Palais de Tokyo (Tokyo Palace), Paris

The Tokyo Palace, originally designed for the 1937 International Exposition of Art and Technology in Modern Life, stands as a beacon for some of the most vibrant exhibitions in the city. Its stripped-down, shell-like interior offers an ideal backdrop for avant-garde contemporary art. Here, there is no permanent collection to speak of; instead, the venue showcases cutting-edge temporary shows in a cavernous space that evokes the atmosphere of a light-filled industrial loft. The programming extends to performances, concerts, readings, and fashion shows, adding to the place's dynamism and appeal.

The chic Bambini trattoria and cocktail bar within the premises, which serves authentic Italian cuisine and scrumptious Neapolitan-style pizzas, is a popular destination for locals, particularly for its cocktails, dinner, and late-night snacks, thanks to its delightful wraparound terrace and breathtaking Eiffel Tower views. If you're in the mood for a quick bite or a glass of wine or coffee, there's also a small café area at the entrance of the restaurant.

And if you're on the lookout for some colourful souvenirs that are as edgy as the palace's exhibits, do make sure to stop by its fabulous art- and design-focused bookshop.