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Eiffel Tower

LOCAL ATTRACTIONS

To help you make the most of your stay, we have curated a list of premier attractions near Paris, France that are available to explore at your leisure.

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Arc de Triomphe
One of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, built to honor those who fought and died for France in the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars. Standing at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, it also houses the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and offers panoramic views from the top.

Distance: 19-minute drive from InterContinental Paris Le Grand


Tickets are required to view the interior exhibits and access the rooftop views.

Eiffel Tower

Paris’s most famous landmark, built in 1889 for the World’s Fair and named after engineer Gustave Eiffel. Rising above the city along the Seine, it offers multiple observation levels with stunning panoramic views.

Distance: 19-minute drive from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

 

Tickets are required to enter the Eiffel Tower and access the second or top floors, and booking ahead is strongly recommended. Otherwise, you may freely view the tower from the surrounding grounds.

Image by Jorge Martínez, instagram @jormtz9

The Louvre Museum

The world’s largest art museum and one of Paris’s most famous landmarks, housed in a former royal palace. It is home to thousands of masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, spanning centuries of art and history from around the globe.

Distance: 15-minute drive from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

 

Reservations are mandatory; walk-ins are not guaranteed entry. Please note the museum is closed on Tuesdays.

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Musée d’Orsay

Located in a grand former railway station, this museum holds the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces (Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir).

Distance: 20-minute walk (or short taxi) from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

 

Reservations: Recommended. Booking online allows you to bypass the longest ticket lines.

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Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris

A masterpiece of medieval Gothic architecture, renowned for its soaring towers, intricate sculptures, and breathtaking stained-glass rose windows. It has shaped French history and culture for centuries and famously inspired The Hunchback of Notre-Dame by Victor Hugo.

Distance: 35-minute drive from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

 

Reservations are highly suggested to reduce your waiting time at the entrance. 

Image by ian kelsall

Sainte-Chapelle

A stunning 13th-century Gothic chapel on the Île de la Cité, built to house sacred Christian relics. It is especially famous for its breathtaking stained-glass windows, which fill the space with vibrant light and depict detailed biblical scenes.

Distance: 24-minute drive from InterContinental Paris Le Grand
 

Reservation: Booking a time slot ahead is the best way to guarantee entry and avoid long waits.

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Palais Garnier (The Paris Opera)

Palais Garnier is an opulent 19th-century opera house that served as the inspiration for "The Phantom of the Opera." A masterpiece of architecture, the Palais Garnier is famous for its grand marble staircase and the stunning ceiling painted by Marc Chagall.

Distance: 2-minute walk from InterContinental Paris Le Grand
 

Reservations are required, and tickets for tours often sell out in advance. Book as soon as possible!

Shopping & Lifestyle

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Champs-Elysees

Paris’s most famous avenue, stretching from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. Lined with shops, theaters, cafés, and historic landmarks, it is a vibrant hub for shopping, dining, and strolling.

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Galeries Lafayette & Printemps

Iconic French department stores offering luxury brands, gourmet food halls, and incredible Art Nouveau architecture.

Distance: 5-minute walk from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

Pro Tip: Head to the rooftop terrace of Galeries Lafayette for a spectacular, free view of the Eiffel Tower.

Image by Bastien Nvs

Montmartre

Montmartre is a historic hilltop district in Paris, famous for its bohemian atmosphere, winding streets, and artistic heritage. It’s home to the iconic Basilique du Sacré-Cœur and has long attracted painters, writers, and performers.

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Musée du Parfum Fragonard

A sensory museum showcasing the history and secrets of French fragrance manufacturing.

Distance: 3-minute walk from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

Reservations: Free museum tours or paid "Perfumer Apprentice" workshops.

Parks & Sightseeing

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Luxembourg Gardens

A beautifully landscaped park in the heart of Paris, featuring fountains, flowerbeds, statues, and tree-lined promenades. It’s a peaceful retreat for strolling, picnicking, or enjoying outdoor activities, and it surrounds the historic Palais du Luxembourg.

Distance: 28-minute drive from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

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The Tuileries Garden

The quintessential French formal garden connecting the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde. Spend your time on a relaxed stroll or getting a coffee at one of the garden’s many outdoor cafés.

Distance: 10-minute walk from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

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Bateaux-Parisiens (Seine River Cruise)

A scenic way to see the city's monuments (Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay) from the water.

Distance: 20-minute walk (or short taxi) walk from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

Reservations: Not required for basic cruises, but Mandatory for dinner or lunch cruises.

Day Trips from Paris

Image by Armand Khoury

Palace of Versailles

A day trip to the Palace of Versailles takes you from Paris to one of the world’s most opulent royal residences. Explore the lavish State Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and the expansive gardens, and enjoy a glimpse into the grandeur of French monarchy.

Tip: Plan several hours and arrive early.

Distance: Approximately 1-1.25 hours from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

Reservations: Tickets are required to enter the Palace of Versailles, including the Palace, Trianon Estates, and special areas like the Hall of Mirrors, and booking ahead is strongly recommended. The gardens are generally free, except on days with musical fountain shows or special events, which require a ticket.

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Champagne Region (Reims or Épernay)

Just about 45 minutes by train, this famous wine region is perfect for touring historic champagne houses, exploring charming vineyard towns, and tasting world-renowned sparkling wines. Many visitors base themselves in Reims or Épernay for cellar tours and beautiful cathedral views.

Tip: Guided day tours make transportation and tastings easy.

Distance: Approximately 1–1.5 hours from InterContinental Paris Le Grand

Reservations: Champagne house tours in Reims and Épernay require tickets or reservations, especially for tastings and cellar visits, while exploring the cities themselves is free.

Image by Toni Pomar

Disneyland Paris

About 40 minutes from central Paris by train, this magical resort features two parks, themed lands, parades, and attractions for all ages—ideal for anyone wanting a fun, nostalgic escape from the city.

Tip: The closest stop to the Disney Parks is Marne-la-Vallée Chessy.

Getting Around Paris

  • The Metro is the fastest and easiest way to get around most of the city; use apps like Citymapper or Bonjour RATP and consider a Navigo card for tap-and-go travel.

  • Taxis are reliable—use official ones with the “Taxi Parisien” sign or book via the G7 app.

  • Uber works well in Paris and is convenient, but prices can surge; sometimes taxis are faster because they can use bus lanes—utilizing both is recommended.

  • Buses and trams are scenic but slower in traffic; great for short trips.

  • Train tickets can be booked through sncfconnect or trainline. You may also purchase a ticket upon arrival at a train station, subject to availability.

Always remember to watch your belongings on public transport, avoid rush hour when possible, and allow extra time when traveling by car, as Paris traffic can be heavy.

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