15 of the Top Things To Do in Paris Per Viator Travelers

What?: The Louvre isn’t just one of the top attractions in Paris—it’s also one of the largest and most-visited museums in the world. Booking a private collection highlights tour is a great move to help navigate through its seemingly endless galleries, and learn the stories behind the masterworks.

When?: The Louvre is open daily except Tuesdays, with evening opening hours on Wednesdays and Fridays. Arrive early or late for the best chance of beating the crowds.

What one reviewer said: “The Louvre tour was an unforgettable experience! Ilan our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, bringing the museum’s masterpieces to life with fascinating stories and historical insights. Seeing the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory up close was breathtaking.” bigbizkit07, March 2025

What?: There are few better ways to see Paris than by boat. After all, the River Seine flows right through the heart of the city, past many of its best-known monuments—so much so that its riverbanks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Combine your river trip with dinner for a gourmet meal with a side of sightseeing.

When?: Seine cruises are offered all throughout the day, so just choose what works best with your trip. If dinner isn’t the best option, lunch cruises are available, too.

What one reviewer said: “The food and service was excellent. A great way to start our trip to Paris. We both really enjoyed ourselves and would definitely do this again.” Iain_W, February 2025

What?: Immortalized in paintings, in film, and onstage, the Moulin Rouge is a true French icon—and a must on any Paris itinerary. While its cabaret shows are too risqué for younger audiences, adults who want to discover the art of the can-can should be sure to grab their tickets early.

When?: Though showtimes vary, the Moulin Rouge typically offers dinnertime performances earlier in the evening as well as late-night shows.

What one reviewer said: “A show everyone must see [in] their lifetime. Amazing dinner with a band. Show and staff were extremely professional and made the experience.” John_Z, January 2025

What?: Marie Antoinette’s former stomping grounds, the Palace of Versailles is one of France’s largest and most opulent palaces. Located just a short distance southwest of central Paris, the palace—including its Hall of Mirrors and the sprawling Versailles Gardens—is a perfect day-trip destination, especially if you book a tour that handles transportation logistics.

When?: The Palace of Versailles is open every day except Mondays. Expect weekends and Tuesdays to be busier, while Wednesdays and Thursdays are generally less crowded.

What one reviewer said: “This tour made it so much easier to get to the palace without having to figure out the train myself. Plus, we didn’t have to find a guide through the palace when we got there. Our guide Melanie was very friendly and knowledgeable about the palace and gave us a really interesting tour!” BarbaraJ_H, March 2025

What?: Second only to the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay is one of the must-see places in Paris for culture lovers, especially impressionism fans. Housed within a historic Beaux-Arts train station, the museum is known for its collection of works by Van Gogh, Monet, and other masters. Book a tour with skip-the-line tickets for seamless sightseeing.

When?: The museum is open daily except on Mondays and has late opening hours on Thursdays.

What one reviewer said: “A good experience for [our] first time at the museum. Our tour guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. She was able to navigate us to the most important pieces and give us some great history.” Douglas_W, February 2025

What?: Paris has more than its fair share of atmospheric neighborhoods, but even with that stiff competition, the hilltop Montmartre stands out. Montmartre is an essential destination for Paris visitors, famous for its bohemian history, for monuments including the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, and for its star turn in the movie Amélie. Slopes aside, it’s great to explore on a walking tour.

When?: Time your visit with sunset to take in spectacular views overlooking the whole of Paris.

What one reviewer said: “I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone who is interested in the history of Montmartre. Beautiful walk through parts of the city that are not crowded and lovely.” Diane_P, November 2024

What?: A postcard-worthy destination in Normandy, Giverny has charm in spades. Best known as the former residence of impressionist artist Claude Monet, this petit village is today home to the Fondation Claude Monet, where visitors can explore his house and gardens.

When?: There’s no time like spring in Giverny—Monet’s gardens will be particularly resplendent. Just avoid November through March, when the Fondation is closed.

What one reviewer said: “The gardens are just unbelievable—really, just so beautiful. We went in the autumn and can’t wait to go back in the spring, too. The house is also lovely. Monet is my favorite artist, so this was a dream trip for me, and this was a wonderful way to do it.” Danielle_D, November 2024

What?: The Eiffel Tower is the Paris landmark that needs no introduction—its iconic spire is an unmissable feature of the city’s skyline. For even better views, book advance tickets to its second-floor or summit observation decks to see the City of Light unfurl beneath your feet.

When?: The Eiffel Tower is open daily from mid-morning to late evening, though check its hours as they can change for holidays and special events. Sunset is one of the best times to visit.

