Centermost of all the Paris city parks, the Tuileries Garden forms part of the triumphal axis (the so-called "Grand Axe") stretching from La Défense plaza all the way to the Louvre. The garden is almost totally flat and has a circular fountain in the middle, which is most popular in summer.

Originally, this Italian Renaissance-style garden was created for Queen Catherine de Médici, who in the 16th century began construction of a palace just outside the western walls of the capital. The garden took the name of the tile factories (called "tuileries") that it replaced. First opened to the public in 1667, it became fully accessible only after the French Revolution.

In 1789, following the fall of the Bastille, King Louis XVI and his wife, Marie Antoinette, moved into the Tuileries Palace as a publicity stunt to get "closer to the people". Sadly, this stunt eventually produced the undesired effect and resulted in the royal family being locked up in the palace under house arrest. Three years later, the palace came under attack in what proved to be the defining moment of the Revolution. The French monarchy was abolished, and quite radically so, with the help of the then newly-invented guillotine installed in the nearby Concorde Square. The last words of the king rising to the scaffold were: "Gentlemen, I am innocent of everything of which I am accused. I hope that my blood may cement the good fortune of the French."

In the 19th century, Napoleon merged the Tuileries with the Louvre in a bid to create one huge super-palace complex. The project was barely completed when the bloody uprising of the Paris Commune in 1871 saw the former royal Tuileries Palace set on fire and completely destroyed. But the palace garden survived and to date retains the general outline of its original master plan.

In the 1990s, the landscape was renewed as part of the Grand Louvre project. Now free to access, the park is an oasis of calm amid the bustle of Paris. At visitors' disposal are a good number of green chairs to sit on and enjoy ice cream or drinks, plus a pond with small rented boats, from which one can enjoy a marvelous view of the Eiffel Tower or simply unwind to the chirp of the local birds.

By far the most popular avenue in France, Champs-Élysées is a household name and has been described as the "most beautiful avenue in the whole world". Stretching for about two kilometers from Concorde Square to Charles de Gaulle Square, this major thoroughfare boasts exuberant shopping, luxurious dining, and world-class entertainment, not to mention some of the top photographic panoramas of the French capital.

Once a farmland, the area was made into a promenade in 1667, when it was designed as an extension of the Tuileries Garden. Originally called the "Grand Promenade," this wide boulevard lined with elm trees adopted its current name in 1709. The name “Champs-Élysées” is the French for the Elysian Fields, the resting place for dead heroes and blessed souls in Greek mythology.

Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the avenue saw significant expansions and renovations, becoming increasingly fashionable, flanked by noble properties such as the Élysée Palace, currently serving as the official residence of the Presidents of France. The Triumphal Arch, commissioned by Napoleon and finished in the 1830s, added grandeur to the area. During Napoleon III’s reign, it was redesigned in an English garden style, introducing winding paths and chestnut trees, while the Universal Expositions of 1855 and 1900 further transformed it, giving rise to the Grand and Small Palaces, now housing a bunch of art galleries.

Throughout French history, the avenue also has been a symbolic site of military parades celebrating victories like that in the First World War, in 1919, and the liberation of Paris in 1944. Once a year, it also sees the finish of the annual Tour de France cycling race.

As a staple destination for foodies, the avenue offers a choice of gourmet eateries fit to spoil even the most discerning gluttons. Among the places particularly noteworthy are: bistro Atelier Renault; Flora Danica – the Danish brasserie, renowned for its caviar; Fouquet's restaurant – aged over 100 years; the famous Ladurée tea room; as well as L'Alsace Bistro specializing, just as the name suggests, in the Alsace regional cuisine and open 24 hours a day.

Those craving entertainment will find it here, too, in rich supply. Cinema Gaumont, France's #1 screen for movie premiers; the world-famous cabaret Lido; the bar and club Montecristo; Le Queen nightclub with some of the top DJs in town, plus the Marigny Theatre are just some of the local entertainment options to consider.

Whatever the season, day or night, Champs-Élysées never fails to impress. And if you come around Christmas, you'll be in for a special treat!

A spot at the end of the Champs Elysées Avenue was always considered fit to accommodate some sort of a landmark monument. However, it wasn't until 1806 that Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte finally decreed that a triumphal arch, dedicated to the glory of his army, should be placed there. Napoleon's architectural projects made clear his desire to identify his regime with the glory of Imperial Rome, and this particular design was inspired by the Roman Arch of Titus.

