What to See & Do
Overview Table
| Name | Appeal | Type | Cost | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Arc de Triomphe | ★★★★★ | Landmark + Panorama | Paid € |
| 02 | Champs Elysées | ★★★☆☆ | Avenue | Free |
| 03 | Concorde Square | ★★★☆☆ | Square | Free |
| 04 | St. Marie-Madeleine Church | ★★★☆☆ | Church | Free |
| 05 | St. Augustin Church | ★★★☆☆ | Church | Free |
| 06 | Galerie Dior | ★★★☆☆ | Museum - Fashion | Paid € |
| 07 | Pont Alexandre III | ★★☆☆☆ | Bridge | Free |
| 08 | Petit Palais | ★★☆☆☆ | Museum - Fine Arts | Either |
| 09 | Grand Palais | ★★☆☆☆ | Exhibits - Art | Paid € |
| 10 | Palais de la Découverte | ★★☆☆☆ | Museum - Sciences | Free |
| 11 | Jacquemart André Museum | ★★☆☆☆ | Museum - European Art | Paid € |
| 12 | Nissim de Camondo Museum | ★★☆☆☆ | House Museum | Paid € |
| 13 | Hôtel de la Marine | ★★☆☆☆ | Palace Museum | Paid € |
| 14 | Cernuschi Museum | ★★☆☆☆ | Museum - Asian Art | Either |
| 15 | American Cathedral | ★★☆☆☆ | Cathedral | Free |
| 16 | Alexandre Nevsky Cathedral | ★★☆☆☆ | Cathedral | Free |
| 17 | St. Philippe-du-Roule Church | ★★☆☆☆ | Church | Free |
| 18 | Monceau Park | ★★☆☆☆ | Park | Free |
| 19 | Champs-Élysées Garden | ★★☆☆☆ | Park | Free |
| 20 | Galerie Madeleine | ★☆☆☆☆ | Covered Passage | Free |
01. Arc de Triomphe
Appeal ★★★★★
Type Landmark + Panorama
Cost Paid
French Name
Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe, located at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, is one of the city’s most iconic monuments. Commissioned by Napoleon I in 1806 to honor the victories of his army, its design draws inspiration from ancient Roman triumphal arches.
The construction took 30 years, and it stands as a symbol of French national pride and military history. The monument features intricate sculptures and reliefs that depict various battles and historical events.
Visitors can ascend to the top for panoramic views of Paris, including the famous Champs-Élysées.
The Arc de Triomphe also serves as a site for national ceremonies, including the annual Bastille Day military parade and commemorations for the Unknown Soldier, whose tomb lies beneath the arch.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
⚙️ Visitor Info (Official Website)
The access is via an underground pedestrian passage (called Passage du Souvenir).
02. Champs Elysées
Appeal ★★★☆☆
Type Avenue
Cost Free
French Names
Avenue des Champs-Élysées
Les Champs
The Champs-Élysées, often referred to as “the world’s most beautiful avenue,” is a renowned thoroughfare, stretching from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. This iconic avenue is famous for its theaters, cafés, and luxury shops, including high-end brands.
It serves as a cultural hub, hosting significant events such as the annual Bastille Day military parade and the finish line for the Tour de France cycling race. The name “Champs-Élysées” translates to “Elysian Fields,” drawing inspiration from Greek mythology, symbolizing a paradise for heroes.
03. Concorde Square
Appeal ★★★☆☆
Type Square
Cost Free
French Names
Place de la Concorde
La Concorde
The Place de la Concorde is a prominent public square established in the 18th century, it was originally known as a site for executions during the French Revolution, where notable figures like King Louis XVI were guillotined.
Noteworthy features include the Luxor Obelisk, a 23-meter tall ancient Egyptian monument, and beautiful fountains and sculptures that adorn the square.
04. St. Marie-Madeleine Church
Appeal ★★★☆☆
Type Church
Cost Free
French Names
Église Sainte-Marie-Madeleine
La Madeleine
The construction of this church began in 1764 and was completed in 1842. showcasing a neoclassical architectural style that resembles a Greek temple rather than a traditional church. This unique design features a Corinthian colonnade and lacks a typical cross, emphasizing its classical aesthetic.
The church serves as a parish and is notable for its historical significance, including its use as a temple of glory for Napoleon. Inside, it houses remarkable artworks, including a fresco depicting Christ surrounded by significant biblical figures.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
05. St. Augustin Church
Appeal ★★★☆☆
Type Church
Cost Free
French Name
Église Saint-Augustin
This church was built between 1860 and 1871. It is renowned for its architectural style that combines elements of Romanesque and Byzantine influences. The church is significant for its use of iron and steel, marking it as one of the first large structures to utilize these materials extensively.
The interior features a beautiful nave and a striking dome, contributing to its aesthetic appeal.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
06. Galerie Dior
Appeal ★★★☆☆
Type Fashion Museum
Cost Paid
French Name
Galerie Dior
This place is dedicated to the legacy of the iconic fashion designer Christian Dior. This venue not only showcases the history of the House of Dior but also celebrates the art of haute couture.
Visitors can explore a rich collection of original sketches, garments, and accessories that reflect Dior’s innovative spirit and influence on fashion. The gallery aims to immerse guests in the world of Dior, highlighting significant milestones and the evolution of the brand.
07. Pont Alexandre III
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Bridge
Cost Free
French Name
Pont Alexandre III
The Pont Alexandre III is a renowned deck arch bridge, spanning the Seine River. Completed in 1900 for the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair).
