Welcome to your complete guide on where to stay in Paris France for first-time visitors. Paris is chock-full of some of the best luxury, boutique, budget, and hostel accommodations in the world.
This guide is particularly helpful for those wondering where to stay in Paris first time, ensuring your visit is memorable and hassle-free.
Additionally, we’ll delve into the best Paris neighborhoods to stay in to ensure your visit is as enjoyable as possible.
It can be quite overwhelming! From districts, safe areas, sights, prices, public transport and so on. This guide will cover ALL your questions!
We share first-hand the best areas for first-time visitors, families, couples and solo travelers.
We even included a big map with all neighborhoods and handpicked hotels for couples, families, and friends.
(This guide is always up to date, the last updated April 2024.)
- Best areas and handpicked hotels
- Families
- Couples
- Luxury Traveler
- Design Traveler
- Groups
- Solo-Traveler
- Nightlife-seeking traveler
- Budget Traveler
- Top 11 Sights (and their locations)
- Neighbourhood guide (to understand the difference)
- Safest area to stay in Paris
- FAQs
- Summary
But, first things first:
Question: Where to stay in Paris for a first-time visit?
Answer: My rule of thumb for first-time travelers is always STAY CENTRAL!
That means, aim to stay in the first 10 arrondissements or in English ‘neighborhoods’. But what are the best areas to stay Paris has to offer for a first-time visitor?
To help you decide, we will explore the best place to stay in Paris for different types of travelers. The city of Paris is arranged into different districts, starting in the center of the city, moving outward in a spiral direction.
Each of these arrondissements has its unique charm and attractions, making them ideal for different types of travelers.
The very city center includes
- 1st arrondissement
- 2nd arrondissement
- 3rd arrondissement
- …
- 9th arrondissement
- 10th arrondissement
Check the map below to get a better idea.
Why do I recommend these areas?
There’s so much to do and see in Paris, you need to savor every minute possible. The first 10 arrondissements provide you with easy access to all of the best museums, tours, and famous landmarks.
They also have easy transportation to the airport, bus and metro lines. That being said, don’t be afraid to venture outside the first 10, as some of Paris’ hidden gems lie off the tourist path.
Do you prefer staying close to the Eiffel Tower? Would you rather stay near the train station? Or do you want a hotel room overlooking the Seine River?
Here’s a full map for you to understand the different areas.
We highlight the districts, main tourists sightseeing in Paris and our handpicked accommodations.
Please note: those are not the exact names of the districts, neither its absolute borders. I just tried to simplify this information.
1. Best areas and handpicked hotels for Paris
Wondering where to stay when in Paris, especially as a first-time visitor? As mentioned, the city center of Paris is the perfect place for first-time visitors.
I also understand that different travel styles match different needs. I created an overview of this.
You will notice some areas are excluded or added to the previous recommendation.
Let’s see handpicked hotels.
Continue scrolling or pick your group and travel type on the menu:
1.1 Families
1.2 Couples
1.3 Luxury Traveler
1.4 Design Traveler
1.5 Groups
1.6 Solo-Traveler
1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler
1.8 Budget Traveler
Read more: We have a guide to the Where to travel in Europe for April.
1.1 Families
Traveling with kids can be tough, especially when trying to decide where to stay in Paris with family. European hotels can be small and cramped, you have to hunt down outdoor space for kids to play, and finding a family-friendly restaurant can sometimes feel impossible.
Luckily, we’ve done the leg work for you and tracked down the best places to stay in Paris, where to stay in Paris with kids.
- 6th Arrondissements – St. Germain
- 7th Arrondissement – Eiffel Tower
- 2nd Arrondissements
This map shows you the areas, recommended for families:
Handpicked accommodations for families
Figure out what’s most important for your family before booking. Would it be useful to have a kitchenette in your hotel room?
Are playgrounds nearby imperative? Are children too young to make public transportation easy?
Make a list of must-haves and narrow down your accommodation search from there. Here are some of our favorites:
Hotel Les Theatres
For a truly unique hotel stay, visit the Hotel Les Theatres.
The motto is: “A Parisian stay where you are actors and spectators,” and it provides just that.
From the moment you arrive, you’re transported into your own personalized theatre show. You can choose your accommodation theme and backdrop and pay tribute to some of the great French playwrights.
