Things to do in Île-de-France

All about Île-de-France

When to visit

Summer is undoubtedly the busiest time in Île-de-France. National holidays like Bastille Day see cities and towns light up with fireworks and celebrations; the Tour de France brings out the cycling fans; and festivals like the Fête de la Musique prompt revelry. But if you’re looking to escape the crowds, aim for autumn instead. Versailles and Disneyland Paris won’t be quite so hectic, harvest is taking place in the region’s vineyards, and Paris is most moodily romantic.

Getting around

As Île-de-France’s central hub, Paris is very well-connected. Its three principal airports, Charles de Gaulle, Orly, and Beauvais, link it with international and domestic destinations, as do its six major train stations (Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon, Gare de l’Est, Gare Saint-Lazare, Gare d’Austerlitz, and Gare Montparnasse). The Métro, RER trains, and various bus lines crisscross the city and to destinations beyond the Périphérique, while Seine River cruises provide a less conventional way to explore.

Traveler tips

Love cheese? You’re in the right place. Île-de-France is home to the town of Meaux, which gives its name to Brie de Meaux: one of the country’s most popular (and geographically protected) cheeses. It’s less than an hour by direct train from the Gare de l’Est to Meaux, where you can head to the Maison du Brie de Meaux to learn about its history and production (and then venture to a local restaurant or cheesemonger to do some sampling).

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Île-de-France best known for?

Île-de-France is best known for being the home to Paris. The small but densely populated region contains the French capital and surrounding countryside. But beyond Paris’s charms, Île-de-France also boasts highlight attractions like Disneyland Paris, the Palace of Versailles, the Palace of Fontainebleau, medieval towns like Provins, and much more.

Why should I visit Île-de-France?

It’s worth visiting Île-de-France for Paris, for starters: the French capital is home to world-famous museums like the Louvre, icons like the Eiffel Tower, and its endlessly diverting culture and cuisine. But you should also visit Île-de-France for palaces like Versailles, Disneyland Paris, and Saint-Denis’s landmark Gothic cathedral.

What is the difference between Paris and Île-de-France?

Île-de-France is one of the 18 regions of France, located in the north-central area of the country. It is home to Paris, France’s capital city, but its boundaries extend beyond the city’s borders. Beyond Paris, some of the region’s highlights include Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Disneyland Paris.

What is the climate like in Île-de-France?

The Île-de-France region has a temperate, continental climate. It is generally mild and wet throughout the year, though the region can experience occasional powerful heat waves in the summer. In the winter, the weather in Île-de-France is typically overcast, though temperatures usually remain above freezing, and snow is relatively unusual.

Is Île-de-France a town?

No, Île-de-France is not a town. Its name translates to “Isle of France,” one of France’s 18 regions. Île-de-France is best known for containing Paris, the French capital. However, its boundaries extend beyond the city and encompass the surrounding countryside (plus landmarks like Versailles and Disneyland Paris).

Is Île-de-France good?

Yes, Île-de-France is an excellent place to explore. The area is home to Paris—one of the world’s most popular and most visited cities, with an enormous wealth of cultural and historical attractions—and comprises highlight destinations like the Palace of Versailles and Disneyland Paris, plus picturesque countryside.

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