Paris, ‘the city of lights,’ is one of every tourist’s dream destinations. Also known as the city of love, the French capital has been attracting visitors worldwide.
When you think about Paris, you might imagine the Eiffel Tower, dazzling nightlife, and busy streets. But there’s more to this romantic city than that. From its magnificent historical monuments to its distinctive culture, art, and cuisine, Paris is a destination like none other.
If you’re planning to visit Paris for the first time, you might feel a little bit lost about where to stay in Paris. The city has many amazing areas, each with different characteristics. In this post I collected the best arrondissements to stay in Paris that are perfect for both first timers and seasoned Parisian tourists as well.
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Table of Contents
Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Paris
As a tourist, you need to look into the Paris city layout first. The city is situated at the north-bending arc of the Seine river and is a part of northern-central France, otherwise known as Ile-de-France. It is a relatively flat city spread widely on both banks of the river.
Paris is divided into 20 administrative units that are called arrondissements. The 1st arrondissement is right at the centre of the city. From there, the other arrondissements spiral out in a clockwise fashion till the 20th arrondissement in the north-east. The Seine River cuts through the middle and divides Paris into right and left banks, also named Rive Droite and Rive Gauche, respectively.
The best arrondissement to stay in Paris completely depends on what you want to do as a tourist and how much time you have in hand. If you’re visiting Paris for the first time, you will probably like to stay near the Seine River (1st to 7th arrondissement), where the major tourist attractions are located.
On the other hand, if you are a regular/frequent tourist to this land of romance, you could look for a more off-the-beaten-path experience. In this case, the 8th to 18th arrondissements can be the best areas to stay in Paris for you.
Here’s a quick overview of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris with hotel recommendations for each area. In case you prefer staying in apartments rather than hotels, check out my post about the best apartments in Paris with Eiffel Tower view!
| AREA | BEST FOR | RECOMMENDED HOTEL | MORE HOTELS |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st Arrondissement (Louvre) | Sightseeing, Museums, Shopping | Hôtel Crayon Rouge by Elegancia | More hotels in the 1st Arrondissement |
| 3rd and 4th Arrondissement (Le Marais) | Art and History Museums, Sightseeing | Hôtel de Joséphine BONAPARTE | More hotels in the 3rd and 4th Arrondissement |
| 5th Arrondissement (Latin Quarter) | Affordable accommodation, Nightlife | Hôtel des Grands Hommes | More hotels in the 5th Arrondissement |
| 6th Arrondissement (Saint-Germain-des-Prés) | Family friendly, Coffee shops, Restaurants | Grand Hôtel de L'Univers Saint-Germain | More hotels in the 6th Arrondissement |
| 7th Arrondissement (Eiffel Tower) | Sightseeing, Restaurants | Le Pavillon Hotel | More hotels in the 7th Arrondissement |
| 8th Arrondissement (Champs-Élysées) | Traditional restaurants, Shopping | Buddha-Bar Hotel Paris | More hotels in the 8th Arrondissement |
| 14th Arrondissement (Montparnasse) | Affordable accommodation, Shopping | Novotel Suites Paris Expo Porte de Versailles | More hotels in the 14th Arrondissement |
| 18th arrondissement (Montmartre) | Affordable accommodation, Local feel | Hôtel Littéraire Marcel Aymé | More hotels in the 18th Arrondissement |
Best Arrondissements to Stay in Paris
Each traveller has their own specific requirements while choosing the place to stay – budget, facilities, time, and other similar factors. It is best to look through the best locations to stay in Paris and then decide which one you want to opt for.
You’re still not sure where to stay in Paris? Don’t worry, I got you covered! In this article you will find all the best arrondissements to stay in Paris, together with a bunch of useful information about each district, pros and cons, and some hotel recommendations. If you’re a visual type, you can use the below map for getting familiar with each arrondissements mentioned in this article. Let’s dive right in!
1st Arrondissement (Louvre) – Best neighbourhood to stay in Paris for sightseeing
The 1st arrondissement of Paris, located in the centre of the city, is full of tourist attractions, famous landmarks, beautiful parks, and renowned museums. Plus, if you’re looking for the most Instagrammable places in Paris, you will find some of the best photography spots in this district.
