Why visit Paris? What is so special about Paris anyway? Is Paris safe? If you’re asking yourself these questions, then you have come to the right place.
Millions of people every year travel from around the world to the City of Lights to watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle… but why? What makes Paris that much better than that of London, Dublin, Prague, or Barcelona?
Well, I’m here to show you all of the magical things that Paris has to offer that you won’t find in any of those other cities!
The list below contains 25 reasons to visit Paris, many of which you likely haven’t considered. Even if you aren’t sure about the luxurious cuisine or the sophisticated shopping, keep in mind that Paris has been named one of the most beautiful cities in the world for a reason…
So, why visit Paris you ask? Let me show you!
Happy Travels!
Is Paris Worth Visiting?
Paris is a world of extremes. Extreme personalities, extreme foods, and extreme landmarks. Depending on who you ask, you’re going to receive very contradictory opinions from people around the world.
The only way to form an opinion of Paris for yourself is, well, to visit of course! We absolutely loved Paris when we visited and highly recommend that you do too. But, that doesn’t mean we were blind to the city’s less than desirable features either…
Yes, you’ll still find tourist traps, overpriced souvenirs, and some not-so-friendly locals the same way you would in any city. But, that’s no reason to consider not visiting Paris altogether!
In short, Paris is absolutely worth visiting and it would be a big loss for you to never attempt to visit owing to other people’s opinions.
What is so Special about Paris?
Paris is special for its limitless sophistication and grandeur among other cities in Europe. Nowhere else can you find elegant wine carts roaming the streets like the one shown above, or seemingly endless outdoor farmer’s markets, and enough Michelin-star food scenes for all the people of the world to enjoy.
Paris is also easily recognized worldwide for its iconic landmarks that are famous across the globe. The Eiffel Tower, Le Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe, the Sacré-Cœur, the Notre Dame Cathedral… just to name a few.
Paris is entirely unique to the rest of Europe owing to its romantic ambiance, impressive landmarks, stunning architecture, and gorgeous scenery everywhere you turn. Then, there’s also the food, the people (yes, most of the locals in Paris are very kind!), and the elegant music that fills the streets!
Why is Paris the Best Place to Visit?
There are endless reasons for why Paris is the best place to visit! But, these reasons will be different for each person who visits.
For some, like myself, Paris was amazing for its incredible food and wine, its outstanding scenery and landmarks everywhere I went, and the lovely Seine River that perfectly cuts through it. Many days, it truly felt like I was walking the streets of a storybook.
Others may prefer to swoon over the museums and the city’s captivating history. And for some, it’s a combination of everything that makes Paris the best place to visit.
Why is Paris Famous?
Paris is famous for its Michelin-star restaurants and sophisticated cuisine, its charming cobblestone streets, its romantic ambiance, and its iconic landmarks.
With so much to do, see, and try in this fantastic city, one could spend months and even years here without exploring the deepest depths of the City of Lights.
If you’re still wondering “why visit Paris?” and can’t seem to come up with a reason, continue reading this post to learn about 25 reasons why you should visit Paris!
Why Visit Paris?
Below, I’ve listed 25 great reasons why you should visit Paris.
You’re bound to agree with at least one of them, so be prepared to start booking your trip to Paris practically immediately after reading this post!
1. Why Visit Paris? Paris has Something for Everyone!
And I’m not saying this lightly…
Paris is one of the largest cities in Europe with over 20 different neighborhoods (or arrondissements) to explore, each with its own unique personality.
For example, you can explore the 1st arrondissement where you’ll find some of the top-rated museums in the world such as Le Louvre or you can make your way over to the 7th arrondissement where you can stroll the gardens surrounding the Eiffel Tower!
From iconic landmarks, world-class museums, the ancient history of the Catacombs, Michelin-star cuisine, one of the leading fashion industries in the world, and romantic ambiance, there is no doubt that Paris is an extremely diverse city with a lot going on.
