Where to stay in Paris: best areas and neighborhoods
Open IndexParis, one of the most romantic cities in Europe, packed with wonderful attractions and things to do! But where should you sleep in such a large capital? The city is divided into arrondissement which have completely different characteristics and costs.
Here are our tips on where to stay in Paris!
In a hurry? Here's our recommended accommodation in Paris
If you're short on time, skip the boring research - we've already done the dirty work for you! Here are our top-rated picks for any budget, tried and tested.
| Category | Recommended Accommodation |
|---|---|
| 👑 5 star / luxury | Maison Albar Hotels Le Diamond |
| 🛎️ B&b & mid-range | PARIS RIVOLI NOTRE DAME Chambre d'Hotes Studio Private |
| 🎒 Hostel and low-cost | Hôtel Marena |
| 🏡 Vacation rental / apartments | PARIS 4 LE MARAIS Hôtel de Ville LIFT C A |
Useful tips: the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris
Foto di wheresleep.
| Target | Area | Rates from |
|---|---|---|
| Stay on a budget | Belleville | €70,00 |
| Families | Louvre | €100,00 |
| Le Marais | €80,00 | |
| Opéra | €80,00 | |
| Saint-Germain-des-Prés | €110,00 | |
| Grenelle | €90,00 | |
| Young | Latin Quarter | €90,00 |
| Bastille | €80,00 | |
| Montmartre | €80,00 | |
| Pigalle | €70,00 |
If you are short on time, the best neighbourhood to stay in is Louvre in the first arrondissement, the most central and overlooking the Seine.
If you are looking for nightlife, then you have lots of choice ! Among the most beautiful and lively are the Latin quarter, seat of Sorbonne University; the district of Bastille, full of night clubs and one of the most picturesque in the city; the Montmartre district, the artists' quarter, lively both day and night; and Pigalle, with the red light district and the famous Moulin Rouge!
If you are on a budget, but do not want to give up a bit of partying, we recommend the neighbourhood of Belleville.
If you are travelling with your family or seek tranquillity, one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in is Opéra, near Louvre. It is a very elegant area with all amenities. The district of Le Marais is also wonderful, stylish and trendy, and we also recommend the district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, not far from Musée d'Orsay, and Grenelle, neighbourhood located a few steps from the Eiffel Tower.
Best Accommodation: we have selected the best hotels, B&Bs and hostels in Paris. Check out our recommendations and make your reservation on Booking
Not recommended areas: in the evening it is better to avoid the areas near the stations, such as Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est as well as the northern suburbs of Paris, such as Saint Denis, Bobigny, Aulnay, Gennevilliers, Clichy, Sevran, Creteil and Montreuil.
Louvre e Île de la Cité (1st arrondissement), best for first-timers
- Pros: Central location, proximity to major attractions, beautiful architecture, good public transport links.
- Cons: Can be very crowded, higher prices, less "local" feel.
- Main Attractions: Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Sainte-Chapelle, Tuileries Garden, Palais Royal.
- Average Prices: From €100,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended accommodation
Louvre is definitely one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Paris, especially if you are only in the city for a few days or if it is your first time visiting the French capital. Overlooking the Seine, it is located in the 1st arrondissement, the most central. This is where the Louvre, Place de la Concorde and the wonderful Jardin des Tuileries are located. The district also includes part of Île de la Cité, the island in the Seine where the Sainte-Chapelle and Notre-Dame Cathedral are located.
It is a very central district with very high costs. Paris is an expensive destination and the more you look for accommodation in the centre, the more difficult it will be to find offers. In general, this area is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in culture and for those seeking tranquility. In fact, in the evening this neighbourhood is quieter than other areas.
Staying here will make it easy to move around the city. Some attractions are within walking distance, and the area is served by several metro stations, including Louvre-Rivoli, where line 1 runs.
- What to do: Sunset walk on Pont Neuf, picnic at Square du Vert-Galant.
- Where to eat: Café Marly, Le Comptoir de La Gastronomie.
