'Plus ca change, plus c'est la meme chose' that's Paris, the happiest marriage of ancient and modern. Paris pulls of the enviably double act of being resolutely in step with the modern world -- mushrooming public Wi-Fi coverage, excellent public transport system, major architectural projects in the pipeline -- and as seductively romantic and gloriously historic as ever: the flagstones the guillotine once stood on are still in situ, the palace of kings that houses the world's largest museum, the Louvre, is still a marvel to behold. The 19th edition of Time Out Paris, written by a resident team of journalists, helps travelers get through the maze of tiny streets and the seemingly endless among of choices. Alongside all the major attractions, this guide provides the inside track on local culture, with illuminating venue reviews covering great brasseries, chic boutiques, and tips about the places frequented by locals. The best way to approach Paris is with a blend of open-mindedness and skepticism, a blend that, as it happens, is one of the many admirable characteristics of Parisians themselves. Explore as much on foot as possible, with the help of Time Out's user friendly maps with venues clearly marked. For all the city's wealth of charm, it's worth considering an escape from the hubbub. Time Out recommends several day-trips such as historic Chantilly, bucolic Giverny (Monet's inspiration) and the genuinely astonishing palace of Versailles even closer.