Paris

THE CITY OF LIGHT

As the sun dips below the horizon, Paris comes alive. Epic architecture illuminates reflecting off the Seine as evening sets in. But the name “City of Light” comes from the Age of Enlightenment, a post-Renaissance intellectual and philosophical movement of European ideas during the 17th and 18th centuries.

A city rich with culture, history, cuisine, and shopping, Parisian parks, and plazas invite locals to spread out a picnic blanket or relax on a bench, while art galleries, monuments, and event spaces attract visitors from around the world. Shops range from large department stores to quaint boutiques—some are even found within hidden, indoor corridors. Michelin-starred dining mingles effortlessly with quality-focused bistros and brasseries.

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BASICS:

Language: French
Currency: Euro €
When to go: Ideal April–June, or September–early November; 
Summer – generally hot; 
Winter – chilly and gray, but also cozy, Christmastime lights
Airport: Paris–Charles De Gaulle Airport (main) or Aéroport de Paris–Orly
Train station: Gare du Nord for RER B (Blue) to CDG airport or for high-speed Eurostar—direct routes to London, Brussels, and Amsterdam + Gare de Lyon + several other stations throughout the city, all adjacent to the Metro
Metro + RER: Local rail system makes Paris very accessible (more below), as well as connecting the greater Île-de-France region.
River: Batobus of Paris hop-on, hop-off river cruises on the Seine are a relaxing and scenic way to see the heart of the city
Arrondissements: 20 districts into which Paris is divided

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Paris Metro

One of the world’s best public transit systems, the extensive and user-friendly Metro tightly connects the inner city, creating a walkable center, while RER trains extend service into Grand Paris and continue into the greater Île-de-France region.

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