The measure of Napoleon's audacious ambitions can be seen in the sheer size of the Triumphal Arch: a colossal 45 meters wide by 50 meters high, making it almost certainly the biggest triumphal arch in the world. Nowadays, the presence of The Great Arch of the Defense on the western horizon of Paris makes it hard to appreciate the Triumphal Arch's original impact on the cityscape. Back then, it was the most prominent and massive object for miles around – the hegemony retained until the construction of the Eiffel Tower in the 1880s.

Inevitably, the arch quickly became an object of national pride and subsequently the world-famous symbol of French patriotism. Built in the era when war was undoubtedly the "overriding argument of kings", the arch was intended primarily for triumphal entrances into Paris by victorious French troops. Napoleon himself had a chance to pass beneath its mock-up replica only once, in 1810, together with his bride Marie-Louise, the Archduchess of Austria. The other Napoleon – Napoleon III – was more fortunate in this respect, and was able to ride underneath the completed Arch of Triumph upon his ascending to the throne in 1852.

As for the proper victory march, the Triumphal Arch saw it for the first time only in 1919. The aftermath of World War I, however, shifted the French public interest away from war, and, since 1921, the arch has been solely the place of commemoration of the fallen soldiers. It has the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Flame of Remembrance.

Tip:
The roundabout encircling the Triumphal Arch is referred to by Parisians as "the Star" for the 12 avenues emanating from it. Climbing the stairs to the top of the arch, you will see the star-shaped pattern of the radiating streets and enjoy a panoramic view of the Champs-Élysées leading towards Concorde Square and the Louvre Museum in the distance.

Equally grand from whatever angle you look at it, whether just walking past or watching it from a distance, day or night, the Eiffel Tower lives up to its iconic status easily. The wrought-iron lattice structure on the Field of Mars in Paris was designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel and built between 1887 and 1889. Known locally as the "Iron Lady," it was the centerpiece of the 1889 World's Fair, celebrating the centennial of the French Revolution.

Illuminated by gas lamps at night, the tower was a major attraction from the very beginning, although not to everyone's taste. Before its construction even started, a group of prominent French artists and intellectuals, including writer Guy de Maupassant, condemned the tower as a "monstrous" and "useless" structure that would overshadow Paris' landmarks. By 1918, however, it had become an iconic symbol of Paris – and France – and since then has been one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

Standing at 330 meters (or 1,083 feet), the Eiffel Tower is the tallest structure in Paris. It has three levels for visitors, with restaurants on the first and second. The top level, at 276 meters (or 906 feet), offers the highest public observation deck in the European Union. Visitors can ascend via stairs or lift, with 600 steps required to reach the second level. The third level, typically accessed by lift, features a private apartment once used by Gustave Eiffel, where he hosted honorable guests like Thomas Edison.

In recognition of their contribution to the construction, the tower is engraved with the names of 72 French scientists, engineers, and mathematicians.

Unlike other high risers, the Eiffel Tower is there for visitors only. In Paris, where tall buildings are still in short supply, the bird's eye view from the top of the tower is truly unique and indeed breathtaking. In 2022, the tower welcomed nearly six million visitors, becoming the most visited paid monument globally.

The Eiffel Tower is painted in three shades: darker at the bottom, getting progressively lighter towards the top to complement the Parisian sky. Originally reddish brown, it changed the color to bronze, known as "Eiffel Tower Brown," in 1968. In what is expected to be a temporary change, the Eiffel Tower was painted gold in commemoration of the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris.

Tip:
Remember to bring along some warm clothes, because it can get much colder up there, especially when it's windy.
During the day, if it's hot, bring an umbrella, too, to get some shade, and lots of water.

Of all the beautiful bridges spanning the Seine in Paris, the Alexandre III Bridge is celebrated as the city's most ornate and extravagant. Built as part of the preparations for the 1900 World Exhibition, it epitomizes the architectural and artistic grandeur of the Belle Époque. The bridge connects the Champs-Élysées quarter to the areas near the Invalides complex and the Eiffel Tower. In recognition of its historical and cultural significance, it was declared a French historic monument in 1975.

