Choose from 812 Fun Things to Do in Riviera Maya & The Yucatan
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Parc Zoologique et Chateau de Thoiry
Parc Zoologique et Chateau is a 370 acre zoo, castle, and botanical garden in the town of Thoiry, France. The biggest section of the zoo covers 240 acres and has a road running through it for five miles. It is the African Reserve section, and visitors drive through in their own car while the animals roam freely. Some of the animals you can see here include horses, bears, bison, wildebeest, greater and lesser kudu, camels, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, and elephants. In the walk-through section of the zoo, you can see tigers, leopards, gibbons, red pandas, lemurs, macaques, cheetahs, wolves, pygmy goats, and Komodo dragons.
The 16th century chateau is still home to the Counts of La Panouse, but some sections are open to the public with guides dressed in costume. The castle was designed as a solar calendar with the garden walkways as the hands. On the summer and winter solstices, the sun rises and sets in the castle windows as if it is coming out of the castle itself. The castle is surrounded by 95 acres of landscaped gardens and trees.
Practical Info
Parc Zoologique et Chateau de Thoiry is located 33 miles west of Paris and can be reached using route N12. The zoo and safari park are open 10am to 5pm in the winter and 10am to 6pm in the summer. The castle is open 11am to 12:30pm and 1:30pm to 6pm in the winter and for the whole day from 11am to 7pm in the summer. Admission is 30 euros.
Address: Rue du Pavillon de Montreuil, Thoiry, France
Admission: 30 euros
From $ 34
Palace of Versailles
Formerly a (comparatively) humble hunting lodge, the Palace of Versailles (Chateau de Versailles) is the extravagant creation of Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King. Embellished to epitomize ultimate royal decadence, the inequality of which tindered the French Revolution, Versailles Palace is a feast for the eyes — its 700 rooms are replete with frescoed ceilings and carvings, while the Versailles Gardens (Jardins de Versailles) brim with geometrically designed walkways and fountains. No visit to Paris, or France for that matter, is complete without experiencing the grandeur of Versailles.
The Basics
Visiting every one of the palace's 700 rooms would take days, so a Versailles guided tour that encapsulates Chateau de Versailles' highlights is indisputably the best option. In the Hall of Mirrors, gold-framed windows let in heavenly light, while priceless antique furniture decorates the King's Grand Chambers. The Royal Chapel's seemingly interminable columns are divine to behold, and in the Gardens of Versailles, the colossal Grand Canal dominates while the Musical Fountains dance to classical music at regular intervals.
The Basics
Visiting every one of the palace's 700 rooms would take days, so a Versailles guided tour that encapsulates Chateau de Versailles' highlights is indisputably the best option. In the Hall of Mirrors, gold-framed windows let in heavenly light, while priceless antique furniture decorates the King's Grand Chambers. The Royal Chapel's seemingly interminable columns are divine to behold, and in the Gardens of Versailles, the colossal Grand Canal dominates while the Musical Fountains dance to classical music at regular intervals.
Lines can be long, often exceeding two hours, so purchase a skip-the-line ticket to spend less time waiting and more time exploring the Versailles Palace and Gardens. Various combo tours include skip-the-line entry at both the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre museum and a Versailles Palace tour, allowing travelers to maximize their time in Paris. History buffs should consider a private tour for tailored insight into the residence's history, particularly Marie Antoinette's exile in the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, while active travelers can tour Versailles by bike to cover more ground in less time. On a full-day tour, fans of Impressionist art can combine Versailles with a visit to Giverny, the village that inspired the water lily paintings of Claude Monet.
How To Get to the Palace of Versailles
The palace is located in the small township of Versailles, 13 miles (21 km) outside of Paris, and is easy to reach by train. Catch RER C from Paris to Versailles Rive Gauche station, only a 10-minute walk away from the palace. You can also catch the SNCF train from Paris Montparnasse station to Versailles Chantiers or from Paris Saint Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite station.
- The palace is incredibly popular — book a skip-the-line ticket to save time.
- The majority of tours from Paris include hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Select a tour that combines round-trip transport with an audio guide for a self-guided experience.
The palace is located in the small township of Versailles, 13 miles (21 km) outside of Paris, and is easy to reach by train. Catch RER C from Paris to Versailles Rive Gauche station, only a 10-minute walk away from the palace. You can also catch the SNCF train from Paris Montparnasse station to Versailles Chantiers or from Paris Saint Lazare to Versailles Rive Droite station.
