If you’re looking for where to stay in Paris, then you’ve come to the right place!
With its iconic landmarks, diverse cultural scene and culinary delights scattered throughout the city, choosing accommodation in Paris is more than just a practical decision.
This guide will help you choose the perfect Paris neighborhood to suit your personal preferences and travel ideas.
- I have been to Paris many times and have stayed in different areas.
Immerse yourself in the diversity of Parisian neighborhoods to find your ideal stay in this fascinating city.
The best areas for a stay in Paris
Paris is one of the largest cities in Europe and the neighborhoods are very diverse. Here is my brief overview of the best areas in Paris:
- 👉 Marais – best area for the first stay
- 👉 Montmartre – the best area for a stay to experience a local atmosphere
- 👉 Quartier Latin – best area for a stay in a lively neighborhood
- 👉 Opéra – Best area for a stay in Paris with children
- 👉 Champs Élysées – best area to stay for shopping
Below, I’ll introduce you to Paris and walk through each recommended area to stay in Paris so you can learn about the different parts of the city before your trip to the French capital.
Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, but also one of the most visited. From impressive architecture to world-famous artists – Paris has it all.
Paris has a rich cultural offering, and it is no coincidence that the city itself has inspired music, literature, film and art.
Paris is divided into 20 different districts. These districts are called arrondissements.
So when choosing a residential area in Paris, you need to pay attention to which arrondissement you want to live in.
What are the best accommodations in Paris, you may ask?
Here are the five best areas in Paris to stay in as a tourist.
1. Marais – best area for the first stay
In Le Marais, where narrow streets and medieval buildings are still preserved, you can feel the past.
Located in the 4th arrondissement in the center of Paris, the Marais is the favorite neighborhood of many tourists in Paris. So if you’re looking for the best accommodation in Paris on your first visit to France, the Marais is a safe bet.
See the best hotels in Marais here. 👈
In the Marais, you can discover many different museums, and Notre Dame de Paris is also located here. Other attractions include the Hotel de Ville and the Place de Bastille.
The gardens on Place des Vosges are also an ideal place to relax.
The Marais is also close to the Seine, so you can easily cross over to the south bank and experience the lively Latin Quarter – an area I mention later in this guide to Paris accommodation, as it is also one of the best areas of the city.
Places to stay in Marais
Best Luxury Hotel: Hotel du Petit Moulin 👈
The Hotel du Petit Moulin is a luxury hotel in the Marais.
Once a bakery from the 17th century, this modern hotel was designed by Christian Lacroix.
The hotel offers 17 uniquely designed rooms with essential amenities such as air conditioning, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. While there is no on-site restaurant, a continental breakfast is served daily and there are numerous dining options nearby.
Essential services include a 24-hour reception, a daily cleaning service and a concierge service to help you book tickets or find local recommendations.
The hotel is close to attractions such as the Picasso Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral.
See more photos and book here. 👈
If you want to combine historical charm with modern amenities, the Hotel du Petit Moulin could be ideal for your stay in Paris.
Best mid-range hotel: 👉 Les Tournelles
Les Tournelles is a charming and perhaps slightly less expensive hotel in the Marais.
The historic building in which the hotel is housed gives it an authentic Parisian flair, while the modern and stylish furnishings create a pleasant atmosphere.
The rooms are comfortable and tastefully decorated with warm colors and classic furniture and invite you to relax after sightseeing in Paris.
Les Tournelles offers a delicious breakfast, which can be taken in the cozy restaurant.
See more photos and book here.
Best budget hotel: 👉 Hotel Turenne Le Marais
The Hotel Turenne Le Marais is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to experience the vibrant life of Paris without spending a fortune on accommodation.
This affordable hotel is located in the historic Marais district and gives guests a feeling of being at home in the “city of cities”.
The rooms at the Hotel Turenne are comfortable and cozy and have modern facilities so that guests have everything they need.
Some rooms even offer a view of the rooftops of Paris, adding a touch of romance to your stay.