- Free breakfast and WiFi.
- Located in the 2nd arrondissement of Paris, in the center of the Theatre District.
- Only a few steps away from the nearest Metro Station.
Artus Hotel
Located in the Saint Germain neighbor, this colorful, boutique hotel is a great option for families.
The 27 room hotel offers an array of room types including suites, rooms with balconies, separate living quarters and duplex rooms.
There’s plenty to see, do and experience all without having them leave the Artus Hotel grounds.
- Free Breakfast and WiFi.
- Located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris.
- Great left Bank Location.
Résidence Charles Floquet
If you have a big family, then you know just how hard it is to find comfortable accommodations for families over 4 in Europe. Résidence Charles Floquet is an apartment-style hotel that can accommodate up to 8 people comfortably and is within walking distance, only a stone’s throw away from the famous Eiffel Tower.
- Free WiFi.
- Located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, next to the Eiffel Tower.
- Kitchen, washing machine, balcony and living rooms available.
Bonus: Gardette Park Hotel
Although I normally recommend staying within the first 10 arrondissements, this is one of my exceptions.
Due to the family-friendly, quiet neighborhood and the park and playground located right across the street, The Gardette Park Hotel is worth the recommendation.
- Located in the 11th arrondissement, right on the border of the 3rd arrondissement.
- Close to public transportation.
- Free Breakfast available.
1.2 Couples
Look at a list of ‘The Most Romantic Cities in the World’ and 9 times out of 10, Paris will be ranked #1. The French ‘City of Love’ is chock-full of some of the most romantic sites, streets, restaurants, and hotels. If you’ve never been to Paris as a couple, you’re in store for a wonderfully love-filled trip.
In this guide, we’ll explore where to stay in Paris for couples, ensuring your romantic getaway is as enchanting as the city itself.
The best areas for couples to stay in Paris are:
- 5th Arrondissement – Latin Quarter
- 8th Arrondissement – Champs Elysées
- 9th Arrondissement – Opera
This map shows you the areas, recommended for couples:
Handpicked accommodations for couples
It’s hard to go wrong when looking for a couple’s accommodation in Paris. Each neighborhood offers its own romantic ambiance, however, there are areas and hotels that will help set the mood for your perfect romantic holiday.
Hôtel Particulier Montmartre
A hideaway in Montmartre!
Take advantage of having all the privacy in the world while being just steps away from the best sights in Paris.
If you stay outside of the first 10 arrondissements, stay in the 18th Montmartre at Hotel Particulier Montmartre.
- Lush greenery gardens surround the boutique hotel.
- On-site restaurant and cocktail bar open for breakfast, lunch, tea time and dinner.
- Less than 10 minutes walk to Sacré-Cœur.
Hotel Les Dames du Pantheon
Steps away from the Luxemburg Gardens with beautiful views of the Pantheon, Hotel Les Dames du Pantheon is a couple’s dream hotel.
Lush colored walls and 19th-century charm, make this the most romantic stay in the Latin Quarter.
- Each floor portrays famous Parisian women, including Edith Piaf, Juliette Gréco, and Belle Époque.
- Only 450 meters from the Metro Stop.
- Easy walk to Musée d’Orsay, the Musée du Louvre and Sainte Chapelle.
Holiday Inn Paris – Notre Dame
When you have so many boutique hotels to compete with, it’s hard to be a fan of American chain hotels. The rooftop at the Holiday Inn Paris – Notre Dame will change your mind, especially with its stunning Eiffel Tower view.
The Holiday Inn is a comfortable, clean hotel in a great location in the Latin Quarter; but the real draw is the insane rooftop views.
- Take in the view of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the picturesque Paris skyline while sipping a bottle of wine from the lobby bar.
- Only a 5-minute walk from Notre Dame.
- One of my favorite secret hotels in Paris!
1.3 Luxury
If you’re looking for true luxury, the “Triangle d’Or” or Golden Triangle is the place to be in the 8th arrondissement. However…it’s Paris, you can find luxury hotels, restaurants, bars and shopping in every neighborhood all over the city.