The Louvre is situated on the right bank of the River Seine. This area is one of the oldest and one of the smallest neighbourhoods in Paris. The Louvre is the best neighbourhood to stay in Paris for first-time travellers who plan to visit all the popular sightseeing attractions.
The Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens occupies a good portion of the 1st arrondissement. The other popular attractions in this district include the Palais Royal, the Conciergerie, and Place Vendôme. While staying in the 1st arrondissement, you are also within walking distance of attractions like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Centre Pompidou, Champs-Elysèes, and just across the river from Musee D’Orsay and Saint Germain.
Pros and cons of staying in 1st Arrondissement
PROS
- Proximity to major landmarks in Paris
- Multiple metro and bus stations help tourists to travel to other areas
- Shopping options are extensive, from the street shops to exclusive boutiques
CONS
- The area is crowded with tourists
- Stay options are a bit expensive, not suitable for budget travellers
Best places to stay in 1st Arrondissement
LUXURY – Hôtel Regina Louvre
The luxurious Hôtel Regina Louvre is located in the heart of Paris in the fashion, shopping and museum district, overlooking the Louvre. Designed in an elegant style with period furniture, the air-conditioned rooms feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, telephone and safe. Some rooms have views of Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre.
MID-RANGE – Hôtel Crayon Rouge by Elegancia
Hôtel Crayon Rouge is located in the historic centre of Paris, right next to Palais Royal. The elegant-style hotel features a wine bar, a 24-hour front desk and a concierge service. The hotel is 900 metres from Tuileries Garden and a 25-minute walk from Notre-Dame Cathedral.
BUDGET – Hotel Opera Maintenon
With a central location near the magnificent Opéra Garnier, surrounded by shops and restaurants, and featuring charming 17th-century architecture, Hotel Opera Maintenon offers tastefully furnished and peaceful rooms featuring modern comforts. The nearby Metro stops make all of Paris’s sites easily accessible.
3rd and 4th arrondissement (Le Marais) – Best arrondissement to stay in Paris for art lovers and architecture buffs
Le Marais, situated at the River Seine’s right bank, is the favourite hangout for most youngsters in Paris. It houses several boutique shops and gourmet chocolatiers. The nightlife in the 3rd and 4th arrondissement is relaxed and vibrant. Also, the influence of contemporary art can be observed in the buildings in this area. These arrondissements are also called the Jewish neighbourhood of Paris.
One of the oldest squares in Paris, Place des Vosges, is located in the Le Marais neighbourhood. The 4th arrondissement is home to the Notre Dame Cathedral, located on an island in the centre of the Seine River. The area is surrounded by beautiful art galleries and museums like the Museum of the history of Paris, National Archives, Picasso Museum, Museum of Arts and Crafts, and Place de la République, making them both the best arrondissements to stay in Paris. Nicolas Flamel House, the oldest house in Paris, is also located here.
Pros and cons of staying in 3rd and 4th Arrondissement
PROS
- Best location to stay in Paris for people who love to explore the place’s art and history
- The area is close to other attractions like Louvre and St Germain
CONS
- If you are looking for a thoroughly modernized area, this won’t be the best place to stay in Paris for you
- Public transport is not as efficient in this neighbourhood as in the other parts of the city
Best places to stay in 3rd and 4th Arrondissement
LUXURY – Hotel Dupond-Smith
Hôtel Dupond-Smith is located in the Marais area in central Paris. It offers individually decorated rooms with design features. Rooms have a flat-screen TV, air conditioning, a minibar and an iPod docking station. Each room includes a private bathroom with a bath or shower and a hairdryer.
MID-RANGE – Hôtel de Joséphine BONAPARTE
Set in a 17th-century convent, this hotel is located in the heart of the historical Marais district in central Paris. It offers individually-decorated rooms with free Wi-Fi access. The guest rooms at the Hôtel de Joséphine BONAPARTE retain original features, such as exposed wooden beams.
BUDGET – Hôtel De Nice
Located in the historic Marais district in central Paris, this hotel is a 5-minute walk from the Picasso Museum, River Seine and Notre Dame Cathedral. It offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs. The entire Hôtel De Nice has a Parisian décor with old prints, engravings and antique furnishings.
