The 1st arrondissement of Paris pulls you into the historic heart of the city, where eras collide. On the Île de la Cité, straddling the 1st and 4th arrondissements, follow the traces of the ancient Lutèce and discover the Palais de Justice, the Saint Lutèce, the Sainte-Chapelle with its thousand stained-glass windows, and the Conciergerie, a remnant of Medieval Paris where Marie-Antoinette was imprisoned during the French Revolution.
Not far from there sits Place Dauphine, a true haven of relaxation for Parisians—whether for a one-day visit or a lifetime love affair with the city, especially on sunny days. As you stroll along the banks of the Seine, you’ll reach the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Garden, while on the other side of Rue de Rivoli, the Gardens of the Palais-Royal enchant with every stroll and open the way to some of the capital’s finest covered passages, including the Galerie Vivienne, which connects to the 2nd arrondissement.
At the crossroads of the faubourg Saint-Honoré and the Opéra district, Place Vendôme stands as the very embodiment of French luxury. On the Halles side lies one of the capital’s oldest neighborhoods, where the Saint-Eustache Church towers over the Forum des Halles shopping center.
The 1st arrondissement of Paris is a true gem, packed with historic treasures that form the beauty of Parisian heritage. Ready to dive into this iconic corner of the City of Light? Here are outing ideas and great places to check out you won’t want to miss!
Paris 1 restaurants: Where to eat in the 1st arrondissement? Our favorite places and top picks
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]
Brunch Paris 1: Where to have brunch in the 1st arrondissement? Our favorite places and top picks
With its iconic museums, historic gardens, and shopping streets, the 1st arrondissement is the heart of Paris. A multitude of elegant or more casual establishments offer perfect brunches for a gourmet break in the city center. [Read more]
Lieux sucrés Paris 1 : pastry shops, bakeries, cafés, tearooms, and chocolate shops in the 1st arrondissement.
Pastry shops, chocolatiers, ice-cream parlors and tea rooms hide between the Louvre, the Tuileries and the Halles. Here are the sweet spots in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. [Read more]
Bar Paris 1: Where to have a drink in the 1st arrondissement? Our favorite spots and recommendations
Between the Louvre, the Palais Royal, and the Tuileries, Paris's 1st arrondissement offers an elegant selection of cocktail, wine, and beer bars where you can enjoy a drink in the historic heart of the capital. [Read more]
Terraces Paris 1: Our best spots to pause for a break in the 1st arrondissement
From the Louvre to the Palais-Royal, via the Tuileries and Les Halles, the 1st arrondissement offers some of Paris's most iconic backdrops. Discover the terraces where you can pause and soak in the heart of the capital. [Read more]
Hotel Paris 1: Where to stay in the 1st arrondissement? Hotels, hostels, and other accommodations
Looking for a place to stay in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Here are the addresses of hotels, youth hostels and accommodation in the district. [Read more]
What to visit in the 1st arrondissement of Paris? Museums, monuments and exhibitions
Want to discover the treasures of Paris's 1st arrondissement? We'll take you on a tour of the museums, monuments and exhibitions to be discovered in the heart of the capital. From the iconic Musée du Louvre to more confidential spots, here's what there is to visit in Paris's 1st arrondissement. [Read more]
What to see in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Current shows, concerts & plays!
Looking for a show to see in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Concerts, theater, one-man shows and other artistic performances, here's what's on at the moment in the beautiful venues of this Parisian district. [Read more]
Exhibitions to see in Paris' 1st arrondissement
Would you like to take a stroll through the heart of Paris, in the 1st arrondissement? To enhance your outings in central Paris, take a look at the exhibitions organized in this arrondissement. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: explore the Conciergerie, the former prison of the French Revolution
On the occasion of Heritage Days, the Conciergerie invites you to free admission as it opens its doors on Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026. What’s on the schedule? Self-guided tours of this former Parisian prison, steeped in history. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: visit Sainte-Chapelle, the monument famed for its thousand stained-glass windows
Take part in the 2026 Heritage Days by stepping into the magnificent Sainte-Chapelle, the capital's architectural jewel built in the 13th century. On Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, come discover more about this hidden gem, built to safeguard the Crown of Thorns of Christ. [Read more]
Rare tours by the Ministry of Culture of the Palais-Royal for the 2026 Heritage Days in Paris.
