DK Travel : Paris

From Notre-Dame to the Eiffel Tower, Paris holds some of the world's most famous sights and these highlights should be top of the list for any first-time visitor. With the exception of the overtly modern Pompidou Centre, they have been landmarks of this elegant and romantic capital for centuries and remain awe-inspiring sights, no matter how often you visit the city.

More on guided tours in Paris

Conciergerie

Originally home to the caretaker and guards of the Palais de Justice, the Conciergerie was turned into a jail at the end of the 14th century. It took its place in history during the Revolution, when more than 4,000 citizens (including Marie-Antoinette) were held prisoner here, half of whom were guillotined. It remained a prison until 1914.
Conciergerie

This imposing Gothic palace, built by Philippe le Bel (the Fair) in 1301–15, has a rich history. Parts of it were turned into a prison, controlled by the concierge, or keeper of the king’s mansion, hence the name. Ravaillac, assassin of Henri IV, was tortured here, but it was during the Revolution that the prison became a place of terror, when thousands were held here awaiting execution at the guillotine. Today you can see the Salle des Gardes and the magnificent vaulted Salle des Gens d’rmes (Hall of the Men-at Arms), the medieval kitchens, torture chamber, the Bonbec tower, and the prison. The cell where Marie-Antoinette was held and the history of other famous Revolution prisoners is on display. Outside, look for the square Tour de l’Horloge, erected in 1370, which houses the city’s first public clock, still ticking away.
Coolin

An Irish bar that doesn’t try too hard. Appeals to drinkers, talkers and listeners of all ages, who like their draught Guinness with a blarney chaser.
Crazy Horse Saloon

More risqué than the other big-name cabaret shows, the Saloon has a reputation for putting on the most professional as well as the sexiest productions. Striptease features, along with glamorous dancing girls and other cabaret acts. The computer-controlled lighting effects are spectacular.
Crypte Archéologique

Fascinating remnants of early Paris dating back to Gallo-Roman times were discovered in 1965 during an excavation of the square in front of Notre-Dame in order to build an underground car park. The archaeological crypt displays parts of 3rd-century Roman walls, rooms heated by hypocaust, as well as remains of medieval streets and foundations. The scale models showing the evolution of the city from its origins as a Celtic settlement are particularly interesting.
Cycling

Head for the Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes to escape the Paris traffic, or join a guided tour.
C’melot

The bargain five-course menu is fixed, except for your choice of dessert, so whatever the chef buys, you eat. Don’t be put off – the food is always superb and the candlelit atmosphere warmly relaxing.
Debauve & Gallais

This shop dates from 1800 when chocolate was sold for medicinal purposes. The window displays would tempt anyone.
Dehillerin

Since 1820, everyone from army cooks to gourmet chefs has come to this shop for copper pots, cast-iron pans and cooking utensils.
Délices

One of the best bakers in the Marais, almost worth having a picnic just as an excuse to try the croissants, baguettes and the cake-like walnut bread.