Things to do & places to visit in Ile-de-France, France

The palatial residences of Versailles and Fontainebleau, the romantic boulevards, stately museums and rich artistic history of Paris and charming villages within easy train trip's distance of the city make Ile-de-France an unbeatable destination. While big name attractions, such as Disneyland Paris, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Louvre, top the bill, visitors can sidle along the Seine, sip coffee on sidewalks and create their own memorable highlights in the City of Light and its surroundings.

Ile-de-France #1 destination in France 2023. The average rating score is 4.42 based on 915.0k traveler reviews, of 255 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Paris, current date and time: Tuesday, May 07, 2024, 11:59.

Top things to do (30)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Team Break Aeroville (2.299 reviews)
- Top
Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Team Break : The Real Escape Room & Quiz Room in Aéroville! Form your team and take part in a unique adventure. You have 60 minutes to try to complete your mission, so ... Are you ready ? Let's go ! See more..
5.0 Team Break La Défense (2.178 reviews)
- Amazing experience!
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Team Break : The Real Escape Room and Quiz Room in Paris La Défense (Courbevoie) ! Form your team and take part in a unique adventure. You have 60 minutes to try to complete your mission, so ... Are you ready ? Let's go ! See more..
4.5 Eiffel Tower (141.8k reviews) from $21.41
- A True Worldwide Icon
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 11:45 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Observation Decks & Towers

Completed in 1889, this colossal landmark, although initially hated by many Parisians, is now a famous symbol of French civic pride. See more..
4.5 Louvre Museum (102.2k reviews) from $33.19
- So worth it
Tuesday: Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Art Museums

As one of the largest, oldest, and grandest museums in the world, the Louvre hosts a treasure trove of artworks spanning diverse cultures and periods of history. Marvel at the museum’s greatest hits: the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, Winged Victory, and stunning collections of prized paintings and Greek and Roman statues. It’s not possible to see all of the museum in one visit, so be inspired to return for your next trip to Paris. Buy timed-entry tickets online to skip the lines as the museum is usually packed. You can also join a guided tour to enjoy a curated experience organized and led by an expert. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris (71.5k reviews)
- STILL A MONUMENTAL EXTERIOR
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Churches & Cathedrals

The iconic Notre Dame Cathedral Paris—meaning ‘Our Lady of Paris’—is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture. Built back in the 12th century, the important monument has witnessed many historical events. It has also inspired Victor Hugo’s story of the Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Outside the cathedral, you can admire its grand exterior which is framed by an elegant pair of bell towers, stained glass windows and an ornately decorated facade with grand statues. You can also enter the cathedral for a small entrance fee to view Nio-Gothic artwork and furniture as well as join their weekly sessions. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Musée d'Orsay (66.8k reviews) from $20.34
- how to beat the queues
Tuesday: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Art Museums

Musée d'Orsay in Paris is a must-visit for art lovers and travelers alike. It's famous for its impressive collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist art, making it one of the largest in the world. Housed in a stunning former railway station on the Seine, the museum is just as beautiful on the outside as it is on the inside. Don't miss the famous clock face, which is part of the museum's exhibition. For an in-depth experience, you might want to join a private or group tour. Visit in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy a quieter museum experience. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Arc de Triomphe (45.8k reviews) from $13.92
- Bring your camera!
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Monuments & Statues

The Arc de triomphe was begun in 1806, on the orders of Napoleon I to honour the victories of his Grande Armée. Inspired by the great arches of antiquity, the monument combines the commemorative with the symbolic and it has always played a major role in the national republican consciousness. Every evening, the flame is lit on the tomb of the Unknown Soldier from the Great War. An exhibition portrays the history and explains its symbolic importance, nationally as well as internationally. The terrace provides superb views both by day and night across the city and its great sweeping avenues.-Opening hours : April to September: from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.; October to March: from 10 a.m. to 10.30 p.m.-Closed: 1st January, 1st May, 8th May (morning), 14th July (morning), 11th November (morning), 25th December-Entry fees: Adults = 9,5 €; Concessions = 6 €; Free admission: 18-25 years old* (citizens of one of the 27 countries of the EU or are non-European permanent residents of France) * excluding school groups See more..
4.5 Basilique du Sacre-Coeur de Montmartre (39.2k reviews)
- Beautiful, especially at nighttime
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Churches & Cathedrals

