Bienvenue à Paris! Or, welcome to Paris! Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With its romantic buildings, exquisite parks, and rich architecture, the City of Lights yields one stunning view after another. Beyond the visual appeal, you will find iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, delicious pastries that melt in your mouth, and grand museums that take you to another place and time. In this travel guide, you will find the best things to see and do in Paris.
1. Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. Gustave Eiffel and his construction company designed it for the 1889 World Fair. Standing at 1,083 feet (330 meters), the tower has three levels accessible to the public. You will find a restaurant, an Eiffel Tower exhibit, and a glass floor on the first floor. On the second floor, you will find restaurants and shops. The third level is an observation deck offering panoramic views of Paris. There is also a champagne bar on the third level. There are two ways to reach the top: by elevator alone or by a combination of elevator and stairs.
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited monuments in the world, with millions of people ascending it every year. Because it’s so busy, it’s a good idea to buy your tickets in advance, especially if you are visiting during the busy summer months. The best spots to photograph or admire the Eiffel Tower include Trocadéro and Avenue de Camoëns. Starting at sunset, the monument sparkles in the sky with its 20,000 lightbulbs. It is truly a beautiful sight to see. The lighting of the Eiffel Tower is sometimes themed to coincide with specific events or causes.
2. Tour the River Seine by Boat
The River Seine flows through the heart of Paris and serves as a central element of the city’s landscape and history. A River Seine boat tour is an excellent way to see iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Louvre Museum, among others, from a unique perspective. Most tour companies include a commentary in multiple languages that provides insights into the history, architecture, and significance of the landmarks along the river. Tours range from simple sightseeing cruises to dinner cruises with gourmet meals. Some even include live music or entertainment, adding to the experience. Popular cruise companies in Paris include Verdettes de Paris, Bateaux Parisiens, and Bateaux Mouches.
3. Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments in Paris, located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées. The monument is a symbol of French national identity and pride, representing the country’s military victories and the resilience of its people. It is also a reminder of the human cost of war and a way to remember and honor those who have sacrificed their lives for their country. Beneath the Arc de Triomphe lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, a memorial dedicated to the unidentified soldiers who died in World War I. It is marked by an eternal flame that is rekindled every evening at 6:30 p.m.
Visitors can climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The view from the top offers a unique perspective of the city’s layout and landmarks. Visitors can purchase tickets in advance from the monument’s website.
4. Avenue des Champs-Élysées
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous avenues in the world. It is lined with luxury shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for shopping and dining. It is also home to several theaters and cinemas, offering a wide range of cultural experiences. The avenue is the site of several major events throughout the year, including the Bastille Day military parade on July 14th and the finish line of the Tour de France cycling race. It is also a popular spot for New Year’s Eve celebrations, with a fireworks display lighting up the Arc de Triomphe.
5. Walk Across the Pont Alexandre III
The Pont Alexandre III is not just a bridge but a work of art and an iconic and picturesque landmark. It spans the River Seine and connects the Champs-Élysées quarter and the Invalides and Eiffel Tower quarter. The bridge has ornate and elaborate designs, featuring Art Nouveau lamps, cherubs, nymphs, and winged horses at its four corners. Along the bridge, you will spot sculptures that represent France’s arts, sciences, commerce, and industry. It is one of the most beautiful bridges in Paris and is a popular spot for tourists and photographers.
6. Enjoy a Croque Monsieur
This classic French sandwich has ham, Gruyère or Emmental cheese, butter, and sliced bread. Some variations may also include Dijon mustard or béchamel sauce. To make a Croque Monsieur, butter is spread on the bread slices. In between the two pieces of bread is sliced ham and cheese. The sandwich is cooked in a skillet or on a griddle until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. Croque Monsieur is a popular dish in French cafes and bistros. Popular places to find the sandwich include La Petit Cler, La Fontaine de Belleville, and Au P´tit Grec.
