Looking for the most famous Paris landmarks to see and cross off your bucket list? Then keep reading for a complete list of the 12 most famous landmarks you need to see while in Paris.
Paris is one of the most historic cities in the world. As a result, it is absolutely packed with historic landmarks and structures just waiting to be discovered. Viewing them is one of the best ways to see and experience the past while living in the present. This list of the 12 most famous Paris landmarks compiles some of the best and most beautiful in the city that everyone needs to see at least once while touring France.
Keep reading for the 12 most famous Paris landmarks.
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12 Famous Paris Landmarks You MUST SEE
In This Post
Eiffel Tower
- Location: Champ de Mars, 5, avenue Anatole France – 7th district
Both day and night the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most striking landmarks in the world. It is the symbol of Paris and one of the most famous Paris landmarks dominating the skyline at 312-meters tall. As one of the most popular landmarks and attractions in Paris, the Eiffel Tower attracts thousands of people each day eager to see and admire it. In fact, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited landmarks in the world.
This 1889 beauty is a must-see while in Paris, and truthfully something everyone should see at least once in their life. There is a magic to this structure that can only be appreciated in person. It is a good idea to see the Eiffel Tower both day and night because it varies greatly over the course of the day. During the day it is vibrant and lively and at night when the tower is lit with thousands of lights it is super romantic. Sitting on the grass and admiring it is one of the most romantic things to do in Paris!
The Louvre
- Location: 99, rue de Rivoli, 1st district
The Louvre is one of the most famous museums in the world that has been featured in countless films and stories. No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to The Louvre to see and experience one of the world’s most famous cultural and historic hotspots. The iconic glass pyramid of The Louvre is easily one of the most famous Paris landmarks to add to your must-see list. And the beauty and magic only increase once you are inside!
Arc de Triomphe
- Location: Avenue Charles de Gaulle – 8th District
The Arc de Triomphe is one of the largest arcs in the world and one of the most famous Paris landmarks to visit. It is located at the end of the iconic Champs-Elysée and is one of the most electric places in the city. The roundabout road that surrounds it is packed with row upon row of cars and is beyond hectic. While the huge white stone arch that sits in the middle is mesmerizing.
The Arc de Triomphe honours the soldiers from the French Revolutionary, Napoleonic Wars and World War who fought and died. Where, up close, you can see their names carved into the structure. Visitors are also permitted to climb to the top of the Arc for stunning aerial views of Paris.
Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur
- Location: 35, rue du Chevalier de la Barre – 18th district
Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris and the second most visited church in the city after Notre Dame. It is an absolutely breathtaking church located in the famous Montmartre. As one of the most famous Paris landmarks, the Basilica of the Sacré-Coeur is one of the top places visitors should visit while in Paris. Beyond its exterior beauty, it offers plenty of other amazing features.
It is located atop a 130-meter high hill and offers some of the most stunning views of Pairs. Climbing to the higher dome of the Basilica will give you the best views. The interior homes a huge mosaic on the floor and there is even a crypt open to the public. Although it is a little outside the main parts of Paris, venturing here is a must.
Les Invalides
- Location: 129, rue de Grenelle – 7th district
Les Invalides is a stunning structure in Paris that is home to Musée de l’Armée, the National Military Museum, the Musée des Plans-Reliefs, and the tomb Napoleon Bonaparte. The exterior is known for its huge gold dome, immaculate gardens, and huge size that is only realized in person. As one of the most famous Paris landmarks, you cannot miss an adventure here.
Notre Dame Cathedral
- Location: 6, place du Parvis Notre Dame – 4th district
The Notre Dame Cathedral is one of the most visited places in the city and an architectural masterpiece. It is one of the most important cathedrals in the world and no visit to Paris is complete without visiting this iconic Gothic structure. Construction began in 1163 and took two centuries to complete!
You will have no problem finding this famous Paris landmark with its huge size and loud chiming bells. From the outside, the details are ornate and magical, and then inside is just as breathtaking. The 43-meter-high ceilings and detailed stonework are something to admire.
Musée d’Orsay
- Location: 1, rue de la Légion d’Honneur – 7th district
Musée d’Orsay is a beautiful museum located in an old train station. It is not quite as famous as The Louvre, but still, one of the most famous Paris landmarks to add to your must-see list. Here you will find various artworks dating back hundreds of years, and the art collection is nothing short of amazing! The location in the train station only adds to the magic as the atmosphere is super unique.
Sainte-Chapelle
- Location: 10 Boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris, France
Sainte-Chapelle is easily one of the most beautiful churches in Paris, and maybe even in the whole world. It is a gothic-style chapel that will wow you from the moment you walk inside. It is one of the most famous Paris landmarks that showcase the cities detailed beauty. It was built in the 13th century for King Louis IX and it truly is a church made for a king.
Entering the church will show you thousands of stained glass windows with beautiful and detailed designs. There is nothing quite like it in the world.
Pont Alexandre III
- Location: Pont Alexandre III, 75008 Paris, France
Pont Alexandre III is a stunning bridge in Paris that is more than just a bridge. It connects 3 of the most iconic and famous Paris landmarks: the Champs-Élysées, the Invalides buildings and the Eiffel Tower. The bridge is 160 meters long and is decorated with ornate stone detailing and gold accents. Walking across it is a Paris bucket list must-do.
Luxembourg Palace
- Location: 15 Rue de Vaugirard, 75291 Paris, France
Luxembourg Palace is a 17th century Paris gem located in the breathtaking 6th arrondissement of Paris. It was built as a royal residence in the French Baroque architecture style. Luxembourg Palace is surrounded by the beautiful Luxembourg Garden making the entire area a wonderful place to explore! It is one of the most famous Paris landmarks to visit and explore to see and experience the old royal history of Paris.
Panthéon
- Location: Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris, France
Panthéon is a unique monument in Paris that was built in the second half of the 18th century. It is one of the most incredible and famous Paris landmarks that is worth a visit. The interior is stunning with beautiful paintings and statues. Plus the basement is brilliant.
Grand Palais
- Location: Avenue Winston Churchill – 8th district
Grand Palais is a beautiful building located beside the Champs-Elysées. It homes various exhibits and is HUGE! In fact, the size of the Grand Palais is equal to more than seven soccer fields. One of its most notable features is the huge glass ceiling!
Where to Stay in Paris
Use this map to find the perfect place to stay in Paris! Try staying as close to the center of the city as possible so you can try to walk as much as possible.
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There are so many stunning landmarks in Paris. It is such a huge and diverse city that is PACKED with history and culture. Visiting every single one of these famous Paris landmarks is a must to see and experience all the beauty of this magical city.
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SSW
I love the landmarks in Paris! No matter how many times I visit I enjoy seeing them in different seasons and times of day! Such lovely photos and inspiration to make it back to Paris!