We know the Palais-Royal gardens well, one of Paris’s most iconic spots. Its palace, though, is less accessible to the public—and for a good reason: it houses the Ministry of Culture. Good news: for Heritage Days 2026, you’ll be able to visit the institution through an exceptional open day. Here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2026 in Paris: at the heart of a Place Vendôme jeweller’s
On the occasion of the 43rd edition of Heritage Days in Paris, a jewelry house invites you to discover its historic boutique-workshop located on Place Vendôme. Guided tours will be offered there for this weekend of September 19–20, 2026. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2026 : step inside the Conseil d'État at the Palais-Royal
On the occasion of the European Heritage Days, September 19 and 20, 2026, the Conseil d'État will, exceptionally, open the doors to its headquarters housed in the Palais-Royal in Paris. A rare opportunity to discover this historic institution, its architectural heritage, and the workings behind France's highest administrative court. Reservations open on September 1, 2026. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: an exceptional chance to visit the Constitutional Council at the Palais-Royal
On 19 and 20 September 2026, the European Heritage Days offer an exceptional chance to discover the Constitutional Council, housed in the Palais-Royal in Paris. A rare opportunity to step inside this Republic institution, explore its historic salons, and gain a deeper understanding of its role at the heart of French democracy. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Paris Court of Auditors: weekend program
The Heritage Days are back in a big way: join us for the weekend of September 19–20, 2026, in Paris and the Île-de-France region. It’s a chance to uncover the secrets of the capital’s iconic institutions, including the Cour des Comptes (France’s Court of Audit), which is unveiling an impressive lineup of tours and activities. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 in Paris: the Ministry of Justice opens its doors to the public
On the occasion of Heritage Days, the Ministry of Justice opens the doors of the Hôtel de Bourvallais to us on Saturday, 19 September and Sunday, 20 September 2026. During a rare, self-guided visit, you can discover the office of the Keeper of the Seals. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026: exclusive tours of the Bank of France in Paris
On the occasion of the 2026 Heritage Days, the Bank of France — housed in the Hôtel de Toulouse in the 1st arrondissement of Paris — will exceptionally open its doors on Saturday, September 19. It’s a chance to tour its gilded gallery and grand salons, and to explore the bank’s history and activities through a playful, engaging visit. [Read more]
Journées du Patrimoine 2026 : discover the Louvre Museum and its art studios in Paris
Event for Heritage Days 2026! On Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20, 2026, the Louvre Museum’s art studios in Paris will exceptionally open their doors to you (registration required). A chance to learn more about their unique craft. It’s also an opportunity to discover the architecture of the famous Parisian museum! Note that bookings are moving fast—grab your tickets without delay. [Read more]
Heritage Days 2026 at the Paris Court of Appeal: the schedule of visits
Take advantage of Heritage Days to visit the Court of Appeal of Paris, housed in the Palais de Justice. Mark September 19, 2026 for a stroll into the heart of France’s judiciary. Book your spot now! [Read more]
Les Petits Bateaux du Jardin des Tuileries, playful sailboats to sail on the Grand Bassin
In the center of the Jardin des Tuileries, around the large octagonal basin (on the Concorde side), funny sailboats are generously pushed by children from all around the basin. A historic Tuileries tradition, the Petits Bateaux are one of the Garden's flagship family attractions. [Read more]
What to do with children at the Musée des Arts Décos Family visits and activities
Fancy a trip to the museum with the whole family? Then head for Paris' Musée des Arts Décoratifs, with its rich collections to discover on guided tours or creative workshops. [Read more]
What to do with children at the Louvre? Activities and visits for the whole family
It's the most visited museum in the world, and we're lucky enough to be able to count it among Paris's cultural highlights: the Musée du Louvre. For families, the program is particularly diverse: we take stock before your visit. [Read more]
Jazz&goûter: musical and gourmet afternoons for the whole family at Sunset Sunside
Every Sunday is a date for families and children at Sunset Sunside: yes, because every Sunday is Jazz&goûter time! [Read more]
Guided tours and workshops to discover the Bourse de Commerce's collections with the whole family
The Bourse de Commerce welcomes young and old alike to its exhibition space with a variety of activities. The program includes workshops, guided tours for young audiences and games to help families discover the works in the collection. [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]
This Parisian palace on Rue de Rivoli unveils its Head Spa inspired by Japanese rituals.
Valmont Spa at Le Meurice unveils its Head Spa, a Japanese-inspired ritual entirely focused on the scalp. The treatment combines massages, aromatherapy, lithotherapy and hot-water affusion, available in 60- or 90-minute sessions at the Parisian palace on Rue de Rivoli. [Read more]
This hidden Paris bar invites you to play chess until 2 a.m.
