Where to Stay in Paris

Author`s Info: DAVE FROM SANTORINI

Our Favorite Paris Hotels

・ Five star ranking: Four Seasons
• 4-Star: Grand Powers
• 3-Star: Cler • Chopin
• Boutique: J.K. Place
• Inexpensive: Welcome
• ・ For Couples: Relais Christine
• For Families: Lodging Suites
• Eiffel Tower: Pullman
• Louvre: Hotel du Louvre
• Located near Notre Dame Cathedral is Saint Severin
• Loews Miami Beach” accommodation
is good for families • Gare du Nord/Gare de l’Est: Hotel Hor.”a series of photos showing different types of stickers on a computer screen 1. Hotel Des Arts The initially mentioned lodging is Hotel Des Arts. 2. Hotel Hor Next is Hotel Hor. 3. Chopin Third on the list is Chopin. 4. Fraser Suites Fourth is Fraser Suites. 5. Grand Powers Fifth is Grand Powers. 6. Four Seasons Sixth is Four Seasons. 7. Hotel du Louvre Seventh on the list is Hotel du Louvre. 8. Pullman Eighth is Pullman. 9. Cler Ninth is Cler. 10. J.K. Place Tenth on the list is J.K. Place. 11. Welcome Eleventh is Welcome. 12. Relais Christine Twelfth is Relais Christine. 13. Saint Séverin

Best Areas to Stay in Paris

    • Hotel Website:

Hotel Web Address

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There is no “best neighborhood” for visitors to stay in Paris. Since the top sights – Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame – are distributed around the city center and there’s no “downtown”, much relies on your interests and hotel budget. With over 1,600 lodgings in Paris at last count, the range of accommodation is vast but needn’t be overwhelming.

The most valuable recommendation we can offer for individuals visiting Paris for the first time is to stay within easy walking proximity of a metro station. Of course, what constitutes a “walkable distance” depends on the individual, but as long as it falls within your comfort zone for strolling, you’ll find navigating the city quite straightforward.

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Hotels near a Paris metro station:

Some hotels to consider in Paris include: the Hôtel Madison, the Litteraire Marcel Ayme, the Holiday Inn Paris Opéra, the Le Relais du Marais, the Hotel Barrière Fouquet’s, the Hotel & Spa de Latour Maubourg, the K+K Hôtel Cayré Saint Germain des Prés, the Yuna Les Halles, the Hotel Whistler, and the Hotel du Louvre.

Neighborhoods in Paris

Paris is split into the Right Bank (north of the Seine River) and Left Bank (south of the Seine River) and further divided into 20 administrative districts. These districts are numbered from one to twenty and, starting from just north of the Seine, spiral clockwise. Because of this, the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th districts are the most central, with higher numbers being further out and usually more residential. When navigating, most people will refer to the district or more specifically the closest metro stop. Street names are almost irrelevant as the majority of streets are only a few blocks long or, most confusingly, will change names once you cross into another area.

The inner zones jointly consist of typically risk-free and walkable neighborhoods that incorporate the most noteworthy eateries, shopping, visitor attractions, and renowned landmarks. Two of our preferred Paris territories are the Highly esteemed Maraism on the correct bank (within the 3rd and 4th precincts) and Highly esteemed St-Germain on the left bank (within the 6th). Commonly, the left bank is related with traditional structure and Hemingway hangouts (like the Classic District and Highly esteemed Montparnasse), while the correct bank often tends to be hip and wealthy – the posh 1st, 8th and 16th precincts are above here, alongside edgier South Pigalle and hilltop Highly esteemed Montmartre. The best hotels in Paris and the best hotels for families are spread around this central core but no district has a monopoly on quality lodgings a large building with a clock on the side of it

Accommodations in the historic center are excellent for initial visitors:

Hotel du Louvre • Westin • Hostelry of Brittany • Le Meurice • Great Hotel of the Royal Palace • Hotel of the Continent • Paris Louvre Opera • Timhotel Royal Palace • Bellechasse • Royal Bridge • Montalembert • TheHotel • Christine`s Relay • Saint Severin • Maison Colbert • Welcome Paris • Dame de las Artes

Paris Transportation

Thankfully, Paris is one of the easiest cities in the world for visitors to navigate, even first-timers like the idea that much of the city can be explored on foot or is easily accessed via the comprehensive and trustworthy metro system. Taxis are readily available (including Uber), and there is also a large network of public bicycles that can be utilized.

