Things to do in Paris

In this edition, I will provide a concise overview of some of the must-see attractions in Paris. The details and images I've included stem from my visits during 2018 and 2022. All in all, I consider Paris to be a vibrant city with a largely amiable population. The streets appear tidy, and I did not encounter any crime or major issues. Paris ranks among my top four European cities, alongside Amsterdam, Munich, and Barcelona. To keep it brief, I won’t delve into general travel information about Paris but will focus solely on its key tourist destinations.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe stands as one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, second only to the Eiffel Tower. This monument was originally created to commemorate the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars; however, it also serves as a tribute to all fallen soldiers throughout French history. It is strategically situated at the western end of the renowned Champs Elysees Avenue, which is the heartbeat of Paris. The arch is surrounded by a busy roundabout with twelve roads converging onto it. If you're curious about how to access the center of this roundabout, there are at least two underground passageways available. Visitors can purchase tickets to ascend to the top, where stunning views of central Paris await. You might assume the height wouldn’t provide exceptional sights, but, similar to Washington DC, the majority of buildings in Paris are limited to about eight stories.

Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is a landmark that hardly requires an introduction. However, it's important to plan your visit ahead, as simply arriving without tickets is not a feasible option. If you're intending to visit Paris, try to secure your Eiffel Tower tickets as early as possible, especially if you're interested in dining there. The Tower features three observation levels. You can choose to take the stairs to the first and second levels or opt for an elevator to reach all levels. Buying tickets for the stairs is generally more affordable and convenient. Tickets for the elevator to the top are often limited and tend to sell out quickly. When I looked into tickets about a month before, the best option I found was to access the second level via the stairs. I had no success with securing a reservation at one of the restaurants.

Louvre

If my knowledge serves me correctly, the Louvre is the most frequented museum globally. Having experienced it myself, I wouldn't doubt this claim. The museum is vast, often crowded, and can be quite confusing, plus it tends to get uncomfortably warm. For such a prestigious collection of art, it would be nice if they invested more in air conditioning. No visit to the Louvre would be complete without seeing the iconic Mona Lisa. I managed to catch a glimpse without standing in the extensive line that many faced. While you're there, don't miss out on seeing the Venus de Milo and Napoleon's residence. Personally, I'm glad to have visited and checked it off my list, but I likely won't return on my next visit to Paris.

Notre Dame

I had the good fortune to see Notre Dame in 2018, just before the infamous fire. Once the renovations are completed, it will be a worthwhile stop, especially given its prime location for tourists. Honestly, I believe there are numerous churches and cathedrals across Europe that are just as impressive as Notre Dame, yet they don't receive the same level of attention. Similar to the Louvre, I'm pleased to have seen it, but it doesn’t rank high on my list for future visits.

Pere Lachaise Cemetery

I hold this cemetery in extremely high regard! I generally have an appreciation for cemeteries, and this one is, by far, my favorite anywhere in the world. In comparison, American cemeteries, except perhaps those in New Orleans, are rather dull. Each grave marker here displays both artistic beauty and a touch of humor. I'd be honored to find my final resting place here, if not for the fact that I support... green burials .

Cabaret Show

Experiencing a cabaret show in Paris is an absolute must, much like going to Las Vegas without attending a show. The iconic Moulin Rouge is the most famous venue, which I attended in 2018, and I wholeheartedly recommend it! Spending a little extra for the dinner before the show is worthwhile. Having been to the Lido de Paris and Folies Bergere in Las Vegas, I can confidently say they were only half as enjoyable as the Moulin Rouge. Keep in mind that tickets often sell out months ahead, as I discovered in 2022 when I tried to book. If you have trouble acquiring tickets for the Moulin Rouge, don’t worry; there are plenty of other cabaret options. On my last visit, I randomly selected Paradis Latin, which proved to be just as lively and passionate, albeit in a smaller and cozier setting. I'm happy to recommend that venue as well.

Catacombs of Paris

Lastly, I want to express my strong admiration for the Catacombs of Paris. This site is where the remains of six million individuals were moved from cemeteries that the city repurposed for other purposes. The bones are artistically displayed along miles of passageways. The area accessible to the public is only a small portion of the entire network. It’s a poignant experience to be surrounded by the remains of countless forgotten individuals; I often feel like a mere ant in a vast colony. Like many other top attractions in Paris, I highly advise purchasing your tickets well ahead of time, which can be done online.

I trust you found this brief overview of Paris enjoyable. Unless a more compelling idea comes to mind, I intend to share my experiences from Munich next week.

Written by: Michael Shackleford