Paris is popularly known as the enchanting “City of Light,” and it is also a top destination for travellers worldwide, especially during the summer.
It can also be described as a magical destination that captivates visitors with its timeless charm, rich history, iconic landmarks, cuisines and vibrant atmosphere.
With summer in full swing, the city comes alive with a special energy, offering countless opportunities for exploration and adventure for natives and tourists alike.
To help you make the most of your summer holiday, we’ve curated a list of 8 popular places you can explore in Paris. Let’s get into them.
1. Eiffel Tower
Constructed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower has become a symbol of Paris and French engineering prowess.
Standing 324 meters (1,063 feet) tall, it offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city, allowing visitors to see famous sights.
Famous sights like the Arc de Triomphe, the Seine River, and the sprawling layout of Paris from a breathtaking vantage point.
The Eiffel Tower is not just about the views; it also offers a rich cultural and historical experience.
The tower has been a site of numerous scientific experiments, historical events, and artistic inspiration throughout its history.
On the first level, visitors can explore the museum and exhibition spaces that detail the tower’s construction, its place in Parisian life, and its significance throughout the years.
The second level features high-end dining at the renowned restaurant Le Jules Verne, offering gourmet French cuisine with a stunning view.
Additionally, the top level provides an exhilarating experience, complete with a champagne bar to toast the spectacular views.
2. Seine River
Flowing through the heart of Paris, the Seine provides a scenic backdrop to some of the city’s most famous attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
Taking a river cruise allows you to view these landmarks from a different perspective, gliding smoothly past them while enjoying the gentle breeze and the reflections of the city’s lights on the water.
The Seine River plays a central role in many of the city’s festivals and events, providing a lively and festive atmosphere for both locals and tourists to explore in Paris during summer.
3. Luxembourg Gardens
Luxembourg Gardens is located in the heart of the city’s Left Bank, with the gardens covering over 23 hectares and meticulously designed with French formal gardens.
The tranquillity of the gardens, with their lush greenery and vibrant flowers, creates an ideal setting for a leisurely afternoon, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s busy streets.
Visitors can stroll along the tree-lined promenades, relax by the central pond, or explore the beautifully manicured flowerbeds and statues.
It also serves as a hub of recreational activities, making it a vibrant spot for both tourists and locals.
Children can enjoy puppet shows, sail toy boats in the central pond, and play in the dedicated playground area.
For adults, the gardens offer tennis courts, a vintage carousel, and frequent open-air concerts.
Seasonal flower shows and horticultural displays attract gardening enthusiasts, while the many benches and shaded areas provide perfect spots for reading or picnicking.
The lively yet relaxed atmosphere of the Luxembourg Gardens, combined with its recreational opportunities, makes it an engaging destination for visitors of all ages.
4. Paris Catacombs
Located beneath the bustling streets of Paris, this extensive network of underground ossuaries holds the remains of over six million people, transferred here in the late 18th and early 19th centuries to address the city’s overflowing cemeteries.
Walking through these dimly lit tunnels lined with carefully arranged bones and skulls offers a unique and poignant perspective on Parisian history, providing an unforgettable experience that contrasts sharply with the city’s elegant surface.
Visiting the Paris Catacombs offers a rare opportunity to explore a hidden side of Paris that few tourists see.
The descent into the cool, dark depths of the earth provides a stark contrast to the vibrant life above ground, offering a moment of quiet reflection and contemplation.
This unique attraction appeals to those interested in history, architecture, and the macabre, providing a deeper understanding of how Paris has managed the challenges of urban growth and mortality over the centuries.
The catacombs are a compelling destination that enriches any visit to Paris with its haunting beauty and historical depth.
If you’re a curious tourist and keen on adventure, this is a good place to explore in Paris.
5. Montmartre
This is one of Paris’s most iconic neighbourhoods and it offers stunning panoramic views of the city from the steps of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
The summer weather enhances the experience, making it perfect for outdoor exploration.
Visitors can wander through the narrow, cobbled streets, discovering charming cafes, artist studios, and quaint shops that retain the area’s historic charm.
The lively Place du Tertre, where artists set up their easels to paint and sell their works, becomes even more bustling in the summer, providing a lively and colourful scene reminiscent of Montmartre’s artistic heritage.
6. Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is renowned for its stunning architecture and grandeur.
It was originally a hunting lodge, but it was transformed into a sprawling palace by King Louis XIV, symbolising absolute monarchy and French opulence.
The palace’s design features exquisite Baroque architecture, including intricate façades, lavish interiors, and expansive gardens that showcase the artistry and vision of the era.
Versailles is a treasure trove of art and culture. The palace’s rooms are adorned with masterpieces by renowned artists, including works by Charles Le Brun and other prominent painters of the period.
The museum within the palace displays an impressive collection of art, sculptures, and historical artefacts, providing a rich cultural experience for visitors.
7. Disneyland Paris
If you’re in Paris with your kids, then you should take them to Disneyland.
Disneyland Paris offers an immersive experience where fairy tales and beloved Disney characters come to life.
From meeting iconic characters like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella to exploring enchanting lands such as Fantasyland and Adventureland, visitors can step into a world of wonder and imagination.
Disneyland Paris offers a variety of dining options, from quick-service eateries to fine dining experiences which makes it a perfect spot to explore in Paris with your kids.
Visitors can savour everything from classic theme park fare to gourmet meals in beautifully themed restaurants.
The park also features numerous shops where guests can purchase exclusive Disney merchandise and souvenirs to remember their magical visit.
8. Notre Dame Cathedral
The bell towers of Notre Dame offer one of the best panoramic views of Paris. Climbing the 422 steps to the top rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the city and the Seine River.
The experience of seeing the famous gargoyles up close and taking in the view is truly memorable.
Notre Dame Cathedral is not only an architectural and historical landmark but also a functioning place of worship. You can either attend a Mass or simply spend time in quiet reflection within its sacred space.
Following the devastating fire in 2019, significant efforts have been underway to restore and preserve Notre Dame.
Kindly note that when you visit the cathedral, you’re supporting the ongoing restoration efforts and providing an opportunity to witness the resilience and dedication involved in preserving this cultural icon.
Conclusion
In this article, we shared 8 popular places you should explore in Paris this summer, and we hope you have fun while are at it. For flight deals to Paris and other countries, visit our website: www.touchdowntravels.net
More Articles
6 Exciting Activities To Explore in London This Summer
How To Plan a Stress-Free Family Vacation
