The list of places to visit in Paris is long. Having once lived there during college, I no longer feel the need to see all the sights when I return to Paris, but I still make it a point to see a my favourite sights in the city. Here is my top 5 places to visit in Paris, for those stopping over for a short stay.

1. Notre-Dame-de-Paris
The famous cathedral overlooks the entire city of lights and it’s free to enter. For a panoramic view of Paris, climb to the bell tower of the cathedral and see Paris spread out at your feet

2.Musée du Louvre
The Louvre is always packed and its expansive wings could take days to go through. To make the most out of time spent at the museum, it’s best to go with a plan of which exhibits you’d like to see. To avoid long lines and wait lines, go in the morning when the museum first opens.

3. Eiffel Tower
The symbol that many associate with Paris, the Eiffel Tower is definitely worth a visit for first-time tourists. Take the stairs and go to the top of the tower to take in a stunning view of Paris. The best spot to view the Eiffel Tower is at the Trocadero - across the Seine from the tower itself.

4. Arc de Triomphe
Stroll the Champs-Élysées all the way to the Arc de Triomphe, avenues spread out from there. For a different view of Paris, climb to the top of Arc de Triomphe at night, and see the streets below it all lit up.

5. Pont Des Artes
These days, there are love locks on several bridges over the Seine. Lovers come to Paris and hang a lock on Pont des Art to symbolize their everlasting love.