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Some six million visitors a year ascend to the top of this most famous Paris landmark for the spectacular views. It was erected for the Universal Exhibition of 1889.

This great Gothic cathedral, founded on the site of a Roman temple, was completed in 1334 and is a repository of French art and history. It also represents the geographical heart of France.

Called “a gateway to heaven”, this splendid medieval church was built to house the relics collected by St Louis on his many Crusades.

One of the city’s top children’s attractions, with activities for all ages. The Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, a high-tech hands-on science museum, gets star billing, while the Cité des Enfants is a science and nature museum for younger children. Kids also love the Argonaute, a naval museum with a real submarine, the Géode with its IMAX screen and the Cité de la Musique, with musical activities for young people.

With its majestic arches and pillars, St-Eustache is one of the most beautiful churches in Paris. Although Gothic in design, it took 105 years to build (1532–1637) and its interior decoration reflects the Renaissance style that blossomed during this time. The church was modelled on Notre-Dame, with double side aisles and a ring of side chapels. The stained-glass windows made from sketches by Philippe de Champaigne (1631) and the ornate tomb of politician Jean-Baptiste Colbert (1619–83) are highlights. Don’t miss the naive sculpture in Chapelle St-Joseph which recalls Les Halles’ market days.

One of the oldest street markets in Paris winds downhill through the Latin Quarter every Tuesday to Sunday morning. Although this formerly cheap and Bohemian market has been discovered as a tourist spot, it retains its charm, the narrow street lined with colourful food stalls and speciality shops. There are also good restaurants in the quieter side streets.