Cité Internationale - black spiral staircase with black metal railings
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Cité Internationale

4.6
·491k reviews·Lyon, France

A unique international campus showcasing global architecture and fostering a vibrant multicultural community for students and researchers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring and Fall

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
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Cité Internationale - black spiral staircase with black metal railings

Cité Internationale

Best Time

Spring and Fall

Pleasant weather for exploring

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A unique international campus showcasing global architecture and fostering a vibrant multicultural community for students and researchers.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Wander through a living museum of global architecture and experience a vibrant melting pot of cultures."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Research Each House

Don't just apply to the Cité; research individual houses for unique vibes & amenities.

⏰ Apply Early for Housing

Housing demand is high. Submit your application for the Cité Internationale well in advance.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Diversity

Architectural Diversity

Throughout the campus

Wander through a living museum of global architecture, from Swiss chalets to Japanese pagodas. Each house tells a unique story.

International Community Hub

International Community Hub

Common areas and gardens

Experience a vibrant melting pot of cultures. Connect with students and researchers from around the world.

Peaceful Green Spaces

Peaceful Green Spaces

Gardens and parks

Escape the city bustle in serene gardens and tree-lined avenues, perfect for study or relaxation.

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Planning Your Visit

Secure Your Spot Early

Demand for housing at the Cité Internationale is high, especially for international students. Apply well in advance of your program start date to increase your chances of securing accommodation. Explore individual house websites for specific application timelines and requirements. Reddit

Understand the Unique Housing Model

The Cité Internationale isn't a single dormitory but a collection of distinct houses, each with its own administration and architectural style. Research the specific house that best suits your needs and preferences before applying. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring and Fall
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays during academic terms
Why
Experience student life
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Anyone have experience or recommendations of living at Cité Universitaire?

🎯 Research Each House

Don't just apply to the Cité; research individual houses for unique vibes & amenities. Reddit

⏰ Apply Early for Housing

Housing demand is high. Submit your application for the Cité Internationale well in advance. Reddit

reddit.com

Experiences at Cité internationale universitaire de Paris

reddit.com

Anyone staying at Cité Universitaire?

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

The campus is vast and beautiful. Allow ample time to wander and admire the diverse architecture. :walking:

reddit.com

Incoming exchange student question- Cité Universitaire Internationale de Paris?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Research Each House

Don't just apply to the Cité; research individual houses for unique vibes & amenities. Reddit

⏰ Apply Early for Housing

Housing demand is high. Submit your application for the Cité Internationale well in advance. Reddit

🚶‍♂️ Explore the Grounds

The campus is vast and beautiful. Allow ample time to wander and admire the diverse architecture. :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Cité Internationale is highly praised for its unique architectural diversity and the vibrant international community it fosters. Visitors and residents alike appreciate the peaceful green spaces and the opportunity to experience global cultures. However, the application process for housing can be competitive and complex, and some find the on-site dining options limited for non-residents.

What People Like

Stunning global architecture
Multicultural community
Peaceful green spaces

What People Dislike

Competitive housing applications
Limited visitor dining

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Cité Internationale is easily accessible via public transport. The closest RER B station is 'Cité Universitaire,' which connects directly to central Paris and both Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. Several bus lines also serve the area, making it convenient to reach from various parts of the city. Reddit

Yes, the campus is well-laid out with clear signage. It's a large area, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring all the different houses and green spaces. :athletic_shoe:

While driving is possible, parking within the Cité can be challenging and is often restricted. Public transport is generally the most convenient and recommended way to access the Cité Internationale. :car:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Cité Internationale campus itself is generally open to visitors to walk around and admire the architecture. However, access to specific houses or residences may be restricted to residents or authorized personnel. There are no general admission tickets required to explore the grounds. :ticket:

The grounds of the Cité Internationale are typically accessible during daylight hours. Specific house opening times may vary, and some may have limited access outside of resident hours. It's best to check individual house websites if you plan to visit a particular building. :clock:

Applying for housing at the Cité Internationale involves researching individual houses listed on their official website. Each house has its own application process, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. It's crucial to start this process well in advance of your intended move-in date. Reddit

The application process for the Cité Internationale is managed by each individual house. You'll typically need to submit an online application, provide academic transcripts, proof of enrollment, and potentially references. Early application is highly recommended due to high demand. Reddit

There are no general admission fees to walk around the Cité Internationale campus. However, if you are applying for housing, there will be application fees and, of course, rent and deposit costs associated with securing accommodation. :moneybag:

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Cité Internationale is renowned for its stunning and diverse architecture, representing over 40 different nations. You can explore the unique buildings, enjoy the peaceful gardens, and soak in the international atmosphere. Some houses may offer cultural events or exhibitions. :camerawithflash:

Absolutely! The Cité Internationale is a photographer's dream, with its incredible variety of architectural styles from around the world. Each house offers unique visual opportunities, making it a fantastic location for architectural and cultural photography. :iphone:

You can expect a vibrant, multicultural, and academic atmosphere. It's a hub for international students and researchers, fostering a sense of global community and intellectual exchange. The grounds are generally peaceful and conducive to study. :world_map:

While the primary amenities are for residents (like dining halls and study spaces), visitors can often find cafes or small eateries within some of the houses or nearby. The extensive gardens and common areas are also available for everyone to enjoy. :coffee:

You can generally walk around the exteriors of the houses and admire their architecture. Access to the interiors might be limited to residents, guests of residents, or during specific open days or events. It's best to check with individual house administrations for interior access policies. :door:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Residents have access to dining halls within their respective houses. For visitors, there are cafes and restaurants located on the Cité campus itself, as well as numerous options in the surrounding 14th arrondissement of Paris, offering a wide range of cuisines. :foodandwine:

The resident dining halls often provide relatively affordable meal options for students. For visitors, exploring the local eateries in the surrounding neighborhoods can yield budget-friendly choices, from bakeries to bistros. :euro:

📸 📸 Photography

Every house is a photographic gem! The Fondation Suisse, Maison du Japon, and the Pavillon Suisse are particularly striking. Don't miss the diverse facades and the beautifully landscaped gardens that connect them. :camerawithflash:

Yes, taking photos of the exteriors of the buildings for personal use is generally permitted. However, always be respectful of residents' privacy and avoid intrusive photography, especially if entering any common areas. :iphone:

The 'golden hours' – early morning and late afternoon – offer beautiful light for capturing the architectural details and the serene atmosphere of the campus. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities. :sunrise:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Cité Internationale is primarily for students and researchers, families visiting Paris can enjoy a unique outing by exploring its grounds. The expansive gardens offer plenty of space for children to run around, and the diverse architecture provides a visually stimulating experience. It’s a safe and peaceful environment, perfect for a relaxed afternoon stroll. :parkwithswing:

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, making it a budget-friendly and enjoyable family activity. Pointing out the different country flags and the unique building styles can turn the visit into an educational adventure. It’s a great way to introduce children to different cultures and architectural designs in a fun, informal setting. :child:

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Cité Internationale is a dream destination for photographers, offering an unparalleled collection of global architecture in one location. Each house is a distinct masterpiece, from the sleek modernist designs to traditional vernacular styles. The interplay of light and shadow across the varied facades, especially during the golden hours, provides endless photographic opportunities. TikTok

Beyond the buildings, the beautifully landscaped gardens offer serene backdrops and interesting compositions. It’s an ideal spot for architectural, cultural, and even portrait photography. Remember to be mindful of residents and their privacy, but generally, exterior photography is welcomed. :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A World of Architecture

The Cité Internationale is a unique architectural showcase, featuring over 40 residential houses, each designed by a different architect and representing the style of a specific country. This creates a truly global campus experience right in Paris. From the modernist lines of the Fondation Suisse by Le Corbusier to the traditional Japanese aesthetics of the Maison du Japon, the diversity is astounding. Wandering through the Cité is like taking a world tour without leaving the city limits. Reddit

Many of these houses were built between the two World Wars, intended to foster international understanding and provide affordable housing for students and researchers. The project was initiated by André Honnorat and Émile Deutsch de la Meurthe, with the goal of creating a peaceful intellectual hub. The Pavillon Suisse, also designed by Le Corbusier, is a prime example of functionalist architecture and a significant landmark within the Cité. Reddit

For visitors, the Cité offers a fantastic opportunity for architectural photography and a peaceful escape. The well-maintained gardens and tree-lined avenues provide a serene backdrop, making it a delightful place to stroll and discover hidden gems. Remember to be respectful of the residents and their privacy as you explore this extraordinary international village. :camerawithflash:

Living and Applying for Housing

The Cité Internationale is primarily a residential campus for students and researchers, offering a unique living experience in Paris. It's not a hotel or a typical dormitory; instead, it's a collection of distinct 'houses,' each managed by its own foundation or association. This means that application processes, room types, and living conditions can vary significantly from one house to another. Reddit

Applying for housing at the Cité Internationale requires careful research into each individual house. Prospective residents need to visit the official Cité Internationale website, which lists all the houses and provides links to their specific application portals. Common requirements include proof of enrollment in a Parisian educational institution, a student visa (if applicable), and often a letter of motivation. Due to high demand, it is strongly advised to apply as early as possible, often up to a year in advance. Reddit

Living at the Cité offers a rich multicultural experience, with opportunities to interact with people from all over the globe. While the primary focus is on providing accommodation, many houses also organize cultural events and activities, fostering a strong sense of community. The cite universitaire application process can seem complex, but thorough preparation and early action are key to securing a place in this sought-after international environment. :housewithgarden:

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