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"There's nowhere quite like Paris and it's amazing to watch our guests light up when they see bucket list icons like the Eiffel Tower in real life. Don't forget to slow down and savour the freshly baked pastries from the local boulangerie and mingle with the locals in the sidewalk cafés and markets."

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See the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo at the Louvre

You can’t take a Paris trip without visiting the Louvre. It’s the both the largest art museum and the most-visited museum in the world, and you can soak it all in with our special evening experience at the Louvre. You’ll discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa with your Local Specialist and enjoy the quiet atmosphere without the crowds. Simply magical.

Visit the remarkable church of Saint-Sulpice

Paris is full of spectacular architecture, and the church of Saint-Sulpice may be one of the best. This medieval cathedral is the second-largest church in the city and your Paris travel guide will show you around the stunning facades, stained glass windows, impressive fountains, unique sundial, and the breathtaking organ, one of the largest in the world.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the River Seine

As the scenic centrepiece of Paris, you can’t miss exploring the iconic River Seine. We’ll wander along the pretty riverbank by day and take you on a special Seine cruise by night, when the City of Light is illuminated in twinkling lights. Look out for icons like the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame, and relax as you drift along this enchanting river.

Explore the Latin Quarter of Paris

When you travel Paris with Trafalgar, you’ll join a Local Specialist to discover the Latin Quarter, the city’s epicentre of culture, learning and creativity. See the ancient Sorbonne University, one of the world’s first universities, soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this student hotspot, and perhaps even stop by the legendary Shakespeare and Co bookstore.

Experience a traditional Parisian Cabaret

You’ve probably seen the Parisian Cabaret in dozens of movies and photos, but there’s nothing quite like experiencing the real thing. We’ll take you to the world-famous Moulin Rouge Cabaret, where you’ll enjoy dinner, champagne and a dazzling show of 60 dancers and over 1,000 costumes, for an incredible evening you’ll never forget.

Our top 5 things to do in Paris

With so many incredible Paris attractions to choose from, we’ll show you the very best things to do in Paris, from the beautiful Saint-Sulpice to the original Parisian cabaret.

Musée Rodin

Located just steps away from the Eiffel Tower, you can’t miss the spectacular Musée Rodin. Founded in 1916 by Auguste Rodin himself, the museum features the artist’s incredible sculptures within an 18th-century rocco mansion and a stunning three-hectare garden, along with his personal collection of paintings, photographs and ancient artefacts.

Paris Opera & Palais Garnier

If you want to experience the height of Parisian opulence, it’s got to be the Palais Garnier. This extraordinary building is a 1,979-seat opera house constructed in the late 19th-century, and is renowned as the setting for The Phantom of the Opera. Today you can discover its magnificent treasures or even spend a glitzy night at the opera or ballet.

Grand Palais

Located right across from the Champs-Élysées, the Grand Palais is an icon of Paris with its giant glass ceiling and Beaux-Arts style architecture. Its interior is even more thrilling, with national art galleries, science museums and exhibition halls all held under the famous dome, and you can easily spend a day or two here.

Best museums in Paris

When you travel Paris with Trafalgar, we’ll make sure you get your fill of the best Paris museums, from the iconic Louvre to the magnificent Opéra Garnier.

Ratatouille

Ratatouille is the ultimate French vegetarian dish, loved by all for its heartwarming local flavors. It’s essentially a vegetable stew, made with a rich tomato sauce and a rainbow of veggies like zucchini, eggplant and squash, and herbs like basil, garlic and thyme. One bite and you’ll fall in love with the home-cooked ratatouille of Paris.

One of France’s most famous recipes, Coq au Vin features wine-braised chicken served alongside ingredients like mushrooms and bacon. Across the country you will try many regional versions of this comforting dish, which translates fittingly to “rooster/cock with wine”.

French cuisine celebrates both savory and sweet ingredients, not just in the form of croissants. Find true street-food joy in the popular dessert of crêpes, with strawberries, Nutella, bananas and lemon curd just some of the toppings loved by locals and travelers alike. Or, try the national specialty crêpes Suzette with orange zest and caramelized butter.

Best food in Paris

Our Paris holidays are filled with the legendary Parisian cuisine, and we’ll show you all the best places to try your French favorites from fresh croissants to delicate desserts.

What to pack for Paris

French phrasebook

It’s a good idea to learn some common French phrases before arriving in Paris, and the locals are sure to appreciate your efforts to learn their mother tongue.

Camera & extra SD card

Paris is full of soul-stirring moments you’ll want to capture forever, so be sure to pack a few extra SD cards for all those special snaps and videos.

Comfortable shoes

Whether you’re wandering through the Louvre, or strolling along the River Seine, you’ll need a comfy pair of shoes on your Paris tour.

Formal wear

If you want to hit the town in Paris with a Moulin Rouge show or a night at the opera, be sure to bring a glamorous outfit to fit in with the chic locals.

All-weather clothing

Paris is known for its unpredictable weather, with rain one day and sunshine the next. It’s best to pack both warm and cooler layers so you’re prepared for everything.