The bridge is celebrated for its ornate design, featuring lavish decorations, including golden statues and intricate sculptures. Its architectural style is a blend of Beaux-Arts and Art Nouveau, characterized by its grandiose arches and elegant details.
08. Petit Palais
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Fine Arts Museum + Garden
Cost Free or Paid
French Name
Petit Palais
The Petit Palais, constructed for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, is renowned for its impressive collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, spanning from Antiquity to the early 20th century.
It’s also notable for its beautiful architecture, featuring a grand façade and an inner garden.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Garden
09. Grand Palais
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Art Exhibitions
Cost Paid
French Name
Grand Palais
This place is a historic exhibition hall and museum complex, renowned for its stunning architecture, particularly its large glass dome. Built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle, it was dedicated to showcasing French art and culture.
It has served various purposes over the years, hosting art exhibitions, cultural events, and even sporting activities,
Visitors can explore its vast interior, which features a 240-meter-long nave, and enjoy a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
10. Palais de la Découverte
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Sciences Museum
Cost Free
French Name
Palais de la Découverte
Thi prominent science museum aims to promote scientific knowledge through interactive exhibits and educational programs.
It features a variety of displays covering disciplines such as physics, chemistry, astronomy, and mathematics, making it an engaging destination for visitors of all ages.
11. Jacquemart André Museum
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type European Art Museum
Cost Paid
French Name
Musée Jacquemart-André
This msueum is housed in a former private mansion built between 1869 and 1875. It was established by Édouard André and Nélie Jacquemart, who were passionate art collectors.
The museum showcases an exceptional collection of 15th to 18th-century european art, including works by renowned artists such as Fragonard, Boucher, and Rembrandt.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the opulent atmosphere of the mansion, which reflects the lifestyle of the wealthy during the 19th century. The museum not only features paintings but also decorative arts, sculptures, and period furniture, providing a comprehensive view of the artistic trends of the time.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
12. Nissim de Camondo Museum
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type House Museum
Cost Paid
French Name
Musée Nissim de Camondo
This historic house museum showcases an impressive collection of 18th-century French decorative arts, reflecting the opulence and refinement of the period.
The house itself, designed in the early 20th century, is a prime example of the architectural style of the time.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
13. Hôtel de la Marine
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Palace Museum
Cost Paid
French Name
Hôtel de la Marine
Located on the Place de la Concorde this historic building was constructed between 1757 and 1774. Originally serving as the Garde-Meuble de la Couronne, it was responsible for the storage and management of royal furniture and artworks.
The building showcases a neoclassical architectural style and has been a significant witness to French history. After serving various governmental functions, including housing the French Navy’s administrative offices, it underwent extensive restoration and was opened to the public in 2021.
Visitors can explore its beautifully restored 18th-century apartments, which provide insights into the opulent lifestyle of the time.
The Hôtel de la Marine is not only a monument of architectural beauty but also a cultural hub, hosting exhibitions and events that celebrate its rich heritage.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
14. Cernuschi Museum
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Asian Art Museum
Cost Free or Paid
French Name
Musée Cernuschi
This museum primarily focuses on Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Vietnamese art. It was founded by Henri Cernuschi, an Italian banker and art collector, who donated his collection to the city of Paris.
The museum features a variety of artifacts, including sculptures, ceramics, and textiles, and regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that explore different aspects of Asian culture and art.
The museum’s architecture is also noteworthy, reflecting a blend of traditional and modern styles.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
15. American Cathedral
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Cathedral
Cost Free
French Name
Cathédrale Américaine de Paris
This anglican cathedral was built in the late 19th century, featuring a facade with intricate stone carvings and a magnificent rose window.
In 1923, a memorial dedicated to the American soldiers who died during WWI was added.
The cathedral serves as a spiritual home for the English-speaking community in Paris and hosts various cultural and community events.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
16. Alexandre Nevsky Cathedral
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Orthodox Cathedral
Cost Free
French Name
Cathédrale Saint-Alexandre-Nevsky
This prominent Russian Orthodox cathedral was consecrated in 1861 and built with support from Tsar Alexander II. It showcases a neo-Byzantine architectural style, characterized by its ornate domes and intricate interior designs.
The cathedral is dedicated to Saint Alexander Nevsky, a revered figure in Russian history.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
17. St. Philippe-du-Roule Church
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Church
Cost Free
French Name
Église Saint-Philippe-du-Roule
This church was built in the late 18th century and is designed in the Greco-Roman style, featuring a prominent façade with a portico supported by columns, reminiscent of classical temples.
Inside, it boasts twin rows of columns and a grand altar, showcasing the elegance of neoclassical architecture.
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Exterior
🏞️ Google Images Overview – Interior
18. Monceau Park
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Park
Cost Free
French Name
Parc Monceau
A large public park featuring trees, tarmac trails, statues, as well as an 18th-century colonnade.
19. Champs-Élysées Garden
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Park
Cost Free
French Name
Jardins des Champs-Élysées
This historic park that forms part of the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées was designed in 1667.
They feature a blend of formal gardens, tree-lined paths, statues, and fountains, providing a serene escape amidst the bustling city.
20. Galerie Madeleine
Appeal ★★☆☆☆
Type Covered Passage
Cost Free
French Name
Galerie de la Madeleine
This charming covered passage is adjacent to the iconic Marie-Madeleine church. This elegant shopping arcade features a variety of luxury retailers and gourmet food shops.
