Which Arrondissement to Stay in Paris by Type of Vacation
One of the most frequently asked questions from visitors coming to Paris is, “What is the best Arrondissement to stay in Paris?“ The truth is, when it comes to where to stay in Paris, there is no one right or wrong answer.
What Arrondissement to stay in Paris very much depends on the sort of trip you’re planning. If this is your first trip to Paris and you’re planning on visiting many tourist attractions, then you’ll look for the best Paris Arrondissements for tourists or which Arrondissement to stay in Paris close to everything.
If perhaps you’re planning a trip to Paris with kids, you’ll probably be interested in knowing about the best Arrondissement to stay in Paris for families.
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» Plan: Paris Travel Planner; Paris Arrondissements Guide; Check out the best Paris Metro tickets for tourists
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» Where to Stay: Best Districts to Stay in Paris
- Le Pavillon de la Reine (historical 5-star hotel in Le Marais)
- Hotel La Comtesse (mid-range hotel with Eiffel Tower view from all the rooms!)
- Hotel Ducs de Bourgogne (super central 4-star hotel near the Louvre)
» Top-Rated Paris Tours & Tickets:
- Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
- Eiffel Tower Summit Access Ticket
- Seine River Night Cruise
- Catacombs Skip-the-line tour with VIP access to restricted areas
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» Don’t leave without travel insurance! SafetyWing Essential plan works well for long and short trips (from 5 days up). Can also cover electronics theft through their add-on.
To help you decide where to stay in Paris for your upcoming trip, I’ve written this guide which contains the best Arrondissements in Paris according to different types of vacations. This guide covers the best Paris Arrondissements for a family trip, a first-time trip, a romantic trip, a more local experience, and more.
This insider’s guide is completed with hotel and apartment recommendations for the type of travel you are looking for.
So without further ado, let’s find the best Arrondissements in Paris to stay in for your upcoming vacation.
Table of Contents:
- What is an Arrondissement?
- Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for Tourists
- Best Arrondissements to Stay in Paris for a Romantic Getaway
- Paris’ Best Arrondissement to Stay for a Luxury Experience
- What Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for a more Local Experience
- Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for Families
What is an Arrondissement?
Before I start discussing which Arrondissement to stay in Paris, let me explain what precisely an Arrondissement is.
Arrondissements are administrative areas within the city. In Paris, there are 20 different Arrondissements, all with their town hall (Mairie) and a mayor (Maire), as well as elected officials, a council, a politician, and so on.
The Arrondissements of Paris are not to be confused with the Paris Neighborhoods as an arrondissement is a much larger area which includes many neighborhoods or different historical areas.
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.
I suggest reading this article together with my Arrondissements of Paris Guide, so you have more details on the local vibe and things to see and do in each district.
GOOD TO KNOW: What is the safest arrondissement to stay in Paris? All the arrondissements suggested below are safe places to stay and explore.
Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for Tourists
Below, I’ve provided recommendations on the best arrondissement to stay in Paris for first-time visitors and tourists in general.
4th Arrondissement
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5 STARS | Paris 4 | NO | ||
3 STARS | Paris 4 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 4 | NO | ||
Apartments | Paris 4 | Up to 4 Guests |
The 4th Arrondissement of Paris is the district of Le Marais and Ile de la Cité.
Le Marais is located just east of the city center, in both the 3rd and 4th Arrondissements. Yes, that’s right, half of Le Marais is in the 3rd Arrondissement, and half of it is located in the 4th Arrondissement. I recommend staying in the area of Le Marais located in the 4th Arrondissement because of its central location and things to see and do.
First-time visitors will love walking around the area’s narrow streets, all lined with historic private mansions, gorgeous secluded gardens, lovely cafés, typical Parisian bistros, and vintage shops. The area is also home to some of Paris’ top tourist sites, such as Place des Vosges, Hôtel de Ville, Centre Georges Pompidou, and Victor Hugo’s House.
The part of Le Marais in the 4th Arrondissement is also home to the gay district of Paris (particularly around the streets of Hôtel de Ville), so you will see many rainbow flags in this area.
