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 much more to the district than this! Look up and stroll around to discover the surrounding area, take the many bridges that link theÎle de la Cité andÎle Saint-Louis to the capital's Left and Right banks, pass by the beautiful churches in the area, and don't forget to visit the Sainte-Chapelle to admire its 1113 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 local cafés and restaurants. The two islands facing each other have a lot to offer, so follow the guide!
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]
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]
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]
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]
Ephemeris for August 22 in Paris: The theft of the Mona Lisa from the Louvre Museum
On August 22, 1911, Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa disappeared from the Musée du Louvre, under the noses of the guards. It was a shock. It would be another two years before Mona Lisa's smile could be seen again in sunny Florence. [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]
Did you know? This is the oldest clock in Paris and its fascinating history.
Do you know the oldest public clock in Paris, still in operation? Mounted on 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. This public clock, still in operation today, embodies six centuries of history and impressive mechanics, we tell you. [Read more]
Did you know? This small cannon in the garden of the Palais-Royal was used as a clock in the 18th century.
The capital really is full of little curiosities, not least in the gardens of the Palais-Royal, where a small cannon takes pride of place. Between 1786 and 1911, it was used not as a weapon, but as a clock! Find out how. [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]
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]
What you need to know about the reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris: dates, bookings and new features
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. From reservations to the transformation of the forecourt and the proposed visitor itineraries, discover all the information you need to prepare your visit to this emblem of Paris, ready to welcome 15 million visitors a year. [Read more]
80th anniversary of the Liberation of Paris: popular ball, swing initiations and concert
2024 celebrates the 80th anniversary of the Liberation of Paris on August 25, 1944. To mark the occasion, Paris is organizing a large-scale free public ball, with a wide range of entertainment on the program. [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]
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]
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]
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.
The Jardin des Tuileries Christmas Market at Paris 2024 returns
The Jardin des Tuileries Christmas Market awaits you from November 16, 2024 to January 1, 2025. It's the perfect opportunity to shop for Christmas gifts, enjoy rides galore and feast at the many stalls and gourmet restaurants on site. [Read more]
Paris: the Ferris Wheel in the Tuileries Gardens is back! Opening times and prices
Moved because of the Olympic Games, the Giant Ferris Wheel is finally returning to its mythical location in the Tuileries Gardens, allowing tourists and Parisians alike to see the City of Light from a little higher up, starting this Friday, October 18, 2024. [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]
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 on Notre-Dame, Ile de la Cité and Ile Saint-Louis, our top addresses
Here you'll find restaurants near Notre-Dame de Paris, Ile de la Cité and Ile Saint-Louis. The best addresses are yours! [Read more]
Hakuba: we tested the exclusive Omakase experience at Cheval Blanc Paris, the Japanese restaurant
Discover Hakuba, the Japanese restaurant nestled in the heart of the prestigious Cheval Blanc Paris. The restaurant offers a unique immersion in the art of Japanese gastronomy, with Omakase menus carefully orchestrated by sushi master Takuya Watanabe, in collaboration with sauce master Arnaud Donckele and pastry chef Maxime Frédéric. A delicate experience that echoes Japanese tradition and the quest for authenticity. [Read more]
Gast, bakery and brunch during the day, bistronomy in the evening
A multi-faceted place, Gast is open non-stop, offering a choice of pastries, brunches or bistronomic toasts, depending on the time of day. [Read more]
Le Tout-Paris at Cheval Blanc Paris
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]
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]
Where to stay in Paris's 1st arrondissement? Hotels, inns and accommodation in the district
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]
Where to sleep in Paris's 4th arrondissement? Hotels, inns and accommodation in the district
Looking for a hotel in Paris' 4th arrondissement? Here are the best addresses for hotels, youth hostels and accommodation in the area. [Read more]
Le Cheval Blanc Paris, the Samaritaine's luxury hotel
It has everything to make you dream: its address, the mythical Samaritaine, then 72 rooms and suites with palatial comfort, several restaurants with panoramic terraces "from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre and from Notre-Dame to the Georges Pompidou Centre" run by chef Arnaud Donckele and pastry chef Maxime Frédéric, but also a Dior Spa Cheval Blanc where happiness awaits you. Shall we take you away? [Read more]
The Musée du fromage in Paris is open, and we want to tell you all about it!
