Things to see and to do in Paris
City of love, city of light, Paris never ceases to shine visitors and locals alike. Bubbling with arts and culture, nightlife, music, food, sports, history and world-class shopping: Paris has something for everyone.
Museums and exhibitions
Paris has long been an artistic and cultural powerhouse, and a stay in the capital includes a visit to its illustrious museums and lesser-known collections. The Louvre, Centre Pompidou, Musée d'Orsay and Petit Palais are obviously must-sees, but be sure to expand your options and discover the capital's lesser-known gems as well to make the most of Paris' cultural scene. The Musée du Quai Branly houses a formidable collection of exhibits of non-European culture; the Musée des Arts et des Métiers is a stunning testament to France's rich scientific and engineering heritage; while other museums are dedicated to a single artist, such as the Picasso, Rodin or Delacroix museums. The Institut du Monde Arabe, and the Jacquemart André Museum, an impressive mansion with a remarkable private collection, are among the many themed and private museums in Paris.
In addition to exhibitions, several museums also organize regular conferences. This is the case of the Louvre, which often organizes events, around a myriad of themes, open to the public. Go to the websites of the museums you wish to visit, most of which are available in several languages, for updates on events, exhibitions and seminars.
Young Europeans under the age of 26 have free access to permanent exhibitions in Paris. Rates for the main museums in Paris are around 9 euros, while rates for temporary exhibitions are around 15 euros. You can get free admission to several important museums in Paris on the first Sunday of the month.
The ballet and the opera in Paris
The ballet and the opera of Paris are famous all over the world. The illustrious Palais Garnier, recognizable by its famous green roof and elaborate architecture, was built by Charles Garnier in the 19th century and is one of the most impressive structures in the city. Both the Paris National Opera and the more modern Opéra Bastille are based at the Palais Garnier, so expect an impressive program of ballet, dance and opera at both venues. A stroll around the opera district itself would reveal exceptional views, including the elegant Place Vendôme and the Ritz. Consider venturing inside the Palais Garnier to enjoy the breathtaking surroundings and world-class performances. Otherwise, there are also guided tours of the Palais Garnier that are not to be missed.
At the Opéra Bastille, you will discover a modern opera house with a rich program of opera, symphony and occasional ballet performances.
People under 26 are eligible for interesting discounts at the Palais Garnier as well as at the Opéra Bastille.
Theaters in Paris
Paris has a vibrant theater scene that showcases both amateur and professional productions. Founded in the 17th century, the Comédie Française is a cultural institution in France and has welcomed French theater stars to its stage with performances by Molière, Racine, Beaumarchais, Voltaire and Hugo. Many theater performances also offer English subtitles, and English-language performances are also available. Aside from the classics, many aspiring contemporary artists often perform in Paris, so to keep up with the latest plays and shows, visit the Officiel des Spectacles. Don't forget that Paris is also home to a collection of smaller theaters where you can find stand-up shows, new plays and classic dramatic works. People under 26 years old can also benefit from preferential rates here.
Cinema in Paris
French cinema is held in the highest esteem around the world, so it's no surprise that Paris has a lot to offer when it comes to movies. With screenings in multi-screen cinemas as well as small independent cinemas in the Latin Quarter, you'll find everything from classics to the latest blockbusters. If you're looking for the English version of the latest films, look for the VOST label which means that the film has not yet been dubbed into French but still has French subtitles. Going to the cinema is definitely to add to your list of things to do in Paris.
Paris by night
Whatever your musical tastes, the Paris nightlife scene is the place to be, whether you want to listen to jazz in a Latin Quarter club or dance the night away to electro. Hip and casual places like La Bellevilloise, L'Alimentation Générale and Comptoir Général should be on your radar for their lively schedule of events, DJs and live music. For jazz, renowned venues like Duc des Lombards and Sunset-Sunside are joined by smaller basement clubs like Caveau des Oubliettes and 38 Riv. For clubs, you can go to Nuits Fauves, Concrete, the classic Rex Club, the intimate L'Entrée des Artistes or La Station.
The bars
With a burgeoning craft cocktail scene and a newfound love for speakeasies, expert mixologists will be in their element in Paris. For those who like a little secrecy, names like Moonshiner, Candelaria, Lavomatic and Little Red Door are classic addresses, while great cocktails are served all over the city at trendy spots like Le Syndicat, Gravity Bar, Marie Celeste and - of course - the famous Hemingway Bar at the Ritz. Wine lovers are spoiled for choice at Paris' wine bars, where cheese and charcuterie platters can be enjoyed with affordable French wines. Student bars and affordable prices are plentiful around Rue Mouffetard in the Latin Quarter, and all over the city you'll find Parisians and tourists and expats enjoying a beer on the terrace, a classic Parisian pastime year-round. Do not forget the bistros too to enjoy a little Parisian gastronomy.
Useful links:
Official Showcase
Discounted Theater
Paris National Opera
Official website of Paris
What to do in Paris
Tuileries Gardens
Le Bonbon
Time Out
Le Globo
