging lamps that create dramatic leading lines.
Pont de Bir-Hakeim, Paris, France
Camoëns Avenue
A quiet, dead-end street that provides one of the most elegant and framed views of the Eiffel Tower without the overwhelming crowds of Trocadéro.
- Camoëns AvenueA quiet, dead-end street that provides one of the most elegant and framed views of the Eiffel Tower without the overwhelming crowds of Trocadéro.
Av. de Camoens, 75116 Paris, France
Bourdelle Museum
The museum is currently presenting 'The Artist's Fabric' (L'habit fait l'artiste), a major exhibition launched on September 23, 2026, exploring the relationship between artists and their clothing.
- Bourdelle MuseumThe museum is currently presenting 'The Artist's Fabric' (L'habit fait l'artiste), a major exhibition launched on September 23, 2026, exploring the relationship between artists and their clothing.
18 Rue Antoine Bourdelle, 75015 Paris, France
Rue de l'Abreuvoir
Often cited as the most beautiful street in the city, this winding cobblestone lane is defined by its vibrant ivy-covered walls and the iconic pink facade of La Maison Rose.
- Rue de l'AbreuvoirOften cited as the most beautiful street in the city, this winding cobblestone lane is defined by its vibrant ivy-covered walls and the iconic pink facade of La Maison Rose.
Rue de l'Abreuvoir, 75018 Paris, France
Ixcampus
A newly expanded technology hub in the western suburbs, featuring two major contemporary buildings by Baumschlager Eberle completed in late 2026.
- IxcampusA newly expanded technology hub in the western suburbs, featuring two major contemporary buildings by Baumschlager Eberle completed in late 2026.
34 Rue de la Croix de Fer, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France
Musée Jacquemart-André
This opulent 19th-century mansion, recently reopened after extensive restoration, is currently presenting 'Éternel Tintoret' (September 11, 2026 – January 24, 2027).
- Musée Jacquemart-AndréThis opulent 19th-century mansion, recently reopened after extensive restoration, is currently presenting 'Éternel Tintoret' (September 11, 2026 – January 24, 2027).
158 Bd Haussmann, 75008 Paris, France
Musée d'Art Moderne de Paris
This municipal institution dedicated to 20th and 21st-century art is currently hosting the first major French retrospective for American artist Kerry James Marshall (September 18, 2026 – January 24, 2027).
- Musée d'Art Moderne de ParisThis municipal institution dedicated to 20th and 21st-century art is currently hosting the first major French retrospective for American artist Kerry James Marshall (September 18, 2026 – January 24, 2027).
11 Av. du Président Wilson, 75116 Paris, France
Petit Palais
Known as the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts, this architectural gem is currently spotlighting a long-overlooked Impressionist in 'Eva Gonzalès, Parcours d’une artiste libre' (September 15, 2026 – January 24, 2027).
- Petit PalaisKnown as the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts, this architectural gem is currently spotlighting a long-overlooked Impressionist in 'Eva Gonzalès, Parcours d’une artiste libre' (September 15, 2026 – January 24, 2027).
Av. Winston Churchill, 75008 Paris, France
Musée des Arts et Métiers
Dedicated to industrial design and technological innovation, this museum launched the 'Lady Liberté' exhibition on September 22, 2026.
- Musée des Arts et MétiersDedicated to industrial design and technological innovation, this museum launched the 'Lady Liberté' exhibition on September 22, 2026.
60 Rue Réaumur, 75003 Paris, France
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
This 25-hectare landscape is a local favorite for its dramatic, vertical topography built on a former gypsum quarry.
- Parc des Buttes-ChaumontThis 25-hectare landscape is a local favorite for its dramatic, vertical topography built on a former gypsum quarry.
75019 Paris, France
Bois de Vincennes
Spanning 995 hectares, this is the largest public park in Paris and a massive hub for outdoor recreation.
- Bois de VincennesSpanning 995 hectares, this is the largest public park in Paris and a massive hub for outdoor recreation. It contains four lakes where visitors can rent rowboats, over 17 miles of cycling and hiking trails, and a medieval fortress.
Rte de la Pyramide, 75012 Paris, France
Coulée Verte René-Dumont
Also known as the Promenade Plantée, this 4.7-kilometer linear park is an elevated green corridor built atop an obsolete 19th-century railway viaduct.
