The Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral district, on theÎle de la Cité, is the historic heart of the capital, and is even considered the cradle of Lutetia. Strolling through these narrow streets, tourists find themselves transported in the blink of an eye to the Paris of yesteryear, with the majestic Gothic cathedral in their sights.
But there's more to the district than just the cathedral! Look up and stroll around the area, taking in the many bridges linking theÎle de la Cité andÎle Saint-Louis to the capital's Left and Right banks, passing by the beautiful local churches, not forgetting a visit to the Sainte-Chapelle to admire its 1,113 breathtaking stained-glass windows.
Take a breather in one of the charming squares on the banks of the Seine, before enjoying a meal in one of the many cafés and restaurants in the area. The two islands facing each other have a lot to offer, so follow the guide!
The Conciergerie in Paris: a monument symbolic of the French Revolution
The Conciergerie is a historic building on the Ile de la Cité in Paris. Since its construction in the 10th century, this monument has been the seat of the Palais de Justice and a prison in turn. It was here that Marie-Antoinette was imprisoned. [Read more]
La Conciergerie, the former royal residence and revolutionary prison on the Île de la Cité
Right in the heart of Paris, not far from Notre-Dame Cathedral or the Sainte-Chapelle with its magnificent stained glass windows, the Conciergerie is an imposing building with a rich history: this palace, which was also a prison, is one of our national monuments and a must-see if you want to find out more about the history of Paris. [Read more]
The Sainte-Chapelle and its 1113 stained-glass windows, a true Gothic jewel in Paris
The Sainte-Chapelle is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful buildings in Paris, with its 1113 colorful stained-glass windows depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. This 800-year-old Gothic gem becomes a magical place under the sun. [Read more]
Saint-Louis-en-l'Île church on Île Saint-Louis
The Eglise Saint-Louis-en-l'Ile is a beautiful, richly decorated church not to be missed on your stroll around the Île Saint-Louis! [Read more]
Eglise Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois, opposite the Louvre
Just outside the Louvre, why not take a look at the Eglise Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois, a beautiful church in the 1st arrondissement of Paris? [Read more]
Did you know? What is the history of the Magnolias in the Jardin du Palais Royal?
It's magnolia season in the gardens of the Palais Royal! Over the past few days, the majestic trees have been decked out in beautiful shades of pink and purple, much to the delight of walkers, tourists and photographers alike. But do you know why there are magnolias in this garden? Back in history... [Read more]
Did you know? This is the oldest clock in Paris, discover its history
Do you know the oldest public clock in Paris, still in operation? Fixed to the walls of the Conciergerie in the heart of the Ïle de la Cité, this clock has been telling the time since 1371. Commissioned by Charles V, the clock marks the king's time. [Read more]
History of Paris: the Cemetery of the Innocents and what remains of it today
Did you know? In the Halles district of Paris, there was once a well-known cemetery in the capital: the Cimetière des Innocents (or Saint Innocents' Cemetery). Discover its fascinating history and the few remaining vestiges. [Read more]
Did you know? Discover 3 anecdotes about the Pont Neuf
Did you know? The Pont Neuf is the oldest bridge in Paris. But that's not all... [Read more]
Did you know? Where does the name Seine come from?
Have you ever wondered about the origins of the Seine's name? Originating from the commune of Sources-Seine in Burgundy, this river is named after a Celtic goddess, Sequana. We tell you all about its history and legend. [Read more]
Did you know? Châtelet-Les Halles is the world's largest underground station.
Who hasn't got lost in the Châtelet-Les Halles metro station? You've got a good excuse, because this underground station is the biggest in Europe, and even in the world - a real labyrinth! [Read more]
Did you know? 4 anecdotes about the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris
Do you know the Théâtre du Châtelet? Here are 4 anecdotes about this iconic Parisian theater! [Read more]
JEMA 2024 in Paris: the Louvre Museum opens the doors to its art studios
For the 18th edition of the Journées européennes des métiers d'art, the Musée du Louvre is opening its doors to visitors free of charge, to discover the many craftsmen and craftswomen who bring the museum to life. To be experienced on April 6 and 7, 2024. [Read more]
Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris: the reopening of this emblematic monument is eagerly awaited
With its thirteen million visitors a year, Notre-Dame de Paris cathedral is one of the capital's must-sees. A place of worship as well as a monument, it has witnessed the history of Paris since its construction. Announced for December 8, 2024, its reopening is eagerly awaited. [Read more]
The Paris archaeological crypt under Notre-Dame Cathedral
The archaeological crypt beneath the forecourt of Notre-Dame in Paris is a real step back in time. Here's what to expect when you visit. [Read more]
Did you know? France's roads start at ground zero, in front of Notre-Dame de Paris.