5th Arrondissement (Latin Quarter) – Best location to stay in Paris for budget travellers
The Latin Quarter is one of Paris’s most popular areas, located at the left bank of the River Seine. This neighbourhood is the student hub of Paris with several prestigious high schools and universities. The major tourist sites of this arrondissement are the Pantheon, the National Museum of the Middle-Ages, Jardin des Plantes (botanical gardens), Menagerie (the oldest zoo in France), the Museum of Natural History, the Paris Mosque, and Arenes de Lutece (Roman Coliseum).
The Latin Quarter neighbourhood offers a calmer and more relaxed atmosphere while not being away from the important attractions in the 1st and 7th arrondissements. The famed Shakespeare and Co. bookshop is also located in the 5th arrondissement. This is the best area to stay in Paris for tourists who are on a budget trip but still want to reside centrally.
Pros and cons of staying in 5th Arrondissement
PROS
- Affordable rates for stay and dining
- The area is closer to important landmarks in Paris
- Youngsters will love the vibrant nightlife in the area
CONS
- Mostly crowded by youth
- Not suitable for families who look for calm places
Best places to stay in 5th Arrondissement
LUXURY – Hotel Parc Saint Severin
Set in the Latin Quarter, this 4-star hotel is located just 500 m from Notre Dame Cathedral. A minibar, flat-screen TV and facilities for making hot drinks are included in the non-smoking rooms. Each room has an elegant décor with period furnishings. Some of the rooms feature a private terrace.
MID-RANGE – Hôtel des Grands Hommes
Set in an 18th-century building opposite the Panthéon, this hotel is 400 m from the Luxembourg Garden. Each air-conditioned guest room is equipped with cable TV, free Wi-Fi access and a minibar. All of the soundproofed rooms have an Empire-style décor and some feature a balcony.
BUDGET – Hotel Apolonia Paris Mouffetard
Hotel Apolonia Paris Mouffetard, Sure Hotel Collection by BW is a small and cosy hotel with a home-like atmosphere. The street where the hotel is located has the feel of a small village within the city and it is within easy reach of many famous monuments.
6th arrondissement (Saint-Germain-des-Prés) – Best area to stay in Paris for families
The 6th arrondissement, also known as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is located at the River Seine’s left bank. Major attractions of this neighbourhood are the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés (Luxembourg church) and Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg gardens). The gardens are popular for picnicking with families.
The Saint Germain neighbourhood is known for its excellent café culture. You can visit the oldest cafe in Paris, Le Procope, while you stroll through the streets of this area. The picturesque backstreets like the Place de Furstenberg are incredibly beautiful. Also, the Latin Quarter is an easy reach from the 6th arrondissement.
Pros and cons of staying in 6th Arrondissement
PROS
- Centrally located
- The area is surrounded by several little parks and gardens suiting kids
- This area has several cafes, restaurants, and pubs, and the nightlife is lively
CONS
- Stay options are expensive
- Travel through the metro is not so convenient, a change of lines is required on most trips
- Crowded by tourists
Best places to stay in 6th Arrondissement
LUXURY – Hôtel D’Aubusson
This 17th-century luxurious private mansion offers a jazz bar and an interior courtyard with a fountain. Guest rooms feature original beams, antique furniture and a monumental fireplace made of Burgundy stone. Each room at Hotel D’Aubusson has a marble bathroom, a Nespresso coffee machine and free high-speed WiFi.
MID-RANGE – Grand Hôtel de L’Univers Saint-Germain
This boutique hotel welcomes you in the heart of the historic district of Saint-Germain des Prés, a 15-minute walk from the Louvre Museum. Decorated with Pierre Frey, Manuel Canovas and Rubelli fabrics, the rooms are unique and each boasts its own style. A buffet breakfast is served each morning.
BUDGET – Hotel de Nesle
Hotel de Nesle is an original hotel located in the heart of Saint Germain des Près, just a 10-minute walk from the Louvre. The guest rooms at Hotel de Nesle are accessible by a staircase and feature a colourful décor, and some have a private bathroom with a shower.