Not interested in any of the activities I just mentioned? No problem! In Paris, it’s also completely acceptable to grab a blanket and read a book in the park, enjoy a cappuccino on the riverbank, or spend hours strolling through the Luxembourg Gardens.
No matter what feasts your fancy, Paris is an exciting destination for travelers of all kinds!
2. To Appreciate the Culture
Like I have said before, even if you don’t enjoy taking part in museums, attractions, and activities like taking a Seine River cruise, there is still a lot to marvel over in Paris.
Parisian culture is entirely unique from the rest of France, you see. You won’t find striped shirts and berets everywhere you look, but instead charming cobblestone streets, endless cigar and wine shops, and outdoor cafes as far as the eye can see.
French culture focuses on the small things: good wine, good food, and good people. As you have probably heard the stereotype, Parisians occasionally don’t have much patience for rude tourists… and why should they?
They’re simply looking to fill their days with friendly conversations and small delights. They’re very much like you and me, so even if you aren’t looking to sightsee for days on end, simply start a conversation with a local.
If you’re able to get out even just a few phrases in French, they will usually be delighted to chat with you! Just remember that not all Parisians know English or are bilingual, so you should do your best with learning some French if you can.
3. To Eat Fresh Baked Croissants and Baguettes…
Even if you don’t claim to be a “foodie” traveler or haven’t heard much about France’s Michelin-star cuisine, there is no denying that the food in France is some of the best in the entire world.
The smell of freshly baked croissants and baguettes fills the streets of Paris on a daily basis! Traditionally served at breakfast with butter or local jams, these flaky treats are a true source of happiness for Parisians and tourists alike.
Beyond the art of puff pastry, however, is an entire world known as the French art of cooking! Soft, chewy baguettes with a browned, crisp exterior are paired with local meats and cheeses for a heavenly lunch or evening snack.
Bakeries and patisserie shops are overflowing with delicate creations while streetside cafes are serving up hot and bubbly croque monsieurs. The French are known for their ingenious use of butter, so I suggest leaving your diet at home…
If you’re still asking yourself, “why visit Paris?”, simply take my advice and go and allow the food to win over your heart!
4. To Find Yourself Swooning Over the Fashion
I for one was never really interested in fashion… at least until I saw how well-dressed all of the Parisian locals were! It isn’t unnatural to see most people wearing business casual outfits (i.e. a blouse, pencil skirt, and flats for the ladies and khakis and a collared shirt for the men.)
The Champs-Élysées is one of the most glamorous and sophisticated shopping districts in the entire world with many of the latest trends being featured in the annual Paris Fashion Week (a very prestigious event).
Although many of the shops on the Champs-Élysées may be a bit out of your price range (a typical blouse can start as high as 200 euros…), that doesn’t mean you won’t find some exceptional pieces of clothing all around the city for great deals.
Simply peruse the local shops on many of the small, cobblestone side streets and you’ll be rocking some high-end Paris fashion in no time!
5. Why Visit Paris? To Enjoy the Romantic Ambiance!
Also known as “the City of Love“, Paris is one of the most romantic cities in the world. If you’re asking yourself, “why visit Paris?”, and can’t seem to think that you’ll enjoy much of the sights, attractions, or culture, come for the romance – I promise, it’ll take your breath away!
From the iconic architecture to the city’s beautiful array of evening lights, everywhere you look there is something to “ooh” and “ahh” at.
It’s the perfect destination to visit solo and find yourself learning more about your personal interests and self than ever before. It’s also wonderful for couples who want to enjoy an elegant dinner under the dazzling lights of the Eiffel Tower or a quiet evening walk along the Seine.
No matter your reasons for visiting Paris, the romance will stand out to you once you spend just a short amount of time walking Paris at night!
6. To Take Advantage of Its Prime Location
Say you ask yourself “why visit Paris?” countless times and you really can’t seem to find anything you think you’ll enjoy, then at least come and use it as the perfect starting point to another trip!
Paris is one of the most popular starting locations for European itineraries across Europe. You can use it as just an arrival point for exploring the rest of France, or even the rest of Europe!