The Hotel Turenne Le Marais offers a perfect balance between price and comfort, making it an attractive choice for any traveler.
See more photos and book here. 👈
The Marais is a very popular area, so we don’t find the cheapest hotels in Paris here.
So if you’re looking for cheap accommodation in Paris, it might make more sense to take a closer look at the following areas on the list – the next one is my personal favorite.
2. Montmartre – the best area for a stay with a local atmosphere
Where should you live in Paris if not in the Marais? Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement is a very charming district and I have to admit that Montmartre is my favorite district in Paris.
It may be that there are a lot of tourists there too, but that’s the case everywhere in Paris – I think Montmartre has a unique, really cozy atmosphere.
And then I imagine that there is more local color here than in the absolute center of Paris.
Find the best hotels in Montmartre here. 👈
The area was once an artists’ village, where both Dalí and Picasso himself lived.
Montmartre is known for its hill, which you can climb by cable car or take the stairs for a more challenging activity.
At the top of the hill is the white Sacre Coeur basilica, which can be seen from much of the city and is well worth a visit – even if you don’t live in Montmartre.
On the artists’ square (Place de Tertre), you can admire the many artists who create creative masterpieces. This is also a good option for you if you want to have a self-portrait painted.
Montmartre is worth considering if you are artistically inclined or want to live in an area of Paris that has something special to offer.
And I mean that in the best possible way – I love Montmartre!
Where to stay in Montmartre
Montmartre is a relatively small area, and you don’t have to stay right at the foot of the Sacre-Coeur to feel the good atmosphere of the 18th arrondissement – you can also choose a hotel in the Pigalle district of the 9th arrondissement.
Here you will find three good hotels in Montmartre in different price categories.
Best luxury hotel: Hôtel Monsieur Aristide 👈
The Hôtel Monsieur Aristide is a real gem in the artistic district of Montmartre.
With its unique, bohemian-inspired décor, the hotel pays homage to the creative community that made the area famous.
The rooms are cozy and full of character, all furnished with care and attention to detail.
The Hôtel Monsieur Aristide is just a short walk from the famous Sacré-Cœur Basilica and the many charming cafés and stores in Montmartre.
An overnight stay here is a wonderful way to experience the authentic Parisian atmosphere.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Best mid-range hotel: 👉 Best Western Plus Hotel Litteraire Marcel Ayme
The Best Western Plus Hotel Litteraire Marcel Ayme is a hidden gem in the Montmartre area.
The hotel is named after the famous French writer Marcel Ayme and the decor is inspired by his works, creating a unique, literary atmosphere.
The rooms are tastefully furnished and offer modern comfort combined with historical charm.
Best budget hotel: 👉 Hôtel Audran
The Hôtel Audran is the perfect choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience the charm of historic Montmartre.
Despite the affordable price, this hotel lacks neither comfort nor atmosphere.
See more photos and book here.
The rooms are bright, clean and cozy and have modern facilities that guarantee a pleasant stay.
A stay at the Hôtel Audran is an ideal and affordable way to experience authentic Paris.
3. Quartier Latin – the best area for a stay in a lively neighborhood
If you want to experience one of the best areas of Paris and live in a neighborhood with a lot of soul and color, then the Latin Quarter in Paris is a good choice.
Here you are in the 5th arrondissement directly south of the Seine.
The district is known for its cozy streets, lovely cafés and restaurants, among other things.
Here you will find the best hotels in the Latin Quarter. 👈
As you know, France is world-famous for its wonderful and traditional cuisine. So if you want to try some delicious food, the Quartier Latin also offers Michelin restaurants.
If you have a sweet tooth, you should definitely stop by Ladurée, where they have the most beautiful macaroons.
The Latin Quarter is also home to the Sorbonne University, which dates back to the Middle Ages. Great philosophers of world renown have studied at this university, so it is not just any university.
In the Latin Quarter in Paris, you can experience the Panthéon, the Mouffetard market and much more.
