“Paris is always a good idea.”

Paris is filled with iconic sites, idyllic walks, different and interesting districts, perfect French cafes, world-renowned art galleries, beautiful architecture, and so much more!  I know that there are so many more items that I can add to this list… But, I hope that this Paris Bucket List will inspire your travels to France!

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1. Admire the Ile de la Cite

Paris was settled on the Ile de la Cite.  In medieval times, it was home to the church and the center of politics and power.  Now, it is known for its most famous attraction, the Notre Dame.  It is worth to walk around and admire that so much history occurred on this little island.

Recommendation: The Birth of the City of Light by Context Travel explores the the Roman city Lutetia and the foundation of Paris. You will get a wonderful understanding of the birthplace and history of Paris!

2. Buy a Book from Shakespeare and Company

Shakespeare & Co is Paris’ renowned English-language bookshop.  You can spend hours perusing the books here.

3. Browse for Antiques

Stop at one of Paris’ legendary flea markets or one of the many antique shops around the city.   I was told to not to miss Marché aux Puces at Clignancourt and Hôtel Drouot!

Recommendation: Take the Shopping in Paris: Exploring Fashion, Design, or the Flea Market by Context Travel, where you can do some great shopping.  They will cater to your personal expectations, style, and budget.

4. Climb to the Top of Sacre Coeur

Go to the district of Montmartre and climb the stairs to the top of Sacre Coeur.  The Sacre Coeur was built on the highest point in the city.  So, enjoy the beautiful views of Paris from the top of the stairs.  You can also go inside this beautiful church.

5. Climb the Stairs at Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the iconic symbols of Paris.  Napoleon commissioned this triumphal arch to brag show his military accomplishments.  For another wonderful of view of Paris, climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe.  Or, just admire the Arc de Triomphe itself.

6. Check out a Monet in Musee d’Orsay

“Blue Water Lillies” is my favorite Monet painting.  It, along with other beautiful and famous artwork, is located in the Musee d’Orsay.  The Musee d’Orsay is housed in a former railway station.

Insider Tip: Also check out the Musée de l’Orangerie for more of Monet’s Water Lilies

Recommendation: In the company of an art historian, take the Musée d’Orsay Tour: Crash Course by Context Travel, where you will “dive into one of the best collections of Impressionist art in Paris.”

If you want a tour that soley focuses on Monet, his work, and his inspiration, take the Monet in Paris by Context Travel.

7. Celebrate Important French Men and Women at The Pantheon

The Pantheon, originally built as a church, contains a crypt with the bodies of important Frenchmen (and women), such as Rousseau, Voltaire, and Victor Hugo.

8. Dine and Sip Bubbly on a Seine River Cruise

One of my favorite things in Paris was taking an evening cruise down the Seine River.  You get to see the city of lights from a new perspective and at a new time.  The best part, sipping bubbly while watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle and twinkle at night!

Recommendation: If you cannot make it on an evening cruise, take the Paris by Riverboat by Context Travel to “learn about the layout of the city and introduce its highlights from the perspective a Seine cruise.”

9. Do “The Thinker” Pose at Musse Rodin

Musse Rodin is a museum dedicated to Auguste Rodin, a French sculptor most known for his “The Thinker” statue.

10. Drink Chocolat Chaud at Angelina’s 

Drink chocolat chaud (aka Hot Chocolate) at Angelina’s on Rue de Rivoli.  I heard it is DEVINE!

Recommendation: If you are a chocolate lover, take the Paris Pastries and Chocolates Tour by Context Travel.  Your tastebuds can thank me later 😉

11. Eat a croissant at a French café

Becuase, you are in Paris.

12. Eat Parisian Delicacies 

There are so many French specialties.  The only way to get a full taste, if you will, of the Parisian and French cuisine, is to take a food tour.

Recommendation: Take the Baguette to Bistro: Paris Food Tour by Context Tour for a wonderful French gastronomy experience. Or, there is the Paris Market Walk by Context Travel for you food market fans. Finally, there is The New Parisian Palate: Modern Tastes of the Marais by Context Travel for another French food experience.

