A Parisian Breakdown: What Each Arrondissement Really Feels Like (and Which Ones Locals Love)
This is the real guide to spending your vacation in Paris and getting it right!
Planning a trip to Paris? One of the first big decisions is where to stay. And with twenty arrondissements, it can feel a bit overwhelming. The right neighborhood will make you fall in love in the City of Love. The wrong one? Let’s say you might spend more time dodging tourist traps than sipping wine on a quiet terrace.
This guide takes you through all 20 arrondissements, from the postcard scenes of the Latin Quarter to the magic of Montmartre. You’ll get a feel for what each district is really like, not just what the brochures say. Whether you’re after museum-hopping, lazy café mornings, nightlife, or somewhere more local and low-key, there’s a corner of Paris that suits you.
Locals definitely have their favorites (and ones they avoid). So, I’ve included tips based on personal experience and time spent with my Parisian friends who know the city inside out.
What Are The Arrondissements And How Do They Work?
It’s always good to understand how a city works, especially if this is your first visit. And Paris is a city you’ll just want to keep coming back to, so knowing where to go to make the most of your time is important.
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, which are administrative districts. These arrondissements are arranged in a clockwise spiral, starting from the city’s centre.
This spiral layout is often likened to a snail shell, with the 1st arrondissement at the centre, spiralling outwards to the 20th on the edge.
Each arrondissement has its own mayor, town hall, and unique administrative setup, catering to the local residents’ needs.
Difference Between Arrondissements and Quarters
Arrondissements are the larger administrative divisions in Paris, and they help with city governance and administration, providing a broad categorisation of the city’s different parts.
Each arrondissement has its own character, landmarks, and attractions, contributing to the diverse tapestry of Paris.
Quarters, on the other hand, are smaller subdivisions within each arrondissement. There are four quarters in each arrondissement, making a total of 80 quarters in Paris.
These quarters are more about the neighbourhood’s identity and less about administrative purposes.
They offer a more intimate understanding of the city’s layout, highlighting unique characteristics and local vibes.
One of the most renowned quarters in Paris is the Marais. Located primarily in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, the Marais is a quarter known for its deep historical roots, beautiful architecture, and lively cultural scene.
Map of Paris Arrondissements
Paris Arrondissements Ranked: A Quick Guide
| Arrondissement | Nickname | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | The Heart of Paris | Louvre Museum, Tuileries Garden, Palais Royal | Art lovers, First-time visitors |
| 2nd | Bourse | Stock Exchange, Passages Couverts | Business travellers, Shoppers |
| 3rd | Le Marais (Part 1) | Picasso Museum, Historic Mansions, Trendy Boutiques | Art enthusiasts, Fashionistas |
| 4th | Le Marais (Part 2) | Notre-Dame, Place des Vosges, Vibrant Nightlife | History buffs, Nightlife seekers |
| 5th | Latin Quarter | Pantheon, Sorbonne University | Students, History enthusiasts |
| 6th | Saint-Germain-des-Prés | Luxurious Boutiques, Café Culture, Literary History | Intellectuals, Shoppers |
| 7th | Eiffel Tower District | Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Rue Cler Market | Romantics, First-time visitors |
| 8th | Champs-Élysées | Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Luxury Shopping | Luxury travellers, Shoppers |
| 9th | Opéra | Opéra Garnier, Grands Boulevards, Shopping | Culture seekers, Shoppers |
| 10th | Canal Saint-Martin | Canal St. Martin, Trendy Restaurants, Nightlife | Foodies |
| 11th | Bastille | Vibrant Nightlife, Trendy Bars, Artisanal Shops | Nightlife enthusiasts, Young couples |
| 12th | Bercy | Bercy Village, Bois de Vincennes, Promenade Plantée | Families, Nature lovers |
| 13th | Chinatown | Largest Chinatown in Europe, Modern Library | Foodies, Culture enthusiasts |
| 14th | Montparnasse | Montparnasse Tower, Catacombs, Artist Studios | Art lovers, History buffs |
| 15th | Vaugirard | Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, Quiet Residential Area | Business travellers, Families |
| 16th | Passy | Trocadéro, Museums, Upscale Residential | Luxury travellers, Families |
| 17th | Batignolles-Monceau | Parc Monceau, Markets, Off the beaten path | Explorers, Families |
| 18th | Montmartre | Sacré-Cœur, Artists’ Square, Bohemian Atmosphere | Artists, Romantics |
| 19th | Buttes-Chaumont | Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, La Villette, Cultural Venues | Nature lovers, Families |
| 20th | Belleville | Père Lachaise Cemetery, Vibrant Art Scene | Adventurers, Culture seekers |
Where to stay in Paris for the first time
If it’s your first time visiting the City of Love, then you’ll want to be in the heart of the action so you can easily get around and see all the attractions on your list.
