Fun Things to Do in Paris: A Slower, More Enjoyable Way to Explore

Paris is a destination where there is a desire to see everything -the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre Dame, the Champs-Élysées in one trip.

It wasn’t until later in my twenties when I had a boyfriend living in Paris that I slowed things down when visiting. Lingering over coffee in Montmartre, wandering with no plan along the Seine, and choosing just a few key experiences each visit.

Since then (& without the boyfriend) I’ve returned to Paris many times – no more rushing from one guidebook highlight to the next, ticking off the “must-sees”.

During a recent trip with 3 of my sisters, we simply got off the Eurostar, walked up to Sacre Coeur, found a cafe, ordered 2 bottles of rose wine. We sat, watching the world go by for a couple of hours—bliss!

If you’re feeling overwhelmed planning your trip, this Paris itinerary is full of fun things to do, at a slower, more enjoyable pace.

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1. Experience the Eiffel Tower (Without Rushing It)

The Eiffel Tower is on every list of fun things to do in Paris—and yes, it’s absolutely worth seeing. But after multiple visits, we’ve learned that how you experience it makes all the difference.

Eiffel Tower Practical Info:

On our first trip, we did what most people do. We rushed there after lunch, queued for ages as tour buses arrived, squeezed into the lift, and then jostled through the crowds at the top trying to take photos.

We left feeling a bit underwhelmed… and very hot (mid-afternoon in summer was not our best idea!).

Now, we approach it very differently.

🔍 Book Your Tower Tickets Ahead To Secure A Time Slot

We like to start the day slowly, arriving via Trocadéro for that first iconic view, then walking through the Champs de Mars gardens towards the tower. It feels far less hectic—and far more “Paris.”

If you want to go up, it’s definitely worth doing once, but book a summit ticket well in advance so you’re not wasting time in queues. And if you’re celebrating something special, lunch at Madame Brasserie is a great way to turn the visit into more of an experience rather than just a viewpoint.

That said, our favourite way to enjoy the Eiffel Tower after dark isn’t from the top at all.

🔍 Buy Tickets Early for Dinner Cruise to Avoid Disappointment

It’s seeing it from the Seine at night, lit up and sparkling. We’ve done a dinner cruise a few times now, and it’s always one of those moments where you just sit back, relax, and think—this is why people fall in love with Paris

Our boat cruises at night have been wonderful, but I want to share that the food isn’t fantastic, so don’t expect a Madame Brasserie style dinner. For us, it didn’t detract from a lovely romantic cruise vibe.

2. Stroll the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe (and Take Your Time)

One of my favourite early memories of Paris is arriving on the Champs-Élysées on the back of a motorbike, squeezing into a parking space that no car could possibly fit into, and heading straight for a cappuccino.

An hour later, that had turned into a kir royal (a champagne cocktail I love), and we were still sitting there—watching the world go by. Honestly, people-watching here is on another level. Everyone looks effortlessly chic… even the dogs.

The Champs-Élysées is one of best known streets in the world—but if we’re honest, it can feel a little underwhelming if you rush it.

On one visit, we walked it quickly, popped into a high-end fashion store which I won’t name but it starts with the letter ‘C”. I tried to take a generic photo to share later, only for security to appear out of nowhere telling me to put my camera away. Yikes.

But like many things in Paris, this tree lined artery of the city is more enjoyable when you slow it down and look beyond the obvious. For example, we had an impulse to go to see a French film at a movie cinema just off here.

Completely unplanned, but with sub titles and my basic French, it was such a great experience from the Champs Elysees.

Now, we treat this area of Paris as more of a relaxed wander than a must-see attraction. We’ll dip into a few of the designer stores (usually just for a quick “Bonjour, we’re just looking!”), stop for a coffee along the way.

We take our time people-watching—it’s actually one of the best places in the city for that.

Our preferred meandering route is towards the Arc de Triomphe: take your time approaching it. When you get there, use the underground pedestrian route to reach it safely, as the traffic circle around it is constant and hectic.

The stone arch is far more impressive up close than you expect. I loved the detail on the building stone and paying respects at the eternal flame – the tomb of the unknown soldier.

Arc de Triomphe Practical Info:

If you’re up for it, climbing to the top gives you a completely different perspective over Paris, especially looking back down the length of the Champs-Élysées.