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Top Tours in Paris, France

Paris tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator with Summit option

2. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator

3. Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music by Bateaux Mouches

4. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise

5. Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour from Paris

6. Louvre Museum - Exclusive Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)

7. Paris Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours

8. Paris Flexible Entrance Ticket to Musée d'Orsay with Audio Tour

9. Louvre Museum Timed Entry Ticket - Optional Private Guided Tour

10. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris

11. Louvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Reserved Access

12. Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional River Cruise

13. Paris Seine River Private Boat Tour

14. Versailles Domain Bike Tour with Palace and Trianon Estate Access

15. Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour by Train from Paris with Skip-the-Line

16. Seine River Guided Cruise with Snack Options by Vedettes de Paris

17. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide

18. Giverny Monet’s House and Gardens Half Day Tour from Paris

19. Guided Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit option

20. Louvre Museum Priority Access Guided Tour with Mona Lisa

21. Louvre Museum Semi-Private Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)

22. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise

23. Skip The Line Eiffel Tower with Optional Summit Access by Lift

24. Eiffel Tower Access Tour to 2nd Floor with Summit Option by Lift

25. Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour with a Fun Guide

26. Louvre Museum Ticket & Optional Seine River Cruise

27. Paris Catacombs: Skip-the-Line Catacombs Audio Guided Tickets

28. Loire Valley Castles Day Trip from Paris with Wine Tasting

29. Paris Gourmet Dinner Seine River Cruise with Singer and DJ Set

30. Paris French Bakery Behind the Scenes Experience

What travellers are saying.

• michael f 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nancy knows how to give a tour Nancy was excellent and exceeded all expectations - she was knowledgeable and funny - great energy. Nancy made sure we were able to see all the important stuff Read more Review of: Louvre Museum Paris Exclusive Guided Tour With Reserved Entry Written June 8, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

THE 10 BEST Paris Tours & Excursions

Tours in paris.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator with Summit option

2. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator

3. Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music by Bateaux Mouches

4. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise

5. Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour from Paris

6. Louvre Museum - Exclusive Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)

7. Paris Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours

8. Eiffel Tower Guided Elevator Tour (Summit Optional)

9. Louvre Museum Timed Entry Ticket - Optional Private Guided Tour

10. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris

11. Louvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Reserved Access

12. Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional River Cruise

13. Paris Seine River Private Boat Tour

14. Versailles Domain Bike Tour with Palace and Trianon Estate Access

15. Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour by Train from Paris with Skip-the-Line

16. Seine River Guided Cruise with Snack Options by Vedettes de Paris

17. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide

18. Giverny Monet’s House and Gardens Half Day Tour from Paris

19. Guided Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit option

20. Louvre Museum Priority Access Guided Tour with Mona Lisa

21. Louvre Museum Semi-Private Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)

22. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise

23. Paris Catacombs Skip-the-Line Tickets With Audio Guided Tour

24. Eiffel Tower Access Tour to 2nd Floor with Summit Option by Lift

25. Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour with a Fun Guide

26. Louvre Museum Ticket & Optional Seine River Cruise

27. Paris Catacombs: Skip-the-Line Catacombs Audio Guided Tickets

28. Loire Valley Castles Day Trip from Paris with Wine Tasting

29. Paris Gourmet Dinner Seine River Cruise with Singer and DJ Set

30. Skip The Line Eiffel Tower with Optional Summit Access by Lift

What travellers are saying.

• michael f 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nancy knows how to give a tour Nancy was excellent and exceeded all expectations - she was knowledgeable and funny - great energy. Nancy made sure we were able to see all the important stuff Read more Review of: Louvre Museum Paris Exclusive Guided Tour With Reserved Entry Written 8 June 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

FLASH SALE💥   Book now for   up to 60% off!

France Tours & Trips from Paris

Find your perfect adventure! We have 171 tours of France that start in Paris, France. The most popular month is September, and tour lengths range between 2 and 22 days.

171 France tour packages from Paris with 1,081 reviews

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

French Dream ( 6 days )

• In-depth Cultural

Best of France Tour

"The hotels were comfortable, they were clean and their breakfast buffet was good." Jasmin, traveled in September 2022

French Ring ( 11 days )

The Treasures of France including Normandy (8 Days)

"Her communication was excellent, always giving us 'heads up' before the action took place." BridgetteandRobertStartz, traveled in May 2019

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley (Classic, 8 Days)

"The scenery and stops were very interesting. We will be looking at Insight for future tours." Shirley, traveled in September 2019

Paris Explorer (8 Days)

"The location was good and the bus was in great shape." James, traveled in May 2023

Journey: Paris & Normandy Highlights National Geographic Journeys

"We loved the itinerary and the extra sites we visited. Alexiane took care to provide for the needs of individuals on our tour." Kathleen, traveled in June 2023

• River Cruise

The Must-see Sights of the Seine Valley (port-to-port cruise)

"I was kept informed & on promptly basis. A very professional approach by your staff" Paul, traveled in August 2022

