districts tour paris

• Paris Arrondissements

Map & Guide

Paris Arrondissements Map & District Guide

What are Paris arrondissements?    Arrondissements are administrative districts.   Although Paris is a compact city, it contains 20 arrondissements numbered 1 through 20 within its borders. 

Each of the 20 Paris districts has its own unique identity and personality, popular attractions, special events , and other interesting things to do and see.

Our Favorite Paris Neighborhood Tours

• Food & Wine Tasting Walking Tour in Le Marais - Small group tour in the 3rd & 4th arrondissements - highly rated
• Iconic Paris Neighborhoods Guided Walking Tour - Choose from 5 different neighorhoods; discover top attractions and secret places
• Montmartre Cheese, Wine, & Pastry Guided Walking Tour - Highly rated food & sightseeing tour in the 18th arrondissement

Arrondissements with lower numbers form the center of the city and contain most of the top historic attractions and not surprisingly, many tourists. 

As you can see when you look at our Paris arrondissements map below, districts with higher numbers spiral out clockwise from the center (much like the shell of a snail, or escargot).  Most were former villages annexed by Paris in the 1800s, and you'll still find plenty of their original charm.  They are mostly residential and aside from the picturesque Montmartre neighborhood and a few popular attractions such as Atelier des Lumières in the 12th and Père Lachaise Cemetery in the 20th, you usually won't see many tourists.

Whether you're planning your first visit or a return trip to the City of Light, knowing which Paris neighborhoods have the attractions, activities, and events you want to experience will help you make the most of your time, decide where to book a hotel room or reserve an apartment, and discover more nearby to do and see. 

Our Paris Arrondissement Guide below includes an interactive arrondissement map , highlights about top destinations, activities, major events, tours, and hotels in each district, the best arrondissement to stay in based on what you want to see and do, and tips for using the district numbers to help you plan your trip to Paris.

We've packed lots of useful information into this article, but it's long .  If you're looking for details about a specific topic or district, use these Quick Links to find it fast:  Arrondissement Map -  Arrondissements Guide: 1st Arr   -  2nd Arr   -  3rd Arr   -  4th   -  5th   -  6th   -  7th   -  8th   -  9th   -  10th   -  11th   -  12th   -  13th   -  14th   -  15th   -  16th   -  17th   -  18th   -  19th   -  20th   - FAQs

Top photo:  Paris arrondissement map, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

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Paris Arrondissement Map:  Understanding the City's Layout

Our interactive Paris map shows the 20 arrondissements with attractions and landmarks, the city's two great forests, the Seine River, and top attractions plus a few key destinations outside of the city such as Versailles, Disneyland Paris, La Vallée Village discount shopping center, the La Défense business district, and the three closest international airports. 

Zoom in to get a closer view of Paris streets and neighborhoods, or zoom out to see more of France.

The blue line of the Seine River divides the city into the Right Bank (above the river) and the Left Bank below it. 

In the middle of the Seine are two small islands, Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis.  

Île de la Cité, the historic heart of the city includes parts of the 1st and 4th arrondissements.  This is where the area's first settlers, a Celtic tribe called the Parisii , made their home over 2,300 years ago.  It is also where you'll find some of the city's most famous attractions. 

Île Saint-Louis belongs to the 4th district, and is a quiet residential area with 17th century homes, a main street lined with boutiques and bistros, and a few small upscale hotels.

The large green areas at each side of Paris (think of them as the snail's head and tail) represent two enormous tree-filled parks ( bois ), sometimes called the "lungs" of the city.

One final thing you should know is that an almost-constantly congested multi-lane highway, the Périphérique (Parisians normally call it " la Périph "), circles the outer districts (but not the parks) - look closely at the map, and you can see it just inside the city limits.  If you take a taxi or private transport to or from Charles de Gaulle Airport, you'll most likely experience it first-hand - for better or worse.

Paris Arrondissement Guide 

Now, let's take a look at the landmarks and attractions that make each arrondissement special to help you choose where to stay and what to see and do during your visit.

1st Arrondissement:   Louvre Museum, Sainte-Chapelle, Les Halles

Why visit:   Famous attractions, spectacular gardens, and excellent cafés, restaurants, and boutiques pack the 1st arrondissement with must-see "bucket list" sights for first-time as well as returning Paris visitors.

Top Attractions in the 1st Arrondissement

Discover:   The Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa and many other treasured works of art.  Tuileries Gardens, filled with flowers and statues, pools and fountains, cafes, and a giant ferris wheel.  Musée de l'Orangerie , featuring Monet's lush waterlily paintings.  Musée des Arts Decoratifs is a must if you're into design, decorative items, or just like beautiful things.

Find more ways to experience the Louvre

Experience:  Royal Paris in the almost-hidden Palais Royal Garden and shopping arcades, two of the city's biggest and best Christmas Markets during November and December, the soaring stained glass windows and concerts at Sainte-Chapelle, and Marie Antoinette's last days in the Conciergerie, a medieval palace and infamous Reign of Terror prison.

Join a walking tour of Ile de la Cité

Shop:  Famous designer boutiques, market streets, and the most popular French cookware shops in Paris pack the 1st. 

Explore:  Les Halles, once the city's largest food market before being torn down in the name of urban renewal, now attracts enthusiastic crowds with its new shopping, entertainment, and dining plaza.  Don't miss the jazz clubs in nearby Rue des Lombards or the epic market pedestrian-only street, Rue Montorgueil.

Visit:   Île de la Cité, the tiny Island in the Seine River straddling the 1st and 4th arrondissements where you'll find the historic heart of Paris, medieval masterpieces, hidden gardens, and lots more.

Fun 1st Arrondissement Wine & Food Experiences

• French Wine Tasting Class with Sommelier - Savor French wines, Champagne, and fresh bread as you learn about France's wine region, how Champagne is made, and lots more from the popular O Chateau wine bar about a 5-minute walk from the Louvre
• 2-Hour Seine River Lunch Cruise - See the Louvre Museum and other famous sites in the 1st arrondissement and other parts of Paris as you cruise by while relaxing over a wonderful 3-course lunch
• Wine Museum Guided Tour with Wine Tasting - Tour the former wine cellars of the King of France across from the Louvre Museum, learn how wine is made, find about about different French grapes and wine regions, and taste some delicious wines

1st Arrondissement Complete Guide:  Find more things to do & see

Where to Stay in the 1st Arrondissement 

• Top Hotels in the 1st - See our recommendations for best places to stay near the Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, Rue Saint-Honoré and Les Halles shopping districts, and other top 1st District attractions

Best places to stay in the 1st District during winter months

See Top Attractions from a Seine River Cruise

2nd arrondissement - covered arcades, sentier, bourse.

Why visit:   You'll love the 2nd arrondissement's covered 19th century shopping arcades, the best Japanese and Korean restaurants in Paris, and fascinating glimpses of the Paris's thriving wholesale textile and design industries in the Sentier neighborhood. 

Top Attractions in the 2nd Arrondissement

The 2nd Arrondissement sometimes gets overlooked as being a mostly-business district dominated by the Bourse (Palais Brongiart), the former Paris stock exchange now used for special trade shows, and at its east end by the Sentier quartier, home to the Paris textile industry and wholesale-only clothing showrooms.

However, you'll find some hidden treasures tucked away in the 2nd - especially if you enjoy shopping and dining.   And at the lively western end of the district, excellent shopping, hotels, and restaurants near the Paris Opera House and bustling Avenue de l'Opéra attract numerous visitors.

Discover:   Japanese restaurants lining Rue Saint-Anne.  Designer boutiques around Place des Victoires, and more affordable shopping along Avenue de l'Opéra. 

Explore: 19th century Passages Couverts , the glass-roofed covered retail arcades and galeries lined with boutiques and bistros - inspiration for today's indoor shopping malls.  Look for Galerie Vivienne (elegant shops and bistros), Passage du Caire (wholesale textiles and clothing), Passage de Choiseul (Korean specialties), Passage du Grand Cerf (art, crafts, esoteric collections), and Passage des Princes (toys and games).  Treasure hunters will want to explore the stamp, coin, and antique dealers in Passage des Panoramas not far from the Drouot Auction House in the 9th.  Explore on your own - or join a secret passages tour.

In and around Sentier, hip restaurants started popping up a few years ago, and now chic hotels are following, making this an increasingly trendy neighborhood for visitors - plus Sentier is next door to the even trendier Marais.

2nd Arrondissement Complete Guide:  Find more things to do & see

Where to Stay in the 2nd District

• Hotel Edouard VII - 4-star hotel in a superb location on Avenue de l'Opéra, less than a 5-minute walk from the Paris Opera House.  Find current rates
• Hotel Bachaumont - Lovely 4-star hotel with an Art Deco vibe on a quiet side street between the pedestrian-only Rue Montorgueil market street and a stretch of Rue Montmartre lined with luxury boutiques.  Compare rates
• The Hoxton - Elegant and contemporary, located in a gorgeous 18th century building in the bustling Sentier district.   Find lowest rates

Find more hotels in the 2nd arrondissement

Want to Get Around Paris the Fun & Easy Way?

Hop On/Hop Off double-decker buses give you an easy way to explore Paris arrondissement and see the city's top attractions.  Your ticket gives you access to 3 different tour routes  past all the famous landmarks, sights, and shopping areas.   Hop off as often as you wish to explore on foot, and then hop back on to see more attractions as you enjoy the panoramic views from the top deck.   For a few additional Euros, you can get a 2 or 3 day ticket - a fun and economical way to get around the city as you sightsee.

3rd Arrondissement ( Temple ) - Picasso Museum, Upper Marais, Musée Carnavalet

Why visit:   Known as the Haut ("Upper") Marais, the 3rd Arrondissement gives you a glimpse of medieval Paris plus plenty of ornate 17th century mansions, popular museums, and fashion boutiques.

Top Attractions in the 3rd District

You'll find a number of outstanding museums here including the famous Picasso Museum housed in a 17th century mansion, Musée des Arts et Métiers with its displays ranging from airplanes to perfume, and Musée Carnavalet.  

- Find all the best ways to visit the Picasso Museum

- Discover:   Jewish culture in France in the Museum of Jewish Art and History.

- Dine on tasty couscous or kebabs at an outdoor table next to the food stalls at Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris where residences have shopped for 400 years. 

- Stroll along narrow cobblestone streets and explore the indie designer boutiques.

Recommended Self-Guided Paris Walk:  Rue Payenne Gardens

Where to stay in the 3rd arrondissement

4th Arrondissement - Notre Dame, Pompidou Center, Île Saint-Louis, Place des Vosges, Hôtel de Ville

Why visit:   The 4th Arrondissement is "must see" area for first time and return visitors. So many famous historic sites and top attractions are located here - plus the medieval Marais neighborhood offers some of the best shopping in Paris. 

Top Attractions in the 4th Arrondissement

The 4th includes Île Saint-Louis, half of Île de la Cité, and a swath of the Right Bank, including part of the Marais, and is packed with top attractions, historic neighborhoods, chic shopping, and superb restaurants.

Discover:   The magnificent Cathedral of Notre Dame on Île de la Cité.  Bertillon ice cream, considered the best in Paris, in Île Saint-Louis.   

Explore the trendy boutiques and galleries in the Marais, and visit antique stores and artisans in historic Village Saint-Paul.  

Admire modern and recent art on a private tour at Centre Pompidou, go for carryout falafel in Rue de Rosiers in the Marais home of the oldest Orthodox Jewish community in Paris, and picnic in picture-perfect Place des Vosges.

Fun Ways to See the Marais

• Le Marais District & Jewish Quarter Guided Walking Tour - On this small group tour with maximum 8 people, you'll see important attractions and beautiful parks, and explore the historic Jewish Quarter and its wonderful kosher restaurants and boutiques.  Find out more 
• Marais Walking Food Tour: Cheese, Wine, & Delicacies - You'll stroll around this charming neighborhood and see its many art galleries, boutiques, cafes, and centuries-old architecture as you stop at 8-10 places to sample cheese, wine, pastries, and seasonal specialties.  This tour lasts 3+ hours.  Find out more
• Marais Pastry & Chocolate Tour - You'll explore small streets and hidden nooks of the Marais while learning about the neighborhood, visiting chocolate shops and bakeries, and tasting some samples.   Find out more

Best places to stay in the Marais

Where to stay in the Marais during winter months

Best Paris Arrondissements for Your Visit

Which district should you choose when choosing where to make hotel reservations or book an apartment for your Paris visit?  Here's a quick guide:

Are you a . . .

• First-time (or return) visitor who wants to see top Paris attractions?  Focus on these arrondissements:  1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, part of 16 (Trocadéro) and part of 18 (Montmartre) 
• Return visitor who wants to explore the "real" Paris off the tourist path and discover hidden treasures?   Explore these arrondissements:    2, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 (beyond Trocadéro), 17, 18 (beyond Montmartre), 19, and 20

5th Arrondissement - Latin Quarter, Cluny Museum, Arènes de Lutèce, Panthéon

Why visit:   Layers of history, the famous Latin Quarter and other top attractions, charming street markets, and winding cobblestone lanes make the 5th Arrondissement another "must-see" part of the city for first-time and returning visitors.

Top Attractions in the 5th Arrondissement

Discover:   The famous Pantheon, towering majestically over much of the district  

The Roman-era Arènes de Lutèce and Roman baths under Musée Cluny, home to magnificent tapestries and other medieval treasures. 

The Jardin des Plants, where you'll find an ancient botanic garden, Natural History Museum, and the small but appealing Paris Zoo.

Don't miss the Rue Mouffetard street market, Shakespeare and Company Bookstore, and Tunisian pastries and tiny glasses of mint tea at the Arab Institute's terrace restaurant overlooking the most scenic parts of Paris.

Find best hotels & apartments in the Latin Quarter

6th Arrondissement - Luxembourg Garden, Saint Germain des Prés, & Saint-Sulpice Church

Why visit:   The lovely 6th arrondissement, famous for its formerly bohemian Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood and a slice of the chill Latin Quarter, is a lovely upper-class mostly-residential district with commercial areas devoted to superb boutiques, art galleries, and dining.

Top Attractions in the 6th Arrondissement

Discover:   Beautiful Luxembourg Garden.   Cafés and bistros along Boulevard Saint-Germain made famous by French Existentialists and American writers during the last century.

Visit: The magnificent Church of Saint-Sulpice, setting for The Da Vinci Code, and Paris's oldest church, Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Explore: The district's wonderful antique shops, home furnishing boutiques, and clothing stores.  

Buy:  Holiday gifts at the large Christmas market by Saint-Germain Church from mid-November through December

Recommended 6th Arrondissement Tours

• Saint-Germain Pastry & Chocolate Walking Tour - You'll sample pastries, chocolates, and breads on this walking tour through this posh Paris neighborhood
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés Private Tour - From famous cafes and churches to fantastic chocolate and pastry shops, your guide will customize this private tour to suit your interests

Where to Stay in the 6th Arrondissement

• Hotel Clémont - This charming 2-star boutique hotel with 28 guestrooms has air conditioning and an elevator, and serves a fantastic breakfast; great value near the Saint Germain Market and Saint Sulpice Church
• Hotel de Buci - This charming 24-room boutique hotel on the Rue Buci market street features furnishings with a romantic Louis XV 18th century très-Parisian vibe
• Hotel Madison - Lovely 4-star boutique hotel with 50 rooms and suites across from Saint Germain des Prés church in a fantastic location near two metro stations
• Hôtel Montalembert - Excellent 5-star boutique hotel in Saint Germain de Prés near museums, the Bon Marché luxury department store and food hall, and numerous small boutiques and antique shops Find best rates
• Hotel de Seine (52 Rue de Seine) - This centrally-located small 3-star boutique hotel features 30 guestrooms, air conditioning, and an elevator in an excellent location near the Seine River - Book Now

Find more hotels & apartments in the 6th arrondissement

Where to stay in Saint-Germain-des-Pres during winter months

7th Arrondissement - Eiffel Tower, Orsay Museum, Bon Marché, Champ de Mars 

Why visit:   The 7th arrondissement is where you'll find the world's most famous landmark - the Eiffel Tower - as well as several top museums, the only department store on the Left Bank, a popular market street, and many top-notch restaurants.

Top Attractions in the 7th District

Discover:   Sweeping Paris views from the top of the Eiffel Tower.  

Find out how to get skip-the-line-priority entrance to the Eiffel Tower

See Impressionist masterpieces at Musée d'Orsay, non-western art at the Branly Museum, and magnificent sculptures and a romantic garden at Musée Rodin. 

Find skip-the-line tickets & guided tours to the Orsay Museum

Shop for luxury goods and gourmet food and wine selections at Le Bon Marché.  

History buffs will want to explore Les Invalides , where you'll find the Musée de l'Armée and Napoleon's tomb in Dome Church (get a priority entrance ticket that covers both).   After your visit, walk a few blocks to reach the popular Rue Cler market street, overflowing with small cafes and yummy bakeries where you enjoy a wonderful lunch or dinner.  Or buy a few gourmet goodies and head over to nearby Champ de Mars for a picnic.

Where to Stay in the 7th Arrondissement

Find best hotels near the Eiffel Tower

Best hotels in Paris's 7th arrondissement

8th Arrondissement - Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Golden Triangle, Parc Monceau

Why visit:   With the Arc de Triomphe and Champs Élysées as major tourist attractions, the 8th arrondissement ranks high on the "must visit" list for most first time visitors.  But there's so much to see and do here that you'll want to return whenever you're in Paris.

Top Attractions in the 8th Arrondissement

Discover:   Expansive views from the top of the Arc, the beautiful but blood-soaked Place de la Concorde, and an eternal flame marking the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the base.   Excellent art collections, exquisite architecture, and a little-known tea room overlooking a lovely garden at the Petit Palais .  Special exhibits at the enormous glass-roofed Grand Palais.  Luxury goods on display in designer showrooms along the Golden Triangle.  

Need a change of pace in this wealthy, tourist-filled arrondissement? 

Head over to tranquil Parc Monceau , and visit one of the nearby specialty museums - Musée Cernuschi , Musée Nissim de Camondo , or Musée Jacquemart-André.

Fun Things to Do in the 8th Arrondissement

• View Paris from the top of the Arc de Triomphe - You'll experience panoramic views of the entire city and all its iconic sites.  That's where we took the photo of Sacre Coeur at the top of this page.  Tickets are cheap - but admission lines can be long, so do yourself a favor and get a skip-the-line ticket online before you go.

Find out more about visiting the Arc de Triomphe

Best places to stay in the 8th arrondissement

Fun Ways to See & Do near the Arc de Triomphe

9th arrondissement - opera garnier, pigalle, grand department stores.

Why visit:   For most tourists, the top reason to visit the 9th arrondissement is shopping at the Grands Magasins (big luxury department stores) - Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps - in this lively district filled with gorgeous19th century Haussmannian architecture.  

Top Attractions in the 9th Arrondissement

More to discover:  

• The spectacular Opéra Garnier (Paris Opera) - the largest and possibly the most flamboyant opera house in Europe, and a must-visit destination for Phantom of the Opera fans.

    Explore the Paris Opera House, a Baroque masterpiece

• Musée Grévin, the wax museum, located in Passage Jouffroy, one of the many historic covered arcades in the 9th. 

    Get your Grevin Museum tickets online and skip the (usually) long ticket queue at the entrance

If you enjoy exploring newly hip neighborhoods, head to trendy South Pigalle, known as SoPi where you can visit the Musée de la Vie Romantic (but do know that SoPi's northern edge bordering the 18th can still feel a bit sketchy due to the remaining sex shows in this former red-light district, although in reality it's quite safe). 

Stop by the famous Drouot auction house, and explore the surrounding streets where you'll find many dealers specializing in stamps, coins, antiques, and other collectibles.

9th Arrondissement Complete Guide:  Find more things to do & see

Where to stay in the 9th arrondissement

Best places to stay in the 9th during winter months

10th Arrondissement - Canal Saint-Martin, Place de la République, Gare du Nord, Gare de l'Est

Why visit:   The diverse 10th arrondissement contains two major Paris train stations, Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Ést, surrounded by numerous popular bistros and cafes, and a variety of neighborhoods - some more gentrified (which means more hotels, etc) than others. 

What to Discover:   Scenic bridges and locks along Canal Saint-Martin - Take a cruise, or simply stroll around the neighborhood and enjoy the colorful street art, lively cafes, and boutiques - in particular, look for up-and-coming young designers and pop-up stores.  

Place de la République (shared with 11th) - another trendy spot filled with bars and bistros, nightlife, and towering over the square, a magnificent statue of Marianne, Goddess of Liberty and symbol of the French Republic.

Where to stay in the 10th arrondissement

11th Arrondissement - Place de la Bastille, Nightlife

Why visit:   The 11th arrondissement is a pleasant mostly residential area, formerly working class but now trendy and increasingly gentrified, with no major landmarks aside from Place de la Bastille and the enormous Opéra Bastille where you can catch a Paris Opera concert or ballet. 

If you are looking for a lively nightlife scene, check out the bars and clubs in the Oberkampf neighborhood.  If you need any camera equipment or accessories while you are in Paris, you may want to visit one of the specialized camera stores along Boulevard Beaumarchais, near the Chemin Vert Metro Station.

For a unique immersive digitized art and music experience in a former iron foundry, visit Atelier des Lumières.

Discover:    Lots of ethnic and French cafes around and near Place de la Bastille.  Vintage furniture and clothing stores around Rue de Marché Popincourt and Rue Nueve Popincourt. 

The Bastille Arts and Crafts Market held from 9am - about 6pm every Saturday along Boulevard Richard Lenoir, starting just beyond the Bastille Métro Station. 

If you are adventurous, explore the almost-hidden passages and interior courtyards along the north side of Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine, once occupied by 19th century furniture makers and artisans, and now art galleries, craft studios, and boutiques.

12th Arrondissement - Proménade Plantée, Marché d'Aligre Market, Bercy Village

Why visit:   Although the 12th arrondissement is primarily residential, it has several attractions worth exploring if you're on a return visit to Paris and want to interesting sites beyond the major tourist attractions.  On the 12th's eastern side is the largest public park in Paris, Bois de Vincennes, complete with a chateau, English-style gardens, and a zoo.

Discover:   Interesting city views and exquisite gardens along the elevated parkland of the Proménade Plantée.  Thrilling ballet performances at the glittering Bastille Opera.  Treasures (and junk) at the Marché d'Aligre, the city's most popular flea market.  Spend an afternoon browsing in the boutiques and sipping wine at an outdoor cafe in Bercy Village, converted from 19th century wine warehouses next to the Seine.

Find best places to stay in the 12th arrondissement

Paris Arrondissement Numbers:  4 Ways You Can Use Them

• Avoid getting lost:  Most street signs display the arrondissement number - an easy way to confirm roughly where you are. 
• Find your destination's location:  Not sure where you're going?  Look up the address, which almost always include a 5-digit postal code . The code's last two digits are the arrondissement number, which tells you where your destination is located.   For example, if you look up the address for the Picasso Museum, you'll see the street address plus the postal code: 75004.  That means the museum is in Paris's 4th district.   (Paris addresses always have " 75 " as the first two digits.)
• Plan your trip:   Do you have a bucket list of attractions and places you want to visit?   Look up their addresses, note the district numbers, and plan your itinerary based on locations to minimize your travel time between attractions.
• Choose where to book accommodations :  Once you identify the arrondissement where most of your bucket list attractions are located, choose a hotel or apartment in the same district for ultimate convenience.

13th Arrondissement - Gobelins Tapestry, Place d'Italie, Street Art, Butte aux Cailles

Why visit:   Fans of street art will find plenty to enjoy in the 13th arrondissement, where an innovative mayor and many modern concrete high-rise buildings provide a welcoming canvas space for street art professionals and amateurs.  Otherwise, this is another mostly residential neighborhood - no major tourist attractions, but plenty of interesting local spots to explore.

Discover:   How tapestries are made at Gobelins Manufactory, creators of museum-worthy pieces since the mid-1400s.  A large enclosed shopping mall - a rarity in Paris - in Place d'Italie.  Charming leafy streets in the hilly Butte aux Cailles neighborhood.  And of course, look for street art - some discrete, some mammoth - wherever you go in the 13th.

How to Explore: 

Street Art in the 13th District Walking Tour - You'll see a lot of exciting street art including some by internationally famous graffiti artists in this fascinating tour of the 13th arrondissement- Find out more & book your ticket

Off the Beaten Track in Paris - Travel in style in a vintage Citroen 2CV convertible to see Butte aux Cailles in the 13th as well as a number of other hidden but wonderful places around the city:  the beautiful Place des Vosges park in the Marais, the Roman arena Arènes de Lutèce, the site of the Bastille Prison, arty Village Saint Paul, and seven other special places you might not find on your own - Find out more & book your ticket

14th Arrondissement - The Catacombs, Montparnasse Cemetery, Fondation Cartier

Why visit:  The 14th arrondissement offers an interesting mix of commercial and residential areas, with plenty of cultural and historical attractions worth seeing, including the always-popular Paris Catacombs.

Discover:   A maze of underground tunnels where the remains of about 6 million people are buried in the Catacombs.  The tombs of famous artists, writers, and performers in Montparnasse Cemetery.  Contemporary art exhibits at Fondation Cartier, in a striking building designed by architect Jean Nouvel.  Lots of theaters, restaurants , and several famous bistros in the area around the triangle formed by the Montparnasse-Bienvenue, Edgar Quinet, and Vavin Métro Stations. 

Find out why & how to get skip the line priority tickets for the Catacombs

See all the Skip the Line and Priority Access ticket choices for the Catacombs

Must-visit destination for history buffs:  Musée de la Liberation, a museum that examines the history of the French Resistance and the Liberation of Paris from the Nazis during World War II by focusing on heroic actions of individuals. 

Next to the 14th, on the other side of the Périphérique:   Vanves Flea Market

15th Arrondissement - Parc André Citroen, Montparnasse Tower, Beaugrenelle Mall

Why visit:   The 15th arrondissement is a large, mostly residential middle-to-upper income district with lovely parks, a spectacular shopping mall, and easy access to Île-des-Cygnes (Island of the Swans), an almost-hidden park in the middle of the Seine. Visit the 15th to get a feel for how real Parisians live and play.

Discover:   Hot air balloon rides at Parc André Citroen.  Spectacular views of Paris from on top of Montparnasse Tower.   The weekend antiquarian and used book market at Parc Georges Brassens.   A collection of top clothing and specialty stores in the upscale Beaugrenelle shopping mall.  

For the perfect afternoon, head to the Mirabeau Bridge and walk down the ramp to Île-des-Cygnes, a lovely sliver of an island in the Seine with excellent views of the Eiffel Tower.

Find out where to stay in the 15th district

16th Arrondissement - Trocadéro, Palais de Tokyo, Musée Marmottan, Bois de Boulogne, Paris Aquarium

Why visit:   Although much of the 16th arrondissement is a wealthy residential area (a favorite of well-off American ex-pats), numerous superb museums, excellent Eiffel Tower views, and the huge Bois de Boulogne park give you plenty of reasons to visit. 

Discover:   Unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower from the marble-paved platform at Trocadéro.  A large collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings by Claude Monet at Musée Marmottan.  The French Open, Fondation Louis Vuitton, a chateau and lake, a zoo, and greenhouses containing 100,000 plants in the Bois de Boulogne park. 

You could easily spend days exploring treasures in the 16th's many specialty museums - anthropology at Musée de l'Homme, avant-garde contemporary art at Palais de Tokyo, Asian art at Musée Guimet, fashion at Musée Galliera, 20th century masterpieces at Musée d'Art Moderne, and the world of counterfeiting at Musée de la Contrefaçon, to name just a few.  And if you're visiting Paris with kids, the Paris Aquarium will be a big hit.

Find recommended hotels in Paris's 16th arrondissement

17th Arrondissement - Batignolles Square, Martin Luther King Park

Why visit:   The 17th Arrondissement's economic diversity makes it hard to categorize, and because it lacks any major tourist attractions aside from the Arc de Triomphe (which it shares with the 8th and 16th), you might easily skip over it on your first, second, or even third trip to Paris. 

But if you want to explore the "real" Paris, head to the leafy Batignolles neighborhood in the eastern part of the 17th, where you'll find a mix of 19th century charm and 21st century modernization.

Discover:   Gourmet treats from all over France and freshly harvested organic produce in the Batignolles outdoor markets.  

Charming sidewalk cafes lead up to Batignolles Square, a neighborhood park filled with landscaped hills and dells, a duck pond, and pétanque courts. 

On the other side is Parc Clichy-Batignolles, a gorgeous new recreational arena once occupied by freight yards, where you'll find a skate park, basketball courts, and a playgound surrounded by natural landscaping, scenic walks, and sustainable energy displays including wind turbines and solar panels.

Explore the Artsy & Bohemian Side of Batignolles in this 3-Hour Walking Tour

Find the best places to stay in the 17th arrondissement

18th Arrondissement - Montmartre, Sacré Coeur, Moulin Rouge, Les Puces Flea Market

Why visit:   Famous attractions, village-like neighborhoods once populated by artists and writers, and fantastic views of Paris attract large numbers of visitors to the 18th Arrondissement.  You'll also find plenty of appealing cafes and boutiques.

Top Montmartre Attractions

Discover:   The sloping hills, vineyard, and stories about famous artists and musicians who once lived in Montmartre.  The charming village of Abbesses.  

Enjoy: Spectacular views from Sacre Coeur.  

Treat yourself to:  Unforgettable shows and dinner at Moulin Rouge.  

Find out about a VIP evening at Moulin Rouge:  Champagne, dinner, and tickets to the hottest show in town

Explore:   Five floors of dazzling textiles and trims at the Saint-Pierre Fabric Market .

Spend a day at:  The biggest flea market in Paris (and the world), Marché aux Puces (Flea Market) in Saint-Ouen located just north of the Peripherique at Clingancourt.