- 8th Arrondissements – Champs Elysées
- 1st Arrondissement – Heart of Paris
- 6th Arrondissements – St. Germain
This map shows you the areas, recommended for Luxury Travelers:
Handpicked accommodations for luxury
Paris is luxury, and for luxury travelers, there’s no shortage of accommodations.
Four Seasons Hotel George V
You may have spotted Hotel George V in a few different movies over the years, as it’s the quintessential Parisian hotel.
The hotel is located in the 8th arrondissement, right off the Champs-Élysées and near the city’s most upscale shopping quarter. The stunning views, Michelin dining, and swanky amenities make Hotel George V one of the most romantic hotels in the city.
This means as well it is an easy walk to the Eiffel Tower and L’Arc de Triomphe. Personally, this is our favorite areas in the city.
Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel, Paris
Enjoy luxury at its finest at the Hotel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel.
Originally built in 1758, the Rosewood Hotel underwent an extensive renovation and reopened in 2018 amongst the top of Parisian luxury hotels.
- Perfectly located between the 8th and 1st arrondissement.
- Overlooks Place de la Concorde.
- Located nearby Musée de l’Orangerie, Tuileries Garden, Champs-Élysées Garden, and Carrousel Arc de Triomphe.
Le Bristol Paris
Le Bristol Paris offers spacious, bright and a classic style – perfect for the ultimate luxury stay.
Located in the impressive rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré at the center of Paris’ art and fashion district.
- Situated in the 8th arrondissement, nearby Champs-Élysées.
- Home to Epicure, a 3 Michelin star restaurant.
1.4 Design
Paris is a design lover’s dream. There’s a design inspired boutique hotel within every budget and every neighborhood.
- 4th Arrondissements – The Marais
- 9th Arrondissement – Opera
- 2nd Arrondissements – Heart of Paris
This map shows you the areas, recommended for Design Lovers:
Handpicked accommodations for design
A great design hotel is like a beautiful piece of art. Beyond the standard hotel, these design hotels offer accommodation a step above the rest.
Les Bains
Les Bains is a club that meets luxury hotel mixes.
Outdoor patios, on-site bistro, a luxurious spa, as well as a trendy bar and nightclub. Once the party house for legends like Prince, David Bowie, and Mick Jagger.
- Home to some of the most famous private thermal baths in Paris.
- Located in the 3rd arrondissement.
Hôtel Bachaumont
Hôtel Bachaumont is a hotel with an art deco, retro vibe.
Stylish restaurant with a glass ceiling on the ground floor.
- Located nearby trendy shops, comfortable cafes and two metro stations.
- Located in the center of the 2nd arrondissement.
1.5 Groups
Planning accommodation for groups can be a challenge. Everyone’s ideal stay is a little different. Luckily we have some hotel recommendations that will be sure to wow everyone.
That includes these neighborhoods:
- 10th Arrondissements – Train Stations
- 9th Arrondissement – Opera
- 5th Arrondissements – Latin Quarter
This map shows you the areas, recommended for groups:
Handpicked accommodations for groups
Depending on the group size, apartment-style accommodations could be the best option for groups.
MileStay Paris Montmartre
Nearby multiple metro stations, Montmartre and the famous Moulin Rouge.
MileStay Paris Montmartre features free WiFi, kitchenette with a dishwasher and in some cases, a balcony or terrace.
Le Matissia
A condo-hotel, spacious enough to accommodate 6 adults in a 2-bedroom layout.
With great views of the city and free WiFi, Le Matissia is perfect for group travelers.
Only a 10-minute walk for Gare de Nord.
Apartments Du Louvre
Located on a quiet street in the 1st arrondissement, Apartments du Louvre offers self-catering apartments for up to 6 people.
The stylish rooms are nearby the Louvre Museum as well as some of the best shopping and dining in the world.
1.6 Solo-Travellers
Paris is a great town for solo travelers!
Although, normally a very safe city – when traveling solo, I always like to use the motto “safety first”.
Stick to busy, well lite neighborhoods. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. That being said, I highly recommend a solo trip to Paris! Having flexibility when exploring a major city like Paris is a priceless experience.
Check out the 4 best solo accommodations in Paris:
This map shows you the areas, recommended for solo travelers:
- 9th Arrondissements – Opera
- 4th Arrondissement – The Marais
- 10th Arrondissements – Train Stations
Handpicked accommodations for solo travelers
For a little more room and kitchen accommodations, Airbnb is always a great option for solo travelers. Find all Airbnb in Paris here.
