Île-de-France is the bustling region enclosing the capital city of ParisOpens in a new window. It comprises the historic suburbs of the famous metropolis and the parks, rivers and canals connecting smaller towns.
Visit the capital city for a glimpse into Parisian life and culture. Wander through the Tuileries GardenOpens in a new window, walk along the Seine River and see the Mona Lisa in Le LouvreOpens in a new window in the 1st ArrondissementOpens in a new window. Peruse glass-roofed shopping passages in the 2nd ArrondissementOpens in a new window and learn about Jewish and Chinese cultures in the 3rd ArrondissementOpens in a new window.
The 4th ArrondissementOpens in a new window, with the iconic Notre Dame de ParisOpens in a new window, also includes the gay quarter. Expand from the center to explore the Latin quarter, the bourgeois architecture of the 6th ArrondissementOpens in a new window and the Eiffel TowerOpens in a new window itself. The 18th ArrondissementOpens in a new window features the Moulin RougeOpens in a new window and the Sacre Coeur in MontmartreOpens in a new window. Relax in the vast Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and gaze up at the Temple de la Sybille overlooking the lake.
Outside the city are other French highlights. Bring the kids to the thrilling rides and magical ambiance of Disneyland Paris in Marne-la-ValléeOpens in a new window. Travel south to the charming town of Fontainebleau to see the majestic Château de Fontainebleau.
VersaillesOpens in a new window, southwest of Paris, contains the royal palace and gardens of King Louis XIV. Stay in the countryside to encounter other castles, such as the Château de Dampierre, the Château de Rambouillet and the Château de Monte-Cristo, where writer Alexandre Dumas once lived.
Fly to a Paris airport or travel by train from London or other European cities. Find the region in the central northern part of the country, surrounding Paris. It encompasses areas as far west as Mantes-la-Jolie and as far east as Provins. Visit the adjacent areas of Normandy and Grand Est.
Summers here are hot and pleasant. Expect harsh winters with wind, rain and occasional snow flurries that complement the lights of the Champs-ElyséesOpens in a new window in the lead-up to Christmas.
Île-de-France contains the enchanting city of Paris and many castles that decorate its wealthy suburban towns.