When to Get There
At night, when the palace lights are illuminated and the sun has set, the gardens' Musical Fountains are at their most magical. Visit the Versailles Gardens on a Saturday evening between June 17 and September 16 to see a particularly special fountain performance crowned with a fireworks display.
Address: Place d'Armes, Versailles, Ile-de-France 78000, France
Hours: Tues–Sun 9am – 6:30pm in summer; 9am – 5:30pm in winter. Gardens and park open daily. Closed Jan 1, Apr 5, May 1, May 24, Nov 1, and Dec 25.
Admission: €18 for all-access pass (includes audio tour)
From $ 33
Palawan Beach
Sentosa Island is home to nearly 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) of white sandy beaches, Siloso, Palawan and Tanjong Beaches. Of the three, Palawan Beach is most geared toward families. This long stretch of sand features a fountain playground, shower facilities, a hawker center selling inexpensive food, themed islets for picnicking and a suspension bridge linking the beach with the Southernmost Point of Continental Asia.
An amphitheater at Palawan Beach hosts the Animal and Bird Encounters, a series of reptile and bird displays included in the price of Sentosa admission.
Practical Info
Lifeguards supervise Palawan Beach, making it a good swimming option for families with young children.
Address: Sentosa Island 099981, Singapore
From $ 30
Paris-Story
A unique museum devoted to telling 2,000 years of Paris’ history through multimedia displays and interactive exhibitions, the Paris-Story offers a fascinating and fun introduction to the French capital.
The Paris-Story features three main exhibition areas, starting with a unique film of the city by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, including magnificent aerial views and exclusive behind-the-scenes footage of landmarks like the Sacré Coeur, Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. There’s also the Paris-Miniature exhibit, where visitors can explore a 3D-interactive model of Paris, and the Paris-Experience, with videos and quizzes about the city.
Practical Info
The Paris-Story is located on rue Scribe, close to the Palais Garnier. The site is open daily from 10am to 6pm. Adult admission costs €11.
Address: 11bis Rue Scribe, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Hours: Daily 10am-6pm
Admission: €11
From $ 11
Parc des Buttes Chaumont
One of Paris' most picturesque picnic spots, the tree-lined Parc des Buttes Chaumont was commissioned by Napoleon III back in 1867, adding a welcome splash of greenery to the bleary residential streets of Paris' 19th arrondissement. The park’s 25 hectares rise and fall over a series of hills, pocked with hidden caves, vibrant flower displays and gurgling streams. One of the largest parks in the city, Parc des Buttes Chaumont offers around 5 km of walking and cycling tracks, blazing a trail between attractions like the Chinese and English-style gardens and an atmospheric grotto housing a 20-meter waterfall. The majestic Temple of Sybil (Belvedere Sybil), a Greco-Roman homage to the Temple of the Sibyl in Tivoli, is the striking centerpiece of the park, perched on a 30-meter grassy pedestal in the center of the park’s lake. Visitors can visit the island via a 63-meter long suspension bridge, from where the views stretch over the park and its surroundings.
Those spending an afternoon in the park, will find plenty to keep them amused -- the space hosts three restaurants, two Guignol theaters where traditional marionette shows are held, a number of well-equipped children’s playgrounds and children’s pony rides throughout the summer months. And if you ever tire of all the natural scenery, don’t worry -- the park even has free wifi zones.
Those spending an afternoon in the park, will find plenty to keep them amused -- the space hosts three restaurants, two Guignol theaters where traditional marionette shows are held, a number of well-equipped children’s playgrounds and children’s pony rides throughout the summer months. And if you ever tire of all the natural scenery, don’t worry -- the park even has free wifi zones.
Practical Info
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is located in the northeast section of Paris in the 19th arrondissement.
Address: 1 Rue Botzaris, Paris 75019, France
From $ 37
Parque 93
Parque 93 is more than a grassy square in the center of Bogotá. It is one of the centerpieces of the city with great restaurants, exciting nightlife and outdoor activities. Many locals come here for a walk, for a sporty outing and a picnic with friends or decide to attend one of the numerous events. Not only are there are regular festivals and art installations taking place under the shady trees, but the park is often frequented by Bogotá’s wealthy. Thus, if you plan on a night out in Parque 93, be prepared to be surrounded by the local jet set crowd.
