Things to Do in Paris: 64 Spots From Ranking Every Paris

Planning notes for Paris

Paris is a major European city situated on the Seine River, with a history originating from the Celtic Parisii tribe around 250 BC. The Roman settlement of Lutetia was established on the Left Bank in 52 BC, and the city later became the capital of the Merovingian and Capetian dynasties. Historical Heritage and Architecture The city contains a chronological progression of architectural styles. * Medieval and Gothic: The Île de la Cité remains the historic center.

Must-try foods nearby

• Artichoke Soup with Black Truffle
  A signature masterpiece of Chef Guy Savoy, this legendary soup is served at his three-star Monnaie de Paris establishment.
• Jambon-Beurre (Le Petit Vendôme Style)
  The quintessential Parisian sandwich, elevated to an upscale cult favorite at Le Petit Vendôme.
• Sole Meunière
  A timeless classic of French haute cuisine, this whole Dover sole is lightly floured, pan-fried in clarified butter, and finished with a 'meunière' sauce of brown butter, lemon.
• Canard Confit (Bouillon Style)
  A cornerstone of the 'Bouillon' revival, this duck leg is cured in salt and slow-cooked in its own fat until the skin is shatter-crisp and the meat falls off the bone.
• Soufflé au Grand Marnier
  The ultimate Parisian dessert, celebrated for its airy texture and theatrical tableside presentation.

When to go: The best time to visit Paris is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to October).

Local tips

• Always initiate every interaction in shops, restaurants, or with service staff by saying 'Bonjour' to avoid being perceived as rude.
• Wait to be seated at restaurants and remember that you must specifically ask for the bill by saying 'L'addition, s'il vous plaît' when you are ready to leave.
• Use the Navigo Easy rechargeable card for the metro instead of paper tickets and always validate it at the turnstile to avoid heavy fines from inspectors.
• Maintain a low speaking volume in public spaces and on transportation to align with local social norms and avoid drawing unwanted attention.

What travelers are noticing

• The reopening of Villa Windsor in the Bois de Boulogne, the historic former home of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, accessible to the public for the first time in spring 2026.
• JR’s 'The Pont Neuf Cavern,' a monumental immersive art installation transforming Paris's oldest bridge into a limestone grotto (June 2026).
• The 'Claude Monet: 100 Years of Legacy' centenary celebrations, featuring blockbuster exhibitions at the Musée d’Orsay and Musée des Impressionnismes.

Extra place context

• Maison Ruggieri
  Chef Martino Ruggieri’s elegant fine-dining spot near the Palais Royal has quickly become a local favorite for its sophisticated and personal approach to French cuisine.
  food
• Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
  A true temple of French 'Art de Vivre,' this department store is world-famous for its stunning 1912 Neo-Byzantine stained-glass dome.
  shopping
• Place Vendôme
  The global epicenter of 'Haute Joaillerie' (High Jewelry), this octagonal square is where the world’s most famous jewelers—including Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Chaumet—have resided for centuries.
  shopping
• Fondation Louis Vuitton
  Housed in Frank Gehry's iconic 'glass sails' building in the Bois de Boulogne, this is Paris's premier destination for high-fashion art experiences.
  museums

Official tourism resource

The official website of the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau provides essential information for planning your stay, including activities and events.

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