Things to do in Left Bank

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most enduring symbols of Paris and a key part of any visit to the city. And it’s hard to miss this iconic structure, as it stands 323 metres above the Champ de Mars (field of Mars) on the left bank of the River Seine. Take your time to wander around the beautifully landscaped park at the base of the tower and admire the stunning views.

Situated in the heart of the Latin Quarter, on the left bank of the Seine, the Jardins de Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens) offer a breath of fresh air in this busy city, for locals and visitors alike.

In the late 18th century, the city of Paris was facing a problem – water supplies were becoming contaminated because of overcrowding in graveyards, which was leading to health problems among inhabitants. The city’s government came up with an ingenious solution: move existing bones into the abandoned underground limestone quarries to create more space in the graveyards. The result can be seen today in the fascinating Paris Catacombs, which have been a tourist attraction since 1874.

Les Invalides is a historic military complex that includes several museums, monuments and churches. Brush up on French military history at its trio of museums, stroll along the grand lawns of the Esplanade des Invalides and see the ostentatious tomb of the famous French dictator Napoleon Bonaparte.

Lie in the sun at the park-like setting of Champ de Mars and peer up to enjoy some of the best views of France's most famous landmark, the Eiffel Tower. Take a picnic with you or just admire the poignant memorial, Le Mur pour La Paix, that stands at one end of the park.