In Brief:
Dating back to the settlement of the Gallic Parisii tribe in the third century BC, Paris remains one of Europe's oldest and most influential cultural centers. Paris offers more than tourist favorites such as the Eiffel Tower and Arc d'Triomphe. Once you place your order, you're free to enjoy your table for as long as you like; waiters are paid hourly wages, so they have no incentive to hurry you. It's customary in Paris and the staff will show you preferential treatment. While the Louvre is Paris' most famous art museum, the Musee d'Orsay and Musee Nationale d'Art Moderne feature exhibits encompassing major works from the 20th century's art movements, and the Palais de la Decouverte's science exhibitions include original sketches and designs by Leonardo da Vinci.