The New Attractions on Your Paris Itinerary in 2024-25

Paris has always been one of the best and most visited travel destinations in the world, and it never disappoints. Deep in culture, rich in history, and brimming with modern developments, fashion, and food, the city offers something for everyone at the highest level. From the grandeur of its historic architecture to the avant-garde of its modern art scene, Paris is a city that deserves more than just one visit. It’s a place where world events unfold, such as the recent Olympic Games, and where the excitement is set to continue with the upcoming Paralympics.

For first-time visitors, there is a wealth of must-see attractions to cover.

You can’t miss the world-class art museums like the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Rodin Museum. For a breathtaking overview of the city, take a scenic river cruise or ascend the Arc de Triomphe or Eiffel Tower for dramatic views of Paris (check out my blog post on Paris City Viewpoints).

Another great way to soak in the beauty of Paris is to rent a bike and cycle along the River Seine, taking in the iconic landmarks and bridges (read my Paris Cycling City Guide for tips).

But for those returning to Paris or looking to explore beyond the classic sights, there’s a new wave of attractions to add to your itinerary. Paris is always evolving, and the latest openings and renovations offer fresh experiences for even the most seasoned travelers. In this blog post, I’ll cover some of the newest, most exciting attractions in Paris that are perfect for those interested in something new and different for their next visit.

If you have any great suggestions to share, feel free to comment below and help fellow readers discover even more gems in this incredible city!

Relive the Olympic Magic: Explore the Latest Attractions in Paris

While the Olympic Games have already come to an exhilarating close (and yes, I was lucky enough to be there in person!), the spirit of the Games lingers in Paris, offering visitors a chance to soak in the Olympic atmosphere.

Start your journey at the iconic Eiffel Tower, which proudly displays the Olympic rings. The Eiffel Tower, originally constructed for the 1889 World’s Fair to showcase France’s industrial prowess, has long been a symbol of innovation and global unity.

Though initially met with mixed reactions, the tower has stood the test of time, becoming one of the world’s most beloved landmarks.

Now, a century since Paris last hosted the Olympics, the rings on the Eiffel Tower celebrate this momentous occasion. Installed ahead of the Games, the rings will remain on display, allowing visitors to capture this historic sight. For a perfect photo op, stroll along the scenic riverwalk from Alma-Marceau to Passy metro station, where you can snap stunning views of the Eiffel Tower adorned with its Olympic rings.

Another must-see Olympic-themed attraction is the vibrant “Olympism” sculpture installation at the Palais Bourbon, located at the French National Assembly. From April 2 to September 22, artist Laurent Perbos’s six colorful statues dedicated to Olympism are on display on the steps leading to this historic building. Each statue, painted in vivid hues, represents the diverse spirit and energy of the Games, celebrating athleticism, unity, and cultural exchange. The best part? There’s no ticket or reservation needed to enjoy this unique display.

Don’t miss out on “La Terrasse de Jeux” at Paris’s Hôtel de Ville in the 4th arrondissement, running from July 20 to September 8. This exciting spot transforms the city hall’s forecourt into a lively hub featuring two giant screens for live Olympic watching parties, daily concerts, cultural performances, and even a climbing wall! Arrive on July 14 (Bastille Day) to witness the Olympic Flame’s arrival and participate in a range of activities, from workshops on responsible cooking to Pilates sessions.

Finally, make your way to Avenue Winston Churchill to catch the temporary exhibition “The Body in Motion” at Petit Palais.

Running from May 15 to November 17, 2024, this exhibition, part of the Cultural Olympiad, explores the intersection of art and sport, capturing the dynamism and grace of the human form in motion.

It’s an extraordinary celebration of athleticism and artistry that will inspire both sports enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

These attractions provide a fantastic way to relive the magic of the Olympics and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Paris. Don’t forget to share your favorite Olympic-inspired spots in the comments below!