Find top Montmartre hotels & apartments in Montmartre

Recommended Montmartre Tours

19th arrondissement - parc de la villette, buttes chaumont park, paris plages.

Why visit:   Cultural, recreational, and scenic attractions fill the 19th Arrondissement's two huge parks - plus the district boasts the city's largest artificial lake, the site of summer festivals, sports, and even a "beach."

Discover:   Cité de la Science et l’Industrie science museum, Cité de la Musique music instruments museum, and Philharmonie de Paris concert hall at Parc de la Villette.  

Enjoy:  Bassin de la Villette's beach and row boats during Paris Plages.   Flower-covered slopes, a waterfall, and some of the best views of Paris in Parc des Buttes-Chaumont.

Find out about the 17 best locations to see spectacular Paris skyline views

20th Arrondissement - Père Lachaise Cemetery, Belleville, Street Art

Why visit:   The 20th's biggest attraction is Cimetière du Père-Lachaise - the famous Père Lachaise Cemetery - where rows of ornate tombs and monuments of famous writers, musicians, artists, philosophers, and politicians perch on the landscaped hills.  The 20th District also includes a swath of the sprawling and dynamic Belleville neighborhood, which spans parts of the 19th, 10th, and 11th districts as well.

Discover:   The final resting spots of Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Frédéric Chopin, Edith Piaf, Rossini, and many other luminaries at Père-Lachaise, along with some of the city's most fascinating and poignant tombstones.  For a special experience, take a guided tour (or choose a small-group or private option).

Where to find the most famous 101 graves at Père-Lachaise

Enjoy:  Sweeping views of Paris from a hilltop covered terrace adorned with graphic art in Parc de Belleville , and at the back, a small historic vineyard; down the side of the hill is a 300-foot long tiered waterfall-fountain, plus expanses of award-winning flower gardens.

Explore:  The interesting street art, indie boutiques, art galleries, green space, and the city's second largest Chinatown (complete with wonderful, affordable restaurants) in Belleville.  And on the other side of the Périphérique from the 20th:  Montreuil Flea Market

Find out where to stay in Paris's 20th arrondissement

Paris Hotel Map - Where to Stay in Your Favorite Paris District

Want to find a convenient Paris hotel or apartment close to your bucket list attractions? 

Find out where to stay on your first trip to Paris:  best neighborhoods

Use this map to find available accommodations & best rates for your travel dates, and make your reservations:

Check out the newest Paris hotels

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) about Paris Arrondissements, Names, Quarters, & Neighborhoods

Paris districts:  do they have names.

Yes.  Each arrondissement has a historic name in addition to a number.  But there's no need to learn them because they are not normally used in daily conversation, directions, or much of anything else.

You'll almost always hear Parisians refer to districts by only the number .  For example, "She works in the 7th."

Confused?  Don't worry about it.  By the time you've spent a few days in Paris, all of this will make more sense.

The practice of compartmentalizing Paris into administrative districts and numbering them sequentially dates back to 1795 when the city was divided into 12 arrondissements.  In 1860, Emperor Napoleon III more than doubled the size of the city by annexing 11 surrounding towns and expanding the number of arrondissements to the present 20. 

The recent formation of "Paris Centre" by administratively combining the first four districts doesn't really change much.  The major practical difference is that now the Paris Centre arrondissements will share one mayor and one city hall. 

Is a Quartier (Quarter) the Same as a Neighborhood in Paris?  

It depends - but not usually.

Each of Paris's 20 arrondissements contains four distinct quartiers (administrative sub-districts) and each quartier has a historic name.

Although many quartier names such as Croulebarbe and Gaillon are no longer used in everyday conversation, others such as Les Halles (1st arrondissement), Sentier (2nd), Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th) - do double duty as neighborhood names , although neighborhood boundaries usually don't align with quartiers boundaries.

Additionally, some neighborhood names such Latin Quarter and Marais   are what Parisians have traditionally called the area, and have no relationship at all to the names of quartiers.

For example, the Latin Quarter is an area in the 5th, 6th, and even a bit of the 13th districts where students from all other Europe gathered during the Middle Ages while studying at the Sorbonne University.  They spoke Latin as their common language, and that's how this Paris neighborhood got its name. 

Similarly, the super-chic Marais neighborhood spanning large swaths of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements used to be swamp land, and so Parisians called it Le Marais ("the swamp").  

Bottom line:  Paris neighborhood names and locations within or across arrondissements are useful to know.   Quartier names, not so much.

What Arrondissement Has the Most Tourist Attractions? 

Probably the 1st arrondissement (although not everyone may define "tourist" attraction the same way).

In this old and historic Paris area, you'll find the Louvre Museum (former Palais du Louvre, home to Paris kings and queens, and now the world's most-visited museum.

More to the point, Paris 1 is where you can see da Vinci's Mona Lisa), Sainte Chapelle with its stunning gorgeous medieval stained glass walls and wonderful classical concerts, La Conciergerie, a medieval palace and Reign of Terror prison, Musée de l'Orangerie, home to Monet's water lily paintings, the Forum des Halles shopping center (and nearby kitchenware stores), designer boutiques along Rue Saint Honoré, Tuileries Garden, and the Palais Royal Garden, just to name a few of the top attractions. 

And last but certainly not least, the 1st is where you'll find the super-popular Tuileries Christmas Market and Hotel de Ville Christmas Market.

What Does "1re" Mean?  What about "1ère"? 

This is how Parisians (and everyone else in France) abbreviates "1st Arrondissement" ( "la premier" in French) - and yes, there's a very short ("1re" or "2e" etc) and a slightly longer ("1ère" or "2ème") way (which you'll less frequently see written as "1ière" or "2ième") to do this and both are used interchangeably.   Although the longer version is technically incorrect, that doesn't stop people from using it - so you should expect to see both.

However ... older street signs may show the arrondissement number as a Roman numeral  - so brush up on those as needed.

Here's a cheatsheet with arrondissement numbers in English, French (along with Roman numerals), short and longer French abbreviations, and historical names in case you do happen to hear them:

Arrondissement

• First (1st)
• Second (2nd)
• Third (3rd)
• Fourth (4th)
• Fifth (5th)
• Sixth (6th)
• Seventh (7th)
• Eighth (8th)
• Ninth (9th)
• Tenth (10th)
• Eleventh (11th)
• Twelfth (12th)
• Thirteenth (13th)
• Fourteenth (14th)
• Fifteenth (15th)
• Sixteenth (16th)
• Seventeenth (17th)
• Eighteenth (18th)
• Nineteenth (19th)
• Twentieth (20th)
• Première (I)
• Deuxième (II)
• Troisième (III)
• Quartrième (IV)
• Cinquième (V)
• Sixième (VI)
• Septième (VII)
• Huitième (VIII)
• Neuvième (IX)
• Dixième (X)
• Onzième (XI)
• Douzième (XII)
• Treizième (XIII)
• Quatorzième (XIV)
• Quinzième (XV)
• Seizième (XVI)
• Dix-septième (XVII)
• Dix-huitième (XVIII)
• Dix-neuvième (XIX)
• Vingtième (XX)

Abbreviations

•  2e (2ème)
• 10e (10ème)
• 11e (11ème)
• 12e (12ème)
• 13e (13ème)
• 14e (14ème)
• 15e (15ème)
• 16e (16ème)
• 17e (17ème)
• 18e (18ème)
• 19e (19ème)
• 20e (20ème)
• Hôtel de Ville
• Palais-Bourbon
• Observatoire
• Batignolles-Monceau
• Butte-Montmartre
• Buttes-Chaumont
• Ménilmontant

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Home > Neighborhoods - Districts of Paris > A Local’s Guide to the Districts of Paris -Arrondissements of Paris [2024]

A Local’s Guide to the Districts of Paris -Arrondissements of Paris [2024]

Paris arrondissements guide.

This quick guide to Paris Arrondissements covers all that you need to know about the Arrondissements of Paris (Paris Districts).

Planning your first trip to Paris can be challenging: whether you’re wondering about the best Arrondissement to stay in Paris or the best things to do in specific districts in Paris, we will guide you through what to do and where to eat and sleep in the 20 Arrondissements of Paris.

The exploration of the different areas of Paris is an important part of our Paris blog , that’s why in addition to this guide, you will find more detailed articles for each Paris Arrondissement . Without further delay, here’s your go-to Paris Arrondissements Guide, complete with a Paris Arrondissement Map and our best tips.

Here’s an overview of the 20 Arrondissements of Paris :

• Paris 1 – Louvre
• Paris 2 – Bourse
• Paris 3 – Temple
• Paris 4 – Hôtel de Ville
• Paris 5 – The Latin Quarter
• Paris 6 – Saint-Germain-des-Prés
• Paris 7 – The Eiffel Tower District
• Paris 8 – Elysée
• Paris 9 – Opéra
• Paris 10 – Canal Saint-Martin
• Paris 11 – République
• Paris 12 – Reuilly
• Paris 13 – Butte-aux-Cailles
• Paris 14 – Montparnasse
• Paris 15 – Vaugirard – Grenelle
• Paris 16 – Chaillot -Auteuil – Passy
• Paris 17 – Batignoles – Monceau
• Paris 18 – Montmartre
• Paris 19 – Buttes-Chaumont
• Paris 20 – Belleville

Paris Arrondissements vs. Paris Districts vs. Paris Neighborhoods

Paris arrondissements explained.

What is an Arrondissement? The Arrondissements of Paris are pure administrative divisions. Paris is divided into 20 Arrondissements (or Paris districts). In each Arrondissement of Paris, there is a town hall (Mairie) and a mayor (Maire), as well as elected officials, a council, a politician, and so on.

Of course, the 20 Districts of Paris are still subject to the overall policy of the City and the Mayor of Paris, the socialist Anne Hidalgo .

So Paris Districts and Paris Arrondissements are the same things; they are synonyms in Paris. Other synonyms of Paris Arrondissements could be “sections of Paris” or “areas in Paris,” but they are not used by locals.

The Arrondissements in Paris are not to be confused with the Neighborhoods in Paris (Quartiers) . Paris Neighborhoods like Belleville, Saint-Germain-des-Près, and many more, are historic divisions, while the Arrondissements of Paris exist only since the 18th century. One Paris Arrondissement usually includes many Paris Neighborhoods within its boundaries, with 80 Neighborhoods in Paris in total. If you are looking for a Paris Neighborhoods guide , then head to this post about the Neighborhoods of Paris .

To find your bearings in Paris, there is a little trick: if you look at the Arrondissements of Paris Map here below, the 1st Arrondissement of Paris is in the center of the city, then the other Paris Arrondissements are located forming a spiral, turning clockwise, to finish in the 20th Arrondissement in the east.

If you don’t have a Paris Arrondissements map on hand, another way to easily figure out what district you’re in is to look for the street signs that are affixed to the sides of buildings on pretty much every corner of the city. In addition to telling you what street you’re on, the plaques also show the Arrondissement.

Our Favorite Walking Tours by Paris Arrondissement

In 2020, four districts of paris united under a new name: paris centre.

In 2020 the central four Arrondissements of Paris became only one. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo’s plan is motivated by her desire to make the Arrondissements more equal in terms of the size of the population they serve. For example, while the 1st Arrondissement is home to just 17,000 residents, Paris 15 can count 240,000.

Since 13 July 2020 , the new name of the four arrondissements which make up the center of the city is Paris Centre . This name was voted by the residents of these four Arrondissements. Residents also voted on which town hall should represent the newly united Paris Arrondissement, and the selected town hall was the 3rd Arrondissement’s town hall.

Even if the first four Arrondissements are grouped together for administrative reasons, the city’s postcodes will not change. In other words, Paris and this Paris Arrondissement Guide will continue to have 20 Arrondissements.

Paris Arrondissement Guide 2024

More than simple divisions, the 20 Districts in Paris have their own character and charm. They all tell locals and visitors different stories about Paris.

In this Paris Arrondissements Guide, we’ll try to give a good breakdown of all the Paris Districts and tell about their essence. You will find the Paris Arrondissements explained, with some historical notes, and the main Paris attractions by arrondissement.

If you want to learn more about a specific Arrondissement, check our Paris by Arrondissement posts .

NOTE: the Arrondissements of Paris (or Districts of Paris) do not have names. Only the Neighborhoods of Paris have names. For example, Paris 18 consists of four neighborhoods named Quartier des Carrières, Quartier de Clignancourt, Quartier de la Goutte d’Or, and Quartier de la Chapelle.

In this guide to Paris Arrondissements, sometimes we give names to the arrondissements mostly as “hints” so you can easily find your bearings in the city. The name of Paris 7, for example, is not Eiffel Tower District. It’s just Paris 7 or the 7th Arrondissement of Paris, but we named it the “Eiffel Tower District” so you can know that this is the district where the Eiffel Tower is located. Sounds complicated? ; -)

PARIS 1 (Louvre)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 🙂 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙁.

The 1st Arrondissement of Paris is one of the must-see areas in Paris, home to some of the most famous buildings and landmarks in the French capital. This is the district of (half) Ile de la Cité and the Kings of France, with the Royal Palace , the  Tuileries Gardens , the Louvre , and the Seine River , best enjoyed from the water on a Seine River cruise .  

The First Arrondissement is also the district of Les Halles. This Paris Neighborhood, historically known as “the belly of Paris,” is less upmarket than the areas around the Louvre, but it has a good choice of accommodations and restaurants for all kinds of travelers.

Come to Paris 1 for its monuments and elegant squares and to enjoy the banks of the Seine River.

MAIN SIGHTS: Louvre Palace , Place Vendôme, Pont Neuf , Saint-Germain-l’Auxerrois Church, Sainte Chapelle , Royal Palace, and the Conciergerie .

BEST MUSEUMS: Louvre Museum , Orangerie Museum, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Jeu de Paume.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Tuileries Gardens , Royal Palace Gardens, Square du Vert Galant (on Ile de la Cité).

WHERE TO SLEEP: Best hotels near the Louvre Museum

WE RECOMMEND:

• How to visit the Louvre in 2 hours
• Paris Illuminations River Cruise
• Save time and money with this combo Sainte Chapelle + Conciergerie
• The Tuileries Garden Quest (scavenger hunt, self-guided)

PARIS 2 (Bourse)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙂.

The 2nd Arrondissement of Paris is the smallest district of Paris, a quiet and largely overlooked business district organized around the Old Stock Market . It also houses many textile businesses, so it’s the perfect district for those who want to shop for fabrics.

There are not many tourist sites in Paris 2, but it has beautiful architecture and elegant covered passages , and it is home to several hidden gems ready to reward the determined traveler. Foodies in Paris will be very happy to walk along Rue Montorgueil , one of the best food streets in Paris.

Come to Paris 2 for its shopping, restaurants, bars, and cinemas.

MAIN SIGHTS: Tour Jean-Sans-Peur , Place des Victoires, Covered Passages of Paris , Reaumur Street, Rue Montorgueil.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 2

WE RECOMMEND: 

• Covered Passages of Paris Walking Tour

PARIS 3 (Temple)

Half of the famous  Le Marais  (which is neither an Arrondissement nor a District) is located in the  3rd Arrondissement of Paris .

Paris 3 is both a historical and trendy district, a maze of narrow streets where historic private mansions rub shoulders with hipster coffee shops. Visitors will find lots of high-end art galleries close to Beaubourg (which is in Paris 4), while some of the most beautiful private mansions host interesting museums today.

The third Arrondissement is also home to the  first Chinese community in the city,  so it is a good opportunity to find cheap and authentic (Asian) food on their streets.

Come to Paris 3 for its beautiful cafés and wine bars, vintage shops, private mansions, and art galleries.

BEST MUSEUMS: Picasso Museum, Carnavalet Museum , Musée des Arts et Métiers, Musée des Archives Nationales.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Anne Frank Garden, Square Georges Caïn, Archives Nationales Gardens.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Best hotels in Le Marais

• The Marais District Walking Tour
• Visit the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest market in Paris!

PARIS 4 (Hôtel de Ville)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 🙂 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙂 🙂.

The 4th Arrondissement of Paris  is where you can find the other half of Le Marais, covering the territory south of rue Francs-Bourgeois and rue Rambuteau. It is also the district of Ile Saint Louis and the other half of Ile de la Cité .

Paris 4 is an ensemble of narrow streets lined with historic private mansions and pretty gardens. It is also home to some of the city’s top sites, like the Centre Pompidou , Hôtel de Ville, and Notre Dame . For this reason and because of its central location, Paris 4 is often considered one of the best Districts in Paris to stay for visitors.

The Fourth Arrondissement, and more precisely the streets around Hôtel de Ville, is also the gay District of Paris , and you will see many rainbow flags in this area. If you are looking for gay bars and events in Paris, the 4th Arrondissement Paris is the place to go.

Come to Paris 4 for its history, shopping, pleasant walks, and to enjoy the Seine’s Right Bank.

MAIN SIGHTS: Place des Vosges, Notre Dame de Paris (from outside), Hôtel de Ville.

BEST MUSEUMS: Centre Georges Pompidou (Beaubourg), Victor Hugo’s house.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 4

• A picnic in Place des Vosges
• Ile de la Cité Walking Tour
• Explore the Pletzl, the Jewish quarter in Paris

PARIS 5 (The Latin Quarter)

Prices: € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙂 🙂.

The 5th Arrondissement of Paris  is where the Romans settled for the first time, founding the Roman city of Lutetia .

Much more than the touristy streets of the Latin Quarter , Paris 5 spreads south from Notre Dame, up past the Panthéon , and down the Jardin des Plantes towards the 13th and 14th Arrondissements. Its ancient streets contain a few remnants of the Roman Lutetia, medieval religious buildings, the historic core of the Sorbonne University , charming squares, and an array of living culture in the form of art house cinemas and curious bookstores.

Come to Paris 5 for its historical monuments and lively student atmosphere.

MAIN SIGHTS: the Panthéon, Arènes de Lutèce , Collège des Bernardins, the Sorbonne, Grande Mosquée de Paris.

BEST MUSEUMS: Grande Galerie de l’Évolution, Musée du Moyen Age (Cluny Museum), Musée Marie Curie.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Jardin des Plantes, Cluny Museum’s Medieval Garden.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Best hotels in the Latin Quarter

• Latin Quarter Walking Tour
• Paradis Latin Show, local’s favorite Cabaret in Paris

PARIS 6 (Saint -Germain-des-Prés)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙂 .

When most people think of Paris , visions of the narrow streets and cafés of the Left Bank come to mind, and more precisely, those of the 6th Arrondissement. Indeed, the 6th Arrondissement of Paris is mainly known for its famous Quartier Saint-Germain-des-Prés , a meeting place for students, artists, and intellectuals at various times.

Still, visitors come to Paris 6 looking for this long-since-disappeared cool atmosphere, and they are ready to pay ridiculous prices in places like Café de Flore  or  Café Les Deux Magots.

Paris 6 is also home to Luxembourg Gardens, Saint Sulpice Church, beautiful architecture, and expensive art galleries, which, unfortunately, replaced all those little bookshops and printers that once populated the quartier to provide the universities nearby.

The 6th District of Paris is also a great place for foodies in Paris , with beautiful gourmet shops and chocolate & pastry shops. Some of the most popular food tours in Paris explore and taste the latest trends in sweets in the pastry shops of Saint-Germain-des-Près.

Come to Paris 6 for luxury boutiques and art galleries and to follow Ernest Hemingway’s steps.

MAIN SIGHTS: Saint-Germain-des-Près Church, Saint Sulpice Church, Médicis Fountain.

BEST MUSEUMS: Eugène Delacroix Museum, Zadkine Museum .

PARKS AND GARDENS: Luxembourg Gardens

WHERE TO SLEEP: Best hotels in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

• Hemingway’s Paris Self-Guided Walking Tour
• Pastry and Chocolate Tour of Saint Germain-des-Près
• Treasure Hunt at Luxembourg Gardens

PARIS 7 (Eiffel Tower)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 🙂 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙁 .

The 7th Arrondissement of Paris is the bourgeois district of the Eiffel Tower , and the Invalides , as well as big avenues and beautiful private mansions, transformed today into embassies and government buildings.

We must admit that we are not fans of Paris 7, but we like Rue Cler – one of the most famous market streets in Paris –, and the streets around Rue de Bac (Quartier Sèvres-Babylone), full of fashion shops and other beautiful stores.

Come to Paris 7 to see the Eiffel Tower , and other interesting museums like the Rodin Museum , the Orsay Museum, or the Quai Branly Museum.

MAIN SIGHTS: the Eiffel Tower , Les Invalides, and  the tomb of Napoleon I .

BEST MUSEUMS: Musée de l’Armée, Rodin Museum, Orsay Museum, Quai Branly Museum, the Paris Sewer Museum .

PARKS AND GARDENS: Champ de Mars, Rodin Museum Gardens

WHERE TO SLEEP: Best Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views

WE RECOMMEND

• Things to do near the Eiffel Tower

PARIS 8 (Elysée)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙁.

The 8th Arrondissement of Paris is the district of fashion and luxury symbolized by the famous “ Golden Triangle ” formed by Rue Montaigne – Rue George V – Avenue des Champs-Élysées .

This is also the district of the Elysée Palace , the French President’s official residence, the  Arc de Triomphe , beautiful 5-star historic hotels , and two of the best Cabarets in Paris . For all these reasons and more, Paris 8 is expensive, very expensive!

That said, Paris 8 has some of the best romantic places in all of Paris, from gorgeous museums to intriguing historic sites, from jaw-dropping viewpoints to enchanting secret spots; you just need to know where to look.

Come to Paris 8 for luxury shopping and for beautiful views from the top of the Arc de Triomphe.

MAIN SIGHTS: Arc de Triomphe, Madeleine Church, the Chapelle Expiatoire , Champs Elysées, Pont Alexandre III, the Luxor Obelisk (the oldest monument in Paris).

BEST MUSEUMS: Grand Palais, Petit Palais, Jacquemart-André Museum, Cernuschi Museum.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Parc Monceau, Gardens of the Champs Elysées.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 8

• A night at Crazy Horse Cabaret Show
• Climb to the top of Arc de Triomphe for one of the best views

PARIS 9 (Opéra)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 | paris like a local:  🙂 🙂.

With the 9th Arrondissement, Paris wanted to build a “New Athens” in the early 19th-century Romantic era. At that time, Paris 9 was the heart of intellectual life in the capital , hosting the likes of Georges Sand and Chopin.

Over the 20th century, parts of Paris 9 fell into seedy decline with the proliferation of brothels and then escort girl bars. The 21st century, however, is giving the area a hip makeover over and it is now one of the city’s coolest districts of Paris.

With the Opéra Garnier and the Grands Magasins , the 9th Arrondissement has long been a classic destination for visitors, but there are plenty of hidden gems nestled amongst the well-known monuments and imposing Haussmannian architecture that we invite you to discover.

From the Pigalle neighborhood to the  Opéra Garnier , explore a lively district with its old cafés, offices, and Grands Magasins, where you can still find true neighborhood life. Paris 9’s position, close to the Grands Boulevards and Montmartre, could be your best location to stay in the city to visit Paris’ main sights and to enjoy a little bit of nightlife.

Come to Paris 9 for its local life and some great historical and contemporary sites.

MAIN SIGHTS: Opéra Garnier , Galeries Lafayette, Haussmannian Architecture, Follies Bergère.

BEST MUSEUMS: Fragonard Perfume Museum , Musée  Grévin (wax museum), Musée de la Vie Romantique.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 9

• A self-guided visit to Opéra de Garnier

PARIS 10 (Canal Saint-Martin)

Prices: € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 | paris like a local:  🙂 🙂.

Paris 10 is one of the coolest Arrondissements Paris has to offer in the north, eternally linked to Canal Saint-Martin waterway and its iron footbridges.

The 10th Arrondissement is also the district of two big train stations: Gare du Nord  and  Gare de l’Est , with an always busy and popular (sometimes sketchy) atmosphere around.

The 21st century has given new life to this popular Arrondissement of Paris, and today Paris 10 is a district of bobos (bohemian-bourgeois Parisians), with agreeable cafés, vintage shops, cool bars, and excellent restaurants.

Come to Paris 10 for a stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin, vintage shopping, and evening aperós (or picnics) along the Canal’s banks. Some bars at Rue de Faubourg Saint-Denis are also worth a detour.

MAIN SIGHTS: Canal Saint-Martin

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 10

• Walk along the banks of Canal Saint-Martin
• Canal Saint-Martin boat tour

PARIS 11 (République)

Prices: € € | paris points of interest: 🙁 | paris like a local:  🙂 🙂.

Located in the east of Paris, the 11th Arrondissement lies between the squares Nation , Bastille , and République and occupies part of what was once the Faubourg Saint Antoine and the Faubourg du Temple. This is one of the Paris areas without tourist sites, but it has kept its local charm.

Under the shadow of the formidable Bastille Prison, the district flourished during the reign of King Louis XIV. Feeding Versailles’ hunger for refined furnishings, the Sun King made it a tax-free zone for furniture-makers and other craftsmen.

This working-class district later became a revolutionary hotbed, especially during the June 1832 Rebellion (also known as the Paris Uprising of 1832), which was Victor Hugo’s inspiration for his legendary book Les Misérables .

During the 19th century, with industrialization, the 11th Arrondissement saw the construction of many factories, especially in the fields of textiles, metals, glass, and ceramics. Some of these factories still exist, converted into trendy hotels, shops, or 21st-century museums like the Atelier des Lumières .

Today, Paris 11 retains its working-class roots, and its revolutionary spirit is now manifested in the form of inventive restaurants, hip cafés, and creative shops. It is also known for its night activity and festive character, with very cool places to party for people under 25:  Lautrec, Mansart, Sans Souci, Chez Moune, and le Carmen for those looking for the long run …

BEST MUSEUMS: Atelier des Lumières, Edith Piaf Museum.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 11

PARIS 12 (Reuilly)

The 12th Arrondissement Paris is one of the main residential areas of Paris. Also, it has the honor of being the greenest district of Paris, home to the Parc Floral, Bois de Vincennes , and  Parc de Bercy .

Paris 12 may not be one of the must-see districts of this Districts of Paris guide, but it is home to one of Paris’ best markets, the city’s best promenade, quirky historic sites, and other lovely delights. A stroll along La Coulée Verte or a glass of wine at Bercy Village is always a good excuse to visit Paris 12.

MAIN SIGHTS: Le Marché d’Aligre, Bercy Village.

BEST MUSEUMS: Cinémathèque Française, Cité Nationale de l’Histoire de l’immigration, Musée des Arts Forains .

PARKS AND GARDENS: Parc Floral, the Coulée Verte , Parc de Bercy, Bois de Vincennes, Picpus Cemetery .

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 12

• Colorful Marché d’Aligre – 2-hour Market Tour

PARIS 13 (Butte-aux-Cailles)

Prices: €  | paris points of interest: 🙂 | paris like a local:  🙂 🙂  🙂.

As you can see on the Paris Arrondissements map, the 13th Arrondissement of Paris occupies the far southeast of Paris, on the Seine Left Bank.

A kind of no man’s land with a very popular character and a strong Chinese population, this district of Paris has some cool things to see and do, like the arty Butte-Aux-Cailles neighborhood,  some quintessential Paris bistros , or its incredible Street Art.

Formerly dotted with little villages and convents, Paris 13 was bisected by the Bièvre River , Paris’ second river. Due to pollution from the tanneries and factories that bordered its banks, the Bièvre River was gradually filled over during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The construction of the French National Library in the 1980s helped put the district back on the map, and the area around the building was revamped with avant-garde architecture, trendy bars along the Seine’s bank, and incredible street art.

The Mural Program in Paris 13 invited the world’s most renowned street artists to give some color to this district of Paris. If you are a curious visitor, we urge you to give it a chance!

MAIN SIGHTS: The Mural Program, La Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood, French National Library, bank of the Seine River (and its bars).

BEST MUSEUMS: Manufacture des Gobelins.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 13

• Street Art of Paris 13 Walking Tour

PARIS 14 (Montparnasse)

Although the 14th Arrondissement isn’t on everyone’s list of best Arrondissements in Paris, this mostly residential area in the south of the city has some lovely attributes, especially for locals or frequent travelers.

Paris 14 is the district of Parc Montsouris , one of the most beautiful parks in Paris , and some of the most interesting sights in our Paris Underground Guide , like the Catacombs of Paris or the Carrières des Capucins .

In Paris 14, we like the Cité Universitaire de Paris , with its architecture from the four corners of the world and its student atmosphere, but there are also legendary cafés, quirky theaters, hidden gardens, and some gorgeous cobbled streets. Finally, don’t miss the Cimitière de Montparnasse , a more local alternative to the Père Lachaise Cemetery.

MAIN SIGHTS: Cimitière du Montparnasse, Catacombs of Paris, Cité Universitaire, Carrières des Capucins, Musée de la Libération de Paris, Montparnasse neighborhood, Giacometti Museum.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Parc Montsouris.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 14

• Catacombs of Paris Guided Tour with access to special parts closed to the general public

PARIS 15 (Vaugirard – Grenelle)

If you are looking for a residential arrondissement, Paris 15 is the place to go. Located in the southwest of Paris, the 15th Arrondissement is the largest in the city and also the most populated.

Definitely a family district, very quiet, and with no big-name sites or a special charm, Paris 15 is for us too far from everything.

MAIN SIGHTS: Musée Bourdelle, Tour Montparnasse .

PARKS AND GARDENS: Parc André Citroën, Square Georges Brassens, Ile aux Cygnes.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 15

• Walk on the rails following La Petite Ceinture in Paris 15
• Fly over the city with the Ballon de Paris

PARIS 16 (Chaillot – Auteuil – Passy)

Prices: € € € | paris points of interest: 🙁 | paris like a local:  🙂 🙂.

Built predominantly during the second half of the 19th century, the 16th Arrondissement is the “posh” district of this Paris Arrondissement Guide, with beautiful Art Nouveau Architecture and a few interesting, lesser-known museums.