Head to Bardot Bar, which is popular with the Colombian models and actors, or pop in at the Bogota Beer Company, where you can get some of the city’s best brews. At El Salto Del Angel you can grab both a steak and prove your salsa skills on the dance floor. Classic Colombian parties can be found at Kukaramakara and El Sitio, which are a favorite among the local crowd and feature local bands.
Practical Info
Parque 93 can be found between Calles 93A and 93B and Carreras 11A and 13, just north of Zona Rosa. The closest Transmilenio stop is Virrey, which is about 1.5 kilometers away, but once there or if you feel like switching venues, it is easiest to get around the neighborhood on foot.
Address: Carrera 13 entre 93A y 93B, Bogotá, Columbia, Colombia
From $ 30
Palais Bourbon
Built in 1722 as a private mansion for the duchesse de Bourbon, a legitimized daughter of Louis XIV, the Palais Bourbon has served as the meeting place for the Assemblée Nationale (the lower house of the French parliament) since 1798 when it was called the Council of Five Hundred.
Today, the government building is easily recognizable by the colonnaded facade commissioned by Napoleon to resemble the portico of the Madeleine across the Seine. On display within the Palais Bourbon are cupolas painted by the French Romantic artist Eugene Delacroix, as well as several works by contemporary artists.
By reservation only, visitors can observe a live session of the National Assembly or participate in guided tours focused on the building’s art, architecture and the workings of the French parliament.
Practical Info
If you don’t have time to reserve a visit ahead of time, plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour or session you want to attend in case there are extra spots available.
Address: 33 Quai d'Orsay, Paris, France
From $ 81
Palais du Luxembourg
A highlight of the sixth arrondissement, the Palais du Luxembourg was built as a residence for former Queen of France Marie de’ Medici in 1625. Though the palace has lost none of its luster in the ensuing centuries, its purpose has changed: the once-regal address now houses the Senate, the upper house of the French parliament.
The Basics
The Palais du Luxembourg has taken on numerous guises throughout its history. Originally created as a royal palace, it served as a prison during the French Revolution, housed senators appointed by Napoleon, and was occupied during World War II. Today, it houses the French Senate; as a result, you’ll often hear the building referred as “the Sénat.” Built in the Italianate style, and inspired by Florence’s Pitti Palace, the Palais du Luxembourg is also flanked by the Jardin du Luxembourg, a manicured public park that’s among the most popular in the city.
Generally, visiting hours are limited to days when the Senate is not in session (typically Mondays and Fridays) and group tours must receive advanced approval to visit. Otherwise, walking tours through the Jardin du Luxembourg are an excellent way to get acquainted with the site and admire the palace’s impressive exterior.
Things to Know Before You Go
- For organized group tours of the palace, the Senate recommends requesting a reservation roughly three months in advance.
- The Senate’s debates, typically held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, are open to the public, but visitors must obtain an invitation from a senator.
- The Jardin du Luxembourg, modeled on Florence’s Boboli Gardens, contains numerous fountains, statues, greenhouses, and other attractions.
How to Get There
Take Métro lines 4 or 10 to the Odéon, Mabillon, or Saint-Sulpice stations, which are all located just a short stroll away. The RER B additionally stops at the Luxembourg station. Alternatively, buses 58, 84, 89, and 96 stop nearby. The site can also be accessed on foot, by Velib’, or by car.
When to Get There
During the third weekend of September, the Senate opens its doors to visitors during European Heritage Days. Otherwise, while the Palais du Luxembourg can be tricky for visitors to access, the Jardin du Luxembourg appeals to flâneurs year round.
The Musée du Luxembourg
Located just steps from the Palais du Luxembourg, the eponymous museum is also a worthy stop. Originally located within the palace walls, it moved to its current location (in the palace’s orangery) in the 19th century. Today, it hosts a changing roster of temporary exhibitions.
Address: 15 rue de Vaugirard, Paris 75291, France
From $ 45
Paris Aquarium (Aquarium de Paris)
Also known as Cinéaqua, the Paris Aquarium is one of the three aquariums in the city and is technically the oldest aquarium in the world, having opened its doors in 1867. The aquarium’s décor is largely inspired by French writer Jules Vernes’ novel, Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, a theme that truly sets the tone for discovery.
It now houses 10,000 different animal and invertebrates of 500 species (including rays, unicorn fish, angelfish, hermit crabs, puffer fish and fairy basslet) as well as 9,000 plant specimens and 600 corals, located in 43 basins spread over 3500 square meters! Marine wildlife comes from all corners of the world, from the Atlantic Ocean to Polynesia and New Caledonia.