The first Musée du fromage has opened its doors in Paris, in the 4ᵉ arrondissement, since this June 13, 2024. A living museum that lets us discover the great French know-how, the making of different cheeses, the history and the many varieties to be discovered all over France. Did you know that there are almost 300 "origine contrôlée" cheeses? You'll have to stay in this world a little longer - and taste it, of course! [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]
Louis Vuitton: free exhibition of the House's design & art de vivre collections at LV Dream - extensions
Louis Vuitton opens the doors of its new free exhibition, dedicated to design and the art of living, in the continuity of Design Miami.Paris 2024. From October 16 to November 24, head to LV Dream to discover the Maison's Objets Nomades collection, as well as cult pieces from its collaboration with Estúdio Campana, through a unique scenography. [Read more]
Christofle: Une Brillante Histoire, the goldsmith's house's sublime exhibition at MAD Paris
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs is preparing to light up your autumn with the exhibition "Christofle: A Brilliant History", from November 14, 2024 to April 20, 2025. Discover how this legendary house has reinvented the art of goldsmithing since the 1830s, through 1,000 dazzling pieces - from cutlery to jewelry to contemporary art - deployed in a magical immersive scenography. [Read more]
Guillon Lethière, born in Guadeloupe: the Musée du Louvre retrospective exhibition unveiled
The Musée du Louvre honors an unjustly forgotten painter: from November 13, 2024 to February 17, 2025, come and discover the Guillon Lethière, born in Guadeloupe exhibition. [Read more]
Musée du Louvre: a free nocturne on December 6, 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 to all visitors free of charge on the first Friday of each month, after 6pm. Next date to remember: December 6, 2024. [Read more]
La Mode en Modèles: the 1920-1930 photo exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris
On the occasion of Paris Photo, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs unveils the exhibition "La Mode en Modèles. Photographs from the 1920s-1930s", from November 6, 2024 to January 26, 2025. Much more than just fashion clichés, these photographs were formidable weapons against counterfeiting at a time when Haute Couture was booming. [Read more]
L'intime, de la chambre aux réseaux sociaux: the exhibition that questions our secret gardens at MAD
The Musée des Arts Décoratifs invites us into our most personal, intimate spaces, in a major exhibition presented from October 15, 2024 to March 30, 2025. Come and visit "L'intime, de la chambre aux réseaux sociaux". [Read more]
Figures du fou at the Musée du Louvre: a zany exhibition to discover - our photos
Are you crazy? Yes, we are! Everyone's crazy in the Louvre Museum's new exhibition, Figures du Fou: du Moyen-Âge aux Romantiques, on view from October 16, 2024 to February 3, 2025. A plunge into the history of the madman and his representation through the ages. [Read more]
Exhibition event Revoir Watteau at the Musée du Louvre, around the figure of Pierrot - our photos
Following restoration of the work, art lovers are invited to rediscover Antoine Watteau's masterpiece "Le Pierrot, dit Le Gilles" in a new exhibition at the Musée du Louvre, from October 16, 2024 to February 3, 2025. A character who has been the subject of much ink... And a lot of paint! [Read more]
The exhibition Révélation ! Contemporary art from Benin, unveiled at the Conciergerie
La Conciergerie welcomes contemporary artists from Benin, from October 4 2024 to January 5 2025, for an original exhibition entitled "Révélation ! Contemporary art from Benin". Discover the images of this exhibition-event! [Read more]
Théâtre du Châtelet: a historic setting in the heart of Paris
The Théâtre du Chatelet is a historic venue in the heart of Paris, where the art of entertainment transcends the ages. We reveal its history and programming! [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]
Les Misérables: a new production of the musical at the Théâtre du Châtelet
Discover the new French production of Les Misérables at the Théâtre du Châtelet from November 22 to December 31, 2024. This timeless musical has reached 130 million spectators. [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 in Paris. An adventure that plunges you into the monument's dark dungeons... [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]
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]
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? Good places to go and what's on!
Located right in the historic heart of the capital, the 1st arrondissement of Paris is home to some of the finest jewels of the City of Light. Between the Louvre Museum, the banks of the Seine, the Place Vendôme, the Halles district, the Samaritaine and the emblematic Tuileries Gardens bordered by the Rue de Rivoli, it's time to conquer the good addresses and superb ideas for outings that currently await us 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 latest outing ideas and the best addresses in this festive, multicultural district! [Read more]
It's a great ride!
What to do in Paris' 4th arrondissement? Here are the latest addresses and ideas for outings!