Named after Tsar Alexander III of Russia, who solidified the Franco-Russian Alliance in 1892, the bridge features elaborate Beaux-Arts styling with Art Nouveau elements, including ornate lamps, cherubs, nymphs, and winged horses at both ends. This aesthetic continuity aligns with the Grand Palace across the river, emphasizing a cohesive visual narrative across the cityscape. The foundational stone was placed by Tsar Alexander's son, Nicholas II, in 1896, reinforcing the diplomatic symbolism the bridge carried.

A genuine feat of engineering for its time, showcasing a 6-meter-high single-span steel arch, it was designed to preserve unobstructed views along the Champs-Élysées and towards the Invalides, integrating the structure seamlessly with its surroundings.

Prominently, the bridge is adorned with statues by various sculptors, adding layers of artistic merit. Four gilt-bronze statues of Fames, resting on large masonry socles at each end of the bridge, symbolize different aspects of French culture and achievement. These include the Fame of the Sciences and the Fame of the Arts on the Right Bank and the Fame of Commerce and the Fame of Industry on the Left Bank, each flanked by corresponding figures representing different eras of France, from Charlemagne to Louis XIV to Contemporary France.

The piers and groynes supporting the lower part of the bridge are also impressive, especially for those who sail underneath it.

The center of the bridge features hammered copper nymph reliefs, commemorating the Franco-Russian Alliance, with one facing toward Paris and the other toward Imperial Russia. This symbolic decor is echoed in the Trinity Bridge in Saint Petersburg, also a Franco-Russian memorial, underscoring the deep cultural and political connections between the two countries.

Tip:
If you happen to be on the bridge at night, make sure to walk down the stairs and check out its underbelly for some truly amazing photos.
Also, look out for a small antiques market down there, along the riverfront, for some vintage fashion, excellent silver flatware, and knick-knacks of various sort.

The Louvre Museum, or simply the Louvre, is perhaps the most famous art museum in the world. Originally built as a fortress in the late 12th century, under King Philip II, it later transitioned into a royal residence under King Francis I, in 1546. The Louvre’s current palace structure developed through multiple expansions, although it ceased being a royal residence in 1682 when Louis XIV moved his household to Versailles.

In 1692, the Louvre became home to the Academy of Inscriptions and Fine Writing and the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, which held public exhibitions, or “salons,” marking its early transformation into a public cultural space. During the French Revolution, it was formally established as a museum by the National Assembly, with an initial exhibition of 537 works, mostly from royal and church collections. Following its brief closure due to structural concerns, the Louvre reopened and rapidly expanded its collection under Napoleon Bonaparte, who renamed it Napoleon Museum. Though many seized artworks had to be returned after Napoleon's fall, subsequent monarchs continued to add to the collection, and acquisitions continued through donations and bequests during the Third Republic (between 1870 and 1940).

Today, the Louvre’s collection comprises approximately 500,000 objects housed in over 72,000 square meters of space, with 35,000 pieces displayed at any given time. Divided into eight departments-ranging from Egyptian and Near Eastern Antiquities to Paintings and Islamic Art-the museum showcases everything from sculptures and ornamental works of art to paintings and archaeological artifacts from around the globe. Key masterpieces here include the "Venus de Milo," the "Winged Victory of Samothrace," "The Raft of the Medusa," and, famously, Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa." For many, the chance to see the Mona Lisa is the main reason for visiting.

Beyond the high-profile pieces, the Louvre's lesser-visited Sully and Richelieu wings reveal the full extent of its treasures. The Richelieu wing is particularly celebrated for its elegant design, glass-covered courtyards, and grand architecture. Its centerpiece is the Napoleon III apartments, adorned with immense chandeliers, red velvet, intricate moldings, and lavish gilded decor-a testament to the opulence that impresses all who enter.

With almost 9 million visitors in 2023, the Louvre remains the most-visited museum globally, surpassing even the Vatican Museums. For those planning to visit, advance ticket purchases are essential, and using the quieter Lions Gate helps ease entry. For a more serene experience, Friday afternoons, when the museum stays open late, are ideal. Once inside, a map is crucial for navigating the expansive galleries, allowing visitors to prioritize the exhibits that resonate most.

