Montmartre – it is without a doubt a total tourist magnet which means high prices. However, it costs nothing to wander the streets and drink in the wonderful sights and views over Paris. For a food break nip into the Boulangerie La Gallette des Moulins, 1 rue Norvins. Head to the back of the shop with your snack and you’ll find a little covered terrace where birds fly in and out begging for crumbs. You can watch the hordes of tourists through the privacy screen without being seen.
Want to know why there are so many artists on this hill in Paris - see page 36.
The Musée d’Orsay – the collections are impeccable, the biggest gathering of impressionist paintings in the world apparently. Fabulous furniture and sculptures, the most incredible selfie spot- in front of the enormous former station clock, you can easily spend a whole day here. The glamorous restaurants are a destination in their own right though they are often full to the brim and they're not cheap. Go on a Tuesday at lunch time and listen to a concert while you admire the art & eat your packed lunch. Entry to the museum is included in the price of the concert ticket (October through May).
Read more about the Musee d'Orsay lunchtime concerts here
The Louvre is the world’s most visited museum, it’s also one of the biggest. If you spent just 30 seconds looking at each artwork in there without eating, sleeping or taking any sort of break, it would still take you 3 months to see it all. Go on the first Sunday of the month when entrance to the museum is free (except summer months).
Fact: 80% of all visitors to the Louvre only go to see the Mona Lisa.
Top: Montmartre, above right, Marche St Quentin; right Musee d'Orsay clock