Paris: 29 Popular (+ Secret) Gems…Who Needs Sleep?
By Sam Lee, 2025. Paris has a ton going on, where do you even begin to plan your trip?
Well, here are 29 must-see spots to add to your Paris bucket list — including a few hidden gems, because who doesn’t love pretending they’re not a tourist for five minutes? And if this list is not enough for you, here are six seriously good day trips only 90 mins from Paris to consider. Read on!
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Key attractions
01 — The most famous landmark in the world
02 — Stunning memorial with views
03 — Every city needs a park like this
04 — Largest art gallery in the world
05 — Atmospheric, creepy + fun!
06 — Waterfalls, greenery + views
07 — Think ‘can-can’. Got it, right?
08 — Medieval, modern (+ cozy)
09 — Laugh with the kiddos (big + small)
10 — Former station now gallery glam
11 — Canal for the boho-bourgeois crowd
12 — Super-glam shopping paradise
13 — Once had citrus trees; now water lilies
14 — The ‘real’ Paris flea + food market
15 — Most famous Gothic Cathedral
16 — Ultra-modern fashion house
17 — Famous bookstore with a backstory
18 — Kinda weird and crazy (+ a lot of fun)
19 — Zoom up this monstrosity for views
20 — Say hello to dead famous folk
21 — Geek out at this science museum
22 — The most famous street in the world?
23 — The world’s biggest flea market
Hidden gems
24 — Graffiti galore. Food. Possibly music
25 — Chill where flowers overtake rail lines
26 — Escape along this elevated greenway
27 — Stroll this cool canal with cool locals
28 — Take Insta shots at this colorful spot
29 — Smell the roses; see some birds
01—
The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower. You know the one—it's that giant iron lady that towers over Paris, making everyone else look short and insignificant. It’s the obvious number one on the list. It’s a must-visit at least once (if you’ve been there and done that, scroll down to some of my lesser-known gems).
The Eiffel Tower offers truly great views from its summit, originally built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle and slated for removal in 1909 (lucky they kept it!).
Its unique silhouette can be spotted from almost anywhere in the city. Walking underneath and around the tower is free, but you’ll need to prebook tickets to reach the second floor or summit.
Beyond the stunning vistas, the tower boasts a glass floor and a swanky champagne bar on the third level. Feeling peckish? You can dine at a brasserie or even a Michelin-starred restaurant.
And, at night, it sparkles like a disco ball every hour on the hour, a top spot for romantic gestures. Proposals, anyone?
Pro tip: If you’re visiting in the European summer, go in the morning before the crowds descend. Plus, try not to buy any trinkets or food immediately around the site; it’s laden with tourist traps and scams, and everything is overpriced.
02—
Arc de Triomphe
First dreamed up by Napoleon, the stunning Arc de Triomphe in Paris didn't actually get finished until 1836. As the city's biggest war memorial, it offers amazing views from its top, which you can reach after climbing a mere 284 steps (*puff*).
From up there, you'll see the perfect alignment between La Défense and the Louvre. Just try not to get too distracted by the madness of the unmarked traffic circle below.
Fun fact (or fiction?): Insurance companies supposedly charge extra for coverage of this roundabout—and when you see it, you'll understand why. There is no way I'm driving through that!
Pro tip: Don't miss the bronze plaque featuring a transcript of Charles de Gaulle's famous 1940 radio address from London. This speech is widely considered the spark that ignited the French Resistance against Nazi occupation. It's worth taking a moment for.
03—
Tuileries Garden
Every great city needs a stellar park, and Paris delivers with the Jardin des Tuileries. Designed by André Le Nôtre in 1664, the park sits by the Place de la Concorde.
This well-manicured green space epitomizes French landscaping: Think pristine hedges, neat paths, and flowers that look too perfect to be real.
As you stroll through the Gardens, you’ll bump into a bunch of elevated sculptures and life-size statues. One of the stars of the show? The Kiss by Auguste Rodin.
Fun fact: “Tuileries” might sound fancy, but it actually means tile factories in French. The Tuileries Palace in Paris, which got torched in 1871, and its gardens owe their name to the tile kilns that used to occupy the spot before royalty moved in.
04—
The Louvre
Obviously, I have to suggest visiting the world's largest museum. The Louvre is like a mini metropolis with endless corridors, galleries, and stairways.
