Best Areas to Stay in Paris: Complete Neighborhood Guide

Paris, one of the most frequented cities in Europe, is often included in every traveler’s itinerary. Its allure is undeniable; the city brims with history, sophistication, charm, and abundantly, romance. As home to iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, the distinctiveness of this quintessential French city varies from one district to another.

Whether you are orchestrating your inaugural visit to the “City of Light” or your tenth, discerning where to allocate your time and selecting suitable accommodations will invariably be among the foremost queries. Familiarizing yourself with the city’s layout can facilitate making well-informed choices.

Prior to delving into the enumeration of neighborhoods, it is beneficial to understand that Paris is organized into the Right Bank (north of the River Seine) and the Left Bank (south of the River Seine). Additionally, street names are seldom referenced, as they often extend merely a few blocks. Instead, neighborhoods are identified as Arrondissements (districts), numbered from the 1^st to the 20^th.

Here follows an extensive overview of some of the premier areas to consider for your stay in Paris.

Latin Quarter – 5^th Arrondissement

The Latin Quarter, situated on the Left Bank, is among the oldest districts and is particularly well-suited for enthusiasts of history and architecture. Teeming with students and scholars, this area is replete with significant structures that epitomize the essence of antiquity. Noteworthy attractions in the arrondissement include Arènes de Lutèce—a Roman amphitheater constructed in the 1^st century, Thermes de Cluny—ruins of a Gallo-Roman thermal bath dating back to the 3^rd century, and the Panthéon, originally a church and now a mausoleum established between 1758-1790. The Sorbonne University (University of Paris), rooted in the Middle Ages, is also a recommended visit. The Latin Quarter boasts numerous restaurants—both themed and traditional—and vibrant shopping avenues, particularly Rue Mouffetard, renowned for its lively market atmosphere.

Ideal For: History buffs and art enthusiasts, young adventurers.
Additional Highlights: Jardin du Luxembourg, Musée Cluny, St. Michel District, Église Saint-Séverin Saint-Nicolas, Musée National d’Histoire Naturelle, and Seine-side quays.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Select Hotel – Centrally located in the Latin Quarter, this hotel offers proximity to multiple metro stations and popular attractions. It ensures complimentary breakfast and ample ensuite amenities, making it a commendable choice for solo travelers.
• Hotel Henri 4 – A 17^th century establishment just minutes away from Notre Dame Cathedral, this property lies between the vibrant streets of St. Michael and St. Germain. It is particularly attractive for aficionados of art, history, and gastronomy.
• Résidence & Spa Le Prince Régent – Situated within a 2-minute reach of Old Sorbonne University, this aparthotel combines luxury hotel amenities with a homely ambiance. Facilities include a luxurious spa, fully-equipped kitchen, indoor pool, and quick access to the nearest metro, making it ideal for families and couples.

Montmartre – 18^th Arrondissement

Montmartre, often celebrated as one of the most romantic districts in Paris, is a large hill positioned on the Right Bank. Revered for its historic ambiance, the striking white-domed Basilica of Sacre-Coeur, and a vibrant nightlife scene, this iconic hilltop is adorned with quaint cafes and artists creating on the cobbled streets. With its colorful buildings, vintage shops, and cozy atmosphere, it exudes a village-like charm. Notable attractions include Cimitière du Nord— a 19^th century necropolis recognized as the third largest in the city, Espace Dalí—an exhibition honoring the work of Salvador Dalí, and the renowned Moulin Rouge. A promenade along Rue de Steinkerque caters to diverse shopping needs.

Ideal For: Couples, art and history enthusiasts, young explorers.
Additional Highlights: Musée de Montmartre, Musée de la Vie Romantique, Place du Tertre, Place des Abbesses, and Moulin de la Galette.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Hôtel des Arts Montmartre – Located only 400 meters from the Moulin Rouge, this hotel is nestled in the heart of Montmartre, providing convenient access to two nearby metro stations. Request a room with a view overlooking the district. Ideal for solo travelers and couples.
• Maison Lepic Montmartre – Featuring a garden, shared lounge, terrace, and exceptionally easy access to several popular attractions, this hotel ranks among the best in the area. Perfect for couples and small families.
• Terrass” Hôtel Montmartre by MH – Housed in a 19^th century building with views of the Eiffel Tower, this hotel is recognized as one of the top luxury properties in the region, offering exceptional facilities. A great choice for couples and families, particularly luxury travelers.

Le Marais – 3^rd and 4^th Arrondissement

Le Marais, another historic district on the Right Bank of the River Seine, is a significant destination for art lovers. It boasts some of the most distinguished art galleries and museums worldwide, including Musée Picasso, Musée Cognacq-Jay, which showcases the collection of Théodore-Ernest Cognacq and Marie-Louise Jay, and the largest French museum dedicated to Jewish art and history (Musée d’Art et d’Histoire du Judaïsme). This area evolved into a prominent LGBT hub in the 1980s, resulting in approximately 40% of LGBT businesses in the city being clustered within the streets of Le Marais. In addition to its rich historical background, Le Marais features numerous bars, fine restaurants, trendy boutiques, and a vibrant atmosphere. Rue des Francs Bourgeois is ideal for those wishing to shop for iconic Parisian brands.

