Whether you’ve been here before or whether this is your first trip, getting to know where to stay in Paris right is of upmost importance.
From great nightlife to world class shopping, every neighbourhood of the city has a unique offering that will influence your stay. To help you decide, we’ve compiled a guide for each of Paris’s coolest areas. From what to see to where to eat, here’s our rundown of the best places to stay in Paris.
Marais
The trendiest district in Paris, the Marais is defined by the hip Parisians who come to eat, drink and shop in this uber cool quarter.
Though the character of the neighborhood leans towards a younger audience, the Marais’s diversity offers something for everyone. Ranging from its famed Jewish quarter to the historic Place des Vosges.
For visitors who’ve already checked off every place in their checklist, the Marais is the perfect place to understand Paris outside of the guidebooks.
Saint Germain
Saint Germain holds the timeless charm of the Left Bank while buzzing with a lively array of galleries, restaurants, and jazz clubs. From the upscale shops that are situated along the bustling Boulevard Saint Germain to the aristocratic peace of the Jardin du Luxembourg, this district is popular with locals and tourists.
This neighborhood typically attracts a well-heeled crowd who come seeking only the biggest names in fashion and food. Though at times the area may feel overrun with tourists, the biggest advantage is that you’ll find many shops and restaurants open in Summer while other areas of the city are quiet.
Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is great for those who want a central location with classic Parisian appeal while seeking something a little softer.
Find somewhere away from the student hangouts for which the area is typically associated with and you’ll find yourself strolling down cobblestone streets, through leafy squares, and taking in some of the most varied architecture the city has to offer including the Roman ruins, gothic spires, and the innovative Institut du Monde Arabe.
Great restaurants and wine bars overflow in this part of the city as well as the lively market street Rue Mouffetard.
The 7th Arrondissement
The 7th has everything you think of when you think of Paris.
There’s the Eiffel Tower, the Seine, excellent museums, breathtaking architecture, lovely markets, high-end shopping, and world-class restaurants. Its versatility and diversity make it a popular choice for everyone, whether you’re looking for a family vacation or even a romantic getaway. Visit the family-friendly Berges de Seines and you’ll have a riverfront play area that stretches from the Musee d’Orsay to the Pont D’Alma.
At night time, feel free to take a romantic stroll near the Pont Alexander III bridge, one of the most beautiful Beaux-Arts bridges in Paris where you’ll also have a view of the Grand Palais just on the other side of the Seine. Be sure to explore Rue Cler, a charming market street that has a village-like feel and gives you a small piece of Parisian life.
South Pigalle
South Pigalle is the place to stay for tourists wanting a local Paris vibe. Just south of the former red light district, the city’s most up-and-coming destination offers tranquil tree-lined streets dotted with fashionable boutiques, cafes, and a flourishing restaurant and bar scene. A few tucked away boutique hotels have popped up in recent years, allowing tourists to take advantage of its vicinity to the hills of Montmartre and nearby Sacre Coeur.
Montmartre
Montmartre’s beauty and breathtaking views are the biggest reasons to stay in this part of Paris. Though it’s a bit far from the other main attractions, you can easily reach the rest of the city by metro or explore this neighborhood’s unique history.
Away from the touristy spots such as the Sacre Couer, Moulin Rouge, and Place du Tertre, you’ll find calm cobblestone streets to wander with Avenue Junot having some of the most beautiful houses in Paris or Rue des Saules which climbs past the Vigne de Montmartre (Paris’s only vineyard). The street also connects the Montmartre hilltop with the Lamarck-Caulaincourt neighborhood with various ranges of stairs where its beauty was immortalized by artists such as Cezanne and Van Gogh.
The 1st Arrondissement
The 1st arrondissement is a great base for sightseeing. Not only is it known as the business district, but you will also be in the heart of Paris with many of the city’s sights within walking distance. These sights include the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, and Notre Dame Cathedral while the Musee D’Orsay and Saint Germain are just across the river. Combined with a fantastic dining scene including some of Paris’s best restaurants like Spring and Verjus, visitors have an abundance of activities to choose from both day and night.