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Unearth Paris's top attractions and activities, perfect for friends and family. Funbooker features an extensive list of over a thousand enjoyable experiences in Paris and its surroundings.
Planning on heading to Paris for your next getaway? Forget everything you think you know about the French capital! While the city is true to its reputation in many regards – it is indeed an infinitely romantic destination – , it has much more to offer than first meets the eye.
We, at Funbooker, have curated a selection of one-of-a-kind experiences that are sure to amaze and delight the most seasoned travelers: from helicopter rides over the City of Lights – capturing from a bird’s-eye view the myriad of architectural gems down below – to whimsical and adventurous treasure hunts uncovering the city’s lesser know marvels and secret spots.
Not to mention vintage car tours roaming the capital’s picturesque streets. One thing is certain: Paris isn’t a city to be ‘visited’, it is a city to be ‘experienced’. Follow the guide!
Afraid of missing out on Paris’s must-visit attractions? Fear not! Here is your one and only bucket list to visit the French capital. From ancient monuments to modern gems, you’ll find here everything you need to plan your Parisian getaway. Let’s get cracking, shall we?
Well… this first one probably won’t come as a surprise! Built in the late 19th century by world-renowned engineer Gustave Eiffel to mark a hundred years since the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower definitely ranks very high on the list of Parisian top tourist attractions.
With a height of 330 meters (1,083 ft), the Eiffel Tower, nestled in the iconic Champ-de-Mars, offers breathtaking views of the French capital. A Champagne Bar on the top floor provides the perfect spot to take in the panorama while sipping on a glass of bubbly.
Standing tall on the Place Charles de Gaulle, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Champs Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe is yet another of the city’s top attractions.
While construction was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806 to celebrate the French military triumphs, completion of the construction works stretched over decades.
By the time the Arc de Triomphe was inaugurated in 1836, Napoleon was long gone from power. Famous for its monumental dimensions and its stunning architecture, the monument is most definitely a must-visit.
We highly recommend visiting the Arc de Triomphe at 6:30 pm so you can catch a glimpse of the rekindling ceremony of the Eternal Flame at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
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Mona Lisa awaits! Nestled in a former royal residence by the Seine, the Louvre is one of the most visited museums in the world… and rightly so! The museum is home to collections of over 35,000 masterpieces spread across 9 miles of galleries, stretching from Antiquity to the late 18th century.
Highlights of the visit include Leonardo da Vinci’s famous Mona Lisa, a selection of ancient sarcophagi – as well as an Egyptian mummy – , the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the Venus de Milo, Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, Géricault’s Raft of the Medusa… and of course, the signature glass pyramid!
Next stop: the Sacré-Coeur Basilica! Nestled in the picture-postcard Montmartre district, this iconic sanctuary was built between the late 19th and the early 20th centuries by the Church as an act of atonement in a context of political and military unrest.
With its immaculate façade and stunning mosaics, the Basilica soon became a symbol of the French capital, epitomizing the city’s romantic spirit and bohemian flair. Be warned, though: you’ll have to put in some effort and climb the 200 steps leading up to the Basilica to enjoy the view… (or you can simply take the funicular)!
The muse behind Victor Hugo’s literary classic may have taken a blow – it was severely damaged in a fire in 2019 – , but it is still standing! The good news: while the cathedral construction spanned almost 2 centuries, it looks like the renovation works might only take 5 or 6 years! Notre Dame is set to reopen in 2024 or 2025 at the latest… fingers crossed!
In the meantime, you can still head to the Île de la Cité to admire the cathedral from a distance. Even now, it is still quite mesmerizing.
While the French very much enjoy giving their monuments poetic sobriquets, they were quite straight to the point – if not humble – with this one and simply nicknamed the Champs Elysées ‘the world’s most elegant avenue’!
Spanning 1.25 miles from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysées are a shopaholic’s dream come true! Hard to believe that the iconic avenue was initially designed by the famous landscapist André Le Nôtre as a quaint and picturesque retreat. Lined with chic boutiques and restaurants, it is quite literally one of the busiest spots in the French capital!
A stone’s throw from the Louvre, the Palais Royal was once the residence of an array of illustrious figures, not least of whom were Cardinal Richelieu, Louis XIII, and Anne of Austria.
Commissioned in 1628, the palace – which is surrounded by beautiful gardens – is a stunning example of classical architecture. It is now home to the iconic Comédie-Française, an illustrious theatrical institution. Head for the Court of Honor to have a peek of Buren’s Columns.
In need of a serene retreat after hours roaming the French capital? Look no further! The Luxembourg Gardens are a Parisian’s favorite for a leisurely stroll away from the city’s hustle and bustle. Commissioned in 1612 by the famous regent queen Marie de Medicis, the gardens are an urban oasis featuring traditional French as well as English garden designs. Nestled in the gardens, you’ll find the Luxembourg Palace, home to the French Senate.
Head to the vibrant Marais district to discover another side of the French capital! This historic area, renowned for its elegant hôtels particuliers, has become quite the bohemian hotspot, brimming with trendy boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.
It is also the Parisian stronghold of the Jewish and LGBT communities. Highlights include: the stunning Place des Vosges, one of Paris’s oldest squares; the Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market; as well as the Picasso and Carnavalet Museums.
With their emblematic booksellers and quaint cafés, the banks of the Seine, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991, are a local’s go-to for sunny strolls and Sunday picnics.
Spanned by historic bridges – the Pont Neuf, the Pont des Arts, the Pont Alexandre III – and lined with iconic monuments, the riverside is truly a must-stop for any traveler looking to uncover the allure of the City of Lights.
Looking to get off the beaten track? Head for the Pigalle district! With its historic cabarets, trendy concert venues, and vibrant nightlife, the area – home to the world-famous Moulin Rouge and its iconic French Cancan dancers – is definitely worlds apart from the French capital’s polished and elegant avenues. Be warned, though: the area may not be suited for kids. Often dubbed Paris’s ‘Red Light District’, Pigalle is notorious for its countless sex shops…
While Paris’s historic monuments, Haussmannian avenues, and quaint streets may paint the portrait of a city deeply rooted in the past, the French capital is also very much looking to the future.
With its four iconic glass towers, the Esplanade of the François Mitterrand Library – named after the French President who led the country throughout the 1980s – is a prime example of the French capital’s modern architectural achievements.
Nestled in the 1st arrondissement, just steps from the Louvre and the Palais Royal, Place Vendôme has become the epicenter of French luxury. Home to exclusive jewelers, the opulent square – designed by famous architect Jules Hardouin Mansart in the 17th century and lined with elegant hôtels particuliers – , also boasts one of Paris’s most luxurious hotels: the Ritz. Looming over the square, the Vendôme Column is a tribute to Napoleon Bonaparte’s military triumphs.
A stone’s throw from the bustling Grands Boulevards, the Opéra Garnier (often referred to as the Palais Garnier) is a stunning example of neo-baroque architecture. With its grand marble staircase, its gilded statues, and its sumptuous crystal chandelier, the monument ranks high on the list of the French capital’s must-sees.
Unanimously considered one of the world’s most beautiful opera houses, it is also famous for its elusive phantom, who inspired Gaston Leroux’s emblematic novel ‘The Phantom of the Opera’.
Nestled in the 15th arrondissement, the Montparnasse Tower is yet another symbol of Parisian modernity.
While this 690-foot-tall tower has now become one of the city’s most emblematic monuments, it was first met with a certain disapproval – if not outright opposition – when it was inaugurated in the 1970s, as many Parisians believed its modern aesthetic clashed with the timeless elegance of the French capital.
Next stop: the legendary Latin Quarter! The Panthéon was originally designed as a church dedicated to Paris’s patron saint – Sainte-Geneviève – and was later converted during the French Revolution into a mausoleum honoring the ‘Great Men’ of the French Nation. Behind its iconic facade blending Classical and Gothic inspirations, you’ll find the resting places of some of the country’s most illustrious historical figures, among whom are Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo and Marie Curie.
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In need of a refreshing break after exploring the city from top to bottom? Head to the Jardin des Plantes, in the 5th arrondissement. Designed in the 17th century as a botanical garden for medicinal plants, the Jardin des Plantes has remained a center of learning ever since its creation. It is now home to the Natural History Museum, the fascinating Grand Gallery of Evolution, as well as a series of lush greenhouses showcasing plants from all over the world.
Nestled in the 16th arrondissement alongside the River Seine, opposite the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro Gardens offer breathtaking views of the emblematic Iron Lady (they are the go-to spot for taking postcard-worthy photos of the monument).