Whether you’re drawn to the art and history of the 1st, the trendy and vibrant atmosphere of Le Marais, or the intellectual charm of the Latin Quarter, these three arrondissements are perfect for first-time visitors to Paris.
1st Arrondissement: The Heart of Paris
The 1st arrondissement places you at the epicentre of Parisian history and culture. It’s home to the Louvre, one of the world’s largest and most visited museums, as well as the Tuileries Garden and Palais Royal. Ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in Paris’s rich history and art.
The area is also known for its elegant architecture and upscale shopping, particularly around Place Vendôme.
3rd and 4th Arrondissements: Le Marais
Le Marais is a dynamic blend of old and new Paris and is one of my favourites, as I love the medieval streets all telling their own story, not to mention the super trendy boutiques and fun nightlife.
It’s culturally rich, with a strong sense of community and history, including the historic Jewish quarter and the beautiful Place des Vosges. I’m a sucker for history, and it’s here you’ll find the house of Nicolas Flamel, the alchemist mentioned in the Harry Potter book, ‘The Philospher’s Stone’.
There are also plenty of cafes, bars, and artisan shops, as well as some great cultural attractions, including the Picasso Museum and the Centre Pompidou.
5th Arrondissement: Latin Quarter
Another one of my favourite areas known for its intellectual history and vibrant student life, the Latin Quarter is home to the Sorbonne University and the Panthéon.
It’s a great area for those interested in Paris’s academic and literary history, with lots of affordable restaurants.
The narrow streets are filled with bookshops, cinemas, and cafes, plus it’s close to the Luxembourg Gardens, the perfect place for a picnic in the city.
If you love movies and you’ve seen the Woody Allen movie, Midnight in Paris, you’ll see some familiar streets. The Latin Quarter is where Owen Wilson’s character goes on his midnight stroll and gets whisked back to the 1920s.
Where to stay in the Latin Quarter and the Marais
| Hotel Name | Arrondissement | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1K Paris | 3rd | Modern design, Peruvian restaurant, located near Marais’s trendy boutiques. |
| Hôtel du Plat d’Etain | 3rd | Classic Parisian charm, close to Arts et Métiers Museum, comfortable rooms. |
| Hôtel Duo | 4th | Contemporary design, fitness centre, and bar, in the heart of Le Marais. |
| Hôtel Beaubourg | 4th | Near Centre Pompidou, terrace with views, cosy ambience. |
| Hotel La Lanterne & Spa | 5th | Boutique hotel, spa and wellness centre, near Notre Dame and the Pantheon. |
| Hotel Les Bulles De Paris | 5th | Champagne-themed hotel, close to the Sorbonne, with unique decor. |
The 7 Best Arrondissements To Stay In Paris For Your Vacation
To help you plan your trip to Paris, I’ve broken the arrondissements into seven sections so you can choose which one is a priority for you.
No. 1 Best area to stay in Paris with family
7th Arrondissement: Rue Cler and Eiffel Tower District
The 7th is quintessentially Parisian and is close to the Eiffel Tower. It’s ideal for families as it’s much quieter than being in the heart of the city, and things go at a more relaxed pace but with the advantage of not straying far from iconic attractions.
It’s close to the Champ de Mars, perfect for family picnics if you want to avoid the expense of going to a restaurant, and it’s home to several family-friendly museums like the Musée d’Orsay. There is almost a village-like atmosphere with the open-air markets and quaint cafes, which I love.
12th Arrondissement: Bercy and Bois de Vincennes
The 12th is perfect for families looking for green spaces and recreational activities as it’s a bit more residential and a bit further away from the city’s hustle and bustle. One of my favourite places here is the Musée des Arts Forains, the Fairground Museum. It’s perfect for kids and is home to lots of vintage fairground rides including some wonderful vintage carousels.
And Bois de Vincennes, with its zoo, floral garden, and boating lakes, is a fantastic place to let the kids run around and get rid of their surplus energy.
The Bercy Village is actually a converted wine warehouse, and you’ll find loads of shops, restaurants, and a cinema, a great place to hang out in the evening with the kids.
Where to stay in the 7th and 12th Arrondissements
| Hotel | Arrondissement | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Alberte Hôtel | 7th | Close to Eiffel Tower, modern amenities, highly rated for comfort and location. |
| Cler Hotel | 7th | A short walk from the Eiffel Tower offers a terrace and 24-hour reception located on a vibrant market street. |
| Hotel Terminus Lyon | 12th | Directly opposite Gare de Lyon, convenient for families using public transport, offers family rooms. |
| ibis Styles Paris Bercy | 12th | Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, offers breakfast included in the price, close to Bercy Park and village. |
| Hôtel de la Porte Dorée | 12th | Eco-friendly hotel, offers family rooms, near Bois de Vincennes and the zoo, providing a quiet retreat in the city. |
No. 2 Best arrondissement to stay in Paris for couples
18th Arrondissement: Montmartre
I know I said this about the Latin Quarter and Le Marais, but Montmatre is my absolute favourite Paris arrondissement. I think the draw for me is the connection with starving artists and creatives over the years and, of course, the Moulin Rouge with all its history.
