Underrated or Overrated? Ten top Paris sights ranked by an expert

When time is precious, knowing which sights are worth visiting, and which aren't, can be vital information.

Hello everyone,

In recent years Paris seems to have become ubiquitous, be it online, in the zeitgeist or across the media. With such levels of omnipresence, it’s inevitable to start having conversations around whether something is underrated or overrated. As it’s such a subjective topic, I decided to have an in-depth conversation with a Paris expert and figure out which sights cut the mustard and which have floundered under the weight of disappointment. And who better to offer their expertise than My Private Paris’s very own Marie Segura?

With her finger on the pulse of what is unmissable in Paris, I trust Marie’s opinion. On this week’s podcast, I present ten top things to do in Paris and she rates them as underrated or overrated and, spoiler alert, there are some surprises in there.

The podcast episode

Listen below, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find the episode on iTunes or Spotify or via my website here.

1. Montmartre - OVERRATED

There’s a bit of a caveat with this one, because Marie is talking about a specific part of Montmartre and, overall, the expectation of what a visit to this neighbourhood will be. If you visit the crowded Place de Tertre in the high season then this is a surefire way to consider Montmartre as overrated. However, Marie concedes that the quieter, less exploited side of Montmartre hasn’t lost its authentic charm.

Find more in the 18th arrondissement.

2. The Mona Lisa - UNDERRATED

Visiting the Mona Lisa has sadly become one of many checklist items to be done on a Paris trip. Marie implores visitors to go beyond taking a quick selfie and moving on and, rather, seeing the real person and listening to the story behind this A-list painting.

Find more in the 1st arrondissement.

3. The summit of the Eiffel Tower - OVERRATED

Visiting the Eiffel Tower is one of the most popular activities to do in Paris, but, according to Marie, there’s a hack to have the best experience. And that doesn’t involve going to the very top. “To me the best part is the second floor, where you have the cafes, the view is great…to go to the summit, you have to queue again and it’s cloudy and windy.”

Find more in the 7th arrondissement.

4. Opéra Garnier - UNDERRATED

The Opéra Garnier is a spectacular building, reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles, which is easily overlooked. It’s true that its central Paris location, whilst easy to access, isn’t the nicest to walk around and can be off-putting. If you’re willing to look past this drawback, Marie cannot recommend its stunning design (both interior and exterior) enough.

Find more in the 9th arrondissement.

5. Avenue des Champs-Elysées - OVERRATED

The most famous avenue in the world, but is it worth it? In a word - no. The expectations of this street are high, but the reality is quite underwhelming. It’s long, it’s uphill and, whilst it’s home to many luxury brands, the underwhelming restaurants and fast food chains make for a disappointing atmosphere. However, what is not overrated is the Arc de Triomphe, which is more than worth a visit.

Find more in the 8th arrondissement.

6. Châtelet & Les Halles - UNDERRATED

Central Paris has long had the reputation of being very poor and seedy. But, this image is totally outdated and today the area around the church of Saint-Eustache, as well as Rue Montorgueil and Rue Montmartre, is a hub of charming streets and excellent gastronomic establishments. A terrific part of the city to explore on foot.

Find more in the 2nd arrondissement.

7. The Catacombs - OVERRATED

The anticipation of visiting this famous ossuary is tantalising, as there is an air of the clandestine floating around the Catacombs. However, Marie believes that the true-life experience doesn’t live up to the hype. The ticket prices are pretty steep and the actual space open to the public is quite limited (though if you book to go with an accredited guide you can see more than the regular punters). If you want to visit the dead, go to Père Lachaise cemetery instead.

Find more in the 14th arrondissement.

8. Rodin museum - UNDERRATED

One of the most special museums in Paris. Its amazing garden is home to treasures like the iconic sculpture The Thinker, as well as beautiful roses and a spectacular view of the dome of Invalides. The hôtel particulier was a space where Rodin actually sculpted and created. Stuffed full of history and art, all in the heart of the 7th arrondissement.

Find more in the 7th arrondissement.

9. The tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte - OVERRATED

The complex of the hôtel des Invalides with the museum and the cathedral is beautiful and interesting. Although, as far as Marie is concerned, the actual area where Napoleon’s remains are buried is cold and quite impersonal. Without many references to the man himself, the tomb of Napoleon is a bit of a let down.

Find more in the 7th arrondissement.

10. Musée de Cluny - UNDERRATED

The Musée de Cluny is dedicated to the medieval history of Paris and a visit here plunges you right into ancient history. Originally a series Roman baths which have been well-preserved, the museum is primarily contained within a 16th century abbey. Its main attraction, The Lady and the Unicorn, might not initially pique your interest, but its history, attention to detail and craftsmanship will take your breath away.

Find more in the 5th arrondissement.

That’s it for this week, folks. Thanks for listening and reading. And if you’re interested in seeing any of the things above, remember you can book My Private Paris for a private walking tour and their top-rated guides can take you anywhere.

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