originally published April 2018; updated December 2023
Planning a trip to Paris? With 20 neighborhoods (arrondissements) to chose from, looking for accommodation can be confusing. That’s why we’ve sharing’ve put together this handy list for the best digs throughout the city.
When you’re picking where to sleep, you’ll want to consider a number of factors, such as activities you may already have planned (how about a tour?!), noise, access to coffee shops for the early birds and late night restaurants for the night owls.
So we’re also including a few food & drink options along with our favorite hotels & apartment rentals. We’ve listed our favorites for delicious meals in each district where you don’t have to dress up to chow down.
So let’s get into it! This is where to stay in Paris; the Best Arrondissements.
The 3rd & 4th Arrondissements (Le Marais)
In some ways, the 3rd and parts of the 4th arrondissement feel like what Paris should feel like: small crooked streets filled with interesting boutiques and tucked away restaurants. Known as Le Marais, which literally translates to “the swamp”, this area of the city is one of the most historic. You can easily spend hours meandering these streets filled with idea people watching, an abundance of cafés, chic coffee shops, and budget-friendly eats. Don’t miss Place des Vosges – the park is exceptionally beautiful in the fall. Closer to Hôtel de Ville and the Seine in the 4th, you’ll find yourself in the old Jewish quarter: grab a kebab! Farther north in the 3rd, you’ll find a younger crowd adjacent to Canal Saint-Martin
- Hotel recommendations: Les Tournelles and Pavillion de la Reine
- Airbnb recommendations: Very nice apartment close to the Marais, Appartement de charme, Modern loft, heart of the Marais, SUNNY TERRACE Apartment in Marais, and Stylish Architect Designed 1-bed Apt in Marais
- Local grub in the Marais: Martin, Chez Janou, and Le Barav
The 6th Arrondissement (Saint Germain-des-Prés)
Situated just south of the Seine, in the center of the city, the 6th arrondissement holds something for everyone. Shoppers? Here you’ll find boutiques galore. Foodies? A great meal will never be more than a quick walk away. Families with kids? Good thing the Jardin du Luxembourg is big, beautifully manicured, and boasts a great playground. While you’re there – for our museum enthusiasts – make sure to stop by the Musée de Luxembourg, a great small museum that has interesting temporary exhibits.
- Hotel recommendations: Hôtel le Saint Grégoire, Hotel Louis 2, and Hotel Recamier
- Airbnb recommendations: Cosy Studio – St Germain des Prés and Rare jewel in St-Germain-des-Prés
- Local grub in Saint Germain-des-Prés : Freddy’s, Bar Etna, and Avant Comptoir (standing only!)
The 5th Arrondissement (The Latin Quarter)
The 5th arrondissement holds the a lot of history, and a lot of fun. Home to the Latin Quarter, this student district is where university students in Paris work and play: you’ll find school, libraries, and great bars. On a more serious note, this area of the city is one of the most historic. As you wander the crooked streets, you’ll find stone wall remnants built by some of the first kings of France.
- Hotel recommendations: Hotel des Grandes Ecoles and Hotel le Lapin Blanc
- Airbnb recommendations: Modern renovated appt in Latin Area
- Local grub in the Latin Quarter: Les Papilles, Bouillon Racine, and Le Pré Verre
The 2nd & 9th Arrondissements
Between the Louvre and Sacre-Coeur is a district the locals call SoPi: South of Pigalle. Set in the heart of the city, here you’ll find a little bit of everything: shopping, food, museums, and a generally lively atmosphere.
- Hotel recommendations: Hotel Bachaumont (2nd), The Hoxton (2nd), Hotel Panache (9th), Hotel Adele & Jules (9th)
- Airbnb recommendations: The Little “Montorgueil”, Central & specious apt. for modern city life, Design appartement in Sentier-Montorgeuil, and Mini-Loft Design Courtyard close Opéra & AC !
- Local grub in the 2nd and 9th district: Juveniles, Terre et Sel, and A-Noste
The 17th Arrondissement (The Batignolles)
Perhaps an overlooked area of the city, the 17th arrondissement has a lot to offer! An off-the-beaten path neighborhood, many Paris families call this district home. You’ll find great markets and small parks, not to mention the beautiful Parc Monceau. Moving east is Place de Clichy and the Batignolles neighborhood. With a younger vibe, this area has a ton of quirky boutiques, and great bars and restaurants.
- Hotel recommendations: Hotel du Théâtre, Hotel Berne Opéra, and Hotel Astoria
- Our Airbnb recommendations: Charming & cosy apt near Montmartre, 15 min. Champs-Élysées – 4 pers., and Beautiful apartment with an exceptional location
- Local grub in the Batignolles: L’ébéniste du vin, Le Bloc, Le Bouchon et l’Assiette
Related Links
- Find out the best new hotels in Paris thanks to Condé Nast.
- My Domaine shares the best places to stay in Paris.
- Everyday Parisian shares her favorite budget friendly hotels in Paris.
- Santorini Dave shares the best hotels in Paris.