Destinations outside of walking distance can be accessed by the subway system. Each subway ride necessitates one ticket (irrespective of distance) that costs €1.90. You can obtain tickets from machines located in every station (there’s also a stored-value option if you plan on doing a lot of traveling or are staying overnight). Subway ticket machines accept either cash or a chipped credit card, have an English language function, and give you the choice to purchase a book of 10 tickets for €14.90 (called a carnet) or €7.45 for ages 4 to 9, which provides a discount and saves time if you intend on using the subway often. The subway trains are extremely reliable, and every station has a display informing you of the number of minutes until the next train arrives. The 16 Paris subway lines cover all parts of the city – tickets can also be used on buses, trams, the Montmartre funicular, and RER rapid transit trains within the city. Generally, the subway is the fastest way to get around to avoid traffic.

The Best Places to Stay in Paris

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More Notable Paris Hotels

a book store filled with lots of books I obtained, read thoroughly while highlighting extensively the most recent Paris guides from Lonely Planet,Frommer’s, and Rick Steves. Here are some of their most intriguing hotel selections. (I strongly suggest procuring one of these books before arriving in Paris.)

Lonely Planet:
• Hotel Les Bains ($$$, 3rd arrondissement) – Among the city’s most stylish lifestyle hotels, with 39 bespoke rooms showcasing vintage treasures, luxury fabrics, and eclectic design • Hotel La Comtesse ($$, 7th arrondissement) – This charming boutique hotel offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower from every room.
• The Hôtel Crayon (low-cost, in the 1st arrondissement) has 26 rooms each decorated according to a different color of pencil

Frommer’s:
• The Cheval Blanc ($$$, 1st arrondissement) – Extremely refined location is one of the only hotels overlooking the Seine (the historic section). An extreme splurge to stay here • Hôtel Thérèse ($$, 1st arrondissement) – Just a brief walk from the Palais Royal and Louvre. Beautiful lodgings combine vintage charm with contemporary sophistication.
• Hôtel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais ($, 4th arrondissement) – Considering its prime location in southern Marais, this cozy lodging is an incredible deal.

Rick Steves:
• Hotel Du Cadran ($$, 7th arrondissement) – Centrally located with a wine bar in the lobby.
• Victoire & Germain ($$, 6th arrondissement) – Excellently positioned a short stroll from Boulevard St. Germain. Accommodations offer superb comfort.
• Timhotel Montmartre ($, 18th arrondissement) – The rooms are tastefully designed, skillfully maintained, and offer fair value.

Best Places in Paris for…

  • Best neighborhoods in Paris for investigating: 1st, 7th or 8th Arrondissements
    Most of Paris`s iconic landmarks can be found in the 1st, 7th and 8th. In the 1st arrondissement alone one can visit the Louvre, admire the beautifully stained glasswork of Sainte-Chapelle, stroll through the Tuileries Garden, and enjoy a glass of wine at one of the quaint cafes lining the garden of the Palais Royale. The Place Vendôme, the beautiful plaza where Coco Chanel used to live, is also home to the Ritz Paris, where you can have a drink at Bar Hemingway. You`re also within easy walking distance of Notre Dame Cathedral, the Centre Pompidou, and just across the river from St-Germain and the Latin Quarter. Next door, the 8th contains the Champs-Elysées, Arc de Triomphe, and the best designer shopping in the city, while across the river the 7th incorporates the Eiffel Tower, Invalides, Rodin Museum, and Musée d`Orsay. While staying here can be costly, there are plenty of midrange and budget alternatives too
  • Best Area in Paris for Food and Restaurants: 11th Arrondissement
    The 11th arrondissement is considered the area with the best food options for those interested in a variety of cuisine. Situated just outside central Paris, many up-and-coming chefs have opened restaurants in this locale where rental costs are lower. Mainly attracting a local clientele, prices at eating establishments in the 11th are normally quite affordable as their focus is on relaxed dining and excellent fare rather than stuffy fine dining. Visitors will find an assortment of culinary experiences including recently Michelin-starred establishments, cutting-edge chefs, trendy natural wine bars and more. Examples include sampling pastries and croissants at La Pâtisserie Cyril Lignac, enjoying weekend brunch at Kafkaf, tasting contemporary French cuisine at Papa Poule, and partaking of Latin American fare at Tambo, alongside other eateries offering cuisine such as West African/Senegalese dishes from BALY Restaurant and beyond.

