Top 50 Most Famous Monuments of Paris

Embarking on a journey through the heart of Paris and its surrounding regions is akin to leafing through the pages of a grand, living history book. Each street echoes tales of yesteryear, and every monument is a testament to the city’s timeless allure. Having called this city my home for many years, I’ve had the exquisite privilege of witnessing and genuinely experiencing the very soul of Paris. From the majestic sweep of the Seine to the quaint, cobbled alleyways that whisper secrets of the past, my sojourns through Paris have been more than mere sightseeing—they’ve been a deep, personal dialogue with the city itself. In this blog post, I invite you to join me as we explore the ‘Top 50 most famous Monuments of Paris’.

This is not just a list; it’s a tapestry of stories, a collection of personal vignettes that weave together Paris’s grandeur, intimacy, and indomitable spirit. Each monument we’ll visit is a chapter of history, a piece of art, and a slice of my own journey. So, as we embark on this expedition, prepare to see Paris through my eyes – the eyes of someone who has not just lived in but truly savoured every moment in this magnificent city. Welcome to my Paris, a city as grand as its monuments and as intimate as its hidden courtyards.

What are the most famous monuments of Paris, France?

We often take for granted that all our readers should be familiar with the iconic monuments in Paris. As I toured with visitors from the Americas, the UK, India and Australia, I discovered this was not always the case. Of course, everyone knows the Eiffel Tower, but not all our clients can recognise the Sacré-Cœur or Notre Dame. Moreover, some had trouble distinguishing the dome of the Invalides from that of the Panthéon… I hope this little list of the most famous monuments of Paris will help some of you to discover the French capital. Please let us know your favourite famous monuments of Paris by commenting below; we’d love to hear from you!

Bonjour students!

And if you are a student researching the most famous monuments of Paris, a big welcome! You’re in the right place! Pick the info you need to feed your essay, and don’t forget to click on internal links to guide you to more information about the monument. And if you’d like to experience our French moments, I invite you to subscribe to our newsletter!

There is more!

Want to know more about France outside of Paris? Check out this post on The Travel Scribes, which describes no less than 21 fantastic landmarks in France!

1. Palais du Luxembourg

[6th  arrondissement]

This is one of my favourite sites in Paris. The Luxembourg Palace, surrounded by its beautiful gardens, was built in 1617. It owes its name to the Duke of Piney-Luxembourg, landlord of a domain later acquired by Maria de Medici, widow of the King of France, Henri IV. The Italian-born Queen wished to create a residence to remind her of the Pitti Palace and establish gardens evoking those of Boboli in Florence.

Furthermore, architect Salomon de la Brosse has been entrusted with the palace’s construction. It now houses the French Senate, the upper house of Parliament. The palace opens onto a beautiful park, actually one of my favourites in Paris. I love coming here in Spring and Autumn. If you have kids, it also has a brilliant play area.

• Visit our page on the Luxembourg Garden.
• Visit the official website of the French Senate.

2. Centre Pompidou

[4th  arrondissement]

The Pompidou Centre in the district of Beaubourg is one of France’s most visited museums.

Near the busy shopping precinct of Les Halles, the Pompidou Centre was designed with high-tech architecture. With its colour-coded pipes and ducts, the design of the modern art museum has been the source of much controversy since its construction.

However, inaugurated in 1977, some see it as an eyesore, while others praise its architectural audacity. Honestly, I don’t know what to think of it, so I much prefer to climb to the top floor to enjoy the panoramic views over the roofs of Paris, which also has a famous restaurant.

>> Get your Tickets for Pompidou Centre: Priority Entrance! <<

• Visit our page on the Pompidou Centre.
• Visit the official website of the Pompidou Centre.
• Book a private tour of the Centre Pompidou in Paris

⚠️ The museum will undergo a significant revamp in the coming years and will be closed during the renovation works.

3. Les Invalides

[7th  arrondissement]

This is a place I’m much more familiar with as I used to work as a French teacher in a nearby language school.

The grand complex of Les Invalides on the Left Bank is easily recognisable by its magnificent golden dome, which reaches 107 metres high. Louis XIV initially built it to house the homeless and wounded veterans of the King’s army.