- Where to drink: Le Caveau de la Huchette (nearby), Harry’s New York Bar.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €100,00 - compare the best accommodation on Booking
Opéra (in the 2nd and 9th arrondissements), best for shopping lovers
- Pros: Excellent for shopping, close to major department stores, good transport hub, many theaters and entertainment options.
- Cons: Can be very busy, mostly commercial feel, less residential charm.
- Main Attractions: Palais Garnier (Opéra National de Paris), Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Passage des Panoramas.
- Average Prices: From €80,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
The Opera district, located in the 2nd arrondissement and straddling the 9th, is one of the most elegant districts of Paris. Do not miss a visit to the Palais Garnier, the opera house! Shoppers can stroll through the shops of the Galeries Lafayette with its beautiful dome.
It is an area recommended mainly for those looking for a luxury trip in an elegant neighbourhood in a great location. It is also ideal for families, given the many services present. It is also wonderful in the evening, with the large illuminated avenues and clubs that welcome Parisians and tourists alike, but the nightlife here is not as wild as in other areas.
The neighbourhood is in a great location, halfway between the Louvre and Montmartre. It is served by several metro stations, and the Paris Saint-Lazare train station is not far away.
- What to do: Rooftop views at Galeries Lafayette, tour the Opera house.
- Where to eat:Café de la Paix, all the restaurants of Little Tokyo as Juji-ya and Omusubi Gonbei
- Where to drink: Danico, Le Grand Colbert.
Why I love it: The architecture is grand, and the shopping is world-class.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Le Marais (between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements), best for art enthusiasts
- Pros: Historic charm, trendy boutiques, vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary scene, many art galleries.
- Cons: Can be very popular and crowded, narrow streets, some areas can be pricey.
- Main Attractions: Place des Vosges, Picasso Museum, Centre Pompidou, Jewish Quarter, Hôtel de Ville.
- Average Prices: From €80,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
Le Marais is located between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements and is a refined and elegant neighbourhood, packed with trendy boutiques and art galleries. Overlooking the Seine, it houses the marvelous Hôtel de Ville town hall and the Musée National Picasso, and within walking distance you will find the Pompidou Museum and the Notre-Dame Basilica.
It is a neighbourhood ideal for those who are staying in Paris for a few days and want to enjoy its essence. It is a refined district, but at the same time trendy, where there is no shortage of clubs and typical Parisian views. Despite this, the nightlife is still contained, as it takes place mainly in the nearby Bastille district. It is also ideal for families, given the large green areas.
In short, its excellent location will make it easy to get around, bordering the Louvre and Bastille districts, the area is well served by the metro and buses!
- What to do: Explore hidden courtyards, shop at BHV, eat falafel.
- Where to eat: L'As du Fallafel, Yann Couvreur
- Where to drink: Bar Nouveau, Au Cœur du Marais
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Bastille (between 4th, 11th and 12th arrondissements), best for nightlife
Foto di jean-louis Zimmermann.
- Pros: Lively nightlife, many bars and restaurants, good transport links, close to Canal Saint-Martin.
- Cons: Can be noisy, some areas lack the classic Parisian aesthetic, can feel a bit less touristy.
- Main Attractions: Opéra Bastille, Place de la Bastille, Viaduc des Arts, Marché d'Aligre.
- Average Prices: From €80,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended accommodation
Bastille is a district located between the 4th, 11th and 12th arrondissements and is renowned for its lively nightlife. Opéra Bastille, the main opera house in the city is here, and its heart is the Place de la Bastille, where the Bastille once stood, where today a commemorative column stands. From here it will also be very easy to reach the Père Lachaise Cemetery.
Given its characteristics, this neighbourhood is recommended for young people and those looking for fun! In the evening it comes alive more than ever thanks to its many nightclubs, and Rue de Charonne, which is lined with independent boutiques and trendy restaurants! In addition, there are several hostels in the neighbourhood, ideal for saving money!
- What to do: Walk the Promenade Plantée (elevated park), visit the Opéra Bastille, and shop the Marché d’Aligre.