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  • Best Neighborhoods in Paris for Nightlife: Latin Quarter, Le Marais, SoPi
    For great bar-hopping, head over to the Marais. Here you’ll find a diverse mix of everything from “secret” speakeasies to chic cocktail lounges filled with trendy Parisians – it’s also an LGBTQ+ nightlife hub. We like the Pop Art-themed Andy Wahloo bar, the cocktails at Sherry Butt and Résistance, and British-themed bar Cambridge Public House. The Latin Quarter is known as boozy student district, but it’s a fun place to go out. Highlights include live jazz at Caveau de la Huchette, live music and cheap booze at Le Piano Vache, and no-frills local hangout Le Requin Chagrin. For something a little more edgy, the area around South Pigalle (SoPi) offers cabaret shows, concert halls with bands every night, and neighborhood dive bars that bring in a roster of DJs. Dirty Dick is a great little tiki bar, while in complete contrast, the bar at the Maison Souquet hotel is super plush. Lulu White Drinking Club is another favorite, a speakeasy-style bar that serves quality absinthe.
  • Prime Districts in Paris for an Authentic Local Feel: The 11th and 12th Arrondissements
    Within the 11th arrondissement, one can find the true spirit of how locals reside in Paris. Outside of more glamorous neighborhoods like Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais, bistros, fashionable cafés, boutiques and art galleries abound alongside plentiful nightlife. The 11th blends younger Parisians near Oberkampf, families on outskirts to the east, as well as communities from Vietnam, North Africa, and the Middle East calling Paris home. Oberkampf specifically boasts a lively bar and restaurant atmosphere, with popular choices being Pierre Sang in Oberkampf (French-Korean fusion), Le Village (West African cuisine), and local grilled meats/steakhouse chain La Brigade. To the south, around Place de la Bastille also bustles nightly. To immerse oneself, consider the Hotel Fabric, the Hôtel Paris Bastille Boutet,Le Général, or the The People Belleville hostel. To the south of the 11th, within the relatively tourist-free 12th arrondissement lays another authentic slice of Parisian life, with shops, bars including the gem Le Baron Rouge, and markets like the excellent yet economical Marché d`Aligre. One can stroll along the Promenade Plantée, a former elevated railway transformed into a park akin to New York`s High Line, or peruse Bercy Village, former wine warehouses converted into cafés and shops. The budget-friendly The People Bercy also provides an ideal option here, while the Pullman Bercy cultivates more luxury

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  • Most Suitable Neighborhood in Paris for First-Time Visitors: 7th Arrondissement
    The 7th arrondissement is the perfect place to stay for first-time visitors to Paris. Home to iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, notable museums such as the Musée d’Orsay, world-class restaurants, some of the most beautiful architecture in the city, and the charming market street Rue Cler, you’ll experience what most people envision when thinking of Paris. You’ll also benefit from being away from some of the hustle and bustle in neighboring St-Germain while still being close enough to enjoy its wine bars and jazz clubs.
  • Most Romantic Neighborhood in Paris: Montmartre
    The hills of Montmartre offer an ideal setting for a honeymoon or couples visit. The neighborhood provides breathtaking views while maintaining a quaint, village-like ambiance (away from main tourist areas, the locale is refreshingly quiet). Wander along cobblestone lanes or climb the many picturesque inclines and stairways. Stroll past ivy-covered townhouses or the grapes of Paris’s sole winery. Enjoy a picnic on the steps of the Sacré-Cœur and take in one of the best Paris panoramas, especially at sunset.

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  • Best Neighborhoods in Paris for Families: Saint-Germain, Marais, and 1st Arrondissement
    Many areas of Paris are excellent for families, though a few stand out. Depending on children`s ages, St-Germain near Luxembourg Gardens, Marais near Places des Vosges, and the 1st near Tuileries are all very central with excellent playgrounds. All are easily walkable with access to shops, attractions, and restaurants. The Latin Quarter, while not as connected by metro but still very central, could be another district to consider. Visitors still have access to all amenities there as well as a quieter, village-like feel and cheaper hotels. Family-friendly highlights include the Natural History Museum and Jardin des Plantes botanical garden. If kids are a little older, staying in trendy Marais is ideal. With boutiques, galleries, and cafés, it`s great for young adults but also offers plenty of cultural activities like Centre Pompidou.
  • Top Neighborhoods in Paris for Shopping: Marais and 9th Arrondissement
    The Marais district houses shopping options that can satisfy all kinds of shoppers. Visitors will find both high-end boutiques featuring local Parisian designers and more affordable stores. Luxury brands, international retailers, and French chains alike have a presence in the area. While tourists tend to head to iconic department stores like Galeries Lafayette, residents of Paris prefer to shop at the large multi-level retailer BHV. It offers a wide assortment of goods under one roof including tools, cookware, and the latest designer collections. Showing a foreign passport provides an immediate 10% discount. More budget-friendly fashionable boutiques line Rue des Francs Bourgeois and Rue Vieille-du-Temple. First-time visitors shouldn`t neglect exploring the grand department stores in the traditional shopping area. Located in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are impressive landmarks known throughout the city. The surrounding streets feature all manner of fashion retailers. Tourists also receive an immediate 10% off when you show a foreign passport. You’ll find cheaper and more fashionable stores along Rue des Francs Bourgeois and Rue Vieille-du-Temple. First timers shouldn’t skip the traditional “Grands Boulevards” shopping zone entirely: Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps are legendary and beautiful department stores well worth exploring in the heart of the 9th, with Boulevard Haussmann and surrounding streets lined with all sorts of fashion stores. You should also explore the historic “passages”, historic covered malls like Passage Jouffroy, built in 1836, that contain various shops and cafés; Jouffroy contains Hotel Chopin, the antiques at wonderful La Maison Du Roy, and Le Valentin tea room
  • Unsafe Areas of Paris
    Central Paris is generally safe, mainly facing minor crimes like theft. A few areas may seem unsafe especially late, worth knowing if unfamiliar. Neighborhoods like Goutte d`Or (18th) and around metro stops Barbès–Rochechouart and Chateau Rouge (also 18th) can feel unwelcoming at night. Likewise, around Gare du Nord station – busy during day but may attract undesirable after hours. Sadly, Saint-Denis town 7 miles north of Place de la Concorde has a national France reputation for violence, despite containing Stade de France (home of French soccer and rugby) and historic Basilica Cathedral of Saint Denis. Check with Paris Tourism office or hotel before visiting here