In Paris 16, you are never far from the Bois de Boulogne , perfect for running, a picnic, or just a lazy day on the grass. Le Chalet des Iles is a magical place for a romantic soirée.

This upscale residential district is also home to some of the palace hotels and 5-star hotels in Paris , like the Peninsula Hotel or  Hotel Raphael , and their elaborated rooftop bars are a cool place to enjoy fantastic views of Paris with your favorite cocktail in hand.

No matter which street you wander down, you’ll inevitably discover beautiful buildings, squares, and gardens. Come to Paris 16 to see the beautiful  Art Nouveau Architecture and its interesting museums.

MAIN SIGHTS: Palais de Tokyo, Palais Galliera (Musée de la Mode), Musée de l’Homme, Musée Guimet, Fondation Louis Vuitton, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée Yves Saint Laurent, Musée Marmottan-Monet, Musée du Vin, Stade Roland Garros.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Bois de Boulogne, Park Jardin de Ranelagh, Serres d’Auteil, Parc de Bagatelle.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 16

PARIS 17 (Batignolles-Monceau)

Paris 17 is one of the Paris areas mostly residential. Located in the northwest of the city, this area was mostly occupied by royal hunting grounds until the French Revolution.

In the 19th century, the area evolved into three new neighborhoods of Paris: the merchant Quartier de Ternes , the bourgeois Quartier Monceau , and the arty Quartier de Batignolles . The latest, Batignolles, still retains its charming village atmosphere.

Come to Paris 17 if you’re looking for exquisitely authentic Haussmannian Paris.

MAIN SIGHTS: the (lost in time) Cité des Fleurs.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Jardin de Batignolles, Promenade Pereire.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 17

• a stroll around Batignolles neighborhood
• luthiers of Rue de Rome

PARIS 18 (Montmartre)

Prices: € € | paris points of interest: 🙂 🙂 | paris like a local:  🙂 🙂.

This is the most paradoxical of the 20 arrondissements of Paris. It is home to the old village of Montmartre , one of the quintessential (and most visited) areas in Paris, but there are also popular zones long forgotten by everybody.

Yes, Montmartre , with its winding cobbled streets, is here, but there’s also Little India, Africa, and the infamous  Goutte d’Or neighborhood.

In this Guide to Paris Arrondissements, we consider that there are no Paris Districts to avoid, but we prefer not to recommend neighborhoods like La Chapelle or La Goutte d’Or, both located in Paris 18. If you want to stay in the 18th District of Paris for its bohemian, oh-so-Parisian atmosphere, be sure your hotel or apartment is located north of Blanche, Pigalle, or Anvers metro stations, and you won’t be wrong.

Come to Paris 18 to see  Bohemian Montmartre , the Sacré Coeur , the Paris of Movies (Amélie, Midnight in Paris), and the Moulin Rouge .

MAIN SIGHTS: Montmartre, Sacré Coeur, Montmartre Cemetery, Moulin Rouge, Saint Jean-de-Montmartre Church.

BEST MUSEUMS: Montmartre Museum, Dali Museum.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Best boutique hotels in Montmartre .

• Stories of Old Montmartre Walking Tour + Map
• The Paris of Movies, 2.5-hour Walking Tour & Wine
• Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show with Champagne

PARIS 19 (Buttes-Chaumont)

Prices: € | paris points of interest: 🙂 | paris like a local: 🙂 🙂  🙂.

The 19th Arrondissement of Paris is where World in Paris has its headquarters, so we can only tell good things about this Paris Arrondissement! The 19th District of Paris is a popular district perfect for those looking to escape the crowds and experience unique, offbeat Paris.

Paris 19, a former industrial area developed along Canal de l’Ourcq , is today home to the trendy area of Canal de l’Ourcq – Parc de la Villette, the lovely Parc Buttes-Chaumont , as well as a number of other secret charms.

MAIN SIGHTS: La Villette, Canal de l’Ourcq, Mouzaïa neighborhood, Saint-Serge de Radonège Church, the headquarters of the Communist Party.

BEST MUSEUMS: Cité de la Science et l’Industrie, Cité de la Musique, Le Centquatre.

PARCS AND GARDENS: Parc Buttes-Chaumont, Parc de la Villette, Parc de la Butte du Chapeau-Rouge.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals in Paris 19

• Explore ‘the countryside in Paris’ around Rue Mouzaïa and Butte Bergeyre
• Sail Canal de l’Ourcq on an electric self-drive boat
• Paris Plages at the Bassin de la Villette (summer activity)

PARIS 20 (Belleville)

Located in the northeast corner of the city, Paris 20 was a few years ago the cheapest district in Paris to live in; that’s why so many young Parisian couples moved to the 20th Arrondissement of Paris. Today, Paris 20 is one of the trendiest and most authentic districts of Paris, and all this without tourists!

Best known for being home to  Père Lachaise Cemetery , there is no shortage of things to do in Paris 20, with Asian markets, art-filled streets, trendy low-key bars, and the most charming village-like pockets, harking back to when it was outside the limits of Paris. Last but not least, the Parc de Belleville offers some of the best views of Paris.

Come to Paris 20 if you want to enjoy Paris like a local.

MAIN SIGHTS: Père Lachaise Cemetery, local life in the neighborhoods of Belleville and Charonne, La Campagne à Paris.

PARKS AND GARDENS: Parc de Belleville.

WHERE TO SLEEP: Find last-minute hotel deals n Paris 20

• Père Lachaise Cemetery Walking Tour
• A soirée at La Bellevilloise (hosts concerts, exhibits, club nights and has a bar-restaurant).

Arrondissements of Paris F.A.Q.

Now that you know how Paris is divided and you got all the Paris Districts explained, have a look at the most asked questions by our readers planning a trip to Paris:

What is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?

It depends on what you are looking for. Do you want to be close to everything and have a high budget? Then choose Paris 1 or Paris 2. Looking for some cool local life, far from the crowds? Paris 20 might suit you very well. Looking for a party? Stay in Paris 11 . . .

What is the best area to stay in Paris for sightseeing?

The best area to stay in Paris for sightseeing, in our opinion, is Paris 1 and Paris 4.

What is the best place to stay in Paris close to everything?

The best place to stay in Paris close to everything is, without any doubt, the central Paris Arrondissements: Paris 1, Paris 4, Paris 5, and Paris 6.

Are there no-go zones in Paris?

In general, there are no Arrondissements in Paris to avoid, but we have our little list of places that might be best avoided, like the Eiffel Tower on a Saturday afternoon in summer, Chatelet Metro Station (we always get lost there!), or the Paris Metro at rush hour 😉

What if we are looking for non-touristy things to do in Paris?

You are in the right place! Check our posts by arrondissement, where we tell you where to sleep, eat, and play like a local in Paris.

We hope that you enjoyed this Paris Arrondissements Guide and that it will be helpful to plan your next trip to Paris.

Click here to explore Paris by Arrondissement

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About WORLD IN PARIS

Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

A pocket guide to Paris' arrondissements & districts

Recently updated on July 28th, 2023 at 01:54 pm

From impressive historic monuments to cuisine that is nothing short of exceptional, there’s no denying that Paris is a destination unlike any other. A city where you can spend your days wandering in and out of museums, cafes, farmers markets and beautiful gardens; it’s little surprise that the French capital has earned itself the reputation as the city of Romance.

As impressive and beguiling as it may be, planning a trip to the city of lights can very quickly become overwhelming. With 20 neighbourhoods (arrondissements) to choose from, finding the best place to stay in Paris can be terrifying. However, having an understanding of the Parisian Arrondissement system will help you in knowing where to go in Paris, as well as where the best places to stay are. 

Whether you’re wondering what the best Paris arrondissement is to stay in, or where the best areas are to explore in Paris, our guide below will help you in deciding the best districts for you to eat, sleep, drink and go out in.

What is an Arrondissement?

Put simply, arrondissements are administrative districts. Unlike many other cities, the arrondissements in Paris are laid out in a regular order. The first arrondissement leads into the second, which leads into the third, and so on. The easiest way to visualise this, is to imagine a snail, unfurling in a clockwise direction. 

This division of the districts dates back to the French Revolution, where in 1795, authorities organised Paris into 12 arrondissements. Then, due to the growth of the city that was once made up of small towns, Paris created 8 new arrondissements in 1860; thus creating the Paris snail (or escargot).

Each of the 20 Parisian arrondissements has its own unique identity and personality, popular attractions, special events and other interesting things to explore.

In this guide, we’ve tried to share a good breakdown of all of the Paris districts, including information on landmarks and attractions that make each arrondissement special. Hopefully this will help you in deciding which is the best Paris arrondissement for you and your upcoming visit!

1st Arrondissement

The premier arrondissement; if it’s your first time visiting the French capital, you’ll want to include Paris 1 in your itinerary, as it’s the home to many of the city’s famous monuments and sights. 

Home to the Tuileries Gardens, Pont des Art, Place de Vendôme, the Louvre and the Seine River, there’s no denying that this is one of the most sumptuous Arrondissements in Paris. However, it is also one of the most expensive arrondissements to stay in.

A visit to the 1st Arrondissement is perfect for experiencing famous Parisian monuments, elegant squares and enjoying the bank of the River Seine.

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2nd Arrondissement

The 2nd Arrondissement of Paris, known as ‘Bourse’ (which translates to ‘stock exchange’) is the smallest district of Paris. As the name suggests, it is home to the city’s stock exchange, as well as a number of banks and financial institutions. This district is largely overlooked by tourists, however, is well worth exploring for its beautiful architecture, covered passages and hidden gems for the determined traveller.

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3rd Arrondissement

If you’ve come to Paris to revel in history, you’ll feel right at home in Temple, or the 3rd Arrondissement. The second-smallest district in the city, Temple is home to some of the best museums in Paris, including the Carnavalet Museum , Musée Picasso and the Musée des Arts.

Additionally, the 3rd Arrondissement is also home to half of the famous Le Marais (an area that is neither an Arrondissement or a district). 

You can explore the intriguing and equally beautiful Marais district on a walking tour on the Trafalgar ‘ Paris Explorer ’ tour, where you’ll see firsthand the mansions and courtyards of this delightful corner of Paris.

RELATED CONTENT: Where to find (and eat) the absolute best croissants in Paris

4th Arrondissement

The 4th Arrondissement of Paris is where you can find the other half of Le Marais. The 4th Arrondissement is the more lively part of Le Marais; an area that is lined with bars, clubs and restaurants. 

Also in the 4th Arrondissement is the city’s oldest public planned Square (Place des Vosges) and the former medieval mansion which is now a library (Hotel de Sens). Being so centrally located to many of the city’s biggest attractions makes Paris 4 one of the best places to stay in Paris, especially if you love history, culture and are seeking an authentic French experience.

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5th Arrondissement

The 5th Arrondissement of Paris, which is also known as the Latin Quarter, is most well known for its vintage cinema screenings and as a hub of student nightlife for students at Sorbonne University.

Aside from the lively student atmosphere, the 5th Arrondissement is also the area where the Romans settled for the first time, founding the Roman city of Lutetia. The ancient streets which line this district still contain remnants of the Roman Lutetia, including medieval religious buildings and charming squares.

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6th Arrondissement

If you’ve been dreaming of living the quintessential Parisian life of sipping coffees at trendy cafes that line narrow streets, then the 6th Arrondissement is the area where you can bring that vision to life. 

One of the most chic areas in the city, the 6th district is home to one of the oldest coffee houses in Paris, Cafe de Flore, as well as the Luxembourg Gardens, Saint Sulpice Church, and upmarket boutique art galleries.

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7th Arrondissement

Many first time visitors to Paris assume that the Eiffel Tower is located central to the city. However, this isn’t the case. The 7th Arrondissement, which is west of the city centre, is home to the iconic Parisian monument, in an area where other tourist attractions are far and few between.

Aside from seeing the Eiffel Tower up close, you can also visit Les Invalides (Napoleon’s final resting place), the army museum and the Musee des Egouts in this district of Paris.

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8th Arrondissement

Following the Eiffel Tower, the most recognisable monument in Paris is the Arc de Triomphe, which can be found in the 8th Arrondissement of Paris; the home to all things fashion and luxury, which is symbolised by the famous “Golden Triangle” of Rue Montaigne, Rue George V and Avenue des Champs-Elysees.

Additionally, the 8th Arrondissement (Elysee) is also home to the French President’s official residence, an abundance of beautiful historic 5-star hotels, and two of the best Cabarets in Paris. This is definitely the best district in Paris to explore if you’re in search of that famous Parisian je ne sais quoi.

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9th Arrondissement

While there are two Opera buildings in Paris, the Opera made famous by Victor Hugo’s The Phantom of the Opera can be found in the form of the Opera Garnier in the city’s 9th Arrondissement. 

In addition to the awe-inducing Opera Garnier, visitors can also explore the Grands Magasins, enjoy a spot of shopping at the Grand Lafayette or enjoy the local Haussmannian architecture.

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10th Arrondissement

The arrondissement where the locals hang out, Paris’ 10th arrondissement is referred to as the district of bobos (bohemian-bourgeois Parisians), with streets lined with cafes, vintage shops, bars and restaurants.

Time in this district can best be spent strolling along the Canal Saint-Martin, vintage shopping, sipping on evening aperos and enjoying a picnic along the canals banks.

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11th Arrondissement

Located in the east of Paris, the 11th Arrondissement comes packed with history. Lying beneath the shadows of Bastille prison, the district boomed during King Louis XIV’s reign. The working-class district also later became a revolutionary icon during the 1832 rebellion, which sparked inspiration for Victor Hugo’s novel Les Miserables. 

The industrialisation of the 19th century saw many factories built in the area, especially in the fields of textiles, metals, glass and ceramics.

Retaining its historical working class roots, some of the 19th century factories do still exist, however, many have also been converted into contemporary hotels, shops and museums, such as l’Atelier des Lumieres.

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12th Arrondissement

To really experience Paris like a local, one must make time to explore the 12th Arrondissement; one of Paris’ main residential areas. 

While there aren’t any ‘big ticket’ items for tourists to visit in this district, the 12th Arrondissement is home to one of the city’s best markets, promenade, quirky historic sites and plenty of other delights.

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13th Arrondissement

Occupying the far southeast of Paris, the 13th arrondissement is filled with unique character. Filled with lots of artistic feats, visitors can enjoy incredible street art and speciality shops, including a store dedicated to local beekeeping!

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14th Arrondissement

If you’re after an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Paris, then it’s worth setting aside some time to explore the 14th arrondissement. This largely residential area in the south of the city isn’t on everyone’s list of best districts in Paris, however, the area does offer some beautiful gems for locals, or those who travel here frequently.

Home to the district of Parc Montsouris, you can spend time enjoying one of the most beautiful parks in the city, or opt for an underground adventure at the Catacombs of Paris or the Carrieres of the Capucins.

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15th Arrondissement

Situated in the southwest of Paris, the 15th Arrondissement is the largest in the city and the most populated. The area is largely residential, so unless you’re headed here for a specific reason, it’s unlikely that you’d visit if on a more tourist-y adventure. However, with no big-name sites nearby, the area is very quiet and family-friendly, making it one of the best places to stay in Paris if you’re travelling with a family, and are seeking a real local’s Paris.

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16th Arrondissement

Built during the second half of the 19th century, the 16th Arrondissement is one of the more upmarket districts in the city. Home to some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower and numerous lesser-known museums, this area is one of the best districts in Paris for picnics and enjoying impromptu lay-downs on the grass – making the most of that Parisian sun!

This upscale residential neighborhood offers some of the best places to stay in Paris, with plenty of rooftop bars for you to enjoy glowy, panoramic views of the city with your favourite cocktail in hand.

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17th Arrondissement

Located in the northwest of Paris, until the French Revolution, the area that is now the 17th Arrondissement was mostly occupied by Royal hunting grounds! 

Nowadays, the 17th Arrondissement is mostly residential; so similar to the 15th arrondissement, it’s unlikely that you’d find yourself here unless you had a specific place you wanted to visit.

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18th Arrondissement

Easily the most quintessential Parisian arrondissement (and the most visited!) is the 18th Arrondissement – or Montemarte. Considered by some as the best Paris arrondissement, Montemarte is where one can go to explore the Paris of yesteryear.

Some of the best things to do in Montmartre include visiting the Musee de Montmarte , enjoying a croissant et cafe at La Maison Rose (a cafe that used to be frequented by Picasso), the mesmerising Sacre Coeur and the famous Moulin Rouge .

Just in case that’s not enough, simply wandering along the winding cobbled streets and allowing the 18th Arrondissement to reveal itself to you is a most enjoyable way to spend an afternoon.You can visit Montmartre on Trafalgar’s ‘ Paris Explorer ’ tour, where you’ll hop onboard a private street trolley car and travel back in time to the colourful hillside village.

RELATED CONTENT: Where to go in Paris to retrace the footsteps of the 1920’s ‘Lost Generation’ of artists and writers

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19th Arrondissement

If you’re looking for an escape from the crowds, then the 19th Arrondissement is the best Paris arrondissement for you!

A former industrial area, today Paris 19 is home to the trendy Canal de l’Ourcq – Parc de la Villette, and one of the most beautiful parks in the city – Les Buttes-Chaumont.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Les Buttes-Chaumont (@parclesbutteschaumont)

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Guide To The 20 Arrondissements of Paris

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: March 21, 2021  - Last updated: July 17, 2023

The city of Paris is comprised of 20 arrondissements municipaux or administrative districts, or simply referred to as “arrondissements.” These Parisian neighborhoods are organized in the form of a clockwise spiral pattern, which is often likened to a snail shell. The arrangement starts from the center of the city and ends in the east.

These arrondissements are not to be confused with departmental arrondissements , which have to do with the administrative divisions of France. 

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20 Arrondissements of Paris Map

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From the French arrondir , which means “make round,” the word “arrondissement,” when applied to Paris, almost always means its municipal arrondissements. 

These administrative divisions date back to the French Revolution when authorities decided to arrange Paris into 12 arrondissements in 1795. Paris expanded from a small town centered on the Islands , requiring more administrative and new districts.

So 65 years later, the city integrated parts of its suburbs, adding 8 new arrondissements. This occurred during the time of the reconstruction of Paris under Baron Haussmann. The now 20 arrondissements make up the “Paris’ snail.”

Each of these 20 Paris districts has a Mairie or town hall and a mayor or Maire , and elected officials, et cetera. All 20 of them, however, are still under the rule of the city and the mayor of Paris.

Here’s a guide to help you better understand the 20 arrondissements of Paris and see which of them is best for you.

Paris arrondissements have other names and you might encounter locals who use the abbreviations, the historical name, or even the French name . You might also see these names in written documents. In case it does happen, here’s our cheat sheet for Arrondissements of Paris.

The best places to visit in Paris are located in different arrondissements. If you are unsure where to stay, you can use this guide to find out which area to stay.

20 Arrondissements of Paris Guide

Located in the heart of the old city of Paris, the 1st arrondissement is also known as Louvre, after the Louvre Museum. This district also features the St. Eustache Cathedral, the Tuileries Gardens, the 17th-century Palais Royal, and boulevards from the Hausmann era. 

Luxury jewelers and designer boutiques abound along the very chic Rue Saint Honoré and Place Vendôme. Les Halles is known for its international fashion chains along Rue de Rivoli, the Canopée, and a vast underground mall. 

Read More: Guide To The 1st Arrondissement of Paris

The 2nd arrondissement , Bourse, is on the right bank of the River Seine.

A primarily business district, Bourse is home to the Paris Opéra, the historic Bourse de Paris (Paris Stock Exchange), and the largest movie theater in Paris called Le Grand Rex. Here you can also find the notorious Tour Jean-sans-Peur or Tower of John the Fearless, a fortified tower from the medieval period, where a brutal assassination once happened. 

The 2nd Parisian district also houses the Opéra Comique, one of Paris’ classic old theatres; and Passage des Panoramas, which is ideal for a stroll or shopping spree.

Read More: Guide To The 2nd Arrondissement of Paris

Also known as Temple and Haut-Marais or Northern Marais, the 3rd arrondissement is where you can find the northern, quieter part of Le Marais, a medieval district of Paris shared with the 4th arrondissement. 

Haut-Marais arrondissement houses 9 museums, including the Musée Picasso and the favorite among science history buffs—Musée des Arts et Métiers. 

Another top attraction is the lively Marché des Enfants Rouge, the oldest covered market in Paris , which is mostly frequented for its international food stalls. 

Read More: Guide To The 3rd Arrondissement of Paris

The 4th arrondissement is also known as Hôtel-de-Ville, known for its quaint little streets, shops, and cafés. This district is home to the Renaissance-era Paris City Hall and the grassy Place des Vosges, a modern art museum called Centre Pompidou, and the Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Also contained in the 4th arrondissement is the lively southern part of Le Marais, which is known for its gay bars, galleries, and trendy boutiques.

Read More: Guide To The 4th Arrondissement of Paris

Known as Panthéon, the 5th arrondissement is found on the left bank of the River Seine. This arrondissement is also called the Latin Quarter, for the district dominated by universities and colleges, including the Sorbonne University.

That is why this arrondissement is noted for its bookshops, as well as student bars and cafés.

This district houses the Panthéon building, where the remains of notables like Voltaire, Victor Hugo , Émile Zola, and Marie Curie are buried.

The Jardin des Plantes botanical gardens and the National Museum of Natural History are also located here.  

Read More: Guide To The 5th Arrondissement of Paris

Luxembourg, the 6th arrondissement , is on the left bank of the River Seine. This district is dominated by the Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most popular parks in Paris.

The 6th arrondissement is home to posh restaurants and boutiques, and the 6th-century Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the oldest church in Paris. 

The Boulevard Saint-Germain attracts literature buffs, thanks to its various bookstores and publishing houses. It is also famous for its iconic cafés including the Brasserie Lipp, Les Deux Magots, le Procope, and Café de Flore, and the Brasserie Lipp.

The Luxembourg arrondissement is noted for being home to French intellectuals. Its many art galleries and fashion stores make this district one of the most fashionable as well as most expensive areas in Paris.

Read More: Guide To The 6th Arrondissement of Paris

The 7th arrondissement , called Palais Bourbon, is home to the meeting place of the National Assembly—the Palais Bourbon. It also houses some of the most famous tourist attractions of Paris including the Eiffel Tower , Champs de Mars Park, Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, and  Napoleon’s resting place at Les Invalides armory museum. 

World-famous museums such as Musée d’Orsay, Musée du quai Branly, and Musée Rodin are also situated in this district.

The 7th Arrondissement of Paris is a very affluent district, located on the Rive Gauche or the left bank of the River Seine.

The historical aristocratic neighborhood of Faubourg Saint-Germain is part of this arrondissement. A favorite home of the French upper class, it also houses various foreign diplomatic embassies.

Read More: Guide To The 7th Arrondissement of Paris

The 8th arrondissement , called Élysée, is a very chic district is marked out by the Avenue des Champs Elysées. Located on the right bank of the River Seine, it extends to the iconic Arc de Triomphe and the Place de la Concorde. It is one of Paris’ major business districts.

This arrondissement is home to art museums, including the Grand Palais, which holds a lot of high-profile exhibitions. Élysée Palace, the official residence of the President of France, is also found here. 

Other places of interests include the Hotel de Crillon, Place de la Concorde, Parc Monceau, and of course, the famous shopping destinations for French fashion luxury brands in Avenue Montaigne and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré.

Read More: Guide To The 8th Arrondissement of Paris

Found on the right bank of the River Seine, the 9th arrondissement , called Opéra, is the location for various places of cultural, historical, and architectural interest.

The Opéra arrondissement is home to the Palais Garnier , which was built for the Paris Opera from 1861 to 1875 at Emperor Napoleon III’s orders. This famous opera house is nicknamed the “wedding cake” for its domed roof and detailed architecture.

Pigalle, the well-known neon-lit red-light district, offers an eclectic nightlife experience, while the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are havens for shoppers. The 9th arrondissement also houses numerous theaters, the most notable ones being Théatre de Paris, Folies Bergères, and Théatre Mogador.

Read More: Guide To The 9th Arrondissement of Paris

Situated on the right bank of the River Seine, the 10th arrondissement is called Entrepôt, or “warehouse” in English. However, because of its large Turkish minority, this district is often referred to as “La Petite Turquie” or Little Turkey.

This arrondissement is the location of the Gare du Nord and the Gare de l’Est, two of Paris’ six main railway stations. These train stations are among the busiest in Europe. 

A huge part of the Canal Saint-Martin is within the 10th arrondissement. Bohemian cafés, as well as Indian restaurants, abound along the famous Parisian canal. 

There are trendy bars and restaurants around Place de la Republique square. But if you want somewhere quiet with global restos and art studios, then Rue Sainte-Marthe is the place to go. 

Read More: Guide To The 10th Arrondissement of Paris

For partygoers, the 11th arrondissement is a good option. This is a diverse district with lively bars around Rue Oberkampf and nearby streets. 

Called Popincourt, this urban district is one of the most heavily-populated, not just in France but in all of Europe. Église Saint-Ambroise, Cirque d’hiver, Musée du Fumeur, and Musée Édith Piaf are among places of interest.

For shopping and dining, head to Rue de Charonne, between the République and Nation squares. For a taste of history, the Place de la Bastille lies in the east, after which you may sample what those trendy bars around the place offer. Families will enjoy the markets and children’s parks along Boulevard Richard-Lenoir.

Read More: Guide To The 11th Arrondissement of Paris

The 12th arrondissement is called Reuilly. This is home to the French Ministry of Finances and the AccorHotels Arena.

This arrondissement is mostly residential, but it houses the second-largest opera house in Paris called the Opéra de la Bastille.

Other notable places of interest include the Faubourg Saint-Antoine, Bois de Vincennes, Jardin du Bassin de l’Arsenal, Musée des Arts Forains, Cimetière de Picpus, and Zoo de Vincennes.

Read More: Guide To The 12th Arrondissement of Paris

The 13th arrondissement is known as Gobelins—or locally, la petite Asie (English: “Little Asia”), since this is Paris’ main Asian district. Gobelins arrondissement has a lot of Chinese and Vietnamese business establishments. 

The 13th arrondissement is home to the Bibliothèque Nationale de France, the national library which is set within book-shaped towers. Also located in the district is the Tour Super-Italie, one of the highest towers in France. The historic tapestry factory called the Gobelins Manufactory is worth a visit as well.

Read More: Guide To The 13th Arrondissement of Paris

The 14th arrondissement’s official name is arrondissement de l’Observatoire , which means “arrondissement of the Observatory,” referring to the Paris Observatory. 

This arrondissement is known for the Catacombes de Paris (Paris Catacombs), as well as the Montparnasse Cemetery, the resting place of many notables like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre.

Fans of contemporary art can visit Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson. The Musée Lenine, a museum dedicated to Vladimir Lenin, is also found in the 14th arrondissement.

Read More: Guide To The 14th Arrondissement of Paris

The 15th arrondissement is one of the quietest sections in Paris, the majority of which is relatively unfrequented by tourists. The district is mostly residential with quaint shops around La Motte-Picquet Grenelle train station.

The arrondissement is called Vaugirard, after Rue de Vaugirard, a very long street that stretches through the district. This is home to the Tour Montparnasse , the highest skyscraper in Paris. 

The Vaugirard arrondissement is also the location of the exhibition and convention center, Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, as well as the Font de Seine.

Other places of interest include the Musée Bourdelle, Parc André Citroën, Church of Notre-Dame de la Salette, and the replica of the statue of Liberty on the île aux Cygnes, a small man-made island on the River Seine.

Read More: Guide To The 15th Arrondissement of Paris

Known for its large green spaces, the 16th arrondissement is teeming with gardens and parks. These include the Jardin d’Acclimatation, Japanese Garden of the Buddhist Pavilion, Parc Sainte-Périne, and Bagatelle Park. 

The arrondissement holds part of the Arc de Triomphe, with a lot of notable museums between the Place d’Iéna and the Place du Trocadéro. Two of the most popular of these museums are the Fondation Louis Vuitton and Palais Tokyo. It also houses the Roland Garros Stadium, where the French Open major tennis tournaments are held.

The 16th arrondissement is among the most opulent areas of Paris.

Read More: Guide To The 16th Arrondissement of Paris

The 17th arrondissement, known as Batignolles-Monceau, is on the right bank of the River Seine. This arrondissement attracts bohemian crowds with its narrow streets brimming with shops, trendy wine bars, and restaurants. 

Tourists head to the Parc Monceau and Musée national Jean-Jacques Henner, but as it lies a bit off the beaten path, no major sights are there to see. But this is real Paris at its best, so that is reason enough to pay this arrondissement a visit. On a side note, the architecture is pretty amazing in this area. 

Read More: Guide To The 17th Arrondissement of Paris

The 18th arrondissement is known as Butte-Montmartre, centered around La Butte Montmartre (English: hillock of Montmartre). This used to be an artists’ village where Amedeo Modigliani, Salvador Dali, Georges Braque, and Pablo Picasso once lived in. It is more famous, however, for the splendid hilltop basilica—the Sacré Cœur .

Below the hillock is the iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret, which attracts tourists and nightclub-goers. 

The 18th arrondissement is also home to the African district of Goutte d’Or. The place is known for the marché Barbès , a market where you can find different items from Africa.

Read More: Guide To The 18th Arrondissement of Paris

The 19th arrondissement, called Butte-Chaumont, is crossed by two canals—the Canal Saint-Denis and the Canal de l’Ourcq. This arrondissement houses the hilltop Parc des Buttes Chaumont and the Parc de la Villette which are some of the best parks and gardens in Paris.  

The Parc de la Villette houses some of the best attractions in the district. Among these are the Cité de la Musique, a group of institutions devoted to music, and the very distinguished music school, Conservatoire de Paris. Also located here is the museum and exhibition center called the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie.

If you get tired of waterfalls and city views, the Cent Quatre on Parc des Buttes Chaumont regularly holds contemporary art exhibitions.