7th Arrondissement (Eiffel Tower) – Best area to stay in Paris for first-time travellers
The 7th arrondissement is a walkable neighbourhood situated on Rive Gauche, the River Seine’s left bank. This area is home to the Eiffel Tower, one of the most recognizable monuments in the world. Other significant tourist attractions include Les Invalides and famous museums like Musée d’Orsay, Musée Rodin, and the Musée du Quai Branly. With so many major landmarks within walking distance, the 7th arrondissement is definitely one of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris.
When you walk through the narrow streets of the 7th arrondissement, you will find chic restaurants and boutique stores. You can also book a hotel with view of the Eiffel Tower and have a romantic dinner on a cruise down the Seine. Night walks in this area are even more beautiful with less crowd and the exquisitely illuminated Iron Lady (i.e., the Eiffel Tower).
Pros and cons of staying in 7th Arrondissement
PROS
- Famous landmarks in Paris are within walking distance
- Foodies can peek into the line of restaurants to explore the varieties of cuisines
CONS
- Nightlife is not that active in this area
- It is not the best area for people with a limited budget
- Crowded with visitors and heavy traffic is experienced
Best places to stay in 7th Arrondissement
LUXURY – Le Cinq Codet
Located in the 7th district of Paris, just a 5-minute walk from the Hôtel des Invalides, Le Cinq Codet is a contemporary hotel offering a patio, a spa and wellness centre with a hot tub and hammam, and free bikes. The Eiffel Tower is a 15-minute walk away. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV, a minibar and a coffee machine.
MID-RANGE – Le Pavillon Hotel
Le Pavillon hotel is set in a former convent and is located in the heart of Paris’ 7th district in the Saint-Dominique area. It is just a few minutes’ walk from the Tour Eiffel and Les Invalides Museum. The rooms offer exposed stone and the property has a floral courtyard with a private patio.
BUDGET – Amélie Hotel
With a cosy atmosphere, the 16 colourful and uniquely decorated rooms of this 2-star hotel welcome you all year round, and are ideal for leisure stays in the heart of the city. Surrounded by shopping streets, you will immediately feel immersed in Parisian life.
8th arrondissement (Champs-Élysées) – Best neighbourhood to stay in Paris for shoppers
The 8th arrondissement is a famous area located at the River Seine’s right bank and is Paris’s main business district. Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, and Place de la Concorde are the major attractions in the 8th arrondissement. The Champs-Élysées marks the backbone of the 8th arrondissement, spreading its entire east-west length, from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, marking the meeting point of the 8th, 16th, and 17th arrondissements.
If you are looking for the ultimate shopping experience, then Champs-Élysées is the best area to stay in Paris for you. The famous French fashion brands have their store in this neighbourhood. By staying here, you will be close to Cité, Opéra de Garnier and the Grands Boulevards, the luxury shopping sites.
Pros and cons of staying in 8th Arrondissement
PROS
- You get the best view of the Arc de Triomphe by staying here
- The area is known for its authentic French food, making it one of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris for the foodies
- It is an area suitable for some terrific window shopping
CONS
- Tariffs of hotels are higher than the other areas
- The area is noisy due to the traffic and crowd
Best places to stay in 8th Arrondissement
LUXURY – Le Bristol Paris
Located steps away from Champs Elysées and La Madeleine Place, this Palace Hotel offers a rooftop swimming pool with Eiffel Tower views and an authentic inner French garden. It boasts the award-wining Spa Le Bristol by La Prairie. The spacious and elegant rooms are uniquely decorated and some feature Louis XV or Louis XVI style furniture.
MID-RANGE – Buddha-Bar Hotel Paris
Located in the heart of the chic 8th district, Buddha Bar Hôtel offers a lounge bar with tailor-made cocktails, fitness and well-being centre as well as a 24-hour reception. There is a large terrace and the Champs-Elysées is just an 8-minute walk away. All rooms are air-conditioned and feature a flat-screen TV, minibar and a safety deposit box.
BUDGET – Hotel Elysée Secret
This design hotel in the 8th Arrondissement features air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen satellite TV. Shopping and cafés along the Champs Elysees can be found just 100 m away. Decorated with colorful accents, the guest rooms at Elysée Secret have large beds and a tea and coffee maker.
