The Eiffel Tower, Paris' most iconic landmark, is the most-visited paid monument in the world. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World Fair, at 324 meters (1,063 ft) the wrought iron lattice tower is the second tallest structure in France. Its construction was initially met with criticism, and some Parisians even considered it an eye sore, but today it stands as a beloved French icon. The tower is composed of three levels that can be reached by visitors. The first and second levels house restaurants, while the third and tallest level offers jaw-dropping views of la belle Paris in all its glory. Â

Climbing the stairwell to the top of this masterpiece is well worth the effort for the spectacular view. Construction of this great Gothic cathedral began in 1163 and was largely completed by 1212. The rebuilding of the two transept gates in 1270 marked its completion. The west face is adorned with three richly decorated doorways and crowned with two 69-meter (226-feet) tall towers. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris houses some of Catholicism's most famous relics, including a piece of the Holy Cross and the purported Crown of Thorns. The cathedral has figured in many works of fiction, including Victor Hugo's classic The Hunchback of Notre Dame.

In 1810, the Montrouge stone quarries became catacombs. Because of a lack of space in the graveyards of Paris, it is here, 20 meters (65 feet) underground, that the remains of six million Parisians are exhibited. These ossuaries, illustrated by texts, create a chilling atmosphere and describe some of the events in the history of Paris, giving visitors substance for meditation. During World War II, this network of galleries was used as a hideaway for the Résistance movement; its vastness and the discretion of its entrances were great assets indeed. Today, these subterranean passages allow visitors to explore the true underground of Paris; a must-visit!

La Gaîté Lyrique is situated where the former Théâtre de la Gaîté was and has combined the original theater's facade, foyer and entrance into its new existence. This contemporary music and digital arts center opened in 2010. La Gaîté Lyrique is a seven storied building with the first five available to the public while the last two are private, including artisan shops. This huge space has three performance venues, various exhibition spaces, a resource center, video gaming area and artist rooms. Majority of these areas are adaptable and movable such as the dressing rooms and offices. You'll find concerts, lectures, films and lectures at La Gaîté Lyrique.

The Louvre Museum houses one of the largest collections of artwork and antiquities in the world. The museum is located inside the Louvre Palace, which was constructed in the 12th-Century as a fortress Philip II. After Louis XIV decided to move his court to Versailles, the palace was occupied by a variety of institutions related to the arts. The museum was first opened under the National Assembly in 1793. The establishment is separated into sections, including drawing, painting and sculpture, and houses antiquities from Egypt, Rome, Greece, and several other cultures. Visitors to the museum can explore its many wings and see famous works like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Liberty Leading the People.