13. Eat at Le Jules Verne

Le Jules Verne is one of Paris’ best restaurants.  It is located on the second level of the Eiffel Tower.  The restaurant offers beautiful, panoramic views of Paris.

14. Eat Macarons at Ladurée

Enjoy a colorful box of sugary treats at the institution of macarons, Ladurée.

15. Explore the Catacombs

The Catacombs are underground ossuaries with over six million remains. Yikes!  You can tour a small part of the catacombs.

16. Explore St-Germain-des-Pres

St-Germain-des-Pres is classic Parisian neighborhood filled with cafes, boutiques, vintage stores, bakeries, art galleries, and old houses with plaques noting famous residents.

Recommendation: Much of jazz’s developmental history can be traced back to the underground clubs of Paris in this area.  Take the Le Jazz Hot: An American Art Form in Paris by Context Travel to learn all about jazz in Paris!

17. Enjoy a Souffle at Le Soufflé

Enjoy a meal and a souffle for dessert at Le Souffle Resturant.  Tres delicieux!!!

18. Gaze at the Sainte-Chapelle

The Sainte-Chapelle has been called one of the greatest architectural masterpieces in the Western World with its stunningly beautiful stained-glass windows. Located on the Ile de la Cite, this chapel is worth the visit!

19. Grab an Ice Cream from Bertillion

Located on the Ile de la St.-Louis, Bertillion is a legendary ice cream shop and tea room.  Be prepared for a long line, but it is worth it!

20. Have Your Portrait Drawn

Montmartre is the mecca for artists.  While you are in this area, in particular, the Place du Tertre, have one of the artists sketch a portrait of you.  It is a memorable souvenir!

Recommendation: There is so much more in Montmartre!  Take the Montmartre Neighborhood Tour by Context Travel to get a wonderful, in-depth exploration of this area in Paris!

21. Have Tea at Four Seasons George V

If you do not have the opportunity to stay here, then definitely go to the Four Seasons George V for afternoon tea. Treat yourself with exquisite and scrumptious pastries, tea, and champagne!

22. Go to the Top of the Eiffel Tower

Because, well, this is Paris.  And, a requirement.  If you are feeling in the spirit, order a glass of bubbly and enjoy the views of Paris!

23. Go to the Louvre

The Louvre contains one of the most important art collections in the world and houses over 35,000 works of art… Wow!  Art lovers can spend days, perhaps weeks, exploring everything the Louvre has to offer.  Naturally, you will want to see the Mona Lisa (which, gets its own Bucket List point).  But, there are other treasured pieces of art here too, such as Michelangelo’s Dying Slave, Venus de Milo, and the Raft of Medusa.  Plan your visit here according to your time frame in Paris and your love for art.

Recommendation: Since there is so much to see and learn here, take the Louvre Museum Tour: Crash Course by Context Travel to get the highlights of the museum and see the most famous works

24. Go to the “Phantom of the Opera” Opera House AKA the Opera National de Paris Garnier

If you are like me and absolutely adore “The Phantom of the Opera,” then you MUST visit the Opera National de Paris Garnier.  The Opera House sits over an underground lake, which inspired Paul Leroux’s Phantom of the Opera (and, this book influenced Andrew Lloyd Weber’s “Phantom of the Opera”).  Even if you are not a Phantom fan, this opera house is gorgeous filled with mosaic-covered ceilings, a grand staircase, and a grand auditorium.

25. Hunch Your Back in the Notre Dame

I cannot mention the Notre Dame without mentioning the beloved story of Quasimodo, the hunchback of Notre Dame (before it was a Disney movie it was a popular novel by Victor Hugo).  Notre Dame is one of the most amazing sites in Paris.  I could go on and on about the beautiful features of this building.  It also houses several famous Christian relics – a fragment of the True Cross, one of the Holy Nails, and a thorn from the Crown of Thorns.

Recommendation: Take the Notre Dame Tour: Paris Gothic Architecture by Context Travel to admire and learn all about the Notre Dame and Gothic Architecture.