Generator Paris
Each room in Generator Paris Hostel offers contemporary designs with air conditioning and a private bathroom with shower. Some rooms also have private terraces for beautiful views.
And the hotel’s location puts you close to bars, restaurants, and vintage shops. Perfect to go for a walk and go exploring.
- Continental breakfast every morning.
- Shared lounger designed with North African touch.
Les Piaules Hostel
Les Piaules Hostel is nestled in the popular area of Belleville on the 11th Arrondissement.
You will find a snack bar and a library in the hostel. The perfect places to relax and grab something to eat.
- Reception is available 24 hours a day.
- Lockers are also available and games room.
Vintage Gare du Nord by Hiphophostels
Use the free fitness room to keep up with your health exercises in Vintage Gare du Nord. The hostel is located in the 9th district.
Rooms have a private bathroom and LCD TV. Reception is available 24 hours a day and offers free WiFi.
- The hostel has a fully equipped common kitchen free to use.
- You will also find vending machines inside the property.
Grand Pigalle Hôtel
Each room in Grand Pigalle Hôtel located in South Pigalle, offers free WiFi and includes a telephone, a radio and a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.
And if you’re looking for a place to eat, the hotel has a bar and restaurant that serves amazing food.
1.7 Nightlife Seeking Traveler
Paris is never short on nightlife. No matter the time or day of the week, Paris always provides something fun for those party animals.
If you are interested in party and nightlife, then I recommend you the following districts:
- 9th Arrondissements – Opera
- 5th Arrondissement – Latin Quarter
- 4th Arrondissements – The Marais
This map shows you the areas, recommended for nightlife:
Handpicked accommodations for nightlife
Nightlife in Paris is unlike anywhere else. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet bar, raging nightclub or a classy jazz lounge, Paris can accommodate.
Kube Paris Hotel
Located right between Montmartre and Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood, lies the Kube Paris.
An unusual, fun and unique experience, Kube Paris offers a post-apocalyptic vibe and an on-site Ice Bar.
Named “The One and Only Ice Bar in Paris.”
Le General Hotel
On the outskirts of the 11th arrondissement, right on the border of the 3rd is Le General Hotel. Popular bars, cafes, music venues, theatres, and restaurants make this the perfect hotel for a nightlife enthusiast.
St Christopher’s Inn Paris – Gare du Nord
Whether traveling solo or with a group, St Christopher’s Inn Paris – Gare du Nord has the nightlife you’re looking for without even having to leave the grounds.
The hostel’s on-site bar, Belushi’s has a constant lineup of entertainment as well as drink specials every night.
- A great place to meet locals and travelers alike!
- Just a couple steps away from Gare du Nord.
1.8 Budget Traveler
Paris can be an expensive city. Save your money on accommodation and put it towards the rest of your travels.
Whether you’re looking for a hostel, budget hotel, or apartment-style lodging, your price range can be found. If you’re wondering where to stay in Paris on a budget, despite the low price tag, each of our budget recommendations offers something special; an outdoor garden area, a rooftop bar, or the perfect location.
Here are some of our favorite budget hotel areas:
- 9th Arrondissements – Opera
- 18th Arrondissement – Montmartre
- 5th Arrondissements – Latin Quarter
This map shows you the areas, recommended for budget travelers:
Handpicked accommodations for budget
Traveler’s tip: The farther from the city center, the cheaper the accommodation. As long as you’re near a metro station, the city is at your fingertips.
Les Plumes Hotel
You will find Les Plumes Hotel near the famous Galleries Lafayette Shopping Centre. It is just a few minutes’ walks from Cadet Metro Station.
Each room is soundproofed and offers stylish rooms. There is also an LCD TV and a minibar for your convenience.
Hôtel Mistral
Just 10 minutes from Montparnasse Train Station is Hotel Mistral.
The rooms at the hotel are equipped with a minibar, TV, and telephone. Rooms also have private bathrooms that feature a heated towel rail.
- A buffet breakfast is served every day in the breakfast room.
- There is a microwave in the dining area you can use to pre-heat your foods.
