Paris is the capital of France and one of the most visited cities in the world. People from all over the world come to get lost in the Romantic streets, see the top attractions and surround themselves with French culture.
Being a reasonably large city, Paris can be overwhelming to figure out where to stay and what to see. On top of that, navigating around can be daunting. However, one of the unique things about Paris is that each of its districts, known as “arrondissements,” has its own distinct features.
You could spend an entire trip just getting lost in the winding streets and cozy cafés and not even visit the main attractions if you wanted to. But the important question is where to stay.
Your base location significantly impacts your experience in Paris, so you want to make sure you choose the right spot for you!
This post focuses on the best arrondissements to stay in Paris, why they are great areas to stay in, and what popular attractions are nearby.
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Table of Contents
- 1 Paris Arrondissement Guide
- 2 Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris
- 2.1 The 1st Arrondissement – Louvre
- 2.2 Places to Stay in the 1st Arrondissement
- 2.3 The 3rd/4th Arrondissement – Le Marais
- 2.4 Where to Stay in the 3rd/4th Arrondissement
- 2.5 The 5th Arrondissement – The Latin Quarter
- 2.6 Where to Stay in the 5th Arrondissement
- 2.7 The 6th Arrondissement – Saint-Germain-des-Prés
- 2.8 Where to Stay in the 6th Arrondissement
- 2.9 The 7th Arrondissement – Eiffel Tower
- 2.10 Where to Stay in the 7th Arrondissement
- 2.11 The 8th Arrondissement – Champs-Élysées
- 2.12 Where to Stay in the 8th Arrondissement
- 2.13 The 9th Arrondissement – Opéra
- 2.14 Where to Stay in the 9th Arrondissement
- 2.15 The 18th Arrondissement – Montmartre
- 2.16 Where to stay in the 18th Arrondissement
- 3 Getting Around Paris
- 4 Tips for Visiting Paris
- 5 Conclusion
- 6 Pin it for Later
Paris Arrondissement Guide
What is an Arrondissement?
An arrondissement is another name for an administrative district. There are 20 arrondissements, starting with the 1st in the center of Paris. Each has its own town hall and neighborhoods. The further out from the city center, the larger the number.
One unique thing about the Paris arrondissement layout is that they spiral out from the center of the city clockwise. A general rule is to stay closer to the center of Paris, near the Seine. Even those arrondissements, however, differ drastically from each other.
My personal favorite areas to stay in are Le Maris and Saint Germain. These are my go-to when visiting Paris and my top recommendations. I love the food scene and old Paris charm of Le Maris and the romantic quintessential Paris experience of Saint Germain. However, everyone has different needs and must-haves.
For that reason, I’ve detailed some of the best all-around places to stay in Paris and why they are so amazing. From there, it will be up to your taste which one to choose!
Which Arrondissement to Stay in Paris
The arrondissement you pick is mainly based on personal choice. Some people want to be within walking distance of the top attractions, while others would rather stay on the outskirts where the locals live.
Other important things to consider are the overall budget, vibe, transportation, and location. Of course, the closer to the main attractions, the more expensive the accommodations are. Also, although you can find hotels in any arrondissement, you may want to stay in a vacation rental instead.
I will cover the top places to stay in Paris based on all these factors and explain why they are coveted areas.
Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris
The 1st Arrondissement – Louvre
Best For: First-time visitors, close to attractions
Location: Center of the city
Unsurprisingly, the 1st arrondissement in Paris made it on the list. It is as close to the city’s center as you can get and within walking distance of many main attractions.
Sitting on the right bank of the Seine, the 1st arrondissement is where you will find the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, and Musée l’Orangerie. It is one of the oldest arrondissements and an excellent place for first-timers to stay due to its central location.
You can easily walk to top sites such as Musée D’Orsay, Palais Royal, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Place de la Concorde. There are also many public transportation options, and you are nearby several metro stops, allowing you to explore further out destinations.