Blitz Society opens a hidden chess bar above the Pizi restaurant in Paris’s 1st arrondissement, accessible every evening from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. Between games, cocktails and a hushed ambiance, this discreet new venue reimagines the speakeasy bar vibe at the heart of the capital. [Read more]
Sant Roch: the new 400m² wellness sanctuary in Paris featuring a XXL sauna and chilling plunge pools
In Paris, wellness is set to shift gears starting March 2, 2026, with the debut of SANT ROCH, located opposite the Tuileries Garden. This new sanctuary offers XXL saunas, icy plunges, and sensory rituals, creating a transformative journey that invigorates both body and mind. Conceived by Jules and Chloé Bouscatel, SANT ROCH presents a unique immersive experience centered around contrast therapy. [Read more]
Augustinus Bader Spa at the Hotel Costes: Customized Treatments and an Exclusive Pool Lounge in Paris
In the heart of the 1st arrondissement, Costes unveils the Augustinus Bader spa: a 1,000 square meter oasis of luxury, wellness, and bespoke treatments where scientific innovation meets elegant design to redefine the art of high-end spa experiences. From smoky oak to statuary marble, every detail enhances the ambiance, while facial treatments, body therapies, and manicure-pedicures provide a perfectly indulgent escape... in true Parisian style. [Read more]
Travel through the centuries at the Louvre: we tested the virtual reality experience
Step back in time at the foot of the Louvre thanks to a unique virtual reality tour. An immersive journey, combining historical reconstructions, guided tours and sensory experiences, to (re)discover the Louvre like never before. We've got a promo code for you! [Read more]
Un Crime presque Parfait: Cluedo-style escape game at Lock Academy
A murder, some clues and an hour to solve the case... Dive into "Un Crime presque Parfait", Lock Academy's immersive and sobritish escape game, in the heart of Paris, where the investigation becomes a real life-size Cluedo. [Read more]
Lock Academy Paris: Professor Lock's investigative escape game at Châtelet - Les Halles
If you're a fan of escape games in Paris and a detective at heart, Lock Academy, located between Châtelet and Les Halles, has a challenge for you! Behind this detective school lie mysteries to unravel, captivating enigmas and immersive missions to solve as a team. Immerse yourself in the world of Professor Lock and try to become the best investigator in the capital! [Read more]
Très Cher Lock: the escape game that will have you investigating at Lock Academy
At Lock Academy, in the heart of Paris, the Très Cher Lock escape game plunges players into the disappearance of Professor Lock's daughter. An immersive investigation for teams all year round. Ready to put your brains to the test? [Read more]
L'Atlantide: the legendary escape game at Majestic Escape Game
If you like mysteries and the cinema, Majestic Escape Game has a solution for you, with Atlantide, one of its rooms. The objective: find the Atlanteans' hidden treasure in one of the entrances to the mythical lost city. [Read more]
Arbre à sens: a spa that takes you on a journey through world massages, next to the Palais-Royal
The Arbre à Sens spa, near the Palais-Royal, invites you to another continent for a sensory immersion in the heart of traditions and massages from Asia, India and the Maghreb. [Read more]
Outcore: lagree courses on micro reformer in the heart of Paris
Calling all fans of low-impact sports! Nestled in the center of Paris, the Outcore gym offers micro lagree classes for beginners and advanced alike. Mind you, just because the machines are smaller doesn't mean the class is any less challenging... [Read more]
The Suzanne Berlioux pool in the heart of Les Halles
Nestled in the heart of the Forum des Halles, the Suzanne Berlioux swimming pool is particularly popular with Parisians, easily accessible thanks to its central location. [Read more]
Pilate Reformer at YUJ: an intimate group class with quality coaching
Having trouble with group classes of more than 20 people? At YUJ, Pilate Reformer is practiced with a maximum of 5 people, in an intimate setting. The coach can follow each participant's movements and advise him or her. [Read more]
Mission Galactique: the space escape game at Majestic, our test
Calling all escape game and space adventure fans... Head for Majestic Escape Game, located in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, to discover its "Mission Galactique" room. Blending scenarios from all the best science-fiction films and series (Star Wars, Star Trek, Dune, Guardians of the Galaxy to name but a few...), this adventure should appeal to all lovers of stellar travel and space opera... A room voted best new feature 2024 at the Escape Game Awards! Ready to save the galaxy? [Read more]
Carousel, trampoline, playground... 3 things to do with children in the Tuileries Gardens
Planning a trip to the Tuileries Gardens? With the whole family, even young children, it's the ideal place for a stroll or, better still, some really fun activities. [Read more]
Discover the locations of all these great spots by clicking the map at the bottom of the article
What to do in the Châtelet-Les Halles and Beaubourg district: Ideas for outings and top picks
Strolling through the Châtelet–Les Halles and Beaubourg districts, located in Paris’s 1st and 4th arrondissements? Follow the guide to discover these central neighborhoods from A to Z! [Read more]
Are you scouting for great spots in the Louvre area, along the Rue de Rivoli and the Palais-Royal in Paris’s 1st arrondissement? You’re in luck—here they are! [Read more]
Want to discover the Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme neighborhood in the very chic 1st arrondissement? Set out to conquer the best places in the area! [Read more]
You're strolling near Notre-Dame, the Île de la Cité, and Île Saint-Louis, halfway between the 1st and 4th arrondissements of Paris? Follow the guide to uncover the district's history and snag some prime local tips in the area! [Read more]
What to do in the Châtelet-Les Halles and Beaubourg district: Ideas for outings and top picks
What to do in the Louvre-Rivoli, Palais-Royal, and Tuileries area: outing ideas and top spots
Things to do in the Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme neighborhood: Ideas for outings and great places to visit
What to do in the Notre-Dame neighborhood, Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis: outing ideas and addresses