The Holy Chapel on the City Island in Paris is a stunning 13th-century example of Rayonnant Gothic architecture. Commissioned by King Louis IX who led the 7th and 8th Crusades to the Holy Land, it was designed as a grand reliquary to house sacred relics, such as the Crown of Thorns purportedly worn by Jesus himself, which Louis acquired in Constantinople.

This two-story chapel has an upper level with remarkable stained-glass windows, reserved for the royal family, while its lower level, adorned with floral designs, served palace courtiers and staff. The Holy Chapel was once part of the medieval City Palace, the former residence of French kings until the 14th century, alongside the neighboring Conciergerie, which later became a prison.

The chapel faced considerable damage over the centuries, particularly during the French Revolution when its sculptures were destroyed, royal emblems defaced, and interiors looted. By the 19th century, extensive restoration efforts were undertaken to revive its medieval charm. Skilled craftsmanship was applied to restore the chapel, making it a blend of medieval and 19th-century artistry. Miraculously, around two-thirds of the original stained glass survived, creating a captivating effect, especially when sunlight illuminates the intricate biblical scenes depicted in the windows.

Architecturally, the Holy Chapel is distinguished by its simplicity and harmony. Unlike many Gothic churches, it lacks flying buttresses, relying instead on deep buttresses and metal supports for stability. A rose window on the west front, added in the 15th century, features scenes of the Apocalypse, while a cedarwood spire captures the essence of Gothic style. The chapel was intended to symbolize Jerusalem, a vision of paradise for the saved at the Last Judgment.

Today, Holy Chapel remains a marvel of medieval design and an enduring symbol of King Louis IX’s devotion and legacy.

The Luxembourg Gardens embody everything that is charming, unique, and enchanting about Parisian parks. Its groomed trees, ironed-and-pressed walkways, and sculpted flower beds, not to mention the immaculate emerald lawns, are meant for admiring, not necessarily for lounging. As you wander along the tree- and bench-lined paths, you'll find a peaceful haven from the bustle of the surrounding neighborhoods: the Quartier Latin, St-Germain-des-Prés, and Montparnasse. During the winter months, the garden's austere beauty is captivating, but it truly comes alive in spring, as blooming beds of daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths emerge, and children nudge wooden sailboats across the circular pool. The park's northern boundary is graced by the Palais du Luxembourg, which houses the Sénat (Senate), one of two chambers of the Parliament.

The gardens were originally inspired by Queen Marie de Medici, who longed for the Boboli Gardens of her native Florence. The recently restored Fontaine de Medicis, a favorite spot in summer for contemplative readers, honors her memory. Meanwhile, Les Marionettes du Théâtre du Luxembourg is another timeless attraction, where classic guignols (marionette shows) can be enjoyed on weekend mornings and afternoons, as well as Wednesday afternoons. The park also boasts a merry-go-round, swings, and pony rides. On summer afternoons, the bandstand on the eastern side of the park hosts free concerts.

As you meander through the paths, you might be surprised to come across a familiar sight: one of the original (miniature) casts of the Statue of Liberty was installed in the gardens in 1906. There are over 100 other statues to admire as well. Don't miss the rotating photography exhibits hanging on the perimeter fence near the entrance on Boulevard St-Michel. And if you want to burn off some calories, there's a well-maintained trail around the perimeter that is popular among joggers.

Tip:
To ensure park rules are observed, gendarmes regularly patrol the grounds; guidelines posted on entry gates should be followed.

The Panthéon of Paris, originally conceived as a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, has evolved significantly since its inception. Constructed between 1758 and 1790, it was intended by King Louis XV to house the relics of Paris's patron saint. The structure stands on a historically rich site, previously home to Roman monuments, and underwent numerous transformations, most notably during the French Revolution when it was repurposed as a secular mausoleum.

The Panthéon was designed to combine the lightness of Gothic cathedrals with the classical grandeur admired in Italian architecture. The architecture of the Panthéon is a striking example of early Neoclassicism, dominated by a triple dome, each layer serving both aesthetic and structural purposes. The middle dome features a painted ceiling, while the outer stone-built dome, completed in 1790, was designed to rival the domes of major basilicas in Rome and London. Initially topped with a cross, the dome has seen various symbols over the years, reflective of France's turbulent history.