Ideal For: Solo travelers, couples, families, the LGBT community, young visitors.
Additional Highlights: Musée Carnavalet, Paroisse Saint Paul- Saint Louis, Jardin Anne Frank, Le Carreau du Temple, and Place des Vosges.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Paris Boutik: Suite “La Librairie du Marais” – Just a few minutes’ walk from Place de la République, this boutique hotel is rich in style and opulence, complemented by a wealth of facilities. Suitable for couples and families.
• La Chambre du Marais – This property is situated close to numerous significant attractions within the 3^rd and 4^th arrondissement and offers excellent amenities, including an on-site bar, delightful breakfast, and parking facilities. Suitable for solo travelers and couples.
• Le Roi de Sicile – Chic Apartment Hotel & Services – A stylish aparthotel located in the 4^th arrondissement, featuring sumptuous guest rooms equipped with fully-equipped kitchens and bathrooms, optional breakfast, and convenient access to public transport and metro systems. Ideal for all types of luxury travelers.

Champs-Elysées – 8^th Arrondissement

Commonly referred to as the “most beautiful avenue in the world,” Champs-Elysées is a district that should not be overlooked in the City of Lights. This area integrates history with modernity, featuring some of the city’s most stunning structures alongside countless luxury shopping opportunities, fine dining establishments, and entertainment venues. The avenue extends from Place de la Concorde to Place Charles de Gaulle and is recognized as the site for the annual Bastille Day Military Parade. Prominent tourist attractions in the vicinity include the Arc de Triomphe, Théâtre des Champs Elysées, and the Lido Cabaret—operating since 1946. A walk through the Tuilerie Gardens allows for ample admiration of the Jardin des Tuileries.

Ideal For: All types of travelers.
Additional Highlights: Rue Poncelet, Grand Palais and Petit Palais, Concorde, Montaigne Avenue, and the Invalides.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Petit Madeleine Hôtel – Just a 5-minute walk from the luxury boutiques of Faubourg Saint-Honoré and moments from Miromesnil metro, this elegant property features exquisite guest rooms with modern conveniences. Suitable for solo travelers and couples.
• Hotel Ekta Champs Elysées – Located within a few minutes of the Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe, this classy hotel offers exceptional rooms and suites, complemented by an on-site bar and communal lounge. Perfect for couples and families.
• Le 123 Elysees – Astotel – Situated in the heart of the 8^th arrondissement, this hotel provides soundproof rooms featuring luxury facilities such as iPod docking stations and four-poster beds. High-end shops surround the property, and the Paris Christmas Market is located only 5 minutes away. Ideal for all types of luxury travelers.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés – 6th Arrondissement

Saint-Germain-des-Prés stands out as one of the most sophisticated districts in Paris, characterized by its rich artistic and historical heritage. This Left Bank hotspot boasts upscale art galleries, illustrious museums, designer boutiques, eclectic eateries, and the city’s oldest church, the Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Remarkably popular among both locals and expatriates, the district has housed notable figures such as Picasso, Claude Monet, and Auguste Renoir. The nearby Musée d’Orsay, located in the 7^th arrondissement, is renowned for its exceptional collection of Impressionist art. Moreover, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is an excellent locale for indulging the art of “flâneur”—a leisurely stroll. The beautiful gardens of Jardin du Luxembourg should not be overlooked.

Ideal For: History buffs.
Additional Highlights: Palais du Luxembourg, Musée national Eugène Delacroix, Théâtre de l’Odéon, Boulevard Saint-Germain, and Le Bon Marché.

Accommodations Suggested:

• La Perle – Centrally located within the district, La Perle offers beautifully adorned guest rooms in close proximity to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre. Suitable for couples, families, and groups of up to 4 guests.
• Hotel De Seine – Featuring a period decor style, this historic hotel is located only a couple of minutes’ walk from the nearest metro and approximately 500 meters from Pont Neuf and Luxembourg Garden, ideally suited for all types of travelers.
• Millésime Hôtel – A 17^th century property offering world-class amenities, Millésime epitomizes Parisian luxury and grandeur. A 10-minute walk leads to the former royal palace, the Louvre. Perfect for luxury travelers.

Rue Oberkampf – 11th Arrondissement

For those who revel in dynamic nightlife, the Oberkampf district is replete with bars of various styles, ranging from cozy basements to luxurious rooftop venues. Found on the Right Bank, this area is among the most densely populated in Europe. Exceptionally diverse and captivating, Rue Oberkampf allows you to discover several popular attractions, including the Place de la République and the Place de la Bastille. This locale is regarded as one of the trendiest in the city, with Le Bataclan serving as a celebrated venue for numerous national and international music performances.