26. Marvel the view of the Seine on the Ile de St.-Louis

The Ile de St.-Louis is the smaller of the two islands (the other being Il de la Cite) on the Seine River.  It is an elegant residential area filled with Parisian charm.  Explore this little island and marvel at the view of the Seine.

27. Picnic Under the Eiffel Tower on the Champ de Mars

The gardens, AKA the Champ de Mars, are located in front of the Eiffel Tower.  It is an awesome spot for a picnic, people-watch, and admire the beauty of the Eiffel Tower.

28. Ride a Bike

If you are short on time, this is one great way to tour the city.  Or, rent a bike for a couple of hours and bike along the Seine.

29. Relax at the Place des Vosges

Escape the noise and hustle-bustle of the city for a moment at Place des Vosges.  Located in the Marais district, Place des Vosges is the oldest planned square in Paris.

Recommendation: If you want to explore the Marais disctrict more, take the Marais Mansions by Context Travel to find the beautiful, hidden mansions of this neighborhood!  If you are interested in city planning, take the Paris Architecture Tour: The Making Of Modern Paris by Context Travel.

30. Read Les Miserables at Maison de Victor Hugo

Pay homage to the famous Victor Hugo.  Maison de Victor Hugo is where Victor Hugo lived between 1832-1848.  The Maison de Victor Hugo is located in the Place des Vosges (see above).

31. See the Mona Lisa

No explanation necessary.  Even if you are not an art enthusiast, you have to see this painting.

32. See the Eiffel Tower Sparkle

Every night and every hour on the hour the Eiffel Tower sparkles for five minutes.

33. Stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries

The Jardin des Tuileries is officially part of the Louvre.  Take a leisurely stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries towards the Louvre.

34. Shop on the Champs-Elysees

The Champs-Elysees is a long avenue filled with luxury shops.  You can also visit the Louis Vuitton flagship store.  Swoon…

Recommendation: For all of my fashionistas, take the Conceiving Couture: Fashion History in Paris by Context Travel to learn about the history, evolutaion, and inspiration of the Capital of Fashion!

35. Shop Some More at Galeries Lafayette

Visit the World Famous department store, Galeries Lafayette, especially during Christmastime.

36. Sing “Lady Marmelade” at Moulin Rouge

Are you singing, “Voulez-vous coucher avec moi (ce soir)?”  I always think/ sing that chorus from “Lady Marmelade” when I think of Moulin Rouge (Disclaimer, I apologize. Yes, I do know what that phrase translates to)… So, while you are there, hum that fun and flirty song and catch a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge.

37. Say Hello to Napoleon at Hotel Des Invalides

Hotel des Invalides was the first French military hospital and home to disabled veterans.  Now, it consists of multiple museums dedicated to the French Military.  Located in Hotel des Invalides, the final resting place of Napoleon is in center of the Dome Church.

38. Spot the Statue of Liberty

Yes, you read that correctly.  There is a Statue of Liberty in Paris!  The USA  gave this replica statue to France in 1889.  It is located near the Pont de Grenelle on a man-made island on the Seine.  Did you know that it faces west towards the original Statue of Liberty?

39. Sunbathe on the Seine during the Paris Plages

In July and August, the beach comes to Paris! A temporary beach is created with sand, umbrellas, and fun along the Seine River!

  40. Stay at the Ritz Paris

This Ritz Paris is one of the fanciest, exclusive, and luxurious hotels in Paris. It is a dream of mine to stay here.  And, if you book with me, I can get you these extra wonderful Virtuoso amenities (for 2018):

• Guaranteed upgrade at time of booking
• No set check-in/check-out time (hotel must be advised of estimated arrival time)
• Daily full breakfast, for up to two in-room guests (valid at restaurant or in-room)
• Complimentary two-way private airport transfer (with VIP meet & greet at the airport on arrival)
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

41. Take a Trip to the Palace of Versailles

For a day trip outside Paris, make it a trip to Versailles Palace.  I could write an entire separate bucket list on the Palace of Versailles.  The palace, the gardens, the historically significant Hall of Mirrors, there is so many things to see and explore here!

Recommendation: In the company of an art historian, take the Versailles Tour by Context Travel to explore and immerse yourself in the beautiful and opulent Versailles palace and gardens!

