Where To Stay In Paris Based On Your Travel Style (From Someone Who Stays In A Lot Of Paris Hotels)

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Looking for where to stay in Paris?

Paris is always a good idea, right? Whether you’re staying for 4 days in Paris, planning to make a lovely day trip to the Loire Valley, or are including Paris in your week-long France itinerary, you cannot go wrong with a jaunt to the city of lights.

I have visited Paris several times, including visits to Paris in winter, spring, summer, and fall. And after having explored the ins and outs of this lovely city, I have to say, there are some incredible districts (or arrondissements as they say in French!).

The best part about each of them is that they all have their own personalities! This makes it kind of difficult to answer the question I get all the time about “Where should I stay in Paris?”

The answer: it all depends on your travel style!

So whether you want to party till dawn, are visiting for the first time, or are even coming here on your honeymoon, I have the perfect Paris where-to-stay guide to help you choose which part of the city is right for you.

What is an Arrondissement?

Neighborhood, district, arrondissement…what does it all mean?! While there are several neighborhoods (quartiers in French) in Paris, there are only 20 arrondissements.

An arrondissement is actually an administrative district. So Paris is broken down into 20 arrondissements and they start in the center of Paris at the 1st Arrondissement and move out clockwise (kind of like an escargot or pain au raisin shape!).

Paris has both a city council and arrondissement councils. This is kind of similar to how in the US many cities have wards for administrative purposes.

Each arrondissement has elected officials, a mayor, etc. that represent that arrondissement but everything is still under the overall Paris laws and the City Mayor.

Note that the first 4 arrondissements are united now administratively as Paris Centre. However, the separate arrondissements still exist and are still called 1st arrondissement, 2nd, and so on. They just are united for admin purposes.

Each arrondissement is actually comprised of 4 quartiers (or neighborhoods).

But for the purposes of this where to stay in Paris guide, I’ll be discussing the best areas of Paris to stay in which can include neighborhoods and overall arrondissements.

Map of Paris Arrondissements

Check here for the interactive map of where to stay in Paris!

1st Arrondissement- Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for First-Time Visitors

There is nothing like visiting Paris for the first time. The stunning architecture, the food, and all of the iconic sights like the Louvre, Notre Dame, etc. are must-sees.

So, if you are trying to see a lot of Paris in a short amount of time, I recommend staying close by the heart of the tourist attractions in the 1st Arrondissement, which is where the Louvre is located.

The best part of staying in this area is that a lot of places are highly walkable such as the Louvre, Seine River, and the Tuileries. Also, you can easily get to Notre Dame, Orsay Museum, and many more places in the surrounding areas on foot.

This is the best location in Paris for hotels, as there are plenty to choose from in the area. However, it can get pretty pricey.

Pros of the 1st Arrondissement:

• Super close to the main touristy sites
• Can walk to tons of places
• Great metro lines to get around

Cons of the 1st Arrondissement:

• Expensive $$$
• Pretty touristy, so less locals and local spots

Here are some favorites to stay at the 1st Arrondissement of Paris:

Mid-Range: Le Relais Saint-Honore

This hotel, located within steps of the Tuileries and a short walk to the Louvre is a perfect spot to base yourself for the first visit to Paris. The colorful rooms are light and airy, and you’ll love the charm of this tucked-away place.

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Mid-Range: Hotel La Tamise- Esprit de France

With resounding 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, gorgeous rooms, and a lovely lounge, this hotel makes guests comfortable and relaxed during their stay. Plus, it is super close to many attractions, making it a great spot to be in Paris.

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Luxury: Grand Hotel du Palais Royal

Steps from the Louvre and Palais Royal, if you are looking for luxury, this is your place. If the fantastic views won’t sway you to hit “book” then the Turkish bath, lovely terraces, and gorgeously chic rooms will.

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7th Arrondissement- Where to Stay in Paris Near the Eiffel Tower And Where to Stay in Paris With a Family

If you are coming to Paris with kids, staying in a quieter area is a great idea. And the 7th Arrondissement, which includes Rue Cler and the Eiffel Tower, is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

First of all, it is the same district in Paris as the Eiffel Tower, so there are great views to be had all around this area! This, of course, makes it a great place to stay in Paris near the Eiffel Tower if that is your preference!

You’re also within strolling distance or a short metro ride to many attractions, making getting around the city with children much easier.

This area also boasts many great restaurants, bakeries, chocolate shops, and the Rue Cler market.