This Montmartre landmark, a 19th-century basilica built by the French government following the Franco-Prussian War, features a large medieval dome that provides excellent views of the city. See more..
4.5 Luxembourg Gardens (35.3k reviews)
- Gorgeous gardens and statuary with much historical relevance
Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks • Gardens

Luxembourg Gardens is a charming oasis in the heart of Paris, loved by both locals and travelers alike. With 55 acres of manicured gardens, it's the perfect place to unwind and soak up the Parisian atmosphere. You can admire the beautifully arranged flower beds, towering trees, and the grand Luxembourg Palace which overlooks the gardens. In the summer, the park is great for picnics and family outings. Be sure to check out the pétanque (lawn bowling) and chess areas, too. To learn more about the park's rich history, consider joining a walking tour of the gardens. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Sainte-Chapelle (27.8k reviews) from $21.41
- Simply Awe-Inspiring
Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Churches & Cathedrals

The Sainte-Chapelle is the finest royal chapel to be built in France and features a truly exceptional collection of stained-glass windows. It was built in the mid 13th century by Louis IX, at the heart of the royal residence, the Palais de la Cité. It was built to house the relics of the Passion of Christ. Adorned with a unique collection of fifteen glass panels and a large rose window forming a veritable wall of light,the Sainte-Chapelle is a gem of French Gothic architecture. Designated world heritage site by UNESCO. Open:> 1st March to 31st October: Monday to Friday: from 9.30 a.m. to 12.45 a.m. and to 2.15 p.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: from 9.30 a.m. to 6 p.m.> 1st November to 29th February: Monday to Friday: from 9 a.m. to 12.45 a.m. and to 2.15 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last admission 30 minutes before closing time. The best time to visit is in the morning from Tuesday to Friday. Closed:> 1st January, 1st May and 25th December and in case of negative temperatures. See more..
4.5 Seine River (25.7k reviews)
- Batobus
Bodies of Water

Hop on a river cruise or stroll alongside this famous waterway—it flows through the heart of Paris and separates the city's left and right banks. See more..
4.5 Montmartre (20.2k reviews)
- Great views and delicious waffles
Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

Discover another side of Paris in Montmartre, a charming artists’ enclave filled with quirky cafes and shops. Enjoy a splendid view of the city from Sacré-Coeur, watch artists at work at Place du Tertre, visit the Wall of Love, where the phrase “I love you” is scribbled in hundreds of languages, catch the famous Moulin Rouge show or visit Paris’ oldest vineyard. For fewer crowds, visit Montmartre early in the morning. Wear comfortable shoes as the area is hilly with cobblestone streets. You can also hop on the white Little Train of Montmartre for free with the Paris Pass. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Palais Garnier (19.8k reviews) from $0.00
- Definitely a must visit
Architectural Buildings • Theaters

This opulent 19th-century opera house is known for its magnificent interiors and the amazing performances by the Paris Opera Ballet. See more..
4.5 Musée de l’Orangerie (17.4k reviews) from $18.63
- Monet's huge works
Tuesday: Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums

Most famous for its display dedicated to Monet's Water Lilies, this gallery in the Tuileries Gardens has a wide collection of impressionist and post-impressionist works. See more..
4.5 Pont Alexandre III (17.4k reviews)
- Most ornate bridge in Paris
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Bridges