- Where to eat: Septime, Mokonuts.
- Where to drink: Bistrot d'Antoine - Restaurant Paris Bastille, Lennon Bastille
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Latin Quarter (V arrondissement), the bohemian neighborhood
- Pros: Bohemian atmosphere, historic universities, many bookstores and cafés, vibrant student life, charming streets.
- Cons: Can be very touristy and crowded, especially near major attractions, some areas can be noisy.
- Main Attractions: Pantheon, Sorbonne University, Jardin des Plantes, Cluny Museum, Rue Mouffetard.
- Average Prices: From €90,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
The Latin Quarter, in the 5th arrondissement, is definitely one of the most typical and lively districts of Paris. Full of bars and cafes open 24 hours and characterized by a typical Parisian atmosphere, it is also home to Sorbone University. Among the attractions here, are the Pantheon and numerous churches and museums.
Home to the unverisity, it is a neighbourhood recommended especially for young people and those looking for fun. The area is very lively, both during the day and at night, frequented above all by students and young people, who visit the many clubs at any time of day.
In short, staying here will allow you to get around the city easily. Indeed, the Latin Quarter occupies an excellent position: opposite the Île de la Cité and 4 km from the Eiffel Tower. The area is also served by metro line 10 and the Saint-Michel Notre-Dame train station.
- What to do: Visit the Panthéon, browse Shakespeare and Company bookstore, and relax in the Jardin des Plantes.
- Where to eat: Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie, Brasserie Balzar.
- Where to drink: Le Requin Chagrin, Caveau de la Huchette.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €90,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th arrondissement), the elegant neighborhood
- Pros: Elegant and sophisticated, famous literary cafés, high-end boutiques, beautiful architecture, central location.
- Cons: Very expensive, can be crowded with tourists, less diverse in terms of budget options.
- Main Attractions: Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church, Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, Luxembourg Gardens.
- Average Prices: From €110,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
On the same side as the Latin Quarter is Saint-Germain-des-Prés, located in the 6th arrondissement. It is a very elegant neighbourhood, characterized by the presence of boutiques, trendy clubs and restaurants and wonderful cafes, especially along the Boulevard Saint-Germain. Here you can stop at the Flore, one of the favourite haunts of writers of the past like Hemingway. The medieval abbey Église de Saint Germain des Prés, the oldest church in Paris, is also here.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is an elegant neighbourhood, ideal for those seeking luxury and tranquillity. In fact, there is no shortage of wonderful hotels, with splendid views of the Seine. It is also an ideal area for families given the proximity to the wonderful gardens of Le Jardin du Luxembourg.
This neighbourhood is also in a great location: it is located just opposite the Louvre district, naturally separated by the Seine, and borders the Latin Quarter. It is served by metro line 4, which leads to the vicinity of Montmartre.
- What to do: People-watch at iconic cafes, visit the Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and wander the Luxembourg Gardens.
- Where to eat: Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore.
- Where to drink: Prescription Cocktail Club, Bar du Marché.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €110,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Grenelle (15th arrondissement), best for families
- Pros: Residential and quiet, good for families, more affordable than central districts, good transport to central attractions.
- Cons: Further from major tourist sites, less nightlife, can feel less "Parisian" in some parts.
- Main Attractions: Champ de Mars (near Eiffel Tower), Parc André Citroën, Pont de Bir-Hakeim.
- Average Prices: From €90,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
Grenelle is a wonderful neighbourhood in the eastern part of the city, great to stay in to be a stone's throw from the iconic Eiffel Tower. Overlooking the Seine, it borders the Champ de Mars park and a short distance away you can find the Trocadéro and the iconic Hôtel des Invalides.
It is an area recommended especially for families, given the presence of large green areas and the Eiffel Tower, which is certainly one of the attractions that little ones find most fascinating! It is also a quiet area, but still equipped with all services!
In short, staying here means utilising public transport. You will be a little further from the centre, but the area is well served by metro line 6 and the Champ de Mars Tour Eiffel train station. In addition, numerous boat trips also depart from this side of the Seine!