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  • Paris Without a Car
    Paris is a city constructed for walking and public transportation, so not having a car during your stay is not only feasible, it`s actually preferable. The city’s comprehensive and efficient public transportation system incorporates the Metro (underground train), RER (suburban trains), buses, trams, and even boats along the Seine, making it simple to navigate the city and its outskirts. For unlimited travel, consider purchasing a Navigo Week Pass for stays of 4 days or more. (The Paris Visite travel card only makes sense for very specific cases). Many of the city’s most famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Champs-Élysées, are easily accessible by a combination of metro and walking. For longer distances, consider renting a Velib` city bike. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are readily available, though they are often more expensive and less efficient than public transportation due to the city’s often congested traffic.

The 10 Best Neighborhoods in Paris for Tourists

1. The Marais and Beaubourg Quartier (3rd and 4th Arrondissements)

a large group of people sitting on a park bencha collage of images showing a street sign The hippest area of Paris, the Marais is characterized by the trendy Parisians who go there to eat, drink, and shop especially in the so-called “Haut Marais”. Though the vibe of the neighborhood leans towards a younger crowd, the Marais’ diversity offers something for all – from its renowned Jewish quarter to the tranquil and historic Place des Vosges (above) and a thriving LGBT scene. Notable attractions include the Musée National Picasso and the Musée Carnavalet, effectively the history museum of Paris – it’s much more expansive than one might think. The moving Mémorial de la Shoah (documenting the effects of the Holocaust on France) and Museum of the Art and History of Judaism are also located here, along with the Maison de Victor Hugo, the home of the renowned 19th-century writer ofLes Misérables.

The Marais is also a great place for exploring local businesses, its narrow roads lined with an assortment of independently-owned stores, galleries, and boutiques. The nearby Beaubourg district is anchored by the structurally unique Centre Pompidou housing its collection of modern artistic works.

• Staying here isn’t budget-friendly, but some exquisite boutique hotels have deals, positioning visitors well in the heart of urban exploration.

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But first, allow me to provide some background about the city itself.

Le Pavillon de la Reine – Telephone number for hotel: +33 1 40 29 19 19
Hôtel de JoBo • Hotel phone: +33 1 48 04 70 48
.” – This line features a link to the Hôtel de JoBo in Paris along with its phone number La Chambre du Marais – Hotel contact number: +33 1 44 78 08 00
The hotel King of Sicily – Rivoli can be reached at +33 1 87 44 20 96 Caron de Beaumarchais • Hotel contact number: +33 1 42 72 34 12

Hôtel De Neuve – Hotel phone: +33 1 44 59 28 50

  • Best Hostels
    The telephone number for the MIJE Marais hotel in Paris is +33 1 42 74 23 45

2. St-Germain-des-Prés (5th and 6th Arrondissements)

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From the upscale shops that populate the busy Boulevard St-Germain to the aristocratic calm of the Jardin du Luxembourg, this district is popular with both locals and visitors. It typically attracts a well-off crowd who come seeking only the biggest names in food and fashion – it’s especially renowned for its contemporary art galleries, especially near the river and west into the 7th arrondissement. In terms of sights, there’s the medieval Church of St-Germain-des-Prés itself, the National Museum Eugène Delacroix dedicated to the 19th-century painter (with a collection of the artist`s personal items and exhibitions of his work), Serge Gainsbourg`s graffiti-covered former house, and to the south the austere Palais du Luxembourg, seat of the French Senate, and the Jardin du Luxembourg, meticulously maintained gardens that provide a pleasant spot for a break.

