Things to do in Paris on a Sunday

As with most European cities, Paris quietens down on a Sunday. The city takes on a more relaxed pace, the streets are quieter, and shops are boarded up for a day of rest. But not to worry if you are in Paris on a Sunday — there are still many amazing things that you can do. Here are some of the top things to do in Paris on a Sunday.

Have Brunch at Le Marais

Le Marais, the famous Jewish Quarter of Paris, bursts to life on Sunday. Given the Jewish religion dubs Friday and Saturday the weekend, everything in Le Marais is open on a Sunday! There are lots of cafes and food options to choose from, and what better way to start your Sunday than to have a hearty and amazing brunch? Some popular options include Carette, Season Marais, or Le Ju'. You also definitely have to try the fallafel at L’As du Fallafel — they are probably the best fallafel that you will have, and at a very affordable price.

Visit Museums

While shops and supermarkets may be closed, most of the top museums and attractions remain open on Sundays. From the must-see Louvre to the Musee d’Orsay or Grévin Museum, Paris has plenty of museums for you to choose from. Spend your day visiting the museums and admiring the classic pieces of art displayed in the museums.****

While the museums are opened on Sundays, they also typically close for one day a week (usually on Mondays or Tuesdays). Some museums offer free admissions on the first Sunday of the month, and the Louvre offers free admissions every Sunday from October to March. So while planning your itinerary, perhaps consider planning your museum visits on Sundays! If you are planning to go on a day where entry is free, you might have to queue to get in.

Visit a Market

Paris is home to one of Europe’s biggest flea markets, Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen, open from 10am to 6pm from Saturdays to Mondays. Here you’ll find all sorts of things on sale, from 19th century appliances and antiques to vintage and trendy accessories. If you’re looking for a bargain or simply just in a mood for discovery and browsing, you’ll certainly be kept entertained and amazed with what you can find at the market.

Apart from flea markets, you can also visit one of Paris’ open-air markets for some fresh produce or to simply enjoy the local market experience in Paris. Some of the markets to check out on a Sunday include** **Marche Bastille, Marche d’Aligre, or Marche Monge.

Wander through Montmartre

Montmartre is a charming neighborhood located on a hill in the 18th arrondissement of Paris. It is famous for its narrow streets, artists' studios, and stunning views of the city. The neighbourhood comes to life in the afternoon, where the streets are filled with buskers and artists, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

You can also visit the iconic Sacré-Coeur Basilica which houses the largest mosaic in France, wander through the streets and take in the beautiful views, or plant yourself at one of the cafes as you soak in the artistic and laid-back vibe perfect for a Sunday afternoon. Consider also checking out the Musée de Montmartre, an art museum set in a 17th-century house and garden where Renoir once worked.

Take a Day Trip out of Paris

There are a few day trips from Paris that you could consider taking on a Sunday if you wanted to see something different. Not to worry if you don’t drive— there are a number of day trips that you can go on by trains. One of the most popular destinations for a day trip from Paris would be a trip to the Palace of Versailles to see how French royals once lived. Alternatively, you can also consider a trip to the Basilique Saint-Denis which features a royal burial site. If you are looking for something more vibrant and magical, there is always Paris Disneyland awaiting you!