Ile de la Cité is also a great base for tourists in Paris. It was the center of religious and civil life in Paris during Medieval times, and as such, there are many interesting sights here to explore.
The most famous landmark here is Notre Dame Cathedral, but other popular tourist attractions include the Sainte Chapelle, the Conciergerie, and the Flowers Market. Given that Ile de la Cité is located in the middle of the Seine River, this is also the perfect place to explore life along the river.
With its lovely surroundings and proximity to various tourist attractions, it’s easy to see why Paris 4 is regularly suggested as the best Arrondissement to stay in Paris for tourists, and hotels here, especially the best hotels in the Marais, usually sell out fast! – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 4
5th Arrondissement
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4 STARS | Paris 5 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 5 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 5 | YES | ||
Apartments | Paris 5 | Up to 6 Guests | ||
Apartments | Paris 5 | Up to 3 Guests |
The 5th Arrondissement is another of the best areas to stay in Paris, particularly for first-time visitors. Located on the Left Bank of the Seine River, just south of Notre Dame, the 5th Arrondissement is the district of the Latin Quarter and the Panthéon of Paris.
One of the city’s most central districts, the 5th Arrondissement is perfect for sightseeing. The Latin Quarter is well known for its significant student presence, with several universities and higher education schools nearby. As such, you can also expect a lively student atmosphere with many little bars and cafés.
In this area of Paris, you will find beautiful medieval churches, charming squares, the Panthéon, the Sorbonne University, the Cluny Museum, the Arènes de Lutèce (Roman Arena), and the Jardin des Plantes.
For those in search of a central location and good value accommodation, any of the hotels in the Latin Quarter is an excellent choice – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 5
1st Arrondissement
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5 STARS | Paris 1 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 1 | NO | ||
2 STARS | Paris 1 | YES | ||
Apartments | Paris 1 | Up to 6 Guests | ||
Apartments | Paris 1 | Up to 6 Guests |
The 1st Arrondissement of Paris is the most central district. The area is well serviced by a range of hotels and public transport to enable visitors to quickly get around, making it a great choice if you’re after the best Arrondissement in Paris to stay for sightseeing.
Paris 1 is full of popular tourist attractions, world-famous landmarks, and some of the city’s most beautiful parks and museums. The list of the best places to visit in the 1st Arrondissement includes the Royal Palace, the Tuileries Gardens, the Conciergerie, the Louvre Museum, and the Seine River.
Other places to explore here include elegant squares such as Place Vendôme, Place Dauphine and Square du Vert Galant, the Covered Passages of Paris, and Les Halles – historically known as “the belly of Paris” – with many restaurants, food streets, and markets.
Given that this is the most central area in Paris, expect to pay a bit more for hotels than you would in the nearby Arrondissements. The hotels near the Louvre Museum are specially researched because it is a lively historical neighborhood close to everywhere.
With all the most famous landmarks in Paris within easy reach, it’s easy to see why the 1st Arrondissement is considered the best Arrondissement to stay in Paris for first-visitors – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 1
Best Arrondissements to Stay in Paris for a Romantic Getaway
What is the best Arrondissement to stay in Paris for a romantic getaway? Below, I’ve provided recommendations for the best Arrondissements which are perfect for a romantic weekend in Paris or a honeymoon in Paris.
18th Arrondissement (Montmartre)
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5 STARS | Paris 18 | YES | ||
Top place | Paris 18 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 18 | NO | ||
4 STARS | Paris 18 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 18 | YES |
One of the lovely places to stay in Paris for a weekend of romance is Montmartre, a historical area in the 18th Arrondissement. Here, you can spend hours with your loved one wandering the narrow laneways lined with ivy-clad buildings, stunning multi-colored buildings, and lovely little cafés.
Perhaps the most well-known attraction in Montmartre is the Sacré Coeur, which sits high on top of a steep hill. Climb the stairs to the church for romantic views across Paris, where you can even see the Eiffel Tower in the distance. During your wanderings in Montmartre, be sure to see the nearby Wall Je T’aime with “I Love You” written in various languages.