One downside of staying here is the higher price tag of accommodations and the large number of tourists. Another is the little nightlife and late-night restaurants in the area.
Places to Stay in the 1st Arrondissement
Cheval Blanc
One of the most luxurious hotels in Paris, the Cheval Blanc is ideally situated just steps from the Louvre in the city center. With four restaurants, a spa, an indoor pool, and 24-hour room service, you will surely have an unforgettable experience.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Opéra Richepanse
Perfectly located in the 1st Arrondissement, the Hotel Opéra Richepanse sits between the Louvre and the Champs Elysées. You can get to many top Paris attractions in about 10 minutes or hop on the métro to further out landmarks. After a busy day sightseeing, relax in your room with all the modern comforts you need.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Opera Maintenon
Another excellent accommodation is the Hotel Opera Maintenon. Although it is close to the magnificent Palais Garnier, it is located in the 1st, close to the Tuileries Gardens. So close to some great shopping and restaurants, this hotel is amidst all the action.
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The 3rd/4th Arrondissement – Le Marais
Best For: Food lovers, nightlife, history
Location: Right bank, Île de la Cité
Le Marais is another trendy place to stay in Paris, where many locals live. This area is divided between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the right bank. A small part of Le Marais also sits on Île de la Cite.
It is one of the best places for food in Paris, with a diverse selection of restaurants. It is also where you will find local late-night hangouts. This hip arrondissement is a popular place for young locals to spend their time.
Many people love to stay in Le Marais because of the old history and beautiful architecture, including the Notre Dame Cathedral. You will also find Place des Vosges, a beautiful old square in Paris. In addition, there are many excellent art galleries here, including the Picasso Museum.
Most of Le Marais is lined with beautiful old mansions that have been renovated into apartments and boutique hotels. But, overall, most of the arrondissement has stayed untouched and possesses the charm of old Paris. The famous alchemist Nicholas Flamel’s house, the oldest house in Paris, can even be found here.
It is also a diverse area in terms of culture. For example, a section of Le Marais is designated to the LGTQ community, and there is also a large Jewish community here. As a result, it is one of the most coveted places to live in Paris, with a hot real estate market.
One downfall of staying in Le Marais is the lack of public transit, although there is some. Another is the overall price for accommodations is high due to the area’s popularity. The price tag is worth it though! Le Marais is highly-loved by both Parisians and visitors for a reason.
Where to Stay in the 3rd/4th Arrondissement
Cour des Vosges
Overlooking the oldest square in Le Maris, the Place des Vosques, Cour des Vosges has some of the most beautifully decorated rooms with equally impressive views. From quaint rooms to three-bedroom suites, each accommodation is decorated with the finest furnishings, beautifully architectural accents, and intimate spaces.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Le Presbytère
Situated in the center of Le Marais, this charming hotel is in the perfect location. You can walk to landmarks like Notre Dame and Les Halles and jump on the métro just steps from the hotel.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Bastille Speria
This modern hotel is another excellent option in Le Marais. With stylish decor, spacious bathrooms, and a buffet breakfast, the Hotel Bastille is a fabulous budget hotel with both the location and feel of a high-end hotel.
Budget Hotel | Check Rates
The 5th Arrondissement – The Latin Quarter
Best For: Nightlife, affordable accommodations
Location: Left bank
Next to Le Maris is the trendy Latin Quarter. It is a diverse arrondissement full of an eclectic food scene and terrific nightlife. You will also find some of Paris’s universities in the Latin Quarter.
The Latin Quarter is a perfect area for college students or young travelers looking for a trendy place to stay. It is also cheaper than staying in Le Marais, but with some of the same charm.
Some terrific places to visit in the Latin Quarter include the Pantheon, le Jardin des Plantes, the Museum of Natural History, and the highly loved Shakespeare & Co. Bookstore.
If you want to stay close to the center of Paris but with a smaller price tag, then the Latin Quarter is a great compromise. You are within walking distance of some of the best areas and have plenty of bars and nightlife.