Overnight accommodation in the Quartier Latin
The Latin Quarter is undoubtedly one of the best areas to visit on your trip to Paris. I would like to introduce you to three good hotels in the Latin Quarter:
Best luxury hotel: Hôtel La Lanterne 👈
The Hôtel La Lanterne is a real luxury hotel in the historic Latin Quarter in Paris.
With its elegant decor and first-class facilities, this is the place where French finesse meets modern luxury.
The rooms are tastefully furnished with great attention to detail, and each has its own charm.
An indoor pool and a wellness area ensure relaxation on your trip to Paris.
The hotel is close to some of the most famous sights in Paris, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Pantheon and the Jardin du Luxembourg.
The area’s famous bookshops, cafés and restaurants are also just around the corner.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Best mid-range hotel: Hotel Oratio 👈
The Hotel Oratio is an excellent hotel in the lively Latin Quarter.
With its classic charm and modern comfort, this hotel is an ideal place for you if you’re seeking good value for money without compromising quality.
The rooms are bright and comfortable, with a touch of Parisian elegance.
This is the ideal accommodation for those who want to experience the dynamic culture and history of Paris but don’t want to spend their entire vacation budget on the hotel.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Best Cheap Hotel: Hotel Des Nations Saint Germain 👈
The Hotel Des Nations Saint Germain is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for an authentic experience in the heart of Paris’ Latin Quarter.
Despite its affordable price, this hotel offers plenty of charm and comfort.
The rooms are welcoming and practical, with all the necessary facilities to ensure a pleasant stay
There is no unnecessary luxury here, but an excellent Parisian atmosphere that makes you feel part of the dynamic life of the city.
See more photos and book here. 👈
4. Opéra – best accommodation in Paris with children
The 9th arrondissement of the French capital is known for its stores, department stores and hotels, among other things. But one of the most important sights is the Paris Opera.
The area is perfect for those traveling to Paris with children and want to stay close to the best sights of Paris.
As mentioned above, it’s difficult to determine the best area in Paris and therefore the best for families with children, but if you book a hotel in the Opéra, you won’t go wrong in the city.
One advantage of staying here is that the area is central and well connected. Whether you land at Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport, you can get to your hotel quickly – and back to the airport again.
The Louvre, the Champs Élysées and much more are also within walking distance from here.
Whether you like going to the opera or not, it is definitely an unforgettable experience to pass by the opera, which is located in the Palais Garnier, which was built around 1800.
The beautiful opera house is worth a visit to admire the interior and the building itself and to experience a concert.
In addition to the opera, you can also attend a ballet performance. The opera library and museum offer many opportunities to explore the history of the opera.
Where to stay in Opéra
The area around the Opéra is relatively small, so it doesn’t matter if your hotel is not right next to the Opera or the metro station. Here are three good hotels in the Opéra.
Best luxury hotel: Chouchou Hôtel 👈
The Chouchou Hôtel is a first-class hotel in the sought-after Opéra district of Paris.
This hotel is more than just a place to rest – it is a true tribute to the Parisian lifestyle and combines luxury, elegance and cultural flair.
The rooms are exceptionally decorated and range from chic minimalism to vintage glamor.
On site you will find an exceptional restaurant, a trendy bar and a seasonal roof terrace where you can enjoy the sunset over the rooftops of the city with a cocktail.
Located close to the Opera Garnier, the grand boulevards and exclusive stores, the Chouchou Hôtel is the perfect base from which to explore Paris.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Best mid-range hotel: Hôtel Excelsior Opéra 👈
The Hôtel Excelsior Opéra is an affordable hotel in Opéra.
This mid-range hotel offers a blend of classic charm and modern comfort, making it a welcoming place to stay in the heart of Paris.
The rooms are nicely decorated, with warm colors and comfortable furniture. Some rooms even offer a magnificent view over the rooftops of Paris.
The hotel is just a stone’s throw from the Opera Garnier and the numerous shopping opportunities on the main boulevards. The Louvre and other important sights are also just a short metro ride away.
