Where to Stay in Paris 🇫🇷: Ultimate Guide to the Best Areas & Hotels

Choosing where to stay in Paris can feel overwhelming – the city has 20 different districts, each with its own unique charm and character. As someone who has explored every corner of the French capital, I’m here to help you find your perfect Parisian home base, whether you’re dreaming of Eiffel Tower views or seeking hidden local gems.

🏠 Best Hotels in Paris

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Maison Souquet
• ✨ 5-Star: La Demeure Montaigne
• 🏨 4-Star: Drawing House
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Hotel Eiffel Seine
• 💸 Cheap: Relais du Pré
• 🏢 Apartament: Hôtel Capfun Le Saint Germain, Paris
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Edouard VI
• 🏩 For Couples: Keppler

From the artistic heights of Montmartre to the medieval streets of Le Marais, this guide breaks down Paris’s best neighborhoods for every type of traveler and budget. I’ll share insider tips on which areas to choose for your first visit, where to find the most authentic experiences, and how to avoid tourist traps while staying connected to all the major attractions.

💁 Best Guided Tours in Paris

• Skip the Line Private Guided Tour: Louvre Museum from € 125 (⭐4.5/5)
• Secret Food Tours Paris from € 125 (⭐4.5/5)
• See 30+ Top Paris Sights in 1 Tour from € 125 (⭐4.5/5)
• Montmartre Walking Tour: Paris Best Art, Culture and Food from € 125 (⭐4.5/5)
• Paris City Segway Tour from € 125 (⭐4.5/5)

The Best Places to Stay in Paris: Quick Guide

• 🏙️ For first-time visitors and culture enthusiasts: The Marais
• 🌟 For families and Eiffel Tower views: 7th Arrondissement-Eiffel Tower
• 🎨 For art lovers and bohemian charm: Montmartre
• 🏛️ For history buffs and central attractions: 1st Arrondissement – Louvre
• 🍷 For foodies and literary vibes: Latin Quarter
• 🛍️ For luxury shopping and iconic landmarks: 8th Arrondissement-Champs-Élysées

1. Le Marais: Best Area to Stay for First-Time Visitors

First Impressions: Walking through Le Marais feels like stepping into a perfectly preserved slice of medieval Paris. The narrow cobblestone streets and historic mansions create an atmosphere that’s distinctly different from Haussmann’s grand boulevards. I’ve found the best time to explore is early morning when the light softly illuminates the ancient facades and local boulangeries fill the air with the scent of fresh croissants.

Cultural Fusion: The neighborhood seamlessly blends Jewish heritage, LGBTQ+ culture, and trendy Parisian life. Along Rue des Rosiers, traditional kosher restaurants like L’As du Fallafel serve some of the city’s best Middle Eastern cuisine, while contemporary art galleries and fashion boutiques line the surrounding streets.

Local Life: The heart of Le Marais beats strongest at Marché des Enfants Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market dating back to 1524. Here, you’ll find an authentic mix of food stalls serving everything from Moroccan tagines to Japanese bentos, making it an ideal spot for lunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

• Eating at tourist-trap restaurants near major attractions
• Not making dinner reservations, especially on weekends
• Visiting museums during peak hours (11 AM – 3 PM)

Here’s a comparison of typical costs in Le Marais:

Safety Note: While Le Marais is generally safe, be vigilant around tourist hotspots. Keep valuables secure and watch for common scams like petition signers or bracelet sellers.

Best Times: Visit early morning for photography and authentic local atmosphere, or join the lively evening scene when bars and restaurants buzz with energy. On Sundays, many shops remain open here while other Paris districts close – a rarity that makes Le Marais especially vibrant on weekends.

Well-Connected: The neighborhood’s central location puts you within walking distance of major attractions like Centre Pompidou, Notre Dame, and the Seine River. Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced, with a trip to Gare du Nord costing around €8-12.

Where to Stay in Le Marais

Best Hotels in Le Marais

• Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa – An elegant 5-star hotel overlooking the historic Place des Vosges, offering a luxurious spa center and one of the best places to stay in Le Marais district of Paris.
• Sinner Paris – This luxurious 5-star hotel in the heart of Le Marais combines avant-garde design with historical charm, offering a unique Parisian experience with its innovative restaurant, spa, and stylishly curated rooms.
• Hotel Les Bains Paris – A sophisticated hotel with a rich history in one of paris’s best neighborhoods, featuring a Turkish bath, spa facilities, and live music performances.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hotel de la Paix – A charming hotel in one of the best areas to stay in paris, offering comfortable rooms and easy access to local attractions.
• Hotel Beaubourg – A well-located property perfect for your first time in paris, situated near the Centre Pompidou and countless cafés.
• Hotel de la Herse d'Or – A cozy hotel in the heart of Le Marais, ideal for those who want to stay in one of paris’s most historic districts.

