As the city of romance and art, Paris is home to some of the world’s most iconic monuments. Whether you’re planning a trip to the City of Lights or are just looking for some interesting places to explore, here is a full list of the most visited monuments in Paris. From the Eiffel Tower to the Notre Dame Cathedral, these monuments are sure to take your breath away.
In this article…
1. Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic monuments in Paris and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.
It stands 324 metres tall and was built as an entrance arch for the 1889 World’s Fair. It is a symbol of Paris and a symbol of France, and offers a stunning view of the city from its top platform.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower is a must for anyone visiting Paris, and is definitely worth it. It offers some of the best views of the city, and is a great place to take photos.
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2. The Louvre
The Louvre is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, with over 10 million visitors per year. It is home to some of the world’s most iconic works of art, such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, as well as a vast collection of ancient artifacts.
A visit to the Louvre is a must for any traveler to Paris, and it’s definitely worth it to take the time to explore the rich history and art that this museum has to offer.
3. Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris is one of the most visited monuments in Paris. Its impressive Gothic architecture and rich history make it a must-see for visitors to the city.
It is home to many works of art and religious artifacts, including some of the oldest stained-glass windows in the world.
The building itself is an iconic symbol of French culture and heritage. Visiting Notre-Dame de Paris is certainly worth it, as it offers a unique experience that will remain with you for years to come.
4. Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. It stands 164 feet tall and is a tribute to those who fought for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars.
The Arc de Triomphe is definitely worth visiting if you are in Paris. It offers spectacular views from its roof, and it has been recently renovated to restore its original beauty.
It is also surrounded by many other popular monuments, making it a great place to explore.
5. Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacré-Coeur)
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart, also known as the Sacré-Coeur, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris. Located at the top of the hill of Montmartre, it offers spectacular views of the city and has become one of the most visited monuments in Paris.
The basilica was built in 1873 and is a prime example of Romano-Byzantine architecture.
It features a beautiful white dome, detailed mosaics, stained glass windows and an impressive bell tower.
The basilica also houses a museum and an organ concert hall. Visiting the Sacré-Coeur is definitely worth it. Not only will you get to enjoy the stunning views, but you can also explore the basilica’s rich history and art.
6. Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, with over 12 million visitors each year. It is an iconic building located in the Beaubourg area, featuring a modernist design that stands out from the rest of the architecture in the city.
The building houses a vast collection of contemporary art, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations from some of the world’s most renowned artists.
The Centre also features a library, bookshop, cinema, and restaurant. It is definitely worth visiting to experience the unique atmosphere and explore the fascinating works of art.
7. Sainte-Chapelle
Sainte-Chapelle is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, and for good reason. It is an exquisite example of Gothic architecture, with its soaring stained-glass windows, intricate stonework, and vaulted ceilings.
Visitors can admire the breathtaking beauty of this stunning monument from every angle, both inside and out.
The chapel has a long and illustrious history, and has been used as a place of worship by kings, queens, and other nobility. A visit to Sainte-Chapelle is definitely worth it, as it is a unique and beautiful building that will leave a lasting impression.
8. Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, and it’s easy to see why.
It houses an impressive collection of artwork from the 19th century, including works by Impressionist painters like Monet and Degas. It also features sculptures, furniture, and decorative arts from the same period.
The building itself is a work of art, with its stunning architecture and views of the Seine. Visiting the museum is an experience not to be missed, and it’s definitely worth the visit.
9. Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, and for good reason. Located just outside the city, this grand palace was once home to French kings and queens, and it is now open to the public.
Visitors to the palace can explore the stunning grounds and gardens, visit the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, and explore the Hall of Mirrors, one of the most famous rooms in the palace.
It is definitely worth visiting the palace and taking the time to explore the history, architecture, and art that make it such an iconic destination.
10. Luxembourg Gardens
Luxembourg Gardens is one of the most visited monuments in Paris and is definitely worth visiting. It is a stunning public park located in the heart of Paris, and it offers visitors a chance to experience the beauty and tranquility of the city.