Today, the Hôtel des Invalides is famous for housing the tomb of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

Finally, the Hôtel des Invalides also hosts three museums: the Army Museum, the Order of the Liberation Museum, and the Relief Map Museum.

>> Get your Tickets for Les Invalides: the Army Museum [Priority Entrance], Napoleon’s tomb, and see war memorabilia! <<

• Visit our page on the Hôtel des Invalides.
• Visit the official website of the Hôtel des Invalides.

4. Opéra Garnier

[9th  arrondissement]

Charles Garnier built the opulent Paris Opera House from 1861 to 1875 during the reign of Napoleon III. It is part of Baron Haussmann’s significant reconstruction of Paris during the Second Empire.

The auditorium seats nearly 2,000 people and features a grand chandelier and a fine ceiling painting by Marc Chagall. Therefore, you must visit the opera house’s interior, including the stunning grand staircase. I was mind-blown when I first discovered the interior!

You can pay to look around or have a guided tour at certain times of the day. It’s just mind-blowing! You can sometimes get last-minute tickets for operas and ballets, but it is best to book in advance, which you can do online.

>> Get your Tickets for Opera Garnier: Self-guided visit! <<

• Visit our page on the Opéra Garnier.
• Visit the official website of the Opéra Garnier.

5. Panthéon

[5th  arrondissement]

Situated in the Latin Quarter, the Panthéon stands at the top of the Sainte-Geneviève hill. A massive collonaded dome tops the neo-classical white monument.

Originally a church, the Panthéon became a necropolis for France’s most outstanding citizens and a famous national monument.

I recommend you climb the dome of the Panthéon to see the whole of Paris, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre-Dame and Montmartre. I did this on a perfect sunny morning in May; the view was unforgettable!

>> Get your Tickets for the Panthéon: Priority entrance to meet France’s famous citizens! <<

• Visit our page on the Panthéon.
• Visit the official website of the Panthéon.

6. Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre

[18th  arrondissement]

Visible from many parts of Paris, the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur stands like a whipped-cream church atop the hill of Montmartre. With its Romanesque-Byzantine style, the church resembles the Taj Mahal in India more than the Gothic cathedral of Notre Dame!

The Sacré-Cœur was built between 1875 and 1914 by architect Paul Abadie and houses France’s giant bell, La Savoyarde, weighing 18 tonnes.

I have often climbed to the top of the dome for its breathtaking view, especially at sunset!

Finally, I recommend visiting the church and the neighbouring streets of Montmartre early in the morning to avoid the masses of tourists. Make sure you also head to Place du Tertre, where you can have your portrait painted and soak up the atmosphere.

• Visit our page on the Sacré Cœur.
• Visit the official website of the Sacré-Cœur.

7. Notre-Dame Cathedral

[4th  arrondissement]

⚠️ April 15. 2019 – A fire broke out at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris and spread rapidly across the building. During this catastrophic blaze, the spire and roofs collapsed. Reconstruction work is in progress, and we hope the cathedral will be restored by December 2024 at the earliest. At the beginning of January 2024, the wooden framework and the spire designed by Viollet-le-Duc were restored to their original condition.

I particularly liked visiting Notre Dame at Christmas to admire the monumental Nativity Scene.

Before the great fire of April 2019, if you climbed up the 380 stairs to the South Tower, you’d meet the many chimaeras and gargoyles that watched over the city of Paris day and night.

• Visit our page on Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Visit the official website of Notre Dame.
• Get your online Ticket for the Eternal Notre Dame immersive experience in Paris.

8. Palais du Louvre

[1st arrondissement]

It is said that the Louvre is the world’s largest museum. Whether true or not, it ranks as one of Europe’s most majestic palaces.

Originally, this was the former residence of the Kings of France. Today, the Louvre Museum displays over 38,000 pieces of art. Don’t miss visiting the remains of the medieval foundations on the lower ground floor.

Some of the most famous are Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and Delacroix’s painting Liberty Leading the People…

Finally, the Louvre and its glass pyramid open onto the Tuileries Gardens at the starting point of the Historical Axis. With places like this available to visit, it is no surprise that France has been named one of the top 25 holiday destinations of 2021.