From Paris, you’ll find high-speed trains that will take you all over France as well as the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Spain, Germany, and more! There is truly no end to where you can go from Paris, so even if you aren’t sure about visiting, use its prime location as a reason for visiting Paris.
After all, you may just find along your short travels through the French capital that you wish to return and see more of this amazing city!
7. To Fall in Love with the Language
I studied French for seven years and to this day still find it to be charming, strong, and romantic all at the same time!
Everywhere you go in Paris, you will hear at least one person around you speaking French at all times. The French language flows swiftly (due to this, most people speak French very fast) and has a strong focus on soft consonants and vowels which makes for easy transitions.
I personally love listening to French everywhere I go… so much so that I decided to pick it back up again in my spare time. Whether or not you plan to do the same, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the most commonly used languages across Europe (and even the world!)
It flows quite romantically and after all… it’s called “the language of love” for a reason.
8. It’s Beautiful in Every Season
If you’ve been reading any Paris travel journals or guidebooks lately, you have probably heard that the best time to visit Paris is in the summers when the weather is at its warmest and businesses are in full swing.
But, I don’t quite agree with that stance… Paris is beautiful all throughout the year! In my article linked above, I go more in-depth about why the spring and fall shoulder seasons are the best time to visit Paris, however, there are wonderful pros to visiting any time of the year.
In the summers, yes you’ll find great weather and lots of festivals, but there will also be tens of thousands more tourists and long lines at all of the restaurants and attractions.
In the shoulder seasons, you’re more likely to experience some rain (I actually find Paris in the rain quite romantic), but accommodation and travel rates have dropped and most of the tourists have left the city providing you with the ultimate local experience!
In the winters, you can find an ice skating rink inside the Eiffel Tower as well as endless Christmas markets serving up hot, mulled wine and exquisite handmade crafts and hand-painted ornaments.
If “why visit Paris” is still coming up in your conversations, just remember that no matter when you decide to visit Paris, it will be beautiful!
9. To Discover the World-Renowned Museums
Paris is home to some of the most impressive museums in Europe! Whether you’re an art or history buff looking to explore every nook and cranny of the incredible exhibits on offer, or are simply a tourist looking to get a selfie with the famous Mona Lisa painting, I’m certain that there is something here you will find interesting.
If the ladder is more your style, be sure to book your Louvre tickets online in advance and make note of any Covid-19 precautions they have.
There are also dozens of museums worth exploring… over 125 to be exact!
Explore some mid-19th-century French sculptures at the Musée d’Orsay located in a former railway station or stroll the halls of the Musée de Cluny which can be found in the Abbey House and contains dozens of impressive tapestries from the 15th century!
10. Why Visit Paris? To Cruise the Seine River!
To walk the streets of Paris is one thing, but to navigate the mighty Seine via cruise line is another! Whether you’re looking for an exciting and adventurous Parisian experience or are simply hoping to sit back and relax as someone else takes you around the French capital, both can be done on a Seine cruise.
While they do have boat tours operating at all hours of the day, the evening ones in the summers are particularly delightful. Enjoy a rooftop dinner while gliding by the Eiffel Tower, then relax in a chair with a blanket and a glass of wine as you watch all of the sparkling city lights glisten on the river.
Seine River cruises are quite popular among tourists, so I suggest doing some research ahead of time on the local companies and what the ride includes. Advanced bookings are also recommended to prevent any disappointment!
11. To Enjoy an Apéritifat a Streetside Cafe
You’ve heard me say it before, but Paris isn’t only known for its outstanding attractions and beautiful scenery. It’s also well known for its numerous outdoor cafes boasting everything from waiters dressed in black tie to more relaxed cafes with wine carafes and fresh French bread.
Even if you aren’t interested in spending your time waltzing back and forth across bridges in search of famed gardens and prestigious stores, there is a lot of good to be had while enjoying an apéritifat a streetside cafe!
Meet the locals, relish in the simplicity of people-watching, and sample the refreshing local beverages offered in Paris.