• Christmas & New Year

Paris and Versailles

"Hotel and tours were good. It would help to have guidance on travel/transportation to tour meeting sites." Wayne, traveled in November 2022

Paris & Normandy (2024) (Paris to Paris, 2024)

Paris, Normandy, & Châteaux Country

"This tour was excellent and very well organized. Tour radar did an excellent job of communicating and managing payment for this trip." Terri, traveled in June 2023

WWII D-Day Landing Beaches & Battle of Normandy

"Extremely well organized. Highly recommended." Daniel, traveled in April 2023

France Family Journey: From Paris to Normandy and Beyond

"The tour was interesting, fun, and just the right balance of group and independent activities." Tanya, traveled in July 2023

Tailor-Made Private France Tour to Paris, Normandy and Loire Valley, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Best France Tour with Daily Departure

What people love about france tours from paris.

Brilliant tour guide Leila and amazing driver Brein, together with extraordinary sights and very good accommodation, made for an excellent experience on the 3 day bus tour. I also appreciated the priority entry for all the visits included.

Well organized. Bruno was a little difficult to understand at times. However he was well versed, patient and very approachable. Driver, Jojo, was excellent!

Wonderful tour. Top notch accommodations; very comfortable tour bus; courteous, friendly, and knowledgeable tour guide and driver. Restaurant selections were fine and we had sufficient time to explore on our own. Highly recommended.

Tours starting from Paris

• Paris to Paris tours (118)
• Paris to Nice tours (16)
• Paris to Arles tours (10)
• Paris to Barcelona tours (5)
• Family from Paris (137)
• River Cruise from Paris (80)
• Explorer from Paris (61)
• In-depth Cultural from Paris (33)
• Coach / Bus from Paris (27)
• Private from Paris (10)
• Bicycle from Paris (6)
• Self-Guided from Paris (5)
• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

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9 Great Paris Tours To Take in 2024 and Why

Sean Finelli Last Updated: February 21, 2024

Paris is one of the world’s most visited destinations due to the combination of great food, interesting culture, and many attractions to visit. That said, which attractions in Paris require a tour? This article details the top tours in Paris that you should definitely consider on your next trip to the city of light .

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our dedicated guide to Paris to help you plan your trip. Also, see our best Paris tours and how to visit Paris in a weekend .

Should You Take a Tour in Paris?

The best palace of versailles tours, the best lourve tours, the best eiffel tower tours, the best tours of the paris catacombs, the best parisian cusine food tours, the best day tours from paris, where to stay in paris.

Without a doubt, Paris is one of the best cities to take a tour. Yes, Paris is already a more expensive trip than some cities, but is it really worth skipping out on the chance to really understand the rich history of this famed city?

That’s what a local guide is here for. They’ll make sure you get to know the little tidbits about Parisians’ original feelings about the Eiffel Tower and so much more. You’ll leave Paris with a new appreciation that is sure to make you want to come back again and again.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if Paris tours are worth it .

A top day trip from Paris is certainly the Palace of Versailles , which is so astonishing that it will be easy to forget what century you’re in. As you stroll between rooms and chambers that redefine the meaning of “home,” you will even find that the toilets are opulent. Kings and queens lived here, and your guide will tell you about all their amazing stories right where they took place. There’s a reason Versailles has captured the attention of millions of visitors. Don’t miss your chance to see the almost indescribable Hall of Mirrors that’s adorned with gold, paintings, and chandeliers.

1. Ultimate Palace of Versailles Tour from Paris

Looking for an easy way to see the best of Versailles? Versailles is a popular day trip from Paris, but planning ahead to get tickets and transportation organized makes things so much easier! That’s why you’ll love our half-day small group tour with a local guide who’ll make sure you hop on the right train to Versailles, exit at the ideal stop, and skip the long lines at the palace. You’ll see the palace, gardens, and Trianon Estate more quickly and maximize your trip to Versailles from Paris. See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

2 . Versailles Gardens Tour from Paris with Skip the Line Palace Access

Should opulent palaces not be your thing, why not explore the gardens of Versaille with your expert guide instead? With a small group, you’ll take a guided tour to learn the fascinating history of the gardens before skipping the long lines at the Palace of Versailles to enjoy its splendor at your leisure. An essential Paris experience! See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of Versailles is worth it .

The Louvre houses the greatest museum collection on Earth. It spans over 60,000 meters and boasts 380,000 works of art. You may find yourself overwhelmed with the sheer mass of visitors—15,000 people a day clamor to see the Mona Lisa alone. But there’s so much to see before you even reach her!

1. Secrets of the Louvre Museum Tour with Mona Lisa

In this 3-hour tour, you’ll skip the line to find out more about the mystery behind Mona Lisa’s smile, discover other great works of art, and get up close and personal with the French crown jewels. With expert insights and stories that’ll bring the art to life, there’s no better way to see this unmissable museum!

See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

2. Louvre at Closing Time Tour with Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo

Want to skip the line and see the Louvre with fewer crowds? In this 2-hour Louvre tour at closing time, see the Louvre’s most iconic artwork, including the Mona Lisa , Winged Victory of Samothrace , Coronation of Napoleon , Venus di Milo , and more, with an engaging guide. It’s a great way to experience the museum in a short amount of time with the added benefit of fewer people getting in the way.