Hotel Eiffel Rive Gauche
A former convent turned into a 3-star hotel is Hotel Eiffel Rive Gauche.
Have wonderful views of the Eiffel Tower right from your room patio. You can expect freshly baked pastries and assorted cheese from the daily breakfast buffet.
- The hotel can also organize a shuttle service upon your request.
- Reception is available 24 hours a day.
- It is just a 5-minute walk from the Champs de Mars.
Les Piaules
Les Piaules Hostel is nestled in the popular area of Belleville on the 11th Arrondissement.
You will find a snack bar and a library in the hostel. Rooms come with shared bathrooms that have a shower and toilet.
- Reception is available 24 hours a day.
- Lockers are also available and games room.
- The nearest station is Couronnes Metro Station.
2. Top 11 Sights (and their locations)
Considering Paris has been around for over 2,000 years, it’s no surprise that the city has accumulated some of the most iconic buildings, art, museums and landmarks in the world.
While the sights on our list are spread out, the Paris metro system can be a great resource. Familiarize yourself with the system and cruise around Paris with ease to take in all the top sites.
We’ve created this useful map with our top sights of Paris.
You can activate and deactivate the different layers in the left sidebar.
It shows you the locations of the 10 top sights in Paris so you can save and use it during your Paris trip.
The top sights in Paris are:
- Eiffel Tower
- Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris (with Saint Chapelle)
- Musée d’Orsay
- Sacré-Coeur and Quartier Montmartre
- Latin Quarter
- Avenue des Champs-Élysées (skip the line ticket)
- Sainte-Chapelle
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- Arc de Triomphe
- Les Catacombes (skip the line ticket)
- Louvre Museum
Although Paris is a beautiful walking city, it may be difficult to get to all of these sites on foot.
Try the metro, Uber and city bikes to make your sight-seeing a little quicker. Paris also offers a convenient Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour for ease and those who are short on time.
Tickets you should buy before (Must Read)
Read this section carefully! It will make a difference. Whenever possible, skip the lines and buy your tickets in advance.
Unfortunately, with Paris being a major tourist city, the lines can get intense. As soon as you’ve chosen your travel dates, book your tickets online.
We promise it will be well worth it to avoid the hours of waiting in line.
Here are the tickets you should buy beforehand:
2.1 Eiffel Tower Tickets
No surprise here, Eiffel Tower is our #1 must-see on our Paris list. With 7 million visitors a year, don’t take any chances and get your tickets ahead of time.
The sooner the better when booking, so you can secure your ideal date and time to see the iconic structure.
Is it worth it? Yes, the Eiffel Tower is 100% worth it. It’s one of the most pay-to-visit monuments in the world and for good reason. Take in the 360-degree views of The City of Light!
If you don’t mind a little exercise, try the stairs! It’s an experience on its own and the tickets are a little cheaper.
Note: Tickets do sell out! Best idea is get a Skip-The-Line ticket
2.2 Musée d’Orsay Tickets
Of all the museums in Paris, Musee d’Orsay is my absolute favorite.
The museum hosts some of the most well-known paintings done by Monet, Van Gough, Manet, Gauguin, Degas and more without feeling overwhelming or exhausting.
Although I’ve never personally purchased tickets to Musee d’Orsay online, it never hurts to come prepared, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
The museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of each month.
Tip: I always recommend visiting any museum first thing in the morning, to avoid lines and crowds.
2.3 Sainte – Chapelle Tickets
Sainte Chapelle is a Gothic style wonder, maybe best known for its truly remarkable stain glass windows.
Only a quick walk from Notre Dame, Sainte Chapelle was built to house priceless Christian treasures, including the Crown of Thorns.
When given the opportunity, it’s always smart to purchase tickets in advance – especially in a busy city like Paris.
Tickets range in price depending on if you want access to Sainte – Chapelle, the Conciergerie or rental of a HistoPad, all of which can be purchased online.
Bring your printed e-ticket or be prepared to show your e-ticket on your mobile device.
Tip: Free entry is available on the Saturdays and Sundays of the European Heritage Days (the third weekend of September) as well as the 1st Sunday of each month on off-season (January 1 – March 31 and November 1 – December 31).