Paris' long history gives it a number of advantages, not least that of being the starting point for all the roads in France. It has been the country's capital for centuries, and is home to ground zero, located on the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral. [Read more]
Ephemeris of September 2 in Paris: The September Massacres
On September 2, 1792, the Sans-Culottes broke into Paris prisons and massacred a thousand inmates suspected of being counter-revolutionaries and in favor of the King's return. [Read more]
Ephemeris of August 28 in Paris: The Black Death epidemic
In August 1348, Paris faced a terrible disease that spared neither women, children, nobles nor the poor. Within 4 years, the Black Death epidemic would decimate a third of the Parisian population. [Read more]
Ephemeris of August 24 in Paris: The St Bartholomew's Day Massacre
On August 24, 1572, 4,000 Huguenots were brutally murdered in Paris during the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre, the culmination of the Wars of Religion between Catholics and Protestants. [Read more]
History fact, it happened on August 22 in Paris: Mona Lisa is stolen from the Louvre
On August 22, 1911, Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa disappear from the Louvre right under the watchmen’s noses. People are stunned. Two years later, Mona Lisa’s smile is found in the sun of Florence. [Read more]
History fact: it happened on August 18 in Paris, Henry IV’s wedding at Notre-Dame de Paris
On August 18, 1572, Henry of Navarre – future king Henry IV – marries Marguerite of Valois – or Queen Margot – the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral. An alliance by way of reconciliation between the Catholic and the Protestant Churches that will lead to the St. Bartholomew’s Day massacre in spite of everything. [Read more]
Ephemeris of August 10 in Paris: Sans-Culottes seize the Tuileries Palace
On August 10, 1792, the Sans-Culottes stormed the Tuileries Palace in a bloody day that sounded the death knell for royalty and monarchy in France. [Read more]
Pont-Neuf restoration nears completion
When it was built, the Pont-Neuf was the bridge of innovations. After several months of renovation, the Pont-Neuf enters its final stage! [Read more]
The Tuileries Gardens, the ideal place in Paris to go green
The Tuileries Gardens are a must-see in Paris! This 23-hectare green space runs alongside the Rue de Rivoli and the Seine, linking the Louvre Museum and the Place de la Concorde. Classified as a historic monument in 1914, it has also been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. It features magnificent historical statues, accompanied by works of art. [Read more]
Place Dauphine
On the Île de la Cité, not far from the Conciergerie and the Sainte-Chapelle, Place Dauphine welcomes Parisians and tourists tired of the hustle and bustle of the surrounding area. For the record, it was named in honor of the 1601 birth of the Dauphin, the future Louis XIII. The trees and benches of this beautiful triangular square (a shape that inspired surrealist author André Breton to nickname it the "Sex of Paris") make it the perfect place to relax in the heart of Paris, or to play a game of pétanque with the locals!
The Fountain of the Virgin
Built in an astonishing neo-Gothic style, the Fountain of the Virgin stands not far from another Gothic monument: the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-Paris. Quite simply, you can even see the two in the same shot. Located in Square Jean XXIII, this fountain with its slender, jagged spire, built by Alphonse Vigoureux, supports a statue of the Virgin and Child, sculpted by Louis Merlieux.