Discover Modern Art at Centre Pompidou Before Its Major Renovation

No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to the Centre Pompidou, a beacon of contemporary art and culture in the heart of the city. Designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers, this groundbreaking museum, with its distinctive “inside-out” architecture of exposed pipes and vibrant color-coded exteriors, has been a hub for modern and contemporary art lovers since it opened in 1977. The museum boasts an impressive collection of over 100,000 works, featuring iconic pieces by masters such as Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Henri Matisse. Notable exhibitions have celebrated the likes of Kandinsky, Duchamp, and Miró, offering visitors a journey through the evolution of modern art.

But if you want to experience the Centre Pompidou, you’ll need to plan your visit soon. Starting in September 2025, the museum will close for an extensive five-year renovation, the first of its kind since the building opened. This renovation is crucial to address structural issues, upgrade the aging ventilation, electrical, and heating systems, and ensure the building complies with current safety and accessibility standards. While these updates are necessary to preserve this cultural landmark for future generations, it means that art enthusiasts have a limited window to explore its vast collections and exhibitions in their current home.

Until the closure, the Centre Pompidou is expected to host a range of special exhibitions and events, making it an essential stop on your Paris itinerary. Be sure to check their schedule and plan your visit accordingly to witness this architectural marvel and its extraordinary art collection before it temporarily closes its doors. Don’t miss this last chance to explore one of the world’s most important modern art museums in its original form!

Indulge in Parisian Shopping: New Spots to Explore in 2024

Paris is synonymous with luxury and fashion, making it one of the world’s best destinations for shopping. As the birthplace of many renowned luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Dior, Paris offers a unique shopping experience that goes beyond the ordinary. From the top-notch service provided by attentive sales assistants to the allure of a 12% tax refund for tourists, shopping in Paris is both a treat and an adventure. The city’s iconic department stores – Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Le Bon Marché, and La Samaritaine – are themselves landmarks, each offering a distinct blend of elegance and history.

La Samaritaine, one of Paris’s oldest and most beloved department stores, has recently reopened its doors after being closed for renovations since 2005. Built between 1926 and 1928 in the stunning Art Nouveau style, La Samaritaine has always been more than just a shopping destination; it is a piece of Parisian history. To preserve this iconic heritage overlooking the Seine, the LVMH group, which acquired the property in the early 2000s, invested a staggering 750 million euros in extensive renovations. The grand reopening in May 2021 has breathed new life into this historic building, seamlessly blending its rich past with a vibrant future.

What can you expect from the newly renovated La Samaritaine? Behind its magnificent glass façade, this ‘temple to the art of living’ now features a luxurious shopping center with a mix of high-end boutiques, offices, residential apartments, and even a nursery. On the top floor, the restaurant La Halle aux Grains offers a gourmet dining experience under the direction of Michelin-starred chef Michel Bras, providing panoramic views of the gardens of Les Halles, the Saint-Eustache Church, and the distant Centre Pompidou. This revitalized space is more than just a place to shop—it’s a modern marvel that pays homage to Parisian culture and style, making it a must-visit destination on your 2024 itinerary.

A Journey Through the Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection

The Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection is an extraordinary addition to Paris’s vibrant museum landscape, offering visitors a journey through both time and art. Originally built in the 16th century and evolving through various architectural transformations, the Bourse de Commerce stands as a testament to Paris’s rich history and commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.

In 2016, François Pinault, a renowned French art collector, was entrusted by the City of Paris with transforming this historical building into a contemporary art museum. The result is a breathtaking fusion of old and new, where the past and present converge under the vision of Japanese architect Tadao Ando, who designed a striking 30-foot-high concrete cylinder at the museum’s core to serve as its main exhibition gallery.

Named after François Pinault, the Pinault Collection showcases his vast assemblage of modern and contemporary art. As you step into the museum, you are greeted by the light-filled Rotunda, where the Korean artist Kimsooja’s Breathe – Constellation art installation captivates with its dynamic interplay of color and light. This space, along with the historic Passageway on the ground floor, creates a welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to explore.

The museum’s galleries are thoughtfully curated to present diverse artistic expressions. The Human Comedy exhibition, for instance, features the works of Liu Wei, Cindy Sherman (known for her iconic self-portraits), Pol Taburet, and Salman Toor, while Sturtevant’s replica of Duchamp’s famous urinal (also seen at Tate Modern in London) challenges our perceptions of art and originality.

