At the last count, Paris boasted some 157 museums. They range from private collections on passions as diverse as Edith Piaf and smoking, to vast palaces of art and artefacts such as the Louvre and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. There really is something for everyone. Unsurprisingly, State and City invest enormous sums in conserving and showing their collections and, in the interests of attracting le grand public, there’s a constant turnover of exhibitions and fresh perspectives.

Typically, museum entry costs around €6-8, though many museums owned by the City of Paris are free. Of the various sightseeing options, the Paris Museum Pass (www.parismuseumpass.fr) represents the best value – but unless you’re set on a frenetic two to six-day culture fest, you’re unlikely to benefit. Bear in mind, too, that national museums close on Tuesdays and most city museums on Mondays.