Beyond the Louvre: Charting the Essential Landmarks of Paris
Original photo by Anthony Tan
Dreaming of your first trip to Paris? Imagine strolling along the Seine, the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the distance, without the once-in-a-lifetime crowds of the Olympics. The year 2025 is the perfect time to go. The city is fresh from hosting the world, leaving behind polished landmarks and upgraded transport, but with a more relaxed, authentic atmosphere. This is your chance to see the iconic sights—from the reopened Notre Dame Cathedral to the artistic alleys of Montmartre—with more space to breathe and soak it all in.
The Unmissable Icons: Your 2026 Checklist
Paris is a city of landmarks, each telling a part of its grand story. Here’s how to tackle the essentials for your 2026 trip.
Photo by David Solce
1. The Eiffel Tower
No trip is complete without seeing the "Iron Lady." Whether you ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views or have a picnic on the Champ de Mars below, its presence is magical.
Pro-Tip for 2026: Booking your tickets online months in advance is non-negotiable. Choose a time slot just before sunset to see the city transition from day to night, culminating in the tower's spectacular light show.
2. The Louvre Museum
Home to the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and thousands of other masterpieces, the Louvre is the world's largest art museum. It can be overwhelming, so a little planning goes a long way.
Photo by Daniele D'Andreti
Pro-Tip for 2026: Don't try to see everything. Pick one or two wings (we recommend the Denon wing for Italian masterpieces and the Sully wing for Egyptian antiquities) and immerse yourself. Pre-booked, timed-entry tickets are essential to guarantee admission and skip the lines. Note that the general admission price may be slightly higher than previous years.
3. The Arc de Triomphe
Standing proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, this monumental arch honors those who fought and died for France. Climbing to the top offers one of the best views in Paris, looking down all twelve avenues radiating from its center.
Photo by Jarod Barton
4. Notre Dame Cathedral: A Symbol of Resilience
The moment the world has been waiting for has passed, and the Cathedral has fully reopened! In 2026, you can walk inside this restored masterpiece.
Photo by Pierre Blaché
Major 2026 Update: The cathedral's famous towers, with their gargoyles and incredible city views, have fully reopened to the public as of late 2025. You can now make the historic climb! Additionally, the installation of new contemporary stained glass windows is scheduled to be complete in 2026, offering a fresh, modern element to the ancient structure.
Beyond the Monuments: Essential Neighborhoods
To truly feel the pulse of Paris, you must wander its streets.
Montmartre: Perched on a hill, this neighborhood feels like a village within the city. Visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica for sunrise, watch artists at work in the Place du Tertre, and get lost in its cobblestone lanes. It's the romantic, artistic Paris of your dreams.
Jardin du Luxembourg: For a dose of tranquility, head to the Luxembourg Gardens. This is where Parisians come to relax. You can sail model boats on the Grand Bassin, stroll through immaculate flowerbeds, or simply pull up one of the iconic green chairs and watch the world go by. It’s the perfect place to recharge after a morning of sightseeing.
🏆 Extra for 2026: Major Events
In 2026, Paris continues its reign as a center for culture and sports:
📅 European Swimming Championships: Scheduled for 2026, this event will be hosted at the new Olympic Aquatic Center. Check dates if you are a sports fan!
📅 Major Concerts: Keep an eye on the schedule for the Stade de France, which often hosts international music acts like David Guetta and The Weeknd in the summer months.
📅 Festivals and Exhibitions: Look for events like the Hyper Week-end Festival at Maison de la Radio, and major exhibitions at the Philharmonie de Paris, which often run into 2026.
Paris in 2026 is reaching its full, spectacular potential, offering a unique blend of timeless charm and modern polish with its iconic monuments fully restored and vibrant. From the newly completed projects to its unforgettable neighborhoods, the City of Light is waiting to dazzle you. Planning a trip to a destination this rich in history and culture can be complex, but you don't have to do it alone. Ready to see these incredible landmarks in person? Talk to one of our expert agents at Go Beyond Travel to plan your dream Parisian vacation today!
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📦 Key Takeaways
Post-Olympics Opportunity: 2025 offers a unique travel time with fewer crowds and city-wide enhancements following the Olympics.
Notre Dame Reopening: The newly reopened Notre Dame Cathedral is a must-see, with its famous towers scheduled to become accessible from September 2025.
Advance Booking: Booking tickets online well in advance for major attractions (Eiffel Tower, Louvre) is essential for your itinerary.
Beyond Landmarks: Exploring neighborhoods like artistic Montmartre and the relaxing Jardin du Luxembourg is key to the Parisian experience.
Expert Advice: Consulting a travel expert can help you navigate post-event changes and create a seamless first-time visit.
