Paris is one of the world’s most captivating destinations, offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and modern charm. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, the city provides endless opportunities for exploration and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover more, there’s always something new to enjoy. Many travelers search for the best things to do in Paris to make the most of their trip and plan their itinerary wisely. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top experiences that make Paris truly unique.
Why is Paris One of the Most Visited Cities in the World?
Paris, the “City of Light,” continues to captivate travelers from around the world with its timeless charm, rich history, and cultural significance. As one of the most visited cities globally, it offers a unique blend of iconic landmarks, artistic heritage, and vibrant local life that appeals to every type of traveler.
- Iconic Landmarks and Attractions: From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum, Paris is home to world-famous landmarks that define its global appeal and attract millions of visitors each year.
- Rich Culture and Artistic Heritage: The city stands as a global hub for art, fashion, and gastronomy, offering museums, galleries, and cultural experiences that reflect centuries of creativity.
- Diverse Experiences for Every Traveler: Whether you’re a couple seeking romance, a family on vacation, or a foodie exploring local cuisine, Paris offers something for everyone.
- Easy Exploration and Accessibility: With its efficient public transportation system and walkable neighborhoods, navigating Paris is convenient and enjoyable.
- A Perfect Blend of Tradition and Modernity: Paris beautifully balances its historic charm with modern innovations in art, fashion, and dining, making every visit feel fresh and exciting.
- Year-Round Events and Vibrant Atmosphere: Cultural festivals, seasonal events, and lively streets ensure that the city remains dynamic and engaging throughout the year.
Best Things to Do in Paris for First-Time Visitors

For first-time visitors, Paris is a treasure trove of unforgettable experiences. The key to making the most of your trip lies in balancing iconic sights with hidden gems. Start by immersing yourself in the city’s most famous attractions, but don’t hesitate to venture off the beaten path to discover what makes Paris truly special. Here’s a curated list of the best things to do in Paris that every first-time visitor should experience:
- Stand in awe of the Eiffel Tower — No trip to Paris is complete without seeing the world’s most recognizable landmark. Whether you ascend to the summit for breathtaking views or simply admire it from the Champ de Mars, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of Parisian elegance.
- Explore the Louvre Museum — Home to masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo, the Louvre is the world’s largest art museum. Plan your visit strategically to avoid crowds and focus on the highlights.
- Stroll along the Seine River — A leisurely walk along the Seine offers a glimpse into Paris’s romantic side. Stop at bridges like Pont des Arts or Pont Neuf for postcard-perfect views.
- Visit Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur — This bohemian neighborhood is a world away from the bustling city center. Wander its cobblestone streets, visit the charming Place du Tertre, and enjoy panoramic views from Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Experience Parisian café culture — Sipping an espresso at a historic café like Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots is a rite of passage. Pair it with a pain au chocolat for the full experience.
Beyond these classics, first-time visitors should also consider:
- Taking a Seine River cruise — A sunset cruise offers a magical perspective of Paris’s landmarks, illuminated against the evening sky.
- Exploring the Catacombs — For a unique and slightly eerie experience, delve into the underground tunnels lined with the bones of Paris’s former inhabitants.
- Visiting the Musée d’Orsay — If you love Impressionist art, this museum’s stunning collection and beautiful architecture make it a must-see.
For those looking to save money, many of Paris’s top tourist attractions offer free or discounted entry on specific days. Always check ahead to plan your visits efficiently, and browse SkyDealFinder for exclusive travel packages that include museum passes and skip-the-line access.
Pro Tips for First-Time Visitors:
- Buy a Paris Museum Pass — If you plan to visit multiple museums, this pass can save you time and money.
- Learn basic French phrases — While many Parisians speak English, a simple “Bonjour” or “Merci” goes a long way.
- Dress comfortably but stylishly — Paris is a fashion capital, and locals appreciate it when visitors embrace the city’s chic aesthetic.
- Use public transport — The Metro is efficient and affordable, but be mindful of pickpockets in crowded areas.