Apéritifs also pair well with local meats, cheeses, fondue, and breads, as well as some patisseries and desserts like crème brûlée. So, why visit Paris? Because it’s one of the best places in the world to enjoy a beverage on its charming side streets with friendly locals!
12. You can Visit on Any Budget
Whether you plan on visiting on a backpacker’s budget or have extensive funding for your travels, Paris has you covered.
You can find everything from shared dormitories in hostels with singular bathrooms per floor to luxurious presidential suites with views of the Eiffel Tower on the top floor of a grand hotel. No matter how you wish to experience Paris, you can be sure to find something in your price range.
In addition to accommodations, you can also find a wide range of pricing for things like transportation methods, food, and even attractions!
My One Day in Paris itinerary covers everything you’ll need to know about how to receive discounts on the local museums and sites, as well as my latest tips and travel hacks for visiting Paris on a budget.
If you don’t believe me when I say you truly can visit on ANY budget, I visited when I was in college with just my work-study money to my name… if I can do it on that tight of a budget, so can you!
13. To Have a Picnic
If you enjoy relaxing in the sun on a comfortable blanket with a glass of wine or coffee, a good book, and either just yourself or friends, then a picnic in Paris needs to be on your bucket list.
As you may already know, Paris has several excellent parks to do this on. The Luxembourg Gardens are one of the most popular places to do this, but since the art of “picnicking” is quite common among tourists and locals alike, there are lots of places to soak up some sun.
The Jardin desTuileries, or the Tuileries Garden, is on the right bank just across from the Orsay Museum and offers one of the best local parks in Paris! Backed by two museums, a fun ferris wheel, and a beautiful, central fountain, you can’t go wrong by choosing to lay your blanket here.
There are also plenty of others including the Champ de Mars (the lawn in front of the Eiffel Tower) and the Parc Monceau in the 8th arrondissement.
14. Why Visit Paris? To Watch the Eiffel Tower Sparkle!
Most people only ever see pictures or movies with the Eiffel Tower sparkling in all its glory, but you could be one of the few that gets to see it in person!
When thinking of all of the reasons to visit Paris, seeing the Eiffel Tower do its phenomenal light show after dark should be high on your list. It’s a spectacular sight to see and is also quite romantic!
The light show happens every hour on the hour after dark and lasts for 5 minutes, so if you’re planning on popping a very special question to a very special someone, you really couldn’t ask for a better time.
If you were hoping for a little more privacy for your special moment, I suggest finding a quiet side street with excellent views of the light show, but without all of the people… you can usually find some all around the 7th arrondissement!
15. To Slow Down Time
The Parisians not only know how to party in style, but also how to relax like nobody’s business. Spend your days strolling the city parks, enjoying the flora and fauna of the Luxembourg Gardens, or walking along the Seine!
Paris is the perfect place to sit back and enjoy a glass of wine while people-watching at a quaint streetside cafe. So, why visit Paris, you ask?
Because you can literally spend hours on end “sightseeing” when you’re really just walking between patisseries seeking out the best croissant in Paris.
A weekend in Paris is the ultimate way to let all of your “normal life” stresses melt away. Instead of worrying about getting between destinations quickly, spend some time sampling the cheese and wine, listening to the church bells of the Notre Dame, and even sitting on a Seine River cruise.
It may just be the most relaxing place of your whole vacation!
16. To Appreciate its Uniqueness
Paris really is unlike anywhere else in the world. With dozens of European cities and towns under my belt, I’ve never seen or heard of another place where you can see such beauty and charm while simultaneously enjoying unparalleled cuisine and elegance.
Paris offers incredible attractions and activities for travelers of all budgets, while also maintaining its high level of sophistication and unchangeable culture. And with its dozens of Michelin-star restaurants, calling Paris “luxurious” is a vast understatement.
Whether you’re looking for a cozy, candlelit dinner in the snow or a lively nightclub with an exotic dance floor and trendy cocktails, Paris has it all!
Even if you don’t really have an answer to the question, “why visit Paris?”, you should visit for at least a few days to appreciate how different it is from any other European city and almost all other cities in the world.