>> Get your Fast-Track Tickets for the Louvre: Skip The Line and meet Mona Lisa! <<

• Visit our page on the Louvre.
• Visit the official website of the Louvre.

9. Arc de Triomphe

[8th  arrondissement]

The Arc de Triomphe is a triumphal arch at the top of the prestigious Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

It was raised at the centre of Place de l’Étoile (or Place du Général Charles de Gaulle) from where 12 avenues radiate. In fact, the Arc de Triomphe was built in honour of Napoleon’s French Imperial army.

You can admire it at the Place de la Concorde or the Esplanade de la Défense.

>> Get your Tickets for Arc de Triomphe: Skip The Line + Rooftop Access <<

• Visit our page on the Arc de Triomphe.
• Visit the official website of the Arc de Triomphe.

10. Eiffel Tower

[7th arrondissement]

Among the famous monuments of Paris, La Tour Eiffel is undoubtedly the most popular. The “dame de fer” (Iron Lady) is known worldwide.

But did you know that the world-famous metallic tower was built for the Paris International Exhibition in 1889 for the centenary of the French Revolution? Then at the time of its inauguration, it was the world’s tallest monument.

More than 7 million visitors each year!

Nowadays, it welcomes more than 7 million visitors annually, and it is estimated that more than 250 million people have visited the tower since its completion. In fact, the Eiffel Tower is the most visited paid-entrance monument in the world.

>> Get your Tickets for the Eiffel Tower: Guided Visit + Access to the Top! <<

• Visit our page on the Eiffel Tower.
• Enrol in our new course: the secrets of the Eiffel Tower.
• Visit the official website of the Eiffel Tower.

More photos of the Eiffel Tower

Where to stay when visiting Paris?

There’s a vast choice of accommodations in Paris, from basic hotels to luxury palaces and comfy holiday rental apartments. Check it out by clicking on this affiliate link or navigate through the following map to give you an idea:

Booking.com

11. Palais-Royal

[1st arrondissement]

A former royal palace turned public space, Palais-Royal features beautiful gardens, historic arcades, and the renowned Comédie-Française theatre, offering a tranquil escape in the city’s heart.

Learn more about this monument…

12. Colonne Vendôme

[1st arrondissement]

Standing tall in the Place Vendôme, the Colonne Vendôme is a monumental column adorned with intricate bas-reliefs, commemorating Napoleon’s military victories and showcasing exquisite craftsmanship.

Learn more about this monument…

13. Conciergerie

[1st arrondissement]

Once a medieval palace turned prison, the Conciergerie offers a glimpse into Paris’ dark history, where notable figures, including Marie Antoinette, were held before their executions during the French Revolution.

Learn more about this monument…

14. Sainte-Chapelle

[1st arrondissement]

A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, Sainte-Chapelle enchants visitors with its stunning stained glass windows, depicting biblical stories and creating an ethereal atmosphere.

Learn more about this monument…

15. Paris City Hall

[4th arrondissement]

Located in the heart of Paris, the Paris City Hall, or Hôtel de Ville, is a striking example of Renaissance architecture and serves as the administrative centre for the city, hosting cultural events and exhibitions.

Learn more about this monument…

16. Val-de-Grâce

[5th arrondissement]

This former royal abbey turned military hospital showcases exquisite Baroque architecture and houses the Church of Val-de-Grâce, known for its impressive dome and ornate interior.

17. Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church

[6th arrondissement]

Situated in the vibrant Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood, this Romanesque abbey church is one of the oldest in Paris and is renowned for its tranquil ambience and historical significance.

Learn more about this monument…

18. Saint-Sulpice Church

[6th arrondissement]

One of the largest churches in Paris, Saint-Sulpice Church is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture, with its impressive façade and iconic organ played by renowned composers.

19. Institut de France

[6th arrondissement]

Overlooking the Seine River, the Institut de France is an esteemed institution dedicated to promoting literature, arts, and sciences, housed in an elegant neoclassical building.

