Great 8: Paris Sights 💕

“Paris is always a good idea”

Audrey Hepburn in Sabrina.

It’s a city filled to the brim with love, art, architecture and amazing food.  If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit the City of Lights, you know that there is an endless amount of things to see and do here. If you’re looking for the best spots to see in Paris, here are 8 places you won’t want to miss, and accompanying map!

1. Eiffel Tower

Of course, the most iconic spot in Paris has to be the Eiffel Tower.  On it, under it, or viewing it from further afield, how can you not be put under its spell?!

Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World’s Fair, the tower was initially met with skepticism but has since become one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Rising to a height of 324 meters (1,063 feet), it offers breathtaking views over Paris from the summit, which you can access via stairs or elevators from 25€.

There’s also an open-air Champagne bar at the top of the tower, so you can salute to the stunning views.

My favourite place to enjoy its presence, is at the park to the north-east of the tower.  I loved relaxing there, having a small pâtisserie picnic, reading and people watching… it’s a vibe 💕

2. The Louvre & Tuileries

Originally constructed as a fortress in the 12th century, the building evolved over the centuries, and became a residence of French kings. In 1793, following the French Revolution, it was transformed into a public museum, showcasing a vast collection of artworks spanning from antiquity to the 19th century.

Today, the Louvre is the largest art museum in the world, housing over 35,000 works of art, including iconic masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. Entry starts from 17€, or you can get skip-the-line guided tours which I recommend for the mammoth building.

The ceilings in the Louvre are amazing in their own right too – so incredibly ornate! One example is the Galerie d’Apollon or Apollo Gallery. Located in the Richelieu Wing of the museum, it boasts a spectacular ceiling adorned with breathtaking frescoes depicting the mythological exploits of the sun god Apollo. Painted by artist Charles Le Brun in the 17th century, the ceiling is a masterpiece of Baroque artistry.

If and when you get tired of looking at paintings and sculptures, you can always enjoy a stroll through the Tuileries Garden. Connecting the Louvre to Place de la Concorde, the gardens feel like Paris’ answer to New York’s Central Park. Immaculately looked after, they’re a nice place to relax, and watch the world go by.

3. Sacré-Cœur Basilica & Montmatre

Visiting this arrondissement, all you need is your camera and a comfy pair of shoes to tread its cobblestones and heights! Known as the “painters quarter”, the Montmartre district has inspired the likes of Monet, Picasso, Renoir and Van Gogh.

Climbing Sacré-Cœur’s 300ish steps to its dome was exhausting but definitely rewarding! For approximately 6€, I thoroughly loved the dome climb, the basilica’s architecture, candles, stairs, mosaics, and gargoyles hanging out on ledges!

4. Arc de Triomphe

Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to commemorate his victories, the arch’s imposing neoclassical design pays homage to ancient Roman triumphal arches, evoking a sense of power and glory. Rising majestically at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe serves as a poignant reminder of France’s rich history and resilience, bearing witness to centuries of triumphs and tribulations.

If you’re feeling up for it, you can even climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for some great views of the city. Because of the heavy, and treacherous! traffic going around the roundabout, of which the Arc is the centre of, it’s recommended to use one of the underpasses. One of the entrances is located at the Champs Élysées, and the other is at Avenue de la Grande Armée.

5. Saint-Germain

Visiting the Saint-Germain arrondissement in Paris promises an enriching experience steeped in history, culture, and sophistication. Wander through its cobblestone streets lined with elegant boutiques, absorbing the ambiance of this vibrant neighbourhood.

It’s great to pop into stores and browse, eat at the infamous (read: popular!) Café de Flore, say hello to God at the historic Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and then laze about smelling the flowers at Jardin de Luxembourg. I feel like I’m my most Parisian fantasy self here, or Emily in Paris wannabe!

I think I visited this suburb every morning while I stayed there last, and still have more to see next time including: Diptyque, Deyrolle (taxidermy boutique!), Shakespeare & Co, and Grom Gelato.

6. Notre-Dame Cathedral

Part way across the Seine River from the above neighbourhood Saint Germain, is the Notre-Dame Cathedral on the Île de la Cité. Taking over 300 years to construct!, the Notre-Dame is known for its gothic architectural features; gargoyles, flying buttresses, towers and spire.

Notre-Dame has suffered damage and deterioration through the centuries. Including most recently in 2019, while undergoing some restoration. A fire broke out in the cathedral’s attic, and the massive blaze destroyed most of the roof, vaulting and the spire. It is on par for reopening in 2024. You can still marvel at its features from the outside, and on a river cruise.

7. Seine River

Speaking of the water, the Seine River serves as the lifeblood of Paris, meandering gracefully through its heart, and providing an essential backdrop to its iconic landmarks.

Lined with picturesque bridges, charming quays, and elegant boulevards, the Seine epitomises the romantic allure of the French capital. A leisurely stroll along its banks offers panoramic views of landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre.

Beyond its scenic beauty, the Seine River also serves as a bustling thoroughfare for river cruises, allowing visitors to explore Paris from a unique perspective. Whether by day or night, these cruises offer a captivating journey past historic monuments and under ornate bridges, accompanied by informative commentary that unveils the rich tapestry of Parisian history.

8. Colonnes de Buren

These distinctive columns, known as the Buren Columns or Colonnes de Buren, are located in the inner courtyard of the Palais Royal, a historic palace near the Louvre Museum. Created by French artist Daniel Buren in the 1980s, the installation comprises 260 cylindrical columns, each adorned with black and white stripes of varying widths. They’d been on my ‘must-see’ list for ages, and I’m thrilled to have finally seen them!

Stepping into the courtyard, you’re immediately enveloped in a mesmerising interplay of light, shadow, and geometry, as the stark contrast between the columns creates an optical illusion. The repetition of the stripes, combined with the columns’ precise alignment, produces a dynamic visual effect that transforms the space into a captivating work of art.

A few bonus spots:

• Rue Crémieux – Strolling down this narrow cobblestone street, you’re immediately enveloped in a kaleidoscope of pastel-hued townhouses adorned with vibrant flower boxes and wrought-iron balconies. Each building seems to tell its own story, exuding a timeless elegance that transports you to another era.
• Sainte-Chapelle – A stunning Gothic chapel renowned for its intricate stained glass windows, depicting biblical scenes and offering a breathtaking kaleidoscope of colour when sunlight filters through.
• Canal Saint-Martin – A picturesque waterway lined with tree-shaded promenades, trendy boutiques, and cozy cafes, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a scenic boat ride.
• Les Invalides – A complex of buildings housing museums and monuments relating to French military history, including the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte.
• Disneyland Paris – Technically outside of Paris, you’re greeted upon entry by the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, which stands as a beacon of enchantment. The attention to detail is remarkable, with beautifully themed areas and immersive experiences around every corner. At night, the park truly dazzles with spectacular fireworks and dazzling light shows, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime!