Paris: a city that caters to all, from sightseers to shopaholics to families seeking a good vacation! When planning your Parisian adventure, location is key. You'll want to stay somewhere central, with easy access to major attractions and local culinary delights. Paris is neatly divided into 18 arrondissements, each with its own unique charm. Whether you're itching to tick off those must-see sights, dive into mouthwatering French cuisine, or lose yourself in artistic masterpieces, the various arrondissements offer perfect home bases for your stay. Let's explore where to stay in the City of Light!
Where to Stay in Paris - An Overview
-
For First Time
-
On a Budget
-
For Nightlife
-
For Shopping
-
With Family
1st Arrondissement
Located close to major attractions such as the Louvre and the Tuileries Garden, the 1st arrondissement is among the more upscale neighborhoods in Paris. Often referred to as the heart of Paris, this arrondissement is super stylish and grand! A perfect place to soak up Parisian history and culture, the 1st arrondissement is a great place to stay if you want to do all the touristy things in Paris.
Recommended Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris
1 1st Arrondissement
Perfect for Accessibility
1.3km
Distance from Centre
The 1st Arrondissement, or "le premier," is a top pick for tourists. This historic area is close to major attractions like the Louvre and Tuileries Garden. Known as Paris's "royal heart," it's both safe and prestigious. You'll find high-end shops on rue Saint-Honoré and diverse options at Forum des Halles. Don't skip the charming covered passages for unique shopping. While well-connected by metro, the main Châtelet/Les Halles station can get busy. Try nearby stops like Concorde or Palais Royal for easier travel. With its blend of culture, shopping, and sights, the 1st Arrondissement offers a quintessential Parisian experience.
- Admire the Mona Lisa at the Louvre Museum.
- Take a morning stroll in the Tuileries Garden surrounded by colorful and fragrant flowers.
- Explore Monet’s famous ‘Water Lilies’ series of paintings at the Musée de L’Orangerie.
- Take a late afternoon cruise on the Seine River.
- Indulge in some delicious French food at the eateries.
- By Train: Take train H, L or N to the 1st Arrondissement.
- By Metro: Take Metro 1 to the 1st Arrondissement.
- By Bus: Bus routes 39, 45, 66, 68,72, 73, 94, 95 stop at the 1st Arrondissement.
1. Luxury Stay: The Ritz, Paris
2. Economy Stay: Hotel Britannique
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: BVJ Louvre
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
The Chez Denise restaurant serves generous portions of some classic dishes and is open till 5 am in the morning.
1st Arrondissement is one of the best localities to explore if you truly want to experience the Parisian culture. Read more about the popular attractions in the 1st Arrondissement that are close enough to reach on foot:
- Louvre Museum - 450m from 1st Arrondissement
- Centre Pompiduo - 1.8 KM from 1st Arrondissement
- Tuileries Garden - 3.5m from 1st Arrondissement
- Musee de l'orangerie - 900m from 1st Arrondissement
- Palais Garnier - 1.1 KM from 1st Arrondissement
Landmarks in Paris
2 7th Arrondissement
The Best Neighborhood for Shopping in Paris
4.4 km
Distance from Centre
The 7th Arrondissement is a quintessential Parisian neighborhood, offering charm, sophistication, and safety. The Eiffel Tower is omnipresent here, peeking out from behind trees and buildings as you explore. This area is a favorite among visitors and locals alike, boasting bustling street markets, cozy bistros, and high-end shopping. Known for its iconic landmarks and picturesque streets, the 7th Arrondissement caters to all tastes with its diverse dining scene. From casual cafés to upscale restaurants like Le Cinq Codet, you can savor traditional French cuisine or indulge in gourmet experiences. It's no wonder this neighborhood is considered one of Paris's most desirable.
- Climb the Eiffel Tower, the most iconic landmark of Paris.
- Take a leisurely stroll through the Champ de Mars Garden or enjoy a family picnic in the beautiful garden.
- Sail on the Seine River as you pass by popular attractions such as the Grand Palais and Notre Dame Cathedral.
- Walk on the famous Rue St-Dominique-a road connecting the Eiffel Tower, Champs de Mars Garden and the Musée D’Orsay.
- Walk along the Pont Alexandre III, the most beautiful bridge in the world.
- By Train: Trains L and N can take you to the 7th Arrondissement.
- By Metro: Metro 13 is another way to get to the 7th Arrondissement.
- By Bus: Bus routes 82, 89 and 92 will take you to the 7th Arrondissement.
1. Luxury Stay: Hotel Le Narcisse Blanc & Spa
2. Economy Stay: Hotel Derby Eiffel
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: Adveniat Paris
Eiffel Tower Tickets
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
The Rue Cler is one of the most famous streets in Paris for food. Do try out the local restaurants here.
3 The Latin Quarter
Vibrant neighbourhood in Paris
1.3 km
Distance from Centre
The Latin Quarter, nestled in the 5th Arrondissement, is a lively and historic area of Paris. Home to the ancient Sorbonne university, this district buzzes with youthful energy. Situated on the Left Bank of the Seine, it's one of Paris's oldest neighborhoods, beloved by locals and tourists alike. The Latin Quarter has preserved its historic charm, with winding streets dating back to Roman times. This authenticity makes it perfect for those seeking genuine Parisian culture. Don't forget to explore the local markets for fresh produce, cheeses, and pastries – ideal for a picnic in the nearby Jardin du Luxembourg!
- Go on a walking tour of the Latin Quarter.
- Lose yourself in the old-world charm of the tiny and picturesque streets of Rue Saint-André des Arts and Rue de la Huchette.
- Bask in the shade of the oldest tree in Paris as you enjoy some amazing views of the Notre Dame Cathedral at the Square René Viviani.
- Admire the famous Sorbonne building, one of the most prestigious universities in the world.
- Pay a tribute to French greats such as Victor Hugo, Voltaire and Rousseau at the Pantheon.
- By Train: Take Trains H or L to reach the Latin Quarter.
- By RER: RER B will take you to the Latin Quarter.
- By Metro: Metro line 10 can help you get to the Latin Quarter.
- By Bus: Routes 38, 47 , 63, 75 and 87 can also take you to the Latin Quarter.
1. Luxury Stay: Relais Christine
2. Economy Stay: Hotel Quartier Latin
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: Young and Happy Latin Quarter by hiphophostels
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
Embark on a selfie journey through the Latin Quarters of Paris and capture its old-world charm with this Latin Quarter of Paris Selfie Tour. Don’t be surprised if you stumble upon impromptu music concerts and/or dance performances at the Saint-Michel Fountain.
4 Le Marais
Hippiest neighbourhood in Paris
650 m
Distance from Centre
Le Marais, a romantic and trendy district in Paris, is built on former marshland. This historic area is known for its charming cobbled streets, quirky boutiques, and well-preserved French traditions. Rue des Francs-Bourgeois showcases a blend of fashion and heritage, offering everything from high-end designer goods to unique local finds. The district is a favorite among locals for leisurely walks and shopping. With its beautiful architecture, serene atmosphere, and abundance of cafés and art galleries, Le Marais is perfect for relaxation and people-watching. It's well-connected to other parts of Paris via metro stations like Saint-Paul and Hôtel de Ville.
- Don’t forget to admire the Hôtel de Villa, a Parisian landmark that houses the Paris city council.
- Take a romantic walk to the Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris and home to famous French authors such as Victor Hugo.
- Admire France’s largest collection of modern and contemporary art at the Pompidou Centre.
- Shop away at the BHV MARAIS, a retail icon of Paris that has all the top ready-to-wear brands under one roof.
- A great place for foodies, Le Marais has some of the best restaurants and boulangeries in Paris.
- By Bus: Bus Routes 75, 29 and 96 will drop you at the centre of the Le Marais district.
- By Metro: You can take metro lines 1, 8 and 11 to reach Le Marais.
