Paris

Paris needs no introduction, but it does need planning. The City of Light packs the world's greatest density of landmarks into a walkable core: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and a Notre-Dame newly returned from its historic restoration — with neighbourhoods between them meant to be lived, not viewed: the Marais and its lanes, Montmartre and its hill, the Latin Quarter and its gardens. In our guide, every landmark is documented in detail: what you'll see, what entry costs, when to come to beat the crowds, and how to arrive by metro — with local secrets no brochure carries. Give the city four days at minimum, and always book the major sights ahead.