- Coulée Verte René-DumontAlso known as the Promenade Plantée, this 4.7-kilometer linear park is an elevated green corridor built atop an obsolete 19th-century railway viaduct.
Coulée Verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France
La Villette
This 55-hectare multipurpose park is the largest outdoor gym and cultural playground in Paris, characterized by its iconic red architectural 'follies.
- La VilletteThis 55-hectare multipurpose park is the largest outdoor gym and cultural playground in Paris, characterized by its iconic red architectural 'follies.
211 Av. Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris, France
Musée du Luxembourg
Situated in the heart of the Senate's gardens, this venue is presenting 'Andy Warhol: Line and Image' from September 16, 2026, to January 10, 2027.
- Musée du LuxembourgSituated in the heart of the Senate's gardens, this venue is presenting 'Andy Warhol: Line and Image' from September 16, 2026, to January 10, 2027.
19 Rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris, France
Galeries Lafayette Le Gourmet
This 4,500-square-meter temple of gastronomy has recently unveiled new experiential corners for September 2026.
- Galeries Lafayette Le GourmetThis 4,500-square-meter temple of gastronomy has recently unveiled new experiential corners for September 2026.
35 Bd Haussmann, 75009 Paris, France
Atelier Kintsugi simplifier
15 Rue des Fêtes, 75019 Paris, France
Where to eat
See the full Paris food guide: where to eat and what to order.
La Dame de Pic
This highly anticipated gastronomic venue opened on September 18, 2026, within the Fondation Cartier.
- La Dame de PicThis highly anticipated gastronomic venue opened on September 18, 2026, within the Fondation Cartier. It features the chef's 'Imprégnation' philosophy.
20 Rue du Louvre, 75001 Paris, France
Saku Vendôme
A refined Japanese 'jewel box' that recently opened in the 1st arrondissement, offering an intimate counter-seating experience focused on precision-cut sushi, maki, and sashimi.
- Saku VendômeA refined Japanese 'jewel box' that recently opened in the 1st arrondissement, offering an intimate counter-seating experience focused on precision-cut sushi, maki, and sashimi.
9 Rue du Mont Thabor, 75001 Paris, France
Eskal
Led by chef Alexandre Chambat, a finalist in the prestigious Meilleurs Ouvriers de France competition, this restaurant focuses on technical depth through maturation, curing, and fermentation.
- EskalLed by chef Alexandre Chambat, a finalist in the prestigious Meilleurs Ouvriers de France competition, this restaurant focuses on technical depth through maturation, curing, and fermentation.
47 Rue des Mathurins, 75008 Paris, France
Shwi
Inspired by the Lebanese 'farrouj meshwi,' this eatery opened in September 2026 and focuses on perfectly grilled poultry.
- ShwiInspired by the Lebanese 'farrouj meshwi,' this eatery opened in September 2026 and focuses on perfectly grilled poultry.
Try: Farrouj Meshwi (Lebanese Grilled Chicken)
60 Rue de Lancry, 75010 Paris, France
Salted boy
Following a viral pop-up success, this dedicated shop opened in late August 2026 to showcase 'salted bread'—a buttery, addictive Japanese-Korean hybrid pastry.
- Salted boyFollowing a viral pop-up success, this dedicated shop opened in late August 2026 to showcase 'salted bread'—a buttery, addictive Japanese-Korean hybrid pastry.
Try: Salted Bread
4 Rue Réaumur, 75003 Paris, France
Adami
A modern Italian pasta spot that rejects traditional trattoria aesthetics for a raw, contemporary decor.
- AdamiA modern Italian pasta spot that rejects traditional trattoria aesthetics for a raw, contemporary decor. It features a long counter where diners can share bold.
19bis Rue Pierre Fontaine, 75009 Paris, France
SELMACILEK
Opened in September 2026, this neighborhood bistro brings Turkish-influenced flavors to a classic Parisian corner setting.
- SELMACILEKOpened in September 2026, this neighborhood bistro brings Turkish-influenced flavors to a classic Parisian corner setting.
