Are you looking for the top areas to stay in Paris? With its timeless charm and distinct neighborhoods, Paris offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you are an art or food lover, a first-timer in Paris, or a couple looking to explore the romantic side of Paris, where you stay can set the tone for your entire experience. The city is split into 20 arrondissements, each with its distinguishing personality.
Some are filled with iconic landmarks, while others provide a more calm and local feel. Although getting around on the metro is convenient, selecting the right neighborhood allows you to spend more time enjoying Paris' magic than sitting in Paris traffic. If you have always fantasized about waking up next to an obvious Eiffel Tower or relaxing with a glass of wine in a secluded cafe, your Paris dreams will be a reality. Let's discover the top Paris neighborhoods together.
1. Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)
This is among the top areas where long-term residents can stay in Paris. Most people think of Montmartre as the true Paris, with its streets lined with vintage cafes, leather shops, ivy-clad apartment complexes, and the stunning white domes of the Sacré-Coeur.
So, why not live your fantasy? The steep hills, lovely multicolored homes, and little vintage stores in this northern neighborhood have all contributed to its timeless village charm. Accommodations here will put you near the final resting places of Degas and Zola ( Cimetière Montmartre) and the rose gardens of Musée de Montmartre. Many excellent dining options, such as Sushi Shunei, A.Léa, and Chez Eugène, are conveniently located near the vibrant nightlife of the unstoppable Pigalle. Studio apartments in Montmartre typically go for €1500 monthly.
2. Saint Germain des Pres (6th Arrondissement)
Are you thinking about which Paris area would be ideal for your family's stay? While the 6th Arrondissement's ultra-chic Saint Germain des Pres neighborhood is crowded with upscale boutiques selling designer clothes, drool-worthy antique stores and showrooms of home décor, and iconic sidewalk cafes and restaurants like Cafe de Flore, Le Precope, and Les Deux Magots, it's also a great weekend getaway.
Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Garden), the iconic neighborhood's largest park, is perhaps most famous to tourists for its serene Medici Fountain, flowering trees and plants, the numerous statues of queens and female saints erected by its creator, Marie de Medici, in the 17th century.
You can walk (10–15 minutes or less) to other major attractions in the Saint Germain des Pres neighborhood, including the Louvre, Tuileries Garden, and Les Halles in the 1st Arrondissement. Furthermore, the number of metro stations makes it quick and easy to reach other Parisian sights. Studio apartments in Saint German des Pres typically go for €1100 monthly.
3. Latin Quarter
Located in Paris's 5th Arrondissement, the Latin Quarter is a vibrant and historic neighborhood. This neighborhood, home to the historic Sorbonne University, has youthful vibes and tourist attractions. It's among the top areas to stay in Paris. Based on the Left Bank of the Seine, this area is one of the oldest in Paris and a favorite among residents and visitors.
The Latin Quarter's twisting streets, which date back to the Roman era, have retained their historic charm. For those looking for actual Parisian culture, this authenticity makes it ideal. Remember to check out the local markets for fresh cheeses, pastries, and produce—perfect for a picnic at the Jardin du Luxembourg.
There are boutique properties and ice cream shops for your enjoyment. You'll also enjoy panoramic views in the quiet streets at night. Studio apartments in the Latin Quarter typically go for €1500 monthly.
4. Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissement)
Le Marais is a fantastic option if your purpose for traveling is to enjoy a more local or cultural experience. This central location is popular among first-time visitors. Le Marais, situated in the 3rd & 4th Arrondissements, is by far the city's most modern and hippest area and one of the most popular places to stay in Paris.
It is also a popular hangout among Paris' younger generation. In addition to trendy and fine chocolate shops, Le Marais, on the right side of the Seine across Notre Dame Cathedral, is home to the Picasso Museum and a thriving nightlife. Despite its historic appearance, Le Marais is a modern neighborhood, especially the Centre Pompidou.
Several blocks long, this structure displays the newest in contemporary art. Le Marais is now Paris's most LBGTQ+ neighborhood, with a thriving nightlife in addition to high-scale stores, dedicated boutiques, and gourmet chocolatiers. Studio apartments in Le Marais typically go for €1300 monthly.
5. 7th Arrondissement
Paris's most famous landmark, the Eiffel Tower, is situated in the 7th Arrondissement on the South Bank, also known as Rive Gauche. This prime location is a residential neighborhood where you'll find train stations, shopping streets, and 4-star hotels. Other nearby attractions include Napoleon's tomb at Les Invalides and the Rodin Museum. The 7th and 8th arrondissement offers a fantastic location and superb apartments with views of the city, featuring narrow streets lined with neighborhood bistros and luxury hotels near the Paris Opera House.