- What to do: Picnic on the Champ de Mars, visit the Beaugrenelle shopping center, and walk the Île aux Cygnes.
- Where to eat: Le Petit Sommelier, L'Antre Amis.
- Where to drink: Le Bouquet de Grenelle, Au Dernier Métro.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €90,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Montmartre (18th arrondissement), the romantic neighborhood
Pros: Artistic and bohemian vibe, stunning views, charming cobbled streets, unique atmosphere.
Cons: Hilly terrain (many stairs), can be very touristy and crowded, some areas less safe at night.
Main Attractions: Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Place du Tertre, Moulin Rouge (on the edge), Dalí Paris.
Average Prices: From €80,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
Among neighbourhoods to stay in Paris, one cannot fail to mention Montmartre, the artists' quarter! Symbol of the Belle Epoque, it has a lively and cheerful soul. The neighbourhood is already an attraction in itself, but one of the most beautiful churches in the world, the wonderful Basilica of the Sacred Heart is also here.
It is a neighbourhood recommended for young people and those looking for fun. The area is very lively both during the day, when it is besieged by tourists, and at night, with its numerous clubs and restaurants. It is certainly not recommended for those seeking tranquillity or for those traveling with family.
Here, you will find yourself further away from the centre and the main museums, but the area is well connected to every corner of the city, thanks to metro lines 2, 4 and 12 and being close to the Gare du Nord train station.
- What to do: Climb to the Sacré-Cœur, find the "I Love You" wall, and watch portrait artists at Place du Tertre.
- Where to eat: Le Moulin de la Galette, La Boîte aux Lettres.
- Where to drink: Terrass'' Rooftop Bar, Le Très Particulier.
Why I love it: The winding cobblestone streets make me feel like I’ve stepped back into the 19th century.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €80,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Pigalle (18th arrondissement), best for nightlife
- Pros: Lively and vibrant, famous for nightlife, good transport links, edgy and artistic vibe.
- Cons: Can be noisy, some areas are known for adult entertainment, might not appeal to all travelers.
- Main Attractions: Moulin Rouge, Pigalle (various cabarets and clubs), Musée de la Vie Romantique (nearby).
- Average Prices: From €70,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
Right at the foot of Montmartre is the small district of Pigalle, which develops around the square of the same name. It is in the 18th arrondissement and straddles the 9th. The neighbourhood is famous for it's red light district and eclectic nightlife! In fact, the iconic Moulin Rouge is here, as well as numerous theatres and nightclubs.
Like Montmartre, Pigalle is also an area recommended for young people and those looking for fun, absolutely not recommended for families. Here you can stay up all night and immerse yourself in the Parisian nightlife. In terms of accommodation, you can find hostels as well as small hotels.
Pigalle is well connected to the rest of the city. Located at the foot of the hill where Montmartre develops, the district is served by Pigalle metro station where lines 2 and 12 pass.
- What to do: See a show at the Moulin Rouge and visit the Museum of Romantic Life.
- Where to eat: Pink Mamma, Buvette Paris.
- Where to drink: Dirty Dick, Le Lipstick.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €70,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Belleville (20th arrondissement), to stay on a budget
- Pros: Multicultural and artistic, authentic local feel, street art, panoramic views from Parc de Belleville, more affordable.
- Cons: Further from central attractions, can feel less polished than other areas, some areas can be gritty.
- Main Attractions: Parc de Belleville, Street Art, Edith Piaf Museum, diverse culinary scene.
- Average Prices: From €70,00 per night – Find top stays on Booking
Recommended Accommodation
Finally, we recommend the Belleville district, located in the 20th arrondissement. Part of the area is occupied by the Chinese community where you can find typical shops and restaurants. The main street is Boulevard de Belleville, full of places with outdoor seating, while Rue Sainte-Marthe is a quieter street lined with art studios. Do not miss a visit to the Parc de Belleville, with a wonderful view over Paris.
