10 best places to visit in Paris that you cannot miss!

The world famous Eiffel Tower definitely does not need an introduction unless you’ve been living under a rock. Built by Gustave Eiffel in the year 1889, the tower has become a symbol of France and is recognised world wide as a defining moment of the industrial era in the country. Today, this glorious work of art attracts as many as 7 million visitors annually, making the Eiffel Tower the most visited monument around the world. Comprising of three levels, you are greeted to a unique panoramic view of the city and the glittering skies during nighttime. In fact, the beautiful tower is also a renowned stage for numerous international events as well.

Recognised as a central landmark of Paris, the Louvre Museum is the world’s largest art museum and a famous historic monument of France. It hosts some of the most impressive art collections from around the world - including the iconic Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci - that enchants visitors of all ethnicities. The museum also draws crowd to witness the armless beauty titled ‘Venus de Milo’ and several other sculptures that are a part of the Louvre. Its iconic glass pyramid has become a symbol of sophistication and an element of elegance and is now recognised by tourists from around the world.

Another well known monument of the city, the Arc de Triomphe stands tall at the western end of the famous Champs Élysées. The arch honours those who fought valiantly and died during the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. With names of military soldiers engraved on its walls, the magnificent centrepiece is one of the biggest arches of the world. Visitors can benefit a panoramic view of Paris from atop this monument during the day and night. There is also a museum within the arch that retraces the history of Arc de Triomphe which is a must-visit for those interested to delve deeper into the roots of Paris.

Located on the scenic banks of river Seine, the Museum of Orsay houses an impressive collection of impressionist (400 paintings) and post-impressionist (1,100 paintings) masterpieces of the world. Visitors can get a chance to view famous artworks from artists such as Monet, Degas, Sisley and Van Gogh as the Museum of Orsay is one of the largest art museums in Europe. Originally a railway station, you can still trace the origins of Gare d’Orsay in its opulent architecture. The museum also creates several temporary exhibits throughout the year and it tops on the list of Paris’s interesting attraction.

The iconic church that was built almost eight centuries ago is another monument that is considered the pride of Paris. This notable cathedral is located on a small island (Ile de la Cite) in the middle of river Seine. The 800 year old church displays its tragic as well as glorious moments through the history of Paris. Through its phase of being almost demolished to being restored to its former beauty, a visit to Notre Dame is nothing less than taking a stroll down the valiant history of France. Be sure to catch a glimpse of the sparkling river Seine as well as historical artefacts housed within the Church once you’re in it.

Although often referred to as the city of lights, there is a dark, almost enigmatic past of the city that is retold within the catacombs of Paris. The underground ossuaries hold the remains of more than 6 million people. These ancient quarries were built as an effort to eliminate city’s overflowing cemeteries. Although slightly twisted, the catacombs have now begun gaining importance and is recognised as museum in Paris. The catacombs makes a perfect destination for those vying for an eerie, yet a curious story of the elaborate city.

Once a humble village in France, Versailles is a wealthy suburb that is home to the grand chateau of Versailles. The palace that once housed the royal family of France was considered as a symbol of absolute monarchy during the ancient times. Now open for tourists, visitors can view the life of Louis XIV from up close as well as some of the greatest achievements of France that are embedded within the museum. Don’t forget to spare some time for the opulent grounds of this palace that are beautifully done up and maintained till date.

The Sainte Chapelle church is located in the heart of the city, and considered as a gothic gem. Crowds often flock to this church for a glimpse of its striking painted glass panes that depict 1,113 scenes of the old and new testaments. Erected by King Louis IX, it took almost seven years to complete building the church. Often a favourite of architecture enthusiasts and students from around the world, Sainte Chapelle is often deemed as one of the wonders of the medieval world. Despite being subjected to various fires and floods, the church was restored and retrieved in the recent past. It now attracts as many as 900,000 visitors every year.

Known for being a favourite of many-a-hopeless romantics, a boat ride in the river seine is not a such a far-fetched idea in Paris after all. While there are several Seine cruises happening throughout the day, remember to pick the one which shows you some important attractions that are located by the river in Paris. Cruise through the beautiful river and make the most of the unobstructed views of the monuments of Paris. You can choose a cruise ride which comprises of snacks, lunch or dinner along with an audio guide that briefs you with the history of the city during your ride.

Dedicated to the sacred heart of Jesus, Sacre-Coeur Basilica is one of the most visited monuments of this city. Now standing as a sacred site, the artistic church is constructed using a white marble stone that gives it a stunning, chalky appearance. Visitors can make a trip to this church and avail a fantastic view of Paris since the church is constructed at an altitude of 130 meters above sea level. This makes it the second highest monument of Paris after the Eiffel Tower.