1. Luxury Stay: Le Pavillon de la Reine
2. Economy Stay: Hôtel Marais Bastille
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: The People Paris Marais
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
Le Marais has many great quality coffee shops, all of which make specialty coffee. Some places worth trying out are Partisan Café Artisanal and Terres de Café.
5 Grands Magasins
The Best Neighborhood for Shopping in Paris
4.7 km
Distance from Centre
Home to three legendary department stores-Le Bon Marché, Printemps and Galeries Lafayette, the Grands Magasins district is known for its amazing shopping. This neighborhood in Paris is your one-stop shop for everything! Be it fashion, beauty, homeware or accessories-everything can easily be found here. If shopping is what you want to do, then you know where to go!
- Admire the ornate art nouveau style of Galeries Lafayette as you shop till you drop here.
- Shop everything “new, fresh and lovely” at Printemps-the first department store to install elevators and the first building in France to be lit by electricity.
- Do some uninterrupted shopping at Le Bon Marché, which has a reading room for waiting husbands.
- In between your bouts of shopping, don’t forget to snack on some food and drink some champagne at the department stores.
- Do department store hopping as you move from one store to another in the Grands Magasins district.
- By Train: Trains J and L will take you to the Grands Magasins neighborhood in Paris.
- By RER: Take RER A to reach Grands Magasins.
- By Metro: Metro Line 9 takes you to Grands Magasins as well.
- By Bus: Bus routes 32, 42, 52, 66 and 68 will also take you to Grands Magasins.
1. Luxury Stay: Four Seasons Hotel George V
2. Economy Stay: Hôtel Mercure Paris Opéra Grands Boulevards
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: Appi Hôtel
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
To reach Printemps and Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann, just follow Rue Tronchet from La Madeleine.
6 St. Germain de Pres
Most chic neighbourhood
2.9 km
Distance from Centre
A favorite haunt of artists and writers, the St. Germain de Pres district in Paris is located in the heart of the Left bank of River Seine. Lined with quaint shops, patisseries, bakeries and cafes, the St. Germain de Pres is a haven for food lovers. Lively, artistic and centrally located, St. Germains de Pres is one of the most charming walking areas in Paris.
- Go on a walking tour of the St. Germain de Pres neighborhood.
- Explore the beautiful and exquisite Luxembourg Gardens.
- Experience the intellectual and literary heart of Paris by gorging on some delicious food at local restaurants and eateries.
- Visit the Musée de Cluny to learn about the Middle Ages.
- Delve into history as you learn about the ancient abbey of St. Germain de Pres, the oldest church in Paris.
- By Train: Trains L and N will take you to St. Germain de Pres.
- By RER: You can reach St. Germain de Pres by taking RER B.
- By Metro: Take Metro line 10 or 4 to reach St. Germain de Pres.
- By Bus: Bus routes 27, 39, 47, 63, 68, 72, 84, 87, 95 and 96 will take you to St. Germain de Pres.
1. Luxury Stay: Relais Christine
2. Economy Stay: Hôtel de Seine
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: Hôtel de Saint Germain
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
Enjoy a cup of coffee at Les Deux Magots, one of the most famous literary cafes in Paris.
7 Champs-Élysées
Most glamorous neighbourhood in Paris
5.2 km
Distance from Centre
No trip to Paris will be complete without visiting Champs Élysées-the world’s most beautiful avenue by day or by night. One of Paris’s top attractions, the Champs Élysées is visited by around 300,000 people every day! People flock to Champs Élysées to admire its majestic monuments and go on a shopping spree, since it is home to some of the most high-end fashion brands.
- Spend an awesome day shopping at the Champs Élysées.
- Watch a contemporary play at the famous Théâtre du Rond-Point.
- Party the night away at some of the most exclusive nightclubs in Paris.
- If you want to be a bit reckless, spend some time gambling at the Paris Élysées Club-the only casino in Paris.
- Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many Micheline-starred restaurants here.
- By Trains: Trains J and L will take you to Champs Élysées.
