Paris

Paris is one of the most beloved cities in the world. Around 19 million tourists flocked to the City of Love in 2019 and enjoyed the charm of its romantic quarters with their intimate cafés, the panache of its big fashion houses and the art of its world-famous museums. Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements (districts), which are best explored on foot, by metro or by bike, which can be hired easily on every streetcorner. Because of the spiral numbering system, they are also referred to as l'escargot (the snail) by the city’s residents.

Everyone knows it and everyone loves it: the symbol of Paris is the Eiffel Tower. Every year, France’s tallest building attracts seven million visitors who come to enjoy stunning views of Paris from its lofty height. The Arc de Triomphe on the Champs-Élysées, Notre-Dame, Sacré-Cœur on Montmartre and the Louvre, the most visited museum in the world, are among the most popular sights and are of course legendary. The banks of the Seine and the many beautiful Parisian parks such as the Jardin des Tuileries or the Jardin du Luxembourg bid you take a moment to relax and take a stroll. Outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles and Disneyland are the main crowd pullers.

Paris can be noisy and crowded, especially in the high season. Far away from the well-known sights and thronging crowds, the trendy arrondissements in particular, which are becoming increasingly popular with young people, offer both variety and tranquillity. Here, you’ll find lively markets, covered passages, green oases and the best bakeries in the city: in Marais, Montparnasse or Canal St Martin little treasures are just waiting to be discovered. Accept their offer of cultural diversity and picturesque streets, and start your voyage of discovery.

Picture source title: © Olena Zn / Adobe Stock

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