Paris is the capital and largest city of France, located in the north-central part of the country. It has a population of over 2 million people and is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, art museums, fashion, and culinary scene.
Paris is often referred to as the "City of Light" and the "City of Love", making it a popular destination for tourists around the world.
This vibrant and beautiful city is home to numerous landmarks and attractions, and there are countless things to see and do. Some of the top attractions are:
Eiffel Tower: An iconic landmark of Paris and one of the most recognisable structures in the world. Visitors can take the lift to the top to enjoy the stunning views of the city.
Louvre Museum: This is one of the world's largest and most famous museums, housing thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Notre-Dame Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is one of the most famous landmarks in Paris, known for its Gothic architecture, rose windows, and flying buttresses.
Arc de Triomphe: This is a triumphal arch in the centre of Paris, built to commemorate the victories of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Champs-Élysées: A famous avenue in Paris lined with luxury shops, cafes, theatres, and is a popular destination for shopping and entertainment.
Sainte-Chapelle: This stunning medieval chapel is known for its exquisite stained glass windows, which create a dazzling display of colour and light.
Montmartre: A picturesque neighbourhood located on a hilltop, known for its bohemian atmosphere, artists, and stunning views of the city.
Musée d'Orsay: A former train station converted into a museum showcasing works of art from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century.
Palace of Versailles: Located just outside of Paris, this former royal residence is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture and features beautifully landscaped gardens.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica: A stunning Roman Catholic church located in Montmartre, known for its stunning white domes and intricate mosaics.
Seine River Cruise: Drift along the Seine River in a boat cruise and see Paris from a different perspective, while enjoying the views of the city's many landmarks.
Paris is also known for its delicious food and is home to some of the world's most famous culinary traditions. Make sure to try out their buttery croissants which is a staple French breakfast often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Then you have the French baguettes, French onion soup, and the classics such as coq au vin, ratatouille and steak frites.
It'll be tough to narrow the activities down to just 48 hours, however here are a couple of fantastic tour packages that allow you to explore the entire city as best as possible in just one day.
A package that involves climbing to the top of the Eiffel Tower, a cruise along the river Seine, and exploring the Louvre museum as well as the city overall
Why not try a bus tour of the entire city which also includes a ticket for the Arc de Triomphe?
Or even better, a tour of the city on a hop-on hop-off boat!
If you only have 48 hours in Paris, then here is a sample itinerary along with some fantastic tours that you can grab, to help give you a taster of this exciting city:
DAY 1
Morning:
Start your day with a visit to the Eiffel Tower. It opens at 9:30 a.m., so arrive early to beat the crowds, climb to the top and take in the stunning views of the city.
After the Eiffel Tower, head to a nearby café for a typical French breakfast of croissants, coffee, and orange juice.
Afternoon:
Head to the Louvre Museum and explore its vast collection of art, including the famous Mona Lisa painting.
This is a fantastic guided tour of the Louvre Museum:
Afterwards, take a stroll through the nearby Jardin des Tuileries.
Evening:
Enjoy a classic French dinner at a local restaurant, such as Escargot Montorgueil, then take a night cruise along the Seine River to see the city lights.
This tour includes the Eiffel tower as well as Seine cruise and Louvre Museum:
DAY 2
Morning:
Visit the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral where the fascinating gothic architecture will have you taking photos galore.
Once you've finished snapping away, walk over to the Latin Quarter and enjoy a coffee and croissant at one of the many cafes.
Afternoon:
Head to the Montmartre neighbourhood and climb up to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views of the city. Explore the charming streets and shops of Montmartre before heading to the Musée d'Orsay to see its collection of Impressionist art.
Evening:
End your day with dinner at Le Comptoir du Relais, a cozy bistro in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood, followed by a walk along the Seine River to take in the views of the city at night.
Admire the magic of Paris at night in a double-decker illumination bus tour:
Of course, this itinerary is just a suggestion, and there are many other ways to explore Paris depending on your interests and preferences. Remember to take breaks and enjoy the city's beautiful parks and cafes, and take time to savour the delicious food and wine that Paris has to offer.
If you are looking for specific suggestions, here are our recommendations:
Best things to do for couples in Paris
With its charming streets, world-class dining, and beautiful landmarks, there are endless opportunities for couples to make unforgettable memories in the City of Love.
1. Visit the Musée Rodin: Take a leisurely stroll, hand in hand with your partner in this museum dedicated to the works of the famous sculptor Auguste Rodin. It's set in a beautiful garden allowing you to admire the sculptures while enjoying the peaceful surrounding.
2. Have a romantic dinner: Paris is known for its world-class dining, and there are many romantic restaurants to choose from. Try
Le Jules Verne, located in the Eiffel Tower, or Le Cinq, a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Four Seasons Hotel George V.
3. Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare classic French dishes with your partner by taking a cooking class together. There are many options available, from baking croissants to making macarons.
4. Watch a show at the Moulin Rouge: This famous cabaret is known for its extravagant performances and is a fun and exciting way to spend an evening with your partner.
Best things for history buffs in Paris
Paris is a city steeped in history and culture, making it a paradise for history buffs. The Louvre museum and Notre Dame Cathedral mentioned above are a must see for those fascinated by history. Here are further sites to visit to satisfy your intellectual desires:
1. Walk along the Champs-Élysées: This famous avenue has been a centre of Parisian life since the 17th century. You can see the Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde, and the Eiffel Tower from here.
2. Visit the Palace of Versailles: Located just outside Paris, this stunning palace was home to the French kings for over 100 years. The palace has beautiful gardens, a Hall of Mirrors, and a collection of paintings and sculptures.
3. Explore the Catacombs of Paris: The underground tunnels beneath Paris contain the remains of over six million people. Take a tour to learn about the history and significance of this unusual attraction.
Best things for thrill seekers in Paris
Paris may be known for its art, culture, and history, but the city also offers plenty of opportunities for thrill seekers. Here are some of the best things to do in Paris for those who love adrenaline-fueled activities:
1. Take a ride on the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck: At 689 feet high, the Montparnasse Tower Observation Deck offers stunning views of Paris, and the experience of being that high above the ground can be a thrill in itself.
2. Go on a hot air balloon ride: The Ballon de Paris offers a unique way to see the city from above. The balloon is tethered to the ground, so you won't float away, but it still provides an exciting ride and a panoramic view of the city.
3. Try bungee jumping: The Bungee Club is located on the outskirts of Paris and offers bungee jumping experiences from a height of 50 meters. It's a great way to experience the thrill of free-falling while enjoying the scenic surroundings.