Paris Boat Club, a tailor-made private cruise on the Seine in Paris
How about a private cruise on the Seine? Are you looking for an exceptional experience, a way to visit Paris without the crowds, to see the capital's most beautiful monuments and bridges in a privileged way? We've tested the Paris Boat Club and its tailor-made cruises for an enchanted interlude. [Read more]
Restaurants in the 1st arrondissement of Paris: Where to eat in the district? Our best addresses
Looking for a good restaurant in Paris' 1st arrondissement? Follow the guide to discover our best addresses, our latest discoveries and our favorites! [Read more]
Restaurants in the 4th arrondissement of Paris: Where to eat in the district? Our best addresses
Enjoy a gourmet break at one of the finest restaurants in Paris' 4th arrondissement! Follow the guide to discover our best addresses, our latest discoveries and our favorites! [Read more]
Le Tout-Paris at Cheval Blanc Paris wins its 1st Michelin star
Le Tout-Paris, the sublime restaurant that rules the capital, wins its first Michelin star. Located on the 7ᵉ floor of the Cheval Blanc Paris, with a terrace boasting breathtaking views of the Seine and the capital's iconic monuments, you'll discover William Bequin's beautiful contemporary French cuisine, generous and well mastered. [Read more]
Hakuba Paris, the new Japanese restaurant at Cheval Blanc has opened its doors
Cheval Blanc Paris opens its Japanese restaurant. Hakuba has taken the place of the long-established Limbar. On the first floor of the palace, you can now discover the creations of sushi master Takuya Watanabe, in association with chefs Arnaud Donckele and Maxime Frédéric. [Read more]
LV Dream: the Café "Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton" unveils its savoury menu
Maxime Frédéric at Louis Vuitton, the Café at the heart of LV Dream, has added a new savory menu, emblazoned with the Maison's famous monogram. After discovering the free exhibition of emblematic and innovative Louis Vuitton creations, continue the experience upstairs by savoring a variety of dishes imagined by the Pastry Chef, not forgetting a visit to the chocolate shop and boutique! [Read more]
Langosteria at Cheval Blanc Paris: Italy invites itself with treasures from the sea
A Langosteria restaurant is set to open at Cheval Blanc Paris in September 2021, with the desire to offer the best of Italian fish, seafood and shellfish in one of Paris's finest hotels. [Read more]
Maslow, comforting vegetarian cuisine on the banks of the Seine
On the banks of the Seine, Maslow makes vegetarian cuisine mouth-watering with melted cheese. [Read more]
Cova launches its chic aperitivo in its patisserie next to La Samaritaine
Every Thursday, Pasticceria Cova, located right next to La Samaritaine, offers a chic aperitivo, Il Giovedi da Cova! The idea? You choose your cocktail and enjoy a selection of tasty bites and small dishes. We've tried it and we'll tell you all about it! [Read more]
Paris: Yann Brys opens a Tourbillon pastry shop in the 4th district
Notice to all sweet tooths! Yann Brys, Meilleur Ouvrier de France, has opened his new Tourbillon pastry shop in Paris, after the one already established in Saulx-les-Chartreux, in Essonne. This time, he's heading for the Île-Saint-Louis, in the 4th arrondissement, to open the doors of this ultra-gourmet spot! [Read more]
La Pasticceria Cova, pastry shop, tea time and beautiful Italian terrace
La Pasticceria Cova is the new café-tea room that has taken its place in the corner just in front of the Samaritaine. This mythical Milanese institution with its refined decor and creative pastries now opens its arms to us in Paris. You can sit down all day long, from breakfast to tea-time, including aperitivo, inside or on the large terrace overlooking the department store and the quays. [Read more]
Le Saint-Régis, the 100% Parisian brasserie on the Ile-Saint-Louis
Want to savor the best of Parisian bistronomy? Let's go to Saint-Régis, the typical bistro in the Ile-Saint-Louis district that offers the best of bistronomic cuisine in the heart of Paris. Eggs Benedict, hot goat salad, croque monsieur, salmon and avocado tartar... What a treat! [Read more]
Bo&Mie opens the largest bakery in Paris, photos & video
There's no stopping Bo&Mie! One year after the opening of its second spot, the team behind the famous bakery-pastry shop has opened its 3rd address. And not just any address, since it's the biggest bakery in Paris. 400 m2, 3 floors and all located on rue de Rivoli, opposite the Louvre. You'll love it. [Read more]
The Musée du fromage opens in Paris
The Musée Vivant du fromage opens its doors in Paris, in the 4ᵉ arrondissement, this June 3, 2024. A unique immersive and interactive experience is the promise of this new venue, which will showcase our French culinary and terroir heritage. [Read more]
Musée du Louvre: discover the artistic and tourist heart of the capital
The Musée du Louvre, one of the capital's must-see museums, promotes French and European culture through its many masterpieces on display, as evidenced by the 8 million visitors a year who come to contemplate the smile of the Mona Lisa or the fervor of Liberty Guiding the People. A place steeped in history, where art has been flourishing for two centuries already, to discover if you're staying in Paris! [Read more]
Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris: programming, opening hours, history... All you need to know
The Musée de l'Orangerie is famous for Monet's Water Lilies. But the museum holds many other treasures... Here's everything you need to know to visit. [Read more]
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the must-see Parisian museum dedicated to design and fashion
Just a stone's throw from the Jardin des Tuileries and the Louvre Pyramid, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs occupies the Rohan and Marsan wings of the Palais du Louvre, with permanent collections and temporary exhibitions that are a must-see for all Paris design enthusiasts. [Read more]
The Musée en Herbe, a child-sized cultural venue in the Marais district of Paris
In the Marais district of Paris, the Musée en Herbe offers the youngest visitors a chance to discover art, through fun, interactive exhibitions for young and old alike, aged 3 to 103. [Read more]
Olympism, a modern invention: the exhibition between art and sport at the Musée du Louvre, our photos
The Musée du Louvre is gearing up for the Olympic Games, with a brand-new, sporting exhibition. From April 24 to September 16, 2024, discover "Olympism, a modern invention, an ancient heritage". [Read more]
The birth of department stores, a double exhibition at the heart of these mythical Parisian landmarks
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs and the Cité de l'Architecture take us to the heart of the legendary addresses of Parisian art de vivre with "The Birth of Department Stores", a two-part exhibition. Visit the MAD from April 10 to October 13, 2024, then from October 16, 2024 to March 16, 2025, to discover the history of these temples to fashion right up to the present day. [Read more]
Musée du Louvre: a free nocturne on May 3, the first Friday of the month
It's the perfect opportunity to take advantage of every month, without exception: the Musée du Louvre opens its doors free of charge to all visitors, on the first Friday of each month, after 6pm. Next date to remember: May 3, 2024 . [Read more]
Fashion Faux Parr: Martin Parr's free photo exhibition in an Île Saint-Louis gallery
Fashion through the singular eyes of Martin Parr is what awaits you until May 26, 2024 at Galerie Clémentine de la Féronnière. Head to the Île Saint-Louis to discover a free exhibition retracing 25 years of fashion photography imbued with the artist's realistic, kitsch and arch-color aesthetic. [Read more]
Fashion, design and jewelry: the exhibition for fashion lovers at the Musée des Arts Déco
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs pays tribute to couturiers and designers, and unveils several masterpieces from its collections, in a never-before-seen exhibition. From April 3 to November 10, 2024, come and admire Parcours mode, design, bijoux. [Read more]
The tree of a thousand voices: an original sculpture installed on the Carrousel bridge
Spring has brought a curious tree to life in front of the Carrousel bridge on Quai Voltaire. From March 21 to May 21, 2024, come and admire this outdoor sculpture by Daniel Hourdé. [Read more]
The Van Eyck exhibition at the Louvre unveils: (re)discover La Vierge du chancelier Rolin (The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin)
To mark the restoration of Van Eyck's masterpiece The Virgin of Chancellor Rolin, the Musée du Louvre is unveiling an exceptional exhibition featuring the largest number of Van Eyck's works ever presented in France. From March 20 to June 17, 2024, we're off to the second floor of the Salle de la Chapelle to discover some sixty works that allow us to delve into the ins and outs of this creation. [Read more]
Henry Cros, Sculpteur et Dessinateur exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, photos
Henry Cros, 1840-1907 exhibition: discover the work of the visionary sculptor, ceramist, glassmaker and draughtsman at the Musée des Arts décoratifs in Paris, from March 6 to May 26, 2024. An unprecedented plunge into 19th-century art. From wax modelling to the invention of pâte de verre sculpture, we plunge into the artist's evolution through time, discovering works never before shown. [Read more]
UGC Ciné Cité Les Halles: the biggest movie theater in Paris
With 37 rooms and forty movies played, UGC Ciné Cité Les Halles is the biggest movie theater in the heart of Paris, and the biggest movie theater when it comes to rooms in France. [Read more]
Urban Pulse Uprising: French and Korean street dance meet at the Théâtre du Châtelet
Sponsored - The Korean Cultural Center welcomes two crack breaking teams for an unprecedented encounter: the French Pockemon Crew and the Koreans from 1MILLION, a famous dance studio founded in Seoul and renowned for its performances on social networks. On the program: a friendly battle in the presence of a DJ at the Théâtre du Châtelet! [Read more]
A night at the Louvre: stroll and intimate concert with Birds on a wire
