What's Paris known for? Cool things about the city of love!

If I say Paris, you're likely thinking of the Eiffel Tower, wine, cheese, and baked goods. Bien sur, it's the city of love, but there's so much more to it. 

Whether you're spending three days in Paris or have an extended layover through CDG airport, there's a reason Paris is an iconic city that many people around the world come to explore. 

Even if Paris isn't your next vacation spot, it's a great bucket list destination. Curious why Paris is so famous and renowned among travelers? There are many things that Paris is known for, so let's dive into the features that make this city so famous!

Where is Paris?

There are a couple of places named Paris worldwide, so let's ensure we're on the same page. Paris is the capital city of France, located in the northern central part of the country. With a population of over 2 million, it's also the biggest city in France.

If you're headed to Paris on your next trip to France, this guide to the best places to stay in Paris is a great way to find budget-friendly accommodations. 

What Food is Paris Known for?

I don't know about you, but the food at a destination is one of the most important things I can discover when I travel. Paris is home to several top restaurants, but you can also indulge in French cuisine without breaking the bank. 

No trip to France is complete without pastries, and Paris is no exception. It's easy to find baguettes, pain au chocolat, or croissants around every corner. Paris is well known for leaving your stomach satisfied between patisseries and food carts.

If restaurants aren't your speed, Paris also has several famous French food markets. Called marchés in French, these are where Parisians mingle to buy fresh food. Every arrondissement is home to its own marché, giving Paris more food-related areas to explore.

Cafés are also a must-visit in Paris. Dining en terrasse is quintessentially Parisian, especially with a coffee in hand. While you have famous cafés like Café de Flor⁠—famous before Emily in Paris⁠—you'll find quaint cafés along most Parisian streets. 

Here are some other French dishes that make French cuisine what it is in Paris:

• Crêpes
• Croque-monsieur
• Cheese
• Macarons
• Wine

This guide to food in Paris is a must-read for foodies making their way to Paris!

What is Famous in Paris?

Apart from being France's capital, Paris is well known for its architecture, landmarks, and history. No matter your travel goals, there are several must-sees in Paris.

Museums

France's art scene is on par with its food scene, so it's no wonder there are hundreds of museums in Paris to visit. Whether you visit the famous Louvre or try the less famous Museum of Natural History, there's a museum in Paris for every taste.

Landmarks

The Eiffel Tower isn't the only well-known sight in Paris! Throughout the city, you can visit:

• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Sacre Cœur
• Arc de Triomphe
• Catacombs
• Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Moulin Rouge

Paris has been around for centuries, so you can easily find buildings from multiple eras. Even if you're not a history nerd, it's worth looking out for them to see such old architecture preserved. 

If you're wondering what sights to prioritize, these 11 best things to do in Paris are a great place to start.  

Arrondissements

Paris is divided into 20 neighborhoods called arrondissements, and each has its own vibe, history, and corners to explore. Paris is known for how these arrondissements blend together and yet offer their unique Parisian flair. 

Not sure which neighborhood is which? The guide to Paris neighborhoods is here to help!

Fashion

As one of the world's fashion capitals, Paris is known for its haute couture and famous fashion designers. Names like Dior, Givenchy, Louis Vuitton, and Jean Paul Gautier all have headquarters in Paris. Fashion's biggest event, Paris Fashion Week, is also hosted in Paris. 

It's also a thing that Parisians dress nicely in their day-to-day lives. While there's no pressure to dress a certain way while traveling, your Paris trip is definitely a good time to try out those nice travel outfits!

Architecture

While it's true that many European cities have cobblestones, you'll find many streets with them in Paris. As you walk along them, you'll notice the famous Haussmann architecture. This is the architecture associated with Paris, and you'll recognize it instantly. 

You can also find beautiful architecture in the most unassuming of places. Galeries Lafayette, a major French department store, has a beautiful interior. It's worth walking in to see the inside, and the clothes too, of course.

Try going on a walking tour to get the lay of the land in Paris. It's a great way to see the sights and get to know the city.  

Transport

Paris' metro is bustling at all hours of the day, and lines are numbered and easy to follow, no matter your French level. Not only that, but Paris is home to several train stations, making day trips in and out of the country easy to achieve. 

Disney Paris

It's not Paris' claim to fame, but there is a Disney property in Paris called Disneyland Paris! As the only European Disney property, Paris is known for being home to Mickey Mouse and his friends. 

Why is Paris Called the City of Love?

Not only is Paris full of sights and history, but it's also a romantic city. There's no exact reason for the nickname, but Paris has proved over and over to be a romantic setting in films and novels. It's also a city that has inspired countless artists.

If you're looking for a romantic spin during your trip to Paris, take in the city at night. Paris at night is filled with lights, music, and love! You can also visit the Wall of Love l and take in those three words in over 200 languages. 

Go on a treasure hunt to discover the most romantic locations in Paris. 

What are Five Interesting Facts About Paris?

In case you ever find yourself in a pub quiz, these fun Paris facts might come in handy:

5. Paris is also called the City of Light

Another nickname for Paris is the City of Light, but not because of the sparkly Eiffel Tower lights. It's actually because Paris was one of the first cities to install streetlights!

4. Notre Dame is the center of Paris

Also known as "Point Zero," all distances in Paris are measured from Notre Dame!

3. The first photograph of people was taken in Paris

In 1838 to be exact!

2. The Paris metro is one of the busiest in Europe

While getting around Paris is easy, you might find yourself in a crowd to do so. With 304 stations on 16 lines, the Paris metro is always brimming with people. The only busier European metro service is in Moscow. 

1. There's a Statue of Liberty in Paris

There are actually five more miniature replicas of the famous New York statue. While initially a gift from the French to the US, Paris still holds replicas you can enjoy. 

On y va to Paris!

Hopefully, this information will help you plan your next trip to Paris! As you start planning your Parisian adventure, use Pilot to keep track of everything.