Read More: Guide To The 19th Arrondissement of Paris

Also known as Ménilmontant, the 20th arrondissement is home to Ménilmontant and Belleville, two of the city’s cosmopolitan districts. 

Belleville is filled with street art, contemporary art galleries, and low-end Chinese restaurants, while Ménilmontant is noted for music bars.

The 20th arrondissement is also famous for the Père Lachaise Cemetery, a sprawling 44-hectare park, and an open-air museum in one. It is Paris’ first garden cemetery and France’s largest burial ground, where the remains of notables like Eugène Delacroix, Honoré de Balzac, Oscar Wilde, Sarah Bernhardt, Marcel Proust, and Maria Callas are buried. The Père Lachaise Cemetery is also the resting place of Jim Morrison.

Read More: Guide To The 20th Arrondissement of Paris

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

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Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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20 Paris Arrondissements: A local’s guide to the districts

• Post category: Paris & Île-de-France
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

The city of Paris is made up of 20 neighborhoods or districts, known as arrondissements in French. Every Parisian has their favorite arrondissement, and equally passionately, heartily dislikes another area. (Not as much as they dislike the suburbs , but that is another story!)

So deciding where to stay in Paris and base yourself, could make or break your trip. Sights to see, things not to miss, and what to avoid, we cover it all.

If you would like the quick version, with my top hotels in Paris, head over to my Resources guide . And you can find out more about bars and nightlife in Paris here.

So Left bank vs. Right bank, the Marais vs. Latin Quarter , or Passy vs. Buttes aux Cailles, here is a guide on what to see and what to do in each area. Allons-y!

What is an arrondissement?

An arrondissement is more than just a neighborhood, it is a district with its own mayor, town hall, and individual bureaucracy. Other large cities in France such as Lyon and Marseille also use arrondissements.

The Paris neighborhoods can be as different from one another as chalk and cheese, with each one having its own special “personality”. With each individual arrondissement having its own mayor, you need someone to keep them all in line.

So the City of Paris has a larger governing Mayor and Hotel de Ville (town hall) above them. The French certainly like their layers of government! We don’t have the English equivalent of the word “ Mille Feuille “, which is a french cake , but also refers to the many layers of bureaucracy.

☞ READ MORE: 21 Romantic Things to do in Paris for couples

So to give an example, if a Parisian is getting married , or trying to get their child into créche (nursery), it is the individual town hall of the Paris arrondissement that they will be dealing with.

But for the overall management of Paris, such as cleanliness, housing issues, school openings & closings, it is the large Hotel de Ville in the 4th that is in charge. (There is not a quiz later on all this, I promise.)

The 1st arrondissement starts at 1 in the center, near the Louvre Museum , and continue outwards in a circular snail fashion.

In recent news, it has been announced that the arrondissements 1-4, that center of Paris on the Right Bank, are going to merge into a single arrondissement for administration purposes, as more and more Parisians leave for the suburbs and the central arrondissements lose their population. If you would like to understand why, here is my post about the truth about living in Paris: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

Anyway, let’s zoom in on each neighborhood and decide which one we like the best!

1st Arrondissement – The Louvre Museum & Chatelet

The center of Paris! From the Louvre Museum, Palais de la Cité (Conciergerie), Pont Neuf and more, this is the historic heart of the capital.

Here you will also find the mother of all Metro stations: Chatelet Les Halles.  It is one of the largest metro stations in the world and probably one of the ugliest as well. The main connecting point for most of the public transit in Paris.  So if accessibility is important to you, this is where you want to stay in Paris.

With many 5-star Hotel Palaces and the lovely Jardin des Tuileries right around the corner, this is Haute Paris . You can read more about the 1st arrondissement here.

Top attractions:

• Louvre Museum , the world’s largest art museum, and a UNESCO historic monument .
• Pont Neuf bridge and the little Square du Vert-Galant park at the tip of the island, to catch a view of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. 
• Conciergerie , the royal palace turned prison, where Marie Antoinette spent her last days.
• Sainte Chapelle and its beautiful stained glass windows
• Colonnes de Buren, the famous art installation located in the inner courtyard of the Palais Royal .

If you have time to visit:

• The high-end shops on Rue Saint-Honoré.

Where to stay:

• €€€ – Hotel Opera Maintenon
• €€€€ – Saint James Albany Hotel & Spa
• €€€€€ – Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection
• €€€€€ – Château Voltaire

You can find more accommodation options for the 1st arrondissement here.

2nd Arrondissement – Palais de la Bourse

One of the smallest of the arrondissements in Paris, it used to be organized around the ancien Palais de la Bourse, or Palace of the Stock Market.  

With everything being online these days, the Bourse now holds events such as exhibitions and private cocktail parties. You can read more about the 2nd arrondissement here.

• The hidden covered passageways such as Passages des Panoramas and Galerie Vivienne.

If you have time:

• Rue Etienne Marcel and Rue Montorgueil , two lovely and lively streets at the heart of Paris.
• €€€ – Korner Opera
• €€€€ – Lyric Hotel Paris Opera
• €€€€€ – Grand Hôtel Du Palais Royal

You can find more accommodation options for the 2nd arrondissement here.

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3rd Arrondissement – The Marais

This Paris arrondissement is the heart of the Marais . With the bustling Rue de Rivoli and pedestrian shopping zones , this is the perfect area to while away an afternoon. The area has a ton of bars and restaurants , as well as a lively gay scene, so park yourself at a café terrasse and have a cocktail.

Note, if you are looking for a quiet apartment with not much street noise, the Marais is not the place to be. If you enjoy having a bit of nightlife around, however, the Marais is where you should stay in Paris. You can read more about the 3rd arrondissement here.

• the Marais pedestrian zone.
• Visit the gorgeous Places des Vosges and its lovely art galleries. This is the oldest square in Paris, where French nobility and elite still live.
• the Place de la Republique which is the place you see on TV where protestors usually gather.
• the Picasso Museum , hosting many works of the artist Pablo Picasso.
• €€€ – Paris France Hotel
• €€€€ – Hôtel National Des Arts et Métiers
• €€€€€ – Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa

You can find more accommodation options for the 3rd arrondissement here.

4th Arrondissement – Notre Dame de Paris Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral on Ile de la Cité is under construction after its extensive fire in April 2019, but you can still admire it from the outside.

These days, the two islands in the middle of Paris, Ile de la Cité and its neighboring Île St Louis are charming quiet neighborhoods where understated shops and restaurants flourish. You can read more about the 4th arrondissement here.

• Bertillon’s ice cream on Île Saint Louis .
• The Centre Pompidou’s collection of modern art.
• The Hôtel de Ville (Paris’s main town hall). While you cannot visit inside, the neo-renaissance building is spectacular and often has events in front of it (concerts in the summer and an ice-skating rink in winter).
• €€€ – Hôtel du Vieux Marais
• €€€€ – Roi de Sicile – Rivoli (Luxury apartment hotel)
• €€€€€ – Cour des Vosges

You can find more accommodation options for the 4th arrondissement here.

5th Arrondissement – Latin Quarter

The 5th arrondissement is nicknamed the Latin Quarter for the university La Sorbonne that used to teach in Latin, this is one of the oldest parts of Paris. The Romans used to hang out here.

Today, it is still a student area, with many student bars and restaurants. Don’t be fooled though, the area is quite familial with many bourgeois Parisians also making their home here. You can read more about the 5th arrondissement here.

• the Pantheon , where France’s national heroes and legendary figures are buried.
• Go shopping on Rue Mouffetard and people watch from the nearby cafés at Place de Contrescape.
• Musée de Cluny , which houses an extensive collection of medieval art in a 15th-century abbey.
• Shakespeare & Co’s bookstore near the banks of the Seine river.
• €€€ – Hotel De Suez
• €€€ – Hotel du College de France
• €€€€ – Hotel Le Notre Dame Saint Michel
• €€€€ – Residence Henri IV

You can find more accommodation options for the 5th arrondissement here.

6th Arrondissement – Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The 6th arrondissement holds the exclusive neighborhoods of Saint-Germain-des-Prés and quartier de Odeon, some of the most expensive parts of Paris.  

The famous café Les Deux Magots where Picasso and Hemingway were regulars, is also in the 6th, today attracting hordes of tourists. You can read more about the 6th arrondissement here.

• Jardin du Luxembourg , the local backyard of central Parisians.
• Church of Saint Sulpice , which is these days, most famous for being featured in the Dan Brown novel Da Vinci Code.
• La Procope – Paris’s oldest coffeehouse and restaurant

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• Transport yourself to medieval Paris with a visit to the Cours du Commerce Saint-André courtyard (link in French), a narrow passageway with cobblestone streets that looks like it belongs in Harry Potter.
• €€€ – Hotel Le Petit Chomel
• €€€€ – Hotel Le Littré
• €€€€€ – Hôtel D’Aubusson (with swimming pool)

You can find more accommodation options for the 6th arrondissement here.

7th Arrondissement – Tour Eiffel

La grande dame, the Eiffel Tower lives here, with the glorious Champs de Mars park at its base. The 7th is also home to the Musée d’Orsay , that “other” museum that gives the Louvre a good run for its money.

This is a quieter part of the city, with most of the arrondissement covered by large complex of Les Invalides buildings and the Champs de Mars. The French House of representatives, the Assemblée Nationale is also in this area, but is usually closed to visitors. You can read more about the 7th arrondissement here.

• Eiffel Tower
• Musée d’Orsay , the world-renowned museum that is home to the Impressionists.
• Les Invalides with its over-the-top tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte and its military museums. It is still today a military base in the center of the city, and many important and symbolic events take place in its courtyards.
• The ornate Pont Alexandre III bridge which leads to the Grand Palais.
• Musée Rodin , dedicated to the French sculptor Auguste Rodin.
• Bon Marché, a grand department store that has probably every high-end item you can think of. Bring your chequebook.
• Rue Cler market street .
• €€€ – Hôtel Eiffel Turenne
• €€€€ – Hôtel de la Bourdonnais
• €€€€€ – Le Narcisse Blanc

You can find more accommodation options for the 7th arrondissement here.

8th Arrondissement – Place de la Concorde and Champs Elysées

We’ve done a circle and are back near the Louvre Museum and the Rue de Rivoli. Place de la Concorde is where Marie-Antoinette, King Louis VI and other members of French nobility had their heads guillotined. These days it is a giant roundabout, with a fountain in the middle and the American Embassy next to it.

Connecting to the Concorde is that famous shopping street the Champs Elysées , which has seen the invading armies of Napoleon, Hitler, and busloads of foreign tourists.

Nearby is also the home of the French President, the Palais Elysées , but unless it is Patrimony Day , you will not be able to visit inside. You can read more about the 8th arrondissement here.

• Avenue des Champs Elysées
• Place de la Concorde
• Stroll through the luxury boutiques on Avenue Montaigne . Chanel, Christian Dior, Louis Vuitton, Saint Laurent Paris, and Prada are all located in the neighborhood.
• See what special exhibitions are on at the Grand Palais and Petit Palais .
• €€€€ – Hotel Le Marianne
• €€€€€ – Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris
• €€€€€ – Hotel de Crillon

You can find more accommodation options for the 8th arrondissement here.

9th Arrondissement – Grand Boulevard and Opéra Garnier

The 9th is one of the best arrondissements for night-life. If you are looking for hip young bars, Grand Boulevard and So-pi (aka South Pigalle) are the places to be.

If you are looking for a show, the Opera house Palais Garnier, Folie Bèrgere or any one of the tiny theatres that are in the quartier can entertain you.

And if you need something to wear for all these wonderful outings, the Grand Magasins (department stores) Galarie Lafayette and Printemps will have you properly equipped with plenty of ready-to-wear brand names .

For those who enjoy shopping, I would recommend this area as one of the top places to stay in Paris. You can read more about the 9th arrondissement here.

• The rooftop café of Galerie Lafayette, offering splendid views of the city.
• Catch a show at the Opera Garnier, or take the tour of the opera house.
• Rue des Martyrs is now a vibrant street for gourmands covered in artisan food shops, cafés, and restaurants.
• If you missed out on the covered passages in the 2nd arrondissement earlier, not to worry, some of them such as Passage Jouffroy connect into the 9th!
• €€€€ – Chouchou Hotel
• €€€€€ – InterContinental Paris Le Grand, an IHG Hotel
• €€€€€ – Maison Albar Hotels – Le Vendome (with swimming pool)

You can find more accommodation options for the 9th arrondissement here.

10th Arrondissement – Canal St. Martin

This is hipster central, the place where cool Parisians hang out for after-work drinks. With its iron footbridges, this 19th-century waterway is lined with trendy restaurants and bars. You can read more about foods and drinks to try in Paris here.

Further north is the Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est train stations, which I will confess are probably two metro stations that you do not want to loiter outside of.

Join the cool Parisians by picking this neighborhood as where to you want to stay in Paris. You can read more about the 10th arrondissement here.

• Take a river cruise from Canal Saint Martin to the Seine River, where you will pass under the Place de la Bastille and the city of Paris.
• Visit the edgy neighborhood of Belleville, a tiny corner that straddles the 10, 11, 19 and 20th arrondissements. This is the Other Paris.
• €€€ – La Planque Hotel 
• €€€€ – Hôtel Le Milie Rose
• €€€€€ – Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel & Spa

You can find more accommodation options for the 10th arrondissement here.

11th Arrondissement – Place de la Bastille

The epicenter of the French Revolution , Place de la Bastille is where the ancient prison was located before it was destroyed. Looking at the busy roundabout these days, you would never know it was there.

So instead wander over to the quirky Rue de Lappe with its many bars and discotheques, and let your hair down.

And if you happen to have a nuit blanche (an all-nighter at the bars) and it is Sunday morning, you are in luck. The Marché Bastille, one of the largest outdoor farmers’ markets in Paris will be on. You can read more about the 11th arrondissement here.

• Place de la Bastille and Rue de Lappe
• Quartier Oberkampf, another lively neighborhood with bars and restaurants.
• Jardin du Port d’Arsenal, a lovely park on the banks of the Canal Saint-Martin, just before the Canal connects to the Seine River.
• €€€ – Hôtel Marais Hôme
• €€€€ – Hôtel Les Deux Girafes
• €€€€€ – Maison Bréguet

You can find more accommodation options for the 11th arrondissement here.

☞ READ MORE: 9 Best Places for the Perfect Picnic in Paris

12th Arrondissement – Bercy Village

This is where the Instagram-famous Rue Cremieux can be found, but we really think you should leave its residents alone. The 12th arrondissement is one of the more residential neighborhoods of Paris, but there are still plenty of shops and restaurants around.

It is also home to the Opera de Bastille, otherwise known as the ugly step-sister, compared to Opera Garnier which looks like a jewel box. The ballets and other spectacles inside however are just magnificent.

The equivalent of the residential 16th arrondissement on the west side, the 12th also has a large forest attached, the Bois de Vincennes. You can read more about the 12th arrondissement here.

• Coulée Vert is a 5km long elevated park that was built on top of an obsolete railway track. Talk about bringing the “green” back!
• Outdoor mall Bercy Village, which has very expensive parking, but is otherwise a lovely outdoor mall that was implanted into restored white stone warehouses. A beautiful atmosphere on a sunny day.
• Relax and watch local Parisians near the lake in Bois de Vincennes.
• €€€ – Hotel Albe Bastille
• €€€€ – Hôtel Parisianer
• €€€€ – Courtyard by Marriott Paris Gare de Lyon

You can find more accommodation options for the 12th arrondissement here.

☞ READ MORE: Paris with Kids: 16 Things to do (that are not crazy)

13th Arrondissement – Les Gobelins and Buttes aux Cailles

During the 1970s, city planners decided that they needed to increase the amount of housing in Paris, and so authorized a bunch of ugly tall buildings in the 13th (along with Montparnasse in the 15th.) These buildings probably wouldn’t be remarkable in New York or Toronto, but amongst the gorgeous 18th-century buildings of Paris, they stand out like a sore thumb.

Nevertheless, the 13th is home to the very quaint Buttes aux Cailles neighborhood, which is a village onto itself. You can read more about the 13th arrondissement here.

• Buttes aux Cailles village.
• Authentic Chinese food is renown in the 13th.
• Les Gobelins Factory which used to and still makes tapestries that decorate many public buildings in France.
• €€€ – Urban Bivouac Hotel
• €€€€ – Hotel B55 (with small pool)
• €€€€ – Mercure Paris Place d’Italie

You can find more accommodation options for the 13th arrondissement here.

☞ READ MORE: 12 Best Day Trips from Paris (that you shouldn’t miss!)

14th Arrondissement – Artists studios and the Catacombs

One of the more residential neighborhoods of Paris, this is also an area known for the artists who used to hang around there. The area became famous in the 1920s and 30s, les Années Folles  (the Crazy Years), where Picasso, Zola, Manet and Hemmingway all used to gather and discuss the issues of the world.

At the same time, Ville Suerat (named after George Suerat) was opened as an artists’ residence, bringing even more artists to the area. Today there are still many art studios around, but unless you know them, you are not going to be invited over for tea.

Your better bet would be to check out the Paris Catacombs where the residents are more forthcoming (piles of skulls and bones of the dead). Do not visit if you are claustrophobic. You can read more about visiting the 14th arrondissement here.

• Catacombs of Paris, part of an underground tunnel network that holds the remains of more than six million people.
• The restaurants and cafés of Boulevard Montparnasse which was the epicenter of the artists’ les Annés Folles.
• €€€ – Hôtel Du Midi Paris Montparnasse
• €€€€ – BoB Hotel by Elegancia
• €€€€ – Pullman Paris Montparnasse

You can find more accommodation options for the 14th arrondissement here.

15th Arrondissement – Tour Montparnasse

Montparnasse tower is the ugly building in the center of Paris that rivals the Tour Eiffel in height. The new Musée Jean Moulin about the French Resistance and WWII has also recently opened in the area.

Surrounding it are office buildings and family-oriented neighborhoods. If the north of Paris is a bit grungy and unclean, the 15th is the opposite, with large boulevards and residential quiet streets. You can read more about the 15th arrondissement here.

• The view from Montparnasse, which provides excellent photos of Paris that include the Tour Eiffel. The restaurant at the top is not too shabby either.
• Metro Line 6 which is above ground and gives you a wonderful view of residential Paris.
• Musée Jean Moulin about the French Resistance and WWII
• The mini Statue of Liberty given by the U.S. to France. It is located on the Pont de Grenelle bridge that traverses the Seine River.
• €€€ –   Hôtel Vic Eiffel
• €€€€ – Hotel Eiffel Blomet (with swimming pool)
• €€€€ – Hôtel Gustave

You can find more accommodation options for the 15th arrondissement here.

16th Arrondissement – Passy & Bois de Boulogne

Passy and the historically affluent 16th is a practically a suburb, with its large apartments and quiet streets. You might be interested to know that one of the Founding Fathers Benjamin Franklin lived here when he was ambassador to France.

The 16th also hosts Roland-Garros Stadium where the French Open of Tennis is played, and Parc des Princes which is a football stadium and concert venue.

The arrondissement connects to a large forest on the west of Paris, known as the Bois de Boulogne, which has within in Jardin d’Acclimatation, and the Fondation Louis Vuitton. You can read more about the 16th arrondissement here.

• Fondation Louis Vuitton in Bois de Boulogne, a modern art museum designed by Frank Gehry.
• Jardin d’Acclimatation, an amusement park for small children.
• Piscine Molitor, a hotel and outdoor swimming pool complex built in 1929 with an art deco flair.
• €€€ – Hôtel de Sévigné
• €€€€ – Hôtel Keppler
• €€€€ – Hotel Molitor (with swimming pool)
• €€€€€ – Shangri-La Paris (with swimming pool)

You can find more accommodation options for the 16th arrondissement here.

17th Arrondissement – Arc de Triomphe

One of the more eclectic arrondissements in Paris, the 17th starts at the Arc de Triomphe and continues to edge of the city till it reaches the Peripherique (a six-lane highway that surrounds Paris.)

The infamous Metro line 13, in which passengers coming from outside the Periph’ are packed like sardines, also runs through the 17th. People who are looking to buy an apartment, usually run like the plague if their closest metro stop is on line 13.

North of the 17th is the quirky village of Batignolles, which was annexed into Paris by Napoleon III in 1860. It still maintains a village feel that makes for a lovely visit. You can read more about the 17th arrondissement here.

• Climb up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe and bow to the tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame
• Wander around the bobo-chic quartier of Batignolles, with your camera at the ready for classic Paris.
• €€€ – Hôtel Elysées Flaubert
• €€€€ – Hotel Flanelles Paris
• €€€€€ – Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe Hotel

You can find more accommodation options for the 17th arrondissement here.

18th Arrondissement – Montmartre

Moulin Rouge, Pigalle and Sacré Coeur Basilica perched on a hill, welcome to the 18th arrondissement. This was another area heavily frequented by the artists, Matisse, Picasso, Renoir, Van Gogh, Degas, etc. during la Belle Epoque.

Walk past the cheesy souvenir shops, and head up the hill for a wonderful view of all of Paris. Montmartre is where the classic film Amélie Poulin was filmed and its iconic cobblestone streets will carry you past a ton of vintage and ethnic stores.

Note: This area is very hilly, so if you have trouble climbing and walking up stairs, you should limit your time in this area. You can read more about the 18th arrondissement here.

• Sit on the stairs of Sacre Coeur Cathedral
• Sip a glass of wine and watch the artists and caricaturists in Place du Tertre
• Catch a show at the Moulin Rouge.
• Certain metro stops in this area have a “reputation” for a lot of pickpockets and loiterers. Be wary and aware when walking around at night around the metro stops of Chateau Rouge, Barbès – Rochechouart, La Chapelle and Gare du Nord.
• €€€ – Hotel de Flore
• €€€€ – Hôtel des Arts Montmartre

You can find more accommodation options for the 18th arrondissement here.

19th Arrondissement – Parc de la Villette and Buttes Chaumont

Parc de la Villette is a large flat park that surrounds the Canal d’Ourcq in the north of Paris, where there is always something going on. Concerts, picnics, festivals, and river cruises, this is where locals come to spend an afternoon.

Nearby is another large park, the Buttes Chaumont, which is a park with more trees and hills in it. It is also home to the classic bar the Rosa Bonheur, where cheap drinks and good times can be had by all. You can read more about the 19th arrondissement here.

• Rosa Bonheur tapas bar in Buttes Chaumont Park.
• Cité des Sciences (in Parc de la Villette); one of the biggest science museums and planetariums in the world.
• €€€ – Hotel Restaurant Au Boeuf Couronné
• €€€€ – The ReMIX Hotel

You can find more accommodation options for the 19th arrondissement here.

☞ READ MORE: 40 Fantastic Things to do in Paris on your first trip

20th Arrondissement – Père Lachaise

The famous Père Lachaise cemetery is located here in the 20th. While this is more of a family neighborhood, there are also some unexpectedly hip places around, such as the Bellevilloise bar and the Mama Shelter restaurant and hotel. You can read more about the 20th arrondissement here.

• Visit Père Lachaise cemetery
• €€€ – Hotel Scarlett
• €€€€ – Novotel Suites Paris Montreuil Vincennes

You can find more accommodation options for the 20th arrondissement here.

☞ READ MORE: 12 tips on What NOT to do in Paris (Do this instead!)

So have you picked a favorite Paris arrondissement yet? A neighborhood like the Marais can be great to visit, but perhaps too noisy? But maybe the 16th is too quiet? If you are still not sure where to stay in Paris, check out my shortlist of favorite hotels . C’est à vous de choisir! It is for you to decide. A bientôt!

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An insider’s guide to the districts of Paris

By France specialist Liz

Like many European cities, Paris began as a small settlement which has slowly expanded over the centuries, gradually swallowing up the surrounding communities. These enclaves, known as quartiers, retained their own discrete personalities and architecture. Baron Haussmann went on to codify the quartiers when he created the system of arrondissements in the 19th century.

Whenever I visit Paris , I spare some time to explore these distinctive districts, aimlessly strolling through their streets, browsing in the many small shops, and pausing for a cup of coffee at the intimate cafés. Away from the tourists that throng around the major attractions, the pace slows down and it’s easier to slip into a languorous French attitude.

Districts of Paris to include in your visit

The latin quarter.

Located in the 7th arrondissement on the Left Bank, the Quartier Latin, or Latin Quarter, is home to the University of Paris, commonly known as the Sorbonne. The quarter derives its name from the fact that the students here communicated primarily in Latin, at least until the French Revolution.

Thanks to the students from the Sorbonne, as well as several other universities in the area, the area hums with youthful energy at all hours of the day and night. The streets are lined with bars and excellent but affordable restaurants. In fact, I had one of my most memorable French meals at the tiny Restaurant Au Port du Salut on the Rue Saint-Jacques, a dish of perfectly tender braised lamb.

The Latin Quarter is also home to the Panthéon, a church-turned-mausoleum that contains the tombs of some of France’s greatest thinkers, including Voltaire, Rousseau and Hugo.

As an American and a student of the French Enlightenment, I’m fascinated by the influence that these great philosophers had on our own Founding Fathers and the American Revolution. I’m also wryly amused at the fact that Voltaire and Rousseau — bitter rivals — are buried across from one another in the crypt, sentenced to glare at each other for eternity.

Natural philosopher and physicist Léon Foucault used his enormous pendulum to prove the rotation of the Earth here, too. Today, a modern recreation of the ground-breaking experiment swings ponderously under the soaring dome.

Apart from its historic role, the Panthéon is also a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. It features vaulted ceilings that are decorated with rich murals and pierced with high windows that let in streaming sunlight that reflects off the marbles floors inlaid with bold geometric designs. The exterior features Corinthian columns and a bas-relief pediment that depicts allegorical representations of the fatherland, history and liberty.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

When locals want to see and be seen, they come to Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement. Also located on the Left Bank, the district is the heart of Paris’s café culture and boasts much of its extraordinary literary history. For me, it’s the most essentially Parisian quartier.

The district takes its name from the city’s oldest church, which dates back to the 6th century and houses the tomb of philosopher René Descartes. Also named after the church, the Boulevard Saint-Germain runs parallel to the river through the district and is home to two of the best-known cafés in the city, Café Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore.

Set on opposing corners and both sporting classic French awnings, the two cafés share impressive literary and artistic pedigrees. Writers and thinkers like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre spent their time here, sipping coffee and debating matters of art and philosophy, as did the likes of F Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, James Joyce and Bertolt Brecht.

I always make a point to spend a few hours at one of the tiny tables that spill out from one of these storied cafés. To me, there’s nothing more French than whiling away an afternoon sipping coffee and watching the endless parade of people — harried tourists, chic women in mile-high heels, distracted businessmen staring at their phones, and the occasional celebrity drawn by the area’s reputation.

Tradition dictates that it’s perfectly acceptable to linger at a table for hours, which sometimes means there’s a bit of a wait to get a seat. But the waiters here, in their long white aprons, have always been charming and accommodating. My last visit was during a family trip, and our waiter joked gently with my grandmother and fetched a clean copy of the placemat for her to take home as a souvenir.

The area is also awash with small shops that offer a wide range of sweets and treats. Last time I visited, I took a guided tour of the patisseries and chocolate shops of the Latin Quarter. Among other things, you learn the long and complicated history of how croissants came by their shape and the origin of financiers (springy almond cakes).

I also like to wander through the narrow backstreets, away from the boulevard, and window shop at the designer boutiques. The haute-couture clothing, handmade shoes and elegant cosmetics are unlike anything I ever see in the United States. You can find big names like Armani, Dior and Lauren, as well as avant-garde shops by the likes of Sonia Rykiel. The oldest department store in the city, Le Bon Marché on Rue de Sèvres, sells a wide selection of the city’s crème de la crème in one spot.

Where to stay in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

On a quiet street in the heart of the district, Le Saint is an unassuming hotel tucked behind a classic white limestone façade. The lobby wall is filled with floral arrangements, and guests are invited to choose one for their room when they check in — mine was a simple bunch of white and pink roses. The hotel also has its own scent, custom blended by one of the local perfumers, which permeates the entire building.

Across the river from Saint-Germain-des-Prés and spread out over both the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, Le Marais wasn’t swept up in Haussmann's 19th-century transformation of the city, leaving the area with a more medieval feel than the rest of Paris. Instead of white limestone apartment buildings, the quartier boasts a jumbled collection of modest historical homes and hôtels particuliers (17th-century aristocratic urban mansions).

The narrow streets house some of the city’s most popular art galleries, restaurants and boutiques. Unlike shops in the rest of the city, some of the stores here open on Sunday, drawing lively crowds.

The boutiques aren’t limited to selling just clothing or shoes. I recently took a guided tour of confectioners in the district and was struck by the combination of cutting-edge innovation and respect for tradition.

At one chocolatier, the shopkeeper provided a unique tasting experience. I was with several friends and she demanded to know how adventurous (or not) each of us felt. Then she chose a selection of truffles and arranged them carefully on a small white plate, tailoring each sample to our self-admitted audacity. (I admit, I was somewhere in the middle.) My first bite was dark chocolate with the crunch of almond, a classic combination.

Madame squinted at us, judging our reactions as we finished our first options. She must have decided I was more daring than I’d let on because my next sample was spiked with Japanese whisky. It was an unusual combination, the golden lightness of the whisky practically evaporating on my tongue as the dark smooth chocolate melted down my throat.

Where to stay in Le Marais

Le Pavillon de la Reine  is a boutique hotel located on the Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris. The gabled building is thickly covered in ivy and the courtyard formally arranged with abstract topiaries and tidy grass lawns. Inside, the rooms are lushly appointed with touchable textures — flocked wallpaper, plush carpets and velvet couches — which muffle the noises of the city.

More than almost any other district in Paris, Montmartre retains an identity as a place apart. Located in the 18th arrondissement, high on a hill in the northern part of the city, the quartier was originally filled with vineyards that have, for the most part, been overtaken by urban sprawl. Just one small vineyard remains.