And let's not forget the sea of visitors — more than 10 million each year. It can be a bit daunting, considering there are 35,000 works on display across eight departments and three wings. Seeing everything in one day? Forget about it.
It's best to plan which areas you want to hit beforehand and take your time navigating through the throngs. And of course, no Louvre visit is complete without gazing at the legendary Mona Lisa in the Salle de la Joconde — it's a classic for a reason, folks. Those eyes have stories.
Pro Tip: If the crowds are making you claustrophobic, take advantage of the Louvre's extended-hour evenings on Fridays. The museum stays open until 9:45 pm and tends to be much quieter — the perfect time to visit and then move on to a swanky bar for a cocktail or three. It’s Friday night, after all.
Oh, and don’t forget to pre-book your tickets. I recommend the Louvre Museum Ticket & Mona Lisa Digital Audio Guide package. But there are other options too:
05—
The Catacombs
I love everything about The Catacombs (does that make me macabre?) You can't truly grasp their essence without experiencing them in person. It’s an experience you won’t forget, that’s for The Catacombse. If you’re budget allows, I recommend this small group tour.
Stretching over 180 miles beneath the city, this massive network of tunnels showcases the remains of six million people, including those who met their end during the Revolutionary Terror.
As you wander the tight passageways, you'll come face to face with the skeletons of Marat, Robespierre, and their revolutionary pals, along with countless other Parisians. It's an extraordinary, albeit spine-chilling, sight.
Don't forget to bundle up—it's not just cold down there, but also eerily atmospheric. Make sure to visit the entrance to the ossuary, marked by a sign that reads: "This is the empire of death." Talk about a warm welcome!
06—
Buttes-Chaumont Park
Designed by Adolphe Alphand for Haussmann and opened in 1867 as part of the Exposition Universelle celebrations, ‘Parc des Buttes-Chaumont’ is a wonderland of meandering paths, waterfalls, temples, and cliffs — with stellar views of the city.
Nestled in the northeastern Belleville neighborhood, the park is like that cool, laid-back cousin among Paris's more formal green spaces. Locals flock here for some sun or shade, especially during those sweltering heat waves.
Sure, it's a bit of a workout with its uphill terrain, but this gem is a must-see for those daring enough to stray from the typical tourist stops. The park boasts a few lively bars, so you can turn your stroll into a party if you’re feeling the vibe.
07—
The Moulin Rouge
Okay, okay. The Moulin Rouge is touristy but not just a tourist attraction. Undeniably, the world's most legendary nightclub, The Moulin Rouge has been the playground for a dazzling array of showbiz stars and musicians since it first opened in 1889 (taking a six-year hiatus after a pesky fire in 1915).
This iconic hotspot birthed one of the twentieth century’s most famous dances: the can-can. Most nights, more than 50 incredible can-can dancers dazzle audiences with their perfect synchronization in the two-hour spectacle known as 'Féerie.'
Beyond being a tourist magnet, this cabaret is a beloved haunt for Parisians who also enjoy its sister venues: The Machine and the rooftop Bar à Bulles.
To cap off your fabulous outing, grab a glass of champagne or two, and voila! You've nailed the quintessential French night out!
08—
The Marais
Once upon a time, the Marais was the swanky playground of French aristocrats. Post-French Revolution, it did a 180 and morphed into one of Paris’s coolest neighborhoods.
Think LGBTQ+ friendly spots, quirky vintage stores, and art galleries that’ll make your Instagram pop. It’s a beautiful mash-up of medieval architecture and modern flair.
The area’s got some serious museum game too, with the Picasso Museum and the Carnavalet Museum diving deep into Parisian life’s juicy backstory.
Consider a small-group guided tour by a local — it’s well worth it:
09—
Disneyland Paris
I’m not a big fan of theme parks, but I totally get why Disneyland Paris is Europe’s premier theme park destination. You’ll dance, you’ll scream, you’ll feel nostalgic, and you’ll laugh. Boy, you will laugh. It's all about having a blast for both the kiddos and the grown-ups.
The park is actually two parks: Parc Disneyland (EuroDisney) and Parc Walt Disney Studios. There are also clear zones like Fantasyland, Discoveryland, and Pirates of the Caribbean to help you get around.
If you're hungry or just need to bust a move, Disney Entertainment Village has got you covered with food, drinks, and dance floors.