Montmartre is synonymous with romance, so is my top pick for couples.
Is there anything more romantic than wandering hand in hand through the winding streets of Montmatre and then stopping in Artist’s Square for a glass of wine whilst watching the artists hard at work?
And let’s not forget the stunning views of Paris from the Sacré-Cœur, but maybe take the funicular rather than walking the three hundred-plus steps to the top.
6th Arrondissement: Saint-Germain-des-Prés
I stayed in the 6th recently in December at Hotel Pont Royal, which was wonderful, as Saint-Germain-des-Prés was a favourite of the literary greats such as Simone de Beauvoir, JF. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway.
And it’s just packed with chic cafes, bookshops, and art galleries.
If you’re a lover of books, don’t miss an opportunity to eat at Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, famous haunts of not just the writers, but the philosophers too, and the Luxembourg Gardens is the perfect place to walk off your lunch.
Where to stay in the 18th and 6th Arrondissements
| Hotel | Arrondissement | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Romantic Artist Room Montmartre B&B | 18th | Steps from Sacré-Cœur offers a cosy, artistic setting. |
| Hôtel Particulier Montmartre | 18th | Luxurious rooms and private suites in a secluded garden. |
| Hôtel Récamier | 6th | Elegant rooms on Place Saint-Sulpice, blending modern and traditional decor. |
| La Villa Madame | 6th | Hidden gem with a peaceful courtyard garden and beautifully decorated rooms. |
| Hôtel des Académies et des Arts | 6th | Dedicated to creative spirits, surrounded by art and design, in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. |
No 3 Best arrondissement to stay in Paris for food
We’ve already mentioned Le Marais as one of the best arrondissements for first-time visitors to Paris, but it’s also a foodie hotspot.
You’ll find an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and bistros offering everything from traditional French cuisine to international dishes. The area is particularly known for its Jewish bakeries and delis, as well as trendy cafes. They also have the best variety of vegan restaurants in Paris.
And then there are the markets, including the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market, where you’ll find every variety of fresh produce and food you can think of.
And if you haven’t yet tried one of the Bouilon restaurants that have been seeing a revival in Paris, you’re missing out. My favourite is Bouillon Racine in the Latin Quarter.
No. 4 Best arrondissement in Paris for Nightlife
If it’s nightlife you’re after the 11th Arrondissement is the perfect place to stay, as it’s buzzing with bars, clubs and live music venues. Here are a few places you’ll want to put on your list for a fun night out:
- Rue Oberkampf: One of Paris’s most lively nightlife streets, packed with bars and clubs attracting a younger crowd.
- Bastille Area: You’ll find plenty of bustling bars and clubs around Place de la Bastille, and it’s particularly popular among locals and tourists looking for a night out.
- Le Marais: Although technically spanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, the southern part of Le Marais that bleeds into the 11th is famous for its LGBTQ+ friendly bars and clubs.
- Live Music Venues: The 11th is home to several renowned live music venues, such as La Flèche d’Or and Le Bataclan, offering everything from indie bands to international acts.
Where to stay in the 11th arrondissement
| Hotel | Features | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Grand Hôtel Amelot | Located near Marais district and Place des Vosges, 24-hour reception. | Short walk to Marais, a fun area with great nightlife. |
| Mercure Paris Bastille Marais | 7.9 rating, eco-friendly, close to nightlife and historical sites. | Near Voltaire Metro, easy access to Bastille and Marais. |
| Classics Hotel Bastille | 7.8 rating, offers a private garden, close to bars and restaurants. | Near Philippe Auguste Metro, convenient for exploring. |
No 5 Best arrondissement for shopping in Paris
If you’re a shopaholic looking to shop till you drop, the 8th arrondissement is the one for you, particularly along the famous Champs-Élysées and the surrounding streets.
This prestigious district is home to a mix of high-end boutiques, international flagship stores, and luxury brand outlets, so you’ll be in good hands.
Key Shopping Highlights in the 8th Arrondissement:
- Avenue des Champs-Élysées: It’s one of the most beautiful avenues in the world, and lined with shops ranging from high street to luxury brands. Notable stores include the flagship Louis Vuitton store, Sephora, and the Disney Store.
- Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré: This street is synonymous with luxury and fashion, hosting flagship stores of prestigious brands such as Hermès, Lanvin, and Gucci.
- Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Department Stores: Located just outside the 8th arrondissement, near Opéra Garnier, you’ll find everything you could possibly want. And at Christmas, the tree going up through the centre of the store inside is amazing.