At the turn of the 19th century, many of the Belle Époque’s most renowned artists lived and worked here, including Van Gogh, Monet, Renoir, Toulouse-Lautrec, Mondrian and Picasso. They came for the cheap rents and sweeping views, both provided by the butte (hill) that underlies the area. Their artistic legacy lives on in the Place du Tertre. The cobbled square hosts dozens of artists every day, some of whom set up their easels and work en plein air and others who simply display their work for sale. Strolling through the forest of paintings, caricatures and sketches, you can see the multifarious ways that different artists interpret the same scene. One may draw Notre-Dame with draftsman-like precision while another creates a multi-hued Impressionistic painting.

There are also silhouette artists at work. In just a few minutes, using nothing more than a pair of scissors, a piece of black paper and a discerning eye, an artist I was watching cut out remarkably detailed portraits of passers-by. I wouldn’t have thought you could distinguish someone just from les portraits-ombres (literally ‘shadow portraits’), but the subjects were instantly distinguishable. A brief walk away from the Place du Tertre, the Sacré-Coeur Basilica reigns over Montmartre from Paris’s highest point. You can spot its shining white domes from almost anywhere in the city.

The church was inspired by Byzantine architecture and building started in 1875, intended as penance for the country’s loss of the Franco-Prussian War. It was finally consecrated after World War I, in 1919, and its conservative Catholic roots provide a stark contrast to the secular bohemians who’d settled in the surrounding streets.

A steep spiral staircase leads to the top of the dome, offering a panoramic view of the city that includes the Eiffel Tower in the distance. But even the front steps of the church offer views of Notre-Dame, the Pompidou Centre and the Panthéon.

Where to stay in Montmartre

The rooms at the Terrass” Hotel are chic and modern, but they aren’t the reason why this is one of my preferred places to stay in the city. Instead, it’s the hotel’s namesake rooftop restaurant and terrace, which give you views comparable to those from the Sacré-Coeur. There’s also a bike share station (called Vélib’) across the street, which provides a low-effort way to get down the steep hill.

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THE DISTRICTS OF PARIS - From Montmartre to the Champs-Elysées !

Paris is primarily a magnificent setting : the architectural unity of the capital actually a separate city, and certainly one of the most beautiful in the world! In addition to the great monuments and other sights of Paris, add the multitude of neighborhoods with different decoration, markets, parks and gardens, over-crowded places and deserted places, more connected to the most popular that mark the capital city.

The French capital has a historical heritage among the largest in the world, the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame de Paris, the Louvre Palace, Arc de Triomphe, Pantheon... More than a monument, it's sometimes even a whole neighborhood that serves as postcard, as Montmartre or the Marais, two well-known neighborhoods that make the landscape of Paris.

Paris is also a city of culture with countless museums, from the smallest and unknown to the world famous institution : the Louvre, the Orsay museum, the Quai Branly, Beaubourg, or the exhibition at the Grand Palais. But it is also the fashion capital, Paris has its share of department stores but also with original boutiques for the shopaholics. There are also a host of activities available in all kinds all over the capital. You want a break ? Stop in one of the beautiful parks or Parisian gardens, the Tuileries, Luxembourg... The day comes to an end ? It's time to take advantage of opportunities Paris when it comes out : opera, theater, concerts and shows or bars in recreational areas and in Parisian clubs...

The main districts of Paris

Originally, Paris was divided into four parts, hence the name of "neighborhoods". Today they are 80 administrative districts that Paris is divided into 20 districts that comprise it. Here is a summary of the most picturesque neighborhoods of Paris or the most famous...

THE CHAMPS ELYSEES

The Champs -Élysées is considered by many as the most beautiful avenue of the capital, and, as an expression commonly used in France and mainly by Parisians as the most beautiful avenue in the world. It takes its name from Elysian Fields, the place of Hades where the virtuous souls staying in Greek mythology. It covers almost 2km from the Place de la Concorde to the Place Charles de Gaulle.

essential step of a tour of the capital, the avenue is ideal for stroll at any time of day or night, summer or winter. The Champs Elysees is full of restaurants and bars (Hard Rock Cafe, Ledoyen, Fouquet's...), luxury boutiques (Louis Vuitton, Mont Blanc, Guerlain, Ferrari showroom...), flagship stores of various stores (Banana Republic, Abercrombie, Sephora...), clubs and cinemas. It is also on this avenue that is the famous cabaret Lido de Paris.

THE VILLAGE OF MONTMARTRE

Montmartre is a legend : that needy artists of old, miserable and stunning, which invented everyday art and literature, while qu'estaminets and cafés - concerts greeted the bourgeois came slumming in grisettes arms under the sharp eye of Toulouse-Lautrec. There is not much of that bohemian life, but Montmartre has retained its village look and still remains one of the most charming of all the capital. Stroll along the Sacré Coeur, Abbesses, Barbes, the Place du Tertre

THE LATIN QUARTER - SAINT-MICHEL

The Latin Quarter owes its name to courses that were offered there, 12C. the Revolution in Latin. Countless colleges it is created, and you can still find the Sorbonne, the famous Parisian university, named after its founder. The university vocation has continued to this day and marked the spirit of this district, frequented by a turbulent youth willingly. That is, with its medieval streets, lively place both day and night.

legendary district of Paris, in the 5th district, the setting is exceptional around the Sorbonne, along the Rue des Ecoles and the friendly and lively Rue Mouffetard. See: La Sorbonne, the fountain of St. Michael slaying the demon, the Pantheon, Rue Mouffetard, the Jardin des Plantes, the Arenes de Lutece...

SAINT-GERMAIN-DES-PRES - THE ODEON

In the heart of Paris, the Place Saint-André des Arts in Odeon, going back to the Garden of Luxembourg, you will dive in the chic and trendy Paris. You will find the famous Jardin du Luxembourg, but also the Luxembourg Palace - Senate, the Odeon Theatre, the Pont Neuf, the Pont des Arts, and many cafés such as the Café Flore or from the Café des Deux Magots...

Le Marais is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the capital, it is also one of the trendiest neighborhoods, with many restaurants, cafes, bars, shops, add in several museums.

Place des Vosges, rue des Francs-Bourgeois, the hotels in Soubise, Rohan Salé or plunge us into the 17th and 18th centuries, the time of the absolute monarchy and the Enlightenment. But the present time invested old streets, squares and noble hotels : designer boutiques, art galleries, restaurants and markets are the Marais a particularly lively and trendy.

To see: The Picasso Museum, Place des Vosges, the Carnavalet Museum, the Red Children Market...

LA BUTTE AUX CAILLES

Butte aux Cailles is a picturesque neighborhood in the 13th arrondissement of Paris. It is built on a 62m high hill that overlooked the river Bièvre up that it is done underground in the early twentieth century. A special feature of this area is the lack of large building, this fact is explained by the presence of limestone quarry in the hill, preventing construction of buildings and heavy thus giving the Butte aux Cailles the charm of a village in central Paris.

BELLEVILLE AND MENILMONTANT

For their popular atmosphere, cosmopolitan and artistic. Straddling the 19th and 20th these two districts are discovered lounging. Enjoy the Buttes Chaumont park, down the street from Belle-city, take a look at the Doyenez street, completely graffée, ascend to the Belle City Park...

To Ménilmontant, obligatory passage to Père Lachaise and quoted Aubry, a little carefully hidden treasure, attached to the wall of the cemetery, a tiny Parisian neighborhood which combines craft shops and small houses with gardens.

THE BASTILLE

Place de la Bastille is the regular venue for various events, but especially popular for its many cafes, restaurants, cinemas and nightclubs. You want to go have a drink in the evening ? The trendy box at the Irish Pub through "secret bar " atmosphere prohibition, Rue de Lappe will make you happy !

To see: The July Column and the Bastille Opera.

THE CANAL SAINT MARTIN

Close to the lively Oberkampf district, the channel enjoys a quiet atmosphere for a very romantic setting.

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Guide to the 20 Districts (Arrondissements) in Paris

The city of Paris is divided into a total of 20 districts, each with four quarters. The districts in Paris are called arrondissements.

The 1st arrondissement is the Louvre and it is the city center of Paris, so the most important district in the city. The other Parisian districts are arranged in a clockwise spiral around the 1st arrondissement.

The best districts to stay in Paris are the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 8th, 9th and 18th arrondissements.

In this article we describe all 20 districts in detail.

Before starting, let us remind you that if you are planning your trip to Paris right now, you can benefit from the offers in our official Paris Ticket Shop . We have great handy offers with Skip the Line Entrance Tickets to every important museum in Paris . Enjoy an easy trip to Paris!

Table of Contents

1st Arrondissement Louvre

The heart of Paris lies in the 1st arrondissement. As one of the oldest urban districts, this arrondissement located on the Seine is particularly rich in sights, restaurants, hotels, and shopping opportunities.

The area covers from the Louvre Museum to Vendome Square. Some of the most famous attractions are the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, and the Rue de Rivoli shopping street. The western tip of the Seine Island Île de la Cité   is also located here.

2nd Arrondissement Bourse

The 2nd arrondissement on the Right Bank is the city's smallest district. It was home to the Paris Stock Exchange and is considered the financial center of Paris. Because of its location close to the center and the many hotels, the district is a good place to stay on a city trip.

Visitors can look forward to many cafés with the famous Parisian atmosphere as well as numerous boutiques and arcades. The main tourist attraction is the Paris Opéra .

• Don't forget to visit our selection of 25 affordable 3-star hotels in Paris for a confortable trip to the French capital.

3rd Arrondissement Temple

This district is less characterized by tourist attractions than by its authentic Parisian flair. In the southern area of the 3rd arrondissement lies a part of the popular Marais neighborhood , which is famous for its trendy bars, cafes, designer shops, and art galleries.

Due to its proximity to the center, this quiet district is still a good place to stay. Famous attractions in the district are the Picasso Museum , the Place de la Republique, and impressive mansions.

4th Arrondissement Hôtel de Ville

The vibrant 4th arrondissement is packed with famous tourist attractions, including Notre-Dame Cathedral , City Hall and Centre Pompidou . This historic district is made up of parts of the Marais, Notre-Dame and Latin Quarter  neighborhoods, as well as the Seine Islands Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité .

In addition to sights within walking distance, there is a large number of restaurants, cafés and hotels, making the 4th arrondissement one of the most popular places to stay during a Paris trip .

5th Arrondissement Panthéon

Another popular district is the 5th Arrondissement on the Left Bank. This is where the lively  Quartier Latin  student districts is located, which has developed around the renowned Sorbonne University.

With its winding streets and quaint bistros, it exudes a unique Parisian flair. The main attractions include the Panthéon , the Botanical Garden , and the charming Rue Mouffetard shopping street, which offers culinary highlights with its delicatessen shops, cafés, and restaurants.

• Tip: Get your Audioguide of the Latin Quarter and visit the neighborhood at your own pace by learning all the details about the place.

6th Arrondissement Luxembourg

This area, which is considered the intellectual center of Paris, is very popular with locals. It includes the popular Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood , which still bears witness to the glory of bygone times, when writers and philosophers frequented this area. 

In addition to cultural institutions and art galleries, visitors will also find picturesque cafés and a number of shops. The Jardin du Luxembourg serves as a green lung.

7th Arrondissement Palais Bourbon

The main attraction in the 7th arrondissement is the world-famous Eiffel Tower. In addition, the district on the Left Bank has a number of important museums such as   Musée d‘Orsay ,   Musée du Quai Branly and Musée Rodin . The district is one of the most expensive and posh residential areas in the city.

• To save time, money and avoid hassle, you can prepare for your trip by buying all the online tickets you need in advance in our official Paris Ticket Shop .

8th Arrondissement Élysée

The 8th district is home to the world-known Champs-Élysée Avenue that is lined with luxury shops. Even if the chic district is very touristy and more expensive, the excellent transport connections, the central location and attractions within walking distance make it a great place to stay.

Sights include the Arc of Triumph , Elysée Palace, and Place de la Concorde.

9th Arrondissement Opéra

The 9th arrondissement is best known for the impressive Opéra Garnier . With its large department stores such as Galéries Lafayette, Le Printemps and Nouvelles Galeries, the district particularly attracts shopping enthusiasts.

In the south of the district, on the border with the 18th arrondissement, lies the famous Pigalle entertainment district . Thanks to numerous hotels with a good price/performance ratio, the 9th district is a good place to stay. 

10th Arrondissement Entrepôt

With two train stations, the Gare de l'Est and the Gare du Nord , the 10th arrondissement offers good public transport connections. This is particularly beneficial for visitors arriving by train. The multicultural district is characterized by the approximately 5-kilometer-long Saint Martin Canal , which is ideal for a stroll.

11th Arrondissement Popincourt

This district impresses with its vibrant Parisian nightlife . There are numerous bars and clubs, especially near the Bastille, on Rue de Lappe and on Rue Oberkampf , that locals like to go out to and party. The Parisian youth in particular like to meet in this lively district.

12th Arrondissement Reuilly

The 12th arrondissement on the Right Bank is a bit away from the city center. The quiet district consists mainly of residential areas . From a tourist point of view, it offers little. Thanks to public transport, you can get to the city center easily.

Sights of this district include the Promenade Plantée and the park Bois de Vincennes.

13th Arrondissement Gobelins

Many people of Asian descent have settled in this district, which is why it is characterized by a Far Eastern atmosphere. Numerous Asian restaurants offer culinary delights. The picturesque neighborhood of Butte-aux-Cailles, which attracts visitors with its village charm and its trendy cafés, bars and restaurants, is also worth mentioning.

20 Best Parisian Cafés in Paris

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14th Arrondissement Observatoire

The 14th arrondissement with the famous Montparnasse neighborhood is home to attractions   such as the Catacombs of Paris , the Montparnasse Tower and the Montparnasse Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place of famous French personalities. However, the district is a bit remote from the center.

15th Arrondissement Vaugirard

This district lies in the southwest of Paris. It is rare in sights and therefore less interesting for tourists. The 15th arrondissement is the most populous district and accordingly heavily populated.

16th Arrondissement Passy

The 16th arrondissement, which borders the Eiffel Tower , Champs-Élysée Avenue and Bois de Boulogne park, features a number of green areas. Wealthy Parisians and foreign business people in particular prefer the district as a residential area . Rue de Passy, lined with numerous luxury boutiques, is a popular attraction.

17th Arrondissement Batignolles-Monceau

The 17th arrondissement remote from the city center is currently undergoing a change. The district is becoming increasingly popular, especially with the younger population. The north-eastern area of the district in particular is growing. The Haussmann style mansions are worth seeing.

18th Arrondissement Butte-Montmartre

This very popular district is home to the famous artists' quarter of Montmartre, which delights with its unique historical character.

The imposing Basilica of Sacré-Cœur , an important Parisian landmark, sits on top of the Montmartre hill. Also worth seeing are the Place du Tetre, the Dali Museum, and the Montmartre Cemetery.

In the entertainment district of Pigalle, visitors can visit the world-famous Moulin Rouge . The numerous hotels are particularly suitable for visitors who are looking for entertainment and are not afraid of a little noise.

• Tip:  Get your Audioguide of the Montmartre District and visit the neighborhood at your own pace by learning all the details about the place.

19th Arrondissement Butte-Chaumont

The 19th arrondissement in the north of Paris was once considered an unpleasant district. Now it has turned into an increasingly popular district . Among the most beautiful attractions are Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, built on a quarry, and Parc de la Villette where the Cité des Sciences Museum is located.

20th Arrondissement Ménilmontant

The 20th arrondissement is known for Père-Lachaise Cemetery , where personalities such as Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison are buried. Apart from that, the cosmopolitan district on the east side of Paris is not very touristy and is more a residential area for immigrants.

• Tip:  Get your Audioguide of Père Lachaise Cemetery and visit it at your own pace by learning all the details about the place.

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To discover the most important neighborhoods in Paris, check our following articles...

• Ile de la Cité
• Le Quartier Latin
• Montmartre Quarter
• Le Marais Quarter

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What are the districts in Paris called?

The districts in Paris are called arrondissements. The names of the 20 districts are as follows:

3rd Arrondissement Temple (Marais)

How many districts are in Paris?

The city of Paris is divided into a total of 20 districts - called arrondissements.

What is an arrondissement?

The administrative districts in Paris are called arrondissements. There are a total of 20 arrondissements in Paris. They spiral clockwise from the inside to the outside around the 1st arrondissement Louvre.

Which districts in Paris are dangerous?

As in every big city, there are places in Paris that tourists should avoid. These include:

1. The neighborhoods in the north of Paris such as Barbès-Rochechouart and Chateau Rouge as well as the areas around Marx Dormoy, Porte de la Chapelle, La Chapelle, Porte de Clignancourt, Porte de la Villette - especially at night

2. The area around Les Halles, Chatelet, Stalingrad and Jaures metro stations at night - especially if you are traveling alone

3. The area around the Gare du Nord / Gare de l’Est train stations in the 10th arrondissement - especially at night

4. The two parks Bois de Boulogne and Bois de Vincennes at night

5. The Saint Blaise neighborhood in the 20th arrondissement and the area around Porte de Montreuil station at night

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Le Marais? The Latin Quarter? Our fabulous guided tours are made for you!

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DISCOVERY TOUR OF PARIS

DURATION : 3:00

Everything you do not have to miss of Paris is in this tour. By foot, from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame Cathedral, you will go back in time over the French Capital history. The heart of Paris will reveal his principals’ places and monuments such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysees, the Concorde square, the Louvre or the “Ile de la Cité” (City Island). This promenade is perfect to explore and enjoy the typical Parisian atmosphere.

RECOMMENDED TOUR(S)

LATIN QUARTER

DURATION : 2:00

This tour leads to the origins of Paris. From Lutecia’s arenas, ancient Gallo-Roman name of the city, you will go down one of the seven hills of Paris until the City Island surround by the Seine river, original birthplace. The latin quarter is one of the most lively district. It is teeming with students from the Sorbon university, but also joggers in the Luxembourg garden or even some curious people fascinated by the Pantheon or the Cluny Roman bath.

Le Marais (or “Swamp” neighborhood) is one of the most emblematic districts of Paris. All along this tour, you will discover the first defensive wall of Paris ruins, the first church with a dome of France, the first public square of France. You will also enjoy the old “village” Saint-Pol of le Marais and a couple of typical Parisian private mansions from the 16 th and 17 th centuries. However, in the Marais we most of all like its art of living “à la française” between boutiques and bistros.

There isn’t more famous neighborhood than Montmartre in Paris. The 19 th century bohemian artists made it legendary thanks to their parties in cheap cafes or in cabarets “de la butte”. Our tour leads you from the Moulin Rouge cabaret to the Sacre Coeur basilica (Sacred Heart) to explore this untouched historical village where the vineyard stands alongside bistros and Tertre square painters.

THE ISLANDS

This tour brings you to explore the City island first living place for the parisii and French kings as the Conciergerie and Sainte-Chapel are proofs of. You will discover the oldest bridge of Paris, Pont Neuf (new bridge), and the majestic cathedral of Notre Dame before walking to the cute Saint-Louis Island as well. It probably is the cutest place of the city where you can eat the best ice creams from Berthillon house.

HAPPY BERCY, FROM VINEYARD TO GARDEN 

DURATION  : 2:00

Bercy is a lovely and bucolic tour out of Paris bitten-paths. Once it welcomed a palace, then this place became step by step Paris wine market! Mythical beverage in France, balls and "guinguettes" (open-air ball) peopled this place where to have fun. Nowadays, a vineyard is left from this past but  mostly a park built to enlighten Bercy heritage and its new modernity. Follow our guided tour to explore an expected place in Paris, quiet  green, and festive!

MONTPARNASSE AND THE ROARING TWENTIES 

The Montparnasse tour is full of characters, anecdotes and places. Montparnasse was the most attractive district of Paris for painters, photographers, writers or sculptors in the interwar-years. In a burning fervor of enjoying life this generation did parties, created and loved. Your tour guide will bring the Roaring Twenties back to life through Kiki of Montparnasse, queen of the neighborhood, Man Ray, the genius photographer, Foujita the Japanese painter, or Hemingway, the American leader of the “Lost Generation”, ‘s lives and so many others in a turbulence of extravagance!

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Paris walking tours

Journey through Olympic history in the heart of Paris

A walk from the Place de la Concorde to the Eiffel Tower, with commentary by guide Tristan Bayle, to plunge into the heart of Paris Olympic history.

Sing'In Montmartre

The guide and singer Anne-Sophie Guerrier brings you on a musical journey through Montmartre. This visit will retrace the life of famous singers who lived in the neightborhood : Édith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Jacques Brel, Dalida...

Les secrets de Paris à mobylette

Parcourez les rues parisiennes au guidon d'une ancienne mobylette, restaurée et convertie à l'électrique et (re)découvrez l'histoire de Paris et ses quartiers-villages sous cet angle insolite ! 

Walking Tour of the Jewish Marais

Join le Marais historic district guided walking tour to discover Paris Jewish culture past and present.

Midnight in Paris movie tour

Join Juliette Dubois on her movie-themed Ciné-Balade tour of the Latin Quarter and discover the locations that inspired Woody Allen for his film ‘Midnight in Paris’. Travel back to the Paris of the Roaring Twenties!

Pantin, renewal and gentrification: the new Brooklyn?

Let's guide you through the streets of Pantin, the new Parisian Brooklyn, where the resident types mutations go along with the building brands transformations. 

The Parisian Chinatown

Discover the Chinatown district of the south of Paris with this guided tour. You will learn many things about Asian community of Paris : temples, food, usages.

Historical Guided Tour within hôtels particuliers of the Île de la Cité and the Île Saint-Louis in Paris

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the captivating aventure of Paris's historic treasures during an exclusive guided tour of the Ile de la Cité and the Ile Saint-Louis, with a passionate guide from L’Echappée Belle, who will reveal the secrets and fascinating history behind each iconic monument and hôtel particulier (private mansion).

The Paris Marais: the birthplace of parisian private mansions

Explore the elegant essence of Paris's Marais district on a captivating guided tour, by L'Echappée Belle, of its sumptuous hôtels particuliers. 

Parisian Père Lachaise cemetery: in the kingdom of celebrities

L'Echappée Belle will take you through the graves of renowned figures of this famous cemetery, a parisian relaxing place in the shade of the big trees.

Secret Montmartre

Guillaume Le Roux reveals the secrets of Montmartre, during this Paris guided walk off the beaten track.

The real name of South Pigalle is La Nouvelle Athènes

Discover Nouvelle Athènes, a neo classical quarter of Paris. A lot of people know Montmartre and its hill, Pigalle and its neon lights, but rare are those who took the time to explore this part of the 9th arrondissement of Paris extending from place Pigalle to the Notre Dame de Lorette Church.

Arabic street food & historical tour

Gourmet Barbès! Paris is not only a classic representation of luxury and pure French tradition. The capital has always been a melting pot of different cultures from all over the world which makes Paris a unique city.

Belleville : Télégraphe, Place des Fêtes, Mouzaïa, Buttes Chaumont

From Télégraphe to the Buttes Chaumont, the 19th arrondissement is probably one of the most popular neighborhoods of Paris. Come take a look at its history and its transformations during this walking tour with Le Vrai Paris!

Street Art tour in Paris Belleville

Discover the history and culture of graffiti in the 20th arrondissement of Paris in Belleville and Ménilmontant, two popular neighborhoods made for urban and artistic expression.

Street art tour: the murals of Paris’s 13th arrondissement

Take a street art tour in the south of Paris and discover murals and graffiti painted by renowned international artists including Obey, Inti, C215, and Seth.

The French Revolution in the Paris Marais

With your guide from Interkultur, dive into the tumult of the French Revolution in Paris, where every stone in the Marais harbours the secrets of an era seething with ideals and revolt.

Occupation and Liberation of Paris, from1940 to 1944

Relive the period that marked French history 80 years ago, and immerse yourself in the historical and political context of the Occupation of Paris in the 20th century, on this unforgettable guided tour. The price of the visit (100€) includes two participants.

Bucolic Paris: the charming Saint-Martin Canal

Get off the beaten track in the historic centre of Paris and follow our guide for a bucolic stroll along the Canal Saint-Martin.

Ciné-balade, guided walking tour in Montmartre in the footsteps of your favorite movies

During this ciné-balade (a movie-themed guided walk) in Montmartre, Juliette Dubois will tell you anecdotes and facts about the film industry in this famous Parisian district, the most filmed of the capital. 

Birdwatching in Paris - Buttes Chaumont Park

Come and see the unique urban bird life living in the dramatically landscaped Parc des Buttes Chaumont, in north-eastern Paris.

Eiffel Tower Movie tour

Let’s dive for two hours into the history of the cinema around the Eiffel Tower, the star among the stars, and the district of Passy.

Food & History in Chinatown

Visit the Chinatown district in the south of Paris and learn about Paris’s East Asian community: temples, food and customs. Guided tour includes tastings of Asian food and ends in a restaurant.

Art route at Paris Père Lachaise cemetery: in the footsteps of the great masters

Join us on this two-hour tour to discover the poets, writers, musicians and painters in their final resting place, the Père-Lachaise cemetery.

An artistic stroll: discovering artists at Paris Montparnasse cemetery

Welcome to our guided tour of Montparnasse Cemetery, a place steeped in history and emotion where great artists rest in peace. Join us for a captivating exploration of this sanctuary of creativity and memory. 

Paris through the lens of François Truffaut

During this movie-walk on the tracks of François Truffaut's films, Juliette Dubois will take you to the director's favorite neighborhood, in the 9th arrondissement and on the borders of the 18th arrondissement of Paris.

Jean-Luc Godard movie tour

During this film walk in the footsteps of Jean-Luc Godard's films, Juliette Dubois will take you through the director's favorite neighborhoods, from the Luxembourg Gardens to Saint-Michel and the Sorbonne.

Agnès Varda movie tour

Come enjoy a movie tour in Paris Montparnasse in the footsteps of Agnès Varda, a famous Frenco-Belgian actor-director, filmmaker and screenwriter, with this cine-balade by Juliette Dubois.

Père-Lachaise movie tour

This original Paris guided tour by Juliette Dubois of Cine-Balade will show you the Père-Lachaise cemetery in a new light: you will discover the tombstones and the stories of many of the most famous French filmmakers and actors.

Ciné-Balade Musicals and romantic movies

Discover the romantic side of Paris through the eyes of filmmakers on this tour led by Juliette Dubois of Cine-Balade.

Montreuil and Méliès movie tour

Follow Juliette Dubois of Cine-Balade through the streets of Montreuil, located close to downtown Paris, to discover the stages where Georges Méliès and other filmmakers shot films, from the pioneering to the contemporary.

Paris Flea market movie tour

Between the stalls, the sellers and the antique hunters, come and discover the Saint-Ouen flea market from a cinematographic perspective during this Cinébalade by Juliette Dubois!

Gourmet and history tour in Sceaux

Visit this little city of the south suburb of Paris. Enjoy his fresh food market and delicatessen shops of the pedestrian city center, discover the 17th century park designed by André Le Nôtre and his historical legacy with Corinne Jager!

Historical guided tour of Montmartre

Thanks to a guided tour that follows the Montmartre hill towards the rue de Clignancourt before starting its ascent and descent, discover the stories of the popular and working-class Montmartre with local guide Anouk Colombani.

Latin quarter: the soul of Paris

Discover the latin quarter as you've never seen it before! Between tradition and modernity, follow your guide: he has a lot to teach you. 

The charming village of "la Butte aux Cailles" and its strong social heritage

During this 2 hours-walking tour, Le Vrai Paris takes you to stroll through this picturesque Parisian neighbourhood, which feels like a charming village. La Butte-aux-Caille has a lot to teach you about Paris's history!

Going on a (free) walking tour in Paris and its most cosmopolitan districts is a fun and original way to visit Paris. You can discover neighborhoods though the prism of street-art , movies , architecture, history, art , traditions and myth and heroes. 

Go on a walking tour in Paris and discover its Indian, Chinese, North African and Subsaharan African communities among others. Discover new traditions, customs, cultures and cuisines  with a passionate guide.

During your Parisian stroll you'll discover the Grand Paris with its new districts springing up every day, and its old neighborhoods being rehabilitated to accommodate eco-neighborhoods, new tramways, metro and train stations and of course the future Olympic sites. You can also choose walks in the sightpleaseing, not to be missed districts of Paris like Montmartre, Pigalle, Opéra and the Grands Boulevards.

You will have access to the backstage of the major cities of the Parisian region with technical visits of the locks and the Parisian canals. You'll also have access to big business hubs such as La Défense, trade markets (Saint-Denis, Rungis) and administrative sites such as the Nouveau tribunal de Paris

Our Paris urban walks in small groups allow visitors to enjoy a human-scale visit where they can ask questions while discovering the story behind working class neighborhoods in Paris and its region such as Montreuil, Ivry-sur-seine, Belleville-Ménilmontant, Barbès, la Goutte-d'or or even Pigalle among others. 

You can also  visit Paris as a family  or enjoy free visits of Paris and its region .

Best Districts of Paris in 1 Day – Private Tour

In a city known for its endless charms and allure, selecting the ‘best’ districts of Paris for a single-day private tour might seem like a whimsical task. However, as the sun rises over the Seine, an expertly crafted itinerary unveils a carefully curated selection of Parisian gems waiting to be discovered.

From the bustling streets of Le Marais to the artistic aura of the Latin Quarter, each district offers a unique tapestry of history , culture , and gastronomy. But what truly sets this tour apart is not just the destinations visited, but the immersive experiences and local insights that promise to transform a mere visit into an unforgettable journey.

• Discover hidden gems and historical landmarks in quieter morning hours.
• Indulge in Michelin-starred or classic French cuisine for lunchtime delights.
• Explore neighborhoods like Le Marais and Montmartre for afternoon adventures.
• Experience the romantic charms of Paris through evening Seine River cruises and nighttime strolls .

