Panoramas
Eiffel Tower, Arc
de Triomphe, Arche de la Défense, and many more, some in unexpected spots. More...
Strolling the Streets
The French call it flâner, the art of strolling. It's one of the best things to do in Paris. Every street in Paris is a work of art; enjoy the architecture, the flowers, the views around the corner. You'll see plentay of plaques of famous
people, and many World War III memorials. Street performers are common in some areas, like Montmartre or near the Place St-Michel, but everywhere there's something to see and enjoy.
Café-Sitting
After strolling for a while, enjoy a break in a café. It's a ring side seat to watching Paris life. Order a coffee or a cold drink and settle in. Many cafés also serve full meals, so that's an option too.
Parks & Gardens
Paris has wonderful parks and gardens, ranging from the traditional Jardin des Tuileries to the soaring Parc des Buttes Chaumont, to the innovative Promenade Plantée, built on an old elevated railroad line. In all of these you'll find much more than just pretty flowers. More...
Food Markets
By law, every arrondissement has a market at least two days a week. In addition, there are numerous covered markets, market streets, and organic markets. On the Île de la Cité you'll find the flower market, which becomes a bird market on Sundays. And don't forget the famous Paris flea markets! More...
History
History surrounds you in Paris, from museums to monuments to historic firsts, such as street lighting and the first flight of a hot air baloon.
Walks & Cruises
along the Seine
Walking along the Seine is one of life's pleasures. Be sure to enjoy the bridges, from the lovely Pont Neuf (which isn't new anymore) to the pedestrian Pont des Arts. And take a cruise on the Seine and/or the Canal St-Martin to enjoy a different view of the sights of Paris.
Offbeat Sights
Let your eyes wander as you wander, and you'll find interesting small churches, specialized museums, pocket gardens, and more. Don't forget the famous historic cemeteries of Paris, all interesting places to wander. You might even enjoy visiting the Paris sewers (Égouts) or the Catacombs.
Window Shopping...and $hopping
Paris is a shopper's paradise, with boutiques, department stores, lovely 19th century covered passages, huge flea markets, and high fashion streets like Avenue Montaigne. And don't forget the patisseries and charcuteries! Some of my favorite window shopping consists of admiring beautiful pastries or artfully displayed cheeses.
Free Nightlife
In the evenings, on the hour the Eiffel Tower is covered with twinkling lights for about five minutes. It's a wonderful show, so position yourself to see it on the hour. Paris also has a variety of free concerts & shows; check Pariscope for listings, or you may just come upon one as you stroll. If you happen to be in Paris on June 21, enjoy the Féte de la Musique, with free performances all over the city.