- Book popular attractions in advance — Lines for the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and other top Paris sights can be long, so securing skip-the-line tickets is a game-changer.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower, an engineering marvel completed in 1889 for the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair), stands as the most recognizable symbol of Paris. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this wrought-iron lattice tower was initially met with skepticism but has since become an enduring icon of romance, innovation, and French pride. Standing at 330 meters (1,083 feet), it was the tallest man-made structure in the world until 1930 and remains one of the most visited attractions globally.
Today, the Eiffel Tower attracts over 7 million visitors annually, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world. Whether you choose to ascend to the summit, dine at one of its restaurants, or simply admire it from afar, the tower offers a multi-sensory experience. The best time to visit is either at sunrise, when the crowds are minimal, or during the evening when the tower sparkles with its famous light show every hour on the hour after sunset.
For those seeking a more intimate experience, consider:
- Taking the stairs to the second floor — While slower, this option offers a more personal climb with fewer crowds.
- Dining at Le Jules Verne — Located on the second floor, this Michelin-starred restaurant provides a luxurious way to enjoy the views.
- Visiting the Eiffel Tower at night — The tower’s twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere, perfect for couples or photographers.
If you’re planning your visit, keep these tips in mind:
- Book tickets in advance — Lines can be extremely long, especially during peak seasons. Check SkyDealFinder for bundled ticket deals that include priority access.
- Arrive early or late — Avoid the midday rush for a more enjoyable experience.
- Check for special events — The tower occasionally hosts themed light displays and exhibitions.
- Consider a guided tour — Some tours include access to restricted areas or behind-the-scenes stories about the tower’s history.
Exploring the Louvre Museum
The Louvre Museum, originally built as a royal palace in the 12th century, is now the world’s largest art museum and a cornerstone of any Paris itinerary. Housing over 38,000 objects from prehistory to the 21st century, the Louvre is a testament to humanity’s artistic and cultural evolution. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance masterpieces, the museum’s collection spans continents and millennia, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
The Louvre’s most famous works — such as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, The Venus de Milo, and The Winged Victory of Samothrace — draw millions of visitors each year. However, the museum’s true magic lies in its ability to surprise even the most seasoned art lovers. The Denon Wing, home to the Mona Lisa, is often the first stop for many, but exploring the less crowded Sully Wing or Richelieu Wing can yield equally breathtaking discoveries.
To make the most of your visit, follow this strategic plan:
- Focus on the highlights — Prioritize the must-see pieces to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
- Use the Louvre’s official app — It provides a self-guided tour with audio guides and real-time crowd updates.
- Visit during off-peak hours — The museum is free for visitors under 26 from EU countries, but lines can still be long.
- Take a guided tour — Expert guides can offer fascinating insights into the museum’s history and lesser-known stories.
Top Paris sights within the Louvre not to be missed:
- Napoleon’s Apartments — A glimpse into the personal life of the emperor.
- The Louvre Pyramid — An architectural marvel in its own right, designed by I.M. Pei.
- The Egyptian Antiquities Department — Home to the museum’s impressive collection of pharaohs and mummies.
Walking Along the Champs-Élysées
The Champs-Élysées, often called the world’s most famous avenue, epitomizes Parisian grandeur and luxury. Stretching 1.9 kilometers (1.2 miles) from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, this iconic boulevard is lined with high-end boutiques, cafés, cinemas, and theaters, making it a prime destination for shopping, dining, and sightseeing. The avenue’s name, derived from the Greek “Champs Élysées” (Elysian Fields), reflects its association with paradise and elegance.
A walk along the Champs-Élysées is more than just a stroll — it’s an experience that encapsulates the glamour and energy of Paris. Start your journey at the Arc de Triomphe, where you can climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city. As you descend, you’ll pass by:
- Luxury Stores — From Dior and Louis Vuitton to Cartier, the Champs-Élysées is a shopper’s paradise.
- Historic Cafés — Stop at Café de la Paix or Fouquet’s, two of the most famous cafés in Paris, for a classic French breakfast or afternoon tea.
