Hello, fellow travelers!

It’s no secret that Paris has always been a city I love. Its captivating beauty, its unique charm, its vibrant lifestyle—it all contributes to an unbeatable atmosphere.

But beyond the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Champs-Élysées, there’s an endless list of fascinating things to experience. Paris is, after all, so much more than all those classic destinations everyone recognizes from movies, TV, and romantic comedies. Sure, we’re not saying you shouldn’t visit the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre—they’re wonderful destinations that you’ll definitely remember for a lifetime. But, at the same time, isn’t part of traveling also about discovering the city’s hidden gems? Soaking up the culture, chatting with locals, and just… living a little, like the French do? A top tip is to actually rent a long-term apartment in Paris during your trip—that way, you’ll get even closer to the authentic experience, and it’ll be cheaper than expensive hotels!

That’s absolutely right! That’s exactly what we’ve focused on while putting together this little list of tips. So here are my top 10 tips for things to do in Paris, the City of Light and Love!

 

 

1. Indulge in French pastries

French baking is an art form in itself, and starting the day with a flaky croissant or a buttery pain au chocolat is an experience not to be missed. There are fantastic bakeries on every corner—for example, the famous “Du Pain et des Idées” in the 10th arr or “Poilâne” in the 6th arr. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try the iconic escargot—no, not the snails, but the snail-shaped pastry with chocolate and pistachio. 😉

 

2. Explore Montmartre

Montmartre, with its bohemian atmosphere, picturesque streets, and charming squares, is like something straight out of a romantic movie. Take a walk to the top of the hill and enjoy the view from the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, and don’t miss the chance to see artists at work on Place du Tertre. Also visit Maison Rose, a pastel-pink café that has become an Instagram favorite—even if you’re not really into the selfie trend, there’s actually something truly special about taking family photos and date pictures in this beautiful, unique setting. If you take our advice to rent an apartment in Paris, there are often apartments and B&Bs available for rent in this area, though prices can sometimes skyrocket!

 

3. Boat tour on the Seine

A boat tour on the Seine is more than just a pleasant cruise; it’s a window into Paris’s history and culture. Several companies offer guided tours that include both historical anecdotes and stunning views of iconic landmarks. The boats usually have both indoor and outdoor seating so you can enjoy the trip regardless of the weather—but we highly recommend trying to schedule this on a day with clear, beautiful weather. It really enhances the whole experience!

 

4. Visit the Saint-Ouen Flea Market

This massive flea market, known as the world’s largest antique market, is a true gold mine for collectors and treasure hunters. Here you’ll find everything from vintage clothing, antique furniture, old books, art, and jewelry. Afterward, you can grab a coffee at one of the cozy cafés in the area. Truly a top destination for anyone who’s a bit of a “collector”—just remember to wear comfortable shoes and drink plenty of water, as there’s a lot of walking involved!

 

5. Take a walk through Le Marais

Le Marais, with its well-preserved medieval streets and aristocratic squares, is one of Paris’s most charming neighborhoods. Here you’ll find iconic sites like the Place des Vosges, one of the oldest squares in Paris, and the Hôtel de Ville, the city hall. The area is also known for its trendy shops, art galleries, and cafés. A must-see for history buffs and for photographers who love dramatic, high-contrast settings. If you have a day to spare, or if you’re even renting a long-term apartment in Paris so your schedule isn’t packed, then we recommend a trip to Le Marais.

 

6. Enjoy a picnic at the Champ de Mars

A picnic in the Champ de Mars park, located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, is one of the most romantic experiences in Paris. Here you can enjoy simple French fare like baguettes, Brie cheese, prosciutto, and a bottle of wine. Remember to bring a blanket to sit on and maybe a book for an even cozier experience. Sure, it might feel cliché—but as my uncle Lennart once said: “When you’re in France, you have to have at least one day of romantic cliché!”

 

7. See a performance at the Palais Garnier

Watching an opera or ballet at the beautiful Palais Garnier is like stepping into another world (the first time I saw this marvel was when I was living in student housing in Paris—it feels like it was just yesterday!). From the ornate interior with its marble statues and sparkling crystal chandeliers to the incredible acoustics, it’s an experience not to be missed.

 

8. Explore Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

This lovely park, located in the 19th arr, is perfect for a morning jog or a relaxing afternoon with a good book. Visit the caves, bridges, and the dramatic cliff with the Temple de la Sibylle at the top. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic or just to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The first time we rented an apartment in Paris for an extended vacation, we stayed nearby, and those were truly magical days and evenings spent around the park!

 

9. Experience art at the Centre Pompidou

The Centre Pompidou, a masterpiece of modern architecture, is home to one of the world’s most distinguished collections of modern and contemporary art. Here you can see works by icons such as Picasso, Duchamp, and Kandinsky. After your art tour, take the elevator up to the rooftop terrace for a fantastic view of Paris.

 

10. Take a day trip to Versailles

A short train ride will take you to Versailles, famous for its spectacular palace and gardens. Start with the palace, where you can explore the glamorous Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Grand Apartments, and more. Afterward, you can stroll through the vast gardens with their fountains, canals, and the picturesque Grand Trianon.

That's all for now, friends. I hope you've picked up some new ideas for your next trip to Paris. Be sure to explore the city at your own pace and let its charming atmosphere wash over you.

Au revoir and safe travels!