Book your tickets and transport (and maybe accommodation) in advance, and consider securing Disney Premier Access. Sure, it's an extra cost, but it lets you skip the lines at the most popular attractions. Because who really wants to stand in line when you could be riding Space Mountain for the fifth time?
10—
Musée d’Orsay
If you’re hanging around the Eiffel Tower, your next stop should be the one and only, Musée d’Orsay. Before it became a top-tier art gallery, the Musée d’Orsay was actually the first electrified train station in the world. But despite its charm, it couldn’t handle the ever-growing size of trains, so the French government had a genius idea: fill it with art instead. Classic French move, right?
This is where art lovers go for a heavy dose of the biggest and best names in Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Soak up all that color, light, and scenic views before diving into the decorative art collections for some Art Nouveau glam. Fabulous.
Top tip: Visit the awesome nautical-themed coffee shop/café hidden behind the big clock.
11—
Canal Saint-Martin
Next is Canal Saint-Martin. Built in the early 1800s during Napoleon’s era it was designed to bring drinking water and goods to the ever-growing city. Fast forward to the late 1800s, and it was all about factories and warehouses.
But now, those factories are chic lofts for Paris’s ever-growing bohemian-bourgeois crowd. The quayside is packed with bars, restaurants, and shops.
On Sundays and holidays, cars are kicked out so walkers and cyclists can take over. Perfect for your Instagram-worthy picnic or hike.
12—
Galeries Lafayette
Galeries Lafayette is a paradise for shopaholics and architecture buffs, with plenty to offer foodies and wine aficionados, too.
What started as a humble fashion haberdashery has morphed into a swanky global shopping hotspot. With its intricate iron ceilings and fancy lattice glass, it's a feast for the eyes.
And don’t miss the rooftop—it's got killer views of Paris, including the Grand Palais and Eiffel Tower. Seriously, it’s like Instagram heaven up there!
13—
Musée de l’Orangerie
The Musée de l’Orangerie is a gem of an art museum in the heart of Paris. Once home to citrus trees, this swanky space now showcases Claude Monet's epic water lilies series.
The museum’s layout is well-choreographed, with natural light flooding the cylindrical rooms, making masterpieces by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Henri Matisse, and Paul Cézanne glow like they’re in the spotlight.
These are the kind of pieces that make you say, “Wow, I’m really glad I left the hotel room today”.
14—
Marché des Enfants Rouges
The Marché des Enfants Rouges, one of the oldest covered markets in Paris. Nestled in the heart of the Marais district, this historic gem dates back to 1628 and was originally set up to supply fresh produce to the local folks.
Nowadays, it’s buzzing with life as vendors offer a smorgasbord of goodies from around the globe—think artisanal French cheeses, charcuterie, Moroccan tagines, and Vietnamese pho.
Interesting fact: its name means "Market of Red Children," inspired by a nearby orphanage where kids wore red uniforms.
This is the ‘real’ Paris, and well worth a visit!
15—
Notre Dame Cathedral
Recently reopened following a major fire in 2019, walking into Notre Dame is like stepping into history so deep that you can feel it in your bones. Seriously.
And the architecture’s not bad too :)
Enjoy the statues and gargoyles as you stroll up to its Gothic facade. Inside, the vaulted ceilings stretch high above, framed by the stained glass windows, which tell biblical stories in vibrant colors.
The mood shifts a bit when you stand before the grand altar or admire the famed rose windows — great spots for a little life contemplation.
Notre Dame has stood resilient through revolutions and fires and subsequent major restorations and continues to be a hub for cultural gatherings and celebrations.
Notre Dame, I salute you. Glad to have you back in full health.
16—
Fondation Louis Vuitton
In 2014, the Fondation Louis Vuitton unveiled its 11 ultra-modern galleries in the Bois de Boulogne, designed by famous architect Frank Gehry. The remarkable structure has since become a venue for various exhibitions showcasing prominent modern and contemporary artists.
Anticipate pieces by Jean-Michel Basquiat, Gilbert & George, and Jeff Koons, among others, along with unique, site-specific installations.
Top tip: Keep an eye out for events held alongside exhibitions, which often feature appearances by renowned artists and curators.