17. To Take in All of Its Beautiful Sights
Outside of its famous landmarks and impressive museums, Paris is home to some of the most amazing sights I have ever seen.
By simply walking the streets of this French city, you can come across street artists painting Mona Lisa’s on the sidewalk, guitarists singing on the cobblestones, boats gliding by the Eiffel Tower, and two lovers placing a lock on one of the many bridges all over the city.
I found Paris to be full of different personalities and people from all over the world who came together to be in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.
You can also find charming outdoor markets, marvelous book stores, and everything in between. While Paris is often recognized for its iconic landmarks, renowned museums, and Michelin-star cuisine, it has far more to offer than that!
You just need to slow down and take a look at the smaller things going on around you. If you’re wondering why you should visit Paris, consider going just for its magical ambiance and beautiful sights everywhere you look!
18. Why Visit Paris? To Learn About Its History!
Did you know that Paris began all the way back in the 3rd century? And that there are underground ossuaries holding the remains of over six million people beneath the city? I didn’t before I visited.
During the Revolution and the city’s multitude of tragic wars, Parisians who were killed were brought underground to a place now known as the Catacombs of Paris. Today, you can visit these ossuaries and witness the millions of skulls that have been artfully placed throughout the tunnels.
Throughout the city’s museums, you can also find information dating back to hunter-gatherers making claims to the land during the 9th century and see how the French capital transformed over time into the bustling, cultural metropolis it is today.
Even for those who don’t call themselves “history enthusiasts”, the history of Paris is no doubt interesting and surprising to most!
19. To Revel In Its Exciting Night Scene
Whether you’re 20 and heading to Paris with some friends or in your late 70s and looking for the perfect bottle of wine to bring home with you, Paris has something for all ages.
Across the city, you can find underground nightclubs, trendy bars, hip cafes, and quirky joints overflowing with teenagers and young adults dancing to live music and drinking colorful cocktails.
But, if you were hoping to witness a more casual side of Paris’ night scene, there are also dozens of sophisticated rooftop bars offering extensive wine lists with views of the Eiffel Tower!
Paris’ nightlife is one of the best in Europe mainly owing to its diverse range of eclectic joints offering different kinds of music and catering to the styles of all ages.
No matter how old you are, you can be sure that Paris will have some fun times waiting for you!
20. To Stand Before Its Iconic Landmarks
The Eiffel Tower, the Notre Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, the Arc de Triomphe, Luxembourg Gardens, Le Louvre… need I say more?
Paris is home to dozens of exceptional sights and attractions as well as iconic landmarks that are equally as beautiful.
If you’re asking yourself, “why visit Paris?”, the answer is simple – the city’s landmarks are easily recognized worldwide and they are well worth a visit on any trip to France, or even Europe for that matter!
Spend some time perusing the Luxembourg Gardens, climb the Arc de Triomphe, and enjoy a Michelin-star meal inside the Eiffel Tower. You can also visit in the winter and go ice skating on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower!
Personally, I loved stepping back and just listening to the Notre Dame bells ring… it was something so pure and beautiful that I haven’t heard anywhere else and often think of it as one of my favorite memories from visiting Paris.
21. Explore Its Centuries of Beautiful Artwork
Ever heard of Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa? Or Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People? What about Van Gogh’s Self Portrait?
If any of these are ringing a bell, then it’s likely that you’ll enjoy Paris and its extensive network of art exhibitions and vast collections from some of the most famous artists of all time.
Many of these famous works can be found in the museums we discussed such as Le Louvre, Le Musée d’Orsay, and Musée de Cluny, however, there are thousands of more works to be discovered in the dozens of other museums throughout the city!
Many of the works found in Paris date back centuries, so you can feel as though you’ve been swept back in time to the Mesolithic Period of France.
In addition to the works found inside the museums and art galleries, you’ll also likely witness beautiful street art around every corner.
