Paris

Top Things to Do in Paris: A Walkable Route of Must-See Spots

You can let GeoQuestr guide you through the city as you learn more about these amazing places along the way.

Browse Paris activities

The City of Light is made for wandering. From cobblestone streets to grand boulevards, Paris rewards those who explore on foot. Below is a route-style list of stops you can follow through the city's most beautiful areas.

1. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur — Start at the Top

Begin your day at Montmartre, climbing the winding streets to the gleaming white dome of Sacré-Cœur. The view from the top of the hill is one of the best panoramas in Paris.

Why it's worth it:

• The Place du Tertre still has working artists painting portraits
• You'll walk streets where Picasso, Van Gogh, and Modigliani lived
• The vineyard on Rue des Saules is a hidden gem

2. Le Marais — Paris at Its Most Charming

Head to Le Marais, one of the oldest and most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris. Medieval architecture, hidden courtyards, and some of the best falafel you'll ever eat.

What to do here:

• Explore Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris
• Duck into the Musée Carnavalet for free Parisian history
• Walk Rue des Rosiers for food and atmosphere

3. Île de la Cité & Notre-Dame — The Heart of Paris

Cross to Île de la Cité, the island where Paris was born. Notre-Dame is undergoing restoration but the area around it — Sainte-Chapelle, the flower market, and the riverbanks — is magical.

Don't miss:

• Sainte-Chapelle's stained glass — arguably the most beautiful in the world
• Point Zéro, the exact center from which all French distances are measured
• The view from Pont Neuf, Paris's oldest bridge

4. The Seine Riverbanks — A UNESCO Walk

Follow the Seine west along the riverbanks, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The bouquinistes (booksellers) line the quays, and every bridge tells a different story.

Good mini-plans:

• Walk from Notre-Dame to the Musée d'Orsay along the Left Bank
• Stop at Shakespeare and Company bookshop
• Grab a crêpe from a riverside stand and eat by the water

5. Jardin du Luxembourg — A Royal Garden Pause

Take a break in the Jardin du Luxembourg, the elegant garden of the French Senate. It's the perfect place to sit, people-watch, and recharge.

Why people love it:

• The Medici Fountain is one of the most romantic spots in Paris
• Kids sail toy boats in the central basin
• Perfectly manicured paths for a slow stroll

6. Eiffel Tower & Champ de Mars — The Grand Finale

End your day at the Eiffel Tower. Whether you go up or simply admire it from the Champ de Mars park, it's the moment that makes a Paris trip feel complete.

Best for:

• Sunset picnic on the Champ de Mars with wine and cheese
• The view from Trocadéro across the river is the classic photo angle
• The tower sparkles every hour after dark — worth staying for

Simple Day Plan (Works for Most Visitors)

1. Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur (morning climb)
2. Le Marais (mid-morning + lunch)
3. Île de la Cité & Notre-Dame (early afternoon)
4. The Seine Riverbanks (afternoon walk)
5. Jardin du Luxembourg (afternoon break)
6. Eiffel Tower & Champ de Mars (sunset)

Ready to explore Paris with GeoQuestr? Browse activities or create your own for others to enjoy.