The Arc was commissioned by Napoleon although he didn’t live to see it completed.  It’s also the site of the eternal flame, which has burned here for over 100 years – a nightly ritual keeps the fires burning.

Combine these with popping into a local cafe and you have another one of those non guide book experiences that’s less about the destination and more about how you choose to enjoy it.

3. Visit The Louvre Museum

Even if museums are not your passion, go visit The Louvre if this is your first time in Paris. It’s a stunning building and the contents are incredible to see in person from sculptures to the timeless Mona Lisa portrait.

You can buy official tickets in advance online from the Louvre Museum Site which you will be thankful for if you arrive and face a long line at the ticket office.

If you prefer to absorb without a tour guide, we suggest getting tickets with the self-guided audio to bring exhibits to life with stories and facts.

We typically spend a few hours here, pace ourselves with a visit to the cafe as we work out way around the halls.

While the Mona Lisa is special, my personal feeling is that it was so hyped up that when I saw it in person, it was a bit underwhelming. It’s very small and covered in glass, and I saw many more interesting exhibits. (Sorry art lovers).

Helpful Louvre Info:

You never know who is in here with you. On our last visit, we saw a bit of a crowd gathering in a hallway and as we passed by a smiling Pharrell Williams (singer) was also enjoying the incredible collection.

If you would enjoy a steak dinner in an 1898 art nouveau style restaurant, read review of Beefbar Paris Georges V. We found it to be a top notch dinner venue and the famous chocolate soufflé is not be missed.

4. Enjoy a Picnic Lunch in a Parisian Park

One of our favourite ways to slow down in Paris is to always plan time for a simple picnic (weather permitting).

There’s nothing quite like a Parisian boulangerie. When I enter it feels like an Aladdin’s Cave of delicious breads, and I’ll happily visit different ones each day of my trip. Picking up a fresh baguette, a wedge of brie, and maybe a bottle of Bordeaux instantly makes me feel just a little bit French.

On one visit in early May, we grabbed a few goodies from a local boulangerie and headed to the Jardin de Luxembourg. Known for its orchards of apple and pear trees, beautiful flower beds, and over 100 statues, it’s the perfect place to slow down.

What was meant to be a quick lunch turned into a couple of hours in the late spring sunshine. Time slipped by as we watched people meeting up, children playing, and the rhythm of everyday Paris life unfolding around us. These slower moments are often the ones we remember most.

If you feel like staying longer, there’s often something happening—from a casual game of boules to outdoor concerts and people gathered around chess boards.

Another great option is the Champs de Mars, especially if you want those iconic Eiffel Tower views while you eat. It’s a smaller, busier space, so we’d suggest going earlier in the day or later in the evening.

Whichever spot you choose, don’t rush it. This isn’t just a quick lunch stop—it’s a chance to pause, and experience a side of Paris that most guidebooks miss.

5. Sip Coffee in Montmartre & Visit Sacre Coeur Church

Montmartre is our go to destination on a Sunday morning.

There’s something special about arriving early, finding a small café tucked along the cobbled streets, and sitting outside watching the area slowly come to life.

Artists begin setting up their easels, locals walk their dogs, and the whole area has a relaxed, almost village-like feel despite being in a capital city.

It is a bit of a climb – around 222 steps up to Sacré-Cœur (or so I’m told, as I’ve never quite had the patience to count them!). If that feels like too much, the funicular near Anvers metro is an easy option and uses a standard metro ticket.

We always like to walk, but another option is using Uber or a local taxi. Be patient if you choose this option as the narrow streets can get congested.

On top of the hill is the stunning white church of Sacre Coeur visible from many parts of the city centre.  Sit on the steps for a bit, and take in the views of Paris that stretch out in front of you.

If this is your first time in Paris, it’s definitely worth visiting. Just try to come early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the busiest crowds.

And if you’re not in a rush (which, by now, you hopefully aren’t), this is one of the nicest places in the city to linger – whether over another coffee… or a glass of sparkling wine as the day unfolds.

6. Slow Down Along the Seine: Latin Quarter & Notre Dame

One of the simplest, and most enjoyable ways to experience Paris is spending time along the River Seine. We especially enjoy the artsy feel of the Latin Quarter and tiny Île de la Cité, home to Notre Dame.

This is an area we often return to, not because there’s one specific thing to “do,” but because it’s perfect for wandering without a plan.

We usually start by crossing over either ‘Petit Pont’ or ‘Pont au Double’ bridges that conveniently connects Notre Dame to Latin Quarter.