As you move through Gallery 4, you encounter the thought-provoking works of Anne Imhof, Kiki Kogelnik, and Bertrand Lavier in Making Ruins, which delves into themes of decay and transformation. Gallery 5 highlights pieces from contemporary icons such as Jeff Koons, General Idea, Robert Gober, Damien Hirst, and Sherrie Levine, offering a fascinating look into the diverse world of modern art.

Meanwhile, Gallery 6 showcases works by Rosemarie Trockel, including her evocative 1982 piece Trauma and the 2011 installation Replace Me. Finally, Gallery 7 presents Eternity, a 2021 work by Luc Tuymans, which invites reflection on time and memory.

Despite its impressive collection, the Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection is a more intimate art space, allowing visitors to experience world-class exhibitions without feeling overwhelmed. The stunning architecture, natural light pouring through the Rotunda, and the seamless blend of history and contemporary art make this museum a must-visit for anyone exploring Paris. As you meander through its halls, you are not only experiencing art but also engaging with the cultural and architectural evolution of Paris itself. This museum is just one of the many new and exciting spaces to explore in Paris, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through the city’s artistic landscape.

Hôtel de la Marine – A Journey Through Time and Elegance

Nestled in the heart of Paris, right next to the Place de la Concorde and its iconic Egyptian Obelisk, Hôtel de la Marine opened its doors to the public in May 2021, unveiling a stunning transformation that celebrates the French ‘art de vivre’. Steeped in history, this remarkable building has served various purposes since 1774, from being a royal depository for exquisite furnishings to the headquarters of France’s Naval Ministry. Now, it stands as a beautifully restored museum that offers visitors a rare glimpse into the splendor of 18th and 19th-century French culture and craftsmanship.

Inside Hôtel de la Marine, two themed routes guide visitors through the meticulously restored apartments of the Intendant, opulent state reception rooms, and the loggia, which provides a breathtaking view of the bustling Place de la Concorde.

The rich décor and intricate details of each room are a testament to the skilled artisans who have revived this historical treasure to its former glory. The museum showcases a wide array of French traditions and exceptional craftsmanship, making it a must-see for anyone keen to immerse themselves in the elegance of French heritage.

Culinary enthusiasts will be thrilled to know that Michelin-starred chefs Alain Ducasse and Jean-François Piège have brought their expertise to the tea room and restaurant within the museum. This collaboration enhances the experience by promoting the arts of the table and French gastronomy. In addition, the legendary Café Lapérouse has chosen Hôtel de la Marine as its first “off-site” location, offering everything from a wine cellar and grocery store to an ice cream and chocolate shop. Open throughout the week, Café Lapérouse is a vibrant hub where visitors can savor the delights of French cuisine and hospitality from morning until night.

The museum also boasts a dedicated exhibition space for the famous Al Thani Collection, showcasing a staggering 6,000 works, including antiques, paintings, medieval manuscripts, historical objects, and jewelry. This collection provides an unparalleled journey through the annals of art and history, allowing visitors to marvel at some of the world’s most exquisite artifacts.

One of the most captivating aspects of Hôtel de la Marine is its innovative audio guide, which offers a truly immersive experience. This isn’t just any audio tour—it’s a lively, surround-sound interpretation that transports you back in time, bringing the voices and sounds of the past to life as you explore each room. The moment you step into a new space, the audio guide begins, creating the sensation that you are amidst the people who once inhabited these grand rooms. This remarkable fusion of history and technology makes Hôtel de la Marine a unique and unforgettable experience, ensuring it earns a prime spot on your Paris itinerary.

Parisian Elegance Unveiled: The Fashion Museum, Palais Galliera

For anyone with a passion for fashion, a visit to the Palais Galliera, Paris’s premier fashion museum, is a must. Located in the chic 16th arrondissement, the Palais Galliera stands as a tribute to Paris’s enduring legacy as the fashion capital of the world. Fashion and museums have long held a special place in Parisian culture, showcasing the city’s role as a global hub of creativity and style. Paris has always been synonymous with haute couture, the birthplace of countless fashion trends, and the stage for some of the most iconic runway shows in history. The Palais Galliera embodies this rich history, offering visitors a glimpse into the evolution of fashion through the ages.

