Paris Bucket List (2026)

This Paris bucket list covers the best attractions, landmarks and experiences in the city of lights, helping you plan your perfect trip to Paris.

Paris, the enchanting capital of France, is a city that effortlessly blends romance, art, history, and style. Known as the “City of Light,” it captivates visitors with its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral; there are so many reasons to visit Paris.

Strolling along the Seine River, exploring charming cafés, and admiring world-class art and architecture make every moment feel magical. Planning a trip to Paris is also a culinary haven, offering everything from fresh pastries in local bakeries to gourmet dining in Michelin-starred restaurants.

Whether you’re drawn by fashion, culture, or the city’s timeless atmosphere, Paris is a destination that inspires love and wonder at every turn.

Paris Bucket List

Eiffel Tower

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Eiffel Tower on your Paris bucket list. Get there for opening time to avoid standing in long queues and make sure you are queuing at the correct leg of the tower depending on whether you want to take the lift or climb the many, many stairs. Of course, this is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris too.

Lift entrance ticket costs €17 for an adult and €14.50 for those 12-24 years old. Those wishing to take the stairs (good luck!) can pay €7 for an adult ticket, €5 for 12-24-year-olds and €3 for 4 -11-year-olds. Metro line 6 to Bir-Hakeim and line 9 to Trocadero will take you just a short walk from the Tower or the RER line C to Champs de Marts – Tour Eiffel is just a short walk as well. Batobus boats are available for those wishing to get to the Eiffel Tower via the river.

The Louvre

This famous art museum is home to the world-famous Mona Lisa along with incredible masterpieces such as the Venus de Milo, the Liberty leading the people, and the Code of Hammurabi; a well-preserved Babylonian law code of ancient Mesopotamia.

It is worth a visit just for the beautiful architecture and museum design. Admission fee is included in the Paris Pass with fast track entrance.

The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays, open 9 am – 6 pm during the week apart from Wednesday and Friday when it is open from 9 am – 9.45 pm. Tickets cost €15 and entrance is free if you are 18-25 years old and residents of the EU or a visitor under the age of 18.

The first Sunday of every month is also free. Catch the metro to Palais-Royal-Musee Du Louvre Station (line 1) or get the Batobus to the Louvre stop; Quad Francois Mitterrand.

Notre Dame de Paris

This is one of my favorite places in Paris because of its vivid connection to a favorite childhood movie of mine; The Hunchback of Notre Dame. This is a stunning Gothic Cathedral with such intricate sculptures and gorgeous stained glass windows, a must when in Paris.

Open 7.30 am – 7.30 pm in the winter months and 7 am – 9 pm in the Summer. Entrance is free though you may wish to contribute a donation to the church. RER lines B and C take you to Saint-Michel-Notre Dame station for the most efficient route.

Arc De Triomphe

One of the most famous monuments in Paris and replicated across the world, Arc De Triomphe is a popular choice for tourists and a must on your Paris bucket list. You can even climb to the top of the Arc for a great view but be aware the steps are steep and spiral upwards.

Open 10 am to 11 pm from April to September than 10 am to 10.30 pm from October to March. Entrance costs €8 for adults and €5 for those 18 -25 years old. The RER line A to Charles-de-Gaulle-toile is the best route to get there.

Champs-Elysées

Leading up to the Arc De Triomphe is the Champs-Elysées; a collection of high-end shops, always good even for some window shopping.

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous avenues in the world, stretching from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe in the heart of Paris. Lined with grand trees, luxury boutiques, cafés, and theatres, it perfectly captures the city’s blend of elegance and energy. If you’re visiting Paris on a budget, you can stick to window shopping and still enjoy the neighborhood.

Often called “the world’s most beautiful avenue,” it’s a popular spot for both Parisians and tourists to stroll, shop, and soak up the atmosphere. The avenue also hosts major events such as the Bastille Day military parade and the finish line of the Tour de France, making it a symbol of French pride and celebration.

Sacre-Coeur

The Sacré-Cœur Basilica, perched on the summit of Montmartre Hill, is one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Its gleaming white domes can be seen from across the city, symbolizing peace and faith.

Built in the late 19th century, the basilica features stunning Roman-Byzantine architecture and intricate mosaics, including the famous “Christ in Majesty” above the altar.

Visitors can climb to the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of Paris or simply relax on the steps outside, where street performers and artists create a lively, bohemian atmosphere.

The Sacré-Cœur is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and artistic treasure that captures the spirit of Montmartre.

