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Paris, the capital of France
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Paris

Paris is the capital and largest city of France, located on the Seine in the centre of the Île-de-France region. Nicknamed the "City of Light" for its leading role in the Age of Enlightenment, it remains one of Europe's most visited and culturally significant destinations.

Photo: Yann Caradec from Paris, France (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Quick facts

Population
2,133,111 (city, 2021)
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Language
French
Timezone
CET (UTC+1)
Local time now
03:59:30

Hotels in Paris

Paris offers a diverse range of hotels to suit every traveller, from luxury boutique properties like Le Bellechasse Saint-Germain and Hôtel de Varenne to charming establishments such as Bourgogne et Montana Hôtel and Hôtel d'Orsay. Whether you're seeking classic Parisian elegance or contemporary comfort, the city's accommodations reflect its reputation as one of Europe's most beloved destinations. See all hotels →

Airports in Paris

Paris is served by several major airports and air facilities, including Aéroport de Paris - Le Bourget and Aéroport de Paris-Orly, along with military bases and aerodrome facilities in the surrounding region. See all airports →

Base aérienne 107 Villacoublay - Sous-lieutenant René Dorme
13.2 km from centre
Aéroport de Paris - Le Bourget
14.1 km from centre
Aéroport de Paris-Orly
14.6 km from centre

Car Hire in Paris

Paris offers several car hire options for visitors and locals alike. Major rental companies including Hertz, SIXT, Goselftours, and Globe Location Autos & Camions operate throughout the city, providing convenient access to vehicles for exploring the French capital and beyond. See all car hire →

Things to Do in Paris

Paris offers an extraordinary array of attractions for every traveler. Whether you're exploring historic chapels like the Chapelle des Catéchismes, visiting cultural institutions such as the Musée social, or discovering architectural gems around the city, there's something to captivate every visitor to the City of Light. See all things to do →

César Franck
16 m from centre
Hôtel de Broglie
122 m from centre
Chapelle des Catéchismes
126 m from centre
Musée social
173 m from centre
Dix Solférino
246 m from centre
Flood Marking
257 m from centre

Restaurants in Paris

Paris offers a diverse dining scene with establishments ranging from traditional French bistros to international cuisine. Whether you're looking for Japanese cuisine at Hana, classic French fare at Le Basilic, or a literary atmosphere at Club des Poètes, the city provides numerous options to suit every palate. See all restaurants →

Swimming Pools in Paris

Paris offers a variety of swimming facilities for residents and visitors, including the Olympic 50m pool and specialized diving pool. Public pools like Bassin-école Grange-aux-Belles and Pateaugeoire provide accessible swimming options throughout the city. See all swimming pools →

Bassin-école Grange-aux-Belles
4.1 km from centre
Pateaugeoire
6.3 km from centre
Olympic 50m pool
7.6 km from centre

Spas in Paris

Paris offers a variety of spas where visitors can unwind and rejuvenate. Options include Spa Belle Juliette and Les Jardins Suspendus, among other wellness destinations throughout the city. See all spas →

Spa Belle Juliette
1.3 km from centre
Les Jardins Suspendus
4.8 km from centre

Nightlife in Paris

Paris offers a diverse nightlife scene with venues ranging from intimate bars to energetic dance clubs. Whether you're looking for a night out at spots like Castel, Ava Club, or La Nuit, or prefer the relaxed atmosphere of establishments like Jangal and La Peña, the city has something for every evening. See all nightlife →

Jangal
1.2 km from centre
La Peña
1.3 km from centre
Ava Club
1.3 km from centre

Bars in Paris

Paris offers a diverse selection of bars and cafés where locals and visitors alike enjoy drinks and conversation. From establishments like Le Drop Café and Café Concorde to HÔme Bar and La Demesure Sur Seine - Ouest, the city's bar scene reflects both classic Parisian tradition and contemporary culture. See all bars →

Le Drop Café
209 m from centre
Café Concorde
261 m from centre
HÔme Bar
324 m from centre

Cafes in Paris

Paris offers a charming café culture where you can experience authentic French hospitality. From traditional spots like Le Solférino to casual options such as Creperie Saladerie and Au Petit Palais, the city's cafes provide the perfect setting to relax and soak in the Parisian atmosphere. See all cafes →

Le Café Suédois
143 m from centre
Creperie Saladerie
196 m from centre
Au Petit Palais
198 m from centre

Shopping in Paris

Paris is a world-class shopping destination offering everything from elegant department stores and historic arcades to vibrant local markets. Browse high-end fashion at Le Bon Marché, explore the Carrousel du Louvre, discover unique treasures at Deyrolle, visit the charming Beaupassage, or experience authentic Parisian culture at Saint-Honore Market. See all shopping →

Nature & Wildlife in Paris

Paris offers numerous natural escapes within the city, from charming squares like Square Samuel Rousseau and Place Gabriel García Márquez to peaceful gardens such as Jardin de l'Abondance and Potager. These green spaces provide visitors and locals alike with opportunities to experience nature and wildlife in the heart of the capital. See all nature & wildlife →

Square Samuel Rousseau
29 m from centre
Square d'Ajaccio
429 m from centre
Place Gabriel García Márquez
586 m from centre
Potager
614 m from centre
Jardin de l'Abondance
684 m from centre
Square Santiago du Chili
693 m from centre

Climate snapshot

Paris experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild seasons throughout the year. Winters are cool and often grey, while summers are warm and pleasant. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather ideal for sightseeing.

Interesting Facts About Paris — Weird & Wonderful

  • Paris is nicknamed the 'City of Light' mainly due to its leading role in the Age of Enlightenment.
  • Bastille Day, celebrated every 14 July, includes a military parade on the Champs-Élysées and features a dramatic flypast by the Patrouille de France.
  • Paris-Plages transforms the Right Bank of the Seine into a temporary beach during summer months.
  • The Carnaval de Paris is one of the oldest festivals in the city, dating back to the Middle Ages.
  • Paris is the fourth-most populous city in the European Union with a metropolitan population of 13.3 million.

Events & Festivals Not to Miss in Paris

14 July
Bastille Day
A celebration of the storming of the Bastille in 1789, the biggest festival in the city. Features a military parade on the Champs-Élysées from the Arc de Triomphe to Place de la Concorde, a flypast by the Patrouille de France, a parade of military units and equipment, and evening fireworks displays including a spectacular show at the Eiffel Tower.
Paris-Plages
A festive summertime event when the Right Bank of the Seine is converted into a temporary beach.
Journées du Patrimoine
A yearly festival celebrating heritage and culture in Paris.
Fête de la Musique
A yearly music festival held throughout Paris.
Nuit Blanche
A yearly festival featuring all-night cultural events and installations throughout the city.
Carnaval de Paris
One of the oldest festivals in Paris, dating back to the Middle Ages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Paris

What currency is used in Paris?

The Euro (EUR) is the currency used in Paris, as France is part of the European Union.

What language is spoken in Paris?

French is the official language spoken in Paris.

Where is Paris located?

Paris is located on the Seine in the centre of the Île-de-France region in northern France.

Why is Paris called the City of Light?

Paris earned the nickname 'City of Light' mainly due to its leading role in the Age of Enlightenment.

How large is Paris?

Paris covers an area of 105.4 km² (40.7 sq mi) and is the largest metropolitan area in the European Union.

What is the main celebration in Paris?

Bastille Day on 14 July is the biggest festival in the city, featuring a military parade on the Champs-Élysées and fireworks displays across the city.

Map of Paris

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