10 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris


 

Paris is divided by the Seine into the Left and the Right banks, and is also separated into 20 different districts, or arrondissements in French. These arrondissements swirl out from the city center in a snail-like pattern, winding around the city counterclockwise as they go up in number. These arrondissements each contain many distinct neighborhoods or quartiers. From posh to Bohemian, from classic to avant-garde: here are the 10 best neighborhoods to stay in Paris. 

1. Saint-Germain des Prés

Located in central Paris on the Left Bank of the Seine, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is easily one of the most quintessential Parisian neighbourhoods. Historically, this area was home to the city’s writers, artists, and plenty of expats too. Its centrality and classic Parisian charm makes it one of the 10 best neighbourhoods to stay in Paris.

Stroll along the Boulevard Saint-Germain for some chic boutique shopping, get lost in the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg, or hit up one of of the area’s literary cafés for a pick me up. Want to learn more about the area? Check out our free guided walking tour in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. 

2. South Pigalle

The area to the South of the Pigalle area has witnessed quite the transformation over the past decade. Located in the upper par of the 9th arrondissement on the border with Montmartre, South Pigalle is centrally located and easy to access by public transport.

Formerly known for seedy bars and being the heart of the city’s Red Light District, South Pigalle (or SoPi) is recognized today for chic eateries, cool bars, upscale nightclubs, and trendy boutiques. This is certainly an up and coming area, but the area’s liveliness makes it one of the 10 best neighborhoods to stay in Paris. 

3. Palais-Royal

4. Porte Saint-Martin

5. La Sorbonne

Straddling the border between the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés, la Sorbonne is easily one of the most central and most charming quartiers in the city. And no question, one of my picks for the 10 best neighborhoods to stay in Paris.

This area is named after La Sorbonne university, which was founded back in 1257 and is one of the oldest universities in the world. Given its proximity to plenty of major universities, this area is popular with students and families alike. So whether you feel like staying out all night or enjoying a relaxed Parisian experience, la Sorbonne is a great area because there are both options. Narrow streets wind their way past gardens, historic cafés, and monuments like the Pantheon. It’s almost impossible not to get lost in the charm of this Parisian neighborhood. 

6. Oberkampf

If you’re looking to stay in a hip and local Parisian neighborhood, Oberkampf might just be the place for you. Situated in the Eastern portion of Paris, Oberkampf is the lively heart and soul of the 11th arronndissement. Another up and coming zone, Oberkampf has been transformed over the years to become one of the most sought-after areas to stay in Paris. Endless dining, shopping, and nightlife options exist here, but this area feels like a local’s version of Paris. 

7. Latin Quarter

Ah the Latin Quarter, one of Paris’ most famous areas – and for good reason. This neighborhood on the Left Bank is one of the oldest and most historic in the city. It’s in the Latin Quarter that you’ll find the charming narrow cobbled streets, ancient buildings, and monuments like the Pantheon. This amazing neighborhood also borders the Seine, so don’t miss out on a stroll along the riverbanks. Fell like diving deeper into the Latin Quarter? Check out our guided waling tour and get an insider’s perspective. 

8. La Muette

Situated in the western portion of Paris in the posh 16th arrondissement, La Muette is easily one of the 10 best neighborhoods to stay in Paris. Here you’ll find a very ‘local’ atmosphere – it feels like a small village within Paris. Plus, this is a great area to stay if you’re planning to do some shopping, and the neighborhood is full of cute restaurants and bars as well. Plus you’re just a quick hop from both the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. 

9. Archives

Located in the heart of le Marais, it’s hard to find a more central location or lively quartier than Archives. Covering the zone between the Rue des Archives and the Boulevard Beaumarchais, Archives is the artistic soul of Paris. Famous for being one of the city’s trendiest areas, Archives and le Marais in general are known for being home to a vibrant bar scene and home to a large portion of the city’s LGBTQ community.

This is one of the 10 best neighborhoods to stay in Paris if you’re into nightlife or museums, as this area has an abundance of both. Plus, it’s super centrally located, so exploring Paris is easy. 

10. Sentier 

Situated in the center of Paris in the 2nd arrondissement, Sentier is easily one of the 10 best neigborhoods to stay in Paris. Historically, the Sentier area was home to textile manufacturers and wholesalers. And while you can still find some of this, the area is better known today for its trendy cafés, boutique shopping, and the huge concerts and movie premieres taking place at the historic Grand Rex theater. Plus, this area is one of the best places in the city to find hip boutique hotels. 

 

Well, now you know a bit more about the 10 best neighborhoods to stay in Paris. So I hope this article has been helpful for you, and that you enjoyed learning a bit more about some of these places. 

 

See you soon in Paris!

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