Open from 6am to 10.30pm, entrance is free. The nearest metro stop is Anvers serviced by Metro Line 2. Sacre-Coeur is a popular choice for tourists, offering beautiful architecture along with some stunning views of Paris.

Disneyland Paris

For all those who wish to discover the big kid inside them, Disneyland Paris is a slightly quieter but just as magical version of its American double; a must on your Paris bucket list. When looking at the best time to visit Paris, aim for the Spring and Autumn months for warm, quiet weather or during December for the festive activities.

Disneyland is open 10 am to 8 pm with the Walt Disney Studios Park open from 10 am to 6 pm. A ‘1 day, 2 parks’ ticket prices start at €70. The Eurostar offers direct trains from London St Pancras, Ebbsfleet International, or Ashford International straight to the park.

The regional RER train is available to Marne-la-Vallee Chessy, just a 5-minute walk from the parks and is a great option for those visiting Disneyland Paris on a budget.

Catacombs of Paris

The Catacombs of Paris are a haunting yet fascinating underground labyrinth that holds the remains of over six million people, another one of the more unique Paris bucket list items. Created in the late 18th century to solve the city’s overflowing cemeteries, the tunnels stretch for miles beneath the streets of Paris.

Remember to bring a light sweater as it can get chilly underground and use the bathroom before heading underground.

Open from 9 am to 5 pm and costing €8; tickets need to be booked on the website in advance. RER line B to Denfert-Rochereau is an easy route to the Catacombs.

Musee d’Orsay

Musee d’Orsay offers French art dating from 1848 to 1915, ideal for art lovers on your Paris bucket list. Housed in a beautifully restored Beaux-Arts railway station on the banks of the Seine, the museum showcases an outstanding collection of French art from 1848 to 1914, including masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir.

The museum is especially famous for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works, offering visitors a vibrant journey through one of the most creative periods in art history. With its grand architecture and breathtaking artworks, the Musée d’Orsay is a must-visit for any art lover in Paris.

Open 9.30 am to 6 pm costing €11 and free for 18 – 25-year-old, EU citizens. Metro line 12 to Solferino or RER line C to Musee d’Orsay are the quickest and most efficient ways to get to the museum.

Montparnasse Tower

The Montparnasse Tower is a sleek, modern skyscraper that stands out amid Paris’s historic skyline. Rising 210 meters high, it was completed in 1973 and remains one of the tallest buildings in the city.

While its dark glass exterior has sparked debate among Parisians, the tower offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris — especially because it includes the Eiffel Tower in the vista.

Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the 56th floor observation deck or the open-air rooftop terrace to enjoy breathtaking sights, particularly stunning at sunset or after dark when the city lights sparkle below.

Open from 9.30 am to 11.30 pm April to September, then 9.30 am to 10.30 pm from October to March. Tickets cost €15 for an adult or €11.70 for those aged 16 to 20 or students. Catch Metro Lines 4,6,12 or 13 to Montparnasse-Bienvenue Station.

Things to Know Before you go to Paris

Paris Bucket List FAQ

• What are the must-see attractions in Paris?
  The most iconic sights include the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, and the Champs-Élysées. Don’t miss Montmartre with the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, the Musée d’Orsay, and a scenic Seine River cruise; all a must on your Paris bucket list.

• How many days do I need to see the best of Paris?
  Spend 3 to 5 days to experience Paris properly. Three days cover the highlights, while five allow time for museums, charming neighborhoods like Le Marais and Montmartre, and relaxed café moments.

• What are some unique things to add to my Paris bucket list?
  Explore the Catacombs of Paris, climb the Montparnasse Tower for panoramic views, stroll through covered passages, or enjoy a picnic by the Seine. Watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night is a must-do experience.

• When is the best time to visit Paris?
  Visit in spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) for mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is lively but busy, while winter brings Christmas markets and a cozy, festive charm.

• What local foods should I try in Paris?
  Don’t miss croissants, baguettes, macarons, crêpes, escargots, and French onion soup. Pair a café meal with wine and cheese, and sample sweet treats from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé.

• Is it worth going up the Eiffel Tower?
  Yes — the views are stunning, especially at sunset or night. For a less crowded but equally breathtaking alternative with a view of the tower, head to the Montparnasse Tower or Trocadéro Gardens.

• What’s the best way to get around Paris?
  The Metro is fast, affordable, and easy to use. Walking is great for discovering charming streets, while buses and Seine boat cruises offer scenic routes.

• Are day trips from Paris worth it?
  Definitely. Top choices include Versailles, Giverny, and the Champagne region, where you can explore royal palaces, Monet’s gardens, and world-famous vineyards.

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