A good hotel for the price here in the Opéra.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Best budget hotel: Maison Axel Opera 👈
The Hôtel Excelsior Opéra is a good choice for those who want to save a little money on accommodation, but still want to stay in a beautiful setting and close to everything in Paris.
The blend of classic charm and modern comfort makes this hotel a welcoming place to stay in the heart of Paris.
See more photos and book here. 👈
The rooms are beautifully decorated with warm colors and comfortable furniture. Some rooms even offer a breathtaking view over the rooftops of Paris.
5. Champs Élysées – best area for shopping
Although many associate Paris with cozy cafés, historical monuments, buildings and art, the metropolis is also known for its excellent stores with chic clothing.
Paris is not just any city when it comes to shopping.
And here we can’t miss the Champs Élysées, which is famous the world over and is perhaps one of the most beautiful streets in the world.
We are here in the 8th arrondissement and therefore still very central in Paris, but in the western part of the city and very close to the Eiffel Tower.
![Paris France, Walking around Champs Élysées, Spring 2022 [4K UHD]](https://www.reisenweg.com/wp-content/cache/flying-press/li564Thx8Jo-hqdefault.jpg)
Together with London, New York and Milan, the city is also known as the “world capital of fashion”.
If you love the big fashion houses and brands such as Dior, Chanel, YSL and Louis Vuitton, then the Champs Élysées is a good choice for your stay in Paris. You can shop for haute couture in style on the famous street.
However, the Champs Élysées is not only home to large fashion houses, but also many other stores with well-known brands and in many price ranges.
The avenue itself, which stretches for almost two kilometers, is an experience in itself, and so is the area around it. If you like shopping, a stay in this area is definitely worthwhile when visiting Paris.
Don’t forget to visit the Arc de Triomphe near the Champs Élysées.
Accommodation near Champs Élysées
Unlike the other areas in this guide to Paris, the Champs Élysées is not an area, it’s just a street, but below are some of the best hotels near the famous avenue.
Best luxury hotel: La Demeure Montaigne 👈
La Demeure Montaigne is a small, hidden luxury hotel in the heart of Paris.
The design of the hotel is a perfect blend of elegance and comfort, and each room is a little oasis that offers an ideal escape from the busy streets of Paris.
The amenities are incredible, and many rooms have a private terrace where you can enjoy your morning coffee overlooking the rooftops of the city.
If you’re looking for the perfect combination of luxury and location in Paris, you can’t go wrong with La Demeure Montaigne.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Best mid-range hotel: citizenM Paris Champs-Élysées 👈
The CitizenM Paris Champs-Élysées is a forward-thinking hotel that gives you access to a unique experience right on the famous Champs-Élysées.
The design is modern and innovative and offers guests a comfortable and chic atmosphere.
So if you want to try out a somewhat unconventional hotel in Paris, this is a good choice.
All rooms have high-tech amenities, including a tablet control system that allows you to control everything from the lighting to the temperature.
The CitizenM Paris Champs-Élysées is therefore a good choice for anyone who appreciates comfort, technology and a fantastic location in the heart of Paris.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Best cheap hotel: Hotel Magda Champs Elysées 👈
The Hotel Magda Champs Elysées is the perfect choice to experience the charm of Paris and stay close to the Champs Elysées without breaking the bank.
This reasonably priced hotel is just a few minutes’ walk from the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysées.
The hotel’s rooms are comfortably furnished, with a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Even though the prices are low, the comfort is high.
All rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as flat screen TVs, free WiFi and air conditioning, which is essential in Paris in the summer (I once stayed in an Airbnb in Paris in July – I’ll never do that again)
The hotel also offers a rich breakfast buffet every morning and has a cozy lounge where you can relax after a day in Paris.
See more photos and book here. 👈
Unsafe areas to avoid in Paris (where you should NOT stay overnight)
There are some areas in Paris that you should generally avoid.
In Paris, it is advisable to stay away from certain areas in the evening and at night. It is best to avoid places such as the Gare du Nord and the Gare de l’Est in the 10th arrondissement.
