Top 10 Things to Do for a Perfect Weekend in Paris

Paris, often called the City of Light, is one of the most enchanting places in the world. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, a weekend in Paris promises history, art, romance, and unforgettable experiences. To help you make the most of your trip, here’s a carefully curated list of the top 10 things to do for an amazing weekend in Paris.

1. Experience the Eiffel Tower Up Close 

No trip to Paris is complete without admiring the Eiffel Tower. There are several ways to enjoy this iconic landmark:

• Ride the elevator to the top for stunning city views.
• Climb the stairs to the second floor for a more immersive experience with fewer crowds.
• Have a picnic at Champ de Mars and take in the tower’s beauty from below.
• Visit after sunset to see it sparkle every hour on the hour.

Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to skip long lines.

2. Discover Masterpieces at the Louvre 

As the world’s largest and most-visited museum, the Louvre is home to over 35,000 works of art, including:

• Mona Lisa – Leonardo da Vinci’s famous portrait.
• Venus de Milo – An exquisite ancient Greek sculpture.
• Winged Victory of Samothrace – A breathtaking Hellenistic masterpiece.
• The glass pyramid – A striking architectural feature of the museum.

Tip: Arrive early or visit on Friday evenings when it’s less crowded. Consider purchasing skip-the-line tickets.

3. Wander Through Montmartre and Visit Sacré-Cœur 

Montmartre is a charming neighborhood filled with art, history, and character. Some must-visit spots include:

• Basilica of Sacré-Cœur – A beautiful white-domed church offering panoramic views of Paris.
• Place du Tertre – A lively square where artists paint portraits.
• Moulin Rouge – The world-famous cabaret.
• Cafés and bistros – Enjoy a coffee at quaint spots like Le Consulat.

Tip: Go in the early morning or evening for a quieter experience.

4. Walk the Champs-Élysées and See the Arc de Triomphe 

The Champs-Élysées is Paris’s most famous avenue, perfect for a leisurely stroll, shopping, and sightseeing.

• Climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for an incredible city view.
• Visit luxury boutiques or browse popular flagship stores.
• Stop at a café and soak in the Parisian atmosphere.

Tip: Visit at night for a beautifully illuminated view of the monument.

5. Take a Seine River Cruise 

A boat cruise along the Seine is a relaxing way to see the city’s landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. Choose from:

• Sightseeing cruises – Ideal for first-time visitors.
• Dinner cruises – Enjoy a gourmet meal as the city lights up.
• Hop-on-hop-off boat tours – Combine sightseeing with easy transport.

Tip: Popular companies include Bateaux Parisiens and Bateaux-Mouches.

6. Explore the Latin Quarter and Visit the Panthéon 

One of the oldest districts in Paris, the Latin Quarter is full of charm and history. Highlights include:

• The Panthéon – The resting place of French greats like Victor Hugo and Marie Curie.
• Shakespeare & Company – A legendary English-language bookstore.
• The Sorbonne – One of Europe’s most historic universities.
• Rue Mouffetard – A lively street lined with markets and cafés.

Tip: The best way to explore this neighborhood is on foot.

7. Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité 

Though Notre-Dame suffered damage in the 2019 fire, it remains a must-see landmark. While there, you can:

• Admire its stunning Gothic facade.
• Walk around Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris.
• Visit Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its dazzling stained-glass windows.

Tip: Notre-Dame is set to reopen in late 2024—check for updates before your visit.

8. Savor Parisian Cuisine and Pâtisseries 

Paris is a paradise for food lovers. Don’t miss:

• Fresh croissants and pain au chocolat from a local bakery.
• French onion soup and escargots at a traditional bistro.
• Macarons from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.
• Crêpes from a street vendor.
• Michelin-star dining at a renowned restaurant.

Tip: Make reservations in advance for popular dining spots.

9. Take a Half-Day Trip to the Palace of Versailles 

A short train ride from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is an extravagant showcase of French royalty. Highlights include:

• The Hall of Mirrors – A grand gallery with stunning chandeliers and mirrors.
• The Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Estate – Beautiful retreats within the palace grounds.
• The Versailles Gardens – Meticulously designed landscapes with fountains and sculptures.

Tip: Arrive early and book skip-the-line tickets to maximize your time.

10. Experience Parisian Nightlife in Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés 

As the sun sets, Paris comes alive. The best nightlife spots include:

• Le Marais – Known for stylish cocktail bars and LGBTQ+ friendly venues.
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés – Classic jazz clubs and historic cafés.
• Rooftop bars – Enjoy breathtaking views at places like Terrass” Hotel.
• Cabaret shows – Experience the magic of the Moulin Rouge or Lido.

Tip: Many venues require reservations, so plan ahead.

Final Thoughts 

A weekend in Paris is an unforgettable experience filled with history, beauty, and delicious food. Whether you’re exploring world-famous museums, wandering through charming neighborhoods, or indulging in French delicacies, every moment in this city feels special. Plan ahead, embrace spontaneity, and let Paris cast its spell on you.