Paris Landmarks – Exploring the City's Celebrated Heritage
Paris is filled with landmarks that combine deep historical and cultural significance, each revealing a unique facet of the city's rich story. From monumental palaces to world-renowned cathedrals, the city's landmarks reflect centuries of art, architecture, and ambition. Our guide offers insights into some of the city's most celebrated sites, inviting you to explore the enduring beauty and fascinating history that make Paris such an enuduring destination.
Our Top-Rated Operas & Ballet In Paris
1. Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker, in December… Choreography by Nureyev
2. Giulio Cesare, January & February… Handel in his full glory
3. Opera & Ballet at Palais Garnier…… Marvel at the this Belle Époque opera house
4. Performances at Opera Bastille… Grand opera at its grandest
Chateau de Versailles
What started out as a hunting lodge for Louis XIII was expanded by his son, Louis XIV, AKA the Sun King, into a supercalifragilistic chateau and gardens — a symbol of absolute monarchy in France and the height of the arts of the era.
The grand scheme was completed in 1689 and the palace became the royal residence for exactly one hundred years, until the French revolution in 1789 deposed and beheaded Louis XVI and his queen, Marie Antoinette. For a century or so after that the palace and grounds fell into disrepair.
Today, Versailles has been fully restored, offering visitors the chance to explore its hundreds of rooms, grand galleries, and the legendary gardens. To truly appreciate its splendor, we recommend joining a guided tour with priority access and transportation from Paris.
Hôtel de la Marine: History on Place de la Concorde
Experience the Hôtel de la Marine on Place de la Concorde that was once home to France's royal treasures and later the Navy Ministry. Now beautifully restored, this grand 18th-century building invites you to wander through lavishly decorated salons and galleries, where history and art blend seamlessly. With stunning views and immersive exhibits, it's Parisian heritage at its finest.
Hotel de Ville
The Paris city hall: Hotel de Ville at night
Overlooking the Seine, the Hotel de Ville has served as the Paris City Hall for more than six centuries. This historic building has witnessed some of the city's most dramatic events, including its own destruction during the Paris Commune. Now restored to its former glory, it stands as a beautiful reminder of the resilience of France and a fascinating stop for those interested in its past.
Palais Garnier – The Belle Époque Opera House
Before a performance at Palais Garnier, photo by Mark Craft
Palais Garnier is a stunning reminder of the Belle Époque, a time of cultural flourishing in the late 19th century. Situated at Place de l'Opéra, this opulent opera house is known for its lavish interior, with ornate staircases, sculptures, and a grand auditorium graced by a ceiling painted by Chagall. Still in use today, it hosts ballets and select opera performances, offering a portal into the city's artistic legacy.
Secrets Of The Notre Dame Towers
Paris, as seen from the Notre Dame towers, photo by Mark Craft
The bell towers of Paris landmark destination Notre Dame Cathedral are what inspired Victor Hugo to pen his famous novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame, featuring Quasimodo, the bell-ringer with a heart of gold. These iconic bell towers have inspired countless visitors with their historic architecture and views of the Île de la Cité. Notre-Dame is being restored after the near fatal fire of April 2019, and is set to reopen in December 2024. Stay updated on when you'll be able to once again climb its 387 steps for a timeless view over Paris.
Our Most Popular Day Trips from Paris
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Spend a Day in the Champagne Region |
Visit the Historic D-Day Beaches |
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Visit the Historic D-Day Beaches |
Opera Bastille
The modernistic and stylish Opera Bastille
As Paris expanded and opera grew ever more ambitious and prestigious, French President François Mitterrand championed the creation of a modern opera house to complement the classic Palais Garnier. Opened in 1989 to mark the bicentennial of the French Revolution, Opera Bastille now hosts grand operas, showcasing some of France's finest productions in a sleek, contemporary setting that reflects the city's forward-looking spirit.
The Conciergerie
La Conciergerie at night, with the river Seine in the foreground
The building known as La Conciergerie started life innocently enough as the residence of the Concierge, who was the keeper of the royal palace that was once located on Île de la Cité. By the 14th century the royal residence had moved across the river to the Louvre and the Conciergerie had become a notorious prison. Its worst period of infamy was during the French Revolution when hundreds were imprisoned, tried and guillotined there — including Marie Antoinette. Today, visitors can explore this historic building and learn about its varied roles through French history.
Palais Royal
Gardens and fountain of Palais Royal, photo by Mark Craft
In the historic center of Paris, the Palais Royal is often missed by visitors. But it has one of the best hidden gardens in the heart of the city and an amazing history. Today at Palais Royal you also will find art installations, boutique shopping, and two Michelin-starred restaurants.
Skip-the-Line at the Louvre Museum
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The Louvre's Greatest Masterpieces |
Louvre Skip-the-Line Tour |
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The Louvre's Greatest Masterpieces |
Les Invalides & The Tomb of Napoleon
Les Invalides. The tomb of Napoleon is beneath the dome.
Founded by Louis XIV in 1670 as a residence for war veterans, Les Invalides now serves as a remarkable center of French military history. Its grand golden dome houses the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the site offers a deep look into the legacy of France's military achievements. Located in the 7th Arrondissement, Les Invalides is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Vaux-le-Vicomte
Vaux-le-Vicomte, set for dinner service
An hour from Paris, Vaux-le-Vicomte was the inspiration for the grandeur of Versailles. The chateau's enchanting architecture and expansive gardens offer a memorable escape into French history. A visit here feels like stepping back in time, particularly during evening candlelit tours, when the estate truly comes to life. This chateau is a perfect day trip for those wanting a taste of royal elegance beyond Paris.
The Many Chapters of Paris
The golden dome of the Tomb of Napoleon at Les Invalides
Exploring Paris's landmarks is like unfolding the pages of a rich historical novel. Each site offers a chapter of the city's story, from the magnificence of Versailles to the quiet escape of Palais Royal. Landmarks like these bring Paris to life in ways that create a lasting memory, helping you to connect with the art, culture, and history that make the City of Light truly unforgettable.
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