Paris, also known as the City of Lights and the City of Love, is truly one of Europe’s most recognizable and enduring cities. The architectural landmarks—from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe to gargoyle-adorned Notre Dame—are iconic; the food, whether picnic fare or triple-Michelin-starred cuisine, is almost always exquisite and expertly prepared; shopping ranges from Les Puces flea market to the Dior design house and is practically a citywide pastime; and artistic treasures are housed not only in the slew of excellent museums but in the city’s many gardens as well. (And that’s to say nothing of the vibrant street art scene!) It’s hard to imagine anywhere living up to the hype surrounding Paris, but after walking along the Seine and taking in everything the city has to offer, many find this majestic place actually manages to surpass expectations.