20. Orsay Museum

[7th arrondissement]

Housed in a former railway station, the Orsay Museum is home to an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces showcasing the revolutionary art movements of the 19th and early 20th centuries.

21. Palais Bourbon

[7th arrondissement]

Serving as the seat of the French National Assembly, the Palais Bourbon is an impressive neoclassical building that houses the country’s legislative power, reflecting the importance of democracy.

Learn more about this monument…

22. Grand Palais

[8th arrondissement]

A magnificent Belle Époque building, the Grand Palais hosts prestigious exhibitions, art fairs, and events, showcasing a blend of architectural grandeur and cultural significance.

Learn more about this monument…

23. Petit Palais

[8th arrondissement]

Located across from the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais is a beautiful museum housing an extensive collection of fine art, ranging from antiquity to the early 20th century, within its stunning Belle Époque building.

Learn more about this monument…

24. La Madeleine Church

[8th arrondissement]

Inspired by ancient Greek temples, La Madeleine Church is a neoclassical masterpiece known for its imposing Corinthian columns and richly adorned interior, offering a unique architectural experience.

Learn more about this monument…

25. Elysée Palace

[8th arrondissement]

The official residence of the President of France, the Elysée Palace is an elegant mansion showcasing French neoclassical style and serving as a symbol of political power.

Learn more about this monument…

26. July Column

[11th arrondissement]

Located in the Place de la Bastille, the July Column commemorates the July Revolution of 1830 and symbolises the fight for freedom and democratic ideals.

Learn more about this monument…

27. Bastille Opera

[12th arrondissement]

Learn more about this monument…

28. Bibliothèque Nationale de France

[13th arrondissement]

The National Library of France, located in the François-Mitterrand district, is a vast modern library complex housing a vast collection of books, manuscripts, and cultural treasures.

29. Montparnasse Tower

[15th arrondissement]

Offering panoramic views of Paris, the Montparnasse Tower is a prominent skyscraper that provides a bird’s-eye view of the city’s iconic landmarks, making it a popular attraction for visitors.

Learn more about this monument…

30. Grande Arche de la Défense

[La Défense]

Located in the La Défense business district, the Grande Arche is a modern architectural marvel, forming a monumental arch-shaped building as a gateway to the city, reflecting Paris’ contemporary spirit and innovation.

Learn more about this monument…

31. Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel

[1st arrondissement]

Standing proudly near the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel is a triumphal arch commemorating Napoleon’s military victories. Smaller than its famous counterpart on the Champs-Élysées, it boasts intricate sculptures and bas-reliefs depicting historical battles and figures.

Learn more about this monument…

32. Canopé of Les Halles

[1st arrondissement]

The Canopé of Les Halles, with its innovative, undulating glass roof, is a modern architectural marvel in the heart of Paris. It serves as a protective cover for the Forum des Halles, a bustling shopping and entertainment complex.

Learn more about this monument…

33. Bourse du Commerce et d’industrie

[1st arrondissement]

This circular building, once a commodities exchange, is a splendid example of neoclassical architecture. Its frescoed dome and robust columns make it a striking feature in Paris’s urban landscape.

34. Palais Brongniart (Bourse)

[2nd arrondissement]

The Palais Brongniart, formerly the stock exchange, exudes grandeur with its Corinthian columns and majestic façade. This historic building symbolises the financial history of Paris.

35. Eglise Saint-Eustache

[1st arrondissement]

Renowned for its Gothic and Renaissance architecture, the Saint-Eustache Church stands near Les Halles. It boasts impressive dimensions, stunning stained glass, and a rich history intertwined with the city’s merchant class.

36. Tour de Jean-Sans-Peur

[2nd arrondissement]

This medieval tower, a remnant of the Hotel de Bourgogne, is a rare example of civil architecture from the early 15th century in Paris. It offers an intriguing glimpse into the turbulent history of medieval France.

37. Tour Saint-Jacques

[4th arrondissement]

A solitary Gothic tower in the 4th arrondissement, Tour Saint-Jacques is all that remains of a 16th-century church. It serves as a prominent landmark and a testament to the city’s medieval past.