There’s a real sense of history here, from its Roman roots to its long-standing reputation as a hub for writers, thinkers, and students.

One of our favourite things to do is browse the small bookshops tucked along the main street. Some feel like they haven’t changed in decades and the authenticity here is refreshing. It’s easy to lose track of time here, especially if you stop for a coffee or a crepe and just watch the world go by.

On one visit years ago, we stopped at a tiny crêperie on the Left Bank and ordered what we thought would be a quick snack.

They were so good that when we got home, we ended up buying a crêpe pan and made our own every weekend for brunch for months afterwards. It’s funny how small moments like that end up sticking with you long after the trip.

From there, we’ll make our way to Île de la Cité, where Notre Dame stands at the heart of the city.

Seeing it again after the 2019 fire is something we’re really looking forward to. Even from the outside, it’s one of those places that makes you stop for a moment—the scale, the detail, and the sense of history are incredible.

Notre Dame Practical Information:

Before going inside, I like to stand and absorb the architectural details of this medieval gem on Île de la Cité. Despite fires, attacks, lack of money, and other challenges, this place has endured. It really feels like the heart of Paris in so many ways.

7. Choose 1 Memorable Night Out In Paris

Evenings in Paris can be just as memorable as your days—but we’ve found it’s best not to try and do too much.

I so remember coming here in my 20s and dancing the night away at a Parisian nightclub until 3am and then going for food. But nowadays instead of rushing between bars or over-planning, we prefer to choose one experience and really enjoy it.

For something iconic, a night at the Moulin Rouge is hard to beat. It’s been entertaining audiences for over a century, and while it’s definitely a tourist experience, it’s also one of those “only in Paris” moments.

The vibrant performances, the feathered costumes, and the low lit atmosphere make it a fun and memorable night out – especially if it’s your first visit.

That said, not every evening needs to be a big production.

Some of our favourite nights in Paris have been much simpler. Wandering through districts like Le Marais, finding a small bar or bistro, and settling in for the evening.

The streets around here feel a little more local, and it’s easy to spend hours just enjoying good food, a glass of wine, and the atmosphere.

Whether you go for something iconic like the Moulin Rouge or something more low-key in Le Marais, the key is the same—slow it down, settle in, and enjoy the experience rather than trying to fit too much into one evening

 

Where to Stay in Paris (Don’t Overpay or Feel Cramped)

Hotels in central Paris can be expensive, and rooms are often smaller than you might expect. But in our experience, it’s usually worth prioritising location over space, especially if it means you can walk more and rely less on transport.

Here are a few options we’ve either stayed in or would happily book:

 

More Fun Things to Do in Paris

If you’re lucky enough to have a few extra days to fill, there are plenty more unique things to do in Paris.

One of the most popular day trips is to the Palace of Versailles , 16km south. It’s easy to jump on the RER C train from Paris, and offers a completely different experience from the city. Organised Tours from Paris by bus are also popular.

🔍 Find Best Versailles Guided Tours That Include Transport

For something a little more local, the Marché aux Puces Flea Market is a fascinating place to explore, especially if you enjoy browsing antiques and vintage finds.

It’s the largest of it’s kind in the world so if you collect it, it’s likely to be here and we found the stall holders to be quite friendly.

And if you prefer to stay in the city, consider checking out a live event—from tennis tournaments to concerts at venues like L’Olympia or the Accor Arena.

Indulge your sweet tooth with some mouthwatering French pâtisseries, or hunt for Macarons. I can’t leave Paris without a little box of coconut macrone to bring home, although most are eaten before I make it back. Delicious!

One final suggestion is a trip to the Champagne Region of France, either to Reims or Épernay. We decided to stay for 2 nights but an alternative is to enjoy a day tour with several tastings. It’s fun and the countryside is stunning, as are the bubbles.

🔍 Visit Champagne Vineyards & Tastings in Epernay

FAQs

These are things Paris travel tips from questions we often receive:

 Don’t Try To Do All Of Paris In One Visit

After many trips to Paris, the biggest thing we’ve learned is this: you don’t need to see everything to enjoy it.

In fact, less is more and a slower relaxed itinerary with long lunches, the unexpected finds, and the moments you didn’t plan that make places like Paris so memorable.

So rather than rushing from one landmark to the next, pick a few things from our ideas that really interest you and let Paris reveal itself your way.