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

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

3èME ARRONDISSEMENT. In 1923, Picasso made Paris his home, creating his most memorable and lasting works here. After his death in 1973, his family ­ faced with an astronomical tax debt ­ donated more than 3,288 works from his estate, including his own private collection of contemporary art. Displayed in chronological order in the elegant, restored Hôtel Salé, the works make an informative statement of creativity, continuity, and genius. They also give credence to his famous motto, "I do not seek, I find." METRO: Saint-Paul, Chemin-Vert, Filles du Calvaire

7èME ARRONDISSEMENT. Originally a mammoth iron-and-glass railway station, this museum premiered as an arts complex in 1900. Many visitors consider it to be the most viewer-friendly museum in the world. The museum's holdings date from 1848 through World War I, and three floors of the cavernous, modern landmark showcase applied arts from the Impressionist and Post-Impressionist periods. METRO: Solférino (line 12)