Inside, the Panthéon hosts the Apotheosis of Saint Genevieve, surrounded by important figures from French royal history and Christianity. Its peristyle and façade mimic a Greek temple, adorned with Corinthian columns and a pediment that celebrates national gratitude towards illustrious figures, reinstated post-Revolution to honor France's great men and women.

The Panthéon also served as the site for Léon Foucault's famous demonstration of the Earth's rotation in 1851, using a pendulum suspended from the central dome-a copy of which remains on display today.

Throughout its history, the Panthéon's role has shifted between religious and national significance. During its time as the revolutionary "Temple of the Nation", it housed the remains of prominent French figures such as Voltaire and Rousseau. Declared a mausoleum for "National Heroes" in the 19th century, other notables like Victor Hugo and Marie Curie found their final resting place here. More recent additions included French resistance heroes, recognizing their roles in World War II.

Today, the Panthéon is a monument to France's past but also a symbol of its enduring values, reflecting the nation's historical journey and its commitment to honoring those who have shaped its cultural and political landscape.

While the Eiffel Tower is an instantly recognizable symbol of France, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is an unmistakable symbol of Paris. Notre-Dame de Paris, or "Our Lady of Paris," is a medieval Catholic church renowned for its French Gothic appearance. Among other features, this cathedral showcases period architectural innovations such as the rib vault and flying buttress, as well as large rose windows and rich sculptural decoration. Notre-Dame’s architectural and historical significance is underscored by its vast pipe organs, iconic bells, and its role in hosting significant ceremonies like Napoleon’s coronation, the celebration of the Liberation of Paris in 1944, and the funerals of presidents Charles de Gaulle and François Mitterrand.

Before Notre-Dame, a temple to Jupiter and later a cathedral dedicated to Saint Étienne occupied the site. Construction of Notre-Dame began in 1163 and concluded in 1260, incorporating architectural advancements in four major stages, with additions in the 13th century enhancing stability and light. At the time of its construction, it was the most ambitious cathedral project ever undertaken in France, its vaults rising over 33 meters and holding a national height record for several decades.

In 1431, Notre-Dame saw the coronation of King Henry VI, and during the French Revolution, suffered vandalism when it was repurposed as a warehouse. In the 19th century, Victor Hugo’s novel, The Hunchback of Notre-Dame, spurred its restoration, largely preserving Notre-Dame’s legacy.

Amid the Second World War, upon the Fall of France, there were fears that the German invaders might destroy the freshly renovated stained glass of the rose window. As a result, the lion's portion of it was hidden and re-installed only after the war.

In 2019, a fire severely damaged the cathedral's oak roof and spire. Firefighters saved much of the building, including the world's biggest 13th-century glass window and other artifacts and relics which were temporarily removed for safety. Though many decorations have been removed over time, the cathedral retains Gothic, Baroque, and 19th-century sculptures, altarpieces, and revered relics, including the Crown of Thorns and fragments from the True Cross.

As a symbol of Paris and France, Notre-Dame is renowned for its traditional Lent sermons since the 1830s and attracts annually around 12 million visitors.

Vosges Square is the oldest planned square in Paris. Originally known as Royal Square, it was built from 1605 to 1612 under King Henri IV on the site of the complex of buildings demolished by Catherine de' Medici.

This 140-by-140-meter square was among Europe’s earliest examples of royal city planning, inspiring similar urban designs in cities across the continent. The square’s perfectly symmetrical layout features uniformly styled red brick facades with stone accents, vaulted arcades, and blue slate roofs with dormers. Of special note are the balconies, the first extended ones ever built in Paris. The northern and southern facades rise higher, with the so-called Pavilion of the King and Pavilion of the Queen marked by triple arches. Though no monarch resided there permanently, Anne of Austria briefly stayed in the Queen's Pavilion.

Originally celebrated with a grand event for the engagement of Louis XIII and Anne of Austria, Vosges Square became a prototype for aristocratic urban planning and was an elite address for Parisian nobility in the 17th and 18th centuries. Its reputation as a meeting place for the aristocracy continued until the French Revolution, after which the nobility largely relocated to the Faubourg Saint-Germain district.