Learn more about this monument…

38. Obélisque de Louxor (Place de la Concorde)

[8th arrondissement]

The Luxor Obelisk, a 3,300-year-old Egyptian monument, stands majestically in Place de la Concorde. It is adorned with hieroglyphics exalting the reign of the pharaoh Ramses II. It is, therefore, the oldest of all monuments of Paris.

39. Hôtel de Soubise

[4th arrondissement]

This grand hôtel particulier, now housing part of the National Archives, showcases exquisite Rococo architecture. Its opulent interiors and ornate facade are a window into the lavish lifestyle of the French nobility.

40. Hôtel de Sens

[4th arrondissement]

One of the few remaining medieval residences in Paris, the Hôtel de Sens combines Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements. Its history as a residence for the archbishops of Sens adds a layer of historical significance.

Learn more about this monument…

41. Hôtel de Cluny

[5th arrondissement]

The Musée de Cluny, the former townhouse of the abbots of Cluny, is a remarkable example of medieval architecture. It houses a rich collection of medieval art, including the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries.

42. La Sorbonne

[5th arrondissement]

The Sorbonne, the historic university founded in the 13th century, is an emblem of French intellectual life. Its striking architecture and grand lecture halls have been a learning centre for centuries.

43. Arènes de Lutèce

[5th arrondissement]

Hidden away in the Latin Quarter, the Arènes de Lutèce are among Paris’s most significant remains of the Gallo-Roman era. These ancient ruins once hosted gladiatorial combats and are a testament to the city’s ancient history.

Learn more about this monument…

44. Ecole Militaire

[7th arrondissement]

A prestigious military academy established in the 18th century, the Ecole Militaire is an imposing complex with classical French architecture. It is famously associated with Napoleon Bonaparte, who was a student here. It closes the perspective of the Champ-de-Mars.

45. Gare de Lyon (and bell tower)

[12th arrondissement]

Known for its remarkable clock tower, the Gare de Lyon is one of Paris’s busiest train stations. Its architecture is a harmonious blend of classic and modern styles, making it a significant transport hub and architectural landmark.

46. Observatoire de Paris

[14th arrondissement]

As the national astronomical observatory of France, this institution has contributed significantly to the field of astronomy. Its classical architecture is aesthetically pleasing and historically significant in the scientific community.

47. Palais de Chaillot

[16th arrondissement]

Overlooking the Trocadéro Gardens, the Palais de Chaillot is celebrated for its majestic twin pavilions and sweeping views of the Eiffel Tower. It hosts several museums and is a prime example of 20th-century architecture.

48. Moulin Rouge

[18th arrondissement]

The iconic Moulin-Rouge, a symbol of the Belle Époque, is famous worldwide for its cabaret shows. Its red windmill on the roof makes it an unmistakable landmark in the Montmartre district.

Learn more about this monument…

49. Maison de Radio-France

[16th arrondissement]
This circular building is home to France’s public radio broadcaster. Its modernist architecture represents the post-war era and is a significant element in the city’s media landscape.

50. Nouveau Palais de Justice

[17th arrondissement]

The New Palace of Justice, with its modern and sleek design, represents the evolution of Parisian architecture into the 21st century. It symbolises transparency and modernity in the French judicial system.
 
 

Last note about the famous monuments of Paris

As we end our journey through the remarkable and famous monuments of Paris, we are left in awe of the city’s rich history, architectural marvels, and cultural treasures.

From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the grandeur of the Louvre Museum, each monument has a story to tell, reflecting the spirit, creativity, and resilience of Parisians throughout the ages.

Whether it’s the Gothic splendour of Notre Dame Cathedral, the majestic Palais-Royal, or the modern elegance of La Grande Arche, these monuments stand as testaments to human ingenuity and the enduring legacy of Paris as a global centre of art, culture, and history.

As you explore the streets of this enchanting city, may these monuments inspire you to delve deeper into the captivating tales and hidden gems that await around every corner. Paris remains a city of dreams, where the past and present intertwine to create an unforgettable experience for all wandering its streets.

Thank you for reading so far, and if you liked the article, please share it on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) or Pinterest!