Ideal For: All types of travelers, especially the young.
Additional Highlights: Musée Edith Piaf, Opéra Bastille, Cimitière du Père Lachaise, Bois de Vincennes, and Rue de Charonne.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Hôtel La Nouvelle République – A 3-star establishment conveniently located just minutes from notable attractions, this hotel features soundproof guest rooms equipped with all contemporary facilities. Suitable for couples and families.
• La Maison de Léa – An elegant B&B style property within walking distance of Bastille and Père Lachaise cemetery, offering superb guest rooms with modern amenities such as a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, and a delightful breakfast included. Ideal for couples and solo travelers.
• Hôtel Fabric – Formerly a textile factory, this hotel has been transformed into a luxurious accommodation, featuring access to a fitness center and hammam. The communal lounge serves a lavish buffet breakfast each morning. Perfect for couples and families.

Belleville and Ménilmontant – between 19th and 20th Arrondissement

Historically esteemed as a primary wine-producing retreat for Parisians, Belleville and Ménilmontant are located on the Right Bank of Paris. Home to the renowned Père Lachaise Cemetery, the final resting place of numerous celebrities, including Jim Morrison and Oscar Wilde, the area emanates a bohemian ambiance and features the second-largest Chinatown in the city. A trek up the Parc de Belleville offers panoramic vistas of the city, while Rue de Belleville is essential for culinary enthusiasts. Canal Saint-Martin, situated in the 10^th arrondissement, is also a short distance away.

Ideal For: All types of travelers, particularly food lovers.
Additional Highlights: Musée National Picasso, Place des Vosges, Musée des Arts et Métiers, Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and Rue D’noyez.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Hôtel Comete Paris – Located a 15-minute walk from the illustrious Père Lachaise Cemetery, this space-themed hotel offers cozy rooms adorned in warm tones along with numerous modern amenities. Excellent for all types of travelers, including larger groups of five or more.
• Hotel Scarlett – Guests can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and an on-site bar at this delightful property, which is less than 2 kilometers from Place de la République. Ideal for couples and families.

Quartier Pigalle – between 9th and 18th Arrondissement

Pigalle, an infamous tourist hub in Paris, is located on the Right Bank and is recognized for its adult entertainment establishments. Home to the world-renowned cabaret, Moulin Rouge, this district was once dubbed “Pig Alley” due to its notorious reputation. However, South Pigalle is notable for its retail shops dedicated to music and musical instruments. Having served as a residence for artists such as Picasso, van Gogh, and André Breton, Pigalle presents an ideal environment for experiencing a vibrant nightlife. Nestled at the base of Montmartre, this area now attracts a more sophisticated crowd to its various stylish cocktail lounges, trendsetting bistros, and boutique cafes.

Ideal For: Young couples and solo travelers.
Additional Highlights: Musée Gustave Moreau, Rue des Martyrs, and Divan du Monde.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Hotel Joyce – Astotel – Only a 15-minute walk from the Opera Garnier, Hotel Joyce boasts comfortable, fully furnished guest rooms, equipped with premium services such as soundproofing, organic toiletries, and a minibar. The delightful lounge area adds to its charm. Ideal for all types of travelers.
• Hotel Saint-Louis Pigalle – Modern amenities, a delicious breakfast, and a 24-hour front desk are among the outstanding services offered at this establishment, situated just minutes from Sacré-Cœur and Opéra Garnier. Suitable for couples and families.
• Grand Pigalle Hotel – A prime example of Parisian sophistication, the luxurious accommodations at Grand Pigalle include flat-screen TVs, radios, and telephones. The Moulin Rouge and Sacré-Cœur are only a short distance away, making it ideal for solo travelers and couples.

Canal Saint-Martin – 10th Arrondissement

Canal Saint-Martin is an extended waterway connecting Canal de l’Ourcq to the River Seine, situated on the Right Bank, commencing from Place de Stalingrad and concluding at Quai de la Râpée. The canal was commissioned under Napoleon in 1802 and completed in 1825. The surroundings of Canal Saint-Martin are favored by both locals and tourists. One of the most popular leisure activities is taking a passenger cruise to relish the tranquil waters of the canal. Numerous stylish bars and charming bistros are also dispersed throughout the neighborhood.

Ideal For: All types of travelers.
Additional Highlights: Promenade Canal St. Martin, Musée de l’Éventail, Place de la République, and Palais des Glaces.

Accommodations Suggested:

• Helussi Hôtel – Just moments away from the nearest metro station and a 15-minute stroll to the Montmartre district, Helussi Hotel features a 24-hour front desk, safety deposit boxes in the guest rooms, complimentary sauna, and a business center. Suitable for couples and business travelers.
• 1er Etage Opéra – Named after the nearby Opera Garnier, this property presents modern living within a 19^th-century building, complete with various amenities such as concierge services, continental breakfast, and a communal kitchen. Ideal for couples.
• Hotel 34B – Astotel – Among the exemplary boutique hotels of the Astotel collection, Hotel 34B features designer rooms equipped with world-class amenities and services. The Louvre, Opera Garnier, and Tuileries Garden are all just a short walk away from the property. Perfect for solo travelers and couples.
• Hotel Whistler – Tucked away from the vibrant streets of Belleville/Ménilmontant, this luxurious property is within 1.5 kilometers of Sacré-Cœur and La Cigale Concert Hall and is celebrated for its outstanding breakfast. Additional facilities include an in-house hammam, a communal lounge, and a 24-hour front desk. Ideal for all types of luxury travelers.