The Seine, Paris

The Seine, perhaps the world’s most romanticized river, bisects Paris, dividing the city into two banks: the historically bohemian Rive Gauche and the elegant Rive Droite. While there are gorgeous views from either side, try skipping the banks altogether and walk on the two natural islands in the Seine’s center. Cross over the Pont Neuf—the oldest-standing bridge on the river and a gorgeous remnant of medieval Paris—to Ile de la Cité and wander toward the Marché au Fleurs. (The Pont Neuf is located a few minutes’ walk from Les Halles, on Rue du Pont Neuf and Quai du Louvre.) After perusing the flowers, trees and (on Sundays) birds, swing by the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame on the way to the Pont Saint-Louis, which connects Ile de la Cité to Ile Saint-Louis. End the outing at Berthillon (29–31 Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île; 33-1/43-54-31-61; berthillon.fr), which sells Parisian-sized scoops of truly exquisite ice cream—try the gianduja à l’orange.