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Not only is it the capital of France, Paris has accumulated a laundry list throughout history of self-proclaimed and well-worn titles that place Parisians in a class of their own. Paris is a haven for love and romance, the disputed epicenter of cutting-edge fashion, a global culinary capital, the motherland of fine arts and let us not forget the self-given accolade of an elite culture. The streets of Paris, particularly on spring or summer evenings, are an enchanting mosaic of clanking wine glasses, aromatic espresso and impassioned chatter against a background of softly lit cobblestone. The sprawling metropolis requires careful exploration to properly digest its enticing blend of traditional classy charm and progressive hyper-modernism.

Top to Bottom: Paris at an Angle
An array of sights and attractions offer unique views of Paris from above and, yes, below. The Notre Dame, constructed in the 12th century, offers a spectacular panoramic view of Paris' skyline from an intriguing, if not distracting, setting situated 387 steps up the north tower. The gargoyles perched around the roof of the cathedral range from haunting and ferocious to contemplative and watchful. In the Montmartre quarter, climb the hill culminating at the Basilique du Sacr