Extravagant structure spanning the river Seine with most noticeable gilded bronze statues of Fames, each restraining Pegasus, on tall pedestals. On the left bank the Pegasus is being restrained by the Fame of Commerce and the Fame of Industry, on right bank by the Fame of the Sciences and the Fame of the Arts. A beautiful bridge from above and below. See more..
4.5 Le Marais (12.9k reviews)
- A vibrant & Eclectic Neighbourhood
Neighborhoods

Get lost in one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris, brimming with unique boutiques and stylish art galleries. Besides its vibrant LGBTQIA community, Le Marais also has a rich Jewish heritage, with winding streets lined with historic medieval architecture. If you're looking for a night out, head to one of the many gay bars or clubs that the area is known for. Take a walking tour to discover fascinating insights about the neighborhood, or a food tour to have a taste of the area's vibrant culinary scene—travelers say the falafel is some of the best! Visit during the week for fewer crowds and wear comfortable walking shoes to navigate the neighborhood's cobblestone streets. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Musée Rodin (12.7k reviews) from $19.49
- One of the most beautiful musuems
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Located in this 18th-century hotel (Hotel Biron), Musee Rodin holds an impressive collection of works by this famous French sculptor and his circle as Camille Claudel. The museum also features an exquisit garden and a temporary exhibition hall. See more..
4.5 Jardin des Tuileries (7.640 reviews)
- Walk, Site, Absorb the History
Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 9:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Gardens

Located within the Place de la Concorde, this garden demonstrates the Parisian style of intricate landscaping. See more..
4.5 Musee de l’Armee des Invalides (6.837 reviews) from $19.27
- A full day we’ll spent for military fans
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums

Located right in the heart of Paris in the prestigious of the Hôtel national des Invalides, the museum is to one of the largest military history and art collections in the world, offering a unique overview of the history France. It is one of the 5 most visited museums in France, with over 1.4 million visitors in 2015. A remarkable site full of history, the Hôtel des Invalides was founded by Louis XIV to house veterans and wounded soldiers. It now forms the unique, prestigious setting the Musée de l’Armée. The museum's collections contain over 500.000 pieces, covering a period from the Middle Ages up to the present day and following a newly designed educational route: the armour and weapons of the Kings of France, swords, cannons, uniforms, paintings, photographs, the personal effects of important figures such as Françis I, Louis and Charles de Gaulle, plus the Dome church, which since 1861 has been home to the monumental tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, its golden dome reaching into the skies of Paris at over 110 metres high. See more..
4.5 Saint Germain des Pres Quarter (6.814 reviews)
- Unassuming outside, magnificent inside Church
Tuesday: Neighborhoods • Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites

Located in Église de Saint Germain des Prés Quater, this is the oldest standing church in Paris. The exterior of the church is typical of early Paris with an unassuming exterior and a magnificent interior. Another beautiful Paris church that gives visitors a sense of peace and tranquility. If you enjoy churches and beautiful things, visit Église de Saint Germain des Prés. See more..
4.5 Père-Lachaise Cemetery (6.747 reviews)
- Raphael's Tour
Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Cemeteries

This famous cemetery is the burial site of numerous French luminaries - authors, writers, musicians and more. See more..
4.5 Place des Vosges (5.704 reviews)
- Pleasant, tucked away Park and Square
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Paris's oldest public square has a meticulously manicured central park and is surrounded by beautiful 17th-century townhouses. See more..
4.5 Observatoire Panoramique de la Tour Montparnasse (5.688 reviews)
- We loved it
Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 10:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Observation Decks & Towers

Montparnasse Observation Deck offers a unique, spectacular panoramic view! This unique view point, which overlooks Paris from a height of 200 meters, offers a360° view of the capital, with a stunning 25 miles of visibility on clear days .Day and night, enjoy a spectacular, breathtaking view of the City of Lights. Ideally located in the Montparnasse neighbourhood, this unique, central view point in Paris allows you to see all of the city's most famous attractions and monuments: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the familiar streets and rooftops... Two viewing levels: The 56th covered floor : a modern and comfortable space, with displays that help visitors better understand its history and its dynamism : exhibition about historic Paris, interactives terminals and panorama. Also, one site food and beverage options and souvenirs shop, - The outdoor terrace at 210 meters high which was designed to maximise the astonishing view of Paris. During the summer you can enjoy the unforgettable view from the Champagne bar* while sipping bubbly. See more..
4.5 Île de la Cité (5.328 reviews)
- Historic Center of Paris
Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas • Islands