Pros of the 7th Arrondissement:

• More quiet area of Paris, less crowded (outside of around the Eiffel Tower, of course)
• Great restaurants and bakeries
• Many hotels have views of the Eiffel Tower
• Easily walk to Eiffel Tower

Cons of the 7th Arrondissement:

• If you’re staying close to the Eiffel Tower, it is a bit further from other main attractions in Paris
• Can be expensive

If you plan to come to Paris with kids or want to be near the Eiffel Tower, check out these hotels:

Mid-Range: Hotel de la Paix Tour Eiffel

If you plan to travel to Paris with kids, you’ll love the breakfast buffet and close proximity to the Eiffel Tower, bakeries, and a laundromat.

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Mid-Range: Cler Hotel

This adorable boutique hotel combines classic with contemporary with beautifully designed rooms. Plus, there are fantastic views of the city, and you’ll love the breakfast buffet, soundproof rooms, and blackout curtains for a good night’s sleep.

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Luxury: Residence Charles Floquet

If you want beautiful Eiffel Tower views and to be within steps of the Iron Lady, you’ll absolutely love this hotel. Apartments here include a kitchen to cook your own meals, a dishwasher, and a washer/dryer. And the balconies, high ceilings, and fireplaces will wow you as well. Not all apartments have A/C so check before booking!

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18th Arrondissement- Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris for a Honeymoon

I can think of few places more romantic for a honeymoon than Paris. So choosing the most romantic place to stay in Paris is almost a no-brainer.

Sure, you could grab a spot near the Eiffel Tower. But when it comes to true romance, I recommend the dreamy Montmartre, also known as the 18th arrondissement, for your honeymoon.

This hilly neighborhood boasts colorful cafes, a vineyard, and the most beautiful views overlooking the city. Stroll hand in hand with your love as you wander cobblestone streets, tucked away cafes and museums, and enjoy the best that this neighborhood has to offer.

And if you are planning to save extra money and would prefer to book a VRBO, there are great budget-friendly places to stay in this neighborhood too! 

Pros of the 18th Arrondissement:

• Super romantic and charming
• Amazing views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower in many places
• Great bars and restaurants
• Go find the man playing the accordion with his cat- it’s adorable and a Montmartre staple!
• Pretty affordable

Cons of the 18th Arrondissement:

• Can be a bit crowded and touristy in some spots
• Very hilly! You’re definitely going to be climbing hills and steps. If you’re staying near the Abbesses metro, there are a whopping 200 steps to get out!
• This is definitely further from the big attractions in Paris like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, etc. So be prepared to either walk a lot or take the metro.

If you prefer hotels, check out these lovely, honeymoon-worthy spots:

Budget: Hotel Le Chat Noir

Located in a prime spot in Montmartre, this hotel is not only affordable but many rooms even boast Eiffel Tower views and balconies. Also, each floor is dedicated to a famous poet from the cabaret period and the décor is all about the black and red colors of that time.

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Mid-Range: Hotel Des Arts – Montmartre

If you’re looking for a great room in the perfect location to explore the nooks and crannies of Montmartre, this is it. It is close to great French restaurants, small shops, and near the metro so you can get out and explore more of Paris.

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Mid-Range: Terrass” Hotel by MH

Incredibly affordable and with great views, you’ll love this cozy hotel in Montmartre. They also have airport transportation, a rooftop bar, yoga classes, and more! Perfect for a honeymoon in Paris.

Book it here!

Montmartre is not only charming but pretty affordable for your honeymoon!

Canal Saint-Martin- Where to Stay in Paris on a Budget

As much as we all love Paris, it is safe to say that it isn’t the most budget-friendly city. But there are many ways to save money in Paris.

And if you want to save the most money, going local is key. If there is one delightful place to stay in Paris where you can go local and save money it is in the Canal Saint-Martin area (AKA between the 10th, 11th, and a part of the 19th arrondissements).

Canal Saint-Martin is a trendy part of Paris, so expect to see many locals in the area wandering the canal. Plus, there are plenty of great restaurants, cafes, and bars to enjoy as the locals do!

It also isn’t too far from one of my favorite parks in Paris: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont!

Pros of Canal Saint-Martin:

• Budget-friendly (as discussed above)
• Close to Gare de l’Est and Gare de Nord if planning to head in those directions after Paris
• Lots of locals!
• Great bars and restaurants!

Cons of Canal Saint-Martin:

• Not super close to main tourist attractions, so you’ll have to walk further or take the metro
• Not as many hotel options as other areas of Paris

And in this area of Paris, you can grab a hotel for around $150 per night sometimes! Check these out:

Budget: Babel Belleville

Located about a 15-minute walk from the canal in Belleville, this is a super cute boutique hotel. Plus, if you book early, you can get rooms for around $150 per night! The rooms here are adorable as is its cute little restaurant.

