“What is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?” Is the single most frequent question I get from people when they are planning their trip to Paris. And it’s indeed a hard one.
Because, independent of budget and expectations, it can easily ruin your trip if your accommodation is not in the right place.
If you are not familiar with Paris, it adds to the challenge to find the best place to stay. But good for you that you found this article. I live in Paris for more than 20 years and know Paris inside out.
and I am eager to help you find the best neighborhood for your city trip.
So, in this post, I am introducing you to 3 neighborhoods in Paris that are fantastic for your stay in Paris. They are central, safe, easy to get to and with plenty of authentic Paris vibes, restaurants, sights, and bars.
Shortlist: The 3 Best Areas to stay in Paris & Hotels
If you’re hurry and eager to find out what are the 3 neighborhoods in Paris that you can’t go wrong with, here’s for you my shortlist:
- Opéra & Saint-Georges (Hotel Tip: Hotel Le Ballu, 4 Stars & wellness area)
- Marais (Best Hotel: Hotel Sookie, 4 Stars in the heart of the Marais)
- Quartier Latin (Best Hotel: Maison Colbert, 5 Stars at a stellar location)
Whether you are visiting Paris for the first time or not, these arrondissements in Paris are perfect for your stay in Paris.
CHECKLIST for your Paris Trip
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- 5 best ways to get from the Airport to Paris: Transportation Guide
- The best French Pharmacy Products to buy in Paris
The Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris
Finding the best location to stay in Paris is absolutely crucial if you want to spend a fantastic time in Paris. Because unsafe neighborhoods, long metro rides and few restaurants around your accommodation can be the biggest bummer. But where and what should you actually be looking for in Paris?
Paris Location Guide: What is an Arrondissement?
When looking at a map of Paris, you notice that it’s split up into districts. These districts are called arrondissements in Paris, and you have exactly 20 of them. These arrondissements are numbered and organized spirally. Similar to a snail shell, with the first arrondissement being in the very center of town. From there, they are winding clockwise around from 1 to 20.
Overall, all single digit arrondissements are considered center, while I would add the 10th arrondissement to the central ones as well.
But here it’s also important to keep in mind that Paris is small, and probably much smaller than you think. If you walked from the Louvre in the 1st arrondissement to the Sacre Coeur in the 18th arrondissement, it would take you merely 40 minutes, it’s less than 2 miles (3.22 km)
Arrondissements and Neighborhoods of Paris
It’s essential to note that an arrondissement is not the same as a neighborhood in Paris. An Arrondissement is rather an administrative district, that consists of 3 or 4 subdistricts. Each arrondissement in Paris has its own city house (mairie in French), a Mayor, a council, police and fire stations, and so on.
All arrondissements report to the Mayor of Paris, Anne Hidalgo, who sits in the Hôtel de Ville in the 4th arrondissement.
But, an arrondissement is, however, not a Parisian Neighborhood. The Neighborhoods of Paris are rather historical quarters with no administrative role. They are way smaller than an arrondissement and more descriptive of the area. Each arrondissement is very diverse in it own.
Hence, looking for the best arrondissement to stay in Paris is not the best way to tackle the task of finding a hotel in Paris. It’s better and more exact to look for the best neighbourhood in Paris when searching for places to stay.
This might sound picky but take for example the 18th arrondissement. It has the beautiful Montmartre neighborhood which is a great location to stay, but also Goutte D’Or. The latter has quite some character, to say at least, and I wouldn’t advise staying there if you’re looking for cute Parisian vibes.
When asking “Which arrondissement to stay in Paris” it’s better to shift focus on neighborhoods in Paris instead.
What is the best Location to stay in Paris?
The criteria for my “best hotel location in Paris” list are the proximity to sights, transportation, and the number of restaurants and bars nearby. But of course, all suggestions are some of the safest districts in Paris and very important: They have loads of flairs and authentic Paris vibes.
To make it a tad easier for you to plan your Paris trip and save a bit of time along the way, I also suggest a few hotels in said areas. They are among the most popular and best-rated hotels in the neighborhood, and are a safe bet.
The Best Neighbourhood in Paris: 3 districts you can’t go wrong with
The following 3 locations are the best areas to stay in Paris, and it is safe to pick a hotel in those areas.
You can’t go wrong if you want to have the full Paris experience. They are all in the safest arrondissements in Paris, very close to sights and overall, very authentic neighborhoods:
- Opéra & Saint-Georges (Hotel Tip: Hotel Le Ballu, 4 Stars & wellness area)
- Marais (Best Hotel: Hotel Sookie, 4 Stars in the heart of the Marais)
- Quartier Latin (Best Hotel: Maison Colbert, 5 Stars at a stellar location)
For a stay that feels even more personal, it helps to choose a neighborhood that matches how you want to experience Paris by day – and by night.