Given the distance from the centre, this area is especially recommended for those on a tight budget. Unfortunately, Paris is a very expensive city and it will be difficult to find affordable prices in the centre. Belleville, on the other hand, caters for those on a budget. Furthermore, it is a quiet area surrounded by greenery, therefore also ideal for families.
Here, you will find yourself further away from the centre. However, the area is served by Belleville station, where metro lines 2 and 11 pass. Line 11 goes to the Louvre, getting off at the Hôtel de Ville stop (just 6 min).
- What to do: Walk through Parc de Belleville for a skyline view and visit the Père Lachaise Cemetery nearby.
- Where to eat: Le Grand Bain, Le Jourdain.
- Where to drink: Combat, La Cave de Belleville.
Average prices in the neighborhood start from about €70,00 - compare the best accommodation on booking
Places to stay near Paris
In any case, whether it is your first time in the French capital or not, whether you have three days or more than a week available, staying in Paris is always the best solution. This is because it is a very large city, with many neighbourhoods and attractions that are quite far apart from eachother. As we have seen, the arrondissement are completely different from each other, really suitable for any need.
Sleeping outside Paris is also not recommended due to needing transport. You would find yourself wasting precious time traveling by train or other public transport, and that is without considering the cost of the ticket. The French capital is divided into 5 fare zones, with day tickets starting from €12,00 for the most central zones.
Paris accommodation price map
Guide to areas of Paris
Paris is a very large city, with over 2 million inhabitants and an area of 105 sq km. The French capital is divided into arrondissements, an administrative subdivision that divides the city into 20 municipal districts.
the most central is the first arrondissement, or that of Louvre. It is one of the oldest districts in the city and from here the remaining 19 arrondissements branch off in a circular way. Each arrondissement has its own characteristics and, in turn, are divided into smaller neighbourhoods. Some of these neighbourhoods, such as Le Marais and Bastille, straddle several arrondissements. In detail, we point out the most important arrondissements for tourism purposes:
- I arrondissement: with the Louvre district
- II arrondissement: with the Opéra distirct
- IV arrondissement: with the Le Marais district and part of the Bastille district
- V arrondissement: with the Latin Quarter
- VI arrondissement: with the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district
- XV arrondissement: with the Grenelle district
- XVIII arrondissement: with the Montmartre and Pigalle districts
- XX arrondissement: with the Belleville district
Cool things to do in Paris
- Sunset at the Sacré-Cœur steps: I spent an evening here just watching the city lights flicker on with a bottle of wine—it’s the most romantic view in the world, hands down.
- The "Secret" Passages tour: I loved getting lost in the Passage des Panoramas; it feels like traveling back in time to the 1800s with all the vintage stamp shops and old-school bistros.
- Nighttime Seine Cruise: Doing this at night is a game changer. Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle from the water while the breeze hits your face is a core memory. More info about the cruise here.
- Pastry Crawl in Saint-Germain: I spent a whole afternoon hopping from Pierre Hermé to Patrick Roger. Trust me, you haven't lived until you've tried a "Ispahan" macaron on a park bench.
- Picnic at Canal Saint-Martin: Forget the fancy restaurants for one night. Grab a pizza and some beers, sit on the edge of the canal with the locals, and just soak in the vibe.
Travel tips
- First time? Guided tour: Paris is huge. Book a "Free Walking Tour" of the Marais or the Latin Quarter on your first day to get your bearings and hear the juicy historical gossip.
- Language: Always start every interaction with "Bonjour". It is the magic key to French politeness. Even if you don't speak French, that one word changes the entire service experience.
- Transports: The Metro is your best friend. It’s fast and reaches every corner. Download the "Citymapper" app—it’s much more accurate for Paris transit than Google Maps.
- Payments: Cards (contactless) are accepted almost everywhere, but keep a few €1 and €2 coins for public toilets or small bakeries that have a €5 minimum.
- Dining Tips: Water is free! Ask for a "Carafe d'eau" instead of bottled water. Also, remember that "Service Compris" means the tip is already included in the price, though a small extra tip is appreciated for great service.
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