Best Hostels

• Hôtel de Roubaix – An affordable choice in the heart of Le Marais, perfect for travelers wanting to experience this part of paris without breaking the bank.
• Hotel D'win – A simple yet comfortable hotel offering great value in one of the best neighborhoods in paris.
• 212 Suite Louboutin – A stylish apartment-style accommodation that lets you live like a local in the trendy Marais district.

2. 7th Arrondissement: Perfect to Stay near the Eiffel Tower

District Overview: The 7th arrondissement unfolds like a living postcard, with the majestic Eiffel Tower commanding attention from its perch above the Champ de Mars. This prestigious neighborhood stretches elegantly along the Seine to the Fine Arts school, offering a perfect blend of iconic landmarks and authentic Parisian charm that makes it one of the city’s most coveted addresses.

Cultural Significance: This affluent district houses numerous legendary monuments and major museums that form the cultural backbone of Paris. The neighborhood seamlessly blends diplomatic presence, hosting UNESCO and numerous embassies, while maintaining its authentic Parisian charm.

Iconic Landmarks: The district is dominated by the Eiffel Tower, which was built to commemorate the French Revolution’s centennial and serves as the centerpiece of the 1889 International Expo. The Hôtel des Invalides, with its golden dome, houses Napoleon’s tomb and the Musée de l’Armée.

The area boasts world-class museums including:

Green Spaces: The Champ de Mars Park stretches over 24 hectares between the Eiffel Tower and École Militaire, offering perfect picnic spots and hosting various cultural events throughout the year.

Cultural Hub. Beyond the iconic tower, I’ve found the 7th arrondissement offers a perfect blend of grand boulevards and intimate streets. The area around École Militaire buzzes with diplomatic activity, hosting UNESCO and numerous embassies, while maintaining its authentic Parisian charm.

Dining Scene: There are diverse dining options, from Michelin-starred establishments to charming bistros. Rue Saint-Dominique acts as the neighborhood’s culinary spine, connecting major monuments while hosting numerous quality restaurants.

Accessibility: The district enjoys excellent connectivity with 10 metro stations and several bus lines. From here, you can reach Charles de Gaulle Airport in 38 minutes by train (€9) or take an 80-minute bus ride (€6).

Where to Stay in 7th Arrondissement

Best Hotels in 7th Arrondissement

• Le Narcisse Blanc – An elegant 5-star hotel in the prestigious 7th arrondissement featuring a luxurious spa, indoor pool, and Michelin-starred restaurant Cléo, just 15 minutes walk from the Eiffel Tower.
• Le Cinq Codet – A sophisticated hotel offering a blend of modern design and classic Parisian elegance, complete with a rooftop terrace and comprehensive spa facilities.
• Le Juliana – A boutique luxury hotel combining classic Parisian charm with contemporary comfort, situated in one of the most prestigious areas near Invalides.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hôtel La Comtesse – A charming hotel offering stunning Eiffel Tower views from many of its rooms, perfect for romantic stays in the heart of Paris.
• Le Walt – An art-inspired boutique hotel providing comfortable accommodation with artistic flair near the Champ de Mars.
• Royal Phare – A welcoming hotel offering great value in an excellent location, just steps away from the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides.

Best Hostels

• Hotel Amélie – A cozy budget-friendly option providing comfortable rooms in one of Paris’s most desirable neighborhoods.
• Derby Eiffel Hotel – A charming affordable hotel offering excellent value with its prime location near the Eiffel Tower.
• Studio Bourdonnais – A practical apartment-style accommodation perfect for independent travelers seeking a home-like atmosphere in central Paris.

3. Montmartre: Where to Stay in Paris for Bohemian Charm

Village Vibes: Perched atop Paris’s highest hill, Montmartre captivates with its cobblestone streets and village-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustling metropolis below. The winding lanes reveal a timeless charm where artists set up their easels in hidden squares, locals chat outside century-old boulangeries, and every corner tells a story of the neighborhood’s bohemian past.