Beyond picking the right area, many travelers use Airbnb Experiences to discover a more local side of the city — whether through food tours, photography walks, art experiences, wine tastings, or hands-on workshops hosted by Parisians.
Pairing the right neighborhood with a local experience is a great way for you to get a more authentic feel for Paris beyond the main sights.
#1 Opéra: One of the Best Districts in Paris
The Opéra Garnier is one of the main sights in Paris and located in the 9th arrondissement. Thanks to it’s very central location, it’s one of the best arrondissements in Paris. The neighborhood between Opéra Garnier and Saint-Georges in the northern part of the 9th arrondissement is especially interesting due to its proximity to sights and restaurants.
When it comes to hotel prices, this neighbourhood is also one of the least expensive ones in central Paris. While not in a low-budget range, you can be lucky and score good deals here. Especially in terms of value and location for price.
Why is Opéra one of the best hotel locations in Paris?
The district between Opéra and Saint-Georges is one of those places in Paris, that really looks like… Paris. It is not the Paris of Amélie but the Paris of the Grand Boulevards, the imposing Haussmann buildings with their stunning facades, fancy department stores, museums, and lots of shopping opportunities.
If you are traveling on a tighter budget, the 9th has surprisingly many hotels that could be classified as lower-middle class. Even some really good-budget hotels are in the area. For example, the Ibis Hotel near Opéra is one of the most popular of the chain in Paris. You can see a more detailed description of it in my post about best Ibis budget hotels in Paris.
Good reasons for you stay near Opéra
- It’s an iconic and classic neighborhood, surrounded by impressive Haussman Buildings
- you are close to some of the most visited sights in Paris, including the Louvre, the Galeries Lafayette, Montmartre, the covered Passages and, of course, the Opéra Garnier
- Hotels are often less expensive, as in many other equally central districts of Paris
- You are in direct proximity to many good restaurants and some of the best cocktail bars in Paris. Rue Sainte-Anne, known as the Japanese district, is just around the corner as well.
Of course, Opéra has a few downsides as well. It can become very crowded, especially on the weekends, when people head out shopping at the Galerie Lafayette. However, as shops and businesses are closed during the night, you are a bit off the buzz during nighttime.
Also interesting read to prepare your trip: Things NOT to do in Paris & Mistakes to avoid
The best hotels near Opéra: Where to stay in Paris
If you want to stay in the 9th arrondissement near Opéra, the hotels below are your best options considering value for money, location safety, sights, and access to public transportation.
Hôtel Le Ballu ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- AirCon, Spa & Wellness
- Breakfast & indoor pool
- Close to Montmartre, Arc de Triomphe & Opéra
Opéra: Luxury Hotel: Fauchon l’Hotel Paris
The luxury boutique hotel is located just a few meters away from one of the most prestigious streets of Paris, Rue St. Honoré. It’s beautifully decorated and some rooms even have a terrasse. However, the best features are the pool and the spa area, also breakfast is included.
Opéra Upscale Option Hôtel Adèle & Jules
The hotel is located greatly close to the very center of Paris, with many shopping, cultural, and nightlife options. The hotel also has a fitness room and breakfast can be included.
The next Metro is just a few minutes away and connects you with the rest of town.
Opéra Midrange Option Grand Hotel Lafayette
This rather small design hotel is located in the center of the 9th arrondissement, not far from Opéra Garnier and the Galeries Lafayette.
Some rooms are equipped with a terrasse and the hotel has a wine bar and a wellness area.
Opéra Budget Option Hôtel de Genève
This hotel is excellent located. Right between Montmartre and Opéra. But you can also reach the Champs Élysée and even the Louvre on foot. The Hotel is also close to the train station with a direct connection to the Castle of Versailles. It’s a splendid choice with good value for money.
Important side note: Hotel prices went through the roof in recent years, so don’t be surprised to find the budget hotels not so much budget anymore.
#2 Marais: The best Paris district to stay
You find the Marais in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris. They are some of the best arrondissements in Paris for sightseeing and great vibes. The Marais lies on the right banks of the Seine (rive droite) and is a historic area. It was for long the aristocratic district of Pairs.
But don’t expect massive monuments, though. The Marais is rather a busy, quirky and cute neighborhood with a medieval flair, cobbled stone streets, and askew buildings. After the French Revolution, the Marais became a popular commercial area and home to the main Jewish community of Paris.
The Marais is also the center of the Parisian LGBT culture and a great spot for dining, shopping, clubbing, and sightseeing.
Here’s why the Marais one of the best areas to stay in Paris
The Marais is indeed a pretty cool place to stay and a very convenient base for you when visiting Paris. It’s perfect for everyone searching for a Hotel in the center of Paris. Because it’s not only brilliant for sights and activities, the 3rd and 4th are in fact 2 of the best Paris arrondissements that there are. And in this case, you can really consider the entire arrondissement.
