Paris Travel Guide

Paris, the cosmopolitan capital of France, has the reputation of being the most beautiful and romantic of all cities, brimming with historic associations and remaining vastly influential in the realms of culture, art, fashion, food and design. Dubbed the City of Light (la ville lumière) and the City of Love (la ville de l'amour), Paris is home to some of the world's finest and most luxurious fashion designers and cosmetics, such as Chanel, Christian Dior, Yves Saint-Laurent, Guerlain, Lancôme, L'Oréal, and Clarins. A large part of the city, including the banks of the River Seine, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city has the second highest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world (after Tokyo, which is much larger) and contains numerous iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame de Paris, the Louvre, the Moulin Rouge and the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, making it one of the most popular international tourist destinations in the world, with aro

49.00982.56121Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport(CDGIATA), is the primary airport. Colloquially known as Roissy Airport, it is north of the city and is used mainly for long haul flights. The airport consists of three terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, connected by the CDGVAL people mover. It is connected to Paris by train, bus and taxi. SeeParis Charles de Gaulle Airportfor details.

Paris has an excellent public transport system that spans every inch of the city. It is well-known for itsMétro(short forChemin de fer métropolitain, "Metropolitan Railway"),RER(short forRéseau Express Régional, "Regional Express Network,"), andTransilienrail networks. The Métro, RER and Transilien are complemented by a large network of trams and buses.

Despite what many naysayers might say or believe, Paris is still a relatively safe city. This does not stop it from being plagued by pettycrime, especiallypickpocketing, and muggings. Scams, of which there are many, are also prevalent, though the police are slowly cracking down on them. While not common, purse snatchings do happen. Violent crime is rare. However, watch yourself at ATMs and other places where your cash may be visible. Keep your money and your wallet in your front pockets, and avo

Being often declared the most popular travel destination in the world, Paris has far over a thousand hotels to choose from, and even more in the surroundingIle-de-Franceregion. The choice may be overwhelming, but should be made carefully. There are huge differences in standards and location is key to make your stay in Paris enjoyable and time used well. Be prepared to pay the price for Paris' popularity - even the cheap hotels are relatively expensive.