Book it here!

Budget: Libertel Canal Saint-Martin

This comfortable hotel is in an incredible location along the canal area and has lovely, clean rooms, air conditioning, and some rooms have balconies with amazing views! It is a great place to stay in Paris!

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Mid-Range: Le Robinet d’Or

With beautifully designed rooms, a fantastic location along the canal, and a lovely bar and lounge, you’ll love resting at this hotel while enjoying the local flair of the Canal Saint-Martin neighborhood.

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Le Marais- Best Location to Stay in Paris for Shopping

While you may automatically think of Avenue des Champs-Elysees as the place to stay for shopping, upon further inspection, unless you want basic stores you can find in almost any big city, I’d give it a skip.

Sure, stop by the Arc de Triomphe, but if you want truly unique places to shop, definitely check out Le Marais.

Between places to go food shopping (hello Marches des Enfants Rouges!), vintage clothes shopping, perfume shopping, and other unique goods, you can’t miss a chance to stay in the Le Marais area of Paris, located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements.

And for a nice department store shopping experience, head to the BHV Marais.

If you want to shop until you drop in between visiting cool museums like the Picasso Museum, Carnavalet Museum, and even the National Archives, then Le Marais is the place to stay.

Another amazing thing to do in the area is to take a food tour to really get to know this unique arrondissement of Paris, which is also known as the historic Jewish Quarter and LGBTQ+ District.

Pros of Le Marais:

• Great markets, bars, and restaurants everywhere
• Lots of great sites including Place des Vosges, Picasso Museum, Musee Carnavalet, etc.
• Perfect for shopping whether you’re searching for perfume or vintage shopping

Cons of Le Marais:

• Can get a pricey at times
• Some places can be crowded so go early like Carette, L’As du Fallafel, etc.
• It isn’t a hidden gem by any means, so there will definitely be some tourists

So where is the best place to stay in Paris in the Le Marais neighborhood? Check these out:

Budget: Le Temple De Jeanne

With plush décor, beautiful rooms, and great views of the Le Marais, you’ll fall in love with this hotel. It is also right in the heart of the neighborhood and across the street from the metro station.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Jeanne D’Arc

With clean and cozy rooms in the heart of the Le Marais neighborhood, it is the perfect place to base yourself for exploring this fun area. Note that this does not have A/C, but they do have strong fans.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel de JoBo

Who said wallpaper was out? This hotel has opulence on fleak with delightfully themed rooms, a wood-polished salon, and more. If you want a unique place to stay in Paris, this is it.

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6th Arrondissement- Trendiest Arrondissement to Stay in Paris

This is hardly just the trendiest arrondissement in Paris at the moment, as it has been trendy for a long time. The 6th arrondissement (AKA Saint-Germain-des-Pres) was where artists, writers, philosophers, and more have gathered over the centuries.

But what I love the most are the quaint cafes, like my absolute favorite place Les Deux Magots. Cafes like Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore, or Brasserie Lipp are must-sees, and if there is one thing you must do, it is have the ancient hot chocolate at Les Deux Magots.

This charming part of Paris is trendy for a reason, but you’ll love wandering the colorful streets, tucked-away alleys, and delightful buildings as you get off the main tourist drag.

Pro-tip: Check out the Saint-Germain-des-Pres Church (right across from Les Deux Magots) during your time there! It is the cutest church with a lovely garden. Plus, it is a great alternative to beat the crowds at other churches in the city.

The only downside to Saint-Germain-des-Pres? It can get pricey staying in this neighborhood. So VBRO is your best bet for budget options.

Pros of Saint-Germain-des-Pres:

• Super close to many attractions so you can walk around
• Great cafes, restaurants, bakeries, etc.
• Several great boutiques and luxury shops

Cons of Saint-Germain-des-Pres:

• Can definitely be expensive for food, hotels, everything
• Definitely can be touristy with crowds particularly around the popular cafes

To stay in this lovely arrondissement in Paris, check out these hotels:

Mid-Range: Hotel Le Clement

With less than a mile walk to the main attractions in Paris but also located in the perfect spot to peruse the best of Saint Germain, this hotel has the comfort of home while remaining affordable for your stay in Paris.

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Mid-Range: Hotel Odeon Saint Germain

This adorable boutique hotel has pretty spacious rooms (a luxury for hotels in Paris!), is close to many cute bars and restaurants, and is in a great spot for exploring both Paris and Saint-Germain-des-Pres.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Da Vinci & Spa

For some luxury and perhaps a stunning balcony, you’ll feel relaxed in this hotel. Plus, they have a gorgeous spa that’ll have you feeling like you’re gazing out at a starry night while you soak your tired feet. You’ll enjoy this small boutique hotel with only 24 rooms and a lot of personal attention to your every need.

