3èME ARRONDISSEMENT. With exhibits highlighting Paris from its beginnings to the present day, this museum has a broad historical range. A variety of collections includes memorabilia from the French Revolution, archaeological treasures, paintings, sculpture and rare furniture. Museum holdings are housed in the spectacular "Carnavalet" and "Pelletier de Saint-Fargeau" mansions, which have been restored to period authenticity (15th to 19th centuries). METRO: Saint-Paul (line 1), Chemin-Vert (line 8)

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

19èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Occupying the site of a former slaughterhouse, this museum of science and technology acts with a more benign hand these days. The incredible site includes a metallic sphere, an artificial river, and light-filled greenhouses. Exhibits run the gamut of scientific exploration, touching on medicine, technology, industry, space, botany and more. An interactive children's area even lets young folks make their own discoveries about the physical world through play and experimentation. Great for the entire family. METRO: Porte de la Villette (line 7)

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

4èME ARRONDISSEMENT. This museum, located in a restored 1706 mansion, features classical architecture in its façade, ironwork, and impressive central staircase. Original period prints, retrospective exhibits, and more than 12,000 rare books number among the attractions. There's also a conservation and restoration area, as well as a café in the 18th-century basement.