Tour
8,9 km
3h40
19 audios
Text version
Oh, Paris! The City of Light. A dream destination for many. No wonder it’s the most visited city on the planet, attracting 35-40 million international tourists each year! Come find out what’s so special about it and discover why it’s been voted the world’s most admired city. This 9-kilometer tour will take you to all the iconic sights that have made the city so famous. Stroll along the grand boulevards, lose yourself in the beautiful neighborhoods, and uncover the secrets of the world’s most famous iron tower. This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the best of Paris!
Without further ado, I present to you, the Eiffel Tower! You probably know this already, but it was created by Gustave Eiffel as the centerpiece of the 1889 Paris Exposition, to celebrate the centenary of the French Revolution. Read more
Take a moment to admire the beautiful façade of the Lavirotte Building. Art Nouveau, a short-lived yet influencial artistic movement, flourished between the 19th and 20th centuries, lasting but 30 years. Read more
“You will only return home through triumphal arches”! Well, Napoleon certainly knew how to get his troops motivated. Read more
You're now walking along the beautiful Kléber Avenue, linking the Arc de Triomphe to the Trocadéro Esplanade for a little over a kilometer. It is one of the twelve avenues designed by Haussmann, all leading to the Place de l'Etoile. Read more
You're now strolling through the gardens at the foot of the Champs Élysées. They're not nearly as famous as the luxury boutiques here, but they're well worth the detour, especially if you're looking to escape the city's hustle and bustle. Read more
You've reached the Trocadéro Esplanade. Above you is the impressive Chaillot Palace, built on the hill of the same name. Few people know the history of Trocadéro. Read more
From here, you have a great view of the famous Iéna bridge. It was designed by Napoleon I to cross the Seine, linking the Military Academy to the Chaillot Hill, where he planned to build a palace for his son. He turned down all the names suggested and named the bridge “Iéna”, in memory of his victory over Prussia at the Battle of Jena Read more
You're now walking through the Champ de Mars, aka the Field of Mars. This large public garden stretches some 780 meters, from the Iéna Bridge all the way to the Military Academy. Read more
You're strolling past the Saint-Pierre du Gros Caillou Church, that has stood here, in the heart of the Gros Caillou district, since 1733. Read more
The Hôtel des Invalides, the grand building you see in the square, was the brainchild of Louis XIV, a king known for his compassion towards soldiers. Read more
You're now in front of one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris, offering a stunning view of the Grand Palais with its gilded statues in the foreground. Read more
When you think about it, we owe a lot to the World's Fairs for their contribution to the city's cultural heritage. You see, although buildings constructed for such exhibitions were meant to be short-lived, some, like these ones, were built to last. Read more
Welcome to the Place de la Concorde, the biggest one in Paris and one of the most beautiful. This historic square was created in the late 1700s at the request of Louis XV. Read more
Who would've thought that this huge Greek temple on Place de la Madeleine is actually a church? I know, it's not your typical Catholic church, with its neoclassical architecture. Read more
We're now on Rue Faubourg Saint Honoré, one of the most luxurious streets in Paris, lined with boutiques, art galleries and private mansions. More importantly, it's home to the President of... Read more
You'll now walk past the little Marigny Theater, listed as a historical monument. Its story begins way back in 1835, when a magician and physicist set up shop and performed in a tiny room... Read more
Welcome to the Champs-Élysées, the world's most beautiful avenue. This famous street stretches for two kilometers, lined with luxury stores and top-notch restaurants, all housed in... Read more
Introducing the famous Lido Cabaret, just to your right. This legendary venue first opened in 1946, and has just taken a new direction with the launch of Lido 2.0. The Accor group recently Read more
Découvrez Paris avec l’application navaway®
An interactive guide through the most beautiful streets, squares, and districts
18 fun audioguides full of historical facts, anecdotes, and legends
Experience the magic of Paris from the heights of its iconic monument
There’s just so much to see and do in Paris, a lifetime wouldn’t be enough!
We’ve created four itineraries to help you explore the city’s most famous neighborhoods and gain a better understanding of its millennia-old history. Here are a few tips to help you get your bearings in the City of Light.
Where to start? There’s the Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre, the Quai Branly Museum, the Orangerie Museum… The list goes on and on, and they’re all worth a visit. There’s truly something for everyone, so why not treat yourself to some culture?
