Discover Île-de-France, the vibrant heart of French tourism, where culture, gastronomy, and innovation come together. Whether you are a travel professional or a passionate explorer, discover all that this iconic region has to offer.
Quick Overview
- Regional Capital: Paris
- Population: ~12 million
- Area: 12,012 km²
- Departments: 8 (Paris, Seine-et-Marne, Yvelines, Essonne, Hauts-de-Seine, Seine-Saint-Denis, Val-de-Marne, Val-d’Oise)
Access & Transportation
The Paris Region is Europe’s leading air hub, offering extensive nonstop connectivity from major U.S. gateways.
Major Airports:
- Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) – Main international gateway; one of Europe’s busiest airports
- Paris Orly Airport (ORY) – Serves domestic, European, and select international routes
- Paris Le Bourget Airport – Dedicated to business aviation
Rail & Ground Transportation:
- High-speed rail connections (TGV) to major French and European cities
- Eurostar access to London via Gare du Nord
- Extensive regional train (RER) and metro network
- The Grand Paris Express expansion project enhancing connectivity to greater Paris attractions
The 8 Departments of the Paris Region
The region includes 8 departments, offering diverse experiences beyond central Paris.
Paris (75) – Culture, Luxury & MICE Capital
Home to world-famous landmarks including:
- Eiffel Tower
- Louvre Museum
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Sacré-Cœur
Tourism profile:
- Cultural & heritage tourism
- Luxury travel
- Gastronomy & shopping
- Major global trade shows and congresses
- River cruises along the Seine
Paris alone hosts hundreds of international events annually, making it one of the world’s top MICE destinations.
Seine-et-Marne (77) – Family & Heritage Tourism
- Disneyland Paris – Europe’s leading theme park destination
- Château de Fontainebleau – UNESCO-listed royal residence
- Nature tourism: forests, outdoor activities, charming villages
Target markets: Families, multi-generational travel, leisure extensions
Yvelines (78) – Royal & Cultural Heritage
- Palace of Versailles – One of the most visited cultural sites in the world
Tourism profile:
Luxury cultural tourism, day trips, history-focused itineraries
Hauts-de-Seine (92) – Business & Contemporary Culture
- La Défense – Europe’s largest purpose-built business district
Strong corporate travel and event infrastructure.
Seine-Saint-Denis (93) – Heritage & Major Events
- Basilica of Saint-Denis – Burial site of French kings
- Stade de France – Major sports and concert venue
Growing cultural and event-driven tourism.
Essonne (91), Val-de-Marne (94), Val-d’Oise (95)
- River tourism along the Seine and Marne
- Gardens, parks, and rural escapes
- Impressionist heritage sites
- Château experiences and boutique stays
Ideal for:
- Thematic itineraries (art, gardens, gastronomy)
- Slow travel
- Luxury countryside extensions
Website of the Tourist Office : https://www.visitparisregion.com/en
