Paris is one of our favorite places that we’ve been fortunate to multiple times. It also serves as a base to visit other countries by train that I will share in future blogs like, Belgium, Amsterdam, England, Germany, Luxembourg … Switzerland is a bit longer at over 4 hours, but it’s a great trip going through wine country in France.
You can see Paris in four or five days, if you only plan on visiting once … there’s so much to see. If you want to delve into the city's art, culture, food, and history, or include day trips to Versailles or other areas, I recommend seven days or more.
I’ve listed the highlights that we enjoyed the most in Paris. As a musician, I also wanted to visit Jim Morrisons gravesite, so for you rock fans, I’ve included in my to see list below.
What to See While on Vacation in Paris, France
Paris, the City of Light, is a dream destination for travelers around the world. With its rich history, world-class art, romantic atmosphere, and mouthwatering cuisine, the French capital offers a little something for everyone. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are the top must-see attractions in Paris.
1. Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the iconic Eiffel Tower. Whether you admire it from the ground or ascend to one of its viewing platforms, the tower offers panoramic views of the city. For a truly magical experience, visit at night when it sparkles every hour on the hour.
2. Louvre Museum
Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the Louvre is the world’s largest art museum. Even if you're not an art aficionado, the grandeur of the building and its impressive collection are worth the visit.
3. Notre-Dame Cathedral
Though still under restoration following the 2019 fire, the Notre-Dame Cathedral remains a symbol of Parisian Gothic architecture. You can still admire its façade, and nearby spots like the Seine River and Shakespeare and Company bookstore add charm to the area.
4. Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Perched on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is a historic neighborhood that once inspired artists like Picasso and Van Gogh. The Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur offers some of the best views of Paris, and the cobbled streets below are filled with cafes, galleries, and street artists.
5. Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
Stroll along the tree-lined Champs-Élysées for a blend of shopping, dining, and people-watching. It leads to the Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb to the top for another stunning city vista.
6. Seine River Cruise
A boat ride along the Seine offers a unique perspective of Paris. Many of the city’s landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre, are beautifully visible from the water, especially in the evening.
7. Palace of Versailles (Day Trip)
Just outside Paris, the Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its opulent architecture, the Hall of Mirrors, and vast gardens. It's a must-see for history lovers.
8. Latin Quarter and Luxembourg Gardens
Explore the vibrant Latin Quarter, home to the Sorbonne University, historic cafes, and bookshops. Nearby, the Luxembourg Gardens offer a peaceful retreat with fountains, statues, and flowerbeds.
9. Sainte-Chapelle
Often overshadowed by larger attractions, Sainte-Chapelle is a hidden gem known for its stunning stained-glass windows. Located near Notre-Dame, it’s a must-see for lovers of medieval architecture.
10. Le Marais
This trendy district is a mix of old-world charm and modern Parisian flair. It’s known for its boutique shopping, art galleries, and delicious falafel. Don’t miss Place des Vosges, one of the oldest and most beautiful squares in Paris.
Tips for Visiting Paris:
- Learn a few basic French phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
- Use the Metro for easy and affordable transportation.
- Try local cuisine, including croissants, escargot, coq au vin, and of course, macarons.
How to Visit Jim Morrison’s Grave
Visiting Jim Morrison's grave offers a poignant experience, reflecting on the life and legacy of a rock icon in one of Paris's most historic and serene settings.
To reach Père Lachaise Cemetery, you can take the Paris Métro to the Père Lachaise station. From there, exit onto Boulevard de Ménilmontant and proceed straight ahead to the cemetery's main entrance. Once inside, Morrison's grave is in Division 6, which is near the main entrance . It's advisable to obtain a map of the cemetery at the entrance or download one beforehand to help navigate to his gravesite.
What to Expect at the Gravesite
Jim Morrison's grave has become a pilgrimage site for fans worldwide. The headstone bears his full name, "James Douglas Morrison," along with the Greek inscription ΚΑΤΑ ΤΟΝ ΔΑΙΜΟΝΑ ΕΑΥΤΟΥ, which translates to "True to his own spirit" . Due to past instances of vandalism, the grave is now fenced off, you can view it from a short distance.
Visiting Hours and Tips
- Opening Hours: Père Lachaise Cemetery is open daily. From mid-March to early November, it's open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; from early November to mid-March, it closes at 5:30 PM.
- Admission: Entry to the cemetery is free of charge.
- Other Notable Graves: While visiting, you might also want to see the graves of other famous individuals buried there, such as Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf, and Frédéric Chopin.
Let’s Talk Food!
Paris is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from rich, traditional French cuisine to cutting-edge modern gastronomy. Here's a guide to the must-try types of food while you're in the City of Light:
Classic French Pastries
- Croissants & Pain au Chocolat – Flaky, buttery, and perfect for breakfast.
- Macarons – Light almond meringue cookies with creamy filling (try Ladurée or Pierre Hermé).
- Éclairs & Tarte au Citron – Beautifully crafted and delicious desserts found in any good patisserie.
Breads & Cheese
- Baguette Tradition – Crisp crust, chewy interior, and often enjoyed with butter or cheese.
- French Cheeses – Try Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, Comté, and more. Stop by a fromagerie for a tasting.
Bistro Classics
- Coq au Vin – Chicken braised in wine with mushrooms and bacon.
- Boeuf Bourguignon – Slow-cooked beef stew in red wine, often with carrots and pearl onions.
- Duck Confit – Tender duck leg cooked in its own fat, usually served with crispy potatoes.
Iconic Starters
- Escargots de Bourgogne – Snails cooked with garlic, butter, and parsley.
- French Onion Soup – Rich beef broth with caramelized onions, topped with cheese and toasted bread.
Seafood
- Steak Frites or Moules Frites – Mussels or steak served with crispy fries.
- Oysters – Fresh from Normandy or Brittany, often eaten raw with lemon or mignonette sauce.
Desserts
- Crème Brûlée – Creamy custard with a caramelized sugar top.
- Profiteroles – Cream-filled pastry puffs drizzled with chocolate sauce.
- Crêpes – Sweet or savory, these thin pancakes are a must. Try one from a Montparnasse crêperie.
Café Culture
- Café Crème – Similar to a latte, best enjoyed at a sidewalk café.
- Croque Monsieur – A toasted ham and cheese sandwich, sometimes with a fried egg on top (then it's a Croque Madame).
Market Snacks & Street Food
- Rotisserie Chicken – Often sold with herbed potatoes in local markets.
- Falafel in Le Marais – Especially from L’As du Fallafel, it’s legendary.
- Crepes or galettes – Easily found from street vendors, with Nutella or ham & cheese fillings.
A Few of our Favorite Cafes
Café Procope
Angelina
La Maison Rose
Café De Flore
Hotels to Consider Paris:
Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris
Ritz Paris
Hôtel Plaza Athénée
Final Thoughts:
A trip to Paris offers a perfect blend of culture, history, romance, and cuisine. Highlights often include visiting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Strolling along the Seine River, exploring charming neighborhoods like Montmartre and Le Marais, and enjoying French pastries at local cafés add to the authentic Parisian experience. Travelers often indulge in world-renowned cuisine, from fine dining to cozy bistros. The city’s art, fashion, and architecture leave a lasting impression, making it a dream destination for many.
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