17—
Shakespeare & Co
The original Shakespeare & Co, founded by Sylvia Beach closed during the Paris occupation. Today, a plaque at 12 Rue de l'Odéon commemorates its former site. In 1951, the itinerant George Whitman opened Le Mistral at 37 Rue de la Bûcherie.
To honor Beach, he renamed it in 1964 and even named his daughter after her. George passed away in 2011 at the age of 98, but he had turned the shop into a truly special place.
For over sixty years, Shakespeare & Company has been a gathering spot, a wellspring of inspiration, and a haven for beat generation bohemians, writers, travelers, and passionate readers. This legendary venue has also appeared in various films, books, and memoirs.
The expansive site houses an extensive collection of second-hand and rare books, while the main store is a labyrinth of book-filled hallways, cozy alcoves, and reading rooms. It is a must-visit for bibliophiles from all corners of the world.
A little warning: I won’t lie. The store gets packed during peak tourist season, and there is usually a long line. Visit off-season for your best experience.
18—
Le Crazy Horse
Le Crazy Horse has been showcasing its nude revue, known as art du nu, since it was founded in 1951 by the iconic Alain Bernardin.
Even after seventy years, it continues to attract a large audience — remaining a celebration of femininity within specific boundaries: dancers, who go by intriguing stage names, all share identical body proportions. Performers are even required to have nipples aligned at the same height. Kinda weird but intriguing, right?
The show features plenty of vibrant lighting, strategically placed strips of black tape, and some gender-bending performances. It’s a respectable nude cabaret that you can probably take your mother to.
19—
Montparnasse Tower
Ditch the Eiffel Tower crowds and get a killer view of Paris (including the Eiffel Tower) from the Montparnasse Tower — or do both to cover all your bases!
When you arrive at the Montparnasse modern monstrosity, hop on the super-fast elevator that soars you to the fifty-sixth floor. Up there, you'll find aerial shots of Paris, a café for your caffeine fix, and a souvenir shop where you’ll find some overpriced trinkets.
Forget the trinkets because you’re there for the view. Take the second elevator to the open-air rooftop for unbeatable views of the Paris skyline. On a clear day, you can see up to 25 miles away.
Pro tip: Go during twilight when Paris lights up like a Christmas tree.
20—
Père-Lachaise
I know that recommending a trip to a cemetery is weird, but Père-Lachaise is no ordinary cemetery. Located in Paris's 20th arrondissement, it’s one of the world’s most visited burial grounds, attracting millions of tourists each year.
But what really draws the crowds? Well, it’s the final resting place for a slew of famous historical and cultural figures. Literary giants like Oscar Wilde, Marcel Proust, and Honoré de Balzac lie here, alongside musical legends such as Jim Morrison, Frédéric Chopin, and Edith Piaf.
But don’t think it’s just a star-studded graveyard. Père-Lachaise also boasts stunning landscaping, winding paths, towering trees, intricately designed tombs, and great views.
Some graves have become tourist attractions in their own right, thanks to quirky local legends. Take the grave of Victor Noir, for example. His tomb is often covered in flowers and lipstick marks because rumor has it that touching or kissing his statue’s, um, private parts brings fertility or good luck in love. Who knew cemeteries could be so... interactive? Talking about interactive, this “Who killed Victor” tour looks amazing.
Père-Lachaise is open to the public every day of the year, and admission is free. Please remember that it’s an active cemetery, so keep the noise down and save the picnic for another park. Respect is the name of the game here.
21—
La Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie
To call Europe's largest science museum popular would be an understatement. It attracts an impressive five million visitors annually. Once you’ve been, you’ll understand why.
The permanent exhibition, Explora, guides visitors through a sprawling 30,000-square-meter area that explores the intricate details of life, the universe, and everything in between.
Highlights include detailed scale models of satellites such as the Ariane space shuttle, airplanes, and robots and an opportunity to experience weightlessness. Then, there’s the greenhouse garden, which delves into advancements in agriculture and biotechnology.
22—
Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées has stood the test of time and continues to be Paris' premier shopping destination. The avenue is loud and intense, yet unmistakably Parisian with sophisticated consumer appeal.
The shops are upscale, and they feature art displays, live DJs, and other visuals that keep the shopping experience lively.
Top tip: Visit the Champs-Élysées Christmas market and fairground for the gorgeous festive atmosphere.