3. Private Louvre Tour with Expert Guide

In our Private Louvre Tour , get skip-the-line tickets and 3 hours with a local art-loving tour guide who can tailor your visit to your preferences. Want more time with Greek statues? No problem. Our professional guides are true experts who bring the Louvre collections to life. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the Mona Lisa , Venus de Milo , and more. These Louvre tours allow you to see the world’s largest museum with an expert guide at your disposal.

4. Semi-Private Louvre Tour with the Mona Lisa

So, you want to tour the Louvre, but you don’t want a big group? No problem! This is the ideal tour for getting an almost-private experience at a great price since your group size maxes out at just six people! You’ll have a more exclusive experience following your art historian guide through the treasures of the Louvre as you ask questions, hear stories, and watch as the evolution of millennia of art unfolds before your eyes.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of the Louvre is worth it .

“We protest against the erection of this useless and monstrous Eiffel Tower” was actually written in reaction to France’s most iconic monument in 1894. People were actually outraged by how ugly it was. Today, this 1,063-foot iron lattice tower still stands and attracts 7,000,000 visitors each year.

The long lines can be intimidating, and a visit is considered an all-day event. However, with our wide range of privileged access tours, Seine cruises, and family tours, we are sure to have something that fits your needs. There are two types of tourists! Those who stand in line and those who don’t. Which do you want to be?

1. Privileged Access Eiffel Tour at Night Tour with River Seine Cruise

Our Privileged Access Eiffel Tower Night Tour is a romantic evening without the lines. The tour starts at dusk with a boat ride on the Seine.

As the sun descends, the Eiffel Tower lights up and sparkles. Enjoy this magnificent sight with a glass of champagne and then climb the tower and witness amazing views of the city lit up at night.

2. Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit Access

Looking for a budget-friendly tour of the Eiffel Tower summit that’s ideal for active people? This guided climb of France’s most famous landmark gives you the chance to live that dream. You’ll climb the 674 steps to the tower’s second floor as your local guide tells you the story of its remarkable construction and troubled early history before taking the elevator to the summit for a well-earned rest and a truly remarkable view of Paris. Enjoy!

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of the Eiffel Tower is worth it .

The Catacombs are a labyrinth that can only be seen a few months of the year, which is why lines to get in can be up to 5 hours long. Although the Catacombs are hundreds of miles long, only one mile is open to the public. Tickets sell out months in advance, but our tours come with skip-the-line access and privileged access to a number of chambers usually closed to the public.

1. Paris Catacombs Tour with Secret Rooms & Privileged Access

Why are skeletons stacked up in intricate designs below Paris? Where did these skeletons come from? Why are there 6,000,000 of them? Discover one of the great mysteries of Paris without spending long hours waiting outside on a Paris Catacombs tour . 

With one of our passionate guides, explore underground Paris and learn the macabre details of these 200-year-old ossuaries. They will explain the incredible history, artwork, and unique architecture for a memorable experience of Paris’ Catacombs. See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out if a tour of the Paris Catacombs is worth it .

If you’re looking for amazing food, Paris is one of the best places to visit. There are more Michelin restaurants in this city than in any other city on Earth, and a local food tour is a fantastic way to experience Paris’ local food scene.

1. Le Marais Local Food Tour (Incredible Deal!)

Le Marais is the nerve center of gastronomical delights, which is why our Le Marais food tour is one of our most popular experiences. It’s also one of the only food tours in Paris to include oysters and a sit-down dinner! Enjoy a walking tour of the melting pot that is Le Marais, Normandy oysters and champagne, and falafel street food in the Jewish Quarter.

2. Chef Led Food Tour of Paris’ Montmartre District

Craving a genuine French culinary experience but don’t have the connections to call in a favor? That’s why we’ve joined forces with Chef PJ and his team of gastronomic experts, so you can join them in tasting Montmartre’s finest delicacies, indulge in a three-course feast with a wine pairing, and learn about iconic sites like the Moulin Rouge and the “I Love You” wall along the way

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our  Paris Guide for more resources.

The Best Private Tours of Musée d’Orsay

When people think of Paris, they tend to think of the Louvre and Eiffel Tower, and for good reason. Both attractions are epic! That said, the Musée d’Orsay would be the number one museum in almost any other city on Earth if it wasn’t in Paris.

1. Private Musée d’Orsay Tour with Skip-the-Line Tickets

While taking a private tour of any museum is a luxury, a private tour of Musée d’Orsay is even more amazing. Why? The museum doesn’t get the same crowds as the Louvre, and the paintings demand an explanation. They are all very beautiful and recognizable, but Impressionism is best explained through a lens into the artist’s life—something that a local tour guide does best in an intimate experience like a private tour. See the tour itinerary, price, and description.

Not ready to book a tour? Find out how to visit the Musée d’Orsay .