The latter was on his way to the Paris Opera House, then located on Le Peletier Street, when several bombs exploded near his carriage! Shaken, but unharmed, the emperor decided to build a new opera house more easily accessible from the Tuileries Palace. A major architectural competition was thus launched in 1860, and 171 contenders, including some of the greatest architects of the day, answered the call. The winner, a relatively unknown 35-year-old named Charles Garnier, was given a staggering budget of 20 million gold francs, granting him unprecedented creative freedom. It was the most expensive project of its time and a direct challenge to what they called the “Haussmannian sadness.” Garnier went all out, but he did so with grace and elegance. Napoleon then asked Prefect Haussmann to lay out the Avenue de l’Opéra so he could easily get there from the Tuileries Palace. The architect took the opportunity to request that no trees be planted, to allow everyone to marvel at his work. Construction took over 15 years, and Napoleon III never even saw it finished! You see, the ground was marshy and they had to build an underground lake to withstand water pressure. Then came the budget cuts, and on top of that, the Franco-Prussian war and the Paris Commune. The building, then called the Paris Opera, finally opened its doors on January 5th, 1875, in the presence of President Mac Mahon. The story goes that Charles Garnier was not on the guest list and had to pay for his own ticket. The interior is simply spectacular, with a double marble staircase, a ceiling painted by Chagall, and an auditorium designed so that the audience has the best possible view. One thing’s for sure: since its opening, the Opera Garnier has been shrouded in myth and legend, from the unlucky number 13 to the haunting tale of the Phantom of the Opera. As for its architecture, it has served as an inspiration for many other opera houses, including the Manaus Theater in Brazil, the Lviv Opera House in Ukraine, and the iconic Sydney Opera House!
From this small square, you can marvel at the beautiful façade of the Opéra Comique. This theater, also known as the “Salle Favart,” was built in the 18th century during the reign of Louis XIV. The original structure was burnt down several times, so what you see today is a faithful 19th-century reconstruction. Don’t let the name fool you – this opera has nothing to do with comedy. It’s so-named because it’s always been home to the Opéra Comique company. That’s right, you’ll hear no jokes in there. It’s basically a genre where sung scenes are punctuated by spoken dialogue and direct addresses to the audience. If you’d like to find out more about the building’s history and architecture, be sure to book one of the guided tours organized by the opera company!
Ever wanted to step back in time to the glamorous days of the Belle Époque? A night at the Lido, Crazy Horse or Moulin Rouge is your ticket to a bygone era. Get ready for some dazzling shows and plenty of glitz and glamour. Experience the best of French culture!
Take a stroll through the Père-Lachaise Cemetery, to pay your respects to the many historical figures who are laid to rest there for all eternity. This iconic site, listed as a historical monument, is an open-air museum and one of the most famous cemeteries in the world.
If you’re looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, head for one of Paris’s beautiful parks and gardens. The Luxembourg Gardens, the Tuileries Garden, the city’s botanical garden, Monceau Park, Bagatelle Park, the Floral Park, and the Buttes-Chaumont Park are just a few of the many green spaces to explore. Here’s your chance to relax and take a breath of fresh air.
This is the most unique green space in Paris, and also the most romantic. Its steep hills offer beautiful views over the city, and its artificial lake, grottoes, waterfalls, suspension bridges, and lookout points promise a complete change of scenery!
Next, head to La Villette to immerse yourself in urban culture. Built on the site of former slaughterhouses, it’s the largest cultural park in the French capital. This 55-hectare site has it all, from modern architecture and lush green spaces to theaters, cultural venues and museums. Take a leisurely stroll along the Canal de l’Ourcq and lose yourself in the moment! This is also where you’ll find the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, the biggest science museum in Europe, the Zenith Arena, the Grande Halle Cultural Center, the Cabaret Sauvage, the Cité de la Musique, an all-thing-music complex, and the Philharmonie de Paris concert halls!
In the 60s, the south of Paris, more of an industrial area at the time, saw its buildings adorned with massive frescoes. With support from the city and local art galleries, certain areas, like the Vincent Auriol Boulevard have become open-air street art museums! Don’t miss the famous Marianne mural by Shepard Fairey, aka Obey, on 141 Boulevard Vincent-Auriol. You can also see her at the Élysée Palace! For those who don’t know, Marianne has been the national personification of the French Republic since the French Revolution.
“La Seine à vélo” is a 400-kilometer bike route along the Seine that will take you all the way to Deauville! Just know that if you reach the Normandy beaches, you’ve gone past your destination.
If you’re into antiques and vintage finds, the Saint-Ouen Flea Market is a must-visit. It’s the world’s largest antique market, spread across 7 hectares and 15 different markets. Millions of visitors come here every year to unearth treasures from bygone days. The flea market is open year-round on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.
