Place des Vosges (inaugurated in 1612 as place Royale), is a beautiful square comprised of 36 symmetrical houses that were once the private homes of the rich. Now they offer the same spacious and stunning Renaissance feel, but with ground-floor arcades that are now occupied by upmarket art galleries, antique shops and fine eateries. Take a stroll and soak in the history, view the steep slate roofs and large dormer windows, or have a picnic in the gardens. One of the buildings was the home of the famous French writer Victor Hugo and now houses a museum.