Paris Beyond Eiffel Tower: Less Known Landmarks & Monuments

Believe it or not, Paris is more than the Eiffel Tower. Don’t get us wrong, it’s a beautiful piece of architecture, but the city has so much more to explore. I mean, think about it, Paris has been around for a very long time— meaning many things have popped up throughout history that are equally (if not cooler) than Miss Eiffel. That means there are many Paris less-known monuments you might not know about.

In this piece, we’ll be talking and showing you pictures of some of the lesser-known monuments and landmarks that we think deserve more hype. Regarding touristy things, Paris has got all the other cities beat. As you read, open up your Google Maps (or regular maps) and pin these iconic locations to visit the next time you’re in Paris.

Traveling can be difficult and expensive, so with Nannybag, you can find budget-friendly luggage storage in Paris. For only 6 euros per bag per day (any size!), you can safely store your luggage at any of our convenient locations around the city. We want to make your trip to Paris as memorable as possible. Now onto those original Paris landmarks and monuments you’ll soon have fond memories of!

Pont Alexandre III

Pont Alexandre III is a gorgeous bridge in Paris that spans the Seine River. Its construction was completed for the Universal Exposition held in Paris in 1900 and named after Tsar Alexander III of Russia. The bridge it’s known for its grandeur with its ornate details, it is adorned with beautiful sculptures, lampposts, and golden accents.

Walking across Pont Alexandre III offers a convenient way to cross the Seine and magnificent views of the surrounding landmarks and other Paris monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, and the Grand Palais. It’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll and capturing snapshots of your trip.

Address: Pont Alexandre III, 75008

Hours: Open 24/7 (as it is a bridge)

Centre Pompidou

Designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, Centre Pompidou is a renowned cultural institution in Paris's Beaubourg area. The building's unique design feature an exposed skeletal structure, with brightly colored pipes and escalators on the exterior, giving it a futuristic appearance that stands in contrast to the surrounding historic buildings.

Inside the center, visitors can explore the National Museum of Modern Art, which houses an extensive collection of contemporary and modern artworks. The center also includes a vast library, a cinema, and performance spaces that host various cultural events and exhibitions, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Address: Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 

Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, Closed on Tuesdays

Sacre-Coeur Basilica

Perched atop the lovely neighborhood of Montmartre lies the Sacre Cœur. This majestic church captivates visitors with its beautiful structure and panoramic views. The basilica was constructed between 1875 and 1914 and showcases a mix of Romano-Byzantine and Gothic architectural styles.

To reach the church, you can take a funicular— if you have a metro card, this is included! Or you can take the stairs, they’re a bit of a challenge, but we promise the view is worth it.

Address: 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 75018 

Hours: Basilica is open daily from 6:00 AM to 10:30 PM

Musée d’Orsay

Housed in an old railway station, the Musée d'Orsay is a cultural gem on the Seine River Left Bank. The museum holds a remarkable collection of artworks from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century and offers a comprehensive overview of the Impressionist, post-Impressionist, and Art Nouveau movements.

You can marvel at renowned works by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, and Cézanne. The museum's collection spans various mediums, including paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and photography. They also host temporary exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events.

Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 75007 

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM, open until 9:45 on Thursdays, closed on Mondays

Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chapelle is a hidden gem in the city. Built in the 13th century, this stunning Gothic chapel was commissioned by King Louis IX to house precious Christian relics, including the Crown of Thorns. The exterior might seem plain and simple, but once you step inside, you’ll realize the intricate detailing that has been put into the interior.

The space is adorned with breathtaking stained glass windows that stretch from floor to ceiling, depicting intricate biblical scenes. Sainte-Chapelle's beauty and significance make it a must-visit destination for lovers of architecture, art, and history— for Catholics and non-Catholics alike.

Address: 8 Boulevard du Palais, 75001

Hours: March to October: 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, November to February: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Place de la Concorde

Place de la Concorde is one of Paris’s most significant public squares. You can find Place de la Concorde at the eastern end of the Champs-Élysées near the Louvre.

