Paris is the capital of France and the country's largest city. It is situated on the river Seine, in northern France, at the heart of the Île-de-France region (also known as the "Paris Region"; French: Région parisienne). The city of Paris, within its limits largely unchanged since 1860, has an estimated population of 2,167,994 (January 2006), but the Paris aire urbaine (or metropolitan area) has a population of nearly 12 million, and is one of the most populated metropolitan areas in Europe. An important settlement for more than two millennia, Paris is today one of the world's leading business and cultural centres, and its influence in politics, education, entertainment, media, fashion, science and the arts all contribute to its status as one of the world's major global cities. According to 2005 estimates, the Paris urban area is Europe's biggest city economy, and is fifth in the world's list of cities by GDP.

Paris for some, represents a city of romance, for others, the French capital is a sparkling mix of writers and artists. The city's people are stylish and flirtatious, its architecture seductive, its restaurants and nightlife devoted to the pursuit of pleasure and its streets are scattered with dreams. On all levels – historical, architectural, and cultural – this is a fascinating city.

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Another draw is its scale. Paris is relatively small as capitals go, with many of its major sights and museums within easy walking distance from each other. The River Seine splits the city into the Rive Droite (Right Bank) north of the river and the Rive Gauche (Left Bank) south of the river. The city is divided into 20 arrondissements (districts), which spiral out from the centre like a conch shell. City addresses always include the number of the arrondissement, such as: 15 rue Malte-Brun, 20th (arrondissement).

Walking can be an enjoyable way to explore. Pick up the handy city map Plan de Paris (a booklet with a complete street-name and métro index, easily found in bookstores and tabacs) and simply stroll to your heart's delight. Métro stations also have a detailed neighbourhood map just inside the entrance. Paris is just 10km by 11km, easily explored on foot or via the efficient transport system. There is almost always a metro station within 500 metres of wherever you want to go.

Go up the Eiffel Tower, walk along the Seine at dusk or sip coffee at an elegant sidewalk café surrounded by artists or musicians; all of these are unique Parisian experiences. For the art lover, the Musee d'Orsay and the Louvre offer priceless collections, and the designer shops of the Rue du Faubourg St. Honore tempt the serious shopper. For those who enjoy food, Paris' restaurants are world-renowned and you are sure to find new taste sensations as well as old favourites. There is an otherworldliness to this city, where beauty and elegance are favoured over purpose and practicality. Centuries of urban development have the appearance of having been mastered by a single hand with a strong sense of balance, contrast and aesthetics. The views from the Eiffel Tower or Sacré Coeur reveal hundreds of iconic attractions for the snapshot visitor, but the best way to see this city is by tucking your map back in your pocket and allowing yourself to get lost on its streets and avenues.