Originally built in the 19th century, the Palais Galliera has been the Musée de la Mode de la Ville de Paris since 1977, dedicated to celebrating French fashion design and costume from the eighteenth century to the present day. Following a major renovation, the museum reopened its doors in 2013 but had limited its exhibitions to temporary displays for conservation reasons.

That changed dramatically in 2021, when the Palais Galliera unveiled a newly expanded exhibition space. For the first time, visitors can now explore galleries devoted to its permanent collections, marking a new chapter in the museum’s storied history.

So, what’s new at the Palais Galliera? After two years of renovations, the museum has been reimagined to accommodate a more extensive and varied collection. The latest exhibition, titled “Une histoire de la mode. Collectionner, exposer au Palais Galliera” (A History of Fashion: Collecting, Exhibiting at the Palais Galliera), offers an in-depth exploration of the museum’s history and the evolution of fashion.

This exhibit is not just a walk through time but a dynamic showcase of style, featuring 350 pieces, including clothing, accessories, and even graphic and photographic arts. The displays are regularly updated, providing a fresh perspective and a perfect reason to return.

Walking through the museum, you can marvel at the “Jardin des Modes,” a fashion magazine from the 1920s that captures the essence of that era’s style, or leaf through a 1924 issue highlighting fashion during the Paris Olympics—a particularly fascinating glimpse into the intersection of sports and style. The museum also offers insights into the evolution of luxury brands over the decades, showcasing how swimwear fashion has transformed over time with the “Les Bains de Mer” culture.

The Palais Galliera is conveniently located in Paris’s 16th arrondissement, near the Trocadéro Gardens. Easily accessible by metro or bus, it provides an enriching experience for fashion enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

Rediscover Paris: New Museum Transformations Await

Parisian museums have been buzzing with new energy since 2021, offering a fresh take on beloved cultural spaces. As the world emerged from the shadows of the pandemic, these institutions seized the moment to renew and reinvent themselves, making now the perfect time to revisit some of your old favorites. With the upcoming Paris Olympics, many museums have unveiled exciting transformations and updates to attract both new and returning visitors.

The Musée de l’Orangerie, best known for its stunning display of Monet’s water lilies, has recently expanded its offerings beyond the iconic Nymphéas. Following a significant renovation, the museum introduced a new permanent collection – the Walter-Guillaume Collection.

This exquisite collection features masterpieces from the likes of Cézanne, Picasso, and Modigliani, providing a deeper dive into early 20th-century art. It’s a delightful surprise for those who thought they had seen all there was to see at this intimate museum.

Another gem, the Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, reopened its doors on May 29, 2021, after an extensive renovation. Visitors can now explore newly designed spaces such as the Wendel Ballroom and the Sign Room, along with refreshed exhibits that offer a more comprehensive narrative of Parisian history. The museum has also enhanced the visitor experience in Victor Hugo’s former apartment, located on the elegant Place des Vosges. The revamped layout offers a more intimate glimpse into the life and times of the famed writer, showcasing his personal artifacts and creative world.

Not to be outdone, the Maison de Victor Hugo reopened on May 19, 2021, after being closed for over two years. This historic house museum, once home to the literary giant, has expanded its exhibition spaces and restored many collection pieces. Here, you can immerse yourself in Hugo’s world, from his personal art collection and manuscripts to the very rooms where he penned some of his greatest works. For those fascinated by Hugo’s creative exile on the island of Guernsey, the museum now offers new insights into his life there as well.

And don’t miss the newly reimagined Hunting and Nature Museum, which has reopened with more than just its unique collection of artifacts. This quirky museum in the Marais district now boasts expanded spaces, a refreshed layout, and the addition of a charming tea room—a perfect spot to relax and reflect after exploring the exhibits.

Each of these museums offers something new and exciting, even for the most seasoned visitor. So, whether you’re a frequent museum-goer or planning your first visit to Paris, now is the time to dive back into these transformed cultural treasures and experience them like never before.