Introduction
Paris, which is often called the “City of Light,” never stops being creative, eating, and enjoying culture. If you know what to do in Paris this weekend, you can make the most of your short stay, whether it’s your first time there or you’re going back. This city has something for everyone, from secret walking tours to one-of-a-kind restaurants, world-class museums, and exciting nightlife.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through 12 unmissable local experiences in Paris, discuss some common issues that tourists encounter, and explain how WeShare can make your trip easier and more enjoyable.
1. Discover the Charm of Paris Through a Local Walking Tour
Which walking tours in Paris are highly recommended?
Walking is one of the best ways to get to know the heart of Paris. Guided walking tours give you a close look at the city’s history, culture, and less well-known areas. Some walking tours you have to do are: The
- Le Marais Historical Walking Tour: which takes you through the city’s Jewish history, aristocratic mansions, and trendy art galleries.
- Montmartre Art & History Tour: Walk the same cobblestone streets that Picasso and Van Gogh did.
- Latin Quarter Literary Tour: Visit places where Hemingway, Sartre, and other great thinkers used to hang out.
Pain Point: Tourists often miss out on these activities because they only go to popular attractions.
WeShare Solution: WeShare puts together real walking tour packages with local guides who give you a lot of information and let you skip the line.
2. Savor Authentic Parisian Flavors at Top Restaurants
What are the best restaurants to try in Paris for a foodie experience?
Paris is a food lover’s paradise. There are plenty of places to eat that will satisfy your taste, whether you like Michelin-starred meals or simple bistros. Some of the best suggestions are:
- Le Comptoir du Relais (Saint-Germain-des-Prés): French classics with a modern twist.
- Septime (11th Arr.): A Michelin-starred restaurant that cares about the environment.
- Chez Janou (Le Marais): A cozy neighborhood bistro that serves Provencal food.
These places are often on “best of” lists, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation ahead of time.
3. Try a Unique Dining Experience
Which unique dining experiences should I try in Paris?
Think about these experiences if you want something out of the ordinary:
- Seine River Dinner Cruise: A romantic and beautiful way to eat while seeing the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
- Hidden Supper Clubs: Hosted in Parisian homes, offering local dishes and intimate conversations.
- Dans Le Noir? – You eat in total darkness and are served by staff who can’t see. This is a one-of-a-kind experience.
Pain Point: Tourists tend to stick to popular chains or busy tourist spots, missing out on the fun of trying new foods.
WeShare Solution: WeShare’s local experts choose hidden restaurants that have great food and are true to their culture.
4. Explore Parisian Nightlife Like a Local
What are the top nightlife spots to visit in Paris?
After dark, Paris becomes a playground of lights, music, and energy. If you’re looking for what to do in Paris this weekend, here are some of the best places to go:
- Rex Club is a famous techno club that is known for having the best music.
- Le Comptoir Général is a strange place by the river that has an Afro-Caribbean vibe and eco-friendly drinks.
- Moulin Rouge is famous all over the world for its cabaret shows. It’s a must-see in Paris.
If you want to relax, go to Canal Saint-Martin, where locals gather with guitars and wine for spontaneous evenings.
5. Step Back in Time with Historical Attractions
What must-see historical attractions are there in Paris?
You can’t go to Paris without learning about its long history. The Louvre Museum, which has the Mona Lisa and thousands of other historic works of art, is one of the most famous places to visit.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral is still being worked on, but it’s worth seeing from the Seine.
- The Palace of Versailles is just outside of Paris, but it’s worth the trip for its beautiful gardens and wealth.
- Sainte-Chapelle is a Gothic masterpiece with beautiful stained glass windows.
Pain Point: Long lines and ticketing systems that are hard to understand can ruin the experience.
WeShare’s answer: WeShare’s easy-to-use platform lets you book skip-the-line tickets and guided tours.
6. Stroll Through the Luxembourg Gardens
If you want to go slower, spend a morning or late afternoon at the Jardin du Luxembourg. People who live nearby love this place because of its quiet charm, tree-lined paths, and fountains.
Rent a classic green chair, drink an espresso, and watch the world go by.
7. Go to street markets in Paris
Markets like Marché Bastille and Rue Cler sell local cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, antiques, and crafts made by hand. A great place to get real souvenirs or have a picnic.
At Marché Bastille, one of the city’s largest open-air markets, you’ll find everything from fresh-cut flowers and artisan breads to locally made cheeses and wines.