While its orderly pathways are a favorite among tourists and locals alike for a lovely stroll away from the city’s hustle and bustle, the gardens also house several tourist attractions, including the Aquarium de Paris and the Palais de Chaillot.
Originally built in the 14th century – and later rebuilt in the late 19th century – Paris City Hall stands as one of the capital’s most iconic landmarks. Behind its stunning neo-Renaissance facade, the historic monument houses the city institutions and features several exhibition spaces that regularly host retrospectives about the French capital’s extensive history.
Ready to step back in time? Head to the Tuileries Garden, the French capital’s oldest French-style garden, for a journey to 16th-century Paris. Commissioned by Catherine de Medici – not to be confused with Marie de Medici, who ordered the construction of the Luxembourg Gardens… – the Tuileries Garden may very well be the most beautiful garden in the City of Lights.
Adorned with sculptures by renowned artists including Rodin and Maillol, the garden is home to two sumptuous, albeit lesser-known, museums: the Musée de l’Orangerie and the Musée du Jeu de Paume.
Ready to spice up your getaway to the French capital? At Funbooker, we’ve curated a selection of one-of-a-kind experiences that are sure to sprinkle your Parisian stay with a pinch of adventure. Follow the guide!
Ready to discover the City of Light from a whole new perspective? Hop on board a hot air balloon and rise 500 feet above the French capital to enjoy breathtaking views over the city’s rooftops and iconic monuments – among which the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré Coeur, the Seine, and the Montparnasse Tower – from a bird’s-eye view!
Calling all wine enthusiasts! Whether you’re a novice looking to dip your toes into the world of wine tasting or a seasoned expert interested in refining your mastery of the French terroirs, we’ve selected the crème de la crème of wine-tasting workshops in Paris. From grape varieties to food and wine pairing, you’ll learn everything there is to know about oenology, guided by a sommelier.
Ahoy! Embark on a sightseeing cruise to sail down the Seine River and the Saint Martin Canal tranquil waters and enjoy panoramic views of the capital’s most iconic landmarks – the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and more – standing along the riverbanks. From amphibious bus adventures to romantic gourmet cruises and ‘Happy Hour’ cruises, there’s definitely something for everyone!
Be warned, you may have to pop a button! Paris’s Chocolate Museum is heaven on earth for gourmets and chocolate lovers (and the devil’s den for dieters). With delicious tastings, hands-on exhibits, and chocolate-making workshops, the Chocolate Museum invites visitors to find out everything there is to know about chocolate, from chocolate history and ancient rituals to the modern chocolate-making process. In a nutshell: yum!
Ready to uncover the trade secrets behind French perfume craftsmanship? At Funbooker, we’ve selected the finest workshops in Paris, inviting participants to learn everything there is to know about the elegant art of perfume-making. The best part: you’ll get to take home a handmade fragrance that is uniquely yours!
Ready to put your wits to the test? At Funbooker, we’ve curated a selection of the city’s best escape games, including some outdoor options that’ll take you on a fun adventure throughout the streets of the French capital. Team up to solve enigmas and collect the clues you’ll need to fulfill your quest. On your marks!
Ready to explore continents without even having to leave Paris? A stone’s throw from the Iron Lady, the Quai Branly Museum is home to collections of over 300,000 ethnic art pieces from arts and civilizations from Africa, Asia, Oceania and the Americas.
If you don’t have time to visit, we highly recommend walking by, if just to have a peek at the stunning architecture – the museum was designed by famous architect Jean Nouvel – and have a quick stroll in the lush gardens.
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In need of a refreshing break with the family after exploring Paris top to bottom? Head to the 15th arrondissement, where you’ll find Aquaboulevard, Europe’s largest urban water park. Spread over 7,000 m², the park includes countless attractions and water activities suited to all ages, including wave pools, slides, a wakebox for indoor water skiing, a lazy river and an artificial sandy beach!
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Looking for a grand romantic gesture to make your Parisian escapade truly memorable? Imagine hopping into a vintage car to take your significant other on a scenic tour through Paris’s quaint and picturesque streets. You’ll travel back in time and cozy up on the plush seats of a classic French automobile – like the emblematic Citroën 2CV – while discovering the city’s historic monuments as well as lesser-known marvels and secret spots.