2.4 Arc de Triomphe Tickets
The iconic Arc de Triomphe is one of those renowned Parisian landmarks that must be seen on any visit to Paris.
Built by the order of Napoleon I to honor the conquests of his army, the monument stands at the head of the famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées (also on the list of our must-see sights).
For a beautiful view day or night, the Arc de Triomphe viewing deck is worth the quick trip to the top.
Note: Don’t run across the street. Find the underground pass to get to the actual structure.
You can absolutely still see, touch and take pictures of the Arc de Triomphe without purchasing a ticket to the top.
Tip: Free entry is available under 18 years old, for EU residents between 18-25, on the Saturdays and Sundays of the European Heritage Days (the third weekend of September) as well as the 1st Sunday of each month on off-season (January 1 – March 31 and November 1 – December 31).
2.5 Les Catacombes
For a truly unique experience, I highly suggest visiting the Paris Catacombs. Take a tour 20 meters underground to visit the remains of several million Parisians.
Opened in 1809 to the public, these concealed mazes only allow 200 visitors at a time, due to preservation and safety reasons. Because of this, lines can stretch for 1-2 hours in the middle of the day during the busy season.
Note: Try to avoid mid-day and weekends.
Unfortunately, the catacombs are not wheelchair accessible.
Plan on wearing comfortable shoes and warmer clothes. It stays cold down there even in summer!
Extra: Paris Pass
If you’re planning to see and do all you can while in Paris, it might be worthwhile to check out the Paris Pass. This pass will allow guests easy access to over 60+ museums, landmarks, and attractions.
While providing an easy one pass ticket, it also allows holders to skip the line at various attractions, unlimited use of public transportation as well as access to discounts and special offers.
Attractions include the Louvre Museum, Palace of Versailles, Paris Aquarium Cineaqua, Arc de Triomphe, The Orsay Museum, Pantheon, Opera Garnier Guided Tour, Orangerie Museum, Saint-Chapelle, Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tours and many more.
3. Neighborhood guide (to understand the different areas)
As mentioned in the prior sections, central is best when visiting Paris, especially if you’re wondering where to stay in Paris close to everything. But what are the best districts in Paris for tourists? This part of the guide will delve into the characteristics that make each district unique and appealing to visitors.
As a tourist, you’re looking to see, do, and experience as much as possible, and your time is valuable.
Save yourself the hassle of trucking in and out of the city and stay within the first 10 arrondissements.
Although there are some great neighborhood exceptions outside (18th Arrondissement – Montmartre, being a favorite) keep in mind central is best.
Here is a breakdown of the best neighborhoods in Paris:
3.1 The 1st Arrondissement
Central Paris! Home to the Musee du Louvre, Tuileries, Jardin du Palais Royal and Pont des Art along with providing some fantastic views of the Eiffel Tower, the 1st arrondissement is a favorite.
Remember, with a great location also comes a great price tag. This neighbor is pricy for eating, drinking, and hotels.
For a 1st arrondissement, a restaurant favorite, try Café Moderne.
3.2 The 2nd Arrondissement
Directly next to the 1st arrondissement, lies a small but jammed packed arrondissement, Bourse – 2nd arrondissement.
Home to the textile industry as well as loads of trendy cafes, shops, and restaurants.
Walk the Rue Montorgueil to feel like a real Parisian.
For excellent 2nd arrondissement dining, visit Gallopin restaurant.
3.3 The 3rd Arrondissement
For the perfect mix of a quiet neighborhood and bustling pavilion, visit the 3rd district! Here’s where you can find the best of designer boutiques sprinkled with a few tourist allures.
Visit the recently renovated Picasso Museum.
Breakaway from the famous art museums and visit Musée des Arts et Métiers, a collection of history and science.
Get a sneak peek of the 17th-century mansions that once housed the noble families of Paris.
3.4 The 4th Arrondissement
Chic and trendy is the name of this neighborhood, which is popular with both tourists and locals.
This is the perfect neighborhood to have your dreamlike “Parisian café” moment, complete with red and white striped awnings and street cafes.
Home to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Place des Vosges.
Walk along the Seine and notice the scattered bookshops along both the right and left banks.
3.5 The 5th Arrondissement
The Latin Quarter is my absolute favorite neighborhood in Paris!