- Elysées 26: A shopping centre located on the Champs-Élysées, perfect if it’s raining, and it has a selection of fashion, accessories, and gourmet food shops.
Where to stay in the 8th arrondissement
| Hotel | Features | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Garden Champs-Élysées | Spacious rooms and apartments, and private parking. | Near the Arc de Triomphe and major shopping avenues. |
| Best Western Premier The Blake Paris | Modern amenities, and stylish rooms, located near the Champs-Élysées. | Easy access to luxury shops and Paris landmarks. |
| Grand Powers Hotel | 5-star boutique hotel, with elegant rooms with Parisian chic, spa and wellness centre. | In the Golden Triangle, close to high-end boutiques. |
No 6 Cheapest arrondissement to stay in Paris
The 19th Arrondissement is good for budget-conscious travellers as it’s affordable without being too far from Paris’s main attractions.
Situated a bit further out, you’ll find some lovely green spaces, cultural diversity, and a more relaxed pace of life, making it a great option for those looking to experience a different side of Paris.
Home to the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont and the Parc de la Villette, the 19th offers some of the city’s most beautiful parks, perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, or simply enjoying nature.
It’s also where you’ll find Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, one of Europe’s largest science museums, and the Philharmonie de Paris with its fabulous concert halls. I’ve been to Grande Salle Pierre Boulez, and it has superb acoustics and seating about 2,400.
Where to stay in the 19th Arrondissement
| Hotel | Features | Location |
|---|---|---|
| ibis Budget Paris La Villette 19ème | Free WiFi, close to Canal de l’Ourcq and Parc de la Villette, ideal for city walks and culture. | Near public transport, easy access to city exploration. |
| Campanile Paris 19 – La Villette | Modern rooms, free Wi-Fi, restaurant, 24-hour reception, near Cité des Sciences and Zénith de Paris. | Close to Corentin Cariou Metro station. |
| B&B HOTEL Paris Porte des Lilas | Comfortable rooms, air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, private parking, pet-friendly. | Near Porte des Lilas Metro station, direct to central Paris. |
No 7 Safest arrondissement to stay in Paris
Assessing the “safest” arrondissement in Paris can be subjective and depends on various factors, including crime rates. However, the 1st arrondissement is often considered one of the safest areas in Paris, mainly due to its proximity to several major tourist attractions, benefitting from a higher police presence.
The streets are well-lit at night, and there are always people milling around. But just like you would in any city, you should be vigilant about personal belongings and aware of your surroundings.
Other central arrondissements like the 4th, 5th, and 6th also have good reputations for safety, especially in well-trafficked areas.
FAQS: The Best Neighbourhoods To Stay In Paris
Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?
The best arrondissement to stay in Paris depends on your preferences. The 1st arrondissement is ideal for those who want to be close to major attractions like the Louvre and the Tuileries Garden. For a more quintessentially Parisian experience, the 4th arrondissement offers historic charm with landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Marais district.
Which is the best arrondissement to walk around in Paris?
The 4th arrondissement is considered one of the best to walk around in Paris, offering a mix of beautiful architecture, historic sites, and vibrant streets. The Marais district, in particular, is known for its lively atmosphere, boutique shops, and cafes.
What is the most fancy arrondissement in Paris?
The 8th arrondissement is known as the most fancy in Paris, home to the Champs-Élysées, luxury shops, and haute couture boutiques. It also hosts landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde, making it a hub of luxury and elegance.
Where not to stay in Paris as a tourist?
Tourists are often advised to be cautious about staying in the outer arrondissements beyond the 20th, especially in areas that are less served by public transportation or have a reputation for being less safe at night. I recommend researching and choosing hotels within central arrondissements or those with good connectivity and reviews.
Final Thoughts: Which Arrondissement to Stay in Paris
Whatever arrondissement you stay in, you’ll find you’re never far from a Metro station, and it’s so easy to get around Paris this way.
Although you’ll also want to walk, trust me, there’ll be points where your feet won’t want to walk any further.
And as for hotels, there are just so many it would take you a lifetime to stay in them all, from the luxury five-star hotels to the ones with a view across Paris from Montmatre there is something for every budget.
TRAVELLING TO FRANCE?
Here are my favourite resources I use each time I travel!
🧳 I always protected my trips with this travel insurance company when I lived in the US AND this one now I live in Europe
🚘 I found a car rental for $500 less than traditional sites with this car rental agency
🚌 🍷 My favourite platform to find Day Trips and Wine Tours in France at the best price and with great reviews
🚂 The cheapest train tickets are always on this App
🏨 I got a 20% discount on a chateau hotel with this hotel booking tool
I personally use these sites myself and if you use them, they will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps reduce the ever-increasing cost of maintaining my blog and writing about France. Thank you!