42. Take a Trip to Disneyland Paris

For another day trip, make it to the happiest place on earth (well, Europe).

43. Take Another Day Trip

Paris is centrally located to so many destinations for a day trip.  From the Normandy Beaches to Champagne, there are so many options for another great day trip.

Recommendation: There are several wonderful tours for an interesting day trip from Paris.  I recommend: A. The Châteaux of the Loire by Context Travel.  B. Paris D-Day and Normandy Beaches Tour by Context Travel. C. Giverny: A Journey to Monet’s Impressionist Garden by Context Travel. D. Chartres: The Jewel of Gothic Cathedrals by Context Travel. Or, E. a Custom Normandy Excursion by Context Travel.

44. Take a Selfie with the Locks of Love on Pont des Arts Bridge

Celebrate your love!  Couples engrave their names (or initials), attach the lock on the bridge, and throw the key into the Seine.  However, the City Hall of Paris strongly discourages couples from carrying out this tradition.  So, instead, celebrate your love with a selfie with the locks!

45. Trace the Steps of Hemingway

During the roaring twenties, Paris became the cultural capital of the world.  Artists, writers, musicians, etc. flocked to Paris, including famous American writer Ernest Hemingway.  Explore all the places that Hemingway wrote about in his books.

Recommendation: To fully trace the steps of Hemingway, take the Walking with Hemingway: A Journey through Literary Paris by Context Travel.

46. Tour Nazi-occupied Paris 

For over four years, the Nazis occupied much of France and Paris during World War II.  Take a tour of Paris through the lens of a Nazi-occupied Paris.

Recommendation: Lead by a historian, take the Paris WW2 Nazi Occupation Tour: Lights Out by Context Travel to learn the story of the city during this era.  If you are interested in the Jewish History in Paris, you can take the Jewish Paris and the Marais by Context Travel.

47. Visit the Picasso Museum

The Musee Picasso houses an extensive collection of Pablo Picasso.

48. Visit the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter, named after the Latin Language that was spoken around the university during the Middle Ages, is filled with cafes, cinemas, universities, and Parisian charm, as well as other, must see items.

Recommendation: If you are interested to learn more about the Latin Quarter and the left bank in general, take the Rive Gauche Stroll by Context Travel.

49. Visit the Place de La Concorde

Place de la Concorde is one of the major squares in Paris filled with history.  One of the most notable events, this is the site where Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI were beheaded during the French Revolution.

Recommendation: For a wonderful tour on the French Revolution, take the Paris French Revolution History Tour by Context Travel.

50. Walk around The Luxembourg Palace Gardens

The Luxembourg Palace houses the French Senate but previously served as a royal residence.  By a reservation, you can tour The Luxembourg Palace.  Or, you can enjoy a nice leisurely walk through the perfectly maintained lawns, statues, gardens, flowers, and water features.

51. Walk across Pont Neuf

Pont Neuf is the oldest surviving bridge in Paris.  It crosses the Seine River with two spans: the left bank to the Ile de la Cite and the Ile de la Cite to the right bank.

Recommendation: To fully understand the right bank vs. the left bank, take the Introduction to Paris Tour by Context Travel, where a local scholar will “get an insider orientation tour of each bank’s origins, note significant architectural landmarks, and weave together relevant highlights from the city’s inception to its present day as a modern capital.”

52. Walk Some More Along the Canal St-Martin

Enjoy the quiet and tranquility along the Canal St-Martin.

53. Wine Taste

For all my wine lovers out there, Paris is the perfect city to visit!

Recommendation: To fully appreciate all the types of wine in France, take Bordeaux to Burgundy: Wines of France by Context Travel.  Cheers!

54. Wave to Marie-Antoinette at the Conciergerie

On the Ile de la Cite, go to the Conciergerie.  The Conciergerie use to be the location of the royal administration and law.  During the French Revolution, it became a prison where the famed Marie-Antoinette was held.  It is said that she still haunts the Conciergerie. So, give her ghost a wave.

55. Wake Up with an Espresso 

No Bucket List would be complete without a nod to the Parisian coffee culture!