Bask in the beauty of the Champs-Élysées, drive around the Arc de Triomphe and visit the pyramid of art in Le Louvre as the Eiffel Tower majestically dominates the skyline.
The French capital is home to a wealth of world-famous attractions – and that’s before you discover the treasures in its suburbs, and the wonders beyond.
Art, architecture and lip-smacking cuisine
The first stop on any trip to Paris has got to be the Eiffel Tower. The 19th-century structure has long been the symbol of the city, soaring more than 1,000 feet from the grassy Champ de Mars. Take the glass elevator to the top and enjoy the mesmerizing views of Paris spread out below.
Go from one icon to the other with a visit to the Musée du Louvre. This world-class art museum is famed for being the home of Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, but among the priceless exhibits you’ll also find pieces from Michelangelo and Rembrandt.
Finish off your day by feasting on classic French cuisine. Cozy bistros with the day’s specials on chalkboards, chandelier-decorated Michelin-starred restaurants and ruby-red vintage-style brasseries all compete for your attention in Paris. Pick your favorite and dine on traditional dishes, such as steak and frites, garlicky snails (escargots) and confit duck.
Explore Paris’ Latin Quarter
The cobbled streets of the Latin Quarter are quintessentially French – sprinkled with sophisticated cafes, independent art galleries and quaint antique stores. Park up and wander through this historic neighborhood in search of medieval Paris.
With spooky gargoyles peering over the edge of the cathedral arches, and flying buttresses splaying out wide, gothic Notre-Dame de Paris is the district’s most iconic landmark. Stand in front of the medieval cathedral as its ornate towers and spires loom over you. Head inside to see the pretty rose windows and climb the steps to the top of the bell towers for incredible views across Paris.
For a moment of peace from the bustling Parisian streets, venture into the Jardin des Luxembourg. This slice of paradise lies in the grounds of Napoleon’s old palace, with more than 60 acres of land to roam. Wander between chestnut trees and admire the views of Palais du Luxembourg.
Discover lavish beauty at Versailles
Be transported back to the 17th century when royal banquets, grand balls and noble gatherings took place behind closed doors at Château de Versailles. Arguably the most powerful palace in the world at the time, its grandeur is still mesmerizing to this day.
Drive out on a day trip and marvel at the jaw-dropping beauty of this elegant, embellished masterpiece. Notice the cut-out detailing of the façade, then head inside to see the opulent rooms and frescos decorating the ceilings, walls and staircases.
The must-see, though, is the Hall of Mirrors, a lavish ballroom bedecked with 357 mirrors. Take your eyes off the walls for a second and look skywards to admire the glistening chandeliers and flamboyant vaulted ceiling.
The manicured gardens share the same pomp as the palace, and are said to be the best in the world. Enormous and spectacular, they’re decorated with fountains and statues. Drink in the tranquility of the jaw-dropping grounds as you wander from the orangery to the groves.
Rent a car from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to see the best of the French capital and beyond.