At least in the evening and at night.
In the 1st arrondissement is the Chalet Les Halles, which should also be avoided in the evening, and the same applies to the northern part of the 19th arrondissement.
In the evening and at night, it is also not a good idea to stay near the Porte de Montreuil (19th arrondissement) and the Bois de Bologne (20th arrondissement).
I hope this guide to the best neighborhoods in Paris has helped you and that you are now ready to enjoy your trip to the French capital.
If you have any questions about Paris, the neighborhoods or the hotels mentioned in this guide, please write us a comment.
Websites that I use to book my trips
- 👉 Agoda is my favourite site for booking hotels and unique stays.
- 👉 GetYourGuide is my top pick for booking tours and activities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions:
Where should you stay the first time in Paris?
If you are visiting Paris for the first time, I would personally recommend Le Marais as the ideal place to stay. This historic neighborhood, which spans the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, offers a unique blend of old world charm and modern vibrancy that perfectly embodies the spirit of Paris.
Here’s why Le Marais is my top choice:
Central location: Le Marais is strategically located, making it easy to explore the city. Landmarks such as Notre Dame, the Louvre and the Centre Pompidou are all within walking distance.
Architectural beauty: Le Marais is one of the few districts where the narrow, winding streets of medieval Paris have been preserved. The beautiful old buildings and cobbled streets take you back in time.
Fashion and shopping: Le Marais is known for its fashion boutiques, vintage stores and art galleries and is a paradise for fashion and art lovers alike.
Food & drink: The area is teeming with hip cafés, bakeries and first-class restaurants. You will also find a wide selection of lively bars and pubs.
Cultural diversity: As the historical center of the Jewish community in Paris and the current center of the LGBTQ+ community, Le Marais is a testament to the city’s multicultural heritage and vibrant diversity.
Historical sites: from the oldest planned square in Paris, the Place des Vosges, to the beautiful Musée Picasso, there is plenty of history and culture to discover right on your doorstep.
In short, Le Marais is a neighborhood that ticks all the boxes for a first stay in Paris. Its location, charm and variety of attractions make it a perfect starting point for exploring the rest of the city.
Where should I stay in Paris to reach everything on foot?
Paris is known as the “city of walks” and is the perfect city to explore on foot. While it is difficult to find a place where you can reach every single sight on foot, there are certain areas that are perfect for discovering the different facets of the city.
If you are looking for typical Paris, Saint-Germain-des-Prés in the 6th arrondissement is a good place to start. This district is known for its cafés, once frequented by famous writers and philosophers, as well as its numerous art galleries and antique stores. In addition, Notre Dame and the Louvre are just a short walk away.
Le Marais in the 4th arrondissement is another excellent option that combines history, fashion and culture. Le Marais is known for its narrow, winding streets, beautiful old buildings and trendy stores. It is also home to the Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris, and the Centre Pompidou, the museum of modern art in Paris.
If you want to be closer to the iconic sights, the area around the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Elysées is ideal. Both the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe are within walking distance from here, and there are plenty of shopping opportunities and restaurants along the Champs-Elysées.
If you prefer something a little more unconventional, head to Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement. This area is famous for its artistic heritage, the Sacré-Cœur basilica and, of course, the breathtaking view of Paris from the top of the hill.
Remember that Paris is a city best explored without a fixed plan. Wherever you are, take the time to stroll through the city and let yourself be enchanted by its many beauties.
What is the best area to live in Paris?
It’s hard to pinpoint the best area in Paris, but I recommend staying in the Marais, Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, the Opéra and near the Champs Élysées.
In which district of Paris is the Eiffel Tower located?
The Eiffel Tower is located in the 7th arrondissement, which is not on my list of the best areas in Paris. You will get more for your money if you book a hotel elsewhere.
Where should I stay in Paris if I want to go on a romantic getaway?
For a romantic getaway, Montmartre is unbeatable. The cobbled streets, charming cafés and the impressive Sacré-Cœur basilica make this area the perfect place for lovers.
