Essential Paris Facts

Knowing just a few things will make
your visit easier and more memorable

There are a few Paris facts that will help you prepare for your visit. Learn how to tip, ride the Metro, about the embassies, a bit of history of Paris, weather information and even what to wear in Paris.

Metro Sign at Hotel de Ville

Paris Facts Quick Links
Paris Facts Tourists Facts Paris Arrondissements Paris Maps	The History of Paris Paris Culture & Arts What to Wear in Paris Getting Around Paris	Paris Airports – CDG Airports Transfers Airport Taxis Paris Movies

Some Key Paris Facts

Let's start with a few interesting facts about this interesting city—

• Paris was the largest city in the world between the 16th and 19th centuries.
• The entire land area of Paris is a mere 40 square miles!
• Twenty percent of the entire population of France lives in the Paris metropolitan area.
• The population of the Paris metropolitan area is 12 million.
• All distances in France are measured from "Point Zero" in Paris, a round bronze plaque set in the pavement in front of Notre Dame.
• With about 42 million visitors per year to the Paris metropolitan area, it is the most visited city in the world.

Paris Facts for Tourists

Get Paris Insider advice on:

• Tipping
• Euro-to-dollar conversion
• Essential Paris etiquette tips.

Find out how the VAT tax works and how to save money with a VAT tax refund.

• More Paris Facts For Tourists »

Paris Arrondissements

Paris is made up of 20 arrondissements (or neighbourhoods) each with a distinct feel and atmosphere.

Learn what's where, discover the attractions in each of the arrondissements and which ones you'll want to pay close attention to.

• Guide to Paris Arrondissements »

The History of Paris

The first settlement at what is now Paris was founded 2300 years ago.

The first Parisiens were the Parisii, the Celtic people who were the original settlers. They were followed by the Romans, and then there were Franks and Gauls and... well, a lot of other people.

• Discover The History of Paris »

Paris Culture & Arts

Paris Facts. Arts, entertainment, fashion and museums are the integral components of Paris culture. Find out about how Parisians enjoy all the incredible Paris cultural activities —
• Free museums
• Other free stuff in Paris
• Explore the art scene in Paris
• And so much more…

• Guide to Paris Culture & Arts »

Paris Movies

Can't make it to Paris? Movies are the next best thing to being there. Building your own library of favorite Paris movies is a nice way to rekindle your memories of the City of Cinema, or to get in the mood for your next trip.

Read our guide to classic Paris movies to help pass the time until you make it across the Atlantic!

• Guide to Paris Movies »

Paris Movies Quick Links

What to wear in Paris

Want to be mistaken for a Parisienne? Learn how to plan your Paris wardrobe for functionality and fashion.

Parisians are known for their flair and you don't want to make a fashion fas paux on your Paris vacation. Find out what to wear in Paris, spring, summer, fall and winter.

• Learn What to Wear in Paris »

what to Wear in Paris Quick Links

The Population of Paris

Learn more Paris facts before you go. The population of Paris has grown from a few thousand Gauls to over two million Parisians, and has gone up and down over the centuries.

Find out when Paris was even more densely populated than it is now. what's the current population?

• Discover More About The Population of Paris »

Getting Around Paris

With so many transportation options, it's easy to get around Paris without spending a fortune, and certainly, absolutely, without renting a car!

Learn about the Paris taxis, the Velibs (bicycles) and the Paris city transportation system that include the Metro, the buses, the RER and the tramways. The great part of the urban transportation system? One Pass To Rule Them All »

Complete Guide to Getting Around Paris »

The Weather in Paris France

What weather to expect on your arrivel in Paris? Learn about the Paris seasons, and weather patterns to help plan your trip.

Guide to The Weather in Paris France »

Paris Airports – CDG

Charles de Gaulle and Orly are the two main Paris airports. Orly is used mainly for domestic flights and Charles de Gaulle (CDG) for international flights. So, CDG is most likely the airport you will arrive at and depart from.

Learn how to manoeuvre CDG and find out how to get from the airport to the city.

• Complete Guide to Paris Airports – CDG

Canadian & US Embassy Paris

The only time you're ever likely to need an embassy is if your passport has been lost or stolen, or if you have become stranded. In case of emergencies like these help is at hand in Paris for US and Canadian citizens at their respective embassies.