Top 5 Things To Do in Paris, France

The food, the fashion, the flea markets... Make the most of your holiday overseas with our guide to the top 5 things to do in Paris, France. We'll help you experience the best the world has to offer.

1. Explore the markets

They're a way of life in the French capital and a place to pick up some amazing finds. Wander through the food markets at Rue Mouffetard or Rue de Buci, the contemporary art market at Bastille, or one of the city's many Marches aux Puces (flea markets). They're great for browsing and people watching, even if you're not buying.

2. Take in the views

Paris is a truly beautiful city, and where better to enjoy it than from up on high? There are plenty of superb vantage points to choose from - the Eiffel Tower being the most popular, then there's the Arc de Triomphe, Montparnasse Tower, and the steps of the Sacre Coeur. And if you can cope with the spiral stairs, Notre Dame is also well worth the climb, for the incredible view from the top.

3. Get arty

If you're into your art, Paris has more than its fair share of museums and galleries. There's the Louvre, of course, with its enormous range of exhibits and paintings, including Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa. And for more modern art fans, the Pompidou Centre takes some beating.

4. Shop, shop, shop

Your budget may not stretch to the haute couture of the Champs Elysees, but if you love shopping, this is definitely the city for it. The department stores near Opera are a great starting point. Printemps and Galeries Lafayette are both over 100 years old, and are beautiful buildings in themselves, as well as being wonderful shopping destinations.

5. Tantalise your tastebuds

Eating is a national pastime in France, and you'll find charming bistrots on practically ever corner in Paris. The set menus offer the best value, and are what most Parisians tend to go for. And if it's good weather, picnicking is a great option too. Pick yourself up a baguette, some cheese, a few pastries, and head to one of the city's wonderful squares or parks. The Jardins du Luxembourg, for example, is a perfect lunchtime venue.

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