Three things the French excel in are art, entertainment, and of course, wine. So anyone planning a visit to Paris, or to France in general, should be sure to visit three particular attractions. The Louvre is one of those “to-do” items that goes without saying. And instead of fearing crowds and waits, simply plan your trip in ahead. Buy Louvre tickets in advance, and plan to visit part, rather than all, of the sprawling complex.

While central Paris gentrifies and globalizes, neighborhoods outside those central arrondissements retain individual charm. Montmartre, in particular, has managed to welcome throngs to its unique houses of entertainment. If Baz Luhrmann saw fit to make a movie of one of its showgirl stage shows, it’s certainly worth a visit to the real thing, so make sure to get Moulin Rouge tickets in advance.

Finally, day trips from the capital are super do-able thanks to their proximity. Champagne tours from Paris, for instance, bring you to the heart of the bubbly-making industry. And yes, samples are offered