Of course you have to see the main tourist attractions in Paris — can you really say you’ve been here if you haven’t seen the Eiffel Tower, the Mona Lisa, and the Champs-Elysées? — but the City of Light offers so much beyond its many famous monuments. We locals love the unexpected gems hiding all over town, from the little-known museums and historic cathedrals to the picturesque parks and secret city squares. We’re sharing the must-see places in Paris according to locals, letting you in on the spots only Parisians know and telling you which top tourist destinations are actually worth visiting.
A cultural capital of the world, the City of Paris has over 120 museums and some 2000 monuments, several internationally-renowned like the Louvre and Sacré Coeur, but many more under the radar like the Musée Jacquemart-André and the Château de Vincennes. Indeed, the French capital is so full of history, art, and architecture that it can be difficult to decide which places to visit. That’s why we’re sharing our Paris sightseeing highlights, including everything from the most famous monuments to the best small museums in Paris.
It doesn’t get much better than spending a sunny afternoon in one of Paris’s stunning parks and gardens, although seeing them covered in snow is pretty great too. Spread across all of the arrondissements, these green spaces make the perfect place to get a break from the sounds and stress of city life. Whether you’re eager to visit one of Paris’s most popular gardens or are aiming to discover a hidden gem, here’s where to head.
Paris may be known for its amazing, best-in-the-world art museums (the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Centre Pompidou, Musée Picasso, and the list goes on…) but the City of Light is also home to many exceptional galleries and exhibition spaces. To discover up-and-coming artists, contemplate contemporary artworks, and immerse yourself in intriguing international art shows, these are the best places to visit.
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With so many museums, monuments, parks, and gardens to see, it’s easy to forget all the surprises the Paris streets have in store. Nearly every corner offers something worth stopping and admiring: street art, centuries-old bridges, charming covered passages, quiet city squares, and perfect photo opportunities. Here are our favorite places to visit in Paris when wandering les rues.