- Theater and Cinema District — The avenue is home to iconic venues like the Théâtre Marigny and Grand Palais, where you can catch a show or exhibition.
- The Tuileries Garden — At the end of the avenue, this lush garden offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets.
For a deeper dive into the Champs-Élysées experience, consider these activities:
- Visit the Galeries Lafayette — One of Paris’s most luxurious department stores, featuring stunning architecture and a rooftop terrace with views of the Eiffel Tower.
- Explore the Palais de Chaillot — A lesser-known gem with two museums and breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine.
- Attend a Fashion Show — If your visit aligns with Paris Fashion Week, securing tickets to a show on the Champs-Élysées is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
- Take a Nighttime Walk — The avenue comes alive after dark, with illuminated storefronts and a vibrant atmosphere.
Pro tips for your visit:
- Avoid the midday rush — The Champs-Élysées can be crowded, especially on weekends. Early mornings or evenings are ideal for a more relaxed experience.
- Watch for pickpockets — Like many tourist-heavy areas, be cautious of your belongings, particularly in crowded shopping districts.
- Combine with nearby attractions — Pair your visit with a stop at the Arc de Triomphe or a Seine River cruise for a full day of exploration.
Discovering Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture, has stood on the Île de la Cité since its construction began in 1163. This iconic landmark is renowned for its stunning flying buttresses, towering spires, and its legendary association with Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre-Dame. Though still under restoration following the devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral remains a symbol of Paris’s resilience and enduring beauty. Visitors can now explore the exterior, the nearby Sainte-Chapelle, and the Parvis (the square in front of the cathedral), while the interior remains closed until further notice.
Notre-Dame’s history is as rich as its architecture. It has witnessed coronations, royal weddings, and pivotal moments in French history. Today, it remains a spiritual and cultural cornerstone of Paris. Key highlights to appreciate include:
- The Rose Windows — The cathedral’s breathtaking stained-glass windows, particularly the North and South Rose Windows, are masterpieces of medieval craftsmanship.
- The Gargoyles — These iconic stone carvings, including the famous “Stryge” chimera-like figure, add to the cathedral’s mystical allure.
- The Crypt — Located beneath the cathedral, this underground space offers a glimpse into the site’s earliest history.
- The Île de la Cité — The island where Notre-Dame stands is one of Paris’s oldest neighborhoods, filled with charming streets and historic sites.
For those eager to experience the cathedral’s grandeur, these nearby alternatives provide rich insight:
- Visit Sainte-Chapelle — Just a short walk from Notre-Dame, this chapel boasts some of the finest 13th-century stained glass in the world.
- Explore the Conciergerie — Another historic site on the Île de la Cité, this former royal palace served as a prison during the French Revolution.
- Attend a Concert at Notre-Dame — When the cathedral reopens, its renowned acoustics will once again host world-class musical performances.
- Join a Guided Tour — Many tours focus on Notre-Dame’s history and the ongoing restoration efforts, offering a deeper understanding of its cultural impact.
If you’re planning a visit to the Île de la Cité, combine it with these nearby attractions:
- Shakespeare and Company — A legendary English-language bookstore that has inspired writers for decades.
- Les Deux Magots — A historic café frequented by literary giants like Hemingway and Sartre.
- The Seine Riverbanks — A peaceful spot to reflect on Paris’s history while enjoying the city’s iconic views.
Best River Seine Cruises and Experiences
A Seine River cruise is one of the most enchanting ways to experience Paris, offering a unique perspective of the city’s landmarks while gliding past its historic bridges and islands. The Seine, often called the “Queen of Rivers,” has been the lifeblood of Paris for centuries, inspiring artists, writers, and lovers alike. Today, cruises range from leisurely sightseeing tours to gourmet dining experiences, ensuring there’s an option for every traveler. SkyDealFinder offers curated Seine cruise packages to help you find the perfect experience at the best price.
The most popular cruises depart from Pont de l’Alma (near the Eiffel Tower) or Quai d’Orsay (near the Musée d’Orsay). Here’s what you can expect on a typical cruise:
- Iconic Landmarks — You’ll sail past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Musée d’Orsay, and Les Invalides, all illuminated at night.
