When it comes to shedding your tourist image

The promenade's name reflects its origins. In the 18th century, English aristocrats would travel to the area for vacations, gradually transforming it from a rugged coastline to an upscale leisure waterfront. The walkway is lined with palm trees, historic Belle Epoque hotels and villas facing the Bay of Angels, and iconic blue chairs that are a symbol of the city. Visitors can take a dip in one of the public beaches that comprise about half of the Bay, and offer public toilets and showers. Or, if you have room to splurge, lounge out at one of the many private beach clubs.

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The Plateau region also abounds in almonds and truffles. Almond groves offer beautiful white blooms starting in March or April. The Museum of Calisson for almonds offers a history of the nut, complete with a bakery offering almond-based goods in the city of Aix-en-Provence. Truffle season reaches its peak in winter, and you can learn tons more about this special delicacy at The House of the Truffle museum in the village of Aups.

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At the bidding of Napoleon I, the audaciously immense archway was designed and erected as a celebration of his empire's glory and that of his soldiers in the early 19th century. However, the monument was not completed until long after the end of his reign, and was inaugurated in 1836. It features four groups of sculptures around its base memorializing different moments in Napoleonic history. Climb the arc's 284 steps to the terrace that offers a 360-degree view of Paris' main boulevards and other landmarks.

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Each of the Seine's many bridges and statues mark different eras of Parisian history. A stroll along the river offers incredible sights: the iconic silhouette of the Eiffel Tower, the ornate architecture of the Louvre, and the stately Place de la Concorde. Wander along the pedestrian-friendly banks, hop on a scenic river cruise to take in the monuments from a new vantage point, or browse the more than 200 "bouquinistes" — the legendary open-air stalls selling vintage books, art prints, and collectibles. And of course, the Seine is lined with charming cafés, floating bars, and parks where you can unwind like a local.

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Of course, go for Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," but stay for the extensive collection of mind-boggling treasures from diverse civilizations. These include artifacts from Napoleon's conquests in Egypt, and one of the largest collections of Italian Renaissance paintings outside of Italy. The Louvre was formerly a royal residence built in the 15th and 16th centuries, and visitors can also visit Napoleon III's apartments decorated as they would have been in the late 19th century.

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The Sacré-Cœur Basilica, built as a monument of reconciliation for the events that transpired during the Paris Commune of 1871, offers sweeping views over Paris. Its gleaming white domes draw millions of visitors each year. Just down the slope, the famous cabaret venue Le Chat Noir still celebrates the bohemian energy that once defined the neighborhood. It was an influential gathering place for painters, performers, and writers that birthed modern cabaret culture.

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For nearly seven centuries, the timbre of the Notre-Dame Cathedral's 21 bells has echoed along the Seine River, which surrounds the island on which the church was built. Notre Dame Cathedral, or "Our Lady Cathedral," is located in the very center of Paris, as well as at the heart of French history and national identity. During the French Revolution of the 18th century, Notre Dame was seized, looted, and sold by the Jacobins. When Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power in the 19th century, he re-possessed it and used it as the site of his own coronation.

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It's worth visiting the tower at night and day, if possible. During the day, the majestic architecture and urban planning of the city is on full display, along with the bustling energy of the city's streets. However, the evening is considered the best time of day to visit the Eiffel Tower for views. After sundown, the streets turn into a mesmerizing glow and you'll surely understand why it's nicknamed The City of Lights. The tower itself lights up at nightfall, creating a truly romantic atmosphere. Plus, there are fewer crows at night.

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That said, France's appeal extends far beyond the capital. Across the country, countless destinations offer unique glimpses into France's heritage and natural beauty. These sites extend from the great alpine slopes, through valleys of lavender, to coastal vineyards and seaside castles. While sometimes less familiar to travelers, these sites carry the same historical weight, architectural marvels, and cultural resonance as the monuments of Paris.

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And Rick Steves offers some overall advice when it comes to deciding what to wear in Europe, noting that comfortable clothing that doesn't offend others is usually good enough. He added in his blog post, "No matter how carefully you dress, your clothes will probably distinguish you from Europeans. And so what? To blend in and be culturally sensitive, I watch my manners, not the cut of my clothes."

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