Paris, France's famously cosmopolitan capital city, is one of the world's best-loved and romanticised cities, and one of the largest in Europe. Located in the north of the country on the river Seine, many observers consider Paris an ideal of modern, urban living - progressive, stylish, arty and bohemian. More densely populated than Manhattan, with two million occupying its compact city centre, Paris nonetheless yields plenty of places where one can relax and reflect - in its suburban parklands, quiet neighbourhoods and vast array of museums.
Lovers of food, wine, art, music and fashion flock to experience the exquisite flavours of the city that justifiably holds the title of 'The Capital of Style'. It is adored by the romantics who stroll along the quays of the Seine, explore the delightful boutiques and markets, pass the time in its elegant parks and leafy squares, absorb the abundance of culture or linger over a coffee or candlelit dinner.
Paris City Facts
Metropolitan Paris Population: 9,854,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
France Population: 60,711,000 (Source: UN Population Estimate Revision 2003)
Paris Area: 1,200 square km
Telephone Codes: Paris city code is 1; to call France from abroad, dial +33. For calls to Parisian numbers from within Paris, dial 01.
Currency: Euro (€, EUR)
Time zone: GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz; round two-pin plugs are standard.
Language: French