The public transportation system in Colombia`s capital is more complex than expected. There are about 17 different types of TransMilenio buses to choose from, all traveling to essentially the same destination.

• Hotels here are usually very expensive – however the neighboring Latin Quarter, easily walkable, offers a better selection of more affordable accommodation.

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3. Latin Quarter (5th and 6th Arrondissements)

a crowd of people standing around a body of watera blurry picture of a sign on a cell phone The Latin Quarter is great for those who want a central location with classic Parisian charm while seeking something a little cheaper. Find somewhere away from the student hangouts for which the area is typically associated with and you’ll be strolling cobblestone streets, through leafy squares, and taking in some of the most diverse architecture in the city which includes Roman ruins, gothic spires, and the innovative Institut du Monde Arabe (a cultural center designed by lauded French architect, Jean Nouvel). Great restaurants and wine bars abound in this part of the city, especially on Rue Descartes and the lively market street Rue Mouffetard; lovely Place de la Contrescarpe is an atmospheric place to sit outside at a local bistro or café. There’s a lot to see: the Musée de Cluny is the national museum of medieval history and art, with underground Gallo-Roman baths included, while the enormous Panthéon is the final resting place of several French notables, from philosophers Voltaire and Rousseau to writers Dumas, Hugo, and Zola and scientist Marie Curie. The Sorbonne (aka University of Paris), the most venerated (and oldest) French university, is also here, though you can only get inside on pre-arranged tours (there are lots of great bookshops nearby, though). The sprawling Jardin des Plantes contains several charmingly old-fashioned greenhouses and museums, such as the National Museum of Natural History.Shakespeare and Company, the English-language bookstore founded near the river in 1951 (though it’s only an homage to the earlier Paris bookstore of the same name that published James Joyce’s 1922 novel Ulysses), has become a major sight in its own right – don’t be surprised if you must line up just to get in.

Hotel rates tend to have a lower cost here, when compared to St-Germain and Le Marais.

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4. The 7th Arrondissement

a bridge over a body of water with a clock towera blurry picture of a sign on a white background The 7th contains all the key features commonly associated with thought of Paris – the Eiffel Tower, the Seine River, excellent museums, breathtaking architecture, charming markets, high-end shopping, and world-class restaurants. Its diversity and versatility make it appealing choice for people of all types, whether you’re someone visiting Paris for the first time or a returning guest. In addition to the Eiffel Tower and superb collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works at the Musée d’Orsay, the 7th includes monumental Les Invalides, home to Napoleon’s tomb and the French national army museum, the excellent Musée Rodin, a smaller museum dedicated to artist Aristide Maillol, and the Musée du Quai Branly, a collection of indigenous art from all over the world housed in another futuristic building designed by Jean Nouvel).

Visiting the family-friendly Berges de Seines area will provide a riverfront play area stretching from the Musee D`Orsay to the Pont D`Alma. In the evenings, take a romantic stroll near the Pont Alexander III bridge, one of Paris`s most beautifully designed Beaux-Arts bridges, where you`ll also see views of the Grand Palais on the other side of the Seine River. Be sure to explore Rue Cler, a charming traffic-free street with a village feel lined with upscale shops and cafes.

Accommodations in the 7th tend to be very expensive, with many upscale options particularly near the Eiffel Tower and the Seine – fortunately, it`s relatively easy to visit this area from other parts of the city.

• The Pullman Tour Eiffel is likely the best lodging near the Eiffel Tower (though situated just across the border into the 15th arrondissement).

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5. South Pigalle (SoPi)

people walking down the street with umbrellasa black and white photo of a street sign Visitors wanting a local and authentic Parisian atmosphere should remain in South Pigalle (also called SoPi) in the 9th Arrondissement, located between the Seine and Montmartre. Just south of the former red-light district, this area of the city has become a trendy destination offering quiet tree-lined roads dotted with stylish boutiques, cafes, and a thriving restaurant and bar scene. A few discreet boutique hotels have recently opened, allowing tourists to benefit from its proximity to the hills of Montmartre and the nearby Sacré Coeur. Stroll Rue des Martyrs to observe the scene and gourmet shops, or visit the intriguing museums here, which attract far fewer visitors than the major Parisian attractions: the Musée National Gustave Moreau (dedicated to the 19th-century Symbolist French artist from Paris) and the Musée de la Vie Romantique, in the beautifully-preserved former home and studio of Dutch-born painter Ary Scheffer – it has an entire floor dedicated to iconic 19th-century female writer George Sand (Scheffer’s neighbor).