1. Castles and Wine Tastings in the Loire Valley Day Trip

One of my favorite things to do in Europe is explore the countryside. This is because the architecture is amazing, and the agriculture is heavily focused on wine, which together makes for a beautiful experience. I also love having countryside lunches. They tend to be hearty, warm, and full of wine!

The Loire Valley is famous for castles and amazing dry white wines.

Our day trip to the Loire Valley not only explores an amazing castle but also includes a stop at a vineyard for a wine tasting. It will make for an incredible memory you will hold dear for the rest of your days!

2. Pay Tribute To D-Day at Normandy Beach

From “Saving Private Ryan” to stories from our ancestors, Normandy is famous for the great sacrifices of brave men in the face of tyranny. Today, you can visit different beaches from Omaha to Pointe du Hoc to pay respects. The beaches of Normandy, where World War II was viciously fought, have been kept as it was, down to bullet holes, craters, and cannon shells.

Our Normandy day trip of D-Day landing beaches visits Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and even a Cider brewery—the region’s specialty. This day trip is most definitely long—14 hours in total—but if you have an extra day and are passionate about WWII, it’s well worth the time.

3. Explore the Champagne Region on a Day Trip

Should you be looking for a day trip to remember—and you’re a fan of champagne—then a trip to the Champagne region is a must. The French countryside is waiting to take you on a culinary journey from wine cellars to champagne houses and a tasty spot for lunch.

This tour includes stops in the cities of Reims and Épernay, where you can see the famous Reims cathedral and explore Dom Perignon’s final resting place in the Benedictine monastery in Épernay. Your day in the countryside will be unforgettable.

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

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About Sean Finelli

Sean is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He studied finance and statistics, but that is his "Dr. Jekyll" side! His "Mr. Hyde" is in love with travel, art, history, and culture. Sean has read libraries of historical text and believes that all internet content should come from books. A practice he follows!

Reader Interactions

Comments (6).

October 5, 2019

Paris is Paris is Paris, no other city can compare .

Paris is Paris is Paris, no other city can compare .I love Paris,love France but dislike the French…..And Iwas born and raise there………….

October 20, 2022

Is it worth it to get a tour guide, though?

November 8, 2022

We might be biased, but it really is. You can either wander these amazing locations or monuments and not really know what’s so significant (or that you just passed the first painting by a world-famous painter), or you can learn so many incredible details and stories about these places and art. Tour guides truly do elevate your experience and make it more memorable.

November 30, 2022

Hello Brie, yeah, that makes sense. I also hate getting lost 😀 I have been looking around on your tours, and it seems that they are not customizable? Something like this https://gowithguide.com/france/paris

December 28, 2022

Our private tours can be customized within the museum or locations it already includes. So for instance, if you want more time in the Greek sculptures than in a room of impressionism, just let your guide know.

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From the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower, few cities compare to Paris's combination of elegance and history. It has created some of the world's best art, as well as defined the essence of romance for locals and visitors alike.

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Paris has captured the world’s imagination for its romance, style, and beauty. Walking down the streets of the City of Light, it’s easy to see why. A capital city of global significance, Paris will stun you with its art, boulevards, and buildings. There’s so much to see and do in Paris, and our tours guarantee that you get under the city’s skin.

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Immerse yourself in all things Parisian, on one of our tours of the many iconic attractions in Paris, such as the Louvre  and the  Eiffel Tower . And don’t feel limited to explore by foot or road either. We offer numerous tours that show you Paris from the water. Sail down the Seine as you sip champagne for a different perspective on the City of Light! You also have the option of exploring Paris when the sun goes down for an even more romantic experience of this beautiful city.

When you wish to explore a little further afield, join us on one of our day tours from Paris . Get a taste for French Royal court life with a visit to Versailles, discover the magical Loire Valley or visit the beaches of Normandy and understand how D-Day helped the allies win the war.

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8 best things to do in France: the most unmissable experiences from Paris to Provence and beyond

May 23, 2024 • 7 min read

Embrace the serene majesty of the Hautes-Pyrenees from Gavarnie, one of France's best places to visit © Justin Paget / Getty Images

Nicola is one of the writers on the newest France guidebook. She makes tough choices to narrow down the most quintessential French experiences to help you plan an amazing trip. 

Plotting a dream trip to France is not only about joining the dots between bucket list sights and places: Paris’s eyesore-to-icon tower , royally palatial Château de Versailles , medieval Carcassonne , papal Avignon , Provence’s lavender fields and jet-set St-Tropez , Normandy ’s D-Day landing beaches and Impressionist portfolio en plein air…the list is long.

No, a grand tour of France befitting of the country’s Herculean history, cuisine and cultural heritage (this is, after all, the world’s most visited country, with 72.3 million annual tourists in 2023) is a unique journey into its heart and soul. It requires time and thought unraveling why cooks in the north use salted butter and those in the south, tangy olive oil. It might mean tracking down forgotten cuisine bianca ("white cuisine") in Riviera backcountry or puzzling out megalithic menhirs in Brittany and prehistoric cave art in the Dordogne. Depending which region you explore, it most definitely means mingling with Alsatians, Euskalduna or Ch’tis perhaps at an open-air market or zinc bar. In a nutshell: feel the intoxicating pulse of French art de vivre. 

