As 10 principais atrações imperdíveis de Paris para quem visita a cidade pela primeira vez

1. Eiffel Tower

• Why it’s famous: An undisputed global icon, the Eiffel Tower is the quintessential symbol of Paris and France. Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Universal Exposition, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. At night, its hourly sparkle show is simply magical.
• Best time to visit: Early morning (right at opening) or late evening (after 8 PM) to avoid the longest queues. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) are generally less crowded than weekends. Visiting from October to March (excluding holidays) is ideal for fewer crowds. Consider visiting both during the day and at night for different perspectives.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Eiffel Tower Website
• Metro Tip: Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel (RER C), Bir Hakeim (Line 6), Trocadéro (Lines 6, 9).
  • Map Pin: Place de la Tour Eiffel, 75007 Paris, France.

2. The Louvre Museum

• Why it’s famous: The world’s largest art museum and a historic monument, housing an unparalleled collection of masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. Its iconic glass pyramid entrance is a landmark in itself.
• Best time to visit: Mondays and Thursdays are generally less crowded. Extended evening hours (Wednesday and Friday until 9 PM) can offer a quieter experience. Visiting from January to April is the low season for crowds. Book timed-entry tickets online in advance to skip the main queue.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Louvre Museum Website
• Metro Tip: Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre (Lines 1, 7).
  • Map Pin: Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.

3. Notre-Dame Cathedral

• Why it’s famous: A masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, Notre-Dame has stood as an iconic symbol of Paris for over 850 years. Though severely damaged by fire in 2019, its resilience and ongoing restoration continue to inspire. It’s a testament to Parisian history and faith.
• Best time to visit: While the interior reopened to the public on December 7th, 2024, visits will likely require free online reservations 24-48 hours in advance due to high demand. The surrounding square and gardens are still undergoing renovation. View the exterior and follow the restoration progress.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Notre-Dame de Paris Website
• Metro Tip: Cité (Line 4), Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (RER B, RER C).
  • Map Pin: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame – Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004 Paris, France.

4. Musée d’Orsay

• Why it’s famous: Housed in a magnificent former Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d’Orsay is renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from artists like Monet, Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, and Van Gogh. Its unique setting and impressive art make it a favorite.
• Best time to visit: Weekdays (Tuesday-Friday), particularly early morning (right at opening) or late afternoon (after 4 PM). Thursday evenings (open until 9:45 PM) can also offer a less crowded experience. Low season (November to March) is generally quieter. Book tickets online in advance.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Musée d’Orsay Website
• Metro Tip: Solférino (Line 12), Musée d’Orsay (RER C).
  • Map Pin: 1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 75007 Paris, France.

5. Arc de Triomphe & Champs-Élysées

• Why it’s famous: Commissioned by Napoleon, the Arc de Triomphe honors those who fought for France. Standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s twelve avenues radiating from its central point. Below lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The Champs-Élysées itself is one of the world’s most famous avenues, known for luxury shops, cinemas, and its role in major French celebrations.
• Best time to visit: To climb the Arc, go early morning (10 AM opening) or late evening (after 8 PM). Friday evenings (6 PM – 9:45 PM) can also be good. The view at sunset, with the city lights coming on, is spectacular.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Arc de Triomphe Website
• Metro Tip: Charles de Gaulle – Étoile (Lines 1, 2, 6, RER A).
  • Map Pin: Place Charles de Gaulle, 75008 Paris, France.

6. Sacré-Cœur Basilica & Montmartre

• Why it’s famous: Perched atop Montmartre hill, the dazzling white Sacré-Cœur Basilica offers magnificent views over Paris. Montmartre itself is a charming, bohemian neighborhood renowned for its cobblestone streets, artistic history (Picasso, Van Gogh), and the Place du Tertre where artists paint en plein air.
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon/early evening for fewer crowds and beautiful light. Avoid Sundays. Climbing to the dome offers even more expansive views (separate ticket required).
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Sacré-Cœur Basilica Website (Entry to the basilica itself is free, but dome access is separate).
• Metro Tip: Abbesses (Line 12), Anvers (Line 2) – take the funicular up the hill.
  • Map Pin: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 Paris, France.

7. Palace of Versailles (Day Trip)

• Why it’s famous: A magnificent symbol of absolute monarchy, this opulent royal residence showcases lavish apartments, the iconic Hall of Mirrors, and vast, meticulously manicured gardens with fountains and groves. It was home to Louis XIV, the “Sun King,” and later Marie Antoinette.
• Best time to visit: Tuesdays and weekends are generally the busiest as the palace is closed on Mondays. Weekdays (Wednesday-Friday) are relatively less crowded. Arrive at opening (9 AM) or in the late afternoon. Consider visiting the gardens first in the morning if the palace queue is long.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Palace of Versailles Website
• Getting There: Take the RER C train from central Paris directly to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station (~40 minutes).
  • Map Pin: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France.

8. Seine River Cruise

• Why it’s famous: A quintessential Parisian experience, offering a unique perspective of the city’s iconic landmarks. Glide past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Pont Neuf, all beautifully illuminated.
• Best time to visit: Sunset or after dark for a truly magical experience as the city lights up and the Eiffel Tower sparkles hourly. Daytime cruises offer clear views and photo opportunities.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Operators like Bateaux Mouches and Bateaux Parisiens offer various cruises. Book online for convenience.
  • Bateaux Mouches
  • Bateaux Parisiens
• Metro Tip: Pont de l’Alma (RER C) for Bateaux Mouches. Bir Hakeim (Line 6) for Bateaux Parisiens (near Eiffel Tower).
  • Map Pin: Pont de l’Alma, 75008 Paris, France (Bateaux Mouches).

9. Sainte-Chapelle

• Why it’s famous: A Gothic masterpiece nestled within the Palais de la Cité on Île de la Cité, renowned for its breathtaking 15 magnificent stained-glass windows, depicting over 1,113 scenes from the Bible. When the sun shines through, the chapel is bathed in an ethereal, jewel-toned light.
• Best time to visit: Sunny days are ideal for the stained glass. Visit early morning (right at opening) or late afternoon. It’s less crowded than the Louvre or Orsay but can still have queues.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Official Sainte-Chapelle Website
• Metro Tip: Cité (Line 4).
  • Map Pin: 8 Bd du Palais, 75001 Paris, France.

10. Latin Quarter & Luxembourg Gardens

• Why it’s famous: The Quartier Latin is Paris’s historic intellectual and student hub, characterized by narrow, winding streets, charming bookstores (like Shakespeare and Company), lively cafes, and ancient universities. It’s a vibrant area with a rich history. The Jardins de Luxemburgo (Jardin du Luxembourg) are a picturesque oasis within the Latin Quarter, with beautiful French gardens, statues, tranquil ponds, and a famous Medici Fountain.
• Best time to visit: Anytime! Explore the Latin Quarter’s streets in the late afternoon and evening for a lively atmosphere. Visit Luxembourg Gardens during daylight hours, especially on a sunny day, to see Parisians relaxing.
• Ticket/Tour Link: Free to explore the neighborhood and gardens.
• Metro Tip: Luxembourg (RER B) for the gardens. Cluny – La Sorbonne (Lines 10, RER B) for the Latin Quarter.
  • Map Pin (Luxembourg Gardens): Jardin du Luxembourg, 75006 Paris, France.

Enjoy your unforgettable first trip to Paris!