Looking for a spooky adventure? Don’t miss out on a visit to the Paris Catacombs. Venture 20 meters below ground and wander through this subterranean world known as the Empire of Death. This former stone quarry became the world’s largest ossuary when the cemeteries were emptied in the 18th century to make room for new arrivals. Today, there are thousands of skulls and bones lining the miles of passageways right under your feet.
The city is even more magical after dark. Strolling through the illuminated streets at nightfall is a truly unforgettable experience.
Paris comes alive at night with a diverse range of bars, nightclubs and clubs to keep you entertained. Night owls, you’ll be spoilt for choice! Head to the Bastille or Oberkampf neighbourhoods, the Marais, or the Latin Quarter along Mouffetard Street, or, if you prefer, explore the upscale grand boulevards or the legendary Pigalle district.
Paris is full of hidden gems, and the best way to discover them is to simply lose yourself in its history-laden streets and explore. Each neighborhood has its own unique character, so take your time and soak it all in.
Paris is full of activities, monuments, and exhibitions. Here is our selection!
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As mythical as they may be, the Paris Catacombs continue to send shivers down visitors’ spines.
These endless galleries, lined with human bones from floor to ceiling, are somewhat of a “hidden face” of the City of Light. The corridors are steeped in satanic legends and have inspired more than one horror movie director. It must be said that…
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A six-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe, the Dadou Paris hotel is a chic and slightly bohemian place with a warm atmosphere…
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Highlights
Beautifully decorated
Very close to the Arc de Triomphe
Spa with Hammam
Excellent amenities
Things to consider
Not accessible for people with reduced mobility
Location: 10 rue Troyon, 17th arr., 75017 Paris
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Eating well in Paris is quite easy—you won’t have trouble finding something that suits your taste. But dining in the best neighborhoods at the finest addresses? That’s a bit more challenging. In a vast city like Paris, choosing the perfect spot can be tricky. Some districts stand out and climb to the top of the rankings.
Known as a lively area filled with bars, did you know that Le Marais is also famous for its gastronomy? Stroll down Rue des Rosiers and let yourself be carried away by the oriental aromas of the restaurants. If you’re hesitant about trying oriental cuisine, there is also a wide variety of traditional restaurants.
If you’re looking for a neighborhood that’s a little less touristy than Le Marais, opt for the Oberkampf district in the 11th arrondissement, not far from Bastille. Locals love dining in this area—you’ll eat well without breaking the bank!
Paris is full of neighborhoods where life is good. To have an enjoyable stay in Paris, where you sleep is very important. Of course, Paris is a city known for its romance. Several neighborhoods offer a warm, romantic, and picturesque setting.
Let’s start with the crème de la crème: the Montmartre district. The unconditional charm of this neighborhood is loved by people from all over the world. The cobblestone streets, the art galleries, the constant sound of accordions filling the air, the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur—everything is here to fall in love with this neighborhood.
Next, the Latin Quarter is another historical area of Paris that captivates tourists with its beauty and lively atmosphere. The Latin Quarter is known as the student district, especially thanks to the Sorbonne. Its peaceful setting makes it one of the favorite neighborhoods of Parisians.
The departments surrounding Paris are worth visiting, such as the Yvelines, home to the famous town of Versailles. To reach Versailles and admire its famous gardens and magnificent palace, it’s recommended to take the RER C and get off at Versailles Château – Rive Gauche. After a short ride of about forty-five minutes, you’ll find yourself just steps away from one of the most iconic sites in French history. Created by Louis XIV and a political seat for over a century, the site is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You won’t find anywhere else quite like Versailles. Its splendor leaves everyone in awe.
Choosing the right time for your stay in Paris is essential to avoid being overwhelmed by the influx of tourists, especially since Paris is the most visited capital in the world! Two seasons stand out for making the most of your trip. First, the autumn colors give Paris a unique charm. The temperatures are still pleasant, and there are fewer tourists. The other ideal season for a Parisian stay is spring. The beautiful days arrive, flowers bloom in a burst of color, the sun lingers longer in the sky, and the terraces expand… The list could go on, but I think this gives you a taste of why spring in Paris is so appealing.
