Guide to Paris and Ile-de-France

Explore the Paris & Ile-de-France Region

The region of Île-de-France is the historical heart of the country, showcasing some of the finest examples of the country's culture and creativity. It is like a jewellery box filled with treasures.

Iconic Parisian Landmarks

From l'Arc de Triomphe (off the Champs Elysées) to the Tour Eiffel, from the Louvre to the Palais de Versailles, from the Musée d'Orsay to the Saint-Denis basilica, from the famous Château de Fontainebleau to the medieval city of Provins, both listed on the UNESCO World Heritage register, Ile-de-France is the most visited museum in the world, with Paris at its very heart.

Natural Beauty and Activities

Ile-de-France, situated in north-central France, is renowned for its rich natural heritage and offers visitors a diverse array of activities. The region features several historic gardens, including those designed by Le Nôtre in the 17th century, as well as grand English-style parks and contemporary landscapes created by top gardeners.

Outdoor Fun in Ile de France

In addition, Ile-de-France has three regional nature reserves, with dozens of footpaths and a massive 667,200 acres of forest, providing ample space for numerous sporting activities. There are also thematic circuits perfect for cycling or horse riding, and over 700 kilometres of rivers and canals that crisscross the region, providing excellent walking opportunities.

Numerous Places to Visit

For families with young children, Disneyland and Parc Astérix are fantastic places to visit, and they are easily accessible from the capital by tube or motorway. The region is also known for its innovative trends, and Paris is home to numerous groundbreaking architectural and modern art pieces, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre Pyramid, the Centre Pompidou, the Grande Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, new towns, and contemporary art galleries.

Exciting Events and Festivities

Ile-de-France is also renowned for its festivities, which include shows and international events that put the region in the spotlight. The unforgettable Football World Cup in 1998, the World Athletics Championships in 2003, the Rugby World Cup in 2023, and the Olympic Games in 2024 are just a few of the fantastic events visitors can experience.

A Range of Opportunities

Ile-de-France is an exceptional region offering a wealth of recreational activities, cultural enrichment, and family-friendly opportunities. So if you're looking for a place with everything you need and much more, Paris, Ile-de-France would be an ideal destination.

Facts and Figures about the Region

• Capital City: Paris
• Population: Approx. 12.2 million (around 18% of France's total population)
• Area: 12,012 square kilometres (approx 4,638 square miles), about 2% of France's total area
• Density: About 1,017 inhabitants per sq. kilometre, well above the national average of 106

Tourism Information about Île-de-France

• Number of Tourists per Year: Approximately 38 million visitors annually
• Km of Coastline: The region is landlocked and does not have a coastline
• Km of Rivers: Over 2,000 km of rivers, including the Seine, Marne and Oise
• Highest Peak: Butte Montmartre (130 metres)
• Km of Cycling Paths: Over 1,500 kilometres
• Museums: Over 130 museums, including the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay and Centre Pompidou
• Most Famous Landmark: Eiffel Tower
• Another Notable Landmark: Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris
• Golf: Over 50 golf courses, including the Golf National, which hosts the French Open
• Monuments: Over 2,000 historical monuments, including Versailles and the Sainte-Chapelle

Getting to Paris - Île-de-France

The main cities are Paris, Versailles, Boulogne-Billancourt, Saint-Denis, and Argenteuil. They can be accessed using the road network (motorways, national and departmental roads), the train network, or by air. Here's a list of the region's airports and main train stations.

Airports

• Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport
• Paris Orly Airport
• Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport
• Paris Le Bourget Airport

Train Stations

• Gare du Nord
• Gare de Lyon
• Gare Saint-Lazare
• Gare de l'Est
• Gare Montparnasse
• Gare d'Austerlitz

Regional Tourist Hotspots in Île-de-France

• Paris: Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Montmartre, Champs-Élysées
• Versailles: Palace of Versailles, Gardens of Versailles
• Disneyland Paris: Europe's most visited theme park
• Fontainebleau: Château de Fontainebleau, Fontainebleau Forest
• Chantilly: Château de Chantilly, Chantilly Racecourse
• Saint-Denis: Basilica of Saint-Denis, Stade de France

National Parks and Forests

• Fontainebleau Forest
• Vexin Français Regional Nature Park
• Haute Vallée de Chevreuse Regional Nature Park

UNESCO Sites in the Region

• Palace and Park of Versailles
• Palace and Park of Fontainebleau
• Notre-Dame Cathedral, Former Abbey of Saint-Remi and Palace of Tau, Reims
• Paris, Banks of the Seine
• Chartres Cathedral

Economic Information about Paris - Île-de-France

• Economic Strength: Paris - Île-de-France is the economic heart of France, with a diverse and robust economy strong in finance, tourism, technology and services
• Key Industries: Finance, tourism, technology, services, fashion and healthcare
• Gross Domestic Product (GDP): approx. €700 billion (2022), around 30% of France's GDP
• Economy: Services approx 85% (finance, tourism, technology and innovation, fashion), Industry approx 10% (manufacturing, aerospace and defence) and agriculture with approx 5% (cereal crops, livestock farming, cheese and vineyards)
• Unemployment Rate: Approximately 7.5% (France’s national rate = 7.2%)
• Universities and Grandes Écoles: Notable institutions include the University of Paris (Sorbonne), École Polytechnique, HEC Paris, Sciences Po, and École Normale Supérieure
• Regional Specialities: Paris - Île-de-France is renowned for its gastronomy, numerous cafés, and a diverse range of dishes, including escargots, coq au vin, and international cuisine from around the world. The region is also known for its pastries, including croissants, macarons, and éclairs

Paris Real Estate Prices (per Square Metre)

The value of real estate in Île-de-France continues to increase; you must be sharp, as properties sell quickly and competition is fierce. If you are looking to buy or invest in (or near) Paris, please share your plans with us. We can help you learn about mortgages and our bespoke à la Carte service, dedicated to busy professionals and investors.

Real Estate Prices and Trends in Paris

• Houses - the average price per sq. metre: €11,574 (source Fnaim - 2025)
• Apartments - average price per sq. metre: €9,721 (source Fnaim - 2025)
• Price trends - average price change over the last 12 months: -0.0 %

Prices and Trends in Ile-de-France

•     Houses - the average price per sq. metre: €3,932 (source Fnaim - 2025)
•     Apartments - average price per sq. metre: €5,926 (source Fnaim - 2025)
•     Price trends - average price change over the last 12 months: -2.4 %

 

The Heart of France

Paris - Île-de-France is France's economic and cultural heart, offering a unique blend of history, art, and modernity that has influenced the entire country, the continent, and beyond. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the historic Palace of Versailles, the region is a must-visit for tourists worldwide.

Whether you're interested in art, history, fashion, or gastronomy, the region has something for everyone. For more information, discover our fun and quirky facts about Paris, la ville lumière!