- Historic Bridges — Bridges like Pont des Arts (the “Love Locks” bridge) and Pont Neuf add charm to the journey.
- Luxury and Ambiance — Many boats feature glass cocktail lounges, live jazz music, or even Michelin-starred dining options.
- Sunset and Nighttime Views — A sunset cruise is especially magical, as the city lights reflect on the water.
For a memorable experience, consider these cruise options:
- Bateaux Mouches — The most famous cruise line, offering classic sightseeing tours with commentary in multiple languages.
- Vedettes du Pont Neuf — A budget-friendly option with shorter cruises, perfect for a quick introduction to the Seine’s beauty.
- Ducasse sur Seine — A luxurious dining experience with a three-course meal paired with wine, led by a sommelier.
- Evening Jazz Cruise — Combine music and scenery with a cruise featuring live jazz performances.
Pro tips for your Seine River adventure:
- Book in advance — Popular cruises, especially dinner options, sell out quickly, particularly during peak seasons.
- Choose the right time — Sunset and evening cruises offer the most stunning views, but morning cruises are less crowded.
- Dress comfortably — While some cruises are formal, most are casual, so wear layers for varying temperatures.
- Combine with a walk — After your cruise, stroll along the Seine’s left bank (Rive Gauche) for a taste of Parisian bohemian culture.
Free Things to Do in Paris on a Budget
Paris doesn’t have to break the bank. Beneath its reputation for luxury lies a city brimming with extraordinary free experiences that rival any paid attraction. With a little planning, budget travelers can enjoy the very best of Paris without spending a fortune. SkyDealFinder also helps budget-conscious travelers find affordable flights and accommodation to make the most of every euro.
- Explore the banks of the Seine — A UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right, the riverbanks offer stunning views, street performers, and open-air book stalls at no cost.
- Visit the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris — This city-run museum offers free permanent collection admission and houses an impressive range of 20th-century art.
- Wander through the Luxembourg Gardens — One of Paris’s most beloved green spaces, perfect for a picnic, a jog, or simply people-watching among locals.
- Explore the Père Lachaise Cemetery — The resting place of icons like Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf, and Jim Morrison, this cemetery is a hauntingly beautiful open-air gallery.
- Admire the exterior of Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle — Even without entering, the Gothic grandeur of these monuments is awe-inspiring.
- Browse the bouquinistes — The iconic green wooden stalls lining the Seine sell antique books, prints, and postcards — a quintessentially Parisian experience.
- Attend free events at Centre Pompidou — The plaza outside often hosts free performances, installations, and public gatherings.
- Discover the covered passages (galeries) — These 19th-century glass-roofed arcades, like Galerie Vivienne and Passage des Panorama,s are free to explore and full of charm.
Hidden Gems and Local Experiences in Paris
Beyond the postcard images lies a Paris known only to those who look a little harder. The city rewards the curious traveler with hidden courtyards, secret gardens, underground galleries, and neighborhood rituals that offer a window into authentic Parisian life. For travelers eager to discover this side of Paris, SkyDealFinder can help you plan a longer, more exploratory stay with flexible booking options.
- Promenade Plantée (Coulée Verte) — The world’s first elevated park, built on a disused railway viaduct, predating New York’s High Line by decades. A peaceful green walkway stretching 4.5 kilometers through the 12th arrondissement.
- Palais Royal Gardens — Tucked behind the Louvre, this serene,e colonnaded garden is a favorite escape for Parisians and largely overlooked by tourists.
- The Paris Sewers Museum (Musée des Égouts) — A surprisingly fascinating journey beneath the city’s streets, exploring the engineering marvel of Paris’s historic sewer system.
- Villa Montmorency — A gated private garden village in the 16th arrondissement, home to some of Paris’s most exclusive residences, best glimpsed through its ornate iron gates.