Here's some more nearby activities we've reviewed

• Catacombs of Paris Semi-Private VIP Restricted Access Tour
• Belleville Street Art Tour With an Artist
• French Baking Class: Baguettes and Croissants in a Parisian Bakery
• Paris in a Day With Louvre, Eiffel Tower, City Walk & Cruise

Itinerary Highlights

Exploring the vibrant districts of Paris in just one day offers a whirlwind adventure through iconic landmarks and hidden gems alike. Among the top attractions not to miss is the majestic Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris known worldwide for its beauty and grandeur.

Visitors can also wander through the charming streets of Montmartre, home to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica and a hub for artists and performers. For those seeking hidden gems, the quaint Le Marais district provides a blend of historic architecture, trendy boutiques , and delicious cafes off the beaten path.

Exploring these highlights in a day allows travelers to experience the essence of Paris, from its famous landmarks to its lesser-known treasures.

Morning Exploration

Begin your day of discovery in Paris by enjoying the enchanting ambiance of the city as the morning light gently illuminates the picturesque streets and landmarks. To make the most of your morning exploration, consider the following:

Local Cuisine : Start your day with a delicious croissant or pain au chocolat from a neighborhood bakery.

Hidden Gems : Wander off the beaten path to discover charming cafes or boutique shops tucked away in quaint alleyways.

Historical Landmarks : Visit iconic sites like the Louvre or Notre Dame in the quieter morning hours for a more intimate experience.

Scenic Views : Head to Montmartre or the Seine River to enjoy breathtaking views of the city awakening to a new day.

Paris is full of surprises waiting to be uncovered in the early hours of the morning.

Lunchtime Delights

Indulge in a variety of delectable culinary offerings during your lunchtime exploration in Paris, savoring the diverse flavors and aromas that characterize the city’s vibrant food scene. Paris is renowned for its exquisite French cuisine , offering a delightful dining experience that combines tradition with innovation. Check out some recommended lunch spots below:

Each of these establishments provides a unique taste of French gastronomy, ensuring a memorable and delicious lunchtime experience.

Afternoon Adventures

As the afternoon unfolds in Paris, visitors can enjoy a myriad of captivating experiences that showcase the city’s rich history and vibrant culture .

Exploring neighborhoods : Wander through the charming streets of Le Marais or the artistic enclave of Montmartre.

Hidden gems: Discover local boutiques in the trendy Canal Saint-Martin district or stumble upon quaint cafes in the Latin Quarter.

Historic sites: Visit the Panthéon to learn about France’s great thinkers or explore the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens.

Cultural immersion: Attend a small art gallery in Belleville or enjoy live music at a jazz club in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

These adventures offer a unique glimpse into the heart of Paris, revealing its diverse tapestry of sights and sounds.

Cultural Immersion

Enjoy the vibrant cultural scene of Paris by exploring local art galleries and attending live music performances in charming neighborhoods. Dive into language immersion through interactions with locals, enhancing your understanding of French culture.

Engage in culinary experiences by sampling traditional French dishes at quaint cafes or bustling markets. Appreciate art at renowned museums like the Louvre or explore hidden gems showcasing local artists.

Discover historical landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral or the Palace of Versailles, delving into the rich history of Paris. Cultural immersion in Paris offers a multi-faceted experience, blending art , history, language , and cuisine to provide a deeper understanding of this enchanting city.

Evening Charms

As the sun sets over the picturesque cityscape of Paris, the Evening Charms of the vibrant metropolis begin to unfold, offering a magical ambiance of lights and lively activities to enchant visitors. Nighttime strolls in Paris reveal hidden gems that captivate the senses:

Seine River Cruise: Enjoy a romantic boat ride along the Seine, passing iconic landmarks illuminated against the night sky.

Montmartre: Wander the cobblestone streets of Montmartre, discovering charming cafes , street artists , and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

Latin Quarter: Explore the Latin Quarter’s narrow alleys and bustling squares, filled with lively bars, jazz clubs , and authentic French bistros.

Eiffel Tower Sparkle: Witness the Eiffel Tower’s mesmerizing sparkle show every hour, a dazzling display not to be missed.

Insider Tips

For travelers seeking a more authentic Parisian experience, seasoned visitors recommend delving into the lesser-known districts of the city to uncover hidden gems and local favorites. When exploring Paris in a day, it’s essential to gather insider tips to make the most of your visit. Here are some local recommendations to enhance your experience:

Tour Inclusions

Discover the enriching inclusions awaiting you on this unique Parisian adventure.

• Knowledgeable local guide providing insights into Parisian history and culture
• Private transportation throughout the day for a comfortable experience
• Entrance tickets to iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum
• Delicious French lunch at a charming local restaurant

Tour exclusions :

• Personal expenses such as souvenirs or additional snacks
• Gratuities for the guide and driver (optional but appreciated)
• Additional costs for any activities or purchases not specified in the itinerary
• Hotel pickup and drop-off services (available at an extra charge)

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• Private Guided Professional Photoshoot by the Eiffel Tower

Common questions

Is there a minimum or maximum number of participants required for booking this private tour in paris.

For booking this private tour in Paris, there are no specific minimum or maximum group size requirements noted. This allows for flexibility in accommodating solo travelers seeking exclusivity or larger groups looking for a tailored experience.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees That Are Not Included in the Initial Price of the Tour Package?

Additional fees or hidden costs may apply outside the initial price of the private tour package. Tour exclusions and extra charges , related to meals , entrance fees , or additional activities , should be checked to ensure a complete understanding of expenses.

Can the Itinerary Be Customized to Include Specific Attractions or Activities That Are Not Listed in the Standard Itinerary Highlights?

Customization options for the private tour include tailoring the itinerary to specific attractions or activities not listed in the standard highlights. Travelers can enjoy exclusive experiences by personalizing their tour to suit their preferences.

What Is the Policy Regarding Changes or Modifications to the Tour Schedule Once It Has Been Confirmed and Booked?

Tour schedule flexibility is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Viator offers a comprehensive tour modification policy that allows changes to the itinerary post-booking. This ensures travelers can adjust plans as needed, providing peace of mind and convenience.

Are There Any Restrictions or Limitations on Photography, Filming, or Recording During the Tour?

Photography regulations during tours are common for preserving privacy and intellectual property. Filming restrictions may apply in certain locations. Recording limitations ensure a smooth tour experience. Following tour guidelines guarantees a respectful and enjoyable trip for everyone.

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Experience the magic of Paris in just one day with the ‘Best Districts of Paris in 1 Day – Private Tour’.

From the historic charm of Montmartre to the iconic sights of the Eiffel Tower, this tour offers a unique and personalized exploration of the City of Light.

Enjoy the culture, cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere of Paris with expert guidance and insider tips.

Don’t miss this unforgettable journey through the best districts of Paris!

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Best districts of Paris in 1 Day - Private Tour

• Local guide
• There will be several lunch options on the way of our tour, and it will be entirely up to you to decide where you want to have lunch
• 37 Bd Saint-Germain, 75005 Paris, France
• 22 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, France
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not recommended for travelers with back problems
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
• This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
• Latin Quarter

Similar experiences

• You'll start at 37 Bd Saint-Germain 37 Bd Saint-Germain, 75005 Paris, France See address & details
• 1 Latin Quarter Stop: 100 minutes See details
• 2 Le Marais Stop: 2 hours See details
• 3 Montmartre Stop: 100 minutes See details
• You'll end at Abbesses 22 Rue des Abbesses, 75018 Paris, France See address & details

• F7656WMserenas 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A unique Parisian experience The tour was really interesting and informative; Quentin was really nice and it was easy to communicate with him. I already knew Paris pretty well but Quentin guided us to so many hidden places and told us a lot of fascinating anecdotes that i came away with an even richer vision of this beautiful city. Totally reccomended!!! Thank you Quentin :) Read more Written October 17, 2022
• josefernandot284 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Captivating tour with a local ! Great knowledge on the city, Quentin took us to some of the most beautiful and unknown places in Paris (he showed me some hide cool places that no guidebook talks about). I recommend very much. Read more Written October 15, 2022
• christinesG7929VT 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic Tour What a great tour!! Quentin was so easy to work with prior to our tour; he contacted me in advance to ask what our goals for the tour were and to tailor it to what we wanted. He also followed up before the tour, and ensured that we had is contact info, which was helpful as we were directionally challenged and couldn't find the meeting spot. The tour was four hours with a lot of walking (which we enjoy) and we saw so many beautiful sites that on our own we would have just passed by without knowing what we were seeing. It was also nice that we were able to take on two separate areas of the city on the same tour. He was very personable and easy to chat with and I will recommend taking a tour with him if this is your first time in Paris, or if like us this is a returning trip and you want to get more out of the city. Thank you for a great experience Quentin! Read more Written September 29, 2022
• cscsabee 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best Montmartre experience I had a great tour with Quentin when visiting Montmartre last year. He is a cool guy who for sure loves his city and does his best to make you enjoy it too. I am not always satisfied with tours but this one is definitely a good one! Read more Written March 3, 2020
• joyo832 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The perfect Montmartre guide We did this tour some weeks ago and this was a wonderful one! Our guide Quentin was excellent, and being originally from Paris he had so much to share with us and helped us to really understand more about this amazing city. We would highly recommend to book this private tour. Read more Written March 2, 2020
• 645_ukaszk 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Romantic trip for the anniverasary This was a surprise for my wife and trust me - it was a great one ! Quenting was a great host! Even though I've been to Paris before, seen Marais, I've never visited it this way - he made it a brand new experience, joy elevated higher than the Eiffel Tower :) . Totally can recommend ! Read more Written February 27, 2020
• amaroulis 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Montmartre with a local Great experience and amazing guide! If you are looking for a local to show you all the hidden spots in Montmartre, this tour is what you need. It lasted for 2 hours and the guide was doing everything to help us understand how Montmartre was at the beginning and how it evolved over the years. We also got some very nice photos of us thanks to him. Both my girlfriend and I recommend to book this tour! Read more Written February 22, 2020
• Stein_SashaNJ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 2 hours in Montmartre We booked this private tour to discover Montmartre because it was recommended by our concierge. Quentin, our guide, was so nice and knowledgeable. My children also really liked the tour. This is a great one to book if you plan to discover Montmartre! Read more Written February 18, 2020
• heinczili 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great morning tour in Montmartre My boyfriend and I did this private tour when we visited Paris last summer. The guide was friendly and passionate. It was very interesting to get to know more about the life of artists such as Picasso and Van Gogh when they were living in Montmartre. Very good tour overall! Read more Written February 16, 2020
• icbmc 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to discover the Latin Quarter My husband and I visited Paris last autumn. We booked with My Paris Insider because a friend recommended it to us. The guide, Quentin, was nice and knew the area perfectly. He could answer all our questions and actually made the visit really interesting. He also showed real flexibility when we made a specific request regarding where we would like to end the visit. Read more Written February 15, 2020
• Stan_Maz 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Excellent tour in Montmartre This is a very interesting and informative private tour of Montmartre area. Quentin showed us the hidden and non touristy Montmartre, and then at the end took us to the very beautiful basilica. This is the best way to discover this amazing neighborhood. My kids, my wife and I enjoyed it a lot. Read more Written February 14, 2020
• Leo_111_us 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles The best of Montmartre in 2 hours My family and I were in Paris last week. We booked this tour thanks to a friend and it was absolutely the right choice. Quentin loves Paris and knows everything about Montmartre. Our children also enjoyed the tour (they are 14 and 11). He additionally took a lot of very nice photos of us! Read more Written February 13, 2020
• estephanie289 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Perfect way to get to know the real Paris! My family and I booked this two days tour with when we went to Paris last November. Having studied abroad in Europe and visited Paris once before, I had only seen the basic touristy places with no real expert explanation. My family had similar experiences in Paris as well. We had "seen it" but didn't get to know it. We took the opportunity in November to not just see it but experience it the way a Parisian would. In order to make that happen, we needed a true Parisian to show us the ins and outs. Our friends recommended Quentin's tour for us and we set up a call with him to get his suggestions. He was super nice and flexible. He really listened to us and told us what could actually be achieved during the two day tour. It sounded perfect because it allowed us a balance of our own exploration along with getting to know the city with a local. When we finally got to Paris, Quentin did his best to make us feel very welcome and was really just the best guide we could have asked for. Both days he picked us up at our hotel to begin the tour. He shared his all his knowledge, answered all of our pesky questions gracefully and really helped us understand Parisian history and modern life today. Highly recommend if you really want an understanding guide who will show you the true Paris! Read more Written February 7, 2020
• szucs_csalad 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Good tour for families I did this tour with my husband and my children. We learned a lot about Paris and the Latin Quarter. The guide is good and involves the children. We are extremely happy with the tour. Read more Written February 5, 2020
• saranshchaudhary 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Paris at its best!! This private tour in the Latin Quarter is an excellent way to get to know the historic city of Paris. Quentin, the guide, was knowledgeable, flexible and kind. It is obvious that he loves Paris and his passion and enthusiasm makes you fall in love with the city. This one is a must on your Paris itinerary. Read more Written January 30, 2020

More to explore in Paris

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Best districts of Paris in 1 Day - Private Tour provided by My Paris Insider

12 Most Beautiful Neighborhoods Of Paris You Should Explore

Want to explore Paris beyond the famous monuments, this post will show you the most charming neighborhoods of Paris to visit to get a deeper understanding of the city.

From visiting the world-famous Louvre museum to climbing the iconic Eiffel Tower , there’s no shortage of things to do in Paris , but if you’re looking for a more relaxed and intimate experience, I recommend exploring some of the city’s charming neighborhoods.

From the Grand boulevards of the Right Bank to the charming streets of Montmartre, these neighborhoods in Paris will help you discover Paris beyond the surface.

Disclaimer:  This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our  full disclosure here  for more details!

Each of these Paris neighborhoods possesses a unique vibe and lifestyle, impressive landmarks, and a certain charm that sets it apart from the rest.

While some of them offer intricate history, a few are well-known for their modern flair and charm while others are what you’d call “Boho”. You will find some of the city’s rarest jewels in these Parisian neighborhoods.

So, while you’re in the French capital, use this list of the best neighborhoods to visit in Paris, and explore the city of love in a way you’ve never done before.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Best Neighborhoods of Paris

From the beloved Montmartre village to the Latin Quarter, here is a brief Paris neighborhood guide to help you discover the must-visit areas of Paris and the reasons why you should visit them.

1. Montparnasse, 14th Arrondissement

Ever since Montparnasse became a part of Paris in 1669, it has been cherished and turned into an artistic hub by famous French writers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and other prominent figures like Ernest Hemingway and Pablo Picasso.

Today, it is well known for the alluring Montparnasse Tower (which offers stunning views of Paris when climbed) and Montparnasse Train station .

Wherever you look around in this neighborhood, you will find historic art studios, traditional cafes, and bars but the highlights of your visit to Montparnasse will be the Paris Catacombs , an underground tunnel that houses thousands of skulls and bones, and the Cimetière de Montparnasse (Montparnasse Cemetery), which is the second-largest cemetery in Paris.

Furthermore, there are several local eateries that have retained their old charm where you can enjoy some mouth-watering meals. The delicious Breton-style crêperies and traditional bistros will steal your heart while in Montparnasse.

Plan your visit to Montparnasse

Where to eat in Montparnasse: For French authentic foods , try out these restaurants: La Coupole, La Closerie des Lilas, Le Select or La Crêperie de Josselin for the best crêpes in Paris.

Where to stay in Montparnasse: Hôtel Odessa Montparnasse (A budget hotel near the subway and has clean and comfortable rooms), Hôtel Le M (a mid-range hotel near a theatre and restaurants and has spacious rooms), Pullman Paris Montparnasse (a Luxury Hotel that offers a stunning view of Paris), or this Quiet House rental (a large House rental with a beautiful terrace).

Get your tickets ready: While in this Parisian neighborhood, be sure to visit the Catacombs by buying this skip-the-line ticket with an audio guide. Alternatively, you can book this Catacombs guided tour to learn more about the underground city of Paris and get access to areas that can only be accessed with a guide.

Related post: Where to stay in Paris (Detailed Guide)

2. Latin Quarter, 5th and 6th Arrondissements

The Latin Quarter is the city’s oldest district and dates back to the 1st century.

Home to the great Parisian University ( Paris City University ) and other scholarly establishments like Sorbonne University whose history dates back to 1257, Panthéon-Assas University , and others, it is one of the most popular student neighborhoods of Paris.

Latin was a widely spoken language by students and teachers during the middle ages when Sorbonne University opened and that’s how this historic neighborhood got named the Latin Quarter .

Though this area is packed with educational facilities, there is still a number of places to visit in the Latin Quarter . From the impressive buildings that haven’t lost their old charm, and museums, to cute cafes.

Explore the gorgeous Musée Curie , a scientific museum with the preservations of Marie Curie’s experiments and other radiological research.

If you want to learn more about medieval art and the middle ages, make sure to check out the exemplary Musée Cluny and the Pantheon which is the final resting place for prominent figures in French history.

You can stroll around the vibrant market streets and buy some books at the iconic Shakespeare & Co which is one of the best English bookstores in Paris .

And if you want to take a break from sightseeing, chill at  Jardin des Plantes , or visit one of these famous Parisian churches , Saint-Etienne du Mont, or Eglise Saint-Sulpice . Don’t miss the Grande Mosquée de Paris as well as it’s one of the biggest mosques in the country.

Plan your visit to the Latin Quarter

Where to eat in the Latin Quarter: Odette Paris — this is one of the cutest cafes in Paris , Le Bistro Des Augustins, or Le Polidor. You can also check out my complete list of the best restaurants in the Latin Quarter .

Where to stay in the Latin Quarter : Hotel des Carmes (A budget hotel located near all the highlights of the neighborhood), Hôtel Albe Saint Michel ( a Mid-range hotel in the heart of the Latin Quarter), Hotel La Lanterne (a Luxury hotel with an indoor swimming pool and fitness room), or this lovely apartment ( a stylish and bright apartment rental in the center of the neighborhood). Alternatively, you can check out my complete list of the best hotels in the Latin Quarter .

Get your tickets ready: To fully learn about the Latin Quarter, I recommend taking this walking tour that will take you through all the attractions in the neighborhood while giving you facts and historical details about them.

3. Le Marais, 3rd and 4th Arrondissements

Le Marais is chic, hippie, fashionable, and probably one of the best Parisian neighborhoods to visit.

Notably, this district is home to many private mansions and museums, lively bars and cafes, and household fashion brands.

Hôtel de Ville and Musée Picasso are a few impeccable examples of the best places to visit in Le Marais , but you can extend your visit by exploring some of the best Parisian museums in the neighborhood like Musée Carnavalet to learn the history of Paris, the Pompidou Centre to admire contemporary art, Maison de Victor Hugo and many others.

You can also roam around or relax at Place des Vosges to enjoy the beauty of its luscious green surroundings and red-brick building.

Despite holding a rich heritage history, Le Marais is a hub of fashion houses, hip galleries, and various trendy restaurants. Head over to L’As du Fallafel & Pozzetto to enjoy the best falafel and ice creams in the district. 

Plan Your Visit To Le Marais

Where to eat in Le Marais: Go Les Pinces for seafood, Au Bourguignon du Marais or Les Philosophes for traditional French foods , or Café Charlot. You can also check out my complete list of the best restaurants in Le Marais .

Where to stay in Le Marais : Hotel Rivoli (Budget hotel), Hotel Bastille Speria (Mid-range hotel), Hôtel Le Presbytère (Luxury hotel), or this Large duplex studio (Apartment rental).

Get your tickets ready: To best prepare for your visit to Le Marais, get yourself this skip-the-line ticket to Pompidou Centre to get access to both the permanent and temporary exhibits and this entry ticket to Picasso Museum . You can also sign up for this Le Marais food walking tour to understand Paris’ food, or join this Le Marais walking tour to learn more about the history of the neighborhood.

4. La Villette, 19th Arrondissement

Situated in the northwestern part of Paris, the famous La Villette is a stunning example of modern architecture and Parisian culture .

The neighborhood is an astonishing blend of French Boheminisiam and Parisian cosmopolitan traditions.

Famously known because of La Villette Park and Bassin de la Villette , the largest artificial lake in Paris, this neighborhood is the go-to for music and art lovers in Paris.

The park hosts most of the city’s biggest well-known music concerts and festivals including the Cinéma en Plein Air (outdoor movie).

It also has a number of museums and concert halls including the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie  ( City of Science and Industry) , which is one of the biggest science museums in Europe , Cité de la Musique , Grande Halle de la Villette , La Géode (a unique mirror-finished geodesic dome movie theatre), and so many other cool attractions.

The Rotonde de La Villette is another prominent attraction with the most imposing design of a “propylaea”. Also, take some time to visit the Philharmonie de Paris and witness its spectacular structure.

Whether you spend your time walking along the Bassin de la Villette (or even cruise on it) or participating in the various events in the Park, La Villette is the best neighborhood in Paris to enjoy various artistic and cultural events, especially if you visit Paris in the summer .

Plan Your Visit To La Villette

Where to eat in La Villette: Café Odilon, Le Pavillon des Canaux, or BoBun Flandre.

Where to stay in La Villette : Reims Hotel (Budget hotel), Holiday Inn Express Paris-Canal De La Villette, an IHG Hotel (Mid-range hotel located at the banks of Bassin de la Villette), or this Charming loft with terrace (Apartment rental).

Get your tickets ready: Book this Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie entry ticket to see interesting science exhibitions.

5. Montmartre, 18th Arrondissement

Montmartre is a 130m (430ft) high hill located on the right bank of the Seine in the 18th arrondissement. It is one of the most charming neighbourhoods of Paris offering an artistic and romantic vibe.

Every street and corner you turn is as charming as the previous one. From pretty cobblestoned Parisian streets and cute cafes to famous landmarks, there is nothing not to love in Montmartre.

Being an artsy neighborhood, famous painters like Pablo Picasso , Vincent van Gogh , and Toulouse-Lautrec once called it home.

You’ll also find various street artists, especially at Place du Tertre . You can even get painted to have the perfect souvenir from Paris.

Besides strolling its streets, enjoying the views of Paris, and dining at popular cafes like Le Consulat or La Maison Rose which have become popular Instagram spots in Paris , be sure to stop at Sacre Coeur , Moulin Rouge (or to even watch a cabaret), Espace Dalí , and the Wall of love .

Every turn in Montmartre provides something worth stopping for that it can take you the entire day to explore this beautiful Parisian neighborhood. I may be biased since it’s my favorite neighborhood, but i truly belief it’s the most beautiful in Paris.

Plan Your Visit To Montmartre

Where to eat in Montmartre: Sacrée Fleur, Le Consulat, La Taverne de Montmartre, or L’ Anvers du Décor. Alternatively, you can check out my complete list of the best Montmartre restaurants .

Where to stay in Montmartre : Caulaincourt Montmartre by Hiphophostels (clean and cozy budget hostel with dorms and private rooms), Hotel de Flore (a mid-range hotel located on the famous rue Lamark), Terrass” Hotel (a Luxury hotel with stunning views of the Eiffel Tower), or this Charming apartment (an apartment rental with a garden view). You can out this list of the best hotels in Montmartre if none of the above caught your attention.

Get your tickets ready: To get the most out of your visit to Montmartre, I recommend opting for one of these tours. This 2-hour Montmartre walking tour will take you through all the attractions I’ve mentioned above. If you love cheese and wine, book this 3–Hour Montmartre Cheese, Wine, and Pastry Tour instead. And when night comes, be sure to watch the most fun cabaret show in Paris but book this Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show Ticket with Champagne in advance or this one if you want to enjoy the show with dinner.

Related post: Romantic things to do in Paris for couples

6. South Pigalle, 9th Arrondissement

Though it was always considered the naughtiest place in Paris where shops were rather focused on the adult side of things, it has evolved into a trendy setter for Paris’ nightlife.

Today, South Pigalle (or SoPi as known by some) which is located just at the foothill of Montmartre is the finest choice for theater and nightlife lovers.

Named after the famous sculptor Jean-Baptiste Pigalle, Sopi is also the nerve center for hipster locals.

You can stroll around Rue des Martyrs , admiring the vibrant street cafes, shops, and restaurants.

Spoil yourself at lively bars, cabarets, and music venues but be sure to shop for some exquisite souvenirs amidst the packed pathways of Passage Jouffroy .

But it’s not just bars and quirky galleries in South Pigalle, you’ll find museums like Musée de la Vie Romantique which is one of the must-visit free museums in Paris , (though it’s usually confused to be in Montmartre).

If you wish to take part in the nightlife of Paris , make sure to stop over at South Pigalle.

Plan Your Visit To South Pigalle

Where to eat in South Pigalle:  KB Cafe Shop — this is one of the best coffee shops in Paris , Restaurant Caillebotte, or Buvette Paris.

Where to stay in South Pigalle : Hotel Victor Massé (Budget hotel), Grand Hôtel De Turin (Mid-range hotel), Hotel Migny Opéra Montmartre (Spacious and comfortable hotel), or this Apartment rental (a spacious and modern apartment in the heart of Pigalle).

7. Belleville, 10th, 11th, 19th, and 20th Arrondissements

Situated on a hill, Belleville is one of Paris’ most beautiful neighborhoods yet often overlooked by tourists. It straddles 4 arrondissements — the 19th, 20th, 10th, and 11th though the largest part lies in the 20th and the 19th.

After the industrial revolution in the 19th century, it quickly gained popularity as a significant immigrant neighborhood.

Today, it is a multicultural place though it stands out mostly as a home to one of the Chinatowns in Paris.

Unlike other neighborhoods of Paris that are covered in Haussmann architecture and packed with tourists, Belleville is more laid down giving a village-in-city kind of vibe. In fact, it easily qualifies as one of the non-touristy Paris neighborhoods.

Belleville also features some of the most spectacular street art in Paris that it’s hard not to see at every turn. Add the unique contemporary art galleries and you’ll get yourself the true meaning of Belleville.

Besides art, another notable attraction in this Parisian neighborhood is Père Lachaise Cemetery , the largest cemetery in Paris, with graves of notable figures such as Édith Piaf, Oscar Wilde, and Jim Morrison.

You can also stop at Musee Edith Piaf to learn a bit more about one of the most famous French singers of all time.

When you finish exploring all the art in the area, you can relax at Parc de Belleville or Parc Buttes-Chaumont which both offer stunning views of Paris since the neighborhood is also on a hill (one of the highest points in the city) — just like Montmartre.

So, if you want to escape the crowds in other areas of Paris or just want to chill in a laid-back and colorful neighborhood, head to Belleville.

Plan Your Visit To Belleville

Where to eat in Belleville: Mensae, WenZhou, La Cave de Belleville, or Raviolis Nord-Est.

Where to stay in  Belleville : Hotel des Vosges (Budget hotel), Hotel Scarlett (Mid-range hotel), Babel Belleville (Luxury hotel), or this Apartment rental .

Get your tickets ready: Most of the attractions in Belleville are free but if you want to fully know the ins and outs of the city’s biggest cemetery, I recommend booking this Père Lachaise Cemetery Walking Tour . I also highly recommend going for this street art walking tour to discover all the street art treasures in this neighborhood plus the story behind them.

Related post: Fun free things to do in Paris

8. Oberkampf, 11th Arrondissement

Oberkampf is located in the 11th arrondissement and is named after the famous French industrialist Christophe-Philippe Oberkampf .

Despite being home to several marvelous galleries, street art, and boutiques, the nightlife of this neighborhood is what sets it apart.

The neighborhood is packed with a number of clubs, hip bars, and restaurants that anyone who enjoys having a great nightlife will appreciate.

You can also indulge yourself in the fresh aromas of delectable local foods at Marché des Enfants Rouges .

What makes this place even more admirable are the tiny passages such as Passage Brady and Passage l’Homme . So, if you are nearby, take some time to explore the hidden gems of Paris in Oberkampf.

Plan Your Visit To Oberkampf

Where to eat in Oberkampf: Les Fabricants, Les Fabricants, Melt, or Ober Mamma.

Where to stay in  Oberkampf : My Home In Paris (Mid-range hotel), Hôtel Fabric (Luxury stay). or this luxury fully equipped quiet studio (Apartment rental).

9. Canal Saint-Martin, 10th Arrondissement

A 4.6 km (2.86 meters) long Canal Saint-Martin constructed in the 19th century is what makes this neighborhood stand out.

With a mix of trendy, lively, and hipster vibes, Canal Saint-Martin is the perfect definition of French Boho — think of it as a blend between bourgeois and bohemian.

The neighborhood is dotted with small cafes and bars and you’ll find traces of street arts and street musicians to keep the vibe going.

Moreover, the bohemian vibe on the streets and live band at Le coq D’or bring more joy to the whole experience.

Its impressive straight stretches and iron-clad footbridges are ideal for getting away from the hustles and bustles of the city and offer a great alternative to the rather crowded Seine River.

You can choose to walk on the banks of the canal, enjoy a picnic, or board a boat cruise to explore the canal even more closely.

This is one of Paris’s best neighborhoods ideal for spending sunny afternoons or lazy evenings with your friends. 

Plan Your Visit To Canal Saint-Martin

Where to eat at Canal Saint-Martin: Chez prune, Tigermilk Paris Canal, or Hôtel du Nord.

Where to stay at Canal Saint-Martin: Libertel Gare de L’Est Francais (Mid-range hotel), Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel & Spa (Luxury hotel), or this Beautiful and large apartment (apartment rental).

Get your tickets ready: If you want to cruise on the canal, you can book this lovely boat cruise that takes you along the Seine and Canal Saint-Martin.

10. Saint-Germain-des-Prés, 6th Arrondissement

Initially a quiet town, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is well known for its artistic vibe since many artists called it home in the 19th century.