The big-ticket attraction is undoubtedly the shark basin, which contains 3 million liters of water and 38 sharks of seven different species. It is, in fact, the largest artificial basin in France. Most of the attractions are kids-oriented, and the aquarium offers several educational animations, workshops and shows throughout the day.
Practical Info
The Paris Aquarium is located at Trocadéro, right across the Eiffel Tower. It is easily accessible by metro, with stops Trocadéro and Iéna close by. Entry costs €20.50 per adult and €13 per children for a day-time visit and € 27.90 per adult and €22.90 per child for a night-time visit. The aquarium is open daily (except July 14th) from 10AM and 7PM.
Address: 5 Avenue Albert de Mun, Paris, France
Hours: Daily 10am-7pm
Admission: €13-€27.90
From $ 24
Palais de l'Isle
Welcoming visitors to Annecy’s Old Town, the 12th-century Palais de l’Isle (also known as Palais de I’lle) sits right in the middle of Canal du Thiou on a prow-shaped islet between colorful canal-side streets. Over the years, the landmark building has served as a courthouse, mint, prison, military barrack, and ducal residence.
The Basics
Annecy’s atmospheric Old Town (La Vieille Ville) is best explored on a walking tour, combining a visit to the Palais de l’Isle with other Annecy attractions such as the Château d’Annecy, Pont des Amours, and Annecy Cathedral. The historic landmark can also be admired on a cruise around Lake Annecy (Lac d’Annecy), visited on a half-day tour from nearby Geneva, or seen on a full-day excursion including a sightseeing tour of Geneva and an optional Geneva Lake cruise.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palais de l’Isle is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or architecture.
- Combination tickets are available for the Palais de l’Isle and Château d’Annecy.
- This destination is not wheelchair accessible.
- Some cobblestone streets may be uneven; wear comfortable shoes and watch your step.
How to Get There
The Palais de l’Isle is located along the Passage de l'Île in the center of Annecy’s pedestrianized Old Town. It can be reached on foot from anywhere in the city center. Although public transit does not run through the area, there is a parking lot at 10 Place Georges Volland from where it’s a short walk to the palais.
When to Get There
The Palais de l’Isle is open year-round, although entry times vary seasonally and it is closed on Tuesdays. The narrow streets of Old Town can get busy in July and August, so the best photo opportunities are in the early morning or in the evening after the day-trippers have left.
A Tour of the Palais d’Isle
As well as being Annecy’s most photographed landmark, the Palais de l’Isle serves as a museum with permanent exhibits on the history and architecture of the region, as well as a rotating display of local art. Other areas of the historic landmark that are open to the public include the Banches and Coin Mint wings, and the Tower Lodge.
Address: Passage de l’Île, Annecy, Rhône-Alpes 74000, France
Hours: Daily
Admission: Adult: €3,80; Child: €2
From $ 1,312
Palm Beach
Aruba’s Palm Beach hosts many of the Caribbean island’s luxe high-rise hotels, which is no surprise, as these lovely two miles (3.2 kilometers) of sand are prime real estate. The beach hosts sunbathing vacationers, refreshment stands, and water sports booths. Two piers lined with restaurants and shops offer entertainment and some much needed shade.
The Basics
Northwest of Aruba’s capital, Oranjestad, Palm Beach is a hub for activities day and night. The long stretch of sand leaves plenty of room for relaxing, and the blue Caribbean waters are calm enough for snorkeling and swimming just offshore. Parasailing, scuba diving, and horseback riding are other popular daytime activities.
Aruba tours that circle the island often include a stop at Palm Beach, as well as other island highlights. There are also guided expeditions via bus, Jeep, ATV, or party bus. Boat tours and Aruba catamaran sails pass Palm Beach for views and photo ops before proceeding to a sunset viewing location, the famous Natural Pool, or the Antilla shipwreck scuttled just off Arashi Beach. A typical Aruba sightseeing tour stops at Palm Beach in combination with other landmarks such as Arikok National Park, Baby Beach, Eagle Beach, the California Lighthouse, or the Natural Bridge.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palm Beach is one of the more crowded beaches on Aruba. If you’re after peace and quiet, a farther-flung beach (such as Arashi Beach or Malmok Beach) may be more your speed.
- Palm Beach is chock full of amenities, which makes it great for families with kids who frequently need snacks, activities, or bathroom breaks.
