The ultimate guide to the 14 must-see monuments of Paris
Paris shines through its iconic monuments, witnesses of a fascinating past and exceptional architectural know-how. From the iconic silhouette of the Eiffel Tower to the stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle, through the majesty of the Pantheon and the splendor of the Palais Garnier, each building tells a unique story.
Exploring these places is to traverse centuries of history in the open air. From the left bank to the right bank, from Gothic to contemporary, Parisian heritage continues to amaze and evolve. From the imminent reopening of Notre-Dame to the expected price increase for the Eiffel Tower, this guide provides you with all the keys to fully enjoy these mythical sites.
1 - The Eiffel Tower
An absolute symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly the most famous monument in the capital – and one of the most visited in the world. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair, it rises to 330 meters high and offers an exceptional panorama of the City of Light.
✨ Must-Do Experiences
- Go to the top for a breathtaking view
- Dine at Madame Brasserie on the first floor or at the prestigious Jules Verne on the second floor
- Admire the night illumination, which comes alive every hour
📰 News
The Eiffel Tower may see its prices increase for non-EU visitors starting in 2026, a decision linked to new heritage funding measures in France.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM (last ascent at 10:45 PM)
- 📍 Address: Champ de Mars, 75007 Paris
2 - The Notre-Dame Cathedral
Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, Notre-Dame de Paris is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. This jewel has withstood the ages before being ravaged by a fire in April 2019. Since then, a monumental construction project has been underway to restore this iconic building.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Discover its stained glass and sculpted façade
- Explore the towers to admire the view and its famous gargoyles
- Learn the secrets of its reconstruction with a guided tour
📰 News
Great news: Notre-Dame reopened its doors on December 7, 2024! Since that date, it has been an opportunity to rediscover its restored architecture and admire the rebuilt spire.
- 🕒 Hours: 9:30 AM - 6 PM
- 📍 Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame, 75004 Paris
3 - The Arc de Triomphe
Located at the top of the Champs-Élysées, the Arc de Triomphe is an iconic monument of Paris, commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806 to celebrate his military victories. With its monumental sculptures and engravings of the Napoleonic battles, it embodies the grandeur of French history.
✨ Must-Do Experiences
- Climb the 284 steps to access the panoramic terrace and enjoy a spectacular view of Paris
- Discover the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where a perpetual flame burns in tribute to soldiers who fell in battle
- Attend the official ceremonies that regularly take place at the site
📰 News
The Arc de Triomphe has recently undergone a complete cleaning to preserve the delicacy of its sculptures. It remains a central location for major national celebrations, including the July 14 parade and the commemorations of November 11.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM (last entry at 10:15 PM)
- 📍 Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris
4 - The Pantheon
The Pantheon, a majestic neoclassical building from the 18th century, is located in the heart of the Latin Quarter. It was originally designed as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, but it has become a national pantheon where iconic figures from French history, such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Victor Hugo, are buried.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Explore the crypts and discover the tombs of great figures in French history
- Contemplate the Foucault pendulum, a fascinating scientific experience that demonstrates the rotation of the Earth
- Admire the impressive dome that offers a spectacular view of Paris from the inside
📰 News
The Pantheon regularly hosts events and temporary exhibitions that highlight historical figures from France and around the world. Currently, conservation and renovation work is underway to preserve this emblem of the republic. However, nothing that would require its closure.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- 📍 Address: Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris
5 - The Louvre Museum
The Louvre, one of the largest museums in the world, is a true treasure of art and history. Once a royal residence, it now houses invaluable collections, ranging from Egyptian antiquities to Renaissance works, including the famous Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Admire iconic works such as Liberty Leading the People, Venus de Milo, and of course The Mona Lisa
- Stroll through the Egyptian Antiquities galleries, one of the largest collections in the world
- Enjoy the temporary exhibitions that change regularly to offer new discoveries
📰 News
The Louvre Museum plans to increase ticket prices for visitors from outside the European Union starting in 2026, in order to contribute to the maintenance and restoration of its precious collections.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day except Tuesday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- 📍 Address: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris
Buy your tickets to visit the monuments of Paris
Arc de Triomphe in Paris
Sainte-Chapelle in Paris
The Palace of Versailles
Palais Garnier
Montparnasse Tower
Pantheon of Paris
Visit the Conciergerie of Paris
Château de Vincennes
Basilica of Saint-Denis
6 - The Orsay Museum