This place is common among foreigners for future visits and return visitors. With almost everything within walking distance, this is one of the best areas to stay in Paris if you wish to explore the city on foot. We advise you to look for accommodation near Rue Cler. Rue Cler is a classic Parisian street in the town, with cafes and gourmet food stores that look more like they belong in a charming French countryside than the country's major city. Studio apartments in 7th Arrondissement typically go for €1850 monthly.
6. Buttes-Chaumont
If you want to see the Eiffel Tower from your window and have a bakery on every corner, look elsewhere. There aren't any beret vendors, Ladurée macarons, or cellophane-wrapped Paris-in-a-box clichés here. Instead, this delightful neighborhood, which has the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont as its head, is a sanctuary for people yearning for greenery, space, and peace.
It's also among the top areas to stay in Paris. At its base are apartment buildings from the early 20th century, small bars, and many neighborhood bistros. The atmosphere is less touristy and more local in the evening. There are no wild shot bars or warehouse clubs like Berlin; instead, there are active cocktails at Rosa Bonheur or Pavillon Puebla, soothing music, and the gentle murmur of craft beer conversation. Studio apartments in Buttes Chaumont typically go for €1500 monthly.
7. Opera/Grand Magasins
If your ideal trip to Paris includes a lot of shopping, opt for accommodation in the bustling Opera/Grans Magasins neighborhood, where you can easily access every famous luxury designer and brand. Your classy 5-star hotel will also be accommodating if you need to store your stuffed shopping bags in your room before heading out for more shopping.
This area of the 9th is dominated by the renowned and incredible Belle Époque Paris grands magasins (large department stores), Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps. They house specialized boutiques for almost every well-known luxury designer, including Gucci, Sandro, Maje, Armani, Valentino, Hermès, Balenciaga, Tiffany, and Louis Vuitton, among many more reasonably priced labels.
Tucked amid the bustling boulevards are numerous little, peaceful side streets lined with modest (but superb) neighborhood cafes, wonderful bistros, and bakeries. You get the perfect blend of Parisian elegance and convenient access to world-class shopping. Studio apartments in Opera/Grand Magasins typically go for €1200 monthly.
8. Belleville
Belleville is at the top, literally (it's on a hill) and figuratively (it was one of the 2024 world's coolest neighborhoods). It's among the top areas to stay in Paris. Although you are far from the romantic image of Paris, you may still find one of the city's most unexpected and charming views at the intersection of two major streets.
Chinatown is located here, and it has a lot of karaoke and bouis-bouis bars in addition to numerous excellent restaurants and piano bars. In addition, Belleville has great and affordable lodging options. Studio apartments in Belleville typically go for €1200 monthly.
9. Canal Saint-Martin (10th and 11th Arrondissement)
Canal Saint-Martin, located in Paris's 10th and 11th arrondissements, uniquely blends calm riverside beauty and lively city life. This beautiful neighborhood is known for its trendy cafes, luxury emporiums, famous attractions, wine shops, and eccentric stores, and it is ideal for those looking for an authentic Parisian experience.
The creative Belleville neighborhood is also located there; it is well-known for its street art, varied culture, and excellent dining options, particularly Asian food. Moreover, the oldest covered market in Paris, the Marché des Enfants Rouges, is famous for its diverse cuisine and fresh products. You can get accommodations near landmarks like the famous de la République, a significant public square that frequently hosts events and get-togethers with a notable statue. Studio apartments in Canal Saint Martin typically go for €1100 monthly.
10. Oberkampf
If you're a youthful visitor wishing to be in the thick of Paris' nightlife scene, book an accommodation near Rue Oberkampf in the 11th Arrondissement. This street and its surroundings are crowded with cocktail bars and nightclubs recognized for their friendly customers and affordable prices. The outer districts offer quiet side streets and budget hotels, perfect for a romantic getaway with panoramic views of the city and easy access to jazz clubs.
This convenient location has tourist hotels, fabulous food, bedroom apartments, fantastic cafes, and piano bars. You won't have to pay for a pricey taxi or Uber after a whole night out because the hotels and accommodations are conveniently located within walking distance of most happenings. Studio apartments in Oberkampf typically go for €1100 monthly.
11. Royal Paris
Many of Paris's most well-known tourist attractions are within easy reach of the vibrant 1st arrondissement neighborhood, which is near the Louvre Museum and Tuileries Garden. This area is sometimes referred to as “Royal Paris” because the French kings and queens used to call it “home.” It's also one of the top areas to stay in Paris. If you're not confident in your ability to speak French, you'll also be pleased to learn that English and other foreign languages are widely spoken in this neighborhood.
