Paris—city of lights, love, and long, lingering meals. It’s a place where centuries-old architecture rubs shoulders with avant-garde art, and where a simple croissant can be a life-changing experience. But for travelers, not every Parisian path is golden. To truly enjoy the French capital, you’ll need to balance top-tier attractions with savvy decisions.
In this ultimate guide, we uncover the best things to do in Paris—and the top things you should avoid. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or the fifth, this guide will help you navigate Paris with confidence, charm, and a little savoir-faire.
✈️ Planning your trip? Don’t miss our full Europe Travel Guide for expert itineraries and travel insights.
✅ Top Things to Do in Paris
1. Watch the Sunrise from Montmartre
If you want Paris to feel like your own personal storybook, set your alarm early and head to Montmartre. With its winding alleys, hidden staircases, and the majestic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, this hilltop neighborhood offers unforgettable panoramic views.
2. Cruise the Seine at Sunset
A sunset river cruise on the Seine is one of the best ways to fall in love with Paris. Glide past Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower while the city glows in golden light.
📸 Don’t miss our guide to Instagrammable Spots in Paris.
3. Explore the Louvre Beyond the Mona Lisa
Sure, you’ll want to see the Mona Lisa, but the Louvre is full of lesser-known treasures. Head to the Greek Antiquities or Islamic Art wings for a quieter, more immersive experience. Pre-book online to skip the lines.
4. Picnic Like a Parisian
Grab a baguette, some creamy brie, and a bottle of Bordeaux from a local market and head to Jardin du Luxembourg or Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. These are top-tier picnic spots, perfect for soaking in local life.
🌿 See our full list of Best Picnic Spots in Paris.
5. Indulge in Café Culture
Cafés in Paris are not just coffee stops—they’re cultural institutions. Order a café crème and watch life unfold from a sidewalk table. For a historic vibe, try Café de Flore, or explore trendy cafés in Le Marais.
❌ Top Things to Avoid in Paris
1. Avoid Dining on the Champs-Élysées
The restaurants on this famous boulevard are often overpriced tourist traps. Instead, explore our list of authentic French bistros for places with heart, flavor, and fair prices.
2. Don’t Skip the Metro
Taxis are expensive and Paris traffic can be a nightmare. The Metro is safe, fast, and cheap. Use the RATP app or Citymapper to navigate like a local.
3. Avoid Buying Eiffel Tower Tickets On-Site
The Eiffel Tower draws crowds, and buying tickets on-site means long lines. Plan ahead and book via the official website. Or use our insider tips to skip the lines.
4. Be Wary of Museum Free Days
Yes, the first Sunday of the month offers free entry to museums like the Louvre and Orsay—but they’re packed. Arrive early or visit midweek to enjoy the art without the crowd.
5. Don’t Overbook Your Itinerary
One of the most Parisian things you can do is… nothing. Leave gaps in your schedule to enjoy a spontaneous café stop, bookstore, or river stroll.
🗺️ Start with our 3-Day Paris Itinerary for a balanced mix of must-sees and downtime.
🏆 Final Thoughts: Be a Traveler, Not a Tourist
Paris rewards those who slow down. Don’t just chase attractions—embrace the charm of its neighborhoods, its cafés, its quiet alleys. The best version of Paris isn’t always the one in guidebooks—it’s the one you discover yourself.
🧳 Need help choosing where to stay? Browse our Paris Hotel Guide for curated picks across all budgets.