There are a lot of things to do in Paris and the first time I went I did the usual: the Lourve, I climbed the Eiffel Tower, and I ate a lot of pastries. Don’t get me wrong, these are great things to do in Paris but I found 5 other things that are much better.
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5 Ways to Go Beyond the Typical Things to do in Paris
Yes, you should see the Eiffel Tower, but how? Yes, you should eat all the pastries, but which ones? Here’s 5 things to do in Paris instead of or along with the typical to do list.
Don’t Just Eat Pastries, Do a Food Tour in Montmartre
Pastries, macaroons, and charcuterie are just the beginning of a food tour in Montmartre. Be sure to book this neighborhood tour for a local look at restaurants in one of the best neighborhoods in Paris. You’ll spend time walking around the area, going to local restaurants, and eating. It’s really the best.
Book this tour: Montmartre Food Tour
Don’t Go Up the Eiffel Tour, View the Eiffel Tower from Arc de Triomphe
The first time I went to Paris, I had to go up the Eiffel Tower and it was quite disappointing. I mean, you’re standing on the most iconic part of the city. Then, I went up the Arc de Tiomphe and it was amazing. It’s the best view in Paris and I would do again when and if I go back to the city.
Book here: Get your tickets ahead of time
Don’t go to Just the Louvre, Visit Musée d’Orsay for the Big Clock Too
The Louvre is definitely worth a visit and while the Mona Lisa is very small, it’s still worth seeing. I think it gets a lot of hate because it’s a bit underwhelming considering the giant paintings surrounding it.
That being said, it’s not my favorite museum in Paris. The Musée d’Orsay is much less overwhelming and the views from it are stunning. Not only do you get the view of the iconic clock, but you can also see the Eiffel Tower from various windows. All while experiencing art at its finest and less crowds.
Book here: Get your tickets ahead of time
Don’t Stay Above Ground, Tour the Catacombs
This next one might not be for everyone, but I definitely think it’s a must do. The Catacombs are an interesting historic place to visit and completely unique. You can’t see anything like it anywhere else. Book ahead of time because, while weird, it’s popular.
Book here: Get your tickets ahead of time
Don’t just Take Public Transit, Walk the River Seine
Finally, walk a lot in Paris. We stayed neared the Notre Dame and walked almost to every place we went to. When we were in Paris, they were setting up for the summer Olympics so some of the views I wanted weren’t possible but I still loved walking the river. We did this every single day and you miss a lot when you just hop on public transit. Bonus points if you get up for sunrise. It’s worth it.
Go Beyond Things to do in Paris
If you’re looking to go beyond Paris, be sure to check out this post on a France itinerary. There’s a lot of things to do in Paris, but there’s so much to see outside of it as well.
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