The square’s name changed several times. During the French Revolution, it was briefly renamed “Weapons Manufacturing Square” and, in 1800, became Vosges Square in recognition of the Vosges department, the first to pay taxes supporting the Revolutionary army. Restoration of monarchs temporarily returned it to its original name, and in 1830 it briefly became “Republic Square”. Since 1870, the revolutionary name “Vosges Square” has remained.

Today, the square represents a well-manicured park with mature lindens and grass, surrounded by trimmed, shady trees, refreshing fountains, and sandy walkways. Boxed in by upscale properties, this elegant 17th-century garden is a bit of a hidden gem invisible to the outsiders. But locals know it all too well and gather here regularly on weekends, especially in summer.

Once home to notable figures like Victor Hugo, whose preserved residence is now a museum, the area’s allure is tied to its heritage. Ground floors house art shops, boutiques, and bohemian-style bars, offering a relaxed setting for a quick snack or drink. Diverse dining options, including kosher and ethnic cuisines, add to the charm, making it a favorite for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and casual visitors alike.

Embark upon a delightful promenade within this hallowed and prestigious necropolis regarded as the most frequented of its kind across the globe, to encounter a captivating assemblage of classical and unconventional mausoleums.

The foremost communal cemetery established in Paris, originating in 1804, bears the name of Father (‘Père’) François de la Chaise, who resided in the chapel on the premises, catering to the confessions of Louis XI. On the behest of Napoleon I, architect Alexandre-Théodore Brogniart fashioned an English garden-style burial ground that showcases a plethora of greenery.

Despite the lack of interest in the cemetery's early days, the inclusion of renowned individuals such as Jean de La Fontaine and Molière, eventually elevated its status as a fashionable destination. Presently, it is the final resting place of an illustrious roster of personalities including Balzac, Chopin, Jim Morrison, Marcel Proust, Sarah Bernhardt, Marcel Marceau, Théodore Géricault, and Oscar Wilde (whose tomb sculpture crafted by Jacob Epstein, is adorned with amorous imprints left by devotees in the form of lipstick smooches).

Strolling through the vast and undulating terrain never fails to evoke a reflective and tranquil experience.

Why You Should Visit:
The emphasis here is not so much on death as it is on beholding the remarkable craftsmanship that is embedded in each and every memorial and monument. And let us not forget the individuals interred within the grounds...

Tips:
While entrance is free, a map is indispensable to locate the noteworthy, notorious, and intriguing graves (available for purchase at a modest price). For those who seek a deeper understanding of the cemetery's history and significance, guided tours are also on offer. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the cemetery can be an extensive endeavor.

The Basilica of the Sacred Heart of Montmartre is a Catholic church and a national historic monument since 2022. The imposing structure sits atop the Montmartre summit – the highest point in Paris (some 200 meters above the Seine). It offers a breathtaking panorama of the city from its dome, which makes it the second most-visited tourist site in the capital after the Eiffel Tower.

The idea to build the basilica came in the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871 (resulting in a humiliating defeat for France), followed by the brief and bloody Paris Commune period. Many in France, particularly conservative Catholics, viewed these events as moral failures of the nation. They believed it was a divine punishment for what they saw as the growing secularization and moral decay of French society in the decades following the French Revolution.

The new church was thus to symbolize national repentance. Its location at the highest point in Paris, however, made it a subject of controversy among left-wing politicians, as it overlooks the area where the Paris Commune erupted and was seen by some as a monument to conservative reactionism.

The construction spanned from 1875 to 1914 under the supervision of various architects. The basilica's consecration was delayed until the end of World War I, in 1919.

The building showcases a blend of Neo-Byzantine and Romanesque styles with a central rotunda, a nave, and transepts. The main dome rises 83 meters, flanked by four smaller cupolas and a bell tower that houses France’s largest bell, the Savoyarde. The rectangular base beneath the high dome is supported by massive columns as if bridging the celestial and terrestrial realms. The design incorporates a Greek cross layout centralizing the altar, surrounded by a Latin-influenced choir and ambulatory.

Artistic elements within the basilica include the grand 475-square-meter mosaic of The Triumph of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and various chapels adorned by specific professional groups, enhancing the spiritual ambiance with their thematic decorations. The crypt, unlike typical underground crypts, features stained glass windows that allow light to filter in, enriching the spiritual atmosphere. Also noteworthy is the basilica’s historic organ, recognized as a national landmark.