Housed in a majestic former train station, the Orsay Museum is a must-visit for lovers of 19th-century art and Impressionism. It boasts an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and artworks by Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and many other artists who have shaped the history of art.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Admire masterpieces of Impressionism, including Water Lilies by Monet and Starry Night by Van Gogh
- Discover the monumental sculptures of Rodin and the decorative art objects that reflect the elegance of the 19th century
- Enjoy temporary exhibitions, often dedicated to specific artists or movements
📰 News
The museum recently launched a new wing dedicated to modern art, allowing visitors to discover major works from the first half of the 20th century. This renewal attracts more and more visitors each year.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day except Monday, from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- 📍 Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 Paris
7 - The Grand Palais
The Grand Palais, emblematic of early 20th-century architecture, is an exceptional venue that hosts art exhibitions, fairs, and prestigious events. This building, classified as a historical monument, is particularly known for its large glass roof, a marvel of metal architecture.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Explore the contemporary art and history exhibitions that attract thousands of visitors each year
- Enjoy the spectacular architecture, especially the magnificent large glass roof that allows natural light to flood in
- Attend special events such as art fairs, fashion shows, and cultural events
📰 News
The Grand Palais has been designated as an Olympic site for the Paris 2024 Games, where fencing events will take place. This project has allowed for the renovation and preservation of this monument while making it accessible for new types of international events.
- 🕒 Hours: Variable hours depending on exhibitions, generally open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
- 📍 Address: 3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower, 75008 Paris
8 - The Petit Palais
The Petit Palais, located right across from the Grand Palais, is a Fine Arts museum that houses a rich collection of works from the 19th century, including paintings, sculptures, and art objects. Less frequented than other Parisian museums, it offers a more intimate atmosphere and allows visitors to discover often-overlooked treasures.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Explore the permanent collections which include works by Delacroix, Courbet, and Renoir
- Stroll through the inner garden, an oasis of calm in the heart of the capital
- Enjoy the temporary exhibitions that highlight artists from the 19th and 20th centuries
📰 News
No specific events related to current affairs for the upcoming year!
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day except Monday, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- 📍 Address: Avenue Winston Churchill, 75008 Paris
9 - The Palace of Versailles
Located about thirty kilometers from Paris, the Palace of Versailles is one of the largest and most sumptuous royal palaces in the world. Former residence of the kings of France, it embodies the grandeur and opulence of absolute monarchy, with its French gardens, its Grand Trianon, and the famous Hall of Mirrors.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Stroll through the French gardens designed by André Le Nôtre
- Explore the royal apartments and the Hall of Mirrors, where significant events in French history took place
- Discover the Queen's Hamlet, a bucolic reconstruction from the 18th century that is part of the Versailles estate
📰 News
The Palace of Versailles plans to implement a price increase for non-EU visitors starting in 2026, as part of a funding program for the preservation of its exceptional heritage.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day except Monday, from 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- 📍 Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles
10 - The Sainte-Chapelle
The Sainte-Chapelle is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, built under Louis IX in the 13th century to house the sacred relics of Christ. Located on the Île de la Cité, this chapel is famous for its magnificent stained glass, which illustrates biblical history and creates a spectacular luminous atmosphere inside.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Admire the stained glass, which covers nearly 600 square meters and tells the story of the Bible
- Discover the upper chapel, where the sacred relics were kept
- Enjoy a guided tour to better understand the history and symbolism of the stained glass and the building
📰 News
In 2024, restoration projects were undertaken to preserve the stained glass and architecture of the Sainte-Chapelle. Since then, the monument has been open as usual.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- 📍 Address: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
11 - The Conciergerie
The Conciergerie, former royal palace and prison, is one of the most iconic buildings in Paris. Located on the Île de la Cité, it is famous for being the last residence of Marie Antoinette before her execution. This monument is a witness to the French Revolution and its impact on the history of France.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Explore the cells of famous prisoners, including Marie Antoinette, and learn about the history of the Revolution
- Discover the medieval halls, former rooms of the Palais de la Cité
- Visit the guard room and the hall of lost steps, which showcase royal architecture
📰 News
The Conciergerie regularly hosts temporary exhibitions on the history of the French Revolution and the prison. Additionally, improvements have been made to make the visit more interactive and immersive. Stay informed so you don't miss them!
