Why Paris Is Called The City Of Lights And How To See It Shine

Paris has long been called the "City of Lights," but the nickname means much more than sparkling streets and glowing monuments. It is a title earned through centuries of innovation, intellect, and pure artistry. From King Louis XIV's lantern-lit boulevards to the cafés where philosophers once shaped the Enlightenment, Paris has always been a city that shines, literally and figuratively. Even today, as 20,000 bulbs on the Eiffel Tower twinkle each night, the French capital continues to glow with history, energy, and charm. Here is why Paris truly deserves to be called the City of Lights.

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Here's Why Paris Is Called The City Of Lights:

1. Because Paris Lit Up the Mind Too

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The phrase "City of Lights" later took on a deeper meaning during the 18th-century Enlightenment. This was the time when Paris became the beating heart of new ideas, philosophy, and debate.

Writers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu filled cafés and salons with conversations about freedom, reason, and reform. "Light" came to symbolise knowledge and progress-the opposite of ignorance.

So yes, Paris glowed on the outside. But it also glowed within. It became the place where both lamps and minds burned bright.

2. Because Paris Was the First City to Shine

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By the 19th century, Paris had upgraded from lanterns to gas lamps. The result? A city that shimmered like no other.

• By the 1820s, there were more than 50,000 gas lamps across the city.
• The glow of the boulevards became famous across Europe.
• Travellers described it as the "world's most beautiful city at night."

When electricity arrived, Paris adopted it quickly. From bridges to monuments, light became part of the city's art and identity.

3. Because It Still Glows Today

Paris did not just invent night lighting-it perfected it. The city still invests heavily in illumination, balancing beauty and sustainability.

Every evening, Paris comes alive with light:

• The Eiffel Tower sparkles with 20,000 bulbs for five minutes every hour.
• More than 290 monuments are illuminated nightly.
• Even café terraces and bookshops seem to glow.

It is not only the landmarks that shine, but the way light weaves through everyday life. Walk across Pont Neuf at dusk or watch the city's reflection in the Seine-you will understand why the nickname never faded.

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Fun Travel Facts About Paris

• A few things that make Paris even more dazzling:

• The first street lighting in Paris began in 1667-making it Europe's first truly illuminated city.
• The term "City of Lights" originally referred to both street lighting and the Age of Enlightenment.
• Paris's annual Nuit Blanche festival (meaning "Sleepless Night") celebrates art installations that light up the city every October.
• The Eiffel Tower's lights use 100% renewable energy.
• Paris spends roughly €9 million a year maintaining its night lighting system.

How To Visit Paris From India

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Travelling from India to Paris is easier than ever.

Flights:

• Direct flights operate from Delhi and Mumbai to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (Air India, Air France, Vistara).
• Average flight time: 9-10 hours.

Visa:

• Indian travellers require a Schengen visa for France.
• Apply at least 15-20 days before departure.

Getting Around:

• The Metro is the fastest and cheapest way to travel within Paris.
• Walking is highly recommended-many of the city's most scenic spots are best seen on foot.

Best Time To Visit Paris

The beauty of Paris changes with every season, but some months make the city's light even more magical.

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Spring (April to June):

• Pleasant weather, blooming gardens, and longer evenings.
• Ideal for night walks by the Seine.
• Autumn (September to November):
• Soft golden sunsets and fewer crowds.
• Perfect for night photography.

Winter (December to February):

• Paris shines brightest during the festive season.
• Christmas markets, glittering streets, and fewer tourists.

The Light That Never Fades

Paris is not called the "City of Lights" by accident. It earned that name through centuries of innovation, intellect, and imagination.

From lanterns and gas lamps to LED art shows and sparkling towers, Paris continues to prove that light is not only something you see-it is something you feel. And in this city, it is impossible not to.