Notre Dame
Notre Dame is found on the Ile de la Cité. It has an impressive two tower west face, which has recently been cleaned, and a wonderfully gothic east face. If you are seeing Notre Dame for the first time then my advice would be to approach from the west along Quai des Grands Augustins. Entry is free to the Cathedral though you are of course encouraged to leave a donation. If you wish to climb the towers for a view of riverside Paris then head to the north side of the cathedral. Climbing the towers is not free but is well worth doing. Take the time also to walk around to the east face of the Cathedral through the garden on the south side.
On the north side of the terrace in front of Notre Dame is the Hôpital de Dieu. This is a working hospital with a lovely courtyard. It is worth popping your head in for a quick look.
Also in the vacinity is the Palais de la Cité - the first royal palace in Paris. It contains the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapelle. Do not miss Saint Chapelle if you are in Paris on a sunny day as the stained-glass windows are fantastic.