22. Why Visit Paris? To Catch a Show at the Moulin Rouge
As one of the most iconic things to do in Paris, the Moulin Rouge should be reason enough alone to answer your “why visit Paris” question! With some of the most exciting performances in Europe, a night out to the Moulin Rouge is often a bucket list item for many travelers.
Guests who attend can choose between two types of tickets: just the show or dinner and a show. Those who choose to have dinner at the theatre will be rewarded with some of the best seating in the house!
Catch a traditional cabaret, similarly known as the “can-can dance”, and spend the evening listening to singing and dancing by some legendary performers making their way through Europe!
Since tickets book up fast, be sure to reserve your ticket online in advance well before your trip.
23. Its Incredible Size
Did you know that many people end up visiting Paris two or even three times during their travels? It’s true!
Paris is very large, although not as large as London, New York City, or other foreign cities, and many of its attractions are widely spread out. For example, it would take you nearly 35 minutes to walk from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe or even upwards of an hour if you wanted to walk to the Panthéon!
If you plan on visiting Paris at least once in your life, you’ll want to try and fit in many of the major landmarks, museums, and attractions, however, depending on how much time you have this isn’t always possible.
So, if this article convinces you to visit Paris, keep in mind that you’ll likely need at least 3 days or more if you plan to see all of the major sights and attractions.
You will have the city’s well-organized public transportation system to help you out (I highly suggest taking advantage of the metro for long distances), so at least you’ll have that in your favor!.
24. Why Visit Paris? To Take Day Trips to Nearby Cities!
After you’ve spent enough time exploring Paris (I recommend at least 3 days in Paris), it is by no means time to go home. Instead, you can spend some time traveling to one of the dozens of nearby destinations right around the corner!
From Colmar and Strasbourg to the beaches of Normandy and Mont Saint-Michel, there are years worth of French destinations that you could discover on these day trips from Paris. Not to mention some incredible wine tours from Paris, as well, particularly to the Bordeaux wine region.
To make it easy, Paris is also home to one of the most highly-developed public transportation systems worldwide, so you can hop right on a bus, train, or plane to get anywhere you need to go in France.
Even if you’re asking yourself why you should visit Paris, consider visiting even if only to use it as a base for further France exploration! Though, you may want to consider giving yourself at least a few hours here or a flexible schedule in case you decide to increase your time in Paris.
25. Why Not Visit Paris?
So, why visit Paris you ask? How about instead, you ask yourself “why shouldn’t I visit Paris?“
If you can come up with three reasonable, valid reasons not to visit Paris, then by all means skip it! But, I truly do think you would enjoy even just one small piece of this remarkable city…
Just to reiterate, in Paris, you can find everything from exciting history and beautiful landmarks to divine cuisine and picture-perfect scenery. You don’t have to spend your days bouncing between museums or waiting in line at attractions, but instead, you could relax and enjoy a picnic with a view of the Seine River.
Paris doesn’t have to be about getting caught up in all of the neverending excitement. You can choose to take part in as relaxing or adventurous of a vacation here as you please.
So, when you find yourself questioning whether a visit to Paris would be worth your time, consider asking yourself to come up with three good reasons why Paris wouldn’t be worth your time. But, I have a good feeling that this will be harder than you think!
🌎 Pssst… I’m actually a full-time Travel Planner when I’m not writing about Paris. Simply fill out the contact form below, and we’ll get started right away on a unique vacation that caters to your personal travel style and preferences!
Paris is so full of life, energy, and beauty all around. With proclaimed streets, iconic landmarks, amazing sights and scenery, it’s easy to get caught up in all that there is to do here.
But, if you find yourself on the other end of this and are asking yourself why visit Paris over and over again, simply consider the 25 reasons to visit Paris I have provided you with above. If you can find even just one thing that you think you would enjoy, then go!
There are many unfortunate stereotypes regarding the French capital, however, until you see it with your own two eyes you’ll never know any of them to be true.
I hope these 25 reasons to visit Paris spark your interests and you find yourself no longer wondering “why visit Paris” in the first place!
Cheers!
Emily