Cultural Heritage: The neighborhood seamlessly blends artistic history with contemporary Parisian life, where the ghosts of Van Gogh, Picasso, and Renoir still linger in the quiet corners. The area’s creative spirit lives on at Place du Tertre, where local artists set up their easels daily.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in Montmartre:

Hidden Gardens: Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet, tucked behind Sacré-Cœur, offers one of the most peaceful views of the basilica away from the tourist crowds. The tranquil Renoir Gardens behind the Musée de Montmartre provide a perfect escape from the bustling streets, where you can imagine the great impressionist finding inspiration for his masterpieces.

Common Tourist Mistakes to Avoid:

• Eating at tourist-trap restaurants near Sacré-Cœur
• Falling for common scams like bracelet tricksters
• Missing the early morning or sunset views

Secret Passages: Beyond the tourist hotspots, the real magic lies in lesser-known spots like the last remaining vineyard, Clos Montmartre, and the charming Rue de l’Abreuvoir with its iconic pink house. Hidden impasses (dead-end streets) like Villa Leandre transport you to what feels like the English countryside, complete with art-deco houses and unexpected architectural gems.

Safety Note: While generally safe, be vigilant around tourist hotspots, especially near the Sacré-Cœur steps. Keep valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings, particularly during busy evening hours.

Transportation Hub: This area of Paris is well-connected with multiple metro stations, including Abbesses and Lamarck-Caulaincourt. For those wanting to avoid the steep climb, the Montmartrobus loops through the neighborhood’s key points.

Where to Stay in Montmartre

Best Hotels in Montmartre

• Manolita Paris – A sophisticated 5-star hotel in one of the best neighborhoods in Paris, offering stunning views of Montmartre and exceptional service just steps from the iconic Sacré-Coeur.
  
• Maison Souquet – An opulent boutique hotel in Paris housed in a former Belle Époque pleasure house, featuring individually designed rooms and an exclusive spa with private pool access.
  
• Aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre – A hidden gem nestled in a private garden that offers an exclusive retreat in the heart of Montmartre, perfect for those seeking a unique paris hotel experience.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Timhotel Montmartre – A charming hotel offering fantastic value with breathtaking views of Paris from its hilltop location in one of the city’s most artistic districts.
• Hotel Apolonia Paris Montmartre – A comfortable choice for your first trip to Paris, situated in a quiet residential area while remaining close to major attractions.
• Hotel de Flore – A well-located property in the heart of Montmartre that provides easy access to explore the best places in Paris.

Best Hostels

• Hotel Audran – A cozy budget-friendly option in one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris, offering clean rooms and authentic local atmosphere.
• Regyn's Montmartre – An intimate hotel with some rooms offering spectacular views of Paris, perfect for those wanting to stay in the heart of the artistic district.
• Avenir Hotel Montmartre – A simple yet comfortable choice for those seeking to spend in Paris without breaking the bank while enjoying the authentic Montmartre experience.

4. The 1st Arrondissement: Best Neighborhood in Paris for History Buffs

Royal Presence: The grand boulevards and elegant arcades tell stories of French monarchy, where every corner whispers tales of royal intrigue. Walking through Place Vendôme, I watch as the golden square comes alive with the soft light reflecting off its historic facades.

Hidden Passages: The covered passages of the 1st arrondissement offer shelter from rain and surprising discoveries, from vintage bookshops to traditional toy stores. My favorite is Galerie Véro-Dodat, where time seems to stand still among its perfectly preserved 19th-century shop fronts.

Here’s what you can expect to pay for main attractions:

Shopping Excellence: Rue Saint-Honoré hosts the world’s most prestigious fashion houses, while the Colette concept store pioneered global retail trends. The covered passages offer a more intimate shopping experience with their specialist boutiques and antiquarian bookshops.

Gourmet Paradise: The area between Les Halles and Rue Montorgueil transforms into a food lover’s heaven, especially during weekend mornings. I’ve discovered that the best artisanal cheese shops offer tastings if you visit during quieter afternoon hours.Must-visit specialty food shops:

• Stohrer (oldest patisserie in Paris)
• La Maison de la Truffe
• E. Dehillerin (Julia Child’s favorite cookware shop)
• À la Mère de Famille (historic chocolate maker)

Artistic Legacy: The district’s artistic heritage extends beyond the Louvre, with numerous galleries in Place Vendôme and Rue de Rivoli showcasing contemporary works. The former studio spaces of great artists now house innovative galleries and design workshops.