Come and spend two special nights at the Louvre with Rosemary Standley and Dom La Nena, aka Birds on a wire. On Monday May 13 and Tuesday May 14, 2024, the two artists are offering two exclusive musical evenings at the famous Paris museum to coincide with the "Revoir Van Eyck. La Vierge du chancelier Rolin" exhibition. [Read more]
CINÉ K7: rediscover cult films from the VHS era on Sunday evenings at UGC des Halles
Nostalgic for the years when VHS still existed? Every Sunday evening from March 24 to June 16, 2024, UGC Ciné Cité Les Halles invites you to watch 11 cult films again on the big screen, with masterclasses also on the program. [Read more]
Paris Sainte-Chapelle Opera Festival 2024: opera in a historic monument
This spring, lyrical music returns to the capital for the second edition of the Paris Sainte Chapelle Opera festival. From Thursday, March 28 to Monday, May 1, 2024. In the sumptuous setting of the Sainte-Chapelle, this musical event invites the biggest names in opera to take to the stage! [Read more]
Mystery Game: a thrilling, immersive investigation at the Conciergerie
Strange phenomena have been observed at the Conciergerie... Ghost hunters, it's up to you! Come and investigate in the most gothic of atmospheres, with the Conciergerie Mystery Game. An adventure that plunges you into the monument's dark dungeons... [Read more]
Eternelle Notre-Dame: our verdict on the immersive historical experience in virtual reality
Notre-Dame de Paris as you've never seen it before: discover the immersive virtual reality experience "Eternelle Notre-Dame", an astonishing show that plunges you into the heart of history. First offered at La Défense, it is now also available on the cathedral's forecourt. [Read more]
Samaritaine Paris: the historic store's shopping and dining areas and events
La Samaritaine reopened its doors in 2021 after 16 years of renovation. Discover its shopping, beauty and restaurant areas. You'll love strolling around, enjoying the tea rooms and discovering the majestic staircase and window displays. [Read more]
Breaking battle between Korea and France at the Théâtre du Châtelet
On May 2, 2024, the Théâtre du Châtelet will host a friendly breaking battle between France and Korea, during a great evening of dance, where choreography workshops will also be on the program! [Read more]
Run to the Louvre: sports tours with cardio, yoga and dancehall in the museum
In April and May, the Musée du Louvre invites you to an unusual visit, early in the morning, before the monument opens. On the program: exercise your muscles as you wander through the sculpture collection! [Read more]
Mind Runs: free sessions combining sport and well-being to stay healthy
Paris, bouge ton esprit is a program launched in the capital to encourage Parisians to take part in sports, to look after their bodies as well as their mental health. Every Thursday, take part in workshops to get you started! [Read more]
Les p'tits fauteuils, children's shows at the Théâtre du Châtelet to see in 2023-2024
Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, from September 2023 to June 2024, Les P'tits fauteuils will offer one show a month, always on a Sunday, for the whole family to enjoy. Concerts, plays, storytelling... your children will finally have the opportunity to come to the theater like grown-ups, with shows adapted to their needs. [Read more]
Stop the thief of the Orangery Museum: investigate with your family at the museum!
The Musée de l'Orangerie is easy to visit with the whole family: not only do children enjoy the young visitors' trail, with 15 short stories in the permanent collections, but families can now solve a real investigation on audioguide, with the brand new Musée de l'Orangerie game! [Read more]
Le Dernier Bar Avant la Fin du Monde : geek and pop culture immersion in the heart of Paris
Discover Le Dernier Bar Avant la Fin du Monde, a unique place in Paris where fans of pop culture, board games and fictional universes meet. Dive into this unusual space offering cultural events, eclectic decoration and a cocktail and restaurant menu that reflects its inspirations. [Read more]
Discover all these great addresses on the map below!
What to do in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Ideas for outings and good addresses
Located right in the historic heart of the capital, the 1st arrondissement of Paris brings together some of the finest jewels of the City of Light. Between the Louvre Museum, the banks of the Seine, Place Vendôme, the Halles district, the Samaritaine and the emblematic Tuileries Gardens bordered by the Rue de Rivoli, it's time to conquer the best addresses and superb ideas for outings in this sublime district of Paris. [Read more]
The 4th arrondissement, often referred to as the Marais, is one of the capital's hippest spots! Here, you'll find yourself in the historic Jewish quarter, the stronghold of the LGBTQIA+ community and the temple of fashion lovers. We take you on a tour of the best places to go out in this festive, multicultural district! [Read more]
It's a great way to get out and about!
What to do in Paris's 4th arrondissement? Ideas for outings and good addresses