- Many Aruba island activities leave from the Palm Beach area, making it a great jumping-off point for those who aren’t content to just lounge on the beach all day.
How to Get There
Palm Beach is located about six miles (9.8 kilometers) northwest of Oranjestad and the Queen Beatrix International Airport. As Palm Beach is a busy area, parking is not easy. The Arubus has several stops along Palm Beach on J.E. Irausquin Boulevard.
When to Get There
Since Palm Beach is lined with high-rise hotels featuring clubs and restaurants, the nighttime activities are almost as plentiful as those for daytime. Aruba sees great weather almost year-round. Prices are highest in winter for northerners escaping the snow, so April through August is the best time to find a deal.
Off-Road Tours
Palm Beach is a popular starting point for off-road and ATV tours that explore Aruba’s interior. Choose from self-drive or guide-driven off-road adventures that get you off the beaten path for a view of the real, natural Aruba—far from the high-rise hotels.
Address: Aruba
From $ 40
Panth eon
The Panthéon, which dates back to 1790, is one of Paris’ most striking monuments. A fine example of early neoclassical architecture, the mausoleum houses the remains of some of France's most revered artists and writers, among them Rousseau, Voltaire, Zola, and Dumas.
The Basics
Situated at the heart of Paris’ atmospheric Latin Quarter, the Panthéon makes a popular photo stop on walking or bike tours of the Left Bank. Independent visitors can save time by pre-booking skip-the-line tickets; additionally, entrance is free to Paris Museum Pass holders.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Visitors are required to undergo security checks and large bags and suitcases are not permitted inside.
- Audio guides are available in 11 different languages.
- The Panthéon interiors are not wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
The Paris Panthéon is located at the Place du Panthéon in Paris’ Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissement. You can easily walk to the Panthéon from nearby attractions such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Luxembourg Gardens; alternatively, the closest Metro stop is Maubert-Mutualité (Line 10).
When to Get There
The Panthéon is open daily year round, but it can get busy in the peak summer months. Opt for a mid-week or early-morning visit to escape the crowds, or visit after dark when the grand monument is dramatically illuminated.
Exploring the Panthéon
Built as church dedicated to Sainte-Geneviève, the original Panthéon was the work of architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot and deconsecrated in the 19th century. Today, visitors can admire its Corinthian columns and magnificent dome, then head inside to explore the crypt, see Foucault's Pendulum, and climb the 206 steps to the colonnade, which offers views of landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe.
Address: Place du Panthéon, Paris 75005, France
Hours: Open daily 10am - 6pm
Closed: January 1, May 1 and December 25
Admission: Adult: 9 €
From $ 10
Padang
Located on the left bank of the Singapore River, the Padang (Malay for field or open ground) represents the very essence of colonial Singapore. It was selected by the founder of modern Singapore, Sir Raffles, as a recreation area when he laid out the plans for the city and is surrounded by some striking colonial architecture.
A long stretch of flat green land, the Padang was the hub of colonial life, used primarily for sporting events and recreational activities. In 1834, the Europeans began hosting a New Year Regatta at the Padang, which soon expanded into an annual sports day.
Today the Padang is the site of the Singapore Cricket Club and the Singapore Recreation Club. It’s a place where the locals still gather to walk and socialise together and where sporting and social events take place. It has also become a key attraction for visitors to Singapore, who come to marvel at the grandiose colonial architecture in the area, including St. Andrew's Cathedral, City Hall, and the Supreme Court Building.
Practical Info
The Padang in Singapore is situated between St. Andrew Road and Connaught Drive. The nearest transport link is the City Hall MRT station, which is approximately a 4-minute walk away.
Address: Connaught Dr, Singapore
From $ 27
Paradis Latin
Just steps from the Boulevard Saint-Germain in the heart of the Latin Quarter, the Paradis Latin is one of Paris’ liveliest and most history-saturated cabaret venues. Originally built in 1803 and restored by Gustave Eiffel in 1887, the cabaret still hosts its revue show—which blends can-can dancing, music, acrobatics, and more—today.
The Basics
The famed Paradis Latin has a history full of twists, turns, and surprising characters—Napoleon Bonaparte, for one, who ordered the construction of the Latin Theatre (a predecessor to the Paradis Latin) in 1803. Though it was damaged in a fire during the Franco-Prussian War and forced to close, the theater was revamped and renamed under Gustave Eiffel, who decked it out with metal fixtures and a glass cupola in time for the 1889 World’s Fair. With additional periods of closure and renovation behind it, the thriving cabaret hosts its signature show, Paradis à la Folie, most evenings.
