The 7th and 8th arrondissements are among the most famous areas in Paris. They are home to iconic landmarks, elegant streets, and top museums. Located along each bank of the Seine River, these neighborhoods blend history, culture, and luxury. In the 7th arrondissement, on the left bank, you’ll find the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and the Musée d’Orsay. This area is quiet, with grand buildings, charming cafés, and many embassies.
The 8th arrondissement, on the right bank, is more lively. You will find there the Champs-Élysées, stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, one of the world’s most iconic avenues. It also has the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, which host art exhibitions. This article will guide you through the best attractions and cultural highlights to make the most of your visit.
The Eiffel Tower, the most iconic symbol of Paris, has captivated visitors since its construction in 1889 for the World’s Fair. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this 330-meter-tall masterpiece remains a global landmark. It also offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city, together with Tour Montparnasse. I first visited Eiffel Tower as a child, but even now, I find myself returning, especially when friends visit. No matter how many times I see it, watching it sparkle at night—for five magical minutes every hour—never loses its charm.
To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. Booking tickets online in advance helps skip long queues. And for those seeking adventure, climbing 674 steps to the second level is an exciting challenge. Otherwise, the elevators provide an effortless ride to the top, where panoramic observation decks offer unforgettable city views. For a luxurious experience, Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the second floor, serves gourmet cuisine with an incredible skyline backdrop. More casual dining options, like Madame Brasserie, are available, as well as food stalls nearby.
At the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Champ de Mars is a large park where you can relax after your visit. It’s a great place for a picnic, watching street performers, or simply enjoying the view. Both locals and tourists come here throughout the day, making it a lively yet peaceful spot. In spring and summer, the flowers are in full bloom, making the park even more beautiful. I lived near the Champ de Mars until I was five. But to be honest, I don’t remember much from that time!
For those seeking the best photo opportunities, head to Trocadéro, just across the Seine. Its elevated platform provides a stunning, unobstructed view of the tower, especially at sunrise and sunset. Another favorite is Pont de Bir-Hakeim, a bridge famous for its elegant metal arches. Meanwhile, Rue de l’Université offers a more intimate, classic Parisian backdrop, where the tower peeks through charming Haussmann-style buildings.
And, of course, no visit is complete without witnessing the Eiffel Tower’s dazzling light show. Every evening, as soon as the sun sets, the tower illuminates in a golden glow. Then, on the hour, every hour, it sparkles brilliantly for five minutes—an enchanting sight that never fails to impress. My favorite place to take a photo of Eiffel Tower at night is from the left bank. Close to the Pont-Neuf you can take awesome photos of Musée d’Orsay with the sparkling Eiffel Tower in the background. Another option is to take a photo from Pont Mirabeau, with the statue of Liberty in the foreground.
The Hôtel des Invalides is one of Paris’ most significant historical sites. It was built in the 17th century by King Louis XIV as a hospital and retirement home for war veterans. Today, it remains a striking example of classical French architecture and continues to house military institutions. But the complex is best known for its golden dome, a stunning landmark that glistens in the Parisian skyline.
Inside, Napoleon Bonaparte’s Tomb rests beneath the dome in an ornate, circular crypt. The emperor’s remains were moved here in 1840. Now his grand red quartzite sarcophagus sits on a green granite pedestal, surrounded by statues symbolizing his military victories.
For those interested in military history, the Musée de l’Armée within Les Invalides offers an extensive collection of weapons, armor, and exhibits covering French military history from medieval times to World War II. It’s a must-visit for history enthusiasts wanting to better understand France’s past.
The Musée d’Orsay is one of Paris’ most beloved museums, especially for fans of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. Housed in a beautifully restored Beaux-Arts railway station, this museum offers a breathtaking setting to admire masterpieces from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Inside, visitors can marvel at iconic works by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Vincent van Gogh, Edgar Degas, and Édouard Manet. Some of the museum’s most famous paintings include Van Gogh’s “Starry Night Over the Rhône”, and Degas’ “Ballet Rehearsal”. Unlike the Louvre, which spans thousands of years of art history, the Musée d’Orsay provides a more focused and intimate experience.
After exploring the museum, visitors can continue their artistic journey at the nearby Musée de l’Orangerie. This museum is home to Monet’s stunning large-scale “Water Lilies”. Or take a relaxing walk through the Jardin des Tuileries, one of Paris’ most picturesque gardens.
Place de la Concorde is one of Paris’ most impressive and historically significant squares. Located at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées, it has witnessed some of the most dramatic moments in French history. During the French Revolution, this square was the site of the guillotine where King Louis XVI, Queen Marie Antoinette, and thousands of others met their fate.
At the center of the square stands the Luxor Obelisk. This striking 3,300-year-old Egyptian monument was offered to France in the 19th century. Covered in hieroglyphs, it originally stood at the entrance of the Luxor Temple in Egypt. The obelisk is flanked by two magnificent fountains, Fontaine des Mers and Fontaine des Fleuves, inspired by Roman designs.
From Place de la Concorde, a short and scenic walk through the Jardin des Tuileries leads directly to the Louvre Museum. Place de la Concorde is indeed a perfect starting point for exploring Paris’ artistic and historical treasures.
The Grand Palais was built for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. It is now one of Paris’ most prestigious venues for art, culture, and major events. Recognizable by its glass-domed roof and ornate Beaux-Arts façade, the Grand Palais hosts world-class art exhibitions, fashion shows, and major cultural events. It has also served as a venue for sporting events and temporary immersive exhibitions.
Right across the street, the Petit Palais is often overshadowed by its larger counterpart. But it is a true hidden gem. This elegant museum offers free permanent art exhibitions, showcasing works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Courbet. Its charming courtyard café is a perfect spot to relax.
The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is one of the most iconic streets in the world, stretching from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Known for its majestic tree-lined boulevard and vibrant atmosphere, the avenue embodies the elegance and grandeur of Paris. It hosts Bastille Day parades, Tour de France finishes, and New Year’s Eve celebrations, making it an important part of French culture.
For those who love luxury shopping, the Champs-Élysées is home to flagship stores from renowned brands like Louis Vuitton, Cartier, Guerlain, and Dior. High-end fashion and accessories line the boulevard, attracting visitors from around the world. Cafés such as Fouquet’s and Ladurée provide the perfect setting to relax with a coffee or enjoy classic French pastries. Seasonal highlights make the Champs-Élysées even more magical. During the holiday season, the avenue sparkles with festive Christmas lights. And the holiday market near Place de la Concorde creates a charming winter wonderland.
The Arc de Triomphe stands at the center of Place Charles de Gaulle, marking the western end of the Champs-Élysées. Commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, it was built to honor the soldiers who fought and died for France, particularly during the Napoleonic Wars. The monument is engraved with the names of French generals and battles. Since then it has been a powerful symbol of national pride and military history.
Visitors can climb the 284 steps to the top for one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Paris. From here, you can see the city’s grand boulevards radiating outward in a star-like pattern. The views of landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and La Défense are amazing. Beneath the arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, added in 1921 to commemorate the unidentified fallen soldiers of World War I. The Eternal Flame, which is rekindled every evening, symbolizes France’s continued remembrance of those who gave their lives in battle.
Surrounding the Arc de Triomphe are 12 grand avenues, including Avenue de la Grande Armée and Avenue Kléber, making it a central point in Parisian urban design.
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