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The 9th (Quartier Pigalle) is the Best Place to Stay in Paris for Nightlife

Eclectic and fun are perfect words to describe this area in the 9th arrondissement, known as Pigalle, in Paris!

Pigalle truly has it all when it comes to nightlife. There are late-night places to eat (I’m looking at you, Bouillon Pigalle), regular bars, clubs, cocktail bars, wine bars, and even cabarets. Yes, there are even adult toy shops as well. While once known as a seedy part of the city, it is now a popular place to explore, and of course, party.

The former red-light district part of the city is full of new life, but you can still take a walk in the past in museums like the Gustave Moreau Museum as well as the Musee de la Vie Romantique.

Pros of Pigalle:

• So many great bars, restaurants, and clubs
• Close to the sites of Montmartre
• Pretty affordable

Cons of Pigalle:

• Can be a bit seedy, especially at night. Perhaps not the best place to stay for solo female travelers.
• Further from the main heart of Paris where the typical attractions are

Here are some great hotels to stay at in Pigalle:

Budget: ZE Hotel

Located within easy walking distance of many attractions in the area, this is a great hotel to stay at on a budget. The rooms are trendy and fun, and they even have a tasty breakfast to start your day.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Rochechouart

Want to start the party at the hotel? No problem, this place has a great rooftop bar and a lovely restaurant to get you sorted before a fabulous night on the town. Plus, its Belle Epoque meets the modern era style makes for the perfect decor.

Book it here!

Luxury: Maison Souquet

For a 5-star luxury experience in Pigalle, look no further. With its combination of Napoleon III and Arabian-style decor, you’ll feel the indulgent style everywhere. Plus, it has a delightfully relaxing spa and velvet-chaired reading room that are perfect for when you want to spend an afternoon or evening in rather than partying.

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Opera in the 9th is Where to Stay in Paris For the Holidays

The Opera neighborhood of Paris is actually quite different than its other 9th arrondissement counterpart, Pigalle.

While Pigalle is where to party, Opera is where to take in some culture. In a way, it has a feeling of a mini Paris within Paris. There are some delicious places to eat, and there is plenty of culture to take in between the iconic Palais Garnier opera house (pictured above) to the Musee de Parfum.

Oh, and there is great shopping in this area! Galleries Lafayette and Printemps malls are right in this quartier. Which is why I LOVE this area during the holiday season. Why? Well the lights here are incredible!

You can wander around this quarter and take in the holiday decor, especially around the malls. And you cannot miss an opportunity to go inside of Galleries Lafayette to see the giant tree display.

The malls also have elaborate window displays this time of year as well. And for an epic view, go to the top of Galleries Lafayette to see the city all lit up!

Pros of Opera:

• Easy to walk to the Palais Garnier and perfume museum
• Many hotel options
• Amazing window displays and lights during the holiday season

Cons of Opera:

• Can be crowded/lots of traffic as it is a busy area
• Hotels can be on the pricier side
• Have to walk a bit/take the metro to the main touristy sites (i.e. Louvre, Orsay, etc.)

Here is where to stay in Opera:

Mid-Range: Hotel Saint-Marc

Located only 10 minutes from the Palais Garnier (and steps from the quartier) is this charming hotel that is tucked away. It has a cute little inner courtyard as an oasis in the city, and the rooms here are spacious with honestly, the best bathrooms I’ve had in a hotel in Paris. Plus, this place has a spa complete with a hammam.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Monsieur Helder Hotel Opera

Located in the heart of the neighborhood, this hotel has delightfully modern yet cozy-feeling rooms. Rooms here also overlook either the street or courtyard, and they share their ground floor with a plant-based restaurant!

Book it here!

Luxury: InterContinental Paris Le Grand

This 5-star hotel is here to meet your everyday need. Whether you need a babysitter, trainer, or dry cleaning, they’ve got you covered. Aside from that, this place has a stunning lounge, a spa (reopening in spring 2025), and chic rooms and suites. Some even have views of the Palais Garnier!

Book it here!

The 5th (AKA Latin Quarter)- Best Place to Stay in Paris For First Timers…Who Don’t Want to Stay in the 1st

The Latin Quarter is iconic. Home to the Pantheon, the Grande Mosquee de Paris, the Jardin des Plantes, Arenes de Lutece, the Sorbonne, and honestly, the best place to walk along the Seine, you can’t go wrong with a first time in Paris stay in the Latin Quarter (AKA the 5th).

