Paris is the city of lights, the city of love — we all know that. But despite its enduring popularity, there are still many things in Paris that most tourists remain unfamiliar with. Furthermore, the classic sights of Paris remain some of the most beautiful, and shouldn’t be discounted just because they’re popular. When it comes to travel, there is no such thing as a cliche. The Eiffel tower may be a mainstay, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth seeing. If you’re willing to go a bit out of the way of the main city, Versailles is beautiful as well. There are many, many more things that you’d probably want to see in Paris if you have the chance. But over the course of a vacation, you only have a limited time in which you can see what you want to see. So it’s important that before you go to Paris, you not only figure out where you’re staying during your Paris vacation — whether you’re looking at vacation rentals or a luxury apartment — but what you’re going to do. That way, your time visiting Paris can be a little bit more relaxed. Below are a few things you should think about seeing and experiencing in Paris.

1. Restaurants In Paris

There is a reason why the cuisine of Paris is famed throughout the world. It simply stands at a cut above the rest, and as you visit Paris you’ll notice that there are many different foods to sample. Restaurants in Paris may sound intimidating, but they don’t have to be expensive. The Latin quarter has some of the least expensive restaurants in Paris, with many establishments offering deals in which you can have multiple courses while paying an affordable, flat price. The food at such restaurants is usually classically Parisian, and certainly tasty. Other restaurants in Paris are a bit more expensive, and require reservations years ahead of time. If you have the funds and want to visit a restaurant like this, you shouldn’t hesitate to do so. Food in Paris can offer you the experience of a lifetime. You can take in the flavors of the city, while at the same time watching the sights from a restaurant window. Don’t forget to try other forms of cuisine too — Paris street food includes things such as crepes and croissants, and it’s never a bad time to try a bakery. Don’t neglect wine either; 24 million people visit wine regions on average, and you don’t want to miss your opportunity to taste wine in Paris.

2. The Catacombs

The catacombs of Paris are not quite as famous as the Eiffel tower. However, they’re just as remarkable. If you don’t know what catacombs are — they’re definitely singular in experience. Catacombs are where the remains of the dead are kept, underground. The catacombs in Paris can be toured, and provide a both poignant and striking historical experience. The catacombs of Paris were established in 1810, and their depth is 20 meters — the equivalent of a five story building.

3. The Louvre

While vacations are relaxing, they can also be exhilarating and fun. There is also exercise involved; tourists walk an average of 10 miles a day while sightseeing. Why not use some of those miles on the Louvre? The Louvre is the foremost art museum in the world, and perhaps the most notable Paris museum. The Louvre is stunningly beautiful. The building in which the art is housed is beautiful and historic. At the same time, the Louvre is home to Leonardo da Vinci’s “Mona Lisa”, as well as works by masters like Michelangelo, Raphael, Vermeer, Rembrandt, and many more. Visiting a museum like the Louvre allows you to entertain your children while at the same time educating them. It’s a manifold experience that cannot be missed.

One thing is certain: when you visit Paris, you’re going to have the experience of a lifetime. And you’ll be very, very glad you went there!