4èME ARRONDISSEMENT. This modern building ­ with its color-coded mechanical systems highly visible on the exterior ­ has architects debating its merits and tourists enamored of its style and contents. Displays highlight the development of Parisian art from the 18th century to the present and include works by Matisse, Chagall, and Picasso. Located onsite, too, are the National Museum of Modern Art, the Center of Industrial Design, the Contemporary Music Institute, a Library, the Brancusi Studio, and the Centre Wallonie-Bruxelles. Shows, exhibitions, and rotating exhibits are also available. METRO: Rambuteau, Hôtel de Ville, Châtelet

LA DEFENSE. Designed as a latter-day Arc de Triomphe, this enormous structure of glass, concrete, and marble marked the bicentennial of the French Revolution in 1989. Housing exhibition space and government offices, it also affords amazing views of Paris. As a gauge of its size, the cathedral of Notre-Dame (and its spire) could fit within the arch's walls. Elevators rise to the top, making great views an easy prospect. Atop the arch is a gallery that presents occasional exhibitions. METRO: Esplanade de la Défense

8èME ARRONDISSEMENT. This symbol of French victory was commissioned by Napoleon and completed in 1836. Adorned with sculpture and the names of military successes, the enormous arch features a small museum and rooftop viewing platform. At its base is the tomb of the unknown soldier. The arch sits at the center of place Charles de Gaulle (formerly place d'Etoile), a square that branches off into twelve avenues. It also offers great views southeast down the Champs-Elysées to the Louvre and northwest towards La Défense. Pedestrian access is most safely gained via the pedestrian tunnel from the north side of the Champs Elysées. METRO: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile

1ER ARRONDISSEMENT. In the La Samaritaine department store (store 2), the top floor offers a lookout balcony with a beautiful view of Paris! A café is available if you'd like to take a shopping break and have a drink while you enjoy the view!

7èME ARRONDISSEMENT. One of the world's most popular and well-known sites, this tower is not only a must-see for visitors but Paris's signature landmark. Although the structure was poorly received when it premiered, it's now a symbol of great civic and national pride. In fact, visitors must often wait in line before taking the elevator to the observation deck and seeing the city spread out below. At night, the tower becomes a beautifully illuminated sculpture. Gustave Eiffel, who designed the tower, also created the framework for NYC's Statue of Liberty. METRO: Bir Hakeim