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

7èME ARRONDISSEMENT. This gorgeous architectural gem, completed in the 17th century, is located in the city's Faubourg-St-Germain region. It was created by Louis XIV as a home for aged soldiers and disabled veterans. Among its prominent features are a sweeping esplanade, a series of gardens, and a striking domed church, where military heroes (including Napoléon I) are interred. Also at this location is the Musée de l'Armée, an outstanding art and military history museum, with extensive armament collections. METRO: Invalides, Latour Maubourg

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

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

7èME ARRONDISSEMENT. This museum, set in the Hôtel Biron, is a tribute to one of the world's finest sculptors. Thanks to Rodin's own donations, the facility offers a wealth of objects, including terra cotta, bronze and marble creations. Plaster and wax studies are available as well, along with his sketches, drawings, engravings, and his own collected art. Among the items on display are "The Hand of God" and the sculpture that brought Rodin the most fame, a nude of St. John the Baptist. METRO: (line 13) Varenne, Invalides or Saint-François-Xavier