Admire Paris’s emblematic landmarks and Versailles’s iconic Palace from a whole new perspective! You’ll hop on a helicopter for a 25-minute flight over the French capital and discover some of the city’s famous monuments from a bird’s-eye view – the Eiffel Tower, the Montparnasse Tower, the Longchamp Racecourse, the Bois de Boulogne and the Trocadéro – before landing in Versailles for an hour-long break including some refreshments. It’ll be the perfect occasion to chat with your pilot who’ll be happy to teach you one or two things about flying. After an hour, you’ll hop back on the helicopter to fly back to Paris!
Looking for adventure? Gear up and embark on a one-of-a-kind journey through the streets of the French capital! You’ll hop on an electric quad – both eco-friendly and easy to maneuver – and join your guide in exploring some of Paris’s top attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Champs Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe… Ready, set, go!
Attention, food lovers! What better way to discover French gastronomy than by joining a Parisian food tour? At Funbooker, we’ve curated a selection of the most delicious tours in the city. You’ll follow an experienced tour guide through the picture-postcard streets of the French capital, meeting local artisans passionate about sharing their culinary secrets and tasting a selection of exquisite French delicacies.
If you believe virtual reality is just for teenage nerds and gaming dorks, think again! At Funbooker, we’ve unearthed the perfect virtual reality activity for curious visitors exploring the French capital: FlyView. You’ll get to choose between four spectacular experiences: flying over Paris with a 360 view from the sky, a virtual reality tour exploring secret and inaccessible spots in the French capital, a virtual reality journey to the heart of Ancient Egypt and a virtual reality tour of Notre-Dame before and after the fire. In a nutshell: it’s mind-blowing!
Ready to get your adrenaline pumping? Experience the exhilaration of free-falling without hopping on a plane! How is it even possible? With a state-of-the-art indoor skydiving simulator: a giant glass tunnel with airflow. The activity is safe and accessible for the whole family! An instructor will take you through the whole process, give you a quick security briefing, help you gear up and teach you how to fly your body.
When exploring the French capital, you’ll soon discover that the French sure know how to indulge! While the country may be the world’s wine capital, of course, the French have also mastered the delicate art of cocktail-making! Want to uncover the secrets of the best mixologists in Paris? At Funbooker, we’ve selected the crème de la crème of cocktail-making workshops in the French capital. Ready to learn from the master indulgers?
Tired of traditional, uneventful guided tours? We’ve got you covered! At Funbooker, we’ve curated a selection of the best scavenger hunts in Paris: the perfect activity to unravel the city’s rich history while having a blast! Solve enigmas, chase clues, and uncover the city’s secret spots. What better way to keep the whole family entertained while exploring the French capital!
Fun fact: although Salvador Dali was born and raised in Spain, his journey as an artist – much like that of his fellow countryman, Picasso – is inextricably tied to France.
Nestled in Montmartre – known as the artists’ haven in the French capital – the Dali Museum is a tribute to the Spanish artist’s long and prolific career. Recently renovated, the museum boasts an impressive collection of over 300 masterpieces – including paintings, sculptures, engravings, objects of all kinds and furniture.
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What if you could bring home a delicious selection of secret French recipes? At Funbooker, we’ve curated the best cooking classes in Paris, so you can learn from the city’s best chefs! Whether you’re a novice interested in dipping your toes in French gastronomy or a seasoned cook looking to master advanced techniques, there’s something for everyone. Grab aprons: ready, set, cook!
Nestled in the Trocadéro Gardens, a stone’s throw from the Eiffel Tower, the Paris Aquarium invites visitors to delve into ocean depths without ever leaving the French capital! Boasting over 10,000 fish, from colorful clown fish to fearsome sharks, the aquarium showcases a diversity of marine habitats, taking visitors on a spectacular journey throughout the world’s oceans. Entrance tickets grant access to all exhibitions as well as interactive workshops, activities and live shows.
Nestled in La Villette Park, north of Paris, the City of Sciences & Industry is heaven on earth for curious minds of all ages! Boasting countless interactive exhibits and hands-on workshops, the innovative museum explores the fundamentals of science – including climate, genes, mathematics, the brain, etc. – in fun and engaging ways! Don’t miss the state-of-the-art Planetarium, which takes visitors on a fascinating journey to the outer reaches of the universe!