47 Rue du Four, 75006 Paris, France
Bittikesu
A minimalist ten-seat counter run by Québécois chef Jules St-Cyr, who brings experience from Noma and Ernst.
- BittikesuA minimalist ten-seat counter run by Québécois chef Jules St-Cyr, who brings experience from Noma and Ernst. The restaurant serves an evolving 15-course tasting menu that utilizes foraged wild herbs and vegetables from the chef's own.
5 Rue Crillon, 75004 Paris, France
Lissit
Known for: Pâté en Croûte. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- LissitKnown for: Pâté en Croûte. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Pâté en Croûte
48 Rue de la Folie Méricourt, 75011 Paris, France
Le Relais de l'Entrecôte
Known for: Steak Frites with Secret Sauce. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Le Relais de l'EntrecôteKnown for: Steak Frites with Secret Sauce. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Steak Frites with Secret Sauce
20 Rue Saint-Benoît, 75006 Paris, France
Ladurée
Known for: Macarons (Seasonal September Flavors). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- LaduréeKnown for: Macarons (Seasonal September Flavors). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Macarons (Seasonal September Flavors)
75 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France
Pierre Hermé
Known for: Macarons (Seasonal September Flavors). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- Pierre HerméKnown for: Macarons (Seasonal September Flavors). Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Macarons (Seasonal September Flavors)
72 Rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris, France
Mokochaya
Known for: Bento-style Japanese Fusion. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- MokochayaKnown for: Bento-style Japanese Fusion. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Bento-style Japanese Fusion
11 Rue Saint-Bernard, 75011 Paris, France
L'Escargot
Known for: Escargots de Bourgogne. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
- L'EscargotKnown for: Escargots de Bourgogne. Mentioned as a must-try spot in top foods.
Try: Escargots de Bourgogne
38 Rue Montorgueil, 75001 Paris, France
Brasserie Casel
16 Av. Victoria, 75001 Paris, France
Pristine
8 Rue de Maubeuge, 75009 Paris, France
Shops and markets
Coach
Opened in late August 2026, this immersive concept store blends the raw aesthetic of its 17th-century Parisian architecture with the neon-lit energy of 1970s Times Square.
- CoachOpened in late August 2026, this immersive concept store blends the raw aesthetic of its 17th-century Parisian architecture with the neon-lit energy of 1970s Times Square.
60 Av. des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris, France
Samaritaine
For September 2026, this iconic Art Nouveau and Art Deco landmark is hosting a specially recreated 'miniature Paris' experience.
- SamaritaineFor September 2026, this iconic Art Nouveau and Art Deco landmark is hosting a specially recreated 'miniature Paris' experience.
9 R. de la Monnaie, 75001 Paris, France
Researched by Varedelo
Planning notes for Paris
Must-try foods in Paris
- Salted BreadA breakout hit of 2026, this 'salted bread' is a Japanese-Korean inspired brioche that became a viral sensation as a pop-up before opening a permanent shop at 4 rue Réaumur in late August 2026. The buttery, addictive rolls are traditionally served with various 'sauces' like pandan, cream cheese, or chocolate.
- Pâté en CroûteWhile a classic, this dish is seeing a massive resurgence in 2026, highlighted at trendy spots like Lissit and by experts like Anne-Sophie Labruyère. It consists of a sophisticated meat terrine encased in a crisp, decorative pastry crust, often incorporating game meats or seasonal mushrooms for the autumn harvest.
- Farrouj Meshwi (Lebanese Grilled Chicken)Reflecting Paris's 2026 trend toward elevated Levantine street food, this dish features spatchcocked chicken grilled on custom rotisseries until the skin is ultra-crisp. It is currently a highlight at the newly opened 'Shwi' in the 10th, served in bowls or as sandwiches with garlic toum.
- Steak Frites with Secret SauceAn eternal icon. In September 2026, locals still flock to Le Relais de l'Entrecôte for the consistent quality of their seared entrecôte and thin-cut fries, famously drenched in a green herb-butter sauce that remains one of the city's best-kept culinary secrets.
- Duck Confit (Confit de Canard)A cornerstone of the 2026 bistro menu, especially as the weather cools in September. This duck leg is cured in salt and slow-cooked in its own fat until the meat is tender enough to fall off the bone, typically served with Sarladaise potatoes.
