Things to do in Orsay

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.

A former palace, today the Musée du Louvre now houses a collection of art that is worthy of several kings. This enormous building contains many kilometres of corridors, making it one of the largest museums in the world. It is easy to spend an entire day exploring the centuries of artworks on display here – the museum houses everything from paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, Near Eastern antiquities, Egyptian antiquities, Islamic art, prints and drawings, to Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities. Some of the oldest objects in the collections date from 5000 BC, with the most recent coming from the 19th century.

Paris’ triumphal arch has welcomed visitors for centuries. Standing at the meeting point of 12 major Parisian roads, including the iconic Champs-Élysées, this imposing monument is so much more than just the centrepiece of a roundabout!

Situated at the very heart of Paris, Notre Dame Cathedral remains one of the most stunning icons of this beautiful city. The cathedral sits on island in the River Seine, called Île de la Cité – the central point from which distances from Paris to all parts of France are measured. Immortalised in countless novels and films, this centre of worship has been built and rebuilt over the centuries into the monument it is today – with construction beginning in 1163, and ending two hundred years later, and a massive restoration project taking place over two decades in the mid-19th century – a testament to the people of France and to their faith.

Walk along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and gaze up at the imposing Arc de Triomphe. Discover the history behind the intricate carvings decorating it. Enjoy the walk along the boulevard and shop in the designer stores lining the road.

Treat yourself to an evening of classical entertainment at the Paris Opera (Opéra National de Paris). Admire the handsome architecture and luxurious interiors of Palais Garnier, the home of this historic French opera company. Learn about the 300-year-old past of the Paris Opera via art collections, multimedia displays and museum exhibits.

Situated on the outskirts of Paris, La Défense is a busy urban area that started life as an economic centre and has attracted thousands of Parisians who flock to the area for work, and business travellers who take advantage of the many hotels here.