Evening Charm: As night falls, the district transforms with illuminated monuments and intimate wine bars coming to life. The area around Rue Jean-Jacques Rousseau offers some of Paris’s most atmospheric evening dining spots.

Walking Distance: One of the greatest advantages of staying in the 1st is that most attractions are within walking distance. You can easily reach Notre Dame, Le Marais, and even cross the Seine to visit Musée d’Orsay on foot.

Where to Stay in The 1st Arrondissement

Best Hotels in The 1st Arrondissement

• Le Meurice – Dorchester Collection – A legendary palace hotel near the Louvre that represents the pinnacle of Parisian luxury with its Alain Ducasse restaurant and comprehensive spa facilities.
• La Clef Louvre Paris – An elegant aparthotel in one of the best neighborhoods in Paris, offering a perfect blend of hotel services and apartment-style living near major attractions.
• Hôtel Regina Louvre – A historic luxury hotel facing the Tuileries Gardens that embodies the classic Parisian experience with stunning views of the city’s landmarks.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• La Dépendance – A charming boutique hotel that puts you right in the heart of Paris, perfect for your first trip to the city.
• WS Louvre - Saint Roch – Modern apartments offering a chance to live like a local in Paris while staying near the city’s main attractions.
• Hôtel du Continent – A stylish hotel in the best arrondissement to stay in Paris, designed by Christian Lacroix.

Best Hostels

• Hôtel Montpensier – An affordable choice near the Louvre that’s perfect for those wanting to stay in the heart of the city without breaking the bank.
• Hôtel Flor Rivoli – A simple yet comfortable hotel that offers great value for those looking to spend more time exploring Paris than in their room.
• Hôtel Saint-Roch – A cozy budget hotel that puts you within walking distance of the Louvre and other major attractions in Paris.

5. Latin Quarter: Best for Foodies

Student Life: The ancient streets around the Sorbonne buzz with intellectual energy, where centuries of academic tradition blend with modern student life. I watched as students fill the historic cafés with animated discussions, just as Sartre and de Beauvoir once did at Les Deux Magots.

Market Scene: Rue Mouffetard transforms into a gourmet paradise, especially during weekend mornings when the street becomes a vibrant tapestry of food stalls and specialty shops. The vendors here still follow centuries-old traditions, calling out their daily specials in melodic French.

Popular Market Streets by Time of Day:

Literary Legacy: Tucked between medieval buildings, you’ll find some of Paris’s most cherished bookshops, where the tradition of intellectual discourse lives on. Shakespeare and Company serves as both a bookstore and a cultural institution, hosting readings and welcoming wandering writers.

Garden Secrets: The Jardin des Plantes offers more than just beautiful landscapes – it houses one of Europe’s oldest botanical gardens and a charming zoo. I’ve spent countless afternoons watching students sketch rare plants while locals tend to their assigned garden plots.

Academic Calendar: The neighborhood’s rhythm follows the university schedule, making September-October and March-April particularly vibrant months. These periods bring special cultural events and academic conferences open to the public.

Transport Access: This part of the city benefits from excellent bus connectivity, which is the most accessible option for all travelers. All Paris bus lines are equipped with ramps and lowering devices, making them particularly convenient for those with limited mobility.

Where to Stay in Latin Quarter

Best Hotels in Latin Quarter

• Maison Colbert – Located in one of the best neighborhoods in Paris, this boutique hotel offers an elegant stay in the heart of medieval Paris.
• Hôtel de l'Espérance – A charming hotel that captures the essence of staying in the Latin Quarter, perfect for those who want to experience Paris like a local.
• Select Hotel – Situated in the heart of Paris near the Sorbonne, this elegant hotel offers a perfect base for exploring the city’s attractions.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hotel des Mines – A comfortable hotel in one of the best areas to stay in Paris, offering easy access to the Luxembourg Gardens.
• Cluny Square – This charming property sits in the neighborhood of Paris where medieval history meets student life.
• Abbatial Saint Germain – A favorite place to stay for those planning a trip to Paris with its perfect location between Notre Dame and Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Best Hostels

• Hôtel Marignan – An ideal choice for your first time in Paris, offering comfortable accommodation in the heart of the Latin Quarter.
• Hotel Studia – Perfect for those who want to stay in the Latin Quarter without breaking the bank while exploring the city of Paris.
• Notre Dame Stylish Apartment – A cozy apartment-style accommodation that lets you experience the arrondissement like a true Parisian.

