The 20 things you must do in Paris

You could spend hours wandering through Paris, but the city of light glows brightest on the Seine. The river that runs through town passes by some of the city's most iconic sights. On the walk, you can pass by the Louvre, Museum D'Orsay, the carnival, and Jardin des Tuileries. It's the perfect way to see Paris.

Of course, if you're in Paris, you must see the Eiffel Tower. Skipping it would be like skipping the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Pisa. It's one of the most famous man-made structures in the world, built for a temporary exhibition in 1898 and standing gallantly ever since. You've seen it in movies, on TV, and on postcards, and now you should see it for yourself. 

The Lourve is cool, but do you really want to feel like you're crammed in the world's largest subway car? There's no space to move, people smell, and someone definitely doesn't realize their headphones aren't connected to their phone. Try viewing Renoir to the sound of a beat drop. For a quieter museum, check out the equally impressive D' Orsay, which boasts just as many iconic pieces with far fewer crowds. 

Do you like hot chocolate? Who doesn't? Cafe Flor boasts perhaps the world's greatest hot chocolate, served with chocolate that is so tasty it warms the soul. The place itself is pretty neat too, decorated with all the trappings of a postcard cafe.

Yeah, yeah. I was just throwing shade at the Louvre, but there aren't many museums out there with more iconic works. Boasting over 35,000 pieces, the underground structure is home to more than just the mean mugging woman; it also houses many other iconic paintings. Just know that the crowds here make Disneyland look empty.

A war memorial for the ages, this structure commissioned by Napolean can be seen from miles away. The intricate design, however, should be viewed up close from the roundabout, where you can see some of the craziest driving in the world. In fact, locals have to pay more for insurance if they want to brave the roundabout, where the lanes are as nonexistent as Parisian courtesy.

Every city should have a quiet escape from the noise. Paris has several of them, including parks where locals can unwind with their baguettes under a row of sun-dappled trees. Jardin des Tuileries is one such spot, making it the perfect place to explore after a day of browsing museums.

Paris is one of the food capitals of the world. Along with Tokyo and Italy, it boasts more delectable restaurants than just about anywhere. But where does one start? Choosing just a handful of restaurants is like choosing just a handful of candies--what about the rest of them? The way most people go is a food tour, but we recommend you make your tour by booking restaurants in advance and choosing options that adhere to your price range. 

Remember how we said Paris was known for its food? Well it's equally known for its art, with more museums than most towns have restaurants. Museums are like the Starbucks of Paris--they are on every block--and there are countless masterpieces in each of the major galleries. But make sure you check for exhibitions as well, since you may get to have pieces from major artists all to yourself--in quiet rooms where the paintings can speak to you as if whispering in your ear.

This ain't your grandma's shopping mall. This modern slice of opulence is home to designer brands, chic foods, and latticed glasswork ceilings. Your eyes won't know where to look, but those on a budget might want to look elsewhere for clothes. 

A mass for the masses. Notre Dame Cathedral has become a tourist destination over the years, and while it's currently under renovation because of the fire, it remains an astounding piece of architecture.

New Year's on the Champs Elysees is something to behold. As thousands pack into the street, a concert plays in front of the Arc de Triomphe while people dance in the road while waiting for the eventual countdown, which includes a colorful fireworks show. Not here on New Year's Eve? Walk down the Champs for one of the most iconic shopping destinations around.

The building is every bit as chic as a Louis Vuitton bag. Built like a spaceship with reflecting panels, the Louis mother ship is packed with rotating exhibitions of fashion, painting, and installations. There's usually something to see when you visit.

Paris's wine is some of the best around, much of which is shipped from the nearby region of Provence. At night, locals pack the bars surrounding the tourist destinations, enjoying a glass in the retro bars in winter or on the promenades in summer.

Look up luxury in the dictionary, and there may be a picture of Palais Garnier. Located at the Place de I'Opera, this is the kind of theater you think of when you think of opera. Lavished with chic balconies and marble staircases that lead to more incredible marble staircases, Palail is a truly operatic opera house.

You can walk around Paris quite easily, but you can also bike around Paris. If you can brave the traffic, you can reach some of the more local spots that few tourists see. There are so many unique places around town, each with its own flavor of architecture and food.

On a bike, you could visit Place des Vosges, a cute little space surrounded by red buildings. The city's oldest park is surrounded by cafes and filled with families enjoying the greenery. 

You might walk by the Pompidou and think, why is there a factory in the middle of the city? But inside the building are works of art from the country's most famous modernists. And even if modernism isn't your thing, the view from the top is truly breathtaking. Plus, it's free!

Markets are one of the many things that make Paris Paris. Almost any movie set in the city has a bustling market in the background. It's how locals buy their produce and tourists plan their mornings. For one of the most famous markets, check out Mach d'Aligre for fresh produce, meats, and trinkets.

Paris is a bustling city with a lot going on. Unlike, say, Florence or other towns in Italy, where part of the appeal is relaxation, this is a town where part of the appeal is the constant energy. There's always something people are rushing to see. But there are moments when you want to take a deep breath and relax. Moments where you want to enjoy a baguette, nature, and quiet. For that, head to one of the city's wonderful parks.