As one of the most iconic cities in the world, Paris has the power to elicit mental images from travelers who have never even set foot in France. While some picture the shining lights of the Moulin Rouge, the Mona Lisa hanging in the Louvre or the Roman-style Arc de Triomphe, almost everyone can imagine the famous Eiffel Tower rising above the Parisian skyline.

The City of Light may have more well-known landmarks than any other urban center on the planet – and visitors want to see them all – but the Eiffel Tower is usually at the top of the list.

Although it may have taken French engineer Gustave Eiffel two years to create the monument for the 1889 World Exhibition, his efforts were well worth it, as his Eiffel Tower has emerged as one of the most classic and timeless images of Paris. While travelers can book guided tours of the iconic landmark, many opt instead for an elevator ride to the top floor where, from 1,000 feet in the air, they can take in one of the most romantic views of the city.

While the Eiffel Tower offers a public glimpse into Paris’ history, some of its best artifacts are stored in its famous museums. From the 19th-centuty paintings at the Musée d’Orsay to the modern art at the Centre Pompidou, Paris is home to some of the globe’s most beloved works of art. Still, the most famous museum in the city is the Musée du Louvre, which houses more than 300,000 paintings and other works of art, including Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

No trip to Paris would be complete without a day of shopping. As one of the fashion capitals of the world, the City of Light certainly does not disappoint in this area. While the city is filled with elegant boutiques and gourmet food shops, true fashion lovers head to Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton and Hermès.

Escape the hustle and bustle of Paris’ museums and stores with a respite in any one of the city’s romantic parks. One of the quietest places to while away a Parisian afternoon is Palais Royal , the former home of Cardinal Richelieu. Here, visitors bask in the sunshine among the marble statues, showering fountains and flowering gardens. Travelers can also enjoy Paris’ beautiful scenery at Jardin des Tuileries, Parc de la Villette, Jardin des Plantes and Parc Monceau.

The list of famous landmarks in Paris is seemingly endless, so some visitors choose to live in the moment with an unscripted stroll along the Seine, stopping to browse antique postcards or sip café au lait at a sidewalk café. By doing so, they may miss some of the city’s most iconic sites, but they experience the natural rhythm of the City of Light.

For more information, contact the Paris Convention and Visitors Bureau.