The square has many pivotal and historical moments, including the French Revolution. In 1793 and 1794, Louis XVI, Marie-Antoinette, Danton, and many anonymous people were guillotined here. And in 1795, it officially became known as Place de la Concorde.

In the center of the plaza, you’ll see an obelisk. This obelisk was a gifted from Egypt back in the 19th century. When you find yourself near the area, walk by and admire its grandeur and hieroglyphics.

Address: Place de la Concorde, 75008

Hours: Open 24/7

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Established in 1804, the cemetery spans over 100 acres and is a peaceful retreat from the city. Père Lachaise Cemetery is the final resting place of many notable figures, such as Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Marcel Proust, and Oscar Wilde, to name a few. The cemetery can be a maze, so try not to get lost as you explore its nooks and crannies.

The best time to visit the cemetery is during the fall to witness the changing color of the leaves and the spookiness of the season!

Address: 16 Rue du Repos, 75020

Hours: Mon to Fri: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Sat: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Sun: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Canal Saint-Martin

Built in the early 19th century to improve the city's water supply and transportation, the canal has become a popular spot for locals and visitors. The canal is lined with trees, stores, and restaurants, allowing you to sit by the water and enjoy nature or do some shopping.

This area is best enjoyed by walking to take in all the details from the boats passing by the locks on the bridges. In the warmer months, this becomes a gathering place. So if you find yourself in Paris over the summer, grab some charcuterie (& wine) at the closest “épicerie” and find yourself a spot by the water.

Address: Canal Saint-Martin, 75010

Hours: Open 24/7

Square René-Viviani

Named after René Viviani, a prominent French politician, and the country's first Prime Minister during World War I, Square René-Viviani is a charming little park that offers a break from the city. The park is best known for having the oldest tree in Paris, Square's Tree. Here you can relax on the park's benches, surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers. Bring a book and step away from the bustle of the city in this square.

Address: Place René-Viviani, 75005

Hours: Open 24/7

The Conciergerie

Originally a royal palace, The Conciergerie later served as a prison during the French Revolution. This prison housed Marie Antoinette before she was sentenced to be guillotined. The building provides a glimpse into the turbulent era of the revolution, shedding light on the harsh conditions and events that unfolded within the walls. But on a less ominous note, the building’s medieval architecture is fascinating.

Address: 2 Boulevard du Palais, 75001

Hours: Monday to Sunday: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Notre Dame de Paris

Notre Dame de Paris is an iconic cathedral that holds a special place in the hearts of many. Its iconic Gothic architecture has made it one of the city's symbols. Construction of the cathedral began in the 12th century and took several centuries to complete. The Notre Dame Cathedral is known for its impressive stained-glass windows, including the famous rose window.

The Cathedral also played a central role in literature, most notably in Victor Hugo's novel "The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”, & yes, it was a novel before a Disney movie. Notre Dame is still undergoing restoration efforts after the devastating fire in 2019. While you can’t tour inside for the time being, it’s still a mesmerizing site to visit to connect with the centuries of history in the city.

Address: 6 Parvis Notre-Dame - Pl. Jean-Paul II, 75004

Hours: Closed until 2024

Place des Vosges

Place des Vosges is a square in the Marais district, known for its elegant red-brick buildings and architectural symmetry. Fun fact, it’s the oldest planned square in Paris and dates back to the early 17th century! The square is surrounded by art galleries, boutiques, and cafés, giving you the perfect excuse to spend the day there. Choose to relax on the park benches or enjoy a meal at one of the charming restaurants with outdoor seating and take in the history simultaneously.

Address: Place des Vosges, 75004

Hours: Open 24/7

Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier is also known as the Opéra Garnier— a magnificent opera house in the heart of Paris. It was designed in the Beaux-Arts style by Charles Garnier and completed in 1875. The exterior of the Palais Garnier features intricate carvings, statues, and a stunning rooftop. In the interior, you can find a grand staircase, often called the "Grand Escalier," which is a masterpiece.

Beyond its architecture, Palais Garnier has played a significant role in opera and ballet and has hosted countless prestigious performances and world-renowned artists and musicians. If you ca not catch a show, visiting the exterior is well worth visiting.

Address: 8 Rue Scribe, 75009

Hours: Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM