In France, countless towns and villages are
Of course, Paris also has its twin cities. But the French capital holds a special position... Like Rome, Paris is paired with only one other city. The reason? “Only Paris is worthy of Rome, only Rome is worthy of Paris.” This motto lies at the heart of the relationship between the two cities.
Paris and Rome were the first two European capitals to be twinned, back in 1956. This initiative served as a symbol of reconciliation between the two nations, a decade after the end of World War II. Today, the cities are regarded as “sister cities” and maintain an exclusive relationship.
Town twinning spark vibrant exchanges between partnered cities: in Paris, this often takes the form of cultural festivals, concerts, exhibitions, meetings, and scientific collaborations... Residents of both cities even enjoy special perks! Parisians with proof of residence can access many museums in Rome for free, and the same goes for Romans visiting Paris.
In 2026, Paris and Rome mark a special milestone — the 70th anniversary of their twinning. To celebrate, a series of events and gatherings are planned across Paris. Here’s a look at the program.
Paris / Rome: Free Photo Exhibition on the Town Hall’s Gates
On the gates of City Hall, explore a curated collection of photographs that draws a striking quiet conversation between Rome and Paris. Free to visit from January 26 to February 26, 2026. [Read more]
Dolcevita on the Seine: the schedule for the open-air Italian film festival at the Arènes de Lutèce
La Dolcevita on the Seine is back from July 2 to 6, 2026, bringing a taste of Italy to Paris. For five days, enjoy film screenings and free activities at the Arènes de Lutèce! [Read more]
Italissimo 2026: The Italian Literature and Culture Festival in Paris — Dates and Featured Events
Italissimo, the festival celebrating Italian literature and culture, returns to Paris for a vibrant new edition from April 7 to 12, 2026. A perfect opportunity to explore the latest works in contemporary Italian writing and immerse yourself in this vibrant cultural scene. [Read more]
Why will the City Hall be lit up in the colors of Paris and Rome on January 30?
On Friday, January 30, 2026, if you find yourself near City Hall, you'll be able to see its facade lit up in the colors of Paris and Rome. But why will City Hall showcase the hues of these two European capitals? Here's what you need to know. [Read more]
In the footsteps of Catherine and Marie de Medici in Paris: a stroll in the footsteps of the Italian queens
Catherine and Marie de Medici left their mark on 16th- and 17th-century Paris. From the Tuileries to the aqueduct and the Medici Fountain, they shaped the capital, leaving an architectural and symbolic legacy that can still be seen today. [Read more]
Did you know? The statue of a famous Roman she-wolf is hidden in a Parisian square.
In front of the Sorbonne lies a sculpture with a strong symbolic link between Paris and Rome: a she-wolf. A replica of the Capitoline She-Wolf, it was donated to the French capital as part of the twinning agreement between the two cities, a reminder of the legend of Remus and Romulus. [Read more]
That's enough to inspire your wanderlust! In the meantime, why not indulge in some Italian cuisine from the comfort of home?
Italian restaurants in Paris, our best addresses
In the mood for Italian? Here are the best Italian restaurants in Paris to enjoy transalpine specialties! [Read more]
Why not take advantage of the warmer weather to discover what Paris's ice cream parlors have in store for us? Here are the best ice creams and sorbets in the capital! [Read more]
Italian restaurants in Paris, our best addresses
Ice cream shops where you can enjoy delicious artisanal ice cream in Paris, our favorite places by theme
