All-Time Favourite Destinations in Paris, France

Some of my All-Time Favorite Destinations in Paris France include the Champs-Elysees, Basilique du Sacre-Coeur, and Place du Chatelet. But that’s not all. There is so much more to see in Paris! Keep reading to find out the highlights of this magnificent city! There’s no need to skip any of the above destinations! Just make sure to budget time for them!
Place du Chatelet
One of the most lively neighborhoods in Paris is the Chatelet. Its rich historical and cultural heritage is sure to enchant visitors. The place itself was built between 1855 and 1858. It was once home to a small medieval castle that was later used as a morgue, police headquarters, and jail. Many famous criminals passed through this location. However, under Napoleon Bonaparte, the castle was destroyed due to its insalubrious state.
If you have never visited the Chatelet, you will surely be impressed. This lively neighborhood is home to many bars and restaurants. But make sure you watch your back as there are a lot of pickpockets roaming the streets. Place du Chatelet is one of my All-Time Favourite Destinations in Paris France
Basilique du Sacre-Coeur
If you’re in Paris for a long weekend, take the time to visit the beautiful basilica on Montmartre. The design of the basilica is a mixture of Romanesque and Byzantine styles, and was commissioned by the French government in 1873. Its two-storey dome stands 271 feet high. The interior is a fascinating mix of art and history, and the architecture is striking.
The Sacre-Coeur basilica is unique in its white stone, which is made from calcite found in the Chateau-Landon quarry. The calcite serves as a bleach when it rains, so you can expect the basilica to look immaculately white. While you’re there, take a guided tour of the basilica and learn more about this beautiful monument. Since it’s one of the most popular attractions in Paris, it can be crowded.
Musee d’Orsay
The Orsay Museum is an architectural marvel on the banks of the Seine River. It was once a sleepy Parisian gem but has grown into one of the city’s most popular destinations for visitors. You can explore the museum’s permanent collection, purchase art-related books from the bookstore, and listen to audio guides that give you the background on certain pieces of artwork. The museum also allows you to take photographs inside the museum, which is a unique feature I didn’t find at other museums in Paris.
The Musee d’Orsay is an art museum located in a former train station on the Left Bank. It is known for its impressive collection of impressionist art. You can also see sculptures, photographs, and furniture displays. From the top balcony, you can get a breathtaking view of the Sacre-Coeur Basilica. There is also a permanent exhibition of French music and dance.
Champs-Elysees
The Champs-Elysees is one the most popular streets in Paris, home to several famous buildings and monuments. The Arc de Triomphe, built between 1806 and 1836, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. It honors the French soldiers who died during the Napoleonic Wars, and features the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Memorial Flame. The Champs-Elysees also features the Jardins des Champs-Elysees, a garden filled with beautiful flowers, trees and sculptures.
During the holiday season, the Champs-Elysees is particularly festive, with Christmas market stalls and decorations all adorning the street. However, summer weekends are the busiest time to visit the Champs-Elysees, and food prices are quite expensive. I recommend visiting the Champs-Elysees during the week or early morning, as they are less crowded. The Champs-Elysees are also less crowded on European holidays like Bastille Day, although you can expect to pay high prices for drinks and food.
Laduree
One of the best places to get some French-style sweets in Paris is Laduree. This shop, which opened in 1862, has many locations across the city. There is a flagship store on the Champs-Elysees and an original shop in the rue Royale. There are also several Laduree shops in airports and around the city. If you’re allergic to nuts, be sure to avoid their macarons, which are made with almond flour.
Whether you’re craving a French macaron or an elegant cup of tea, Laduree is definitely worth a visit. Famous for its macarons, Laduree was the first patisserie to introduce the double-decker macaron. These macarons are so famous that more than 15,000 are sold daily. If you’re visiting Paris, you should definitely take time to enjoy a macaron at Laduree.