Other attractions in the area include the romantic Museum of Montmartre, the Montmartre Cemetery, and various locations where the movie “Amélie” was filmed. Nearby, you can also see the world-famous cabaret, the Moulin Rouge.
For couples looking for the best area in Paris for a romantic weekend, Montmartre is a great choice! – Click here for the best boutique hotels in Montmartre
6th Arrondissement
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5 STARS | Paris 6 | YES | ||
5 STARS | Paris 6 | YES | ||
5 STARS | Paris 6 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 6 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 6 | NO |
For a romantic getaway to Paris, look no further than the 6th Arrondissement. Paris 6 is best known for the neighborhoods of Odéon and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the beautiful Luxembourg Gardens.
Here, you will find charming narrow streets filled with beautiful architecture, fancy art galleries, first-class restaurants, and lovely boutique hotels for a romantic getaway. The best hotels in Saint-Germain-des-Prés are particularly requested and tend to sell out fast!
There is a great café culture alive and one of the best things to do here is to wander the cobbled streets until you find the perfect café to sit and relax while people-watching. Some great historic cafés that come to mind include Café Flore or Café Les Deux Magots.
Other things to do in the area include visiting the Saint-Germain-des-Près Church, joining a chocolate and pastries tour, or taking a stroll in the Luxembourg Gardens.
The 6th Arrondissement is also within easy reach of the Seine River and the Quartier Latin, making it an excellent base for exploring the attractions in these areas – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 6
4th Arrondissement (Ile Saint-Louis)
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4 STARS | Paris 4 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 4 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 4 | NO | ||
Apartments | Paris 4 | Up to 6 Guests | ||
Apartment | Paris 4 | Up to 4 Guests |
Within proximity to Ile de la Cité, you’ll also find Ile Saint Louis, which is a smaller and less touristy island. Its quiet life, seductive boutiques, historical buildings, and small-town feel make Ile Saint Louis the perfect area to stay in Paris for a romantic getaway.
For those visitors wanting to stay by the River Seine and being close to some of the most popular attractions in the city, Paris 4 – Ile de la Cité is the best place to stay in Paris.
Paris’ Best Arrondissement to Stay for a Luxury Experience
Where to stay in Paris for a five-star Parisian experience? Below, I’ve provided my recommendations for the best arrondissements in Paris to stay for a luxury trip.
7th Arrondissement (Eiffel Tower District)
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
3 STARS | Paris 7 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 7 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 7 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 7 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 7 | YES |
Home to one of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, the 7th Arrondissement is the best Arrondissement Paris has for a 5-star experience.
While a hotel with a view of the Eiffel Tower would be fantastic if you stay in the area, no matter where you go, you will see this iconic attraction.
Other wonderful things to do in this Paris Arrondissement include a relaxing dinner cruise down the Seine or a romantic dinner in one of the Michelin-starred restaurants in Paris (there are 13 in this district!). You can also explore the Musée d’Orsay, Les Invalides, and the Musée Rodin and its gorgeous gardens.
If you’re really out for a unique Parisian experience, the 7th Arrondissement is undoubtedly one of the best Arrondissements in Paris to stay – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 7
8th Arrondissement
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5 STARS | Paris 8 | YES | ||
5 STARS | Paris 8 | YES | ||
5 STARS | Paris 8 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 8 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 8 | YES |
Nearby the Eiffel Tower District, but on the other side of the Seine River, why not enjoy the stunning views from the top of the Arc de Triomphe at sunset or go shopping at the Golden Triangle?
Paris 8 is one of the best Arrondissements to stay in Paris for an exclusive French trip. This is the district of chic stores, haute couture houses, and large art galleries at la Madeleine; Paris 8 is also the district of the busy Champs-Elysées, some of the most beautiful historic hotels in Paris, the Grand Palais, and the green enclosure of Parc Monceau.
Being within easy reach of the Tuileries Garden, the Louvre, and the First Arrondissement, Paris 8 also makes an excellent base for sightseeing in central Paris – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 8
What Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for a More Local Experience
Which is the best Arrondissement in Paris for a more local experience? Below, I’ve provided my recommendations for the areas of Paris that are perfect for those who want to feel like a local.