7. Hôtel des Invalides
This complex of buildings contains museums and monuments related to the military history of France. Perhaps its most popular attraction is the tomb of Napolean Bonaparte. The Hôtel des Invalides also contains several other monuments and memorials, including the Museum of Relief Maps and the Museum of the Order of the Liberation. The former displays detailed scale models of fortified cities and regions whereas the latter honors those who fought against the German occupation of France during WW2. You can find more information about Hôtel des Invalides here.
8. Musée Rodin
This museum is dedicated to the works of Auguste Rodin, one of the most important sculptors of the modern era. The museum is located in his former home, a grand 18th-century mansion. The Musée Rodin boasts a vast collection of sculptures, drawings, and other works by Rodin, including some of his most famous pieces such as The Thinker, The Kiss, and The Gates of Hell. The museum also houses works by Rodin’s protégée and lover, Camille Claudel. You can find more information and purchase tickets here.
9. Musée de l’Orangerie
The Musée de l’Orangerie was originally built in the 19th century as a greenhouse to protect the orange trees at Tuileries Garden during the winter months. It was converted into an art museum in the early 20th century. The museum’s most famous attraction is the series of eight large-scale paintings of water lilies by Claude Monet, known as the Nympheas. In addition to Monet’s water lilies, the Musée de l’Orangerie also houses works by other artists, including Renoir, Cézanne, Matisse, Picasso, and Modigliani.
10. Place de la Concorde
This major public square has a rich but turbulent history. The square was originally named in honor of King Louis XV and contained an equestrian statue made to celebrate his health. However, by the time the statue was dedicated, the king had lost much of his popularity. During the French Revolution, the statue was torn down and melted and the square was renamed Place de la Revolution. The square was the chosen location for the public beheadings by guillotine of over a thousand people. Some of the most famous figures guillotined were Queen Marie Antoinette, King Louis XVI, and Maximilien Robespierre.
The square is home to several notable monuments and landmarks, including the Luxor Obelisk, a gift from Egypt in the 19th century. The obelisk stands at the center of the square surrounded by two fountains, the Fountaine des Mers and the Fontaine des Fleuves. Place de la Concorde is not only a historic and architectural landmark but also a cultural symbol of France.
11. Palais Garnier
The Palais Garnier, also known as the Opéra Garnier, was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III in the 1860s. It is a masterpiece of Second Empire architecture, characterized by its opulent facade, grand staircase, and lavish interior decorations. The building is adorned with sculptures, paintings, and marble friezes, showcasing the wealth and grandeur of the era. The opera house features a 1,979-seat auditorium with a large stage and a massive chandelier weighing over six tons. The building also houses a museum that displays costumes, set designs, and other artifacts related to the history of the Palais Garnier.
The Palais Garnier is not only a historic landmark but also a cultural icon of Paris. It has been the setting for many famous operas and ballets, and its beauty and grandeur continue to attract visitors from around the world. It is also famous for its association with the novel, The Phantom of the Opera, which was inspired by rumors of a ghost haunting the opera house. The Palais Garnier is open to the public for self-guided or guided tours, allowing visitors to explore its magnificent interior and learn about its history and significance. Book your Palais Garnier tickets in advance to guarantee admission.
12. Jardin des Tuileries
This historic park was created in the 16th century by Catherine de’ Medici, the queen consort of King Henry II of France. It was originally part of the Tuileries Palace, which served as the royal residence until it was destroyed in the 19th century. The park features several notable statues, fountains, and ponds, as well as the Musée de l’Orangerie and the Galerie Nationale du Jeu de Paume. The garden also offers stunning views of the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, and the Eiffel Tower. The park is an excellent place for leisure activities such as picnicking, strolling, and relaxing by the fountains.