Originally named for the Latin language commonly spoken at the Sorbonne, the streets are the perfect mix of students, professionals, historic landmarks, Roman ruins, along with inspiring shops and restaurants.
Stroll down Rue Mouffetard and enjoy the shops, international restaurants, bars, and cafes. You can find a fantastic three-course meal for next to nothing.
Visit The Sorbonne, one of Europe’s oldest universities.
Buy a book at the famous Shakespeare and Company Bookshop.
3.6 The 6th Arrondissement
Once the old stomping grounds for the writers and intellectuals of the 20th century, the 6th arrondissement – better known as Saint Germain des Prés is now one of the most coveted neighborhoods in Paris.
Expect pockets of lavish gardens, designer boutiques, coffee shops and art galleries on your walk through the 6th.
Take a stroll through the lovely Luxembourg Gardens.
Enjoy a coffee at Le Procope, which claims to be the oldest café in Paris and was frequently visited by Thomas Jefferson and Voltaire.
Try our favorite 6th arrondissement restaurants:
3.7 The 7th Arrondissement
Finally the Eiffel Tower arrondissement! Due to the Eiffel Tower and Musée d’Orsay, the 7th district is well visited.
Known for being a very beautiful and a very affluent area, unless you’re looking to spend money or you’re dying to eat overlooking the Eiffel, it might be best to avoid dining here.
However, a visit to Rue Cler, just outside the Eiffel Tower block, offers relaxed cobblestone streets and a village-like atmosphere.
Regardless, you’ll love wandering the streets in the 7th district and will always remember your first Eiffel Tower visit.
Hosts a majority of the foreign embassies.
Outside of the Eiffel Tower block, you can find relaxed cobblestone streets and a village-like atmosphere.
3.8 The 8th Arrondissement
Located on the right bank of the Seine, this is where the rich come to play.
The famous Avenue des Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe call the 8th home along with posh hotels, Michelin starred restaurants and some of the most well-known shopping in the world.
You can find everything from designer flagship stores, like Louis Vuitton and Cartier to American chains like Gap and McDonalds.
Here are the best restaurants from the 8th arrondissement:
- Epicure – Expensive, yes. One of the best dining experiences in Paris, yes.
- L’Orriu di Beauvau – Moderately priced French bistro
3.9 The 9th Arrondissement
The 9th is a very diverse and international arrondissement. The Paris Opera, Les Grands Magasins are all located here.
Half of this arrondissement feels like an upscale haven for shoppers and rooftop diners and the other half, a somewhat seedy area where you need to watch your purse and wallet.
- Moom Mam Thai Bistro – Thai food that will blow you away
- TraLaLa – Contemporary French bistro
3.10 The 10th Arrondissement
Canal St. Martin, located slightly off the tourist trail is definitely worth the visit. Enjoy the tree-lined restaurants and cafes located alongside the canals as well as an array of artsy shops.
This is a great area to stay in as the price tag is cheaper but it’s still an easy commute to all of the tourist attractions.
Home to both major train stations, Gare de l’Est and the Gare du Nord. There are a couple of areas to avoid in this district so always be aware of your surroundings.
Here are our 10th arrondissement restaurant recommendations:
- Les Rupins – A French dining experience
- Yün Bistrot Franco-Cantonais – A Cantonese bistro and microbrewery
3.11 BONUS – 18th Arrondissement
Although my recommendation has constantly been to stay central, my favorite exception is Montmarte, in the 18th arrondissement. The artsy neighbor oozes a cool vibe and feels like its own village outside of Paris.
Shop the local galleries, watch the artists’ paint and take in the incredible views. Also home to Sacré-Cœurthe, the famous Moulin Rouge and the Salvador Dali Museum.
Not all areas of the 18th arrondissement are safe – keep to well lite and populated areas.
4. Safest area to stay in Paris
Now that you’ve gotten a feel for the best places to stay, eat and explore during your stay in Paris, let’s talk about safety.
Overall, Paris is one of the safest tourist cities in the world. And visiting the City of Light is no different than visiting any other major city in the United States when it comes to security.
Just like traveling through any large city, always use precautions and research the areas before you go. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.
Now that we’ve established that Paris isn’t a major security threat, is pick-pocketing an issue…absolutely yes!