The Marais is in direct proximity to many major sights like Centre Pompidou, Notre Dame de Paris, and St. Michel. It’s also very well-connected to public transportation. You will feel comfortable in the Marais if you enjoy an energetic neighborhood, and appreciate a massive variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Are you staying 3 or 4 days in Paris and wondering how to fill your days best? Check out our itinerary!
A few good reasons why you should stay in the Marais!
- The Marais is in the center of Paris.
- The district is nearby of Notre Dame, the Picasso Museum, St. Michel, and many others
- it’s a very lively district of Paris with many bars, pubs, and speakeasy bars.
- the Marais is easy to get to from airports and train stations.
- It’s a beautiful and old neighborhood
- It is one of the safest districts of Paris
- The Marais lays directly at the Seine, great for evening walks or picnics
- The Marais has great flair, a mix of cultures, and loads of positive vibes
Like everywhere, staying in the Marais has, of course, a few drawbacks. As the location is very lively, it can also be a bit noisy at night (many hotels claim to be soundproof though) and packed on the weekends.
What are the best hotels in the Marais?
If you want to stay in the Marais when traveling to Paris, check out the Hotels below! As the Marais is a pretty busy district, all hotels below are soundproof! (except the budget option). And of course close to public transportation, good value for money and located in a safe location.
Hotel Sookie ⭐⭐⭐⭐
- AirCon, Minibar & Room service
- Breakfast & Family rooms
- Close to Musée Picasso & Carnavalet, Centre Pompidou, Louvre..
Marais Luxury Option 9Confidentiel
The location of the 9Confidentiel is stellar. Right in the Marais, just a few meters from the Parisian town hall, Notre Dame and Rue de Rivoli – you can’t sleep more central.
The hotel is very popular and guests are extremely satisfied with the provided service and staff. Some rooms come with a great view of the roofs of Paris.
Marais Upscale Option Roi de Sicile – Rivoli
This spacious apart hotel lays right in between the beautiful Place des Vosges and the town hall of Paris, directly on Rue de Rivoli. Perfect for sightseeing, shopping, and dining out.
Most rooms are granting a great city view of Paris and some even have a balcony – there’s no better place for enjoying a glass of wine!
Marais Midrange Option Hôtel Marais Hôme
The Hôtel Marais Hôme lays in the north of the Marais, close to République. The hotel is very popular among visitors and ratings are the best in this price class.
It pampers you with a Spa area including a hammam and Sauna.
Marais Budget Option Le Compostelle
This hotel is one of the best-rated places in the Marais. And good for you: it is even almost a budget option, with a fantastic price for value ratio.
It’s lies by the town hall, in the heart of Paris and the Marai and close to most sights in Paris
#1 The Quartier Latin: The best district in Paris
The Quartier Latin is just a bridge crossing away from the Marais and is the best area to stay in Paris for sightseeing. This neighborhood lies the 5th arrondissement, which is one of the best Paris arrondissements for your trip. It’s on the left banks of the Seine, rive gauche. The Latin Quarter is also known as the arrondissement with the university district of Paris. Here you find not only the famous La Sorbonne university, but also countless other colleges and research centers.
That strong educational background even served as a name-giver: the language of universities during the middle age was Latin – hence, the Latin Quarter. However, the district is heavily influenced by students, and it’s also one of the most lively areas in Paris.
Is the Latin Quarter the best neighborhood to stay in Paris?
Yes, absolutely yes! Get ready for a very open and welcoming area of Paris, a vivid nightlife, a high variety of restaurants, and great shopping options. The Latin Quarter is equally popular among tourists, students, and Parisians – no matter if for shopping, having a beer with friends, or eating out.
Like the Marais, the Quartier Latin comes with a medieval flair and cobbled stoned streets. It’s the best place to stay in Paris. The Latin Quarter is also the best area to stay in Paris with family because with the Jardin du Luxembourg and the Jardin de Plants, you find abundances of things to do in Paris with kids.
What makes the Latin Quarter the best place to stay in Paris?
- It’s centrally located and very “Paris-like”
- It has a lot of flair due to the little alleys and pedestrian streets
- One of the nicest streets, Rue Mouffetard is in the Latin Quarter
- You have a direct train from both airports and from most train stations
- it’s close to St. Michel, the Jardin Luxembourg, Notre Dame, Shakespeare and Company, the Panthéon
- It’s full of great bars and restaurants
- The Latin Quarter is one of the safest districts in Paris
- The Seine is just right there, waiting for picnics, walks, and the real obligatory Seine Cruise
Thinking about the downsides of the Latin Quarter… I can’t actually think of any other than that it’s a rather upscale area, and you won’t too many cheap hotels in the Paris city center, but that’s about it.
What are the best hotels in the Latin Quarter?