6. 8th Arrondissement: Ideal Area for Luxury Shopping

Golden Triangle: The prestigious area between Avenue Montaigne, Avenue George V, and the Champs-Élysées forms Paris’s most luxurious shopping district. The soft glow of sunrise transforms these elegant streets into a serene spectacle, as golden light bathes the Haussmannian facades while boutique staff meticulously arrange window displays for another day of luxury shopping.

Avenue Grandeur: Stretching 1.9 kilometers from Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs-Élysées is a must-see for anyone planning 4 days in Paris or more. This famous avenue is part of the city’s most celebrated district in Paris, offering a mix of gardens, art museums, and bustling shopping streets.

Here’s what you can expect to pay in the 8th:

Cultural Wealth: Beyond the luxury shops, I’ve discovered the district houses incredible museums like the Petit Palais and Grand Palais. The area around Parc Monceau provides a peaceful escape where local families gather for weekend picnics.

Budget Tip: Visit restaurants during weekday lunch hours when most establishments offer set menus (formules) for €35-45, nearly half the dinner prices.

Essential experiences in the 8th:

• Morning walk through Parc Monceau before the crowds arrive
• Evening stroll along illuminated Champs-Élysées
• Sunday morning market at Place de la Madeleine
• Sunset views from Arc de Triomphe

Local Rhythms: The neighborhood comes alive during fashion weeks and major events, but I’ve found the true charm lies in its quiet morning hours. The area around Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré offers a more intimate shopping experience than the busy Champs-Élysées.

Transport Hub: The district is well-served by multiple metro lines, with key stations including George V, Franklin Roosevelt, and Miromesnil. I recommend using the Saint-Philippe-du-Roule station to avoid the tourist crowds at the Champs-Élysées stops.

Where to Stay in 8th Arrondissement

Best Hotels in 8th Arrondissement

• L'Hôtel du Collectionneur – One of the best places to experience Paris luxury, this art deco palace offers stunning views of the city and puts you in the heart of the prestigious 8th arrondissement.
• Villa Marquis – A boutique hotel that captures the essence of Parisian elegance, located near the Champs-Élysées and perfect for your first visit to Paris.
• Le Damantin Hotel & Spa – This maison in Paris offers a luxurious stay with spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower and puts you near major tourist attractions.

Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels

• Hôtel Alexandrine Opera – A great place to stay near the Opera district, offering comfortable rooms and excellent value in central Paris.
• Hotel Elysées Ceramic – Located in one of the best areas for shopping streets in Paris, this hotel provides easy access to get around Paris.
• Hôtel Oceanic – Perfect for those planning to visit Paris on a budget while staying in the heart of the city.

Best Hostels

• Hôtel Parc Monceau – An ideal choice for a solo trip to Paris, offering comfortable accommodation near the beautiful Parc Monceau.
• Hotel Bellevue – One of my favorite cities deserves a great place to stay, and this hotel delivers with its central location and friendly atmosphere.
• La Sanguine – Even if you don’t stay long, this charming hotel provides a genuine Paris experience in the center of Paris.

❓ FAQ

What is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris for first-time visitors?

Le Marais (3rd & 4th arrondissement) is the best choice for your first time in Paris. This central district offers excellent walkability to major attractions, the best transit connections, and countless restaurants and shops. For those who want to stay near the Eiffel Tower, the 7th arrondissement provides stunning views and a more residential atmosphere.

Which Paris neighborhoods are best for staying like a local?

The 2nd arrondissement is perfect for experiencing Paris like a local. The area around Sentier offers authentic Parisian life with local markets, cafés, and boutiques. The Hoxton Paris in this district provides a perfect base for exploring the city while feeling like a resident.

Where should I stay in Paris on a budget?

The 9th arrondissement offers excellent value while maintaining good connections to major attractions. The Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement) also provides more affordable accommodations while staying central. Both areas feature numerous boutique hotels and budget-friendly options without compromising on location.

Which are the best neighborhoods for luxury stays in Paris?

The 8th arrondissement, particularly around Champs-Élysées, is ideal for luxury travelers. The Golden Triangle between Avenue Montaigne, Avenue George V, and the Champs-Élysées offers Paris’s most prestigious hotels. The 1st arrondissement near the Louvre also provides high-end accommodations with excellent views.

What’s the best area to stay for Eiffel Tower views?

The 7th arrondissement offers the best hotels with Eiffel Tower views. Properties like Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel and Hôtel La Comtesse provide direct views of the Iron Lady. The 16th arrondissement also offers excellent vantage points while being slightly removed from tourist crowds.