Whether you're traveling solo or en couple, on a multi-generational family adventure, or fun foray with girlfriends or mates: France delivers. Here are eight top things to do to weave into your trip. As the French will tell you, it’s all about savoir-faire (know how). 

1. Acquaint yourself with traditional French cuisine in an old-school bistro

Pepper a city break in Paris , Marseille or Bordeaux with lunch at a traditional bistro, minted to feed workers in the 19th century. Expect tightly packed tables, old-fashioned decor and the daily menu du jour chalked on the board. Chefs take their lead from local, seasonal produce at the market – meaning asparagus and strawberries in spring, earthy game in fall and winter scallops. Die-hard bistro dishes like steak frites (steak and fries), tête de veau (rolled calf’s head), boeuf bourguignon (beef and red wine stew) and garlicky snails in their shells –  unchanged for centuries – are year-round staples.

Classic bistros include Bistrot Paul Bert and L’Epi d’Or in Paris, Marseille’s Sépia , and Bordeaux’s Le Bouchon Bordelais . In famously foodie Lyon , where diehard traditional bistros are called bouchons , try mâchon – an offal-based brunch enjoyed by 18th-century silk weavers after a hard night’s work – at Le Mercière or Le Café du Peintre .

Local tip: The most authentic bistros only open for lunch and dinner weekdays; plan accordingly. Reserve a table well in advance. 

The 10 best food experiences in France

2. Follow pilgrim ghosts to an ancient abbey or time-forgotten town

Be it navigating quicksand (giggles galore guaranteed!) on a hallowed trek to abbey-island Mont St-Michel , galloping a white Camargue horse across the beach in Stes-Marie de la Mer or celebrating mass at dawn with fellow hikers in Le Puy-de-Velay , emulating the original pilgrim experience is the secret to understanding France’s trove clutch of treasured pilgrim sites. Throughout the Middle Ages, noblemen paid poorer members of society to undertake pilgrimages on their behalf and it is gleaning such backstories in situ that bring Lourdes, Chartres, Mont St-Odile near Strasbourg in Alsace and dozens of stops on the French chunk of the Camino de Santiago to life. 

Planning tip : Book barefoot hikes across the sand at sunrise or sunset to otherwise-rammed Mont St-Michel with accredited guides Romain Pilon or Les Traversées de Ludo .

3. Soak up French joie de vivre on a sun-drenched cafe terrace

Lounging over coffee or an apéro (aperitif) on a pavement terrace is one of France’s great sensual delights. Cornerstone of local life and prime people-watching territory, cafes range from vintage  tabacs (selling newspapers, cigarettes and drinks) to fashionista hangouts with locally roasted coffee, tapas-fueled cocktails and live music after dark. Many are drenched in history: drink with the ghosts of Simone de Beauvoir, Jean-Paul Sartre and Ernest Hemingway on Place de la Contrescarpe in Paris’ Latin Quarter or with early alpinists setting off to conquer Mont Blanc in Chamonix’s art nouveau Rose du Pont.

Local tip: Cafe terraces on streets and squares around a town’s open-air or covered food market – Les Halles in Bayonne is a buzzy Basque classic – are foolproof choices for a quintessentially French, coffee-and-croissant breakfast.

4. Sand-sail on the shimmering Côte d’Opale

Harness the wind aboard a char à voile (sand yacht) to get under the salt-encrusted skin of le nord and its famous swathes of wind-whipped sand beach, white-cliff coastline and overdose of bad weather. The preposterous idea of flying down flat-sand runways on three wheels took off in northern France around 1905, and by the 1950s every self-respecting beach town had a sand-sailing club. Sign up for an initiation session in Fort Mahon-Plage in the Baie de Somme, Le Touquet on the handsome Côte d’Opale or St-Aubin-sur-Mer in Normandy.

Local tip: Warm up afterwards with a portion of frites (fries), doused in brown vinegar and wrapped in paper, from the local friterie (chippie), which you can scarf down between wind gusts on the beach.

5. Taste the world’s most famous bubbles in unsung Aÿ

It’s only fitting that champagne originates in the town where every French king was crowned, cementing its unshakeable "wine of the kings and King of Wines" pedigree. Reims’ Gothic cathedral – second only to Paris’ Notre Dame in architectural magnificence – and the town’s chalk-chiseled cellars steadfastly remain Champagne’s honeypot tourist sights. In Épernay luxurious champagne houses and 200 million-odd bottles of aging bubbly pave illustrious Avenue de Champagne. Offset this decadence with down-to-earth bike rides between vines, producer tastings and a roast chicken lunch in the tiny village of Aÿ .

6. Green your carbon footprint in the Alps or the Pyrenees

France’s spectacular kaleidoscope of natural landscapes – green valleys where time slops, razor-sharp mountain peaks and ice-blue glaciers – is ribboned with sentiers de grande randonnée (long-distance hiking trails). Tackle a short section. Deep in the French Alps, day-hike up the dizzying Tête de la Maye – rock-embedded cables and rungs assist with vertiginous sections – to gaze down on a dead-end valley in Parc National des Écrins so remote its inhabitants decamp in winter. Listen to the sublime peace.