The most beautiful places in the capital are not necessarily the most expensive… Quite the opposite! Most of Paris’ most iconic spots are accessible without spending a single euro. You’ll have the chance to visit the 18th arrondissement and the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, which overlooks the Montmartre neighborhood. To immerse yourself in the Parisian way of life, you can head to two well-known markets. First, the Saint-Ouen Flea Market, open on Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, is the largest antique and secondhand market in the world. Then, the covered Beauvau market will delight your taste buds, offering the finest of French gastronomy. Several gardens are accessible for a pleasant stroll, such as the Luxembourg Gardens or the Tuileries Gardens. For a more unique visit, you can head to Père-Lachaise Cemetery, where some of France’s greatest historical figures, like Jean de La Fontaine and Edith Piaf, are buried.
Paris is undoubtedly the best-connected city in France. It’s often said that all roads lead to Rome, but in France, all roads lead to Paris! No matter where you are, the train is the most convenient mode of transport to get to Paris. By choosing the most eco-friendly option, you’ll also save time. For example, it only takes about two hours to travel from Bordeaux to Paris. The same applies when traveling from Lyon.
Parking in Paris at a low cost is truly a challenge. If you’ve, by miracle, found a free parking spot, then you might want to try your luck with the lottery! Only 2.5% of parking spots are free. Aside from the evening hours between 7 PM and 9 AM, when parking is free, and all day on Sundays, parking spots are generally quite expensive. However, there are a few solutions to overcome this issue. It’s best to head to the outskirts and park your car in relay parking lots. You can leave your car there for the entire day at a lower cost and take advantage of nearby public transport options.
If there’s one stressful thing in Paris, it’s driving. The car will simply make you lose your calm, and you won’t get there any faster. The average speed in Paris doesn’t even exceed 20 km/h. With 16 metro lines covering more than 300 stations, the metro will quickly make you forget about your car. You can also get around by bike. Paris aims to reduce pollution from motor vehicles and prioritize and encourage the use of bikes for transportation, much like Amsterdam. Every year, several kilometers of bike lanes are created, making cycling one of the most suitable means of transport for getting around Paris.
There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities in the capital. For a fun day out, you can visit one of the most famous theme parks: Disneyland. Parc Astérix is also very well-known. To reach Disneyland, take the RER A to the Marne-la-Vallée / Chessy station, and for Parc Astérix, take the RER B to the Aéroport Charles De Gaulle 1 stop. For a visit within Paris itself, the Grévin Museum is a great place to visit as a family. The wax statues fascinate both young and old. For the more adventurous among you, you can also climb the 674 steps of the Eiffel Tower to reach the second floor.
The romantic side of Paris is known all over the world. For a romantic getaway, a visit to Montmartre is a must. This picturesque neighborhood is considered THE romantic spot of the capital. As a symbol, at the foot of Butte Montmartre, you’ll find the Musée de la Vie Romantique. The museum houses several paintings, sculptures, letters, and objects related to romanticism. Additionally, simply strolling through Paris is a romantic activity in itself. Walk through the 18th and 19th-century shopping galleries, wander along the banks of the Seine at twilight, or explore the stunning Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, which offers a breathtaking view of the city.
Access to the capital for people with reduced mobility is still improvable. Taking the metro is not an option; only Line 14 offers optimal accessibility for wheelchair users. However, buses and trams can accommodate you without any problem. Lifting ramps are available in every mode of transport (except the metro). To take the RER, you can request assistance from a staff member using the terminals located on the platforms and near the control lines.
As for activities, you will have no trouble finding something enjoyable. Almost all museums are equipped to ensure access to culture for people with reduced mobility.
Visiting Paris in 2 days promises to be quite an adventure! An early wake-up call is essential to make the most of the city. To start the day right, enjoy a coffee at a traditional Parisian bistro, where the charm of the past lingers through the decades. Once you’ve had your caffeine fix, take a stroll through Paris until you reach the city’s most famous museum: the Louvre. It is highly recommended to arrive around 9:30-10:00 AM to avoid long queues.
After your visit, if it’s time for lunch, head to the Marais district, located not far from the Louvre. This area is known for its lively atmosphere and excellent gastronomy. Once you’ve satisfied your appetite, visit the Hôtel des Invalides, home to the tomb of Napoleon I. To wrap up the first day, admire the sunset from the second floor of the Eiffel Tower.
On the second day, explore the Right Bank of Paris. Start with a visit to the Opéra Garnier and its magnificent palace. Then, head to the Arc de Triomphe and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before taking a walk along “the most beautiful avenue in the world,” the Champs-Élysées, lined with luxury boutiques. To end your day on a high note, watch the sunset from Montmartre after visiting the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica. If you’re looking for a lively evening, the vibrant Pigalle district is just a short walk from Montmartre.
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