As a pilgrimage site, the basilica requires visitors to observe modest dress and silence out of respect for its sacredness and historical significance.

Tip:
You will need a level of fitness to climb the stairs from the base of Montmartre to the Sacred Heart Basilica. Alternatively, you can hop on the free mini-train which starts from opposite the Windmill Theater and stops behind the basilica.

Moulin Rouge in Montmartre opened in 1889, the same year as the Eiffel Tower was built. Aimed primarily at wealthy patrons, it was designed as a lavish garden café-concert where diverse social groups could mingle. Since its opening, the venue offered world-class entertainment, becoming a meeting place for Parisians and visitors from all walks of life. The elegant cabaret attracted the uber-rich, socialites, middle class, artists, and foreign visitors who rubbed shoulders and enjoyed themselves.

Over the years, Moulin Rouge has hosted numerous celebrities and royal guests. In 1890, the Prince of Wales, the future King Edward VII, visited here to witness the new and riveting Can-can dance. A year later, artist Toulouse-Lautrec created his first poster for Moulin Rouge. Sadly, in 1915, the place burned down and had to be rebuilt in 1921. Another intensive renovation, in 1951, produced its current decor.

In 1979, Ginger Rogers graced the cabaret's stage for its 90th anniversary, while Queen Elizabeth II attended a private show in 1981. Other members of the British royal family who have visited Moulin Rouge include Prince Charles (now King Charles III) and Princess Diana, Prince Edward, and Princess Anne. World-known celebrities such as Liza Minnelli, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra also took part in special events here. Its centenary celebration featured a star-studded gala with Lauren Bacall, Ella Fitzgerald, and Jerry Lewis.

Over the years, Moulin Rouge has been featured in countless books, plays, and films. The 2001 movie "Moulin Rouge!", directed by Baz Luhrmann, re-popularized this vibrant and one-of-a-kind venue.

Today, visitors can book a table, savor dinner and champagne, and experience firsthand the magic of what has been the center of Parisian nightlife for over 130 years.

Tip:
Visit at sunset for photos of Moulin Rouge's iconic windmill and neon signs lit up against the backdrop of a darkening sky.

The Palais Garnier, also known as the Opéra Garnier or the Paris Opera, is a grand 19th-century building designed by architect Charles Garnier and inaugurated in 1875. Having served as the principal venue for the Paris Opera until the opening of the Opéra Bastille in 1989, it continues to be used for ballet performances and concerts.

The structure is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a grand façade with elaborate sculptures, bronze busts of famous composers, and a stunning rotunda adorned with a multi-colored mosaic. The interior is equally impressive, with a grand marble staircase, a massive chandelier weighing over six tons, and a spectacular auditorium decorated with frescoes and a ceiling painted by Marc Chagall.

One interesting historical curiosity about the Palais Garnier is its association with the Phantom of the Opera. This legend inspired Gaston Leroux's famous novel, which was later adapted into a musical. According to the legend, a mysterious figure called the Phantom haunted the opera house's underground tunnels and caused chaos in the theater. Although the story is fictional, the Palais Garnier's underground lake and maze-like passages do exist and can be visited on a guided tour.

Another curiosity of the palace is the grand foyer, a lavish space designed for the elite of Parisian society to see and be seen during intermissions, which features opulent decorations, including a ceiling painted by Paul-Jacques-Aimé Baudry and sculptures by Carpeaux and Jean-Baptiste Klagmann. The grand foyer has been meticulously restored, and visitors can admire its beauty during guided tours.

Overall, a must-visit destination for architecture and history buffs, music and theater lovers, and anyone looking to experience the grandeur and beauty of one of Paris's most iconic landmarks.

Tip:
If you only possess a mild acquaintance with the opera genre but aspire to experience its glory, Palais Garnier emerges as a suitable destination. The edifice is an ideal venue to witness a classic Italian opera, such as the legendary creations of Verdi or Puccini, which usually span for around 3.5 hours, including intervals, and have great music you might recognize. The website provides comprehensive information on the duration of each performance.
A self-guided tour of the palace is also feasible, or alternatively, a guided tour is available that encompasses access to places off-limits to solo explorers and confers a deeper insight into the history of the palace and opera.