In the Pyrenees , ride Europe’s highest open-air train to hook up with the GR10 trail. Or save your Pyrenean adventure for October when beech forests glow gold, winter’s first snow sparkles on summits and the summer crowd visiting  Cirque de Gavarnie ’s dramatic amphitheater of crashing waterfalls has long gone. 

Local tip: Overnight in a refuge (mountain hut), shepherd’s hut or mazot (miniature alpine chalet used for storing tools or valuables). The few that remain open in winter can only be reached by snowshoe or touring ski. 

The 8 best hikes in France

7. Embrace chateau life

It’s not only about picking your jaw up from the floor in Versailles ’ Hall of Mirrors, gawping at Chambord ’s rooftop mirage of fancy-pants spires and chimney pots, or swooning over the leafy derivations of amour in Château de Villandry ’s ornamental "Love Gardens." Romantics seeking fairytale chateaux gravitate to Renaissance France’s showpiece Loire Valley , but overtly rural regions such as the Lot, Dordogne and Languedoc squirrel away many more.

Many chateaux are rustic, grassroot properties where normal people live, work and craft. Dip into the ancestral knowledge of Médoc winegrowers on a cellar tour at Château Lynches-Bages . Learn about Burgundy’s unique UNESCO-listed climats at Château du Clos de Vougeot . Smell the angels’ share in sooty black Château de Cognac and the rare 150-year-aged cognac bottled in hand-blown glass at teeny Château de Montifaud . Indulge your ultimate French fantasy of a boozy lunch between vines at St-Émilion’s Château Troplong-Mondot or a dinner and a four-poster-bed kind of night at insanely romantic Château de la Treyne : the French directory of chateau hotel-restaurants and B&Bs is colossal.

8. Indulge in cheese-fueled fun in the Causses et Cévennes

Road-trip to the zone where the Cévennes mountains melt into the limestone Causses plateau to uncover central France’s most exhilarating natural wonder: Gorges du Tarn. Drive along the sinuous D907 balcony road, a route spectacularly wedged between overhanging rock and turquoise river, where every twist and turn casts new light on the dramatic gorge. Pick it up in the medieval village of Ste-Enimie. Pair the hair-raising drive with kayaking or canyoning and the stickiest cheese dish you’ll encounter on your entire French odyssey: aligot (cheesy mashed potato starring local tome fraiche d’Aubrac).

Detour: Drive an hour north into L’Aubrac to track down Buron de la Treille , the region’s last-remaining buron (shepherds’ stone hut) still making laguiole buron cheese. Tuck into aligot cooked up in a cauldron at buron-turned-resto Buron de l’Aubrac .

This article was first published Aug 6, 2022 and updated May 23, 2024.

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Top Tours in Paris, France

Paris tours.

• Historical & Heritage Tours
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• Up to 1 hour
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• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator with Summit option

2. Eiffel Tower Guided Tour by Elevator

3. Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music by Bateaux Mouches

4. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise

5. Versailles Palace and Gardens Skip-the-Line Tour from Paris

6. Louvre Museum - Exclusive Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)

7. Paris Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours

8. Louvre Museum Timed Entry Ticket - Optional Private Guided Tour

9. Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris

10. 2.5 - 3 Hour Walking Tour of Père Lachaise Cemetery from Paris

11. Louvre Museum Masterpieces Guided Tour with Reserved Access

12. Big Bus Paris Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Optional River Cruise

13. Paris Seine River Private Boat Tour

14. Versailles Domain Bike Tour with Palace and Trianon Estate Access

15. Versailles Palace and Gardens Tour by Train from Paris with Skip-the-Line

16. Paris Flexible Entrance Ticket to Musée d'Orsay with Audio Tour

17. Seine River Guided Cruise with Snack Options by Vedettes de Paris

18. Mont Saint Michel Day Trip from Paris with English Speaking Guide

19. Giverny Monet’s House and Gardens Half Day Tour from Paris

20. Guided Eiffel Tower Climbing Tour with Summit option

21. Louvre Museum Priority Access Guided Tour with Mona Lisa

22. Louvre Museum Semi-Private Guided Tour (Reserved Entry Included)

23. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise

24. Eiffel Tower Access Tour to 2nd Floor with Summit Option by Lift

25. Paris Top Sights Half Day Walking Tour with a Fun Guide

26. Louvre Museum Ticket & Optional Seine River Cruise

27. Paris Catacombs: Skip-the-Line Catacombs Audio Guided Tickets

28. Loire Valley Castles Day Trip from Paris with Wine Tasting

29. Paris Gourmet Dinner Seine River Cruise with Singer and DJ Set

30. Skip The Line Eiffel Tower with Optional Summit Access by Lift

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• michael f 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Nancy knows how to give a tour Nancy was excellent and exceeded all expectations - she was knowledgeable and funny - great energy. Nancy made sure we were able to see all the important stuff Read more Review of: Louvre Museum Paris Exclusive Guided Tour With Reserved Entry Written 8 June 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

The Paris Catacombs

A veritable labyrinth in the heart of underground Paris, the Catacombs were installed in the tunnels of former quarries.