- Covered passages (galeries couvertes) — Galerie Vivienne, Passage Jouffroy, and Passage des Panoramas are 19th-century glass-roofed arcades that feel frozen in time, filled with antique dealers, quirky shops, and charming tea rooms.
- Square du Vert-Galant — A hidden riverside garden at the tip of the Île de la Cité, offering beautiful views of the Seine and a favourite spot for Parisians to relax.
- Marché d’Aligre — One of Paris’s liveliest and most affordable street markets, beloved by locals for its fresh produce, flea market section, and authentic atmosphere far from tourist crowds.
Local experiences worth seeking out:
- Attend a pétanque game — Join locals playing pétanque (boules) in the Champ de Mars or Jardin du Luxembourg on a sunny afternoon.
- Visit a neighborhood fromagerie — Skip the supermarket and seek out a proper cheese shop for an education in French fromage from a passionate affineur.
- Catch a film at a classic cinema — Paris has some of the world’s finest independent cinemas, including Le Champo and Cinéma des Cinéastes, which regularly screen classic and arthouse films.
Shopping Destinations and Fashion Streets
Paris is the undisputed global capital of fashion, and shopping here is an experience unto itself — whether you’re browsing haute couture ateliers on Avenue Montaigne or hunting for vintage treasures in a flea market on the city’s outskirts. The sheer variety of shopping experiences ensures that every style and budget finds its perfect destination.
- Avenue Montaigne — Haute Couture Heaven: The most prestigious shopping street in Paris, home to the flagship stores of Chanel, Dior, Valentino, Givenchy, and Prada. Even if you’re not buying, a stroll down this immaculate avenue is an experience in itself.
- Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré: Another pillar of Parisian luxury retail, this street is home to Hermès, Saint Laurent, Lanvin, and the Élysée Palace. The window displays alone are worth the walk.
- Le Marais — Independent Boutiques and Concept Stores: For fashion-forward shoppers seeking something beyond the mainstream, Le Marais delivers with its concentration of independent designers, vintage stores, and cutting-edge concept shops like Merci on Boulevard Beaumarchais.
- Rue de Rivoli and Les Halles: For more accessible high-street shopping, this central area houses Zara, H&M, Uniqlo, and the vast Forum des Halles underground shopping center.
- Saint-Ouen Flea Market (Marché aux Puces): One of the world’s largest antique markets, open on weekends on the northern edge of Paris. Covering over 7 hectares with more than 2,500 dealers, it’s a paradise for vintage clothing, antique furniture, rare books, and one-of-a-kind curiosities.
- Galeries Lafayette and Printemps: These two legendary department stores on Boulevard Haussmann are institutions in their own right. Beyond their vast fashion floors, both offer rooftop terraces with spectacular city views — free to access and often overlooked by shoppers.
Famous Paris Cafes and Food Experiences
French cuisine is as much a cultural experience as it is a culinary one, and nowhere is this truer than in Paris. The city’s café culture, neighborhood boulangeries, bustling food markets, and world-class restaurants form an essential part of any visit. For food lovers, Paris is simply unmissable — and SkyDealFinder can help you find travel deals that leave more of your budget for the city’s legendary dining scene.
- Café de Flore (Saint-Germain-des-Prés) — One of the oldest and most celebrated cafés in Paris, beloved by Simone de Beauvoir, Jean-Paul Sartre, and generations of intellectuals. Order a café crème and soak in the atmosphere.
- Les Deux Magots — Located just across from Café de Flore, this legendary spot was frequented by Hemingway, Picasso, and James Joyce. A Parisian institution.
- Café de la Paix (near the Opéra) — A sumptuous Second Empire interior and a terrace overlooking the Opéra Garnier make this one of Paris’s most dramatic café settings.
- Angelina (Rue de Rivoli) — Famous across the world for its impossibly thick Mont-Blanc hot chocolate and legendary pastries. The queue is worth every minute.
Essential Parisian Food Experiences:
- Breakfast at a boulangerie — Start every morning with a freshly baked croissant or pain au chocolat from a neighborhood bakery. The quality difference from anything outside France is immediately apparent.
