11 Things You Must Do in Paris, France Any Time of the Year

There are endless things to do while visiting Paris, France and I’m sure this list barely even scratches the surface but I only want to suggest things I’ve tried (and actually enjoyed) myself. After visiting Paris twice in the past year, once in the Fall and then again in late Summer, both for four days, I now feel that with a little over a weeks worth of experiences under my belt I can share my recommendations with you! This list is in no order because ranking these activities would have been impossible. It will all depend on the type of vacation you’re wanting to have!

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Stroll around the Luxembourg Garden

Located near the Montparnasse area, I recommend grabbing a croissant and coffee, then spend a morning strolling around the tree-lined gardens and surrounding streets. It’s so beautiful and peaceful in this area of Paris.

Visit the Pantheon

Just a short walk from the Luxembourg Garden, you may as well kill two birds with one stone. The Pantheon is an 18th-century mausoleum that houses a lot of notable French citizens and the building itself is old world, imposing and beautiful.

Have a sunset picnic on the lawn of the Eiffel tower.

This may be harder in the Winter, I’ll admit it, but not impossible. It sounds cliche because it sort of is, but there’s a reason everyone does it-it’s magical! It’s totally legal to pop one open so don’t worry about drinking in public. Stroll down a nearby street market and pick up some wine, cheese, and fruit then plant your butts on the lawn and toast to the good life.

Pro tip: Forget to pick up alcohol or a bottle opener? No worries, there are people walking up and down the lawn selling alcohol at all times of the day that can help you out.

Watch the Eiffel tower sparkle at night.

You can definitely do this from a ton of places but I’m here to recommend two that stood out to me. First is from the Pont de Alexandre bridge, being over the water and seeing the Eiffel light up in the distance is unmatched. It’s just so romantic. Next up is from the front patio at L’Avenue, eat (or drink) here at night and watch the Eiffel light up throughout dinner. Makes for a beautiful dinner setting. This is a pricier restaurant, great for a special occasion or last night dinner.

Walk along the river bank.

Left bank, right bank, you can’t go wrong. I suggest walking most places (unless hopping on and off the metro for long trips) it just gives you a more personal perspective of a city, and it’s easier to pop in and out of interesting sites.

Hangout in the Latin Quarter

Such a non-stuffy vibe in this part of town, there are universities, lots of book stores, sidewalk cafes, and fun dive bars. Plus, it’s right near the Seine. Check out La Baguetterie for live music and great charcuterie boards.

Visit the Arc de Triomphe

This is a beautiful photo of this monument but even this photo doesn’t do it any justice, it’s a must-if you don’t do anything else, go here. You won’t regret it! Go super early if you want a photo without a ton of people around you.

Go to Laduree and Shop along Champs-Elysees

Did you even go to Paris if you don’t stop in to Laduree on Av. des Champs-Elysees and eat macarons? No, the answer is no, so go! Just be prepared for a long line because everyone who’s anyone knows this is the spot to go in Paris.

Tour Historic Churches like Sacre-Coeur or Notre Dame

We got to Sacre-Coeur right after sunset and the entire experience was just moving. I highly recommend a tour, religious or not. My first trip to Paris I didn’t stop by Notre Dame and then the fire happened and I was completely devastated that I had potentially missed my chance to see this historic place in person. Second trip rolls around and you know I had to go first thing, it’s under construction right now, getting restored but still worth stopping by.

Dinner at Restaurant Le Train Bleu

There’s no shortage of good food in Paris but this restaurant is so much more than just good food. It’s delicious yes but also, the service was impeccable and the venue itself is completely breathtaking. Plus, it’s actually not that expensive.

Shop at the Galleries Lafayette

So this photo was actually taken outside while I was waiting on my Uber and is not of this impressive shopping mall but trust me when I say that this mall rat has never been inside of a more beautiful mall in my entire life. I went 3 out of 4 of the days I was in Paris the first time, mostly because my luggage was lost but also because having the lost luggage was the best excuse to keep going back.

These were some of my favorite things during my two trips to Paris, I hope I’ve given you a little bit of inspiration for your trip! Check out my Nice, France Travel Guide too if you’d like some tips on other great places in France!

Didn’t see your favorite place or thing to do listed above? Comment below so I can check it out next time and stay tuned to see if it makes my next list!

Xx Sylvia