The Latin Quarter is certainly your best option if you are looking for the best area to stay in Paris. It’s super central, full of sights and history, you have a copiousness of restaurants and bars to choose from, it’s easy to reach AND it’s a super safe Paris neighborhood.
When searching for a hotel, take a look at the accommodations below, they are the best value for money and among the most popular hotels in Paris.
Maison Colbert ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- AirCon, Minibar & Room service
- Breakfast & Restaurant on site
- In the heart of the Latin Quarter, close to St. Michel, Notre Dame and the Pantheon
Quartier Latin Luxury Accomodation Hotel D’Aubusson
This hotel has everything that you need to spend the most amazing time in Paris: a spa and pool to relax after a full sightseeing day, a jazz bar, and lovely city views.
It’s located in the best area in Paris. Close to Notre Dame and the Pont Neuf, right in the heart of town. A perfect district for amazing dining and shopping experiences.
Latin Quarter Upscale Option Hotel La Villa Saint Germain Des Prés
Just a few meters off the Boulevard Saint-German and nearby to some major sights of Paris: the Villa Saint Germain is truly in a good spot.
The rooms are very cozy. You can book massages or use their in-house fitness center if you need some relaxation. The hotel is in direct proximity to many bars and restaurants.
Latin Quarter Midrange Option Hotel Parc Saint Severin
If you are searching for a place right in the middle of everything, you found it! The hotel is surrounded by bars and restaurants, and the famous Notre Dame Cathedral is just a few meters away. Some rooms feature a private terrace – a great place to end a day with a glass of wine.
Latin Quarter Budget Option Hotel De Suez
From this hotel, it’s just a short walk to both: the Jardin du Luxembourg and Saint Michel and Notre Dame. The location is very convenient for dining, shopping, and sightseeing as you are near to many points of interest.
The hotel is very popular, and the ratings are the best in this price class.
Voilà, these are the 3 best areas to stay in Paris. Neighbourhoods that are close to sights, with lovely vibes and plenty of restaurants and bars around. Plus, you have very quick access to Metros and transports to explore the rest of Paris. Bon Voyage!
Want more Paris recommendations? Here’s my free Google Map with 200+ spots 🗺️
À bientôt,
Lena
Parisienne since 2006 🇫🇷
Sharing Paris life, French culture, cafés, food & honest travel tips
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NEW: The Salut from Paris Travel Guide:
Must-Haves for Paris:
- eSim card to stay online while in Paris. I used Airalo for my travels.
- You likely need a travel adapter to plug your devices.
- Travel Insurance – if you don’t have one, VisitorsCoverage is a good option.
- If your flight is delayed or even canceled, use AirHelp to get compensation.
Tours & Attractions:
- I book tours & activities through Get Your Guide or Viator.
- Museum & Landmark tickets can be cheaper on the official page, but they are often sold out.
- I love the GoCity Travel Passes for easy planning
Flights & Transportation:
- I use Omio to compare flight fares & connections
- Airport transfers I book through Welcome Pickup
- For car rentals, I use AutoEurope. It’s easy to compare prices
- Train Tickets, you can book through Omio
- Here’s my Parisian Metro Guide
Accomodation:
- Hotels in Europe I mostly book through Booking.com (check reviews carefully)
- Vacation Rentals through Airbnb or VRBO
FAQ The Best Arrondissement to stay in Paris
Which arrondissement is the best to stay in Paris for shopping?
The 1st and 2nd arrondissements are the best for shopping. It’s here where you find the massive shopping mall, Les Halles, but also Rue de Rivoli a d Rue Saint-Honoré.
The 1st and 2nd arrondissement are also close to the Marais, where you find an abundance on shops and also Metro line 1, that brings you without transfer to La Defense, where you find just another big mall.
Which arrondissement is the best for first time visitors to Paris?
For first time visitors, the Marais is wonderful. Here you find the old flair of Paris, with plenty of restaurants and bars. You are also centrally located to walk to many sights.
Which arrondissement in Paris is trendy?
The Marais is certainly a trendy place in Paris. However, the area around République, Bastille, the Canals St. Martin and Oberkampf is beating the Marais recently. It’s more alternative, with plenty of new bars, breweries, and hip restaurants. You find here as well many little boutiques and small labels.
Which Paris neighborhood is best to stay in?
Every neighborhood in Paris has it’s charm, but to favor a central area, it’s best to stay in one of the single digits arrondissements. They are the most central. For more precise indications, look for accommodation in the Latin Quarter, Marais, near Opéra, Saint-Germain-des-Prés or even Montmartre.
What is the safest arrondissement in Paris?
Overall, it is safe to assume that single digit arrondissements are safe. However, the 5th is the safest arrondissement in Paris.
Where to avoid staying in Paris?
Avoid the areas around and north of Gare du Nord and Gare de l’est. Also, Porte de Pantin, Porte de la Villette and Porte de la Chapelle.
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