The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is an eminent proof of historical importance with impeccable architecture but the luxury boutiques and fancy gourmet restaurants in Saint-Germain-des-Prés are what will make your heart skip a beat.

Saint-Germain is also brimming with museums worth exploring. From Mus é e Delacroix , which highlights the life of this French painter , Musée de la Monnaie , Zadkine Museum , and Musée de Minéralogie , which has an extensive collection of over 100,000 rare mineral specimens.

This is also where you’ll find the famous Pont des Arts or Love Lock Bridge as known by many.

Furthermore, stroll through one of the beautiful Parisian gardens ; Jardin du Luxembourg , which has it all, from the charming rose gardens to tennis courts and playgrounds. There are a lot of things to do in Saint Germain , so make sure you have plenty of time. 

Plan Your Visit To Saint-Germain-des-Prés

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Café de Flore Paris official (@lecafedeflore)

Where to eat in Saint-Germain: Les Deux Magots, Cafe de Flore, Le Procope, or Brasserie Lipp.

Where to stay in Saint-Germain : Hotel Clément (Budget hotel), Grand Hôtel de L’Univers Saint-Germain (Mid-range hotel), K+K Hôtel Cayré Saint Germain des Prés (luxury hotel), or this apartment rental (Comfortable apartment in the heart of Saint Germain).

Get your tickets ready: To fully get an understanding of Saint-Germain, you can sign up for this neighborhood walking tour or this Saint-Germain-des-Prés pastry and Chocolate Walking Tour to indulge in France’s pastries.

11. Opera, 9th, 1st, And 2nd Arrondissements

Famously known for its Grand Magasins and Palais Garnier, Opera is one of the busiest neighborhoods in Paris.

If you’re into shopping, fine dining, cinema, and cultural activities, the Opera neighborhood is one that you shouldn’t miss visiting.

Make a stop at Palais Garnier , or Paris Opera to take in its opulence beauty both on the interior and exterior, or catch a show at Olympia . And for all French perfume lovers, Musée du Parfum Fragonard is an ethereal experience.

And if you ever fancied shopping in Paris, the Opera neighborhood is the shopping mecca. You’ll find anything you can think of at Boulevard Haussmann in either Printemps or Galeries Lafayette — Paris’s most famous departmental stores.  

Plan Your Visit To Opera

Where to eat in Opera: Cafe de la Paix, Le Capucine (Opéra), or Hanoï Cà Phê Opéra.

Where to stay in Opera: ibis Paris Grands Boulevards Opéra 9e (Budget hotel), Hotel Peyris Opera (Mid-range hotel), Hotel Migny Opéra Montmartre (Luxury hotel), or this Apartment rental (spacious apartment near Palais Garnier).

Get your tickets ready: Take in the beauty of Opera Garnier by purchasing this entry ticket .

12. Bastille, 4th, 11th, and 12th Arrondissement

Situated where the historic Bastille prison once stood, the wonderful Bastille neighborhood bestrides the 4th, 11th, and 12th arrondissements.

The highlight of your visit to Bastille will be Opera Bastille , the second-largest opera house in the city, where you can witness terrific symphony concerts and ballet performances, and Colonne de Juillet which is a reminder of France’s historied past.

This neighborhood is also bustling during the nighttime, with numerous chic cafes, bars, and classical concert halls.

Plan Your Visit To Bastille

Where to eat in Bastille: Amici Miei, Septime, Jones, or Servan.

Where to stay in Bastille: Hotel L’Antoine (Budget hotel), La Maison Gobert Paris Hotel Particulier (Bed & Breakfast), Maison Bréguet (Luxury hotel), or this lovely home at Bastille (Apartment rental).

Final Thoughts on the Cool Paris Neighborhoods

From the Opera to the Latin Quarter and Montmartre, these neighborhoods of Paris can not be missed whether you want to immerse yourself in the art and cultural side of the city or you just want to learn more about Paris’s history.

So, what are you waiting for? Use this Paris neighborhood guide to choose the best area that suits your taste or better yet visit all of them if you have time to experience some of the most remarkable pieces of art and culture.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Best Things to do in Paris in April
• What to do in Paris at night
• Best things to do in Paris in January
• What to do in pairs in February
• What to Pack for Paris in winter
• Fun facts about Paris
• Best things to do in Paris in Spring
• Where to find the best views of Paris
• Big mistakes to avoid in Paris
• What to Pack for Paris
• Skip the line tickets for Paris’ popular attractions
• Interesting jokes about Paris
• Paris captions for Instagram
• Famous quotes on Paris

Was this post on the best areas in Paris helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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Join an authentic experience of Paris, mixing at the same time gastronomy, culture and history.

MONTMARTRE OFF ROADS

Montmartre is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris and was made famous thanks to so many movies and the Sacré-Coeur basilica which overlooks the city. Far from the usual crowd, you will explore our favorite addresses and the secret corners of this classic neighborhood

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This 3-hours gastronomy tour will bring you to the Paris that parisians love. You wish to know more about life in Paris ? Exchange with some locals ? This tour will allow you to immerse yourself like a local and try some typical french food. Your guide will bring you to her favorite places.

MARAIS PASTRY & HISTORY TOUR

If you like pastries, this tour is for you ! It takes place in the Marais, one of the oldest neighborhoods of Paris where there are a lot of excellent pastry shops. Jewish quarter, gay neighbourhood, famous for the fashion boutiques, the Marais has multiple identities. You will discover the best neighbourhood’s pastry shops and its fascinating history.

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Walking in Paris — 5 perfect walks through Paris with maps

By: Author Emily

Posted on Last updated: November 27, 2023

The quaint cobblestone streets, winding alleys and Haussman buildings — the ones with the stone facades and wrought iron railings — that you picture when you think of a Paris postcard are all very much real. Walking through Paris is definitely the best way to explore those scenes.

While Paris is incredibly walkable,  it’s also quite big. To help narrow the scope, we’ve put put together a few walking routes that will guide you through some of the best parts of Paris. In this guide, we’ll explore Paris on foot with the help of five detailed maps.

These walking routes are designed with first-time visitors it mind. They offer a self-guided walking tour through some of the most beautiful neighborhoods, most popular tourist attractions and most charming streets in Paris.

Wander … but within reason

The French have a term — Flâner — which means to wander aimlessly through a city. There’s no similar word in English, and I would argue that’s because we’re bad at it. And by “we,” I guess I mean Americans.

I recently moved to New York and there is no wandering here. Even in Central Park, everyone has somewhere to be. And they’re not just trying to get there , they’re usually working out the next five places they need to be, too.

Neither is inherently better. Simply a difference in speed and lifestyles from two sides of the pond.

But what happens when a New Yorker goes to Paris and all the tips say to wander aimlessly but their Type A brain simply cannot do that? What about the people who want to wander, but within reason?

Enter this post. We’re here for the people who need a little direction more than “Just explore!”

On these maps, we’ve plotted the city’s top attractions, noted some of the most beautiful streets and flagged our favorite stops along the way. But from there, you can amble through nearby alleys, pop into hidden cafes and discover your own favorite spots to really make the journey your own.

We’ve drawn the box but you can color inside and outside the lines however you choose.

Paris walking routes explored in this post

• Arc de Triomphe to Pont de Arts — A must-do for first time visitors
• Latin Quarter & the isles — A balance of city energy and quiet streets
• Le Marais — A trendy neighborhood in a historic setting
• Montmartre — A beloved and beautiful art district on a hill with great views
• Eiffel Tower & the Seine — A charming walk through a Paris postcard

Arc de Triomphe to Pont de Arts Walking Guide

This is my favorite way to start a trip to Paris. Whether this is your first time in Paris or you’re a repeat visitor, this walk is a great way see many of Paris’ iconic sights in one long stretch. It features the city’s most famous boulevard, a beautiful park, iconic views and shopping galore.

This walking route in full is about 3 miles. If you were walking straight through, it would take about an hour. We don’t recommend that, though. There are so many things you can see and do along this walk that you could easily fill an entire day if you wanted.

Arc de Triomphe

Champs-élysées.

• Tuileries Gardens
• Pont de Arts

A few quick tips for using this map.

• To view the map in Google Maps, click the expand icon on the top right corner.
• Click the star icon to save the map to your Google account for later.
• To access the map next time, open Google Maps > click the Saved tab > click Maps.

Tips for this walk

• Don’t start too early. Most of the stores at the start of this walk don’t open until 10 or 11 AM. Take some time to enjoy breakfast and coffee before you head out for the day.
• Book tickets in advance. If you want to visit the top of the Arc de Triomphe or go inside the Louvre , it’s best to book a timed ticket in advance. Popular dates and times can book up days in advance.
• The Louvre deserves an entire day . That said, if you’d like to go inside the Louvre we’d recommend doing it on a different day and arrive when they open if possible. It’s a huge museum and it gets very crowded, especially in the afternoon. On this walk, we recommend just stopping by the pyramid and maybe the shops below.
• Eat along the way. There are plenty of cafes and street food vendors along this route. I don’t specifically call out many throughout this post because there are options everywhere. I’d personally recommend picking up small bites everytime you pass something yummy, like a crepe from a street vendor in Champs-Élysées Gardens, an appetizer at a bar off Saint-Honoré and ice cream in Tuileries Garden.

The view from the top of the Arc de Triomphe

Self-guided walk from Arc de Triomphe to Pont de Arts

This walk begins at Arc de Triomphe. The best way to get there will usually be by train, but it may vary based on your exact hotel location. The nearest Metro strops are Kléber station which serves the 6 train and  George V or Argentine which serves the 1 train.

Arc de Triomphe is located in the center of a busy traffic circle. Do not attempt to walk to the monument from street level. There is a pedestrian tunnel with access points (marked in yellow below) on Champs-Élysées and Grande Armée streets that will lead you to the base of the Arc de Triomphe. This is where the entrance to the monument is located, but you can also visit the base at street level for free.

You can go inside and to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Timed entry tickets are required and cost €13 for adults. Everyone under 18 is free. The views from the top are incredible and it’s a great alternative to going to the top of the Eiffel Tower .

Even if you aren’t going inside the moment, it’s still worth seeing it from the street. The best views are on Champs-Élysées, which is convenient because that’s where we’re heading next.

One of the most famous, most filmed and most beautiful streets in Paris is Champs-Élysées. It’s akin to Michigan Avenue in Chicago, Oxford Street in London and Fifth Avenue in New York.

The street is lined with trees, which are stunning all the time but even more so in autumn and Christmastime. There’s tons of shops and stores, ranging from Zara to Louis Vuitton. Whether you’re shopping or window shopping, you are likely to be dazzled along the way.

Some of my favorite shops along Champs-Élysées are:

• Disney Store: They have always have a line up of Paris-specific Disney merchandise and lots of toys that kids will love to look at (and ask for).
• Galeries Lafayette: This is a great indoor mall to warm up in the winter or cool off in the summer.
• Nike House of Innovation: This store is a fusion of Nike Store and science museum. It’s a fun stop for the athlete and/or toddlers in your family.
• Ladurée : This pastry shop is famous for their macarons. They have many locations all over Paris (and the world). This location has a full sit-down restaurant (reservations recommended), but they also have a separate line to get treats to go.

Champs-Élysées Gardens

At the south-east end of Champs-Élysées, the shops give way to a garden. It’s lovely to walk thought, but it’s not the best for siting and staying awhile. (We’ve got an even more beautiful garden coming up in a bit.)

There are several theaters throughout the gardens. Along the way, you’ll also pass the Grand Palais and Petit Palais (museums) and Élysée Palace (official residence of the French president).

At the end of the garden you’ll run into Place de la Concorde. The plaza is basically a really busy traffic intersection with an Egyptian obelisk in the center. My recommendation? Skip it. Instead, turn left on Rue Royale and walk a block to Rue Saint-Honoré.

Rue Saint-Honoré

This street is your high-end fashion street. Designer brands like Hermès, Versace, Fendi and Christian Louboutin all have storefronts on Rue Saint-Honoré between Avenue de Marigny and where the street ends near the Louvre.

Even if $1,500 shoes are out of your budget, the window shopping alone is worth even a short stroll down this street. Plus, like I said, a detour down this street is better than crossing the traffic puzzle at Place de la Concorde.

If you’re looking to wander, this is a good area to do it. There are lots of side streets in this area that lead to unique shops, fancy hotels and swanky cafes and bars.

One of the most famous stops around here is Angelina, which is famous for their decadent hot chocolate. It’s a high-end, sit-down restaurant though, so dress accordingly. Because it’s so famous, reservations are recommend because they get very crowded. (Be sure to book early, too. They book up well over a month in advance.)

There’s also several places for fancy cocktails in cozy, immaculately decorated bars. Some of the most popular picks in the area are Bar Hemingway (inside the Ritz Paris), Bar 8 (inside the Mandarin Oriental) and Harry’s New York.

I buy designer things so infrequently that I take photos marking it as a life event

Tuileries Garden

After some shopping and maybe some light day-drinking, cut back to Tuileries Garden. This is one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris. If you were looking for a green space to relax, maybe have a picnic or let the kids play for a bit, this is the spot. (By the way, if you’re visiting Paris with kids be sure to check out this post for all our best tips.)

You don’t have to walk down every pathway in the park, but try a few different ones! You’ll find outdoor cafes, several ponds and fountains, and interesting sculptures. The grounds are immaculately landscaped with beautiful trees, flowers and bushes which really shine in the spring and fall. There’s also a great playground, which the kids will love.

At the southeastern end of the garden, you’ll run into what looks like the Arc de Triomphe. Don’t worry. You didn’t find a wormhole and travel back two miles to where you started your day. This is a second and slightly smaller monument called Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel, and it was designed at the same time as the Arc de Triomphe.

Louvre Museum

Just beyond Tuileries Gardens is the world famous Louvre art museum. The iconic glass pyramid is in an open plaza above the entrance to the museum. The plaza is a popular place for photos, souvenir shopping from street vendors, and just general relaxing with a view.

Below the plaza is Carrousel du Louvre, which is an indoor shopping mall with a food court. To get down there, look for one of the stairways around the edge of the plaza. A lot of people don’t know is that there’s also an inverted glass pyramid below ground, and this is where you’ll find it. Pretty cool!

Now, if you’re planning to visit the museum, you could certainly do that in the afternoon after making this walk. Alternatively, you could flip this walk and start at the Louvre and do the rest in reverse order. However, we don’t think it’s worth trying to smoosh the Louvre into an otherwise busy day.

The Louvre is gigantic and it’s hard to see everything even with a full day. If you want to go inside, we recommend getting the earliest entry time you can and spending a relaxing, long day there.

Pont des Arts

Exit the Louvre and head towards the Seine. Look for the Pont des Arts pedestrian bridge. It’s between Pont du Carrousel (a car traffic bridge) and Île de la Cité (an island in the middle of the river).

The bridge offers excellent views all around. You can see the Eiffel Tower in one direction and Pont Neuf on the either. There are benches along the way to relax after a long day.

If you’re heading home after Pont des Arts, the nearest Metro stop is Pont Neuf, which serves the 7 train.

View of Pont Neuf from Pont des Arts

Continue your Journey

• Peruse used books and art prints at the bouquinistes, the iconic green box stalls along the Seine
• Enjoy a meal or a coffee at a classic cafe in Saint Germain, maybe Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots
• Start your next walk through Latin Quarter & the isles

Latin Quarter & the isles Walking Tour

The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, dating back more than 2,000 years. It has winding streets and tiny alleys that are filled with lively cafes, very old buildings and bookshops galore. It’s a mesh of tourist traps and authentic history, dotted with museums and gardens for good measure. The district is home to Sorbonne University, and the student population keeps the area young.

The isles refer to Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis, which are literal islands in the middle of the Siene. They comprise quaint shopping streets, famous churches and maybe the best ice cream in Paris. It’s a bit quieter than the banks on either side, but they’re delightful neighborhoods for a stroll.

This walk isn’t short and clocks in at just under 4 miles. But with breaks for meals and coffee along the way, it actually fills a day quite nicely.

• Shakespeare & Company

Île Saint-Louis

Rue Mouffetard

Luxembourg Gardens

As a reminder, here are some quick tips for using this map.

• Plan this walk on a Saturday . In order to feel the energy of this area, you want to visit when it’s got some life to it and that’s typically the weekend. The Rue Mouffetard market closes on Sunday afternoon, which is why we suggest Saturday specifically. Do note that many places are closed on Mondays.
• Bring cash (Euros) . Most restaurants and cafes in this area will take credit cards, but most street vendors don’t. Cash will be helpful for other odds and end purchases too, like renting a tiny sail boat to float around the pond in Luxembourg Gardens.
• The gardens are best in the summer. During the summer months, the gardens in Paris are alive . Not only are they the most beautiful during that time, but they’re also a social hub for tourists and locals alike. In the later fall and winter months, they can feel quite desolate.
• If you have little ones, split this walk over two days. This is a long walk and will wipe out most adults. I originally planned this walk with our toddler, but they totally crashed half way through. If you’re co-travellers have little legs, make this one a two-day journey.
• Skip Jardin des Plantes if you have to. If this walk is too long or you’re short on time and have to cut something, cut Jardin des Plantes. It’s out of the way and not a must see, so it’s a good way to shorten this day up a bit. That might mean skipping Rue Mouffetard, too.

Self-guided walk through Latin Quarter & the isles

This walk begins at at Pont Neuf, which is a famous bridge that passes through Île de la Cité. Ideally you would take the 7 train and get off at Pont Neuf. However, depending on where you’re staying, you could also take the 4 or 10 trains to Odéon. From there you could walk back to Pont Neuf or just skip the bridge and head straight to Fontaine Saint-Michel.

If you walked across Pont des Arts pedestrian bridge as part of the previous walking route, you’ll have already gotten a great view of Pont Neuf.

This stone bridge was first opened for use in 1604 and is the oldest bridge over the Seine that’s still in use today. There are 381 stone masks, or mascarons, carved into the bridge which represent mythical divinities. There’s also a large statue of Henry IV where the bridge crosses Île de la Cité.

After crossing the bridge to the Left Bank, walk along the south side of the Seine. Peek at the many bouquinistes, which are the little shop stalls in the green boxes. They sell art prints, books, little souvenirs and other odds and ends. It’s hard to believe something so cute and notoriously French actually exists in real life.

Fontaine Saint-Michel

In a couple blocks you’ll come to a second bridge, Pont Saint-Michel. Turn right (away from the Seine) and you’ll run into Fontaine Saint-Michele.

This is a stone fountain in a square, which was constructed in 1860. The square around it is often bustling with tourists passing through. There’s not much seating, so people will sit along the base of the fountain itself. You can usually see a street musician or dance troupe performing in front of it.

You don’t need to stay long here, but it’s a great entry point to the Latin Quarter.

Rue de la Huchette

Just across Boulevard Saint-Michele from the fountain is Rue de la Huchette. This two block street is one of the oldest in Paris. It’s famous for having the highest concentration of restaurants in the city — none of them particularly good.

The tiny pedestrian street is cramped with souvenir shops, pubs and creperies. Lining the street are many old buildings with their own stories to tell. One dates back to the 1600s. Another is said to have been a residence of Napoleon Bonaparte.

The street is very touristy, but that’s okay! Most people reading this are tourists and you shouldn’t feel bad about doing popular things. Get a Nutella crepe and let yourself go.

While you’re in this area, it’s a good time explore some of the side streets. I’d recommend popping south a few blocks to the The Abbey Bookshop.

Shakespeare and Company

Just past the end of Rue de la Huchette is Shakespeare and Company. The bookstore opened in 1951 and quickly became a literary beacon for English writers in Paris. Today, there’s often a line out the door to get into the cramped bookshop.

Fun story. The owner, inspired by his own experience with the kindness of strangers, always allowed creatives to sleep for free in the book shop. The invitation was open to writers, artists and other intellectuals, and there were three rules. Each guest had to read a book a day, help the shopkeep for a couple hours, and write a one-page autobiography. Today, thousands of biographies have been collected and archived in the shop.

You should actually read the history of the founder and the bookshop, which is told much more eloquently here .

Attached to the bookstore is a cafe by the same name. I can’t come to Paris and not stop here for a cappuccino and this Paris institution.

Right across the river from Shakespeare & Company is Notre Dame cathedral.

I have been to almost 50 countries and have visited houses of worship in all of them. Nothing hit me quite like walking into Notre Dame on my first visit in 2017. I know that’s probably the most cliche favorite church to have, but it’s mine.

Unfortunately, the inside of Notre Dame is still closed after a fire in 2019 burned much of the cathedral. You can still access the courtyard in front of it and see the church and the famous gargoyles from the outside.

Pass around the back of Notre Dame and cross over Pont Saint-Louis onto Île Saint-Louis. Step onto the island and you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time and maybe teleported to a small French village. It’s quaint and quiet, but don’t read that as boring. There are darling boutiques, amazing restaurants and somehow less crowds than the rest of Paris.

Focus your attention on Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, the main street that runs through the heart of the island. In a few blocks you’ll hit Berthillon ice cream shop. People argue it’s the best ice cream in all of Paris. The shop’s been around and run by the same family since the 1950s. I must confess, we haven’t actually tried it! The timing just didn’t work out for us, but it’s on our bucket list for sure.

When you’re done exploring the island, cross back to the Left Bank via Pont de la Tournelle or Pont de Sully.

Tino Rossi Garden & Jardin des Plantes

Now it’s time to relax with a bit of nature. The next part of this walk starts at Tino Rossi Garden. It’s a wonderful transition from the bustle of the city to the serenity of Jardin des Plantes.

Jardin des Plantes is a huge botanical garden. About half the garden space is a ticked zoo, which costs €10-13 per person. For the sake of time during this busy day though, we’d suggest skipping the zoo. Instead, follow the paths that cuts straight through the southern portion of the gardens.

Now we’re back to shopping and eating. After Jardin des Plantes, head toward Square Saint-Médard. There are a few ways to get there and any will work. This square has an open air market which is open most days except Sunday afternoon and Monday.

After the market, head north on Rue Mouffetard. The street is so charming and beautiful, from the shops to the buildings themselves. It’s another one of the oldest streets in Paris and its said to have been the main inspiration for Victor Hugo when he wrote Les Miserables.

When Rue Mouffetard hits Rue Clovis, turn left and head to Luxembourg Gardens. Be sure to take note of the Pantheon as you pass by. This is also a popular attraction to visit, but this long walk doesn’t leave time to go inside.

Luxembourg Gardens is my favorite park in all of Paris. In the summer, the flowers are stunning, while in the fall the changing leaves steal the show. Take some time wandering through the gardens, but be sure to take some time to sit near the pond in front of Luxembourg Palace.

In the summer, there’s a small stand near the pond where you can rent wooden boats to sail on the pond in the summer. Theres a great story about the boats, which you can read here .

• Visit the observation deck at Montparnasse Tower and enjoy a cocktail on the roof with views of the entire city at sunset
• Continuing your shopping spree on Boulevard Saint-Germain
• Get a glass of wine at a charming local bar like Chez Georges or Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels
• Start your next walk through Le Marais

Le Marais Walking Guide

The Marais has so much personality. It’s historic but trendy. Religious but LGBT friendly. Urban but quaint.

My desire to explore Le Marais is what inspired me to write this entire post. Everything I read about the neighborhood said “just go and walk around” or “it’s a great place to get lost.” I do not do well with these types of directions. I always end up on the wrong streets and wasting time in places that honestly aren’t that great.

So if you also want to explore Le Marais, but want to know just where to explore, I’ve got you covered. This route passes through some of the main shopping streets, landmarks and squares in the heart of Le Marais. With some basic landmarks flagged, you’ll feel empowered to take a few extra turns along the way as you Flâner .

Saint-Jacques Tower

Rue de rivoli, place des vosges, jewish quarter, marché des enfants rouges, square du temple.

• Get coffee first. Not far from start of this walk is Motors Coffee. It’s a great coffee shop with killer banana Nutella bread. Start here.
• Start in the afternoon . This neighborhood is slow to wake up. Come in the afternoon for the best energy. It’s also a good place to be in the evening, as there’s a wide array of bars and restaurants.
• Consider a guided tour . There’s a lot of really deep and interesting history in Le Marais. If you’re into that sort of thing, there are several free walking tours through the area, like this one .
• Wander within reason . I’ve noted the high streets and notable sights on this map, but I’ve also noted a larger general area that represents the heart of Le Marais. If you have time and interest, wandering down any of these streets will serve you well.

Self-guided walk through Le Marais

This walking tour begins at Saint-Jacques Tower. To get there by train, take the 1, 4, 7, 11 or 14 trains to Châtelet station.

The tower you see today is all that remains of a 16th century church that was destroyed during the French Revolution. For €12, you can climb 300 steps to the top of the tower. It’s usually not too crowded. The tower is only open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM – 6 PM.

Even if you don’t go inside, the tower is beautiful to look at and surrounded by a lovely and quaint garden. There’s a small playground on one side for children, too.

Continue east down Rue de Rivoli. This is a one of the mail thoroughfares that cut through Le Marais and it’s lined with lots of big-box and thrift stores and also restaurants. There are lots of cool buildings along the way, including one you literally can’t miss, Hôtel de Ville. This massive building primarily serves as a government building, but they do occasionally have public exhibitions and guided tours.

Consider a detour off this main street to see Saint-Gervais church, Rue des Barres or Mémorial de la Shoah holocaust memorial. There are cute boutiques and some really interesting, really old buildings in this area.

Try to make it back to Rue de Rivoli by Saint Paul Station. If you have little ones, there’s a small carousel ride that might quickly become their favorite thing about their Paris trip.

Next up is the main square in Les Marais, Place des Vosges. It’s a perfectly square park that even has square trees! It’s a popular square that’s great people watching and relaxing.

Many reviews I read said that Place des Vosges was too crowded and to seek out less popular squares like Place Sainte-Catherine. I disagree. I think the energy at Place des Vosges is why you should go there.

Exit the park onto Rue des Francs Bourgeois, which another main shopping street. This one is features more high end designers and boutiques like Maje and Ted Baker.

Turn left onto Rue Pavée and then right on Rue des Rosiers and you’ll have found the soul of the Jewish Quarter. This short street is filled with jewish restaurants, bookshops and synagogues. There is so much history in this area if you know where to look. I’d highly recommend this article which talks about the history in much more depth.

If you’re hungry, this is a good place to pick up some falafel. L’As du Fallafel is the most popular pick.

Rue Vieille du Temple

Rue des Rosiers and the Jewish quarter ends at Rue Vieille du Temple. This is another photogenic shopping street with high-end boutiques and charming cafes.

Some of the cutest portions of this street are actually to the left between the Jewish Quarter and Rue de Rivoli. If you have time, walk a few blocks out of your way through that section. Alternatively, you can just turn right and head north right off the bat for an abridged version of this street.

When you run into a large 6-way interchange, turn left onto Rue de Bretagne. This street will lead you to Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest food market in Paris.

This market has vendors selling fresh produce and meats, but also full restaurants with bar and table service. It’s a popular place to get a meal in a unique setting.

Personally, this market didn’t do it for me. It was smaller than I expected (much smaller than Borough Market , which is what I was picturing) and nothing really stood out to me to try (granted, I’m a vegetarian). Instead of waiting for a table at the cramped restaurants, we walked a bit up the road and got pizza at a cafe. (Also uninspired, I know, but at least we were comfortable.)

Round out your time in Le Marais with a visit to Square du Temple. It’s a beautiful garden with a memorial to Elie Wlesel, playground and pond.

We actually had to cut our day a little short and didn’t make it all the way here, but I’d prioritize it next time.

• Visit a museum such as the National Archives Museum, Picasso Museum or the Museum of the Art and History of Judaism.
• Get cocktails! This area is known for it’s nightlife, but even an early drink in the area is fun. Try Candelaria (speakeasy) or read this list for best bars in the area.
• Head over La Coulée Verte Paris, an elevated garden on an old train line (similar in concept to the High Line in New York City)
• Start your next walk through Montmartre

Montmartre Walking Guide

Montmartre is often people’s favorite place in Paris and with good reason. It has winding cobble stone streets, artists painting portraits, views over most of Paris, and it’s literally topped off with a breathtaking basilica.

This is another area that can get a bad rap for being “too touristy,” but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t go. This walking route will guide you through the main areas of the neighborhood, which yes, includes the tourist attractions along the way.

Montmartre isn’t just about the attractions, though. The best way to enjoy the area is simply to spend time there. By that I mean sit on the steps for awhile. Plan to get a meal at a street-side cafe. Go into the shops and stores. If you’re just checking off sights, the neighborhood will just pass you by.

For that reason, this walk is much shorter in distance than the first three. It’s just over a mile. The neighborhood isn’t that big, so even if you wander off the path, which is encouraged, you still won’t be covering too much distance. This walk can be covered in about half a day.

Montmartre Funicular

Sacré-cœur, place du tertre, rue de l’abreuvoir, le bateau-lavoir, moulin rouge.

• Dine at a charming cafe. Montmartre is dripping with Instagrammable cafes. Le Consulat, La Maison Rose, La Taverne de Montmartre and Le Potager are all highly rated and beautiful restaurants in the area.
• Take a mini Picasso tour . The renowned painter Pueblo Picasso lived and painted in Montmartre for many years. You can see his house, studio and favorite spots in the neighborhood. Here’s a great guide that details the history and exact locations of all things Picasso in Montmartre.
• Come during different times on different trips . During your first trip to Paris, I’d suggest visiting in the early afternoon when it’s the most busy, but then try different times during subsequent visits. Come in the evening and watch the sunset from the steps of Square Louise Michel. If you want to get a portrait, come around 11 when they set up for the best pick of artists.
• Plan your route wisely. If you look at Google maps, it’s easy to feel like you can move around the district pretty quickly. Be warned! The neighborhood of Montmartre has a huge hill in the middle, which is what Sacré-Cœur sits atop. I’d suggest taking the funicular up, seeing everything at the top at once, then working your way down as you explore the rest of the neighborhood.

