Paris, often referred to as the “City of Lights,” is a place that has captured the imaginations and hearts of travelers for centuries. I had high expectations for this iconic city, and it did not disappoint.
I’ll share my experience of the most captivating sights in Paris with you, including my personal experiences, tips on how to get there, ticket prices, and my recommendations.
1. The Eiffel Tower: An Iconic Symbol
Location: The Eiffel Tower is located at Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France, 75007 Paris, France.
How to Get There: The Eiffel Tower is accessible via several metro lines. I took the Line 6 to Bir-Hakeim station, which is just a short walk from the tower. You can also reach it by taking the RER C to Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: There are several ticket options depending on how high you want to go. I opted for the summit ticket, which costs around €25.90 for adults. If you’re under 25 and a resident of the EU, you can get a reduced rate. There are also discounted tickets for children, students, and people with disabilities. Tickets can be purchased online at the official Eiffel Tower website to avoid long queues.
Standing at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, I was awestruck by its sheer size and the intricate lattice ironwork. The anticipation built as I ascended in the glass-walled elevator, watching the city of Paris unfold beneath me. The view from the summit is simply breathtaking. You can see all of Paris’ major landmarks from here, from the Arc de Triomphe to Sacré-Cœur. The experience of watching the sunset over the city, followed by the sparkling lights of the Eiffel Tower itself, is something I will never forget.
Recommendation:
Highly recommended for first-time visitors. The best times to visit are early morning or late evening to avoid the crowds. Booking tickets online in advance is a must.
2. The Louvre Museum: A Treasure Trove of Art
Location: The Louvre Museum is located at Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.
How to Get There: The Louvre is easily accessible by metro. I took Line 1 to Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre station, which leads directly to the museum.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Standard tickets for the Louvre cost €17 if purchased online and €15 if bought at the museum. Entry is free for visitors under 18, and for EU residents under 26. The first Saturday of each month offers free admission from 6 pm to 9:45 pm.
The Louvre is massive, so I planned my visit by prioritizing the key pieces I wanted to see: the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. The museum is a labyrinth of art and history, with every room offering something unique and fascinating. The Mona Lisa, though smaller than I expected, captivated me with her enigmatic smile. The grandeur of the Louvre itself, with its glass pyramid entrance and sprawling galleries, is an experience that art lovers and history buffs alike will cherish.
Recommendation:
Plan to spend at least half a day here. Use the museum map to navigate efficiently and avoid getting lost. Online ticket purchase is highly recommended to skip the lines.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral: Gothic Grandeur
Location: Notre-Dame Cathedral is located at 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France.
How to Get There: Notre-Dame is located on Île de la Cité in the heart of Paris. I took the metro Line 4 to Cité station, which is just a short walk from the cathedral.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Entry to the cathedral itself is free, but if you want to climb the towers for a panoramic view of Paris, tickets cost around €10. Reduced rates are available for students, young people, and groups. Due to the 2019 fire, the interior access and tower visits may be limited, so check the official website for current information.
Despite the damage from the 2019 fire, Notre-Dame remains a symbol of Gothic architecture and religious significance. The facade, with its intricate sculptures and stained-glass windows, is awe-inspiring. Climbing the towers gave me a closer look at the iconic gargoyles and a stunning view over the Seine and Paris.
Recommendation:
While the fire has impacted access, the exterior and surrounding area are still worth a visit. The views from the tower are worth the climb. Check the current status of interior tours before planning your visit.
4. Montmartre and the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur: A Bohemian Haven
Location: The Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur is located at 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France.
How to Get There: I took the metro Line 2 to Anvers station and then followed the signs up the hill to the basilica. There’s also a funicular that takes you up if you prefer not to walk.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Entry to the Sacré-Cœur is free. If you want to climb the dome for an incredible panoramic view of Paris, tickets cost about €6.
Montmartre, with its narrow, winding streets and artistic heritage, is like stepping into a different era. Street artists, quaint cafes, and the stunning white dome of the Sacré-Cœur create an enchanting atmosphere. The view from the dome is one of the best in Paris, providing a sweeping vista of the city below. I spent hours wandering the streets, visiting the Espace Dalí, and enjoying the local cuisine at the charming cafes.
Recommendation:
A must-visit for its unique charm and atmosphere. Take your time to explore the streets and enjoy the local art scene. The climb to the dome is steep but offers the best views of the city.
5. The Palace of Versailles: Opulence and Grandeur
Location: The Palace of Versailles is located at Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France.
How to Get There: Versailles is a short train ride from Paris. I took the RER C train to Versailles Château – Rive Gauche station. From there, it’s a 10-minute walk to the palace.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Standard admission to the palace costs €18. There are various ticket options depending on what you want to see, including the gardens and Trianon Palaces. Free admission is available for EU residents under 26, children under 18, and disabled visitors plus one companion. The official Versailles website offers tickets and detailed information.
The Palace of Versailles is a testament to opulence. The Hall of Mirrors, with its sparkling chandeliers and gilded decor, is breathtaking. The gardens, with their meticulously manicured lawns and ornate fountains, are a joy to explore. The Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette’s Estate offer a glimpse into the personal lives of the French royalty. The sheer scale and grandeur of Versailles are overwhelming and truly transport you back to the time of Louis XIV.
Recommendation:
Plan to spend a full day here to truly appreciate the palace and gardens. Book tickets online to avoid long queues. Don’t miss the musical fountain shows in the gardens if they are available during your visit.
6. Musée d’Orsay: An Artistic Masterpiece
Location: The Musée d’Orsay is located at 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France.
How to Get There: The Musée d’Orsay is easily accessible by metro. I took Line 12 to Solférino station, which is a short walk to the museum. Alternatively, the RER C train stops at Musée d’Orsay station.
Ticket Prices and Discounts: Standard tickets cost €14. Reduced rates are available for visitors aged 18-25 who are not EU residents, while entry is free for EU residents aged 18-25 and children under 18. On the first Sunday of each month, admission is free for all visitors. Tickets can be purchased online through the museum’s official website.
Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is a beautiful blend of architecture and art. The museum is renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces. Seeing works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas up close was a highlight of my visit. The museum’s grand clock, which offers a unique view of Paris, adds to its charm. The layout is visitor-friendly, and the natural light streaming through the glass roof enhances the viewing experience.
Recommendation:
Art enthusiasts will find this museum a treasure trove. Allocate a few hours to fully explore the exhibits. Booking tickets online will save time, especially on weekends and holidays.
My journey through Paris was nothing short of magical. Each landmark told a story of its own, blending history, art, and culture in ways that only Paris can. From the towering heights of the Eiffel Tower to the artistic treasures of the Louvre and the serene beauty of Montmartre, every moment was a new discovery.
Paris has a unique way of making you feel like you are walking through a living museum, where every corner has a piece of history waiting to be discovered. The city’s blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy makes it a destination that caters to every type of traveler. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone looking to soak in the city’s atmosphere, Paris has something for everyone.
I am reminded of the words of Audrey Hepburn: “Paris is always a good idea.” My journey through the City of Lights has left me with memories that will last a lifetime, and I can’t wait to return to explore even more of what this incredible city has to offer.
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, take your time to savor each experience. Book your tickets in advance, explore the local neighborhoods, and enjoy yourself.