• Lodging rates at hotels in SoPi generally cost less than other places in the city center, though the higher-end boutique hotels correspondently price their accommodations.

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6. Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)

people walking down a street next to a buildinga black and white photo of a sign on a white wall What makes Montmartre a memorable area of Paris to lodge in are its nostalgic charm and spectacular panoramas of the city. Once an independent hamlet north of central Paris, the neighborhood rose to fame in the late 19th century as an artistic hub. Creative giants such as Degas, Picasso, Renoir and Toulouse-Lautrec were drawn there, pioneering styles like Impressionism. Pioneering the Cubism style early in the 20th century, Picasso, Braque and Gris worked in a former piano factory located on Place Émile Goudeau.

Those era have long passed away, however away from the visitor filled spots like the iconic Sacré-Coeur,Moulin Rouge cabaret, and Place du Tertre, you’ll discover a lot of calm cobblestone roads to wander; with Avenue Junot owning some of the most beautiful houses in Paris and Rue des Saules climbing past the Vigne de Montmartre (Paris’s only vineyard). The street also connects the Montmartre hilltop with the Lamarck-Caulaincourt neighborhood via numerous stretches of stairs, its beauty immortalized by musicians such as Cezanne and Van Gogh. Go to the Musée de Montmartre to learn more about the neighborhood’s illustrious history, and the tranquil Montmartre Cemetery to view the tombs of Stendhal, Berlioz, Degas, and numerous other notable French artists, musicians, and writers.

– There are fewer hotels than expected in Montmartre – apartment rentals are more common here. Rates are higher than in Pigalle, but there are decent budget and mid-range options available. And though it`s somewhat distant from other main attractions, the rest of the city is easily accessible by metro.

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7. The 1st Arrondissement

a crowd of people standing around a large buildinga collage of a picture of a sign on a cell phone This 1st arrondissement encompasses the traditional heart of Paris along the right bank of the Seine River, providing sightseeing opportunities though accommodations may be pricey. You`ll be in the historic center where the original Gaulish settlement was located before Roman rule, with many iconic landmarks within walking distance. There`s the Louvre, Jardin du Palais-Royal and Tuileries Garden (housing Monet`s Water Lilies inside the Musée de l’Orangerie), as well as the cathedrals of Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, and La Conciergerie, the former prison where Marie Antoinette spent her final days, over on Île de la Cité (which is actually split between the 1st and 4th arrondissements), in the middle of the Seine. The Musée D’Orsay and St-Germain are just across the river, and you`ll be able to walk to major performance centers like La Comédie Française and Théâtre du Palais-Royal, with the grand opera house, Palais Garnier, just to the north. The Westfield Forum des Halles here represents the largest shopping center in Paris, occupying the area that was once the city`s central food market. Combined with a fantastic dining scene like some of Paris’s best restaurants such as Le Comptoir des Petits Champs and Restaurant Tamara, and the Palais Royal, visitors have abundant activities both day and night to select from, though it lacks the dynamism of the Latin Quarter and SoPi).

• The Notre Dame Cathedral remains closed following the devastating fire of 2019 – it’s anticipated to reopen to visitors sometime in 2024.

Accommodations in the 1st arrondissement are generally very expensive – there are many upscale options, but also a handful of good mid-priced hotels, listed below.

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8. The 8th Arrondissement

a large building with a clock on the front of ita blurry picture of a sign on a cell phone The 8th arrondissement of Paris, located to the east of the 1st, is another wealthy district on the right bank packed with high-end stores and some of France`s most luxurious hotels. The iconic attraction here is the 1.2-mile Champs-Elysées boulevard lined with boutiques that connects Place de la Concorde with the Arc de Triomphe (where visitors can access the panoramic terrace atop offering breathtaking views). You`ll find additional exclusive flagship stores belonging to designers like Chanel, Christian Louboutin, and Comme des Garçons along Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré and Avenue Montaigne. The magnificent Petit Palais and Grand Palais host art exhibitions and special occasions, while La Galerie Dior recounts the history of the legendary Paris fashion house. Additional attractions include the neoclassical church of La Madeleine, the Musée Cernuschi focusing on Asian art, the Musée Jacquemart-André exhibiting European art from the 15th century, and the Élysée Palace, the official residence of the French president.

• Though luxury hotels dominate, there are some surprising deals to be discovered in the 8th. Lodge here for a more contemporary, upscale Paris experience.