10th Arrondissement (Canal Saint-Martin)
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
5 STARS | Paris 10 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 10 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 10 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 10 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 10 | YES |
If you’re not so much interested in all the Paris tourist attractions but instead would like to have a more local experience, the Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th Arrondissement is the perfect district to base yourself on.
The area of Canal Saint-Martin is one of the coolest areas in the city. Spend your days and nights strolling along the banks of Canal Saint-Martin, where you’ll find a range of little bars, vintage boutiques, and great restaurants and cafés. You can even take a canal cruise or hire a bike to explore the area along the Canal.
Foodies will also love this area, as there are many organic wine and cheese stores, craft coffee shops, and restaurants serving fantastic cuisine from across the globe.
Other things to do in and around Canal Saint-Martin include the Canal de la Villette, the new Atelier des Lumières (digital art), and the nearby Parc des Buttes-Chaumont – Click here to book your hotel near Canal Saint-Martin
20th Arrondissement (Belleville)
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
3 STARS | Paris 20 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 20 | YES | ||
2 STARS | Paris 20 | YES | ||
Apartments | Paris 20 | Up to 4 Guests | ||
Apartments | Paris 20 | 2 to 4 Guests |
Located in the northeast corner of the city, Belleville in the 20th Arrondissement of Paris is another excellent place to stay for those who want a more local experience during their trip to Paris. Belleville is quickly becoming a trendy area to live in and a great place to stay and explore the city, away from all the typical tourist attractions.
Perhaps the most well-known attraction near Belleville is the Père Lachaise Cemetery. Other things to do include exploring the Asian markets in rue de Belleville, seeing excellent street art, hanging out at trendy low-key bars, and exploring charming village-like streets dating back to a time when Belleville was outside the limits of Paris. Also, head to Parc de Belleville for great views of Paris (Eiffel Tower included!).
Belleville is also well located to explore nearby sights such as the Parc Buttes Chaumont in the 19th Arrondissement and the banks of Canal Saint-Martin in the 10th Arrondissement – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 20
Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for Families
If you are wondering where to stay in Paris with kids, I recommend staying central, where you can easily walk or take the metro to most places. The following Arrondissements are ideal for a family trip to Paris because they keep you central, with access to amenities, great transport connections, and quick access to city sights.
5th Arrondissement
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4 STARS | Paris 5 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 5 | YES | ||
3 STARS | Paris 5 | YES | ||
Apartments | Paris 5 | 2 to 6 Guests | ||
Apartments | Paris 5 | Up to 3 Guests |
This is the district of students, easy-going and relaxed. The area has many cheap restaurants, and Rue Mouffetard is an excellent street market to browse.
Paris 5 is also between two beautiful parks, the Jardin des Plantes and the Luxembourg Gardens (I have a self-guided treasure hunt for this park which is great for kids), so if the weather is good, you can opt for a picnic in the park where you can relax while the kids play on the grass. The food market on Place Monge (Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays) has everything you need for the picnic – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 5
3rd Arrondissement
HOTEL | CATEGORY | LOCATION | FAMILY ROOM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4 STARS | Paris 3 | YES | ||
4 STARS | Paris 3 | YES | ||
2 STARS | Paris 3 | YES | ||
Apartments | Paris 3 | Up to 6 Guests | ||
Apartments | Paris 3 | Up to 4 Guests |
Paris 3 is one of the best Arrondissements in Paris to stay for families. Very central, Paris 3 includes the less touristy part of Le Marais (Enfants Rouges and Archives neighborhoods) and the Arts-et-Metiers neighborhood.
Popular attractions in this district are the Picasso Museum, the Musée des Arts-et-Métiers, Nicolas Flamel’s house, and the Archives Nationales. It also has lots of choices when it comes to cafés and restaurants.
The area is served by metro lines 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, and 11, giving easy access to many top sights, which makes commuting with kids very easy – Click here to book your hotel in Paris 3
So there you have it, my complete guide to the best Arrondissements in Paris to stay, no matter what sort of vacation you are planning. What is the best Paris Arrondissement to stay in your opinion?
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