Since the 5th arrondissement is designated for many college students and an overall younger crowd, it may not be best suited for families with children.
Where to Stay in the 5th Arrondissement
Hotel Parc Saint-Séverin
One of the best things to do at the Hotel Parc Saint-Séverin is to sit on your private terrace and watch the hustle and bustle of the city below. In addition to some rooms having their own terrace, guests can enjoy buffet breakfast room service, shuttle, and quick access to the métro.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Residence Henri IV
Adorned with marble fireplaces, antique paintings, and lavish bedding, the 4-star hotel is a romantic hotel in the Latin Quarter. You are also within a few minutes of the train and métro station.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Les Jardins du Luxembourg
In the trendy Latin Quartier is the cozy Les Jardins de Luxembourg. Located just steps from the lushes garden, the boutique hotel is close to several main attractions and a short mile to the Louvre and other main attractions.
Budget Hotel | Check Rates
The 6th Arrondissement – Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Best For: Families, café scene
Location: Left bank
On the opposite side of the river Seine is the high-end Saint-Germain-des-Prés district. If quintessential Paris cafés and brasseries are what you are after, you’ve found the right area.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one district known for its beautiful Haussmann-style homes that come to mind when you think of Paris.
The stone buildings with wrought iron balconies, dormer windows, and mansard roofs are part of what makes the city such a loved and romanticized place.
The district is home to some of the most famous places to eat in Paris, such as Café Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore, and many high-end art galleries.
Besides enjoying the food scene, you are close to le Jardin du Luxembourg and the exquisite Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Due to the lovely outdoor gardens and parks here, the 6th is a beautiful place for families with kids. It is also a highly romantic part of the city and the stomping grounds of some of the most famous intellectuals, like Ernest Hemingway.
The entire arrondissement screams sophistication and elegance, which reflects in the prices. So plan to spend a good bit of money to stay here. It is a lovely area, though, and another favorite of mine.
Where to Stay in the 6th Arrondissement
Hôtel d’Aubusson
The lavish hotel is inside an old 17th-century mansion with traditional features like stone fireplaces, wood beams, and high-end furniture. Guests can enjoy a stroll in the inner courtyard or sip on drinks at the hotel’s cozy jazz bar.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel de l’Abbaye
The traditional Hotel de l’Abbaye is a cozy and relaxing place to stay in the 6th Arrondissement. Guests have several areas to enjoy, including an outdoor garden, bar, and lounge area. In addition, some rooms come with an outdoor terrace overlooking the courtyard.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Luxembourg Parc
Hotel Luxembourg Parc is a terrific hotel in Saint-Germain-des-Prés for a great price. Even though the hotel is not a “budget” option, it is a steal for the high-price area. Each room is tastefully decorated with large bathrooms, traditional furnishings, and old architectural charm.
Budget Hotel | Check Rates
The 7th Arrondissement – Eiffel Tower
Best For: First-time visitors, close to attractions, restaurants
Location: Left bank
Home to the most famous landmark in Paris, the Eiffel Tower, the 7th Arrondissement is a wonderful place to stay for first-time visitors who would like to stay close to the city’s main attractions. The area is also where you will find many high-end hotels with views of the Eiffel Tower.
Several other famous landmarks are nearby, including Les Invalides and le Musée d’Orsayd’Orsay. Not to mention, you are close to the Champs-Élysées, the most prestigious shopping street in the city. You can walk to everything and take advantage of public transportation.
A lot of people enjoy the 7th arrondissement because of its food scene. There is a large variety of restaurants available here.
Although there are some great reasons to stay near the Eiffel Tower, there are also some downfalls to staying here. First off, this is one of the most crowded areas in Paris. It is also one of the most expensive, especially if you opt for a hotel with a view.
