The 17 best things to do in Paris

17. Take a stroll down the Champs-Elysees

Paris is famous for its fashion so why not walk down Paris' most famous street. Designers like Chanel, Gucci, and Prada can be found here and even if you can't afford the clothing it's always fun to window shop!

16. Visit Jardin du Luxembourg

This picturesque garden is a perfect leisurely activity on a nice sunny day.

15.Stop by Shakespeare and Co.

For all the bookworms this is a must. Go see where Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Sylvia Beach met in the 1920's. This store is filled with classics, poetry, science and history books, and modern literature, everyone can find something they like here.

 

14. Palais Garnier

The Palais Garnier is Paris' opera house. This building, which was built by Napoleon, exudes grandeur and excellence. With the lush interior that is fit for a king, Palais Garnier is Paris at its finest.

13. The Louvre

One of the most famous museums in the world. Go check out the Mona Lisa and the glass pyramid. Beware that you can spend an entire day in the Louvre and not see everything so give yourself plenty of time and know what you want to see.

12. Have a picnic

Grab a blanket, baguette, some cheese, and wine and find yourself a spot on the grass in from of the Eiffel Tower or one of Paris' beautiful gardens.

11. Visit the Galeries Lafayette

This massive department store offers anything you can think of. If the Champs-Elysees is too much for you but still want to get that perfect outfit from Paris, check out the Galeries Lafayette. And even if you aren't looking for anything this department store is a wonder to the eye!

10. Arc De Triomphe

At the top of the Champs-Elysees lays the Arc De Triomphe. Climb to the top of this monument dedicated to fallen French heroes to get a spectacular 360 degree view of the city.

9. Pere Lachaise Cemetery

This is not only a cemetery but a town for the dead. The 120 acres is connected with streets and paths. The family tombs and grave sites are so beautiful it's no wonder why people such as Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, and Chopin chose Pere Lechaise as their final resting place.

8. Visit the famous Moulin Rouge

Book a ticket for the famous cabaret show that has been wowing since 1889. Even if cabaret is not for you, I still recommend going and snapping a few pictures of the red windmill.

7. Take a stroll along the Seine

This river runs through some of Paris' most beautiful and oldest arrondissements. Enjoy the romantic allure that Paris has to offer with the charming architecture and pick up an old book or painting from one of the many bouquinistes lining the Seine.

6. Head down to the Latin quarter

The Latin quarter is a great place to grab a bite to eat and the souvenirs you promised to get everyone back home. This is a great place to grab a crepe that Paris is famous for.

5. Notre Dame

Seeing this famous cathedral is a must when visiting Paris. If you want to go inside and climb to the top make sure you get there early as lines form fast. Another alternative is to see Notre Dame at night. Not only is the cathedral a sight to see at night there is usually no line to get in at night.

4. Find a sidewalk café

Truly feel like a Parisian and sit outside a corner café and order a coffee and people watch or read a book.

3. The Palace of Versailles

It's a short train ride from Paris but completely worth it. See where Marie Antoinette lived in this magnificent, extravagant, luxurious palace. After taking a tour of the inside and see the Hall of Mirrors, don't miss the vast gardens that French kings and queens once walked.

2. Montmartre

Climb to the top Montmartre hill and see Sacre Coeur church. Around this area you will find many artists and a breathtaking view overlooking Paris. Go off the beaten path and wander to find the many stairs and charming apartments of this Parisian neighborhood that once was home to many artists and writers in the 1920's.

1. Le Tour Eiffel

A trip to Paris wouldn't be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower. Whether you take the elevator to the top for a spectacular view of Paris or you admire its grandeur from the ground make sure you make it here. For and extra treat make it back after nightfall to see the tower light up and dazzle every top of the hour.