Monuments of Paris

It’s overwhelming to think that Paris, founded over 2,000 years ago, is the result of at least 20 generations of people who have forged the historical, architectural, and cultural value that makes the capital of France what it is today: one of the most important cities in the world.

Monuments of Paris

The City of Light is undoubtedly an open-air museum, and its more than 2,000 monuments are there to confirm it. It’s impossible to see everything in the three days (at least) recommended to visit the capital of France, which is why we’ve prepared a list of the best monuments to visit in Paris in 3 days.

The Arc de Triomphe

 

The Arc de Triomphe is undoubtedly one of the most iconic monuments in Paris. Located in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, the largest public square and roundabout in the city, the Arc de Triomphe commemorates the conquests of the French army under the orders of Napoleon, who commissioned its construction in 1806.

At its base shines every day the light of the “eternal flame,” which is lit daily at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to honor those who fell in war.

From the top of this structure, you can enjoy beautiful views of the French capital, the Champs-Élysées, and the La Défense district.

• You can visit it every day from 10 AM to 10 PM and learn many details, including the meaning of its inscriptions, by joining the free tour of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe.

• Address: Place Charles de Gaulle

Basilica of the Sacred Heart

 

Whether you choose to climb the 197 steps or pay a ticket of 1.80 euros to take the funicular, visiting the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, or Sacré-Cœur, is a definite must in the City of Light.

The second most visited historic monument in Paris after Notre Dame Cathedral, it stands 130 meters high atop Montmartre hill, one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Paris. From there, you’ll get unparalleled panoramic views of Paris and can explore one of the most imposing sacred temples in the city.

Discover the hidden and charming corners of the neighborhood by joining a free tour of Montmartre.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 6 AM to 10:30 PM.

• Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre

Ópera Garnier

 

Also known as Palais Garnier, the Opéra Garnier was built between 1861 and 1875 at the request of Napoleon. This important neobaroque architectural landmark is one of the main monuments of Paris and, along with the Opéra de la Bastille, is part of the Paris National Opera.

Although performances today are usually held at the Opéra de la Bastille, Palais Garnier still hosts ballet dancers, artists, and some operas. Its golden age inspired one of the most famous works of French literature, “The Phantom of the Opera.”

You can see it on the night tour of Paris, which also includes a boat ride on the Seine— the perfect way to see many monuments of Paris in total comfort.

• Opéra Garnier Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.

• Address: Place de l’Opéra

Invalides Palace

 

Historically used as a hospital and retirement home for war veterans, this monument in Paris currently houses several museums such as the Musée de l’Armée de France, the Musée des Plans-Reliefs, and the Musée d’Histoire Contemporaine. Many of these have the best exhibits to learn about the history of the French army.

Here, you’ll also find the highest church in the city and a representation of French baroque architecture: the Dome des Invalides, which is also the final resting place of Napoleon and other notable figures like Joseph I Bonaparte.

The Invalides Palace is one of the monuments included in the Monumental Tour of Paris, a 2.5-hour journey that visits the most emblematic places of the Parisian Belle Époque. It also includes the traditional 1-hour cruise on the Seine.

• Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 6 PM (Tuesdays until 9 PM).

• Address: Rue de Grenelle, 129.

The Eiffel Tower

 

We are among those who like to save the best for last, and in this case, we are talking about the most famous monument in Paris: the Eiffel Tower, or “La Dame de Fer”.

We also share the sentiments of travelers who complain that accessing the Tower is expensive and that it can sometimes be overcrowded with tourists. But climbing and descending its more than 300 meters is perhaps as breathtaking as the thought that you will be one of the 250 million people who have experienced its stunning views.

This historic monument of France can be seen from anywhere in Paris, or even closer in the Champ de Mars. When the sun sets… the tower sparkles! Keep your phone handy to capture the most enchanting moment in Paris, and you might come across a wedding proposal: this light show lasts 5 minutes and repeats every hour.

The free Eiffel Tower tour does not include the ticket to ascend, but you will learn essential information from the guide and even get tips on securing the best tickets to visit it.

One more fact: The Eiffel Tower is an incredible monument to admire at sunset.

 

The Eiffel Tower from the Champ de Mars at sunset

 

• You can visit it every day from 9:30 AM to 10:45 PM.

• Location: Champ de Mars, 5 Av. Anatole France.

Other monuments to visit in Paris

Of course, there are many historical and cultural places in this city that we haven’t included, such as the Louvre Museum, one of the main museums in Paris, but it’s an impossible task to include everything in a single list!

Other sights to see in Paris include the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, the Church of La Madeleine, the historic Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais, and the Alexandre III Bridge.

We recommend visiting these places during the most magical moment of the City of Light, at night: and this night tour of Paris is the best option.