From the Louvre and Monet’s Garden at Giverny to the Eiffel Tower and the Opera Garnier, Paris has it all. And while this UNESCO-listed city is known for its impressive museums and monuments, there’s a lot to see and do beyond the biggies!
Head up to the top of the iconic Eiffel Tower for views of Paris like no other. At night, it even lights up with a gorgeous twinkling display!
The Louvre
Located in the centre of Paris, the Louvre is home to some of the world’s greatest works of art. Originally built as a fortress, it later became a residence for the French royal family and then a museum.
Throughout its history the Louvre has faced challenges regarding what it should display. Traditional pillars of Western art (Egypt, Greece, Rome and Renaissance Italy) were long part of the collection but other cultures were excluded or deemed less important.
During the 18th century Napoleon Bonaparte had the Louvre renamed Musee Napoleon and expanded the collection to include paintings from his military campaigns, private donations and commissions. Though he looted many pieces from foreign nations, most were returned after he was defeated in Waterloo. The museum also has a vast collection of Egyptian antiquities. Today the museum is a wildly popular tourist attraction. It can be crowded and visitors often fan out in the adjacent underground mall to eat, shop or recharge their phones.
The Musee D’Orsay
The Musee D’Orsay is a must-visit on any Paris itinerary. Located in the former Gare d’Orsay train station, it holds one of the world’s finest collections of Impressionist art.
The museum is split into 3 main levels and a few smaller display rooms. The paintings on the fifth floor are a definite highlight, but don’t miss out on exploring all of the other parts!
Aside from the famous impressionist works, you can also check out some of the most important photography in the world. These historic photos are often unavailable for permanent exhibitions, so you’ll want to make sure you get there when they do open up.
The museum is a popular destination with tourists and can be busy, so make sure to arrive early or book your tickets online in advance. It’s worth it to avoid the long queues.
The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of Paris’ most famous landmarks and a must-see when visiting the city. Originally built for the World Fair Exhibition to celebrate the centenary of the French Revolution in 1889, it has become the iconic symbol of Paris.
It’s a 19th-century engineering marvel that was designed by Gustave Eiffel, a bridge engineer. It was inspired by the Latting Observatory in New York City, but with greater attention to aesthetics.
This 300-metre (or 984-foot) wrought iron tower was a revolutionary design in its time. Though it was initially criticized on aesthetic grounds, it was praised for its technological prowess.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the tower is the highest paid monument in the world and has welcomed 250 million visitors since it opened in 1889. With restaurants, exhibits and shops, there’s something for everyone here.
The Moulin Rouge
The iconic Moulin Rouge is a historic show that attracts people from around the world. It is located in the Pigalle area of the Montmartre district, and is known for its lively night entertainment.
The building is a symbol of Paris and the Belle Epoque, a time of optimism and progress. Its electrically powered facade was designed by Adolphe Leon Willette, and its flamboyant decor was meant to draw attention to the building and get people talking about it.
While the Moulin Rouge has lost its reputation for being a brothel, it remains popular for its unique cabaret shows and the Can-Can dance. The Can-Can is a style of dance that involves high-kicks, cartwheels and splits.
The Moulin Rouge is one of the most famous attractions in Paris and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. It is a great place to see amazing shows and enjoy a meal with friends! There are several tickets and pass options to choose from.