Please read before you visit

Practical information

Online booking is strongly recommended (except free rate tickets).

Tuesday to Sunday

9:45 - 20:30

Last admission at 19:30

1 av. du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy 75014 Paris

29€/ 23€ (audioguide included)

Children (5-17): 10€

4 reasons to visit Catacombs

Twenty meters underground in a maze of galleries, visitors will discover an ossuary containing the remains of several million Parisians. This unique site recalls the history of these Parisians and invites visitors to take a timeless journey.

Site history

The ossuary

Architecture

Presentation by the director

C'est ici l'empire de la mort .

Entre exploration exclusive du site, images d’archives et commentaires scientifiques, cette vidéo permet de voyager dans le temps et de répondre à toutes vos questions sur les catacombes de Paris.

Découvrez la visite virtuelle en VOD

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Gifts and bookshop

21 bis avenue rené-coty.

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Latest news and updates on the Paris Olympics.

Countdown to Paris

The Olympics are nearly here. For a weary world, they can't come soon enough.

Swimming, cycling ... canine athletics? Test your knowledge of Olympic sports

Break-dancing busts into the Olympics for the first time. Here’s what to expect in Paris.

Take a tour of paris: iconic venues will provide a distinctly french backdrop at the olympics.

Photos: See how Paris has evolved from the 1924 Summer Olympics to today

More olympics news, caitlin clark will be left off the team usa roster for paris olympics, source says.

Paris Olympics organizers unveil a display of the five Olympic rings mounted on the Eiffel Tower

Russia is trying to scare people away from the Paris Olympics, report says

Simone Biles wins record ninth national championship and qualifies for Olympic trials

Simone Biles leads by 3 points after Day 1 of U.S. Championships

Shilese Jones pulls out of U.S. Championships and plans to petition to Olympic Trials

Chechnya teen was planning to attack soccer events during the Paris Olympics, officials say

American hurdler will get gold medal in Paris after losing in 2012 to Russian who was doping

U.S. Olympic break dancers ready to show off the sport's community and culture at Paris Games

Gymnastics legend Oksana Chusovitina to miss first Olympics since 1992

French authorities arrest suspect accused of planning violence during Olympic torch relay

Massive Olympic rings mounted on Eiffel Tower

Olympic rings installed on Eiffel Tower to mark 50 days to start of the Paris Games

Cookie Monster to join NBC’s coverage of Paris Olympics

Paris   Travel Guide

Courtesy of James Farley | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Paris

The best time to visit Paris is from June to August and September to October. Both summer and fall have its ups and downs. From June to August the weather in Paris is just about  parfait (perfect). Average highs are in the high 70s and there are long days of sunshine. Unfortunately, summer is also the most crowded time – and the most expensive. For lower travel rates and significantly shorter lines at attractions , plan a visit in the fall. The seasonal foliage is known to stun, though the city's spring blooms are pretty famous too. If a travel deal is all that you're after, a visit during the winter will surely shave off travel expenses. Keep in mind though that Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, seeing upward of 30 million travelers yearly. So no matter what time you visit, there will always be tourists and some crowds. 

Weather in Paris

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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'Pluie, rain': Taylor Swift sings in a downpour on Eras Tour's first night in Lyon, France

Mark the first night in Lyon, France, as a rain show for the Eras Tour .

"Pluie, rain," Taylor Swift exclaimed to the sold-out show inside Groupama Stadium as she floated onto the stage during the "Speak Now" era. ("Pluie" is French for rain.)

Gray clouds loomed over the open-roofed stadium for the first hour of Swift's first show in the city in Eastern France. The band played underneath tents on both sides of the stage. The VIP and production booths on the ground floor were in tents as well. Some audience members wore colorful ponchos.

What was a slow-start sprinkle during "Enchanted," turned into a full downpour minutes later in the "Reputation" era. Swift and her dancers embraced the rain as she belted, "Baby, let the games begin." The bulk of the water show happened as Swift performed in her red and black bodysuit.

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During the combined "Folklore"/"Evermore" set, Swift sat at the moss-covered piano and acknowledged the appearance from Mother Nature.

"We have officially had a rain show tonight and that is set," she said before performing "Champagne Problems." "That is permanent. It doesn't matter if it doesn't rain again."

'Happy Pride Month, Lyon'

During " You Need to Calm Down ," an LGBTQ anthem for some Swifties, the singer made mention of rainbow-laden June.

"Happy Pride Month, Lyon," she said as wristwatches across the stadium lit up in rainbow colors and the audience waved their hands back and forth.

The singer-songwriter has one more show Monday night in Lyon before heading to Edinburgh, Scotland, for three shows this weekend.

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the  free, weekly newsletter This Swift Beat.  

Follow Taylor Swift reporter Bryan West on  Instagram ,  TikTok  and  X as @BryanWestTV .