13. Sample Cheese at a Fromagerie
Paris is home to numerous fromageries, or cheese shops, where you can find a wide variety of high-quality French and international cheeses. You can find popular French cheeses like Brie, Camembert, Roquefort, and Comté, as well as lesser-known regional varieties. Knowledgeable staff can help you select the perfect cheeses for your tastes and preferences. They can also provide information about the cheeses’ origins, flavors, and ideal pairings. Some fromageries offer cheese tastings, where you can sample different cheeses before making a purchase. This can be a great way to discover new cheeses and expand your palate. Popular fromageries in Paris include La Fromagerie Goncourt, Fromagerie Laurent Dubois, and Fromagerie Quatrehomme.
14. Musee d’Orsay
Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is home to a large collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces worldwide. The museum includes works by artists such as Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, Van Gogh, and many others. Additionally, the museum features sculptures, decorative arts, and photography from the same period. The museum’s building is an architectural masterpiece in its own right, featuring a stunning Beaux-Arts facade and a grand interior space with a vaulted glass ceiling. One highlight of the visit includes the view from the Orsay Museum Clock, which offers stunning views of the Seine River and its surroundings. Guided tours are available in French while audioguides are available in French and English.
15. Eglise Saint-Sulpice
Construction of this historic church began in 1646 but was not complete until 1870, after several interruptions and modifications to the original plans. The church is home to several notable works of art from the 17th to the 19th centuries, including frescoes by Eugène Delacroix in the Chapel of the Holy Angels. One of the most interesting features of Église Saint-Sulpice is the meridian line that runs through the church. This line was used to determine the exact date of Easter and is marked by an obelisk in the church’s south transept. The church has played an important role in French history and culture. One notable event that occurred at the church was the baptism of the future King Louis XVIII. It is featured in several works of literature, including Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables. Église Saint-Sulpice is open to visitors and offers guided tours.
16. Montparnasse Tower
The Montparnasse Tower was the highest skyscraper in France at the time of completion in 1973. The construction of the tower was controversial, as many Parisians felt that its modernist design clashed with the historic architecture of the city. Today, Montparnasse Tower is the fourth tallest skyscraper in the city. The tower is home to an observation deck, known as the Panoramic Floor, which offers stunning views of Paris and its landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. To save money on ticket prices and avoid long queues, buy your ticket in advance from the Montparnasse Tower website. Sunset is a popular time to visit, allowing visitors to see Paris both during the day and at night.
17. Jardin du Luxembourg
The Jardin du Luxembourg was created in the early 17th century upon the initiative of Queen Marie de Medici. The gardens were designed as part of the Palais du Luxembourg, which she purchased as her new residence after the death of her husband. The garden shares many characteristics with the French formal garden style including symmetrical layouts, geometric pathways, and meticulously manicured lawns and flowerbeds. The garden also features several fountains, statues, and sculptures, including a replica of the Statue of Liberty. One highlight of the garden is the Medici Fountain, which dates back to the 17th century and is one of the oldest fountains in Paris. The garden also features a large pond where visitors can rent model sailboats to sail on the water. It is a popular spot for picnicking, strolling, and relaxing.
18. Panthéon
This former church was converted into a mausoleum during the French Revolution to house the remains of distinguished French citizens. Notable French figures buried there include Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Émile Zola, and Marie Curie. The building features a massive dome inspired by the Pantheon in Rome and a portico with Corinthian columns. The interior of the building contains sculptures, paintings, and other works of art. An inscription above the entrance reads “Aux grands hommes la patrie reconnaissante” (To great men, the grateful homeland). The Panthéon is open to visitors and offers guided tours. Visitors are also welcome to tour the crypt, the burial location of France’s most famous citizens. The building also offers panoramic views of Paris from its dome.
19. Pont Neuf
The historic Pont Neuf, which translates to “New Bridge,” is the oldest standing bridge across the Seine River in Paris. It features elegant arches and ornate sculptures, including a series of 381 mascarons, or grotesque masks, that line the cornices of the bridge. The Pont Neuf is open to pedestrians and offers a picturesque stroll across the Seine River. It is also a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to enjoy views of the river and the surrounding landmarks.
20. Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum, or Musée du Louvre, is one of the world’s largest and most famous museums. It was originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century under King Philip II. It was converted into a royal palace in the 16th century and became a public museum during the French Revolution. The museum is a stunning example of classical and modern architecture. One of its most famous features is the glass pyramid entrance, which was added in 1989. The Louvre is home to over 35,000 works of art, including some of the most famous and valuable pieces in the world. Notable works include the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace.
The Louvre is one of the most visited museums in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. Be sure to purchase tickets in advance to guarantee admission. Audio guides and guided tours are also available.
21. Palais Royal
The Palais Royal was originally built in the 17th century as the residence of a powerful French statesman. After his death, the palace became the property of the French crown and was occupied by various members of the royal family, including Louis XIV. The palace was a center of political and social life during the 17th and 18th centuries. The Palais Royal is renowned for its stunning architecture. It features a beautiful courtyard surrounded by arcades, as well as a garden adorned with sculptures and fountains. The palace also houses the Théâtre du Palais-Royal, a historic theater that has been in operation since the 18th century.
The Palais Royal is open to the public for sightseeing with free admission. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining in the palace’s arcades, which are home to a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. In addition to shopping and dining, be sure to check out the famous Buren Columns in Cour d’Honneur (main courtyard).
22. Treat Yourself to Colorful Macarons
Macarons are a popular and iconic French dessert, consisting of two delicate almond meringue cookies sandwiched together with a flavored filling. Although the dessert has been around for centuries, the modern version we know today was popularized in the 20th century by French bakeries. Macarons come in a wide variety of flavors and colors, with popular options including vanilla, chocolate, pistachio, raspberry, and lemon. Many bakeries in Paris offer seasonal and limited-edition flavors as well. Paris is home to several famous macaron shops, including Ladurée, Pierre Hermé, and Maison du Chocolat.
23. The Centre Pompidou
The Centre Pompidou is home to one of the largest collections of modern and contemporary art in the world. The museum’s collection includes works by artists such as Picasso, Kandinsky, Duchamp, and Warhol. The building has an interesting and unconventional design. It features an exposed skeleton of brightly colored pipes, escalators on the exterior of the building, and a flexible interior layout that allows for a variety of exhibition spaces. More than just a museum, the complex also includes public spaces such as a library, a cinema, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Paris. These spaces are open to the public and offer a variety of cultural activities and amenities.
24. Conciergerie
The Conciergerie was originally part of a royal palace, built in the 10th century as a residence for the kings of France. It later became a prison and a judicial center during the French Revolution. Its most famous prisoner was Marie Antoinette, who was held here before being sent to the guillotine. Today, the Conciergerie is a popular tourist attraction and museum, showcasing its history as a royal palace and a prison during the French Revolution. Visitors can explore the prison cells and learn about the lives of the prisoners who were held there. The Conciergerie is open to the public and offers guided tours and audio guides in multiple languages. It is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in French history.
25. Sainte-Chapelle
This stunning royal church was built in the 13th century at the request of King Louis IX to house his collection of religious relics. The Sainte-Chapelle is renowned for its exquisite Gothic architecture, particularly its stunning stained glass windows, which display biblical scenes. The windows are breathtakingly beautiful with their vibrant colors and intricate details. In addition to admiring the chapel’s stunning architecture and stained glass windows, visitors can learn about the history through guided tours and exhibits. Audio guides are also available.
26. Shakespeare and Company
This famous independent bookstore was originally founded in 1919 by Sylvia Beach. It became a gathering place for writers and artists of the “Lost Generation,” including Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. The original bookstore closed during WW2. However, a store with the same name was opened in 1951 by George Witman, an American expatriate. Today, Shakespeare and Company continues to attract writers, readers, and literary enthusiasts from around the world. It features a wide selection of books in English and French with a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
27. Notre Dame
This historic medieval cathedral was completed in 1345. It is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture with flying buttresses, pointed arches, and a rose window. The cathedral’s facade is adorned with intricate sculptures and carvings, depicting biblical scenes and saints. It is home to several important artistic and historical treasures, including the Crown of Thorns. This relic is believed to be from the crown worn by Jesus Christ during his crucifixion. The cathedral also houses stunning stained glass windows, sculptures, and paintings. Notre Dame is not only a religious site but also a symbol of French history and culture. It has played a central role in many key events in French history, including the coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of France in 1804.
