While planning our trip, I researched all the top Paris favorites and must-see attractions – from iconic landmarks to beautiful neighborhoods. But what made our visit even more memorable were the experiences that surprised us the most, a few of which quickly became our own personal Paris favorites.
We knew we’d love seeing the big sights like the Eiffel Tower and The Louvre, but some of our favorite experiences were the ones we hadn’t fully planned for.
A simple Seine River cruise, which we almost treated as a “maybe if we have time,” ended up being one of the highlights of our trip. Seeing landmarks – like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, and the famous Paris bridges – from the water with open views along the riverbanks – was really beautiful and one of the best perspectives in the city.
Another surprise was realizing at the Arc de Triomphe – you can actually go inside and climb to the roof top (ticket required). The views from above, looking out over Paris and down the Champs-Élysées, were incredible and ended up being one of our favorite viewpoints.
If you’re planning a trip and want a mix of must-see attractions, best views in Paris, and a few experiences that might surprise you, here are my personal Paris favorites to help inspire your itinerary.
Eiffel Tower Views from the Seine River Cruise
(Best Views in Paris from the Water)
Seeing the Eiffel Tower from the Seine was easily one of our favorite experiences in Paris. While the tower is impressive from the ground, viewing it from the water gives you a full, unobstructed perspective.
A Seine River cruise is one of the best ways to take in multiple landmarks at once – including bridges, historic buildings, and the Paris skyline.
Tip: Book a sunset cruise for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
If your boat has open deck seating, it can get chilly on the river, especially in the evening in spring and fall.
The Louvre & Winged Victory
(Must-See Paris Attraction)
Visiting the Louvre, which was once a palace, was one of the experiences we were really looking forward to, and is a must for any first-time trip to Paris.
While many head straight for the Mona Lisa, one of the most memorable sights for me was the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Positioned at the top of a grand staircase, it’s one of the most striking displays in the museum.
We booked our semi-private Louvre tour through Viator that highlighted some of the key exhibits and lasted about 3 hours. Our tour guide made it an excellent experience even though it was a busy morning at the museum. (This post contains affiliate links. If you book through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)
Tips: Use the Carrousel entrance to the Louvre or book a small-group tour to save time. Note also that the Louvre is closed on Tuesdays.
See my related post What Surprised Me Most About the Crown Jewels In London and Paris.
Best Views of the skyline
(Best Skyline Views in Paris)
On our trip we had heard about the great views of the Paris Skyline from the Montparnasse Tower observation deck and we were able to get tickets online.
From the top (56th floor), we had panoramic views of Paris with the Eiffel Tower in the skyline – which makes it one of the best photo spots in the city.
2026 travel update: The Montparnasse Tower is scheduled to close in March 2026 for a multi-year renovation project, according to its official website, so if it’s on your list, be sure to check the latest updates. In the meantime, keep reading for more of the best views in Paris.
Arc de Triomphe Views
(Top Things to Do in Paris for First-Time Visitors)
When visiting the iconic Arc de Triomphe – do not cross in the busy traffic. Use the pedestrian tunnels that lead to the base of the monument.
And, the Arc de Triomphe is not just a monument – you can get tickets to go inside and climb the winding staircase to the roof top. It does have an elevator that’s for visitors with disabilities or health conditions and seniors.
From the top of the Arc, you’ll get incredible views down the Champs-Élysées and of the Paris skyline with the Eiffel Tower in view.
Tip: Go at sunset for golden light and fewer crowds.
Eiffel Tower at Night
(Paris Must-See Experience)
Seeing the Eiffel Tower at night is something you don’t want to miss. After dark, it lights up – and at the top of every hour, it sparkles for five minutes. It’s one of the most magical moments in Paris. One of the best places to see it is from the Trocadéro which is across from the Eiffel Tower.
Best Free Views in Paris from the Bridges
(Hidden Gems & Photo Spots)
Some of the best views in Paris are completely free.
Walking across bridges like Pont des Arts gives you beautiful views of the Seine, the Louvre, and the city skyline – especially at night when everything is lit up.
This ended up being one of our favorite simple experiences.
Why a Seine River Cruise Is Worth It
(Paris Travel Tip)
A Seine River cruise is one of the easiest ways to see many of the top Paris attractions in one experience.
You’ll pass landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and historic bridges – all from a relaxing vantage point.
Tip: Evening cruises offer the most scenic views, especially as the city lights come on.
Getting Around Paris with the Metro
(Essential Paris Travel Tip)
Getting around Paris is very easy thanks to the metro system.
- Purchase a Navigo Découverte pass for unlimited rides
- Use apps like Google Maps or Citymapper
- Be prepared for stairs in many stations, like the Abbesses metro station in Montmartre – the deepest station that is comparable to climbing 10-15 floors (and has beautiful murals!)
Once you use the Metro a couple of times, it becomes very simple to navigate.
Where to Stay in Paris (Best Area for First-Time Visitors)
We stayed in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area, and it was the perfect location for a first trip. We were about a 10-minute walk to the riverbank and bridges.
From here, we could walk to:
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- The Louvre
- Musée d’Orsay
- The Seine River
It’s a great mix of charm, convenience, and central location.
A Few More Memorable Paris Experiences
In addition to our top favorites, there were a few other places we visited that really stood out and are definitely worth adding to your itinerary if you have time.
Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
Exploring the streets of Montmartre felt like stepping into a different side of Paris. The winding roads, small cafés, and artist corners give it a unique charm.
At the top, you’ll find Sacré-Cœur Basilica, where the views overlooking the city are incredible. If you walk behind the Basilica, there’s a beautiful, quiet park with benches and trees.
Tip: Take the funicular train up to the Basilica instead of climbing all the stairs. Then you can walk back down through the winding streets of Montmartre – like the picturesque Rue de l’Abreuvoir.
Palais Garnier (Paris Opera House)
The architecture inside Palais Garnier is stunning – from the grand staircase to the ornate ceilings.
The opulent Hall of Mirrors in the grand foyer of the opera house is similar to the Palace of Versailles.
The opera house was also the inspiration and setting for The Phantom of the Opera, which makes visiting feel even more special if you know the story.
Père Lachaise Cemetery
One of the more unique places we visited was Père Lachaise Cemetery. It’s peaceful, historic, and the final resting place of many notable figures. Even if you’re not visiting specific graves, it’s an interesting place to wander and take in a quieter side of Paris.
Notre Dame (Exterior Visit)
Although you may not always be able to go inside, seeing Notre-Dame Cathedral from the outside is still worth it. The architecture and detail are incredible, and the setting along the Seine adds to the experience.
Sainte-Chapelle (Go Early!)
The stained glass inside Sainte-Chapelle is one of the most beautiful sights in Paris.
Tip: Book a morning entry ticket to beat the crowds.
Funny story: We had tickets for the morning right when it opened, and after going through security, the sign in the courtyard pointing to the chapel hadn’t been set up yet. It actually pointed towards the Palais de Justice in the same complex, so we accidentally walked inside there first (as did a few other tourists!) Thankfully, a kind staff member pointed us in the right direction, and we made it to the chapel shortly after. On the way back, we noticed the sign had been corrected!
Walking Along the Seine & Île de la Cité
Some of our favorite moments weren’t planned at all – just walking along the Seine River and around Île de la Cité.
Between the bridges, historic buildings, and views around every corner, it’s one of the best ways to experience the city at a slower pace.
Final Thoughts on My Paris Favorites
Paris is full of incredible sights, and even beyond the major landmarks, it’s the mix of neighborhoods, views, and unexpected moments that make the trip unforgettable.
If you’re planning your first visit, focusing on a mix of must-see attractions and the best views in Paris is a great way to experience the city.