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- 📍 Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
12 - Les Invalides
Les Invalides, one of the largest historical complexes in Paris, is both a military museum, a hospice for veterans, and the final resting place of Napoleon Bonaparte. Its imposing architecture and magnificent golden domes make it a must-visit site for history and military art enthusiasts.
✨ Must-Do Experiences
- Visit the Army Museum, which houses impressive collections ranging from ancient wars to World War II
- Explore the tomb of Napoleon, located in the Dome of Les Invalides, and discover the history of the great emperor
- Stroll through the courtyards and gardens surrounding the complex, offering a peaceful view of Paris
📰 News
The site of Les Invalides hosted archery events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, highlighting the site's ability to host international events while preserving its role as a historical site.
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- 📍 Address: 129 Rue de Grenelle, 75007 Paris
13 - The Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is one of the largest cultural centers in Europe, dedicated to modern and contemporary art. Designed by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, its bold architecture, with its visible pipes and external structures, makes it an iconic monument in Paris, as famous for its exhibitions as for its permanent installations.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Explore the permanent collections of modern art, which include works by Picasso, Delaunay, Kandinsky, and many others
- Visit the temporary exhibitions that change each year and showcase contemporary artists
- Go up to the panoramic terrace for a stunning view of Paris and the Eiffel Tower
📰 News
The Centre Pompidou will be closed starting March 2025 for restoration work and this will last for several years!
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day except Tuesday, from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- 📍 Address: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris
14 - The Opéra Garnier
The Opéra Garnier, a masterpiece of Second Empire architecture, is one of the most famous theaters in the world. Commissioned by Napoleon III, it is recognized for its baroque style, its sumptuous grand hall, and its monumental chandelier. It embodies the opulence of the era and continues to host prestigious ballets, operas, and concerts.
✨ Must-See Experiences
- Admire the ceiling painted by Chagall that adorns the grand hall
- Explore the boxes and backstage, a dive into the history of opera
- Enjoy guided tours to learn more about the architecture and secrets of this mythical place
📰 News
The Opéra Garnier is the venue for numerous large-scale performances and events, especially during gala evenings and prestigious ceremonies. It remains a vital center of Parisian cultural life.
- 🕒 Hours: Open for visits every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, performances vary
- 📍 Address: Place de l’Opéra, 75009 Paris
15 - The Sacré-Cœur of Montmartre
The Sacré-Cœur, located at the top of the Montmartre hill, is an iconic basilica that offers an incredible panoramic view of all of Paris. Built in 1875, it is an important pilgrimage site, but also a symbol of the resilience of the French people after the defeat in the Franco-Prussian War. Its unique architecture, in the shape of a white dome, dominates the lively Montmartre district.
✨ Must-Do Experiences
- Climb the 300 steps to reach the top and enjoy a 360° view of Paris
- Visit the interior of the basilica, with its exceptional mosaics and spiritual atmosphere
- Stroll through the picturesque streets of Montmartre, discover its cafés, artists, and charming squares
📰 News
No upcoming news!
- 🕒 Hours: Open every day from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM
- 📍 Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris
Last tips for visiting the monuments of Paris
Visiting Paris is much more than discovering monuments; it’s about immersing yourself in the history and culture of the capital. To make your experience even more enjoyable, here are some practical tips to make the most of your visits.
Select the Best Times to Avoid the Crowds
Early in the morning, for example. The first visitors enjoy a quieter atmosphere. Arrive as soon as it opens to explore before the crowds. Or during the low season. If you can, avoid the high season months (July-August). Spring and autumn often offer pleasant weather with fewer people.
Reservations and Skip-the-Line Tickets Recommended!
Skip-the-line tickets are essential for saving time, especially for popular monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, or the Louvre. Prepare your tickets online to avoid long queues. Don’t forget to buy your tickets in advance for certain temporary exhibitions in museums like the Musée d’Orsay or the Centre Pompidou.
Get a Convenient Tourist Pass (Paris Museum Pass, etc.)
If you plan to visit several monuments, the Paris Museum Pass is an excellent choice. It provides access to over 60 monuments and museums, with priority entries. The Paris Pass, on the other hand, allows access to public transport and many attractions, ideal for an active stay.
Be Aware of Changes Expected in 2025-2026!
Some monuments, like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower, will see their prices increase. Be sure to plan accordingly, especially if you are traveling on a tight budget. Online reservations are becoming increasingly essential, so make sure to do them in advance to secure your spot.
We hope we have helped you with the top 15 most famous monuments in Paris!
See you soon on Come To Paris!