14th Arrondissement (Montparnasse) – Best arrondissement to stay in Paris for enjoying local life
Montparnasse is located at the Seine river’s left bank. This neighbourhood is famous for its skyscraper, Tour Montparnasse. Other major attractions of the area are the Paris Catacombs museum, Parc Montsouris, and Paris Observatory. There are lines of cafes and restaurants in this neighbourhood, which you can explore while touring the area.
Pros and cons of staying in 14th Arrondissement
PROS
- Hotels are available at affordable rates
- Suitable for people who love shopping, as there are several European chain stores
- Easy access to transportation by metro stations nearby
CONS
- Not a quiet neighbourhood
- Less aesthetically pleasing compared to other areas
Best places to stay in 14th Arrondissement
LUXURY – Niepce Paris, Curio Collection By Hilton
Niepce Paris, Curio Collection By Hilton is 2.2 km from Paris Expo – Porte. Notre Dame Cathedral is also 3.1 km from the property. The air-conditioned rooms and suites have a flat-screen TV, an espresso coffee machine and a minibar. An iPad is at guests’ disposal. They also features a private bathroom with bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer.
MID-RANGE – Novotel Suites Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
ocated in the South of Paris, just 13 km from Orly Airport, Novotel Suites Paris Expo Porte de Versailles is a few metres from Porte de Vanves Metro Station, which leads directly to the city center. It offers a fitness room which is open 24 hours a day and spacious, air-conditioned suites with soundproofing.
BUDGET – Terminus Orléans
Hotel Terminus Orléans is located in the 14th district of Paris with Metro Porte d’Orléans and tram stop at the front of the hotel, giving guests direct access to Paris famous sites. It offers free Wi-Fi. Each room has a simple decor. They are equipped with a safe, double glazing windows, a TV and a private bathroom.
18th arrondissement (Montmartre) – Best location to stay in Paris for honeymooners
Montmartre, located at the right bank of the River Seine, is an area that upholds the charm of old Paris. It is the most popular outer neighbourhoods of Paris. The 18th arrondissement is actually a high hill that houses one of Paris’s most famous landmarks – the white Sacré-Coeur Cathedral.
Moulin Rouge – the number one cabaret show in the universe is another tourist spot in Montmartre. The area is also well-known as many famous painters like Pablo Picasso, Renoir, Edgar Degas had their work studios in this place in the 19th century.
You could literally spend hours exploring the cobbled alleyways of Montmartre. Visit the cemetery, the vineyards, and the stairs of Montmartre from where you can get the best views of Paris. A stay in the hills of the 18th arrondissement will guarantee the best sights and a romantic getaway, making it amongst the best arrondissements to stay in Paris or honeymooners.
Pros and cons of staying in 18th Arrondissement
PROS
- Affordable rates for tourists to stay
- Incredible view of the entire city
- Far from the maddening crowd of the city centre
CONS
- Far from the major landmarks of Paris
- You need the strength for a long walk uphill and to climb several stairs
- Lesser metro stations in this area
Best places to stay in 18th Arrondissement
LUXURY – Maison Souquet
Located in the Montmartre district, Hôtel Maison Souquet is set in an exclusive Parisian townhouse and is decorated in a Belle Époque theme. Guests can have cocktails in the lounge, stroll around the winter garden or enjoy the indoor swimming pool and hammam, which is available upon prior reservation.
MID-RANGE – Hôtel Littéraire Marcel Aymé
Best Western Plus Hôtel Littéraire Marcel Aymé is 350 m from the Moulin Rouge and a 10-minute walk from the Sacré Coeur. It offers rooms with a flat-screen TV and free WiFi access. The decor is inspired by the writer Marcel Aymé. Breakfast can be enjoyed every morning on site.
BUDGET – Simon’s Boutique Hôtel
Simon’s Boutique Hôtel provides accommodation with a bar, private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. Among the facilities at this property are a 24-hour front desk and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. Guest rooms are equipped with air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
Final Thoughts
Paris is quite safe no matter where you stay. It is definitely one of the most beautiful cities in France and one of the top-visited destinations in the country, for a good reason! No matter what sort of vacation you are planning for exploring Europe, you must include Paris for at least a few days in your itinerary.
If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment below or send me an email, I always love helping you out! Do you know some other great neighbourhoods to stay in the city that you would like me to add to the list of best arrondissements to stay in Paris? Let me know in the comments!
xoxo, Kriszti
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