This is the historical center of Paris, but with the exception of the Palais de Justice between Sainte Chapelle and the Conciergerie, it's now mostly a small island with mostly tourist attractions-all historic though. Best to take at least a day or two if you really want to explore it. There are the bridges, Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle, and the Conciergerie - all of which are must-sees. Best to get combination tickets for Sainte Chapelle and Conciergerie. Notre Dame can be seen from the outside and will hopefully open in the spring of 2024 before the Olympics begin. Best to take the metro, bus, or a taxi to get here as driving here on your own makes no sense, unless you have access to private parking as it's very limited. See more..
4.5 Ile Saint-Louis (4.791 reviews)
- Joyeux Noël à Paris
Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Islands

Cobble-stoned neighborhood featuring quiet shops, cafes and bistros. See more..
4.5 Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte (4.523 reviews)
- Spectacular Chateau was the inspiration for Versailles
Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Castles

Vaux le Vicomte is the creation of three men brought together by Nicolas Fouquet, Louis 14th's finance minister, the landcape architect Andre le Nôtre, the architect Louis le Vau and the painter-decorator Charles le Brun. The perfect harmony between architecture and landscape is the result of their collaborative genius. From its unveiling at the famous fête of august 17th, 1661, Vaux le Vicomte aroused the envy of the Sun King and became the model that inspired the whole of Europe, including Versailles.Vaux le Vicomte can be visited during the day or at night with 2000 candles (on Saturdays from may to beginning of october)Easy access by train or by bus from paris. See more..
4.5 Latin Quarter (4.073 reviews)
- Vibrant and dynamic neighbourhood
Tuesday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

This famous Left Bank neighborhood, so named because the numerous university students in the area spoke only Latin to their professors until the French Revolution, preserves an authentic Parisian atmosphere of old. See more..
4.5 Musee Jacquemart-Andre (4.039 reviews) from $34.99
- Excellent choice for art
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums

Built by Edouard André and his wife Nélie Jacquemart, both avid art collectors, in the new Paris being laid out by Baron Haussmann towards the end of the 19th century, this private mansion offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore a wealthy 19th century home.The museum presents a wonderful collection of masterpieces: Fragonard, Rembrant, Botticelli… This is the only museum open seven days a week in Paris, from 10am to 6pm. See more..
4.5 Musee Marmottan Monet (4.025 reviews)
- must visit for a monet fan
Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums

Located in a 19th-century mansion, this museum's fabulous collection of Impressionist paintings ranks second only behind the Musée d'Orsay. Museum Marmottan Monet is the setting for the world's largest collection of works by Claude Monet and Berthe Morisot. As one of the foundations of the Académie des Beaux-Arts, the Musée Marmottan opened to the public on June 21, 1934. In keeping with its founder’s wishes, the small or ancillary rooms (kitchens, bathrooms, etc.) disappeared in order to create bigger spaces and facilitate visitor circulation. Apart from this physical adaptation, other changes awaited the museum as the aura of the Académie des Beaux-Arts attracted new donations and bequests. The museum enriched its collections and opened a new chapter in its history. See more..
4.5 Chateau de Fontainebleau (3.524 reviews)
- Breathtaking
Tuesday: Spent 1-2 hours Architectural Buildings • Castles • Gardens

With over 1500 rooms at the heart of 130 acres of parkland and gardens, Fontainebleau is the only royal and imperial château to have been continuously inhabited for seven centuries. A visit to Fontainebleau opens up an unparalleled view of French history, art history and architecture. See more..