The gardens feature a variety of attractions, such as an orangery, fountains, a pond, lush lawns, and over one hundred statues and sculptures. Visitors can also enjoy numerous activities, including boating, playing chess, and taking part in puppet shows. The gardens are open year-round and admission is free.
11. Jardin des Tuileries
Jardin des Tuileries is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, France. It is a large public garden located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde.
This beautiful garden was created by Catherine de’ Medici in 1564 as a place for her court to enjoy nature and relax. The garden features well-manicured lawns, flowerbeds, fountains, sculptures, and other attractions. Visitors can also find café and restaurant options.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax, or a place to explore the city’s history, Jardin des Tuileries is definitely worth visiting.
12. Pantheon
Pantheon is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, and it is definitely worth visiting. Located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, the Pantheon stands as an iconic reminder of France’s history and culture.
Built in the 18th century, it houses the tombs of some of France’s most famous citizens, including Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Marie Curie, and Victor Hugo. The building itself is a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture, with its impressive dome and grand columns.
Inside, visitors can explore the interior of the Pantheon, which features sculptures and artwork from renowned French artists.
There is also a crypt beneath the building, which contains the remains of more than 70 French heroes and scientists. With its unique history and impressive design, the Pantheon is one of the must-see attractions in Paris.
13. Catacombs of Paris
The Catacombs of Paris are one of the most visited monuments in Paris and a must-see for visitors.
The Catacombs are an underground network of tunnels, galleries and chambers filled with the remains of millions of Parisians. Although they are morbid and eerie, they are also fascinating and definitely worth a visit.
The Catacombs provide a unique insight into the history of Paris and its inhabitants, and it is easy to understand why so many people are drawn to this extraordinary place.
14. Château de Vincennes
Château de Vincennes is one of the most visited monuments in Paris. Located on the eastern edge of Paris, this grand castle was originally built as a hunting lodge and royal residence by King Louis VI in the 12th century.
Today, it stands as a reminder of the impressive architecture and history of the city. Visitors can explore the vast grounds, take in the majestic views from the towers, and admire the beautiful gardens.
The château also houses several museums and galleries, and is home to the largest and oldest full-scale model of Paris. It is definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in French history and culture.
15. Conciergerie
The Conciergerie is a former royal palace and prison located on the Île de la Cité in Paris, France. It is one of the most visited monuments in Paris, with over one million visitors per year.
It was originally used as a royal palace and later served as a prison during the French Revolution. The building has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is definitely worth visiting.
It is home to a number of important historical artifacts, including the “Prisoner’s Bench” which was used to transport prisoners to the guillotine. Visitors can also explore the Gothic architecture and visit the Hall of Lost Footsteps, which contains portraits of the prisoners who were held there.
How many monuments are there in Paris?
There are approximately 160 monuments in Paris, including notable landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Paris is home to some of the world’s most iconic monuments. From the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame, these structures are a testament to the city’s rich cultural and architectural history.
The monuments of Paris are some of the most beautiful and iconic in the world, and they draw visitors from all over the globe.
They provide a glimpse into the city’s past and present, and they draw visitors from all around the globe. No visit to Paris would be complete without exploring these incredible structures.
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Most plans only cost less than $20 a day.
Tips for first time visitors
1. Make sure to book tickets in advance to avoid long queues at the monuments.
2. Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking.
3. Bring a camera or smartphone to capture pictures of the monuments.
4. Take a guided tour for a better understanding of the history behind the monuments.
5. Be respectful and follow local laws and regulations when visiting the monuments.
6. Learn a few basic French words and phrases like ‘hello’ and ‘thank you’.
7. Pack light snacks and water to stay hydrated while exploring the monuments.
8. Bring a map or use a GPS to make sure you don’t get lost.
9. Look up the opening hours of the monuments before visiting.
10. Dress appropriately as some monuments might require visitors to be dressed modestly.
All the best!
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