What one reviewer said: “Loved the view from above especially at night with the skyline all lit up. Thrilling ride to the top and the glass floor was a nice extra!” Ernestina_B, March 2025

What?: As a famously gourmet city, Paris is a dream destination for foodies. And while going on a tasting tour of the city’s best markets and bakeries is an essential experience, you’ll walk away with insider knowledge—and new skills—after a croissant-making class.

When?: Most baking classes are offered during the day and will ensure you’ve got warm pastries in hand for an afternoon snack.

What one reviewer said: “This is a fantastic class and very engaging. We got to create all steps of making croissants and learn the different techniques so we can do it again at home. The croissants were so good, and we each got to bring some home with us. Highly recommend.” Abby_B, March 2025

What?: One of the best things to do in Paris is technically right outside city limits: Disneyland® Paris. The most-visited amusement park in all of Europe is actually two parks in one—it comprises Disneyland® Park and Walt Disney Studios® Park—and it’s an essential stop for families and the young at heart. You'll want to secure your tickets early for ease.

When?: Open daily, though hours vary depending on the season. Avoid the summer and European school holidays to bypass peak crowds.

What one reviewer said: “Who doesn’t love Disney®? It was a magical day as visiting Disney® usually is. We had breakfast with the characters so it was extra special.” angela_p, March 2025

What?: No Paris sightseeing stint is complete without the Île de la Cité: an island located in the middle of the Seine and the oldest part of the French capital. It’s also home to several megawatt sights, including Sainte-Chapelle, the Conciergerie, and the newly reopened Notre-Dame Cathedral, all of which you can visit on a walking tour.

When?: Sainte-Chapelle, the Conciergerie, and Notre-Dame are all open daily. Weekdays are a good bet for fewer crowds.

What one reviewer said: “It was a wonderful overview of Ile de Paris and Notre Dame. Our tour guide, Becky, was knowledgeable, funny and an absolute delight to spend the morning with during our tour. It was a moderate amount of walking, though by no means excessive. It was well worth it.” Shawn, August 2025

What?: Paris’ sheer abundance of major attractions and monuments can be overwhelming. The solution for time-pressed travelers? A hop-on hop-off bus tour, which effortlessly charts a route past many of the city’s top sights. Grab a seat on the upper deck for unimpeded views.

When?: Most hop-on hop-off bus tours run daily. Choose between 24-hour or 48-hour passes, depending on your itinerary, so you can travel around town as much as you’d like.

What one reviewer said: “The hop-on hop-off bus is a wonderful way to get an overview of Paris and to get around between sites. The route passes in front of most of the sites, so even if you don’t get off the bus, you get to see them all in passing.” Scott_S, March 2025

What?: The City of Light has been renowned as a gastronomic destination for centuries, and it still offers foodies an enticing array of delicacies to discover. On a neighborhood walking and tasting tour, you’ll visit artisan bakeries and markets where you can sample everything from perfectly crusty baguettes to French cheeses and other goodies.

When?: Most food tours coincide with lunch, so you’d be wise to come hungry—enough tastings are offered to add up to a generous meal.

What one reviewer said: “We strolled through cobblestone streets [...] stopping at a boulangerie for crusty baguette and pastries, a crêperie, pâtisserie famous for its macarons and chocolate. Our final stop was a private space to sample local cheese, meats, and wine. An afternoon well spent!” Amy_S, March 2025

What?: It may be tempting to stay put in the heart of Paris during your getaway—but with so many popular day-trip destinations nearby, it’s worth exploring beyond city limits. One of the top options is Normandy: History buffs can visit the region’s D-Day landing beaches and pay tribute to the fallen at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. Book a day trip for easy logistics that will have you back in Paris for dinner.

When?: Most tours depart early in the day and return in the evening, so prepare for a full day of traveling and exploring.

What one reviewer said: “Very moving experience. Our guide Daniel was incredibly knowledgeable and did a wonderful job of providing historical background balanced with ample reflection time.” John_L, March 2025

What?: No Paris travel guide is complete without a day trip to one of France’s top wine regions: Champagne. A quick trip from the city by tour or public transit, upon arrival you can explore the Reims Cathedral of Notre Dame (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims) and other historic highlights—then get to sipping at one of the region’s esteemed Champagne houses.

When?: There’s rarely a bad time to visit Champagne, although the autumn harvest season is a particularly interesting time to explore.

What one reviewer said: “Enjoyed every moment! The Champagne region was breathtaking and truly appreciated learning more about the art of champagne making! Our driver/guide Nico also added to the charm! Quite a memorable experience!” Jackie_M, November 2024