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9. The 16th Arrondissement

people standing in front of a large buildinga drawing of a street sign with a cartoon character on it The primarily upscale 16th lies at the western end of the city center, with its far western half encompassed by the Bois de Boulogne (above), one of the biggest parks in Paris. Here you’ll find boating lakes, an amusement park for kids, and art exhibitions at the futuristic Fondation Louis Vuitton, designed by Frank Gehry. The affluent zone between the park and the Seine is home to the Palais de Tokyo and its modern art museum, and the Trocadéro Gardens, where the National Marine Museum,Aquarium de Paris, the national architecture museum and the Musée de l’Homme (anthropology museum) could take up several days of visits. Debussy and Manet are buried in the nearby Passy Cemetery, while the Hilly Passy district is home to popular restaurants and shops as well as the Musée Marmottan Monet and the Maison de Balzac (dedicated to the famous 19th century writer).

Sports provide an attractive draw at the southern end of the arrondissement; Parc des Princes serves as the home stadium of top European soccer team Paris Saint-Germain (see their website for match tickets), while Stade Roland Garros hosts the French Open, the tennis championship held in late May/early June. If you want to stay near these stadiums, consider Hotel Molitor Paris- MGallery, or the much more affordable ibis Styles Paris 16 Boulogne, both within walking distance.

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10. Montparnasse (14th Arrondissement)

a crowd of people standing outside of a restauranta drawing of a street sign on a cell phone

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This locale is significantly more local, though there are plenty of sights and it`s an appealing (and cost effective) area to stay. The Montparnasse Cemetery is where you`ll find the rest of poet Charles Baudelaire, along with the present and lipstick covered tombs of Serge Gainsbourg and Jean-Paul Sartre/Simone de Beauvoir. Creative highlights comprise the Musée Bourdelle, which preserves the studio of sculptor Antoine Bourdelle, and the Giacometti Institute, which has reconstructed Swiss sculptor Alberto Giacometti’s studio. You can also reserve tours of the Catacombs of Paris, an underground internment ground dating from the late 18th century and currently a noteworthy tourist attraction owing to its walls of bones and other ghastly installations (book beforehand). Ascend the 689-foot Tour Montparnasse for the finest overall view of Paris, or a drink at its panoramic Ciel de Paris bar-restaurant. Finally, you`ll delight in good shopping here, with the neighborhood renowned for elegant boutiques and indie shops as well as the important chains.

• Though Montparnasse is not a great choice for first-time visitors (it’s a little far from the main attractions), returning guests might enjoy the historic atmosphere and lack of tourist crowds.

· Visitors seeking an affordable stay should consider these accommodations; there`s a vast range of inexpensive hotels. While quality may be poor at some, good options are listed below.

Other Paris Neighborhoods

We’ve covered our favored neighborhoods to visit and remain in further detail above, but with added time the following districts are also merits exploring.

