Paris Culture Guide

Life in Paris follows a European model that is unfamiliar to most Americans. Shopping is often done at small markets rather than at chain retailers or supermarkets. The sidewalk cafes that dominate so many Parisian street corners give an indication of how the locals eat. For a more in-depth experience, a multi-course meal at a larger restaurant will give visitors an experience in French cuisine that includes dishes that have and have not been imported to America.

As an older city, the streets of Paris are narrow, and traffic often moves slowly. Small cars are the norm, and mopeds are far more common than in America's urban areas. Taxis are plentiful, but walking is the main way of getting around.

Part of exploring Paris is getting to know its history. This can be unavoidable, as the city is dominated by landmarks that commemorate or figure in the Paris of yesterday. The Eiffel Tower, among the world's most recognized structures, was built in 1889 to celebrate the centennial of the French Revolution. Located on the famous Champs-Élysées boulevard, the Arc de Triomphe commemorates France's war dead and dates back to the era of Napoleon. For centuries, Notre Dame Cathedral has dominated the city's center as a reminder of France's Catholic past and the deeply ingrained religious traditions of Old Europe.

Paris is known around the world for its art. The Musée du Louvre is one of the most frequently visited museums in the world and houses a vast collection of art and artifacts, including Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa.

The Musée d'Orsay is another important art museum in Paris. It contains a more modern collection of work than that on display at the Louvre, including works by the impressionists.

Beyond the museums, Paris is full of art, from the public fountains and sculptures to the work on display in private galleries. Most historical buildings and municipal offices also contain important art in a less formal setting.

Paris is also a major European music center. Its two opera houses, the Opéra Garnier and the Opéra Bastille, are among the most renowned in Europe. Paris also has a long running theatrical tradition, highlighted by the numerous small theaters that populate its neighborhoods. The Théâtre de la Gaîté-Montparnasse is a more formal venue where many new productions make their debut. Many music halls from the Golden Age of Parisian music still operate, including the Olympia and the Bobino.

As a cosmopolitan city with cultural diversity, Paris is the home to many events and ceremonies. Large celebrations surround most Christian holidays, including Easter, Christmas and St. Valentine's Day. The Parisian Chinese community celebrates the Chinese New Year in the Quartier Chinois each February. Also, as a legacy of France's colonies in northern Africa, a number of traditional Arab holidays are celebrated.

International film festivals take place throughout the year in Paris. Other events include the May Day parade, held each May 1st to celebrate Parisian workers, and the annual Bastille Day celebration on July 14th to celebrate the establishment of the post-revolutionary government.