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Paris reveres the art of photography probably more than any other city in the world and every alternate November (in even-numbered years) it hosts the “Month of the Photo”. Galleries, museums, shops, cultural centres and many other venues all give space to exhibitions, workshops and lectures on all aspects of the art. For anyone interested in photography, it is the most exciting time to visit Paris.

Paris is home to jazz all year round (see Jazz Clubs), but every summer there is a major jazz festival in the city. Acts from all over the world come to play in the Parc Floral de Paris in the Bois de Vincennes, but there are many lesser venues involved as well.

Runners start at the Champs-Elysées and end at avenue Foch.

Parisian high society flocks to this up-market horse race.

This world-renowned horse race attracts the city’s crème de la crème .

Europe’s biggest horse race in terms of prize money takes place at the Hippodrome de Longchamp in the Bois de Boulogne. Entry to the lawns is free, but a small admission charge is payable for the enclosure.

The French team plays against England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales or Italy in this spring tournament.

The haute couture houses of Paris launch their Summer Collections in January and their Winter Collections in July, when the eyes of the world fashion trade focus on the city. Major events take place in the Carrousel du Louvre, giving an indication of their status. Visit the fashion houses in person at least one month in advance to see if there are tickets available.

This great cycle race reaches its climax in Paris.

Don’t miss this summer highlight if you really want to understand the French passion for cycling. Towards the end of July each year, the world’s greatest and most gruelling cycle race approaches Paris. The final stage is the Champs-Elysées, when thousands of fans pack the street to cheer the riders home and see who will win the coveted Yellow Jersey.