  • Parc de La Villette (19th arrondissement): Far in the northeastern corner of the city, the 19th has witnessed many refurbishments in recent years, specifically in the Pont-de-Flandres neighborhood. At its heart is the massive Parc de La Villette and Canal de l’Ourcq, lined with trendy eateries and repurposed warehouses and factories. Children will enjoy the Cité des sciences et de l’industrie (scientific museum with IMAX theater) and the Argonaute Submarine, while the futuristic Paris Philharmonic hosts shows and a museum of music, and the Zénith Paris indoor arena is a major live music venue. To the west lies the Centquatre Paris cultural center, home to concerts, exhibitions, artsy stores, and eateries. The hotels up here do not provide good value – take metro lines #5 or #7 to visit from the city center.
  • Canal Saint-Martin: The 10th arrondissement stretch of this inner-city canal (near Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est) is one of the fashionable districts in Paris, with bohemian coffee shops, waterside restaurants and bars such as El Nopal and Chez Prune, live venues like Bizz’art and walks along Rue Beaurepaire. There is quite a lot of budget and midrange accommodation in the area, like the Generator Paris hostel, ibis Canal Saint-Martin and excellent hotels Hor and Whistler near Gare du Nord.
  • Père Lachaise and Belleville (20th arrondissement): Situated just south of the 19th arrondissement, this area is most renowned as the home of Père Lachaise, the most celebrated cemetery in Paris. Pay homage here by viewing the final resting places of Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Molière, Frédéric Chopin, Édith Piaf, Marcel Proust, and many other prominent French figures. The culturally diverse Belleville neighborhood is also worth exploring, inhabited by sizeable Chinese and African communities and known for its hip bars along Rue de Menilmontant, bustling markets, creatively adorned streets, and the Édith Piaf Museum commemorating its most famous previous resident. To maximize enjoyment of the locale, consider lodging at the excellent Babel Belleville (or the affordable The People hostel).
  • La Défense: The modern commercial and financial district of Paris lies 3 miles west of the Arc de Triomphe, at the terminus of the subway line number 1. While not fitting the typical vision of Paris that most visitors envision, it does attract tourists nonetheless: Between the shiny skyscrapers of steel and glass lies the massive Les Quatre Temps shopping center, the monumental Grande Arche (a contemporary glass and concrete replica of the Arc de Triomphe reaching 360 feet in height), and an open-air museum housing statues and modern artworks by artists such as Joan Miró, Alexander Calder, and others scattered around the central Esplanade. Most only linger here for occupational purposes or to see a show at the Paris La Défense Arena: citizenM,Meliá, and Renaissance offer fine lodging choices, often at much lower rates than equivalent hotels in central Paris.
  • Disneyland Paris: Those acquainted with Disney`s US parks may doubt visiting the Parisian version, yet kids still love Europe`s most visited theme park, some 20 miles east of the city core. Comprising Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, it’s a relatively effortless day outing by train (to Marne-la-Vallee Chessy station) or through the Disneyland Paris Express bus (45 min). Additionally, there are seven Disney hotels on site, alongside an assortment of less expensive lodging just outside the park – Hotel l’Elysee Val d’Europe is the best option.
  • Versailles: Although frequently occupied by guided tours, the palace constructed for the Sun King stands as one of Europe`s most visited heritage sites due to its phenomenal array of lavishly decorated rooms, halls, gardens and mini palaces across 2,000 landscaped acres. Versailles also functions as an easy day trip from Paris by train (around 30 minutes), but visitors can likewise lodge at the luxurious Waldorf Astoria Trianon Palace or the highly exclusive Airelles Le Grand Contrôle situated directly on the palace grounds. An excellent lower-cost option nearby includes Hotel Du Jeu De Paume.
  • Unless you have a very early flight or late arrival, it generally does not make sense to stay at either of the city`s airports. For Orly Airport, situated 10 miles south of the city center, travel to and from by public transportation can be time consuming. In this case, the best choice is the Novotel Coeur d’Orly. Charles de Gaulle Airport has a more convenient direct train link to Gare du Nord in around 35 minutes. But if staying near this airport is necessary, the preferable option is the citizenM Charles de Gaulle.

Paris Travel Tips

  • Paris contains two primary airports: Paris Orly (to the south) and Charles de Gaulle (likewise called CDG, to the north). Regular RER (rapid transportation) trains quickly move between CDG and core Paris in roughly 30–40 minutes, but from Orly you must initially take buses to RER stations and transfer to trains for ongoing connections into the center. Cabs are quite expensive; from CDG, approximately €53 to the right bank, and €58 to the left. From Orly it will be around €32 (left bank) to €37 (right bank).
  • Almost everyone in Paris that serves tourists will know some English. However, it’s still helpful to learn a few words and numbers in French (especially useful in bars, cafés and restaurants).
  • Several tourist discounts and passes cover Paris attractions – if one intends to do extensive sightseeing, it’s worth examining these options, though it can become intricate. Essentially, the longer the validity period of the pass and the more sights packed in, the more money saved by using one. The two primary passes are the Paris Passlib’ (based on 3, 5, or 6 experiences per card, priced from €35–119), and the Paris Pass (2, 3, 4 or 6-day unlimited use options). The Paris Pass costs more (€124+) but provides significantly more value. Paris Passlib’ is normally better for individuals or couples focused on specific museums, while Paris Pass tends to offer better value for families wanting to pack many sightseeing experiences into a single trip (hop-on hop-off bus tours, for example). It’s frustrating, but our guidance is to pinpoint exactly what you want to do beforehand and compare costs before buying any of these passes.
  • Bicycle rental is available through a bike-sharing service called Vélib’ Métropole, which has 1,400 docking stations and 20,000 bicycles (including electric bikes) in Paris. Other bike/scooter sharing services in Paris include Dott, Lime, and Pony. While Paris isn`t a bad place to ride bikes, with many bike lanes and trails, using public transportation is very efficient and inexpensive, and the city center is easily walkable – renting a bike probably isn`t necessary just to get around – unless you truly enjoy riding them and plan to extensively explore the riverside paths or outer suburbs.
  • Free Wi-Fi access is available at Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports, as well as at cafes, restaurants, and museums throughout the city itself. The gratis Paris Wi-Fi service can also be accessed at hotspots across the city center: look for the “PARIS_WI-FI_” network.

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Welcome to my travel website! I’m Mary Howard, an American who has been exploring the world full-time for 8 years.

Together with my husband, Intan, we often find ourselves in our second home, Bali, but our adventures take us to exciting destinations all over the globe.

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