- By Metro: Metro lines 1, 9 and 13 can help you reach Champs Élysées.
- By Bus: Bus routes 42, 52, 73, 80 and 92 can take you to Champs Élysées.
1. Luxury Stay: Four Seasons Hotel George V
2. Economy Stay: Hôtel Arc de Triomphe
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: BVJ Champs-Elysées Monceau
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
Try Ladurée and/or Kusmi-two excellent tearooms known for the delicious pastries, beverages and snacks.
8 Montmartre
Picturesque cobblestone streets
5.9 km
Distance from Centre
Perched on top of a small hill in the 18th arrondissement, Montmartre is the most famous Parisian district. This district has lost none of its village atmosphere and still remains true to its original roots that attracted and appealed to some of the most famous artists of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Full of charm, Parisian culture and heritage, Montmartre is a melting pot of art and inspiration.
- Marvel at the all-white Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Visit the famous Moulin Rouge in this Parisian district.
- Enjoy wonderful panoramic views from the terraces of most of the restaurants and bistros here.
- Enjoy stunning views of Paris from the top of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Follow in the footsteps of Amelia of Montmartre, an internationally-acclaimed film that is famous the world over.
- By Train: Trains H and L will take you up to Montmartre.
- By Metro: Metro line 12 and 2 will make you reach Montmartre.
- By Bus: Bus routes 30, 54, 68, 80 and 85 can take you to Montmartre as well.
1. Luxury Stay: Maison Souquet
2. Economy Stay: Best Western Hotel Le Montmartre Saint-Pierre
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: Le Village Montmartre
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
Experience the vibrant art scene of Paris with Montmartre Walking Tour. Wear comfortable footwear and clothes when visiting Montmartre.
9 Montparnasse
Panoramic views of the city
3.6 km
Distance from Centre
Travel back in time to the Roaring Twenties when you visit Montparnasse in Paris.This vibrant and authentic neighborhood has had a fabulous Bohemian past, reminders of which can still be seen as you stroll along Montparnasse. Located on the left banks of the River Seine, Montparnasse boasts of cultural sights, leafy gardens and foodie streets.
- Take a walk in the peaceful Montparnasse cemetery, the resting place for literary greats such as Sartre and Samuel Beckett.
- Be stunned by the amazing 360-degree views of Paris from the top of Montparnasse Tower.
- Travel through a maze of spooky underground tunnels at the Paris Catacombs.
- Enjoy a meal at the La Closerie des Lilas, a piano bar whose past customers include Ernest Hemingway and Fitzgerald.
- Try a traditional Bréton-style crêpe from one of the many crêperies that line the streets at Montparnasse.
- By Train: Trains N and TER will take you to Montparnasse.
- By RER: RER B will take you to Montparnasse.
- By Metro: You can take Metro Line 6 to get to Montparnasse.
- By Bus: Bus routes 38, 82, 88 can take you to Montparnasse.
1. Luxury Stay: Hôtel Le Six
2. Economy Stay: Hôtel Waldorf Montparnasse
3. Hostel/Budget Stay: Hotel Montparnasse Alésia
🇫🇷 Local's Tip 🇫🇷
Order a ‘new-fashioned’ cocktail at the Rosebud, one of the best bars in the world.
Montparnasse is an area of cultural significance that offers plenty of insightful facts and stories. Uncover the secrets of the area with Montparnasse Guided Walking Tour
FAQs: Where to Stay in Paris
The best areas to stay in Paris are the 1st Arrondissement, 7th Arrondissement and the Latin Quarter.
The cheapest accommodation in Paris would be hostels.
The best areas to explore in Paris are the Latin Quarters, Le Marais and the Grands Magasins.
The Louvre, Musée D’Orsay, the Eiffel Tower and the Tuileries Gardens are some popular attractions in Paris.
The best way to get around Paris is by the metro.
The safest areas to stay in Paris are the 1st Arrondissement and the 7th Arrondissement.
All the areas in Paris can be both safe and unsafe to stay in.
