Tourists and residents say they find Paris magical at night. A dazzling energy fills the air as excited chatter rises from cozy café tables outside, and a social buzz fills the streets with the many people mingling late into the evening.

When the sun sets, Paris doesn’t sleep. Instead, it comes alive with the glow of millions of lights throughout the city. There are nearly 300 illuminated sites around the city, including statues, fountains, monuments, churches and hotels.

In addition, 33 of Paris’ 37 major bridges are illuminated every night. The most famous illuminated object is the iconic Eiffel Tower, which shines brightly each night thanks to more than 20,000 light bulbs. IMB Photo