🥐 15 Things To Do In Paris
✈️ The Smart Traveler's Toolkit
Whether you're heading to the beaches of Thailand or exploring cobblestone streets in Prague, these are the 5 travel essentials that seasoned globetrotters and travel editors universally recommend — the gear that makes every trip smoother, lighter, and more enjoyable.
🧳 Away The Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase
The single most recommended carry-on in the travel world right now. Travel editors and frequent flyers rely on its durable polycarbonate shell, 360° spinner wheels, and built-in compression system to maximize packing space while gliding effortlessly through any airport terminal.
🎒 Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
The go-to daypack that professional travel bloggers and adventure guides swear by for city explorations and shore excursions. Its lightweight, breathable mesh back panel keeps you cool in tropical heat, while the 20L capacity fits everything you need — camera, water bottle, sunscreen, and souvenirs — without weighing you down.
📦 Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set
The packing organization system that experts credit with fitting 30% more into any suitcase. These translucent, color-coded cubes separate tops, bottoms, and accessories so you spend zero time digging through your bag — universally recommended by professional packers and minimalist travel coaches worldwide.
🎧 Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The undisputed king of travel headphones that flight attendants and business travelers universally recommend. The industry-leading noise cancellation erases engine roar, crying babies, and airport chaos — giving you 30 hours of blissful silence for long-haul flights, road trips, and train journeys.
🔋 Anker PowerCore 26800 Portable Charger
The portable power bank that travel photographers and digital nomads rely on to keep devices charged through full-day excursions without hunting for outlets. With enough capacity to charge a phone 6+ times over, it's the non-negotiable lifeline for capturing every sunset, navigating unfamiliar cities, and staying connected abroad.
Alright, buckle up buttercup. Paris. It’s not just for lovers and those dramatically staring out of café windows, though you totally can do that too. If you’re tired of the same old ‘see the Eiffel Tower and call it a day’ advice, you’re in the right place. We’re diving deep into the good stuff, the truly unforgettable moments, without any of the tourist trap nonsense. Get ready to fall in love, or at least get some killer Instagram content.
1. Explore Le Marais like a local
Ditch the Champs-Élysées crowds and get real. This historic district is packed with trendy boutiques, cool art galleries, and the kind of cafés where you actually want to linger. You’ll find a mix of old-world charm and cutting-edge style here.
Pro tip: Grab a falafel from L’As du Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers. It’s legendary, trust me. You get history, fashion, and amazing food all in one chic package.
2. Picnic by the Seine
Skip the fancy restaurant reservations for one night. Grab a baguette, some amazing cheese, a bottle of wine (because, France), and find a spot along the river. Golden hour is prime time for this, obviously.
Pro tip: Head to a local Monoprix for all your picnic essentials. They have surprisingly good wine and way better snacks than you’d expect. It’s effortlessly romantic and way cheaper than a Michelin star.
3. Get lost in the Louvre (on purpose)
Yes, everyone goes, but there’s a trick to it. Don’t just sprint to the Mona Lisa, that’s amateur hour. Wander the less crowded wings, discover hidden gems, and actually see some art. You might even find a secret passage (probably not, but a girl can dream).
Pro tip: Go on a Wednesday or Friday evening when it’s open late and generally less insane. You actually see art instead of just fighting for a selfie spot.
4. Indulge in a proper Parisian patisserie crawl
Your diet starts after Paris, darling. Macarons, pain au chocolat, éclairs, tarte tatin – try them all, from multiple spots. This is not the time for moderation.
Pro tip: Don’t miss Pierre Hermé for macarons and Du Pain et des Idées for viennoiseries. It’s a delicious journey through French culinary artistry, and your taste buds will thank you.
5. Wander through Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Climb that hill, the views are worth it, I promise. Montmartre offers cobblestone streets, artists trying to sketch you, and a totally bohemian vibe. The Basilica itself is stunning, inside and out.
Pro tip: Explore the tiny side streets like Rue de l’Abreuvoir for prime photo ops, but maybe skip the portrait artists if you’re on a budget. It feels like stepping back in time, with epic panoramic views of the city.
6. Catch a show at the Moulin Rouge (or a smaller cabaret)
Embrace the glitz and glamour, even if it’s just for one night. Think iconic can-can, dazzling costumes, and enough champagne to make you forget your troubles. It’s a spectacle.
Pro tip: If Moulin Rouge is too pricey, check out Lido de Paris or a smaller, more intimate cabaret for a similar vibe. It’s a quintessential Parisian experience, full of spectacle and history.
7. Stroll through Jardin du Luxembourg
Find your inner Parisian chill in these absolutely gorgeous gardens. With fountains, statues, and plenty of green space, it’s perfect for people-watching or just letting your mind wander.
Pro tip: Rent one of the iconic green chairs and just soak up the sun. Pure bliss, and a great way to recharge. It’s a serene escape from the city bustle, right in the heart of it all.
8. Visit a local market, like Marché des Enfants Rouges
Get a taste of authentic Parisian life (and some amazing food) at Paris’s oldest covered market. It’s a sensory explosion of food stalls, fresh produce, and international cuisine.