It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike, especially for weekend shopping.
8. Get a view of the city from Montparnasse Tower
If you want to see the Eiffel Tower from above, go to Montparnasse Tower instead. You won’t have to wait in line.Unlike more touristy attractions, the Montparnasse Tower is often overlooked, which means shorter lines and less waiting. You can take a high-speed elevator that whisks you to the top in just 38 seconds, making it one of the most efficient ways to take in the cityscape.
9. Go to the Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
This famous English-language bookstore in the Latin Quarter has hosted famous writers and is a great place to read, write, or go to poetry readings and other events.Famous for its bohemian spirit and labyrinthine rooms filled with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, the store has welcomed literary giants like Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, and Allen Ginsberg. Even today, it’s a meeting point for writers and thinkers from around the world.
10. Go on a Seine River Cruise at Dusk
A Seine river cruise is great for couples and people traveling alone. It gives you a new view of Paris’s famous buildings, especially when they light up at night.As the sun sets and the sky begins to glow in hues of gold and rose, the city slowly transforms. Landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, and Musée d’Orsay are bathed in soft evening light—then illuminated with dazzling lights as night falls.
11. Visit the Catacombs in Paris
If you want to see something creepy and unforgettable, go down into Les Catacombes, a network of tunnels that holds the remains of more than six million people. A guided tour is a great way to learn about the history of the area.
If you’re looking to explore a darker, more mysterious side of Paris, head beneath the city streets to the Catacombs of Paris (Les Catacombes).
Far from the romantic boulevards and glittering landmarks, this underground labyrinth offers a truly unforgettable and chilling experience.
12. Go to a festival or event in Paris
Paris may have events like the Paris Jazz Festival, Nuit Blanche, or food and wine fairs in neighborhood squares on the weekends. Check local calendars or book through WeShare for a list of planned events this weekend.
Tips for Finding the Right Event
- Check local event calendars like ParisInfo.com or TimeOut Paris.
- Ask your hotel concierge or local hosts for neighborhood happenings.
- Use apps like WeShare to discover and book curated events, skip lines, and even get personalized recommendations based on your interests.
Common Pain Points for Weekend Travelers in Paris
1. Too Many Options: Paris has so much to offer that it’s easy to miss out on the best things to do without a good plan.
2. Language Barrier: Even though a lot of people speak English, some local tours and services still mostly use French.
3. Managing Time: It’s hard to fit in sightseeing, eating, and relaxing in just a weekend without help.
4. Long Lines and Confusing Reservations: Museums and attractions often have long lines, and their reservation systems don’t always work the same way.
How WeShare Can Help
WeShare is the only travel app you need to see Paris in a fun and efficient way. Here’s how:
- Local Experiences Curated: Everything, from walking tours to dinner reservations, is sourced locally and approved by travelers.
- Customer support is available 24/7 for emergency bookings or last-minute questions during your trip.
- Skip-the-Line and Priority Access: Get tickets ahead of time to save time at popular places.
- Customized Weekend Itineraries: Let WeShare know what you like, and they’ll make a plan that works for you.
- WeShare helps you see Paris like a local, so you can enjoy it without the stress.
Conclusion
Now that you know what to do in Paris this weekend, it’s time to plan a trip that will be full of new experiences, tastes, and cultures. Your perfect weekend is waiting for you, whether you want to walk through streets that are hundreds of years old, eat fancy food, or dance the night away in Paris.
WeShare will take the guesswork out of planning so you can spend more time making memories that will last a lifetime.
FAQs about What to Do in Paris This Weekend
Q1. What should I bring for a weekend in Paris?
Bring comfortable shoes, a light jacket (even in the summer), and an umbrella, and dress well. Parisians like people who dress well.
Q2: Are walking tours in Paris worth it?
Yes, for sure. They give you historical context, cultural insights, and access to places you might not find on your own.
Q3: Is it safe to walk around Paris at night?
Most neighborhoods in the center are safe, but you should always be aware of your surroundings and stay away from empty streets at night.
Q4: Is it possible to enjoy Paris even if I don’t speak French?
Yes, but knowing some basic phrases can make your trip better and show that you respect the local culture.
Q5: How can WeShare help me make plans for the weekend in Paris?
WeShare makes it easy to book tours, attractions, meals, and transportation that fit your travel style.