23—
Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen
Widely believed to be the biggest flea market in the world, the Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen is the place to go for one-of-a-kind finds. This isn’t just any market; it’s a sprawling maze where you’ll discover everything from quirky antique furniture to retro vinyl records and dazzling jewelry.
Take a break and indulge in a buttery croissant or a cheeky café au lait— and some world-class people watching.
Top tip: bring some cash, as many vendors are still old-school when it comes to payment. Oh, and wear comfortable shoes!
24—
Rue Dénoyez in Belleville
Paris has had a pretty serious street art scene. The top spot to explore? Rue Dénoyez in Belleville. This lively street always hops with a few talented graffiti artists, even in broad daylight.
Famous for its vibrant atmosphere, Rue Dénoyez is a living gallery with walls covered in colorful murals and street art by local and international artists. The cobblestone street meanders through a mix of artisan shops, cozy cafés, and fresh food markets.
On weekends, Rue Dénoyez morphs into a creative playground with musicians staging impromptu performances and community events. Well worth a visit.
25—
La Petite Ceinture
La Petite Ceinture is a retired railway that hugs Paris like a little belt. The track’s been in shambles since the last freight train chugged through in the ’80s, but now it’s turned into an urban park. Flowers have taken over the rails, and you can stroll away from the city’s chaos like a hipster in a nature documentary.
Some of the old train stations have been reincarnated as restaurants, brasseries, and even a coworking space. You can access this quirky gem via entry points in the twelfth through twentieth arrondissements.
26—
La Coulée Verte
Once old train tracks, La Coulée Verte is a 5km elevated greenway slicing through Paris — and your ticket to city views and hidden gems without the touristy fluff. It’s also colloquially known as the Promenade Plantée.
Walking the whole thing can easily take up most of the day, so if you’re committed to the hike, pack a picnic with some wine and take a long, leisurely lunch break at Jardin de Reuilly (you’re in France, after all).
Start at the Bastille end and meander around to the stunning Bois de Vincennes parkland. And keep an eye out along the way for pop-up stalls hawking handmade crafts or organic snacks.
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Canal de L’Ourcq
Canal de L’Ourcq doesn’t have the touristy glitz of other canals, but this is where you’ll find locals working out and chilling out. This slice of Paris shows you the city's other, cooler face and is an absolute must: artsy, trendy, and just a tad quirky.
The canal runs over 100 km from the river Ourcq in Picardie through to Place de la Bataille de Stalingrad’s Bassin de la Villette.
Start at La Rotonde Stalingrad and stroll around past the "Géode" (a 360° cinema that’s part of the Cité des Sciences) and around to Parc de la Villette, where there are live concerts and other events during the summer months.
Watch for the canal boats that transform into a bar and bookshop during summer. Seriously cool. I recommend going between March and October. It can be a bit flat during the colder, rainier months.
28—
Rue Crémieux
One of the most colorful spots in Paris, Rue Crémieux (Rue Cremieux, 75012 Paris) is a charming cobblestone street tucked away in a residential area. Snap some stunning photos of the pastel-colored houses, but remember—people actually live there, so no impromptu photo shoots on their stoop!
Originally built in the late 19th century as workers' housing, Rue Crémieux is now a coveted address in Paris. The street has a quaint, village-like vibe with its cobblestone path, small gardens, and lush greenery creeping along its walls.
It's blowing up on Instagram, so it might not stay a hidden gem for much longer. Even so, many Parisians still have no clue it exists.
29—
Bird and Flower Market
The bird and flower market on Île de la Cité is like stumbling upon a hidden gem in the middle of Paris. Located at the western tip of the island, this market has been thriving for over two centuries, and it continues to attract both locals and tourists worldwide.
As you meander through the streets of Île de la Cité, you’ll eventually come across the market bursting with colorful flowers and chirping birds. Open every day except for Mondays; locals flock to the market for its vast array of freshly cut flowers.
The vendors are incredibly passionate about their flowers and are more than happy to share tips on how to keep your new blooms looking fresh and fabulous.
But this market isn’t just about shopping; it’s also a chance to soak up some French culture. You’ll get a glimpse into locals’ daily lives as they shop for fresh produce or enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the nearby cafes. It’s a great way to experience a more local Paris.
I recommend you visit during Spring when Île de la Cité transforms with blooming Cherry Blossom trees — perfect for snapping stunning photos.
That’s a wrap! I hope you found this list useful. Happy travels!
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