- Soupe à l'Oignon GratinéeThe ultimate French comfort food, ubiquitous in Paris's historic brasseries. As 'la rentrée' (the return from summer holidays) begins in September 2026, this rich beef broth soup topped with a thick layer of melted Gruyère and toasted baguette is the go-to for locals and visitors alike.
Trip guide
Visit Paris RegionVisit Paris RegionThe official tourism website for Paris and the Île-de-France region, providing travel guides, event information, and visitor services.
Where to eat in Paris: the dishes and their linked places.
When to visit Paris
- The best time to visit Paris is from late April to early June or September to October, when the weather is mild and the city’s parks are in full bloom or vibrant autumn color. Summer (July and August) marks the peak tourist season with hot temperatures and long lines, while the winter off-peak period (November to February) offers the lowest prices and fewest crowds despite the cold, grey skies. For the ideal balance of pleasant walking weather and manageable tourist traffic, aim for the "shoulder seasons" of spring and fall.
Getting around Paris
- International Air and Rail Travelers typically arrive via Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports, or by high-speed rail like Eurostar and Thalys at major stations such as Gare du Nord. From CDG, the RER B train provides a direct 45-minute link to central Paris.
- Paris Métro and RER The Métro is the most efficient way to navigate the city, featuring 16 lines that connect nearly every district. For longer distances to suburbs or attractions like Versailles and Disneyland, the RER regional express trains offer faster transit with fewer stops.
- Public Bus and Tramway Parisian buses offer a scenic alternative to the underground, with extensive routes covering the city center and suburbs. Trams primarily serve the city's perimeter, and both systems use the same ticketing as the Métro, such as the Navigo Easy card or Paris Visite pass.
Things to know before you go
- Always greet shopkeepers and servers with a polite "Bonjour" or "Bonsoir" before starting any interaction to avoid being perceived as rude.
- Request a "carafe d'eau" at restaurants to receive free tap water instead of paying for expensive bottled options.
- Signal for the check only when you are ready to leave, as Parisian servers will not bring it automatically to ensure you do not feel rushed.
- Keep your voice at a moderate volume in public spaces and on transport to respect the local preference for discretion and quiet.
What’s new in Paris (September 2026)
- The 'Rentrée Culturelle' season, featuring major new exhibitions including 'Andy Warhol: La ligne et l'image' at Musée du Luxembourg (opening 16 September) and 'Cézanne and Us' at the Grand Palais (opening 23 September).
- Paris Fashion Week Women’s Spring/Summer 2027, which begins its city-wide takeover on 28 September 2026.
- The European Heritage Days (Journées du Patrimoine) on 19-20 September, offering rare public access to restricted sites like the Élysée Palace under the 2026 theme 'Heritage in Danger'.
Research receipt
How this Paris guide was researched
- Live web search, 14 of 14 research areas completed.
- Places verified against real place data — address, hours and coordinates come from the place record, not the article.
- Researched September 2026. A newer build for Paris replaces this page automatically.
Sources checked
Planning questions
What is Paris known for?
Paris is the capital of France and is situated on the Seine River. The city was founded on the Île de la Cité, where the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris stands.
What should I eat in Paris?
Start with Salted Bread, Pâté en Croûte, Farrouj Meshwi (Lebanese Grilled Chicken), and Steak Frites with Secret Sauce. Each dish on this page lists the places known for it.
When is the best time to visit Paris?
The best time to visit Paris is from late April to early June or September to October, when the weather is mild and the city’s parks are in full bloom or vibrant autumn color. Summer (July and August) marks the peak tourist season with hot temperatures and long lines, while the winter off-peak period (November to February) offers the lowest prices and fewest crowds despite the cold, grey skies.
How do I get around Paris?
Travelers typically arrive via Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports, or by high-speed rail like Eurostar and Thalys at major stations such as Gare du Nord. International Air and Rail; Paris Métro and RER; Public Bus and Tramway.
How many places are on this Paris map?
37 places, each with an address, hours where known, and a line on why it was picked. The map in the app shows them by status so you can walk to the nearest one.
How was this Paris guide researched?
Live web research across 14 research areas, cross-checked against real place data, citing 24 sources. Researched September 2026.