Where to Visit in Paris for First Time – Must-See Landmarks

Paris, the City of Light, is a destination that has been enchanting travelers for centuries. With its stunning architecture, art museums, fashion, and romantic atmosphere, it’s no wonder why Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. As a first-time visitor, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to see, especially with so many iconic landmarks and hidden gems to explore. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the must-visit places in Paris, from the famous Champs-Élysées to the charming Montmartre neighborhood, and provide you with insider tips and recommendations to make your trip unforgettable.

Iconic Landmarks and Famous Attractions

Paris is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, and as a first-time visitor, you won’t want to miss these must-see attractions. Start your journey at the Eiffel Tower, the symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Take the stairs or elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city.

The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is a must-visit attraction in Paris, and it’s open 365 days a year. You can take the stairs or elevator to the top for stunning views of the city. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Next, head to the Arc de Triomphe, a monumental arch that honors the soldiers who fought and died for France. Take the stairs to the top for panoramic views of the city and the Eiffel Tower.

The Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is open daily from 9:30 AM to 10:30 PM, and admission is free. However, you’ll need to pay for the stairs and elevator to the top, which costs €12 (adults) and €6 (children 4-11 years old).

Another iconic landmark in Paris is the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a beautiful Gothic church that dates back to the 12th century. Although it’s currently under renovation after a devastating fire in 2019, you can still visit the nearby square and take in the stunning views of the Seine River.

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Notre-Dame Cathedral is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:45 PM, and admission is free. However, be sure to check the cathedral’s website for any updates on its current status and accessibility.

Neighborhoods and Quarters

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. As a first-time visitor, you’ll want to explore some of the most famous neighborhoods and quarters, such as Montmartre, Le Marais, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris, known for its bohemian vibe, street artists, and stunning views of the city. Start your day at the top of the hill at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and then explore the winding streets and alleys of the neighborhood. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Switzerlans – Unveiled)

Some of the must-see attractions in Montmartre include:

• The Sacré-Cœur Basilica
• The Place du Tertre, a charming square filled with street artists and cafes
• The Musée de Montmartre, a museum dedicated to the history of the neighborhood
• The Rue des Abbesses, a charming street lined with shops and cafes

Le Marais

Le Marais is a trendy neighborhood in the heart of Paris, known for its fashionable boutiques, art galleries, and hip restaurants. Start your day at the historic Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris, and then explore the nearby streets and alleys.

Some of the must-see attractions in Le Marais include:

• The Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris
• The Picasso Museum, a museum dedicated to the works of Pablo Picasso
• The Carnavalet Museum, a museum dedicated to the history of Paris
• The Rue des Rosiers, a charming street lined with shops and cafes

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the most famous neighborhoods in Paris, known for its upscale boutiques, art galleries, and historic cafes. Start your day at the iconic Café de Flore, and then explore the nearby streets and alleys.

Some of the must-see attractions in Saint-Germain-des-Prés include:

• The Café de Flore, a historic cafe that’s been a gathering place for intellectuals and artists for centuries
• The Galeries Lafayette, a famous department store with stunning views of the city
• The Rue de Rivoli, a charming street lined with shops and cafes
• The Musée d’Orsay, a museum dedicated to Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art

Museums and Galleries

Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous museums and galleries, including the Louvre, the Orsay, and the Rodin. As a first-time visitor, you’ll want to explore some of the most famous museums and galleries, as well as some of the lesser-known ones.

The Louvre

The Louvre is one of the world’s most famous museums, and it’s home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world. Some of the must-see attractions at the Louvre include:

• The Mona Lisa, one of the most famous paintings in the world
• The Venus de Milo, a famous sculpture from ancient Greece
• The Winged Victory of Samothrace, a stunning ancient Greek sculpture
• The Denon Wing, a beautiful courtyard filled with stunning architecture and art

Admission to the Louvre is €18 (adults) and €11 (children 18 and under). Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines. (See Also: Beat Time to Visit Key West – Perfect Island Getaway)

The Orsay

The Orsay is a museum dedicated to Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, and it’s home to an impressive collection of works by artists such as Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. Some of the must-see attractions at the Orsay include:

• The Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections, featuring works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh
• The sculpture garden, featuring works by artists such as Rodin and Maillol
• The temporary exhibitions, featuring works by artists from around the world

Admission to the Orsay is €12 (adults) and €6 (children 18 and under). Be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid long lines.

Food and Drink

Paris is famous for its cuisine, and as a first-time visitor, you’ll want to try some of the city’s most famous dishes and drinks. Start your day with a croissant and a café au lait at a charming café, and then try some of the city’s most famous dishes, such as escargots, ratatouille, and croissants.

Cafes and Bakeries

Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous cafes and bakeries, including the iconic Café de Flore and the charming bakery, Stohrer. Some of the must-try cafes and bakeries in Paris include:

• Café de Flore, a historic cafe that’s been a gathering place for intellectuals and artists for centuries
• Stohrer, a charming bakery that’s been serving up delicious pastries and bread for centuries
• Angelina, a famous tea salon that’s been serving up delicious tea and pastries for over 100 years
• Le Comptoir du Relais, a charming cafe that’s been serving up delicious coffee and pastries for over 100 years

Restaurants

Paris is home to some of the world’s most famous restaurants, including the iconic Le Grand Vefour and the charming Le Comptoir du Relais. Some of the must-try restaurants in Paris include:

• Le Grand Vefour, a historic restaurant that’s been serving up delicious French cuisine for over 200 years
• Le Comptoir du Relais, a charming restaurant that’s been serving up delicious French cuisine for over 100 years
• Septime, a Michelin-starred restaurant that’s been serving up delicious contemporary French cuisine for over 10 years
• Breizh Café, a popular restaurant that’s been serving up delicious crepes and other French delicacies for over 10 years

Recap

Paris is a city that has something for everyone, from its iconic landmarks and famous attractions to its charming neighborhoods and delicious cuisine. As a first-time visitor, you’ll want to explore some of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, and then venture into some of the city’s charming neighborhoods, such as Montmartre and Le Marais. Be sure to try some of the city’s most famous dishes and drinks, such as escargots and croissants, and don’t forget to visit some of the city’s most famous museums and galleries, such as the Louvre and the Orsay.

FAQs

What is the best way to get around Paris?

The best way to get around Paris is by using the city’s public transportation system, which includes the métro, buses, and tramways. You can also use taxis or ride-sharing services, or walk or bike if you prefer. (See Also: Best Time To Visit Buckingham Palace Staterooms – Uncrowded Days)

What is the best time to visit Paris?

The best time to visit Paris is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the city is also beautiful during the autumn and winter months, when the streets are decorated with lights and the Christmas markets are open.

What are some of the most famous landmarks in Paris?

Some of the most famous landmarks in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.

What are some of the most famous museums in Paris?

Some of the most famous museums in Paris include the Louvre Museum, the Orsay Museum, and the Rodin Museum.

What are some of the most famous neighborhoods in Paris?

Some of the most famous neighborhoods in Paris include Montmartre, Le Marais, and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

What are some of the most famous restaurants in Paris?

Some of the most famous restaurants in Paris include Le Grand Vefour, Le Comptoir du Relais, and Septime.