Self-guided walk through Montmartre

This route begins in the center of the Montmartre neighborhood at the Abbesses subway station, which serves the 12 train. Alternatively, you could take the 2 train to Pigalle station and walk up Rue des Martyrs to Rue Yvonne le Tac.

Walk along Rue Yvonne le Tac and then Rue Tardieu till you reach the base of Square Louise Michel. Just about everyone will be making the same walk between Abbesses and the square, so the street is always lively.

A funicular is a type of cable-based train that is usually used on very steep hills, and Montmartre has one. There are several different stair cases that lead up the hill, including the notable steps up Square Louise Michel, but the funicular is the easiest way to get to the top.

The base of the Montmartre funicular is located here in the southwest corner of Square Louise Michel. You can use a Paris Metro travel card or single ride ticket to ride the funicular. There is a ticket kiosk near the entrance to the funicular where you can purchase a ticket if you don’t already have one. You cannot tap to pay with a credit card on Paris Metro transportation, including the funicular.

It’s a short trip to the top and a car departs every few minutes. The funicular just makes one stop, which is at the top of the hill here . When you exit, turn right and you’re just steps away from Sacré-Cœur.

Sacré-Cœur is the basilica at the top of Montmartre. The church was consecrated in 1919. It was initially proposed as a way for France to seek religious redemption for kidnapping the pope under Napoleon. (You can read about that wild story here .)

Sacré-Cœur is free to enter and is open daily from 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM. Inside there are several statues, stained glass windows, and an immaculate pipe organ built by the same person who built the organ for Notre Dame. The organ is played on Sundays during mass and evening prayer at 4PM. For a small fee — for which they accept credit cards or cash — you can light a prayer candle inside the church.

You can also go to the top of the dome at Sacré-Cœur. The dome is open everyday from 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM and costs €7 for adults. There is no elevator to the top, so you’ll need to be able to climb 300 steps. I’ve never actually been to the top of the dome because the views from the ground are so good.

Square Louise Michel

The basilica sits at the top of Square Louise Michel. Before you continue with this walk, take a short break on the steps here and enjoy the view.

The square is lined with steps which are always filled with people enjoying the sweeping views of Paris. There’s often street performers and hawkers selling beers right from the cardboard case. The cops will always come and shut them down, but they always come right back. It’s a fun dance.

This is one of my favorite views in Paris. It’s also a great place to see the sun set if you’re here in the evening.

Pass the church and make your way to Place du Tertre. The small streets along the way have lots of souvenir shops, food vendors like creperies and ice cream shops, and a couple small art galleries. I’d suggest walking, but there’s also a cute little train that you can take.

Place du Tertre has capitalized on the artsy past of this neighborhood. Today it’s filled with artist painting portraits and selling their work. The outside of the square is all open-air cafes filled with people sipping wine and people watching.

If you’re looking to get a portrait drawn, come around 11 when they’re setting up. The best artists can get lines quickly. If you’re just coming to observe, come in the afternoon when it’s the most crowded.

Leave (some of) the crowds behind and make your way down to Rue de l’Abreuvoir. This means taking a steep walk down the hill on Rue des Saules until you see the unmissable pink and green La Maison Rose restaurant.

If you go straight past it, you’ll actually see Clos Montmartre. It’s the oldest operating vineyard in Paris; not something you’d expect to find in the middle of a city. It is not typically open to the public (minus a few special tours throughout the year), but you can see the vines from the street.

Back at our pink restaurant, though, turn onto Rue de l’Abreuvoir.

This street is beautiful. There are stone walls dripping with ivy, charming Parisian buildings and cobblestone sidewalks. It’s a delightful stroll and photographer’s dream. It’s a short street and it ends at the statue of the boobs (aka Buste de Dalida).

Just around the corner you’ll hit Square Suzanne Buisson. If you need a break and/or if the kids want to play, make a pit stop here. It’s a small square, but it’s a good respite.

Next, make your way toward Place Émile Goudeau. The route in my map above will take you down a tiny alley, which may feel like the wrong way but isn’t. Just keep going and you’ll soon hit the cobblestone square.

The square looks out onto Le Bateau-Lavoir, which was the studio rented by Picasso when he moved to Paris. The original studio was destroyed, and the building today is the the renovated version. To this day, the building serves as an artists’ residence. It is not open for tours.

Even if you are not interested in art history, it’s still a cool place to say you’ve been. And at the very least, it’s a good signpost on your journey through the neighborhood.

Rue des Abbesses

As your Montmartre walking tour comes to an end, make your way back to the main street of Rue des Abbesses. You should arrive on the street not far from where you started at the train station. This time you’re going to go the other way. This section of the street has — you guessed it — shops and restaurants.

This stretch feels a bit less touristy than the other direction and is more practical stores versus souvenir shops. It’s a good place to get an ice cream or a glass of wine. Otherwise, this walk can probably be done briskly as you’re out of the more classical Montmartre area at this point.

While you’re in the area, it’s worth it to finish your day at Moulin Rouge. Yes, that Moulin Rouge.

The venue has been hosting shows and performances since 1889, and today operates as a dinner theater. For about €200 a person, you can enjoy a full meal and performance at this iconic theater.

Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth it to see the marquee and legendary red windmill. There is a median in the middle of street where you can safely stand and take photos.

• Continue exploring Clichy Street, which is famous for its countless sex shops
• Walk over the suspension bridge at Parc des Buttes-Chaumont. To get there, take the 2 train from Blanche station across from Moulin Rouge to Colonel Fabien and then walk about 10 minutes to the park.
• Get cocktails at Lulu White, voted one of the best cocktail bars on Paris .
• Start your next walk around the Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower & the Seine Walking Guide

We’ve made it to the Eiffel Tower, and this walk is truly all about the Iron Lady. This section focuses on getting to the Eiffel Tower and enjoying all the best views of it. It’s a good idea to pair this walk with your visit to the Eiffel Tower, otherwise you may find portions of this walk redundant.

Technically, this walk in full is about 4 miles. That said, you can certainly make it much shorter by cutting down the portions on Rue Saint-Dominique and/or along the Seine.

Rue Saint-Dominique

Champ de mars, eiffel tower, trocadéro gardens, pont alexandre iii.

• Have a plan for getting Eiffel Tower tickets . If you’d like to go up into the Eiffel Tower in the afternoon or evening, be sure to book your ticket in advance. Tickets go on sale 60 days in advance and book up quick, especially for the summit. Otherwise, plan to arrive 15 to 30 minutes before the tower opens in the morning to beat the crowns.
• Start at Bleu Olive . This coffee shop is conveniently located near the start of Rue Cler. It’s a good option for breakfast to begin your day or for a coffee to take with you. Note: they’re closed on Sundays and don’t open till 10 AM on Saturday.
• Avoid Mondays. Many stores are closed on Mondays, which will make parts of this walk less fun.
• Take this walk in reverse . The walk along the Right Bank (north side) of the Seine offers stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. If you flip this route, you’ll be approaching the Eiffel tower and can enjoy the view the whole time.
• Bring a blanket. If you have a small packable picnic blanket , bring it on this walk. It’ll be nice to have if you spend time sitting on the grass at Trocadéro Gardens.
• Enjoy this walk in the evening . If you start around 2 or 3 PM (Tuesday – Saturday), you’ll enjoy a bustling market on Rue Cler and a lovely early evening at the Eiffel Tower. Watch the sun set from Trocadéro Gardens and then enjoy the City of Light by night as you walk along the Seine. Perfection.

Self-guided walk around the Eiffel Tower

The best place to start this walk is the La Tour-Maubourg station which serves the 8 train. If that’s not convenient, you can also take the 13 train to Varenne station. Head west on Rue de Grenelle until you reach Rue Cler.

Rue Cler is often said to be the most beautiful street in Paris. The market street is only one block long, but it’s jam packed with shops selling the freshest produce, local meat, French cheese, wine, pastries and more. It’s like it was made to build the perfect picnic basket to take to Champ de Mars.

Tuesday through Saturday the shops are open from 8 or 9 AM till about 7 PM. The market is only open until 2 PM on Sundays and nearly all the shops are closed on Mondays.

At the end of Rue Cler you’ll hit Rue Saint-Dominique. This street is lined with traditional Hausmann buildings, which is probably what you picture when you think of Paris. It’s a popular shopping street with Eiffel Tower views.

Most of the shopping is to your right, but the Eiffel tower is to your left. If you really are not interested in shopping or are pressed for time, you can turn left after Rue Cler and enjoy a smaller segment of this beautiful street. But if you have extra time, I’d recommend turning right so you get a bit more out of it. Continue walking until you hit Boulevard de la Tour-Maubourg. Then turn around and head back down Rue Saint-Dominique until you hit Champ de Mars.

Champ de Mars is iconic, but to be honest, it’s never what I want it to be. I always pictured it to be an open, flat park when you can have a picnic under the Eiffel Tower. However, there’s actually lots of trees and I feel like there’s always construction. I’d suggest walking through it, but if you’re looking for a place to sit I’d argue Trocadéro Gardens is better.

What Champ de Mars does offer, though, is a great approach to the Eiffel Tower. She looms large from this angle and you will be itching to visit the summit.

Ah yes. We’ve made it 7,000 words into this post before finally making it to the Eiffel Tower.

If you’re planning to go inside, be sure to check out my complete visitor guide to the Eiffel Tower . It has tips for where to enter, how to avoid lines, best floor order to visit the tower and more.

If you’re not planning to go to the top of the tower, you can still technically walk underneath it. To get there, you will need to pass through the security. Follow the signs for visitors who do not yet have tickets. After security, you’ll have access to the plaza at the base of the tower and can see it right up close. If you’re not going up, just skip the lines for the ticket office and proceed to an exit.

If you aren’t interested in passing underneath the Eiffel tower, you can simply walk around the outer perimeter and carry on to Pont d’Iéna. There’s also a carousel right by bridge, which is a highlight for children and Instagrammers alike.

If you ask me, the best views of the Eiffel Tower are from Trocadéro Gardens. This is the garden I picture when I think of picnics in front of the Eiffel Tower. From this hill, you’re treated to the best views of the tower, plus the Seine and its bridges. It has a great view of the tower any time, but one of my favorite times to come here is in the early evening when the sun sets and the tower starts to light up.

There’s lots of grass space to sit, so it’s nice to have a blanket. There’s also  food vendors at the base of the gardens, so pick up a crepes or drink before you head up the hill. You’ll also usually find hawkers unofficially selling Champagne and beer, which can actually be quite nice. It’s technically illegal to drink in Paris parks, but police are generally very lenient with beer and wine.

NOTE: In the provided map, Google does not think you can cross Avenue de New York at near the Eiffel Tower, but you can. There is a pedestrian walk sign at the street light here. So you can ignore that detour. 

Walk along the Seine

After you’ve enjoyed a good long sit at Trocadéro Gardens, continue your walk along the Seine for even more beautiful views of the Eiffel Tower. I like to the follow the north side of the river, which eventually becomes Jardin d’Erivan. This riverside garden is lined with trees which become truly stunning in the fall.

At each bridge you pass, turn around to get another epic view of the Eiffel Tower. You’ll pass three, counting Debilly Footbridge, before you get to Pont Alexandre III.

This decorative bridge was built in the late 1800s. It’s a lovely bridge, but mostly I note it here as one final amazing view of the Eiffel Tower. You can still see it from the next bridge too, but it really starts to hide at that point.

If you cross this bridge, you’ll head into Esplanade des Invalides which leads right back to where this walk began. Alternatively, if you turn left and head away from the river, you’ll pass between the Petit and Grand Palais and on to Champs-Élysées. And just like that, our walks have come full circle.

• Continue walking along the Seine, passing Tuileries Garden and onward toward the isles
• Take a boat cruise along the Seine and see Paris from a new perspective
• For a family dinner, get pizza at the hip and delicious Mokus l’Écureuil near Trocadéro Gardens

More From This Trip

• British Airways Business Class Review – 777 from JFK to LHR
• London Travel Guide
• Things to do in London with Kids – Family Travel Guide + Tips
• How to Use the London Underground – A Beginner’s Guide to the Tube
• Bankside Hotel London Review
• London Eye Visitor Guide – How to Visit the Iconic Ferris Wheel in London
• Stonehenge Visitor Guide + Inner Circle Tour Review
• Little Venice London Boat Ride Guide & Review
• Visiting London Transport Museum
• Complete Guide to Big Ben in London
• Borough Market Visitor Guide
• Best Views of Paris that Aren’t the Eiffel Tower
• Visit the Eiffel Tower in Paris – A Complete Guide
• Walking in Paris – 5 perfect walks through Paris with maps
• Paris with Kids – Planning Guide, Things To Do & Tips
• Montparnasse Tower Visitor Guide + Tips
• Amsterdam with Kids – Planning Guide, Things To Do & Sample Itinerary

Monday 28th of August 2023

thank you for actually being objective as to what you can skip! me & my feet appreciate it!

Thursday 7th of September 2023

Oh good! I'm happy to hear that! I hope you have a great trip!

Tuesday 21st of March 2023

This is a stunning post. Top marks for the maps of the routes! And a great read. Thank you.

15 Best Bike Tours in Paris for a Scenic and Historic Journey

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Getting acquainted with the many different neighborhoods and districts of France’s colossal capital is essential upon landing in the dazzling destination, which you can do by booking one of the following best bike tours in Paris .

Considered among the most interesting things to do in Paris , these cycling excursions help you explore every corner of the city, from the glamorous Marais district to the natural islands located in the Seine River, and everything in between.

Whether you wish to dive into the history behind the city’s most celebrated landmarks or travel out of Paris to see how life differs in the French countryside, you’ll find a tour to suit you.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• bike tours in Paris

1 – Paris Local Districts and Stories Off the Beaten Track Guided Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 970 reviews )

“From our meet-up in Le Peloton Cafe to the finish, this tour had a very comfortable, pleasant feeling, thanks to the people involved. Our tour guide knew the landmarks on our path well, and she had a friendly, engaging manner.” george, Viator

If you’re seeking a detailed introduction to the bustling streets of Paris, you need look no further than this cycling tour offered by Bike About Tours .

You’ll travel through the city at a leisurely pace, passing by numerous dazzling monuments that are significant in the destination’s history. These include Paris’ 17th-century city hall — Hôtel de Ville — as well as the charming Marais district, the Wall of Philip II Augustus and the Place des Vosges, where the city’s nobility once resided.

Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the Jardin-des-Plantes, which features over 10,000 species of plants while history buffs will prefer the remains of the Roman Arenes de Lutece on their wander through the inner city.

While you may be expecting a simple ride through the city, you’ll get more than what you pay for on this bike tour. The guides are extremely well-versed in the history of Paris and provide insightful commentary on its hidden gems from a local’s point of view.

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2 – Paris Highlights Bike Tour with Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Notre-Dame

Rating: ⭐️5/5 ( 584 reviews )

“Cecilia was an amazing tour guide – there was nothing she didn’t know. She also made the tour super fun.” elaine, Viator

Those who have just landed in Paris will no doubt want to see its most iconic landmarks, and you can do this over the course of just a few hours by participating in a bike tour through the city.

Operated by BLUE FOX TRAVEL , this excursion weaves its way past a spectacular array of historic monuments, including the Eiffel Tower — fondly known as the “Iron Lady,” which is a must-see for all tourists.

Other destinations visited on this tour include the Louvre , which houses the Mona Lisa, painted by Leonardo da Vinci in 1503, as well as the market street of Rue Cler and the UNESCO-listed banks of the Seine River .

If the worry of keeping up the pace on a bike tour has prevented you from booking one thus far, you do not need to worry. This excursion travels unhurriedly through the city, over flat terrain, making it one of the easiest options for tourists.

And, we love how bike tours, such as this one, enable you to gain valuable geographical information that will benefit you for the rest of your stay in Paris.

3 – Versailles Bike Tour with Palace Timed Entry Ticket & Marie-Antoinette’s Domain

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1844 reviews )

“Our guide was terrific! She was funny and informative. She made a rainy day on a bike a great experience. It was great to see the grounds of Versailles on a bike.” liz, Viator

Less than 20 kilometers west of the city lies the Palace of Versailles , which is easy to explore on a bike tour from Paris. After meeting your BLUE FOX TRAVEL guide, you’ll travel together to the former royal residence where you can discover several of its 2,300 rooms at your own pace.

Originally commissioned by King Louis XIV in the 17th century, this UNESCO-listed estate replaced a humble hunting lodge set up by King Louis XIII and served as a summer residence for Napoleon Bonaparte.

Alongside the palace, you’ll also explore the open-air market of Place du Marché Notre-Dame, which has been operating for more than 150 years.

If, like us, you wish to experience as much as possible of a destination when traveling, you simply must participate in a bike tour to the Palace of Versailles. This destination truly has it all, from history to architecture, art and tranquil gardens, and being guided through the attraction is the only way to learn about its fascinating past.

Read more: Best Versailles tours from Paris

4 – Paris Bike Tour Hidden Secrets in the Latin Quarter & Le Marais neighborhoods

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 504 reviews )

“Good tour conducted in the wet. Good rain proof protection provided and tour covered all that was expected. Good way to see some off the beaten track places. Guide with exceptional knowledge.” chad, Viator

The Marais district and Latin Quarter are two of the most visited neighborhoods in Paris, and for good reason. These areas showcase the roots of the city and are filled with architectural wonders, just waiting to be appreciated by enthusiastic travelers.

On this BLUE FOX TRAVEL tour, you’ll see the remarkable sites that often slip under the tourist radar, including medieval bookshops, cafes that have been frequented by the most celebrated faces in world history and the resting place of the great Marie Curie.

Other places of interest in these districts include the Memorial De La Shoah, dedicated to the brave heroes who aided Jews in WWII, and Place des Vosges.

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If you’ve already visited the most obvious and celebrated of the city’s attractions, this bike tour in Paris is a wonderful way to discover a plethora of secret spots, off the beaten path. You’ll be able to explore more of the destination’s many faces and learn about the little-known history of these alternative sites.

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5 – Paris Night Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 14 reviews )

“We love the experience!!! Everything is very organized! The guides do everything to make everyone’s experience as pleasant as possible!!! Highly recommend!!!” carla, civitatis

While Paris is spectacular during the day, the “City of Lights” lives up to its name after the sun sets. You’ll ride through the vibrant Latin Quarter alongside your Fat Tire Tours guide, before continuing to Île de la Cité where you can marvel at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris , which suffered great damage in a 2019 fire.

Not only will you embark on this exciting bike tour through Paris, but you’ll also have the opportunity to board a river boat and sail gently along the Seine River discovering a multitude of illuminated architectural jewels, and historic sites with a glass of wine in hand.

Hot tip: If you’re captivated by evening escapades, check out our comprehensive list of the  best night tours in Paris .

Best suited to experienced cyclists who feel confident weaving through traffic during busy times of the day, this tour provides an opportunity to see the city at its most breathtaking. The excursion itself is expertly organized, leaving you free to simply enjoy the views.

• bike tours in Paris at night

6 – Paris: City Treasures Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 ( 366 reviews )

“We enjoyed the trip, it was educational with some trivia questions that were unexpected, but loads of fun. Enjoyed cycling through Paris, a beautiful city with rich history.” hel, get your guide

One of the best bike tours in Paris, this excursion, operated by Simply France Tours , begins in front of the Hôtel de Ville — a 16th century construction, which serves as the main city hall for Paris.

From there, you’ll navigate your way to two of the three islands located in the Seine River , Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité. On the latter, you’ll discover the remains of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris before crossing the Pont des Arts and returning to the mainland.

While you’ll see some of the most quaint corners of the city, including the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, you’ll also explore destinations known for their savory history, including the spot where Marie Antoniette was beheaded.

The main highlight of this tour is the knowledge its guides have. From unusual historical facts to restaurant recommendations and shopping tips, these cultured individuals provide you with priceless information, bound to shape the rest of your vacation.

7 – Paris: Highlights 3-Hour Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 859 reviews )

“What can I say? Everything was great! The tour really covered the most beautiful highlights in Paris, but what really made it special was the guide.” renger, get your guide

Music and culture lovers will be awed by the first destination on this Holland Bikes bike tour in Paris — one of the city’s three original opera houses.

After learning the roots of the magnificent building, you’ll continue on through the city, pausing to admire a number of attractions that line the Seine River. You’ll cross renowned bridges, including the 17th-century Ponte Neuf, which connects the Île de la Cité with the rest of Paris.

Discover the Renaissance architectural style of the Hôtel de Ville, the glass pyramid shape of the Louvre and the Centre Pompidou — fondly named Beaubourg after its surrounding neighborhood.

While the route on this bike tour is meticulously planned and features fascinating landmarks, the personal touches and knowledge of the guides are truly first-class. We appreciate the effort the team goes to, to ensure they’re delivering new information to travelers and this excursion offers the perfect introduction to Paris for first-time visitors.

8 – Versailles Day Bike Tour from Paris

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 2063 reviews )

“We LOVED every minute of this tour. Fat Tire Tours did not disappoint. Our guide was JF and he was fabulous. Personable and knowledgeable, he made the day an outstanding one from the market to the gardens to the palace.” traci, Viator

See more of the opulent Palace of Versailles on this bike tour from Paris, operated by Fat Tire Tours.

After meeting your group in the city, you’ll travel together by train, disembarking at a station near the attraction. From here, you’ll mount your bike and get prepared to discover the most significant features of the impressive residence.

These include the Grand Trianon, constructed in a classic French Baroque style, as well as the Hameau de la Reine, built as a retreat for the Queen of France, Marie Antoinette, who was later executed for conspiracy and high treason.

Those who are hoping to create a core memory from their Palace of Versailles day trip can absolutely achieve an unforgettable experience on this tour. This is because, as well as an enjoyable cycling tour, the day trip includes an outdoor picnic in the grounds of the palace, with produce bought fresh from the local market.

9 – Paris Sightseeing Family Friendly Guided Electric Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 290 reviews )

“Amazing tour with great guides. We were group of 3, really enjoyed this day, great organisation, great bikes. Guide was really patient, informative and funny.” andrea, Viator

If you’re not quite up to pedaling for long distances across the many districts of Paris, you may instead consider a tour that takes place on an electric bike. You’ll be able to navigate the city’s streets without working up a sweat, enabling you to simply soak up the views.

There’s no need to worry if you haven’t operated one of these vehicles before as you’ll engage in a safety briefing before being let loose in the center of the city. Throughout this XL Tour experience, you’ll pass by countless awe-inspiring attractions, from the Place Vendôme to the Musée d’Orsay and Eiffel Tower .

If you’re looking for an all-inclusive overview of one of the most iconic European cities, you’ll find it here, with more destinations visited than on other excursions.

And, the best part of choosing this bike tour in Paris is that after your experience, you’ll be sent a collection of photographs taken by your guide, showcasing the fun of your trip.

10 – Paris: Charming Nooks and Crannies Bike Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 203 reviews )

“Awesome experience, such a fun way to find out about some of the quirky parts of Paris. Paul our guide was super knowledgeable, fun and guided us safely. Would definitely recommend this trip to others.” sarah, Viator

History enthusiasts will delight in this tour, which transports visitors on a journey through the oldest parts of Paris, including the Marais district, built up in the Middle Ages by the Knights Templar.

You’ll travel to the Île Saint-Louis, which covers approximately 27 acres, and cross the Seine River with your Simply France Tours guide to discover the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, as well as the Latin Quarter, famed for its book shops.

As you cycle leisurely through these areas, you’ll see attractions such as Place des Vosges, as well as the Hôtel de Sens — a 16th-century mansion, which served as a home for the archbishops of Sens.

This tour may not be for the faint-hearted, however, those brave enough to take on the bustling roads of Paris will benefit from learning to navigate the traffic like a pro. A winning feature of this tour is its focus on attractions that veer off the tourist trail and its collection of fascinating hosts.

11 – Paris Sightseeing Guided Bike Tour Like a Parisian with a Local Guide

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 854 reviews )

“This is the 2nd time I’ve done this bike tour and couldn’t recommend it enough! It’s a great way to see the sights, the guides are all friendly and make the whole experience fun and enjoyable for everyone” siobhan, Viator

This bike tour in Paris visits a number of conventional sites, such as the Eiffel Tower , Musee d’Orsay and Louvre to ensure that first-time visitors check the city’s main attractions off their bucket lists.

However, this excursion, hosted by Fat Tire Tours, also showcases some lesser-known monuments, bound to pique all travelers’ interests. These include the tomb of Napolean Bonaparte, who led France through the Revolutionary Wars and was later exiled to the island of St. Helena.

Other noteworthy landmarks seen on this bike tour include the city’s military training complex and the Hôtel des Invalides, originally used as a retirement home for ex-soldiers.

Hot-tip: Plan the perfect Parisian getaway with our ultimate Paris bucket list , filled with must-do activities for an enchanting visit.

Often raved about as the highlight of visitors’ Paris vacation, this tour is perfect if you simply don’t have the time to admire all of the city’s landmarks on foot. While the guides are an international group, each has a strong knowledge of the geography and history of Paris, which they can’t wait to pass on.

12 – Paris: Famous Monuments Cycling Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 19 reviews )

“I highly recommend this biking tour. We got to see so many different things around Paris and hear a lot of interesting stories and facts. Our guide, Simon was the best!” samantha, get your guide

A comprehensive introduction to the “City of Lights,” this tour begins by traveling to the islands situated in the Seine River.

Here, you’ll see one of the most beloved attractions of Paris — the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris — where you’ll learn all about its construction, from its Gothic architecture to its legendary gargoyles.

Moving on, you’ll journey through the Latin Quarter, over significant bridges and past historic squares. This sightseeing experience, provided by Bike About Tours, also features the staggering 330-meter Eiffel Tower, as well as the glamorous Champs-Elysées.

The only word to describe this cycling excursion is fun. With a thorough sprinkling of history thrown in and an easy route, this tour attracts a wide range of travelers, from children to pensioners, and everyone in between, keeping them all entertained along the way.

13 – Monet’s Garden Bike Tour from Paris

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 96 reviews )

“My son and I had a wonderful time. There wasn’t a part of the trip that we didn’t enjoy!! OJ did an incredible job with our group! The picnic location was beautiful and Monet’s garden and home were breathtaking!! A trip of a lifetime!! The bike ride was so much fun.” karen, get your guide

Those wishing to dive into the artistic background of France can do so by venturing out of the country’s capital to the quaint village of Giverny to explore Monet’s Garden.

This tranquil attraction is split between two locations, just a stone’s throw from each other, both of which belonged to the great 19th-century impressionist painter, Claude Monet.

Visitors on a Fat Tire Tours trip to Monet’s Garden will feel as though they’ve stepped into one of the artist’s masterpieces as they gaze upon spots that appear in his most revered works, including bridges and ponds filled with water lilies.

With tons of information about one of France’s most esteemed painters and a picnic in his famed garden, it’s impossible for visitors not to enjoy this day trip from Paris. The itinerary is entertaining, the guides are well-educated in all things Monet and the scenery is spectacular.

14 – First day in Paris : All inclusive Bike tour + Wine & Cheese tasting

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 18 reviews )

“Herbert was a fantastic guide. It was a great way to start your first day in Paris!” jody, Viator

If you’re looking for an authentic Parisian experience, why not participate in a bike tour that includes a wine and cheese tasting through Woyago ?

You’ll begin with a gentle cycle through the city, discovering a myriad of its most striking sites, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, as well as undiscovered gems within both the Latin, and Jewish Quarters.

After a magical ride, you’ll stop at the Place des Vosges, where the author Victor Hugo once resided, to indulge in local wines and cheeses, and admire the grand architecture that surrounds the square.

Aimed at those who have yet to be introduced to the French capital, this bike tour in Paris gives the only introduction to the city any traveler will need. And, in our opinion, the picnic at Place des Vosges is the cherry on top of a perfect day.

15 – Paris Street Art bike tour – Open Air Museum

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 15 reviews )

“This tour was awesome. Got to see the highlights of the huge murals in the 13th Arron. and got to see a side to Paris most tourists don’t get to see. The guide was very knowledgable and friendly. I highly recommend this tour for any street art lover.” noelle, Viator

Discover the vibrant colors of the 13th arrondissement by cycling to the Galerie Itinerrance, which was founded in 2004. A true reflection of the city’s thriving creative scene, this exhibition also attracts street artists from across the world, creating a multicultural collection from masterminds such as Roa and Evol.

As well as exploring the numerous murals that line the gallery’s walls, this Simply France Tours excursion also guides you to Station F, home to over 1,000 start-ups, from bars to leather shops and everything in between.

This area also features the street art of its own talented residents.

Whether you’re an experienced street artist yourself or are new to the wonders that can be created with a spray can, you’ll learn a host of interesting facts about both the murals that litter the 13th arrondissements and the artists who produced them.

We especially appreciate the alternative view of Paris visitors gain by participating in this excursion.

How to book bike tours in Paris?

There are a myriad of operators offering bike tours in Paris across a range of travel websites. Rates and discounts differ between sites, which is why using Tourscanner’s search engine is a must for securing the best deal.

As well as comparing prices, you can also see real reviews from other travelers, allowing you to determine which excursion suits you best.

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Visit the Marais, an authentic and modern place

This "village-like district" is still authentic. Because if it's a dynamic and young environment the tourists like to wander there a lot, in fact, the Marais is one of the most active districts in Paris where the LGBT community and the hipsters like to meet. The Marais is seen as well as a fashion temple as many boutique managers are talented and avant-garde stylists that cohabit with world well-known department stores like BHV Marais. 

Many pastry shops, restaurants, and bars are waiting for you to enjoy the authentic and local french cuisine or taste the exquisite french wine. 

If you want to hang out with your friends or your family this is the right place as it is an open and cosmopolitan district that welcomes diversity. Gourmet getaways are also proposed to initiate you to the French gastronomy.

Let the guide lead you through the Marais with Pariscityvision so you can discover this village within the city.