Curator’s statement
The City of Lights is one of the world’s top travel destinations. As a premier hub of art, culture, fashion, and food, it’s no wonder that millions of tourists visit the French capital year after year. But with so much to see and do, it’s impossible to cram every attraction into a single visit. In this guide, I’ll give you my top recommendations for a quick weekend-length trip to Paris, showcasing some of the city’s best sights and places to visit, leaving your heart full and ready to book that return trip for more.
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Things to do in Paris
The Main Hall at the Musée D'Orsay
Musée D’Orsay
Housed in a former railway station, the Musée D’Orsay’s contains one of the world’s most complete collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, spanning from the 1840s to the 1910s. Among the highlights include works by Degas, Monet, Manet, Van Gogh, and Renoir. The museum’s blend of historic and modern architecture creates the perfect backdrop for visitors to take in the collection’s volume, beauty, and scope of work. Furthermore, the museum offers stunning views of the Seine and the Parisian skyline from the fifth-floor galleries.
Sacré Coeur de Montmarte
Perched atop a hill overlooking most of the city, Sacré Coeur is a stunning architectural marvel both inside and out. Completed in 1914, its unique design and prime location attracts visitors to admire the basilica’s soaring indoor spaces, as well as to enjoy the stunning city vistas from the sprawling hillside lawn outside the cathedral. The spot is particularly popular at sunset, with views accentuated by the golden hour light, and is close to many shops and cafes that line the streets nearby.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Tucked away in the 19th Arrondissement is the sprawling Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, a gorgeous urban oasis with sweeping views, beautiful open spaces, and some of the best people-watching in the city on a warm summer day. Originally opened in 1867 and designed to mimic the natural landscape surrounding the city, the park’s lakes, bridges, and rolling hills continue to soothe and impress city dwellers and visitors alike year after year. There’s no better place to be on a clear day than on the hill overlooking the Temple de la Sibylle near Rue Botzaris, allowing time and worries to pass you by.
La Grande Epicerie
This massive food hall, adjacent to Le Bon Marche in the 7th Arrondissement, is a temple to all things epicurean. Part grocery store, part cafe, and part specialty store, you can find just about anything your heart and stomach desires amongst the market’s many shelves, counters, and fridge cases. Do not miss the famous butter fridge, where you can find an astonishing selection of French butter from across the country (and for an extra fee, can get it vacuum sealed to fly home!). And don’t forget to check out their expansive selection of wines and Champagnes in the cellar below.
Jardin des Tuileries
Located next to the Louvre, the Jardin des Tuileries offers visitors and travelers alike a beautiful urban respite between the museums and attractions of central Paris. Originally designed as the royal gardens, the park has been open to the public for over 200 years. Aside from being adjacent to major attractions including the Louvre and Place de la Concorde, the park features small plazas and public art and is home to the Musée de l'Orangerie (part of the Musee D’Orsay). The park also housed the Olympic Flame and Cauldron from the 2024 Summer Olympics, and is currently keeping the flame alive for summer 2025.
Places to eat & drink in Paris
The legendary duck confit at Cafe Varenne
Cafe Varenne
Of the city’s many bistros, this one is my absolute favorite. Located a few blocks off Boulevard Saint-Germain on Rue Varenne, this classic bistro serves typical cafe fare (think steak tartare, French onion soup, escargots), and the best duck confit you’ll ever have.
Grandcoeur
Located in Le Marais, this modern French restaurant offers inventive takes on French classics and stellar desserts. A great spot to either center as a date night or the start of a memorable night out on the town. Do not miss out on their exceptional white chocolate cremeux!
Fana
A Michelin Bib Gourmand, this casual and creative restaurant just steps from Sacré-Cœur offers seasonal menus that focus on quality ingredients crafted with love and care. And while some familiar French classics make an appearance on this compact yet flavorful menu, the real star of the show is the dessert—in particular, a mind-blowing Paris-Brest that can’t be missed. Best of all, it’s an incredibly affordable meal that won’t leave your wallet hurting.
Le Bon Georges
Beloved by visitors and locals alike, Le Bon Georges is a Parisian institution, focusing on quality versions of famous French classics, served in a cozy and convivial atmosphere. And while the food is exceptional, don’t miss out on the opportunity to sample their incredible rhum baba. Reservations are strongly encouraged.
Comice
An absolute darling and worth the trip (as well as the expense), Comice is a rare star amongst the Michelin set. Everything is fantastic, from the warm hospitality to the elegant decor, and, of course, the incredible food and excellent wine pairings to go alongside it. The tasting menu showcases the best of what modern French cooking can do without feeling too lengthy or leaving you hungry.
Need to know
Paris has some of the best public transportation in the world, with most destinations and attractions served by Metro or RER. Skip the Ubers unless absolutely necessary and load your phone with a Navigo card in advance so you can tap your way in and out of the Metro to quickly move across town.
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