Paris is the capital of France, with a population of over 2 million people. It’s known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, and cultural attractions, and is a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. It doesn’t matter how many times you visit you still have to face the decision of choosing the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris.
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or neighborhoods, which are numbered in a clockwise spiral from the center of the city. Each arrondissement has its own unique character and atmosphere, and is home to a variety of attractions, shops, and restaurants.
Paris has many diverse neighborhoods to choose from, and the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris for you will depend on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do during your visit.
Here is a brief overview of each arrondissement:
1st arrondissement: Located in the center of the city, this arrondissement is home to many iconic landmarks, such as the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Garden. One of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris.
2nd arrondissement: This arrondissement is known for its shopping and financial district, as well as the Opera Garnier and the Galeries Lafayette department store.
3rd arrondissement: This arrondissement is known for its vibrant arts scene and its many galleries and studios. It’s also home to the historic Marais neighborhood.
4th arrondissement: This arrondissement is known for its historic charm and is home to many iconic landmarks, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Place des Vosges.
5th arrondissement: Located on the Left Bank, this arrondissement is known for its many universities and its lively student population. It’s also home to the Panthéon and the Jardin des Plantes.
6th arrondissement: This upscale neighborhood is known for its high-end shopping and dining options, as well as its cultural attractions, such as the Musée d’Orsay and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
7th arrondissement: This upscale neighborhood is home to many embassies and is known for its grand mansions and upscale shops. It’s also home to the Eiffel Tower. One of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris.
8th arrondissement: This chic neighborhood is known for its high-end shopping and dining, as well as its many embassies and theaters.
9th arrondissement: This vibrant neighborhood is known for its theaters and music halls, as well as its many shopping and dining options. One of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris.
10th arrondissement: This diverse neighborhood is home to many train stations and is known for its vibrant nightlife.
11th arrondissement: This trendy neighborhood is known for its lively atmosphere and its many bars, restaurants, and clubs.
12th arrondissement: This residential neighborhood is known for its many parks and green spaces, as well as the Bois de Vincennes and the Place de la Nation.
13th arrondissement: This diverse neighborhood is known for its many Asian restaurants and markets, as well as the Bibliothèque Nationale de France.
14th arrondissement: This residential neighborhood is known for its many museums, including the Musée de Montparnasse and the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine.
15th arrondissement: This residential neighborhood is known for its many parks and green spaces, including the Parc des Expositions and the Parc André Citroën.
16th arrondissement: This upscale neighborhood is known for its grand mansions and upscale shopping and dining options. It’s also home to the Bois de Boulogne.
17th arrondissement: This diverse neighborhood is known for its many shops and restaurants, as well as the Palais des Congrès.
18th arrondissement: This bohemian neighborhood is known for its vibrant nightlife and its many music clubs and theaters. It’s also home to the iconic Basilique du Sacré.
19th arrondissement: This diverse neighborhood is known for its many parks and green spaces, including the Parc de la Villette and the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie.
20th arrondissement: This diverse neighborhood is known for its vibrant arts scene and its many galleries and studios. It’s also home to the Père Lachaise Cemetery, where many famous figures are buried.
Best neighborhoods to stay in Paris that are often recommended for travelers:
- Le Marais in 4th arrondissement: This trendy neighborhood is known for its narrow streets, boutique shops, and art galleries. It’s also home to many popular landmarks, such as the Centre Pompidou and the Place des Vosges.
- St. Germain-des-Prés in 6th arrondissement: Located on the Left Bank, this neighborhood is known for its upscale shopping and dining options, as well as its cultural attractions, such as the Musée d’Orsay and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
- Montmartre in 18th arrondissement: This bohemian neighborhood is located on a hill in the north of Paris. It’s home to the iconic Basilique du Sacré-Cœur and offers great views of the city.
- The Latin Quarter in 5th arrondissement: Located on the Left Bank, this neighborhood is known for its lively atmosphere and its many universities, making it popular with students. It’s also home to the Panthéon and the Jardin des Plantes.
- The 7th arrondissement: This upscale neighborhood is home to many embassies and is known for its grand mansions and upscale shops. It’s also home to the Eiffel Tower.
Check out new hotels in Paris for your next vacation.
Paris is generally a safe city, but like any large city, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
In terms of specific neighborhoods, it’s generally considered safe to stay in any of the central arrondissements (neighborhoods), such as the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 9th. These areas are well-populated and have a mix of residential and commercial areas. It’s generally considered safer to stay in these areas rather than on the outskirts of the city. As always, it’s a good idea to research the specific area where you’ll be staying and familiarize yourself with any potential safety concerns.
Here are a few neighborhoods to stay in Paris you better avoid:
- 10th Arrondissement – Gare du Nord / Gare de l’Est area in the evening.
- 1st Arrondissement – Châtelet les Halles in the evening.
- 19th Arrondissement – Northern areas, especially in the evening.
- 20th Arrondissement – Porte de Montreuil after dark.
- 16th Arrondissement – Bois de Boulogne during the evening.
The best neighborhoods to stay in Paris for you will depend on your personal preferences and the activities you plan to do during your visit. It may be helpful to research the different neighborhoods in advance and consider factors such as proximity to attractions you want to visit, public transportation options, and the overall atmosphere.