Where to Stay in the 7th Arrondissement
Le Cinq Codet
One of the most coveted amenities in Paris is a private balcony, which is extremely hard to find. Not at Le Cinq Codet, though! This luxury hotel offers large, lush outdoor spaces with quaint views of the surrounding Paris streets. In addition, you have everything you could need at your disposal, including a spa and onsite restaurant.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel le Walt
Hotel le Walt is a high-end hotel situated on the Rive Gauche. Rooms are decorated with traditional gold framed paintings and modern touches. Many rooms have a view of the Eiffel Tower in the distance, but all guests can enjoy the hotel’s garden.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Jardins Eiffel
Only a short 15-minute walk to the Eiffel tower, the Jardins Eiffel is an excellent budget-friendly accommodation. The hotel offers a buffet breakfast each morning and has a delightful garden for guest to enjoy their meal. Check out the rooms with private terraces and Eiffel Tower views!
Budget Hotel | Check Rates
The 8th Arrondissement – Champs-Élysées
Best For: Shopping, luxury accommodations
Location: Right bank
The famous Champs-Élysées is one of the prettiest streets in Paris and a popular shopping area for locals and tourists. The large boulevard is lined on both sides by high-end shops and fashion boutiques. The hotels here are equally lavish and some of the priciest in Paris.
In addition to shopping, you are close to the beautiful Arc de Triomphe, the Place de la Concorde, and can easily walk to the Eiffel Tower. The 8th also has terrific restaurants with many fine dining opportunities.
If you are budgeting your trip to Paris or want to avoid being in the thick of it all, then you will not want to stay in the 8th. It stays busy all day long!
If you would like to stay in the 8th but do not want to be in the thick of things, you can find some more affordable accommodations on the neighborhood’s outskirts, closer to the 9th. That way, you are still in the 8th, but not in the high-traffic areas.
Where to Stay in the 8th Arrondissement
The Peninsula Paris
One of the main reasons people like to stay near the Champs-Élysées, besides the shopping, is the proximity to the Eiffel Tower. The Peninsula Paris is not just a luxury hotel but one of the best places to stay for views of the Eiffel Tower. It is also right in the center of the 8th. Like most luxury hotels in Paris, you will want to book your stay early.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
La Demeure Montaigne
La Demeure Montaigne is fully equipped with every possible amenity you could want. Guests can access a sauna, spa, pool, fitness center, and restaurant. In addition to the communal amenities, the rooms also have a lot to offer. The modern rooms are both spacious and lavish. Bathrooms have large freestanding tubs, hardwood floors, and high-end furnishings. Some rooms even have views of the Eiffel Tower and balconies.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel West-End
Hotel West-End is not technically a budget hotel, but it is considered a fantastic price for the area. Each room is beautifully decorated with an eclectic mix of furnishings and decor. One of the best parts of the rooms is the outdoor balconies with Eiffel Tower views. You can sit outside with your breakfast and look at the Iron Lady over the Parisian rooftops.
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The 9th Arrondissement – Opéra
Best For: Entertainment, Shopping
Location: Right bank
The 9th arrondissement is another great place for shopping. The elegant Galleries Lafayette is is full of unique shops, and the building itself is a work of art.
The best attraction in the area is the Palais Garnier Opera House. Inspiration behind the popular book and opera, The Phantom of the Opera, the building looks like a mini Versailles palace inside and is open for tours during the day and live entertainment at night.
You can also find the extensive Passage des Panoramas, covered walkways lined with restaurants, shops, and cafés. With several other covered passages in the area, it is one of the many things that make the 9th unique.
The 9th arrondissement is a great choice if you want to stay close to the center of the city, but want a range of hotel options. Plus, with a number of metro stations and bus stops you can easily get around Paris from here.
