Paris is a wonderful, walkable city with a lot to see, but you might want to know the best tourist locations. Keep reading for a list of the 8 best Paris tourist attractions.
PS Seine River cruises start in Paris. If you’re here looking for river cruise information, it’s an incredible kickoff to an amazing cruise. Be sure to spend a few days pre- or post-cruise in Paris.
Without further ado, let’s get to the list!
1. Eiffel Tower
It is hard to take pictures when on the actual tower grounds; however, you can get a great shot of the tower across the street at the Trocadero Gardens and up the hill behind the gardens. There are also two restaurants in the Eiffel Tower. See this website for dining times: Restaurants, bars and stores at the Eiffel Tower (toureiffel.paris)
2. Alexander III Bridge
The Alexander III Bridge was given to France by the Russian Tsar Alexander. It is very ornate and offers great views of the Eiffel Tower from a distance. If you look across the Seine to the south side of the river, you will see Place de Invalides. Behind the buildings, you will see a golden dome. This is Napoleon’s burial place, which you can visit as well.
3. Louvre and Tuileries Gardens
The Louvre is at one end of the Tuileries Gardens, so you can enjoy both on the same day. After visiting the Louvre, walk through the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel (a mini arc) and head into the gardens. At the other end, you will find the Place de la Concorde with the Egyptian Obelisk.
4. Notre Dame Cathedral
The cathedral caught fire on April 15, 2019, and significant damage occurred. Reconstruction efforts began and much progress was made on the Grand Organ, stained-glass windows, and wrought iron railings, being hopeful that the cathedral could open for visitors by the 20204 Summer Olympics.
As of April 2025, Notre Dame is once again open for self-guided tours. Guided tours are scheduled to start in the summer of 2025. If you would like a self-guided tour, go to the cathedral’s website and secure your “free” ticket to avoid long lines.
5. Arc De Triomphe
If you would like to go to the top of the Arc De Triomphe, you can purchase tickets at the Arc. Please do not cross the roundabout street, but use the tunnel. The tunnel entrance is at the intersection of Avenue des Champs-Élysées and Rue Arsene Houssaye and is clearly marked.
6. Champs-Élysées
This famous street runs from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde. There are lots of sights to see, and many places to eat and shop.
7. Montmartre
Montmartre is the highest point in Paris. Visitors love the view from this artist enclave. Visit the Sacre-Coeur (Basilica of the Sacred Heart) with one of the world’s largest church bells, catch a show at Moulin Rouge, grab a bite at La Maison Rose, or any of the other numerous cafes.
You can also visit Musee de Montmartre, which houses paintings and writings that tell the Montmartre story; also, step out back to see Renoir’s Garden.
8. The Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is amazing and about an hour’s drive from Paris. It does take several hours to walk through the palace, and don’t miss the Hall of Mirrors…it is beautiful. The grounds are also stunning, so take time to enjoy the outside as well.
Best Paris Tourist Attractions Conclusion
If you stay in the “Golden Triangle” area, you will be close to the main attractions for first-time guests. Eagle Adventures is a full-service travel agency. We can help you book your Siene river cruise and Paris land extension.
Your Adventure Awaits!