The Paradis Latin is an in-demand destination that attracts crowds, so book your tickets in advance. Choose from options that include dinner or Champagne and macarons on the side; upgrade to VIP seating, which affords the best views in the house.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Paradis à la Folie, the current show, has been performed since 2008 and includes 15 different rousing scenes.
- A smart-casual dress code is recommended; while jeans and sneakers are permitted, sportswear and beachwear are not.
- The Paradis Latin is accessible for visitors with limited mobility.
How to Get There
Access the Paradis Latin via the Métro; the 10 line stops at Cardinal Lemoine, and the 7 and 10 lines also stop at the nearby Jussieu. You can also take the 47, 63, 67, 86, and 87 bus lines, which stop nearby. Given its convenient Latin Quarter location, the theater is also accessible by car, on foot, or by Vélib’.
When to Get There
The Paradis Latin is open from Wednesday–Monday, and holds regular evening performances (as well as lunchtime, matinee shows on select dates). It also hosts special revue shows for select holidays, like Valentine’s Day and New Year’s Eve.
French Can-can Workshop
Impressed by the Paradis Latin’s dancers, and curious about the can-can? The theater hosts a monthly workshop that will teach you the basics of this classic dance style.
Address: 28, rue du Cardinal Lemoine, Paris 75005, France
From $ 87
Palm Groves Garden (Gibbons Garden)
Palm Groves Garden is a privately owned garden in Bermuda. Luckily for travelers to Bermuda, the Gibbons family that owns the garden open it up to visitors. Palm Groves Garden stands out due to its meticulously manicured grounds and lovely lily pond.
Within the grounds of Palm Groves Garden, you’ll find coconut trees, palm trees and more foliage that all add up together to create an exotic tropical escape from the hustle and bustle of Bermuda’s cities. The lily pond is a fun aspect of the garden for visitors to see as it has plants within it in the shape of Bermuda as seen on a map. Both children and adults will also enjoy checking out the limestone huts on the property and visiting the aviary, which is home to a number of parrots.
Practical Info
Palm Groves Garden is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is located in Devonshire Parish on the southern side of the island off of the main South Road, and you can easily get there via car or another form of public transportation. Another hassle-free way of seeing Palm Groves Garden is on a sightseeing day tour, which takes you around the island to show you the top sites with an expert Bermuda guide.
Address: 38 South Road, Devonshire Parish, Bermuda
Hours: Mon-Thurs 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
From $ 56
Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes)
The Paris Catacombs (Les Catacombes) date back to the 1700s, when the ossuary was formed from an old underground quarry. Over the years, more and more remains were brought here from overcrowded cemeteries to make room for the city's development, up until 1860. For those with an interest, it’s a fascinating look at a former burial practice.
The Basics
A Catacombs tour takes you 135 feet (20 meters) below ground to explore this subterranean world of skeletal remains. You’ll cover just under one mile (1.5 km), which takes about 45 minutes. The Catacombs of Paris aren’t usually part of standard city tours, so they’re often experienced on a standalone tour. Book a skip-the-line ticket to bypass the queue, or make your sightseeing even easier by selecting combo admission to both the Catacombs and the Eiffel Tower.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Buy a ticket in advance to avoid waiting in a long line; visitors are limited to 200 at a time.
- You may want to bring a layer, as the temperature is 57° F (14° C) in the Catacombs.
- There is no cloakroom, so bring only what you want to carry with you.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll go down 130 steps and up 83 steps to return to street level.
- The Catacombs tour is not for everyone—you will be underground and see human bones, so it's not recommended for those with sensitive disposition or young children. And unfortunately, the site is not accessible for those with limited mobility or recommended for those with heart or respiratory problems.
How to Get There
The Catacombs are located in Paris' 14th arrondissement. The Denfert-Rochereau metro and RER station puts you right by the entrance on Avenue du Colonel Henri Rol-Tanguy.
When to Get There
The Catacombs are open every day except Mondays and some bank holidays. The experience is the same by day and in the evening, as you’re underground and the lighting is artificial. For fewer crowds, book a morning visit.
