10 unmissable Paris landmarks and historical sights

Historic landmarks in Paris continue to attract visitors worldwide, making France's capital the most-visited city on the planet. There are so many things to do in Paris, like visit lavish palaces, Gothic cathedrals, and, of course, the Eiffel Tower — France's iconic national symbol.

There are plenty of unmissable historical places in Paris, including Notre Dame, the Louvre Museum, and the impressive stained-glass windows of Sainte-Chapelle. If you want to make your next trip to the City of Lights a rich and memorable one, consider stepping back into the past as well as exploring the present.

Paris' landmarks at a glance

Most-visited landmark: Eiffel Tower

Oldest landmark: Arènes de Lutèce

Tallest building: Montparnasse Tower

Biggest museum: The Louvre

Architectural landmarks in Paris

1. Eiffel Tower

No list of famous landmarks in Paris would be complete without the Eiffel Tower, the city's enduring symbol and one of the most iconic monuments in the world. This architectural masterpiece not only offers incredible views of Paris but is perhaps the best-known example of 19th-century wrought-iron architecture. It was the world's tallest building until 1930.

Insider tip

The Eiffel Tower has a great restaurant called Madame Brasserie on its first floor, so you can grab a bite to eat while you're here. Also, if you want a great view of the landmark itself, consider going to the top of Montparnasse Tower. The Eiffel Tower will be at the center of your view, and you can see its lights switch on if you visit at sunset.

Address and opening hours

Av. Gustave Eiffel, 75007 Paris. Open daily, 9:00 AM-midnight.

2. Arc de Triomphe

Located on the western end of the Champs-Élysées, Paris' most famous thoroughfare, the Arc de Triomphe is a monument honoring those who fought for France during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars. It also contains the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Best time to visit

The best view of the Arc de Triomphe is at dusk when the sunset lights up the arch.

Address and opening hours

Pl. Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris. Open Wednesday–Monday, 10:00 AM-10:30 PM, and Tuesday, 11:00 AM-10:30 PM.

Historic landmarks in Paris

3. Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre)

The Louvre, the world's largest museum and arguably the most famous, showcases items from across history. More than 30,000 pieces are on display, including Napoleon's apartments, “Venus de Milo,” and — of course — “Mona Lisa.”

Insider tip

You won’t be able to see everything in one day, so choose a few must-see pieces in advance and consider booking a guided tour of the Louvre.

Address and opening hours

Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris. Open Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, 9:00 AM-6:00 PM, and Wednesday and Friday, 9:00 AM-9:00 PM.

4. Sainte-Chapelle

Not too far from the Louvre is Sainte-Chapelle, a 13th-century Gothic chapel known for its 15 stained-glass windows. Constructed for Louis IX, the building once housed the Crown of Thorns and a fragment of the True Cross. It’s a beautiful example of medieval religious architecture.

Best time to go

See Sainte-Chapelle in the early afternoon on a sunny day when the sunlight illuminates the stained-glass windows. But don't worry if you happen to go when it's raining. The shadows create a moody, even spooky, atmosphere.

Address and opening hours

10 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris. Open daily from 9:00 AM-7:00 PM in April-September, and from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM in October-March.

5. Arènes de Lutèce

If you're a fan of Roman ruins, check out the Arènes de Lutèce, a 1st-century theater that once seated around 15,000 people. The site is well-preserved and surrounded by chestnut grove trees, making it an excellent spot for a picnic.

Insider tip

Like many of Paris' historical monuments, the Arènes de Lutèce can swarm with tourists during the day, so visit early in the morning when it's less crowded.

Address and opening hours

49 Rue Monge, 75005 Paris. Open Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-7:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 AM-7:00 PM.

6. Paris Catacombs

Situated 20 meters underground, the Paris Catacombs contain the remains of more than 6 million people from the 18th and 19th centuries. This attraction isn't for those who are squeamish, but its retelling of the city's darker past makes it a must-do for history fans, especially for your first time in Paris.

Insider tip

The Catacombs can get busy, so try visiting in the early morning for a more serene experience. You can also book tickets ahead of time to beat the crowds.

Address and opening hours

1 Av du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy, 75014 Paris. Open every day except Monday, 9:45 AM-8:30 PM.

7. Moulin Rouge

The Moulin Rouge is one of the most famous cabaret theaters in the world. Fire destroyed the original venue in 1915, but this newer location is still a historical treat, most famous for being the birthplace of the modern can-can dance.

Insider tip

You'll need to pay to see a show if you want to step inside this iconic theater. However, you can still experience the building's history — and its famous windmill facade — from the street.

Address and opening hours

82 Bd de Clichy, 75018 Paris. Opening times depend on performances.

8. Notre Dame

The cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris, one of Paris' best-known historical landmarks. Known as one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture, Notre Dame is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and dates back to the 12th century.

Insider tip

Crypte Archéologique, situated in front of Notre Dame, is open to the public. This small museum contains ancient remains found under the cathedral, making it worth a visit if you're a history fan.

Address and opening hours

6 Parvis Notre Dame - Pl Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris. Reopening in December 2024 for the first time since 2019, hours for public visitation will continue to change, so check before your visit.

Natural landmarks in Paris

9. Luxembourg Gardens

Covering 25 hectares, the Luxembourg Gardens is one of the best places to visit in Paris for a delightful break from the urban jungle in the center of the city. Here, you'll find a geometric forest, statues, fountains, and collections of fruit trees and other plants.

Insider tip

With so many flowers and plants, it might take you a couple of hours to explore. Visit on a dry day and bring a good pair of walking shoes.

Address and opening hours

75006 Paris, France. Open every day from 7:00 AM until 1 hour before sunset in the summer and 8:00 AM until 1 hour before sunset in the winter.

10. Seine River

The Seine River runs through the heart of historic Paris, making this waterway an important part of city life. It's France's third-longest river and spans 485 miles from Dijon to the English Channel.

Insider tip

A river cruise is a great way to take in the many historical sights along the Seine, including the Eiffel Tower. Most cruises last for an hour or two and provide many photo opportunities.

Address and opening hours

Many Seine river cruises depart throughout the day and night from popular riverside landmarks, like Notre Dame.

FAQs

What are the most famous buildings in Paris?

The Eiffel Tower is the most famous building in the city, closely followed by Notre Dame, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre.

Where is the heart of Paris?

Paris is a sprawling city with many neighborhoods. However, you'll find many historical landmarks in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Arrondissements, such as Notre Dame and the Picasso Museum.

What are the free landmarks to visit in Paris?

Most natural landmarks in Paris, like the Luxembourg Gardens, are free to explore. Many attractions, such as the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe, charge a fee to enter. However, you can still experience these landmarks without a fee by exploring their architecture from the outside.

What are the best landmarks in Paris to visit with children?

There are many family-friendly activities in Paris, including Seine river cruises, museums, and parks. Disneyland Paris is also a short distance away.

When is the best time of year to visit Paris?

You can visit Paris and explore its historical sights during spring, summer, fall, and winter. However, July and August tend to be peak tourist season, so you might want to avoid booking a trip at this time of the year!