As a bonus, there is also the charming Rue Mouffetard, which is a market street but also a great place for restaurants and people-watching in general.

The Latin Quarter is a place with a good mix of locals, tourists, and students alike. Plus, it is close to the main tourist attractions! So if you’re staying in Paris for the first time, but you don’t necessarily want to stay right in the area where the Louvre is, this is the place for you.

Pros of the Latin Quarter:

• Great location for exploring
• Tons of great bars, restaurants, and attractions nearby
• Good mix of locals and tourists

Cons of the Latin Quarter:

• Can be pretty crowded in some areas
• Isn’t the cheapest place in Paris to stay

Here are some great hotels in the Latin Quarter:

Budget: Hotel Notre Dame Maitre Albert Paris

This hotel may have smaller rooms, but it is a decent price for your stay in the Latin Quarter. This hotel is also close the metro and Seine, meaning you can easily get around during your first time visit to Paris!

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Atmospheres

I’ve stayed here like 2-3 times at this point. And honestly, this is my go-to hotel when traveling with my parents and in-laws. If you’re looking for a hotel that is convenient and has showers you can walk into versus step into and elevators (great for my aging parents and in-laws with their knees), this is the place. As a bonus, it is close to the metro, and the rooms are adorable with good views!

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Relais Hotel du Vieux

If you want a really convenient hotel this is great. It is right next to the RER B train stop, Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame. This means you can hop off your plane, take the RER B train into the city and have a direct way to your hotel without switching to the metro.

As a bonus, it is on a quiet street, has beautifully designed rooms, and is close to the Seine for romantic strolls.

Book it here!

The Overall Best Place to Stay in Paris

This is based purely on opinion, but if it were up to me, the best arrondissement to stay in Paris is the 6th arrondissement (Saint-Germain-des-Pres). With the cafes, tucked-away bakeries, and more, it is my favorite place to stay in Paris.

I also fell in love with the Le Marais (4th arrondissement) on my first visit during a Paris Food Tour. With culinary delights at every corner, beautiful, small parks, and the lovely covered market, you can’t go wrong with Le Marais either.

Tips for Visiting Paris

Now you know where the best place to stay in Paris is… and the answer really depends on your travel style. Whether you’re traveling with little ones, on a honeymoon, are here to shop, or you are exploring Paris for the first time, here are some extra tips for visiting Paris for a day, a week, or more!

1. Stay vigilant!

I mean this, as pickpocketing is pretty common in Paris. It is a large international city with a lot of tourists, so naturally, many fall prey to pickpockets.

However, you can certainly prevent the same from happening to you by keeping an eye on your stuff at all times and having a hand on your belongings in busy places. I also either carry a cross-body anti-theft purse or this belt bag.

2. What to Pack for Paris

During the summer months, a cute sundress, a light scarf (optional), and white shoes for walking are perfect for ladies. I also love dressy shorts with cute tops, or even linen trousers. For men, shorts and a nice shirt with shoes is appropriate.

In the chillier months, I recommend a sweater, scarf, waterproof boots, and jeans for women and waterproof boots, jeans, and a sweater for men. I also love this coat for when it is really cold and my husband loves his wool coat. Don’t forget gloves and earmuffs too!

A trench coat is perfect for chilly days too.

I also recommend packing a small umbrella with you at all times in case of rain, and be sure to pack sunscreen for those hot summer days- the sun can still burn you in the city!

I have a whole article for more information on what to wear in Paris.

3. Best Time to Visit Paris.

There really isn’t a bad time to visit Paris, but to avoid the crowds, I recommend visiting Paris outside of summer. The summer is more expensive with hotels. Christmas is a lovely time to visit, and Paris in January may be chillier, but prices are cheaper and you’ll encounter far fewer crowds! I also have a guide all about when to visit Paris!

4. Budgeting for Paris.

I have a whole guide up about how much to budget for Paris from budget to luxury including food, hotels, activities, and more!

5. Paris is on the euro.

Don’t bother getting euro before going, as you’ll get a crap exchange rate. Instead, just use an ATM in Paris, preferably one inside of a bank, as they are most secure.

Be sure to have a card that doesn’t charge bank fees for this!

When it comes to finding the best part of Paris to stay in, I hope this guide helped you narrow down your choices. Paris is one of my favorite cities in the world, and after visiting it several times, I fall in love with it more each stay. I hope you have the best time and get to explore the iconic sights of the city of lights!

Would you visit Paris? What do you think is the best arrondissement in Paris? Let us know in the comments!

Want to visit France? Check out some travel inspiration!

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