EIFFEL TOWER
You haven't been to Paris until you've been to the top of the Eiffel Tower. For the best view of the tower, walk up to it through the Champ-de-Mars gardens. Go early or later in the day when it's not so crowded. Take the elevator to the top for the most panoramic views of Paris.
CHAMPS-ELYSÉES
Best time to walk along this famous boulevard is after dark, when everything comes alive. Worst time is during rush hour. Walk from one end (Arc de Triomphe) to the Egyptian obelisk (the oldest man-made object in Paris) at the other end (Place de la Concorde).
ARC DE TRIOMPHE
Beautiful monument, especially at night. Go to the top observation deck for great views of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and Sacre-Coeur. Rush hour offers the best view of the busiest traffic hub in Paris.
THE LOUVRE MUSEUM
Save hours waiting in line by entering through the underground shopping mall. Look for the steps going down to Carrousel du Louvre (located on each side of the arch) before the main pyramid entrance. The Louvre houses some of the greatest art and sculpture in the world, including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
SACRE-COEUR
This beautiful white-domed church is a prominent part of the Paris skyline. Its steps provide a great vantage point for spectacular city views. Take the nearby silver tram (by the steps) down to Place St. Pierre (full of fun little shops and cafes) or walk to Montmartre's famous artists square.
MONMARTE
Filled with street artists and cafes, this bustling artists square is like stepping into a Toulouse-Lautrec painting. Great place for hanging out, having a beer or glass of wine and people watching. Also, the food is excellent.
NOTRE DAME CATHEDRAL
Notre Dame's grand architecture is even more beautiful outside, especially during sunset. Be sure to walk through the garden behind the cathedral and cross over the bridge to Ile St. Louis. Great for photographs.
RIVER SEINE CRUISES
The River Seine runs through Paris, dividing it into two parts: The Left Bank and the Right Bank. A great way to see Paris is by taking a Bateaux-Mouches cruise along the River Seine. You'll get terrific views of Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower.