Other Things to Do in the 14th Arrondissement
This section of Paris is not the city’s most visited, as it’s away from the Seine near the southern edge of the city limits. If you’re making the trip to visit the Catacombs, take advantage of being in the 14th to check out other attractions such as the 56th-floor observation deck of Tour Montparnasse or Montparnasse Cemetery, where writers and intellectuals such as Charles Baudelaire, Jean-Paul Sartre, and Simone de Beauvoir are buried.
Address: 1 Avenue du Colonel Henri Roi-Tanguy, Paris, Ile-de-France 75014, France
Admission: € 8-12 for adults
From $ 29
Palais de Chaillot
The Palais de Chaillot is located on the Place du Trocadéro in Paris’ 16th neighborhood (arrondissement). Because it is just across the river Seine from the Eiffel Tower, the terrace of the Palais de Chaillot provides one of the city’s best views of the tower — it is a great place to snap photos of the famous landmark. Visitors can easily spend an entire day visiting the Palais de Chaillot, the Eiffel Tower, and walking or taking a cruise along the Seine. The Palais’ surrounding gardens (Jardins du Trocadéro) are ten hectares surrounding Paris’ largest fountain, which is well worth viewing at night while lit up.
The Palais de Chaillot was originally built for the 1937 World’s Fair/Universal Expo, and today houses the national theater (Théâtre National de Chaillot) and a number of different museums: the Musée de la Marine (Naval Museum), the Musée de l'Homme (The Museum of Man), and a museum of architecture (Cité de l'architecture et du patrimoine). As if this weren’t enough to keep an inquisitive visitor occupied, the Palais de Chaillot also has an aquarium (called Cinéaqua), accessible from the Trocadero gardens. The aquarium is home to 10,000 fish and invertebrates, a shark tunnel, and its own movie theater.
Practical Info
No admission fee for the Palais de Chaillot and the Jardins du Trocadéro, admission fees and opening hours for each of the museums at the Palais vary.
Address: 1 Place du Trocadéro et du 11 Novembre, Paris 75016, France
Hours: Opening hours for each of the museums vary.
From $ 39
Parc de la Villette
Holding the title of Paris’ largest park at around 25 hectares, Parc de la Villette is made up of a series of themed gardens, known as ‘prairies’, set around the banks of the l'Ourq Canal. There’s more on offer than just an idyllic setting, though – the park’s interactive play areas, cycle paths and event spaces, along with one of the city’s most popular museums offer plenty of options for a family day out.
The park is characterized by its modernist sculptures and installations, including around 35 fire-engine red follies dotted along the canal banks, a striking sight against the futuristic silhouettes of the park’s buildings. Three concert halls reside in the park – the Zenith Concert Hall and the Cite de la Musique, both important music halls, and the striking Grand Hall, a former livestock showground transformed by architects Bernard Reichen and Philippe Robert into a popular cultural center and performance arena. The City of Science and Industry, Europe’s largest science museum, is also on-site, fronted by the iconic Omnimax cinema, La Géode - a building constructed inside a giant silver ball. Film and music fans can even enjoy alfresco entertainment during the summer months, when the nearby Prairie du Triangle is transformed into an open-air cinema, and a number of music concerts and festivals are held in the park grounds.
Even the gardens themselves continue the postmodernist theme, designed by renowned architect Bernard Tschumi and including a Dragon garden, presided over by a towering ‘Dragon slide’, a firm favorite among visiting children; a Mirror Garden, where mirrored panels have been erected among the trees to dramatic effect and a pretty Bamboo Garden where shaded paths trace a scenic walk through the woodlands.
The park is characterized by its modernist sculptures and installations, including around 35 fire-engine red follies dotted along the canal banks, a striking sight against the futuristic silhouettes of the park’s buildings. Three concert halls reside in the park – the Zenith Concert Hall and the Cite de la Musique, both important music halls, and the striking Grand Hall, a former livestock showground transformed by architects Bernard Reichen and Philippe Robert into a popular cultural center and performance arena. The City of Science and Industry, Europe’s largest science museum, is also on-site, fronted by the iconic Omnimax cinema, La Géode - a building constructed inside a giant silver ball. Film and music fans can even enjoy alfresco entertainment during the summer months, when the nearby Prairie du Triangle is transformed into an open-air cinema, and a number of music concerts and festivals are held in the park grounds.
Even the gardens themselves continue the postmodernist theme, designed by renowned architect Bernard Tschumi and including a Dragon garden, presided over by a towering ‘Dragon slide’, a firm favorite among visiting children; a Mirror Garden, where mirrored panels have been erected among the trees to dramatic effect and a pretty Bamboo Garden where shaded paths trace a scenic walk through the woodlands.
