Visit Paris
Blending a millennia-old heritage with contemporary energy, Paris stands as one of the world's great cultural capitals. From the Eiffel Tower to the banks of the Seine, through its museums, markets and historic districts, the City of Light offers a unique experience to every visitor.
Why does Paris attract the whole world?
Paris is the capital of France and one of the most visited cities in the world. It concentrates exceptional cultural heritage, from historic monuments to world-class museums and celebrated gastronomy. The city brings together art, fashion and an art of living in a unique architectural setting.
Paris Highlights
Iconic monuments, exceptional museums and historic walks: here is what Paris offers at its finest.
Eiffel Tower
A global symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower has dominated the capital since 1889, welcoming millions of visitors each year who come to admire the city from its platforms.
Louvre Museum
The world's largest museum, the Louvre houses collections spanning Antiquity to the 19th century, including the celebrated Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci.
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur
Perched on its hill, Montmartre retains its village atmosphere with cobbled lanes, artists' studios and the majestic Sacré-Cœur basilica overlooking the city.
Musée d'Orsay
Housed in a former railway station, the Musée d'Orsay holds a remarkable collection of Impressionist art, with works by Monet, Renoir and Van Gogh.
Le Marais District
A historic district in central Paris, Le Marais blends 17th-century mansions, contemporary art galleries, trendy boutiques and lively squares like the Place des Vosges.
The Seine Riverbanks
The banks of the Seine, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are lined with promenades, bookstalls and many bridges steeped in history and romance.
What to discover in Paris?
Paris reveals itself neighbourhood by neighbourhood, each with its own distinct character. Le Marais, with its 17th-century mansions and art galleries, contrasts with the energy of the Grands Boulevards. Montmartre, perched on its hill, is home to the Sacré-Cœur basilica and the winding lanes that inspired many artists over the centuries. On the Left Bank, the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés evoke the city's rich intellectual and literary history, while the banks of the Seine offer beautiful walks inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Paris's museums rank among the most important in the world: the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of masterpieces, the Musée d'Orsay dedicated to 19th-century art, and the Centre Pompidou for modern and contemporary art. Traditional markets, century-old brasseries and neighbourhood bistros all embody the French art of living. Paris also hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, from prestigious fashion shows to major temporary exhibitions drawing visitors from around the world.
Practical Information for Paris
Region
Île-de-France
Department
Paris (75)
Population
Approx. 2.1 million inhabitants
Area
105 km²
Time zone
UTC+1 (Central European Time)
Official language
French
Currency
Euro (€)
Best season
Spring (Apr–Jun) and autumn (Sep–Oct)
Paris in pictures
Frequently Asked Questions about Paris
How do you get around Paris?
Paris has an extensive public transport network: the Métro, RER, bus and tram lines cover the entire city. The Vélib' bike-share scheme is popular for cycling, and many neighbourhoods are pleasant to explore on foot. Driving in central Paris is discouraged due to heavy traffic and very limited parking.
What is the best time to visit Paris?
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer the best weather conditions: mild temperatures and pleasant light. Summer is peak tourist season with many outdoor festivals and events, but also larger crowds at the most popular attractions.
Should you book museums in advance?
For the most visited museums, such as the Louvre or the Musée d'Orsay, it is strongly recommended to book tickets online in advance. This avoids long queues, especially in peak season. Some museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
What are the must-see sights in Paris?
The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame de Paris, Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre and the Champs-Élysées rank among the most iconic sites. Le Marais, the UNESCO-listed banks of the Seine and the Musée d'Orsay complete an unmissable itinerary for any visit to Paris.
How long should you spend in Paris?
A long weekend allows you to see the main monuments. To explore Paris more thoroughly, a full week is ideal. Each arrondissement deserves to be discovered at its own pace, and the city constantly renews its cultural and gastronomic offer, making every visit unique.
What budget should you plan for a stay in Paris?
Paris offers a wide range of prices depending on the neighbourhood and establishment. Accommodation and dining out can be significant expenses, but it is perfectly possible to visit free monuments, eat at covered markets and enjoy the city's many parks without spending much.
Plan your trip to Paris
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