- A classic French bistro lunch — Seek out a handwritten chalkboard menu (ardoise), a carafe of house wine, and dishes like steak frites, croque monsieur, or salade niçoise for an authentic midday meal.
- Cheese and charcuterie at a covered market — Markets like Marché d’Aligre or Marché des Enfants Rouges (the oldest covered market in Paris, dating to 1615) offer an extraordinary array of artisan products.
- Macarons from Ladurée or Pierre Hermé — These two rival pastry houses represent the pinnacle of the Parisian macaron art. Both are unmissable for anyone with a sweet tooth.
- Dinner in the Canal Saint-Martin area — This trendy neighborhood is packed with excellent bistros and natural wine bars offering creative, market-driven cuisine at reasonable prices.
Practical food tips:
- Lunch menus (formules) at restaurants almost always offer better value than dinner — a two or three-course meal can cost as little as €14-€18 at lunchtime.
- Tipping is not obligatory in France (service is included), but rounding up or leaving a few euros is appreciated.
- Always say “Bonjour” upon entering any establishment — it is considered the bare minimum of politeness and will noticeably improve your service.
Best Day Trips from Paris
Paris’s position at the heart of northern France makes it an ideal base for day trips to some of Europe’s most extraordinary destinations. With an excellent rail network radiating from the city’s main stations, world-class attractions are often no more than 30 to 90 minutes away. SkyDealFinder offers day trip packages from Paris that combine transport and entry tickets for a seamless experience.
- Versailles (35 minutes by RER C): The Palace of Versailles is arguably the most spectacular royal residence in the world. Built by Louis XIV, the Sun King, its Hall of Mirrors, State Apartments, and immense formal gardens are a breathtaking display of absolute monarchy at its most extravagant. Arrive early to beat the crowds, and allocate a full day to do justice to the palace and its 800-hectare grounds.
- Mont Saint-Michel (approximately 3.5 hours by TGV + shuttle): This tidal island abbey rising dramatically from the sea is one of France’s most iconic images and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval architecture, the dramatic tidal bay, and the sense of stepping back into the Middle Ages make it a deeply memorable excursion.
- Giverny — Monet’s Garden (approximately 1.5 hours by train + bus): The village where Claude Monet lived and painted for over 40 years, and the source of inspiration for his celebrated Water Lilies series. The house and gardens are meticulously maintained and extraordinarily beautiful, particularly in spring and early summer.
- Champagne Region — Reims and Épernay (45–90 minutes by TGV): Reims offers the magnificent Gothic Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims (where French kings were crowned) alongside prestigious Champagne houses like Taittinger and Pommery. Épernay, home to the famous Avenue de Champagne, offers cellar tours and tastings at houses including Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.
- Loire Valley (approximately 1 hour by TGV to Tours): A UNESCO World Heritage landscape of royal châteaux, vineyards, and medieval towns strung along the Loire River. Châteaux such as Chambord, Chenonceau, and Amboise are among the finest examples of French Renaissance architecture in existence.
- Bruges, Belgium (approximately 2.5 hours by Thalys train): For those willing to venture a little further, the perfectly preserved medieval city of Bruges offers canals, Gothic architecture, world-class chocolate, and some of the finest beer in Europe — a complete contrast to the Parisian experience.
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FAQs
Which Paris landmarks should tourists not miss?
Tourists should not miss iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. A visit to the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe also offers a true Parisian experience. Additionally, Montmartre provides stunning views and a glimpse into the city’s artistic heritage.
What are the most romantic things to do in Paris?
Paris is perfect for romantic activities like a Seine River cruise, especially at sunset or nighttime. Couples can enjoy a walk through charming streets like Montmartre or relax in gardens such as Luxembourg Gardens. Dining at a cozy Parisian café or fine restaurant also adds to the romantic experience.
How many days are enough to explore Paris?
A stay of 3 to 5 days is usually enough to explore Paris comfortably. This allows time to visit major landmarks, museums, and neighborhoods without rushing. However, a longer stay offers a deeper experience, including day trips and hidden gems.




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