Address: 211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, Paris 75019, France
From $ 23
Palais de Justice
Located on Île de la Cité, one of the two remaining natural islands in the River Seine, the Palais de Justice is what remains of the former Royal Palace. Situated between the Gothic royal Sainte-Chapelle chapel and the former Conciergerie prison, the Palais de Justice is infamous for its role as a public execution site during the French Revolution.
The Basics
The former Royal Palace is now home to the Paris judicial courts. Since it’s a working judicial building, the building isn’t open for tours, but visitors are free to wander the public halls or just admire the stunning architecture from the outside. Opt for a walking tour the of Île de la Cité to learn more about the history of the Royal Palace and see other famous landmarks like the Conciergerie, Sainte-Chapelle, and the Notre-Dame cathedral.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Palais de Justice is the former royal residence of the French monarchy.
- The site is must-see for French history buffs.
- The Palais de Justice is a working judicial building, so access to the building is limited.
- Purchase admission tickets to other Île de la Cité sights in advance to save time in lines.
How to Get There
The Pont Neuf, Paris’s oldest bridge across the River Seine, provides access to Île de la Cité from the center of Paris. Metro line 4 will take you directly the island, and the Palais de Justice is only a few moments walk from the Cité station.
When to Get There
Attractions along Île de la Cité are some of the most visited in Paris, so start your morning early to avoid the crowds. There really is no bad time to visit Paris, but spring and fall see vastly smaller crowds than mid-summer, and winter can be a delightful time to visit as long as you pack plenty of layers.
Visiting the Conciergerie and Sainte Chapelle
Although tours of the Palais de Justice are unavailable, you can, in fact, tour neighboring La Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle. La Conciergerie is most notable as the principal prison during the French Revolution, when it was used to detain famous revolutionaries like Marie-Antoinette and Robespierre. Admission is required to enter both sights, but a combination ticket will save you money.
Address: 10 Boulevard du Palais, Paris 75001, France
From $ 27
Palais Royal
Located across from the Louvre in the heart of Paris, the Palais-Royal is an architectural highlight known for its scenic gardens and regal heritage. Originally named the Palais-Cardinal—it was built for Cardinal Richelieu in 1633—the palace later housed French royalty until Versailles was completed in 1682.
The Basics
While it’s often overshadowed by the world-famous art museum next door, the Palais-Royal boasts its own cultural legacy, oasis-like gardens, and architectural grandeur. Today, the landmark serves multiple functions; for one, it’s the seat of several government bodies, including the Constitutional Council, the Council of State, and the Ministry of Culture. It also contains La Comédie Française, one of the oldest still-active theaters in the world, the Théâtre du Palais-Royal, another centuries-old theater, and Le Grand Véfour, a Michelin-starred restaurant whose origins date to 1784.
Given its convenient location, the Palais-Royal is a stop on numerous tours, including bike tours, history- and architecture-themed walking tours, and private driving tours of Paris.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The palace complex and its gardens are free to visit.
- Jacques Lemercier, the architect who built the Palais-Royal, also designed the Sorbonne.
- In September, the state rooms at the Palais-Royal are open to visitors as part of the European Heritage Days event.
- The Palais-Royal hosts numerous special events throughout the year, from Easter Egg hunts to Fête de la Musique concerts.
How to Get There
Given its perfectly central location in Paris’ 1st arrondissement, the Palais-Royal couldn’t be simpler to access. Take Métro lines 1 or 7 to the Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre stop, which is just steps away. You can also take the 21, 27, 39, 48, 69, 72, 81, or 95 bus lines. The Palais-Royal is also easily accessed on foot, by car, or by Vélib’ bike.
When to Get There
Between October and March, the Palais-Royal is open daily from 7:30am–8:30pm. From April to May it’s open from 7am–10:15pm; from June to August it’s open from 7am–11pm; and during September it’s open from 7am–9:30pm. Visitors are asked to clear the palace grounds 30 minutes prior to the official closing time.
The Colonnes de Buren
One of the Palais-Royal’s most distinctive (and controversial) elements is an art installation in its inner courtyard (the Cour d’Honneur). Created by artist Daniel Buren in 1985, Les Deux Plateaux (also known as the Colonnes de Buren) consists of numerous black-and-white striped columns.
Address: Place du Palais Royal, Paris 75001, France
From $ 24