Sadly, Notre Dame suffered significant damage from a 2019 fire, which destroyed the cathedral’s roof and spire. Luckily, much of the cathedral’s structure and many of its artworks were saved thanks to the efforts of firefighters and preservationists. Reconstruction efforts are currently underway to restore Notre Dame to its former glory. Although currently closed, volunteers with the CASA Association offer free tours around the exterior of the cathedral. The cathedral is scheduled to open to visitors in December 2024.
28. Le Marais
This historic neighborhood is known for its charming streets, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. It is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, dating back to the Middle Ages. The area was originally marshland (hence the name “Marais”) but was later drained and developed into a fashionable residential district. Le Marais is home to several notable attractions, including the Place des Vosges, one of the oldest squares in Paris, and the Hôtel de Ville, a stunning Renaissance building. The neighborhood is a popular destination for shopping and dining, with a wide range of boutiques, vintage stores, designer shops, cafes, restaurants, and bakeries.
29. Musée Picasso
Musée Picasso is dedicated to the works of the renowned Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. It is housed in the Hôtel Salé, a grand 17th-century mansion that was renovated and converted into a museum in 1985. The museum’s collection includes thousands of works by Picasso, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, drawings, and prints. Highlights include iconic works such as Self-portrait from the “Blue Period”, Portrait of Dora Maar, and Two Women Running on The Beach. The Musée Picasso is open to the public and offers audio guides and guided tours. Purchase tickets in advance from the museum’s website to guarantee entry and avoid waiting in line.
30. Place des Vosges
Place des Vosges is one of the oldest and most beautiful squares in the city. It was the first planned square in Paris, built between 1605 and 1612. The square is surrounded by elegant red-brick buildings with steep slate roofs and dormer windows. In the center of the square is a beautifully landscaped garden with manicured lawns, gravel pathways, and fountains. The garden is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
31. Canal Saint-Martin
The picturesque Canal Saint-Martin was built in the early 19th century during the reign of Napoleon Bonaparte. It was constructed to provide the city with fresh drinking water and to facilitate the transportation of goods into the city. The canal is lined with beautiful trees and charming footbridges. Along its banks, you’ll find a mix of residential buildings, houseboats, and trendy cafes and boutiques. It is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to relax and enjoy the scenery. You can take a stroll along the canal, have a picnic on the bank, or take a boat tour.
32. Cimetière du Père-Lachais
The Cimetière du Père-Lachaise is the largest cemetery in Paris and one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. It covers approximately 110 acres and includes tree-lined avenues, beautiful sculptures, and elaborate tombs and mausoleums. The cemetery is the final resting place of many notable individuals, including writers, artists, musicians, politicians, and other prominent figures. Some of the most famous graves include those of Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Edith Piaf, Frédéric Chopin, and Marcel Proust. Père Lachaise Cemetery is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the cemetery on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about its history and famous residents.
33. Indulge in Decadent Pastries
Paris is home to a wide variety of sweet treats and pastries. Croissants are perhaps the most famous French pastry. The croissant is a buttery, flaky pastry that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack. It can be enjoyed plain or filled with chocolate or almond paste. Similar to a croissant, a pain au chocolat is a pastry filled with a strip of dark chocolate. It is a popular choice for breakfast or as a snack. Other popular pastries include eclairs, millie-feuille, tarte tatin, and Paris-brest. Although there are countless places where you can indulge in these delightful treats, popular pastry shops include Patisserie Stohrer, Du Pain et des Idées, and Angelina. If you do go to Angelina, be sure to try the signature hot chocolate.
34. Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
This large public park features steep cliffs, a man-made lake with a rocky island, several bridges, and a grotto. The park is also home to a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. One of the most iconic features of the park is the Temple de la Sibylle, a small temple located on a rocky island. The temple offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding city. The park also features a suspension bridge, a waterfall, and several cafes and restaurants. The Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including walking, jogging, picnicking, and boating on the lake. The park is also home to a playground and a puppet theater, making it a popular destination for families.
35. Sacré-Cœur
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Paris, commonly known as Sacré-Cœur Basilica, is a beautiful church located at the summit of the Butte Montmartre, the highest point in Paris. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica was built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a symbol of penance for the defeat of France in the 1870 Franco-Prussian War. The basilica is a stunning example of Romano-Byzantine architecture, characterized by its white travertine stone exterior, large dome, and ornate bell towers. The interior features beautiful mosaics, stained glass windows, and a massive mosaic of Christ in Majesty. Sacré-Cœur is open to visitors and is a popular tourist attraction in Paris. Visitors can climb the dome for even better views of the city and explore the interior of the basilica.
36. Moulin Rouge
Founded in 1889, the Moulin Rouge is a famous cabaret and entertainment venue. The Moulin Rouge is famous for its spectacular shows, which combine singing, dancing, and elaborate costumes and sets. The show has become an iconic symbol of Parisian nightlife and is one of the most famous cabarets in the world. Its popularity grew even more after the release of the 2001 award-winning film, Moulin Rouge. The cabaret is a popular destination for tourists. If you are planning on seeing a show, book your tickets in advance from the Moulin Rouge website.
37. Fondation Louis Vuitton
This contemporary art museum is located in the Bois de Boulogne Park. The building itself is a stunning architectural masterpiece, featuring a complex arrangement of glass panels that create a series of fluid, sail-like forms. The museum’s collection includes works by contemporary artists from around the world, with a focus on showcasing innovative and experimental art in various forms, including painting, sculpture, installation, and multimedia. You can find more information about the museum here.
38. Bois de Boulogne
Covering an area of over 2,000 acres (800 hectares), Bois de Boulogne is one of the largest parks in Paris. Originally a hunting ground for the French kings, the Bois de Boulogne was transformed into a public park during the reign of Napoleon III in the mid-19th century. Today, the park features a mix of natural and landscaped areas, including lakes, forests, and gardens. It is a popular spot for walking, jogging, cycling, and picnicking, especially on weekends when the weather is nice. The park also offers a range of attractions and amenities, including restaurants, boat rentals, horseback riding, and even a small amusement park called the Jardin d’Acclimatation. It is also home to the previously mentioned Fondation Louis Vuitton and the annual Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe horse race.
39. Catacombs of Paris
In the late 18th century, the cemeteries in Paris were becoming overcrowded. This led to unsanitary conditions and public health issues. To address this issue, the remains from various cemeteries were exhumed and transferred to the underground catacombs. The catacombs hold the remains of an estimated 6 to 7 million people. The bones are arranged in a macabre yet artistic manner, with skulls and femurs neatly stacked along the walls in patterns and designs. Visitors to the Catacombs of Paris can explore a small section of the underground tunnels, which are lined with bones and lit by dim lighting. The atmosphere is eerie and somber, adding to the experience of walking through this underground necropolis. Be sure to book your ticket in advance to guarantee admission.
40. Take a Side Trip to Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks in France. In 1682, King Louis XIV moved the royal court from Paris to Versailles. It remained the seat of political power in France until the royal family was forced to return to Paris during the French Revolution in 1789. The palace is grand and extravagant, to say the least. It features stunning examples of 17th- and 18th-century art and architecture, including the Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Chapel, the Royal Opera House, and the Grand Trianon. The palace’s gardens are equally impressive, covering more than 2,000 acres (800 hectares) and featuring meticulously manicured lawns, fountains, and sculptures.
Versailles is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to marvel at the palace and its gardens. Whether you explore Versaille on your own or by guided tour, be sure to purchase tickets in advance to guarantee admission.