Pro tip: Grab lunch from one of the many food vendors; the Moroccan tagine or Japanese bento are always a hit. It’s a vibrant, sensory experience that shows you Paris beyond the postcards.
9. Take a cooking class for French classics
Bring a piece of Paris home with you, literally. Learn to make croissants, macarons, or classic French dishes from scratch. You’ll impress everyone at your next dinner party.
Pro tip: Look for classes at Le Cordon Bleu for serious skills, or smaller workshops for a more intimate experience. You gain a new skill and an appreciation for French gastronomy.
10. Browse the bouquinistes along the Seine
Hunt for literary treasures with the best backdrop imaginable. These iconic green stalls are packed with old books, vintage prints, and quirky souvenirs. It’s a truly Parisian pastime.
Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to haggle a little, especially if you’re buying a few items. You might find a vintage Parisian print to frame. It’s a unique Parisian tradition and a great spot for quirky souvenirs.
11. Explore the Catacombs (if you dare)
Get a little spooky and delve into Paris’s underground history. This ossuary stores the remains of millions of Parisians, making for a fascinatingly eerie experience that’s definitely not for the faint of heart.
Pro tip: Book tickets online in advance. The queues are notoriously long, and you don’t want to waste precious Paris time standing around. It’s a chillingly unique perspective on the city’s past, far from the usual tourist circuit.
12. Visit Musée d’Orsay for Impressionist masterpieces
Trade ancient sculptures for vibrant brushstrokes in this stunning museum, housed in a former train station. It boasts an incredible collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including all your faves.
Pro tip: Head straight to the upper floor for the best views of the Seine through the giant clock window, and all the Monet and Van Gogh you can handle. It’s visually stunning, both inside and out, offering a different kind of art fix.
13. Enjoy an aperitif on a rooftop bar
Sip cocktails with a view, because you absolutely deserve it after all that exploring. Paris has some fantastic rooftop spots offering panoramic cityscapes that will make your jaw drop.
Pro tip: Check out Terrass” Hotel in Montmartre or Le Perchoir Marais for incredible sunset vibes and even better drinks. It’s the perfect way to unwind and feel incredibly chic after a day of adventuring.
14. Discover the charm of Canal Saint-Martin
Escape the central tourist hub for a cooler, more local vibe. This trendy neighborhood is full of independent shops, cool cafes, and picturesque locks. It’s where the actual Parisians hang out.
Pro tip: Rent a bike and cycle along the canal, or simply grab a coffee at one of the waterside cafes and watch the world go by. It’s a glimpse into bohemian Paris, perfect for a relaxed afternoon.
15. Take a day trip to Versailles
Channel your inner Marie Antoinette, without losing your head, obviously. The opulent palace, incredible gardens, and the famous Hall of Mirrors are truly grand and a must-see for anyone with a penchant for history (or extreme luxury).
Pro tip: Go early, rent a golf cart to explore the massive gardens (your feet will thank you), and pack a picnic to avoid expensive palace food. It’s a breathtaking dive into French royal history and extravagance.
🌍 The Adventure & Comfort Kit
From sun-soaked beaches to mountain treks and everything in between — these are the 5 comfort and photography essentials that experienced travelers never leave home without. Level up your adventure game with gear the pros actually use.
📸 GoPro HERO12 Black Action Camera
The action camera that professional travel photographers and adventure vloggers universally rely on to capture jaw-dropping footage in any environment. Its waterproof design, HyperSmooth stabilization, and stunning 5.3K video mean you'll capture crystal-clear memories whether you're snorkeling in Phuket or zip-lining through Costa Rica.
😴 Trtl Travel Pillow
The scientifically engineered neck pillow that frequent flyers and travel editors swear is the only one that actually works. Unlike bulky U-shaped pillows, this sleek scarf-style design holds your neck in an ergonomically correct position — the secret weapon for arriving at your destination rested instead of wrecked after an overnight flight.
☀️ Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
The invisible, weightless sunscreen that beauty editors and dermatologists universally recommend for travelers who refuse to look greasy in vacation photos. This cult-favorite applies like a silky primer under makeup, never leaves white cast on any skin tone, and provides serious broad-spectrum protection for all-day adventures under any sun.
💧 Hydro Flask 32oz Wide Mouth Bottle
The insulated water bottle that outdoor adventurers and eco-conscious travelers refuse to travel without. It keeps water ice-cold for 24 hours even in scorching tropical heat, eliminates the need for single-use plastic bottles, and fits perfectly in any daypack side pocket — a hydration essential from beach days to mountain hikes.
🔌 EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter
The all-in-one power adapter that covers 150+ countries and eliminates the nightmare of hunting for the right plug in every new destination. International travelers and digital nomads rely on its built-in USB-C and USB-A ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously — phone, camera, and laptop from a single compact adapter.
Conclusion
So there you have it, your ultimate hit list for truly experiencing Paris, not just seeing it. Forget the checkboxes and embrace the wanderlust. Whether you’re chasing art, pastries, or just a really good photo op, Paris delivers. Now go forth and make some memories (and maybe send me a macaron).