This is the location of the Louvre's Mona Lisa, Sainte Chapelle's magnificent stained glass, the nearly unnoticed Palais Royal Garden, designer shops on Rue Saint Honoré, glittering jewelers on Place Vendôme, and Galerie Vero Dodat, one of the city's exquisite arcades from the 19th century. In addition to beautiful spots for lounging, the Tuileries Garden (Jardin du Tuileries) hosts a popular carnival in the summer and the city's busiest Christmas Market in November and December. You'll find great restaurants on almost every street and avenue in this neighborhood, including casual bakeries/cafes, romantic bistros, wine bars, brasseries with all-day service, Michelin-starred restaurants, and the best Asian cuisine in the city on Rue Sainte Anne. Studio apartments in Royal Paris typically cost $1500 monthly.
12. Les Halles
The Les Halles neighborhood, located in the 1st arrondissement and a portion of the 2nd, might be the ideal place for you to stay if your perfect neighborhood in Paris involves exploring well-known market streets, enjoying delicious food, and shopping for the best French cookware. A massive shopping center/metro and train station has replaced the gigantic Les Halles marketplace, where Parisians have been getting their food since the 15th century.
Still, many of the local cookware stores, famous eateries, and a pedestrian-only market street brimming with cheese shops, patisseries, fresh produce, and enticing cafes have remained. If you stay close by, you can go to Stohrer's for your morning pain au chocolat, have lunch at L'Escargot, and eat charcuterie at Au Pied de Cochon.
You can also choose to eat gourmet at Frenchie, steak-frites at Poulette, or the expensive tasting menu at the three-Michelin-starred Kei Restaurant. Stay in a hotel with air conditioning in this prime location, close to major tourist attractions and popular neighborhoods with fantastic views of the French capital. Studio apartments in Les Halles typically cost $1,400 monthly.
13. Ile Saint Louis
This island is home to a collection of tasteful, although somewhat austere, 17th and 18th-century structures that were constructed for affluent, private owners. Several have been turned into hotels, while the lower floors along a prominent street are occupied by a variety of brasseries, cafes, bistros, boutiques, produce kiosks, wine shops, bakeries, and a fromagerie serving mouthwatering cheeses.
The eastern end is anchored by Église Saint-Louis-en-l'Île, a pretty splendid church, and a small but quaint park. When searching for accommodations in Paris, consider staying in one of the double-digit districts, where you'll find competitive hotel rates at favorite hotels that cater to tourists, offering easy access to popular attractions and a range of tourist hotels. Aside from summertime, when tourists from Île de la Cité pour over and stop for ice cream on their way to the neighboring city of Marais, Île Saint Louis is otherwise a peaceful residential neighborhood.
When choosing a place to stay, most tourists in Paris ignore Île Saint Louis, but its central location is unbeatable, and with six bridges connecting it to the Left and Right Banks and the Île de la Cité, you can quickly and easily get to wherever else you would want to go. Île Saint Louis is an excellent option if you wish to spend some time, even if only briefly, experiencing life in a little-known Parisian district in the city's historic center. Studio apartments in ile saint Louis typically cost $1,300 monthly.
14. Strasbourg Saint-Denis
If you wish to play like an insider, switch to SSD. It's one of the top areas to stay in Paris. You've been warned: if you choose this district, it's for the Turkish restaurants, pubs, and cafes rather than the monuments and museums (which are nearly non-existent). However, this is where youth is formed, and you will have the highest possibility of meeting new individuals.
In the heart of this city, you'll find chain hotels and a couple of hotels with dream visit rates, featuring nearby apartments with views of the city and the closest metro station for convenience. You can select between the rockers at Chez Tony and the hip crowd at La Chope des Artistes. After-dinner options include Dogma or Dumbo's burgers, as well as Urfa's unforgettable dürüms. If you're in the mood for some culture, the Porte Saint-Martin theatre delivers one of the best shows in town! Studio apartments here typically cost $1,600 monthly.
15. Quartier Pigalle
Last on this list of top areas to stay in Paris is Pigalle. Eclectic and exciting are the best words to define Pigalle, a neighborhood in Paris's 9th arrondissement! Pigalle offers everything when it comes to nightlife. There are late-night restaurants, ordinary pubs, wine bars, clubs, cocktail bars, and even cabarets (such as the Moulin Rouge). Yes, there are also adult toy shops. While it was originally a sleazy area of the city, it is today a popular destination for exploration and, of course, parties.
The city's former red-light district is thriving, but institutions such as the Gustave Moreau Museum and the Musée de la Vie Romantique nevertheless offer a glimpse into the past. This Paris arrondissement is home to some of the top hotels, including French hotel brands with superb location and luxury luggage storage, perfect for a fantastic location. Studio apartments in Pigalle typically cost $2,000 monthly.
Conclusion
The top areas to stay in Paris each offer a different lens through which to experience the city, whether it's the elegance of the Left Bank, the artistic flair of Montmartre, or the buzz of Le Marais. Wherever you choose, Paris has a way of leaving its mark. Pick a potential neighborhood that matches your rhythm, and let the City of Light reveal its magic, one beautiful moment at a time.