Pick-pocketing and petty crimes have been an age-old problem in Paris forever. Although no area or neighborhood in Paris is completely safe, you should always be more mindful when riding the metro and around crowded tourist sites.
The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Champs-Elysées are well known pick-pocketing areas to be cautious of.
Here are a couple of Parisian pick-pocking scams to be aware of:
The Distraction
The thief pretends to find something on the ground; money, a bracelet, an unused ticket and asks if it’s yours.
If you say yes or act interested, they strike up a conversation or try and sell it to you…while their friend robs you. Or if you say no, their friend robs you anyways while you’re looking at the item.
It’s an old trick and the best thing to do if someone approaches you with this is to hold on tight to your belongings, say no and walk the other way.
Sign My Petition
I’ve seen this one a million times, both in Paris and all over Europe. Nice, young women approach you and ask you to sign a petition; while you’re signing your name or writing out your email you get robbed by their friend.
Another old trick. Again, just say no and keep walking.
The Metro Grab
Of all the people I’ve known to be pick-pocketed in Paris, this one has happened the most. (Including my six foot three, 240-pound father)
The thief picks a crowded metro car, or possibly someone distracted by their music or phone waits for the metro doors to open grabs a phone or wallet and takes off running. Usually, the target is too slow to realize, the metro doors close and the item is gone forever.
These types of robbers usually work in groups, so even if you think you can chase them down, most likely the item of choice has already been traded hands a couple of times.
To avoid this, always keep your phone in your bag. If you have a backpack or purse, make sure everything is buttoned or zipped and hold it in front of you. Keep all phones and wallets out of your back pockets.
The Tourist
This one is simple and the goal is to get you while your guard is down.
Thieves dress up like tourists at crowded sites, they ask something simple like if you can take their photo or where the nearest metro station is, and while you’re bothering with that, they rob you.
All of these scams are avoidable as long as you stay aware and keep your wits about you. For now, I leave you with some basic tips to avoid being pick-pocketed:
- Don’t keep anything valuable in your backpack.
- Limit what you carry.
- Put locks on your zippers.
- Don’t put anything in the back pocket.
- Keep bags in front of you when on public transit.
- Do not leave your belongings unattended.
Find all our articles to spend One Week In Paris here.
FAQs
What are the best areas to stay in Paris for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, staying central is key. Aim for the first 10 arrondissements (neighborhoods) of Paris, which include areas like the 1st to the 10th arrondissements.
These districts provide easy access to major museums, landmarks, and convenient transportation options.
Can you recommend family-friendly accommodations in Paris?
Yes, there are several family-friendly accommodations in Paris. Areas like the 6th Arrondissement (St. Germain), the 7th Arrondissement (near the Eiffel Tower), and the 2nd Arrondissement are recommended for families.
Hotels like Hotel Les Theatres, Artus Hotel, and Résidence Charles Floquet offer family-friendly amenities and are located in convenient areas.
Where should couples stay for a romantic experience in Paris?
Couples looking for a romantic experience in Paris should consider staying in the 5th Arrondissement (Latin Quarter), the 8th Arrondissement (Champs Elysées), or the 9th Arrondissement (Opera).
Hotels like Hotel Particulier Montmartre, Hotel Les Dames du Pantheon, and Holiday Inn Paris – Notre Dame are ideal for couples.
What are the top sights to see in Paris and should I buy tickets in advance?
The top sights in Paris include the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Musée d'Orsay, Sacré-Coeur, and the Louvre Museum. It is highly recommended to buy tickets in advance for these attractions to avoid long waiting lines, especially during peak tourist seasons. Online booking can also provide skip-the-line options for a more convenient visit.
Summary where to stay in Paris
There you have all the information about the best accommodations in Paris.
Are you traveling around Europe? Then check:
- Where to stay in Amsterdam
- best hotels and apartments to stay in London
- Where to Stay in Disneyland Paris
- Best Hotels in Tenerife for Couples
- Warm Places in Europe in December
- Where to Travel In Europe in July
- Where to Travel In Europe in August
- Where to Travel In Europe For February
- Best Hotels in Paris for Couples
- Where to Stay in Amsterdam on a Budget
Any Questions?
Do you have any questions? Doubts?
Please please please drop me a comment below or directly an email here.
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