One downside of this area is the large boulevards and number of shopping areas make it a very busy section of the city with lots of pedestrian and street traffic
Where to Stay in the 9th Arrondissement
Maison Albar Hotels – Le Vendome
Gold furniture, parquet flooring, and a marble bathroom are some of the embellishments that make this luxury hotel a top choice. The larger suites even have outdoor terraces and extensive seating areas for guests. Within walking distance of the Palais Garnier, Maison Albar Hotels is a luxury accommodation with outstanding amenities and an equally terrific location.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Mansart
The Hotel Mansart is situated ideally between the 1st and 9th Arrondissement. It is just a few minutes walk to the Palais Garnier and the Louvre. Decorated with a mix of modern and antique accents, a dining room, hotel bar, and in-room amenities make the Mansart the ultimate accommodation.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel Saint-Louis Pigalle
It is hard to find such an excellent hotel for the price, especially with private outdoor balconies. The Hotel Saint-Louis Pigalle is close to the iconic Sacré-Coeur, but still has views of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. This place is a great budget option close to some of the best shopping in Paris.
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The 18th Arrondissement – Montmartre
Best For: Old Paris Charm, romantic experience, art scene
Location: Right bank
The larger Marais district is home to some of the oldest buildings in Paris. The arrondissement sits high on a hill with the beautiful Sacré-Coeur Basilica at its center. With some of the prettiest streets in Paris and spectacular city views, Montmartre is a popular place to stay in and visit.
There are fewer main attractions here as it is far out from the city’s center. Most people come here to enjoy the local culture, have a drink at a bar, and get lost in the historic streets.
Montmartre is a romantic area in Paris due to its old charm. Unlike many other districts, most of Montmartre stayed untouched through the Haussmann renovations and therefore has a unique charm.
The area is full of winding cobblestone roads, preserved windmills, cozy restaurants, and hidden gems at every corner. It is also home to an extensive art scene. Many of the world’s most famous painters called Montmartre home, including Degas and Picasso. It is also where you can find the Moulin Rouge.
Since it is further from the city’s center, you will have fewer tourist crowds and high prices. Hotels here are much cheaper, which is one of the big draws.
However, you are far from the main sites and have fewer public transportation options. That being said, Montmartre is one of the most romantic areas in Paris and a must-see, even if you decide not to stay there.
Montmartre is an excellent area in Paris and perfect for people who have visited the city before or want a quieter, more authentic Parisian experience.
Where to stay in the 18th Arrondissement
Manolita Paris
For a 5-Star stay in Montmartre, the Manolita Paris has it all. The elegantly decorated rooms have the traditional decor, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and a seating area. Some rooms even come with a fireplace and balcony. On top of the high-end amenities, the hotel is within five minutes of the metro station, making it easy to explore the city.
Luxury Hotel | Check Rates
Hotel des Arts Montmartre
Hotel des Arts Montmartre is a modern hotel just under 10 minutes from the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. This cozy hotel is the perfect place for a vibrant and centrally located stay in Montmartre for couples and single travelers.
Mid-Range Hotel | Check Rates
Aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre
The Aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre is ideally located in Montmartre. It is also a highly-rated hotel for an impeccable price. One excellent addition to the rooms is the kitchen equipped with a dishwasher, microwave, and fridge. This hotel is perfect if you are looking to stay in Paris for an extended amount of time or prefer to cook your meals.
Budget Hotel | Check Rates
Getting Around Paris
The easiest way to get around Paris is to walk. It is also the most picturesque as you get lost in Paris’s beautiful streets when you do. However, if you get tired of walking or need to travel further, these other types of transportation are great alternatives.
Take the Métro
Paris has a vast and inexpensive transportation system. The métro is a popular way to get around, with 16 different lines and over 300 stations.
The métro runs from 5:30 am to 12:40 am (1 am on Friday and Saturday). Also, you can use your métro tickets on city buses, trams, and the RER.
Just a heads-up, the métro can be a bit confusing at first! To check out timetables, routes, and maps, visit the RATP website.
Ride the RER
The RER is Paris’ train system. It is an excellent option if you are coming to and from the airport or want to take a trip to Disney Paris or Versailles. It works just like the métro but runs less often.
If you decide to take this mode of transport, hold on to your ticket. You will need it to get out of the station.
