Some of the Unmissable Sights of Paris
Moulin Rouge
The Moulin Rouge is undoubtedly one of the most popular landmarks in France; considered by many as the birthplace of the can-can dance, the iconic red windmill continues to bring in countless visitors to this day.
While it developed a reputation as something of a seedy place for men to see young Parisian girls perform what were seen as suggestive dances following its opening in 1899, the Moulin Rouge soon cleaned up its act and began to receive plaudits as a fashionable music and cabaret hall, attracting high-class clientele as a result.
This period also saw the can-can moderately toned down, and while it was still considered by many to be racy, it did become more tasteful. This remains the case today, with more than 100 performers donning impressive outfits to ensure a spectacular performance for audiences to admire every night.
The Eiffel Tower
The most dominating landmark in all of Paris, the Eiffel Tower stands proudly on the banks of the Seine and is regarded as the number one cultural icon of France. Built in 1899 by the engineer Gustave Eiffel, it was originally designed to serve as the entrance arch to the World's Fair of that year.
With well over 250 million people having visited the 324-metre lattice structure since it was opened, a trip to the viewing tower at the summit allows those who make the journey up to enjoy unrivalled views across the cityscape. Although there are lift services to the top, there is also the opportunity for people to climb up to the second level via a specially designed staircase - although the 2,600 or so steps often puts people off!
Notre Dame Cathedral
The beauty of the Notre Dame Cathedral is simply breathtaking.
Among the largest and best-known religious buildings in the world, it has stood since 1345 and is considered to be one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture.
Perhaps the most famous angle from which to admire the Notre Dame is by standing at its western fa§ade, which gives visitors the chance to gaze in awe at the two bell towers, a sizeable circular stained-glass window and the gargoyles, which were actually built to serve as drainage gutters to remove excess rainwater.