Paris, the “City of Light,” attracts millions of tourists every year, drawn by its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. While Paris has long been a popular destination, the surge in mass tourism has taken its toll on the city.
Famous sites are often overcrowded, and lines for attractions can stretch for hours. Short-term rentals have driven up housing prices, and locals have expressed frustration with the overwhelming number of visitors. Paris is now trying to manage tourism more effectively by promoting lesser-known neighborhoods and encouraging off-peak travel.
Originally built for various reasons, from defensive fortifications to storage and religious sanctuaries, many of these underground cities have endured over centuries, preserving fascinating glimpses into past lives and cultures.