Hop on a Bus
Buses are a great way to see Paris. They begin running around 6 am and stop around 9:30 pm (some even run later). You can buy your ticket from the driver or use your métro ticket. Visit the RATP Website for bus schedules.
Get a Taxi
Taxis are another popular way to get around. They are a great option if you are carrying around luggage or prefer convenience.
There are taxi stands all over the city and at every train station. Paris also does have Uber! The one downfall of Taxis is that they can be costly.
Ride a Bike
Bikes are a great way to see the sights. You can rent a bike from any of the Velib’ stations. The service costs 1€ for 30 minutes for a standard bike and 2€ for 30 minutes for an electric bike.
Velib’ also offers 1 and 7 days passes. Most streets have bike lanes, and you can drop your bike off at any station once you finish, making it an easy way to get around.
The Paris Pass
Gain access to over 80 attractions and museums for a set price. Pick between a 2-6 day pass that allows entrance to the top Paris attractions.
The 4 and 6 day Paris Pass also includes the Paris Museum Pass, which includes over 50 museums.
Get your Paris Pass now!
Tips for Visiting Paris
Language
The majority of Parisians speak French. However, many do also speak English. Once you get further out of the city, you will find it less common. I recommend learning a few basic French phrases before you go.
Currency
The standard currency in France is the Euro. You can quickly stop by the many ATMs to withdraw cash. Another option is to withdraw money before your trip. Keep a maximum of a couple of hundred dollars on you at a time, just in case!
Also, many credit cards, such as American Express, automatically convert your money into Euros when you use it. Before using any credit or debit card overseas, contact them about their exchange rates and policies. Some companies charge high fees for this service.
When to Visit
The best time to plan a trip to Paris is in May and early June. The weather is beginning to get warm but not too hot during this time, and it is less crowded. Late August through October are also great times to visit.
Weather
The warmest months of the year are July and August when the temperature can go up to 80ºs. At night expect it to be on the chillier side, as low as the 50ºs. Spring and Fall are cooler seasons, with temperatures as low as 40º during the day.
The winter time is very cold, with temperatures in the mid 40ºs and below freezing at night. This time of the year is especially pretty as the entire city sparkles with Christmas lights. No matter what time of year you go, take some warm clothing options.
Conclusion
Paris is a fantastic city, no matter where you decide to stay. Whether you stay close to the city’s top attractions or prefer to experience Paris like a local, there is no wrong way to go!
I hope this guide to the best arrondissement to stay in Paris helped inspire your upcoming trip. Let me know if you want to know more about some of Paris’s other areas!
Enjoyed this post? Here are some other French destinations!
South Of France
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- 10 Best Towns in Provence, France
- How to Spend 3 Days in Provence, France
Paris
- Ultimate 5 Days in Paris Itinerary & Day Trip Ideas
- Travel Guide: How to Plan a Trip to Paris
- Top 20 Best Things to Do in Paris
- Top Impressionist Museums in Paris to Visit
- Visiting the Palace of Versailles: First Timer’s Guide
- The Most Charming Cities Near Paris
- 20 of the Prettiest Streets in Paris
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Travel Planning Resources
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT | Skyscanner is the top search engine for finding and booking flights. They price check over 1,200 travel sites to help you find the best prices.
VIEW ACCOMMODATIONS | For booking hotels and vacation rentals Booking.com is a top resource . They offer some of the cheapest rates and different payment options.
PLAN TRANSPORTATION | Discover Cars is my go-to site when booking rentals. They work with hundreds of companies worldwide to help you find the best car for your needs and budget.
SCHEDULE YOUR TOURS | There are many top companies available in Europe. Get Your Guide is one of the best sites for tours, excursions, and activities. Viator is another terrific website for all types of experiences.
GET TRAVEL INSURANCE | Having travel insurance is always a good idea. World Nomads is one of the top travel insurance companies. It will cover you if you must cancel your trip or if something unexpected happens.
Check out the resource page for additional travel planning resources.
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