My Honest Guide On Where to Stay in Paris For the First Time: My 6 Favorite Neighborhoods For Your Stay

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Searching for where to stay in Paris for the first time can be daunting. With 20 arrondissements (aka districts), countless neighborhoods, and over a thousand hotel options, planning a trip to Paris for the first time and picking the perfect hotel is nothing short of intimidating.

Thankfully, after 13 years and 17 visits to Paris (as well as friends who live in Paris), I’ve got plenty of experience to help you pick the best hotels in Paris as well as the right area to stay. 

If you just want a quick and easy answer rather than reading all about the 6 neighborhoods I recommend, then Le Marais is probably the best area to stay in Paris overall, followed by the 5th and 6th arrondissements. 

Stay at a hotel like Le Temple de Jeanne in Le Marais or Hotel Atmospheres in the 5th (Latin Quarter) and you should be good to go.

However, we all have different goals for our trip, even if it is a first-time visit. So I have 6 great areas of Paris worth staying in that hit that sweet spot of 1) plenty of things to do in that particular neighborhood, 2) close to the main attractions and/or on a good metro line, and 3) great atmosphere with bars and restaurants!

I’ll also include pros/cons, things to do in the area, and hotel options (many of which I’ve actually stayed in)!

Let’s get into it!

Oh, and I also have a full guide on where to stay in Paris based on your travel style. Be sure to check that out for 10 amazing places to stay in Paris based on how you want to spend your vacation here.

Paris Pantheon View

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Searching for where to stay in Paris for the first time? After 17 visits to Paris over the last 13 years, I know about where to stay in Paris, especially for first timers who want to enjoy the main attractions, but also stay in an area with great restaurants, things to do, etc. That’s why I’ve got 6 arrondissements to stay in Paris for the first time including the best hotels in Paris for the first time and best hotels in Paris with a view. Click here for your guide!

Contents

Where to Stay in Paris For First Timers Quick Overview

Here is a quick overview of where to stay in Paris for the first time. For pros/cons, things to do in each place, and more hotel options, please keep reading below! You can also use the table of content to jump to a particular area.

Where to Stay in Paris For First Timers

Louvre building in winter

Alright, let’s talk about the best hotels in Paris for first time visitors and the best areas to stay in!

If you don’t know, Paris has 20 arrondissements that start in the 1st and wind around clockwise (like a snail or pain aux raisins shape)! So I’ll start with the 1st and work my way around with the 6 areas.

1st Arrondissement

Kat in front of the Louvre Pyramid

Yes, I also recommend this in my full Where to Stay in Paris Guide, which has a couple of spots for first timers. 

If you’re visiting Paris for the first time and want convenience, to be able to walk to SO many places, and be steps within the main sites, then the 1st is where to go!

This is also perfect for those who are shorter on time because it is so convenient. 

Here are Some Iconic Sites in the 1st Arrondissement:

These attractions are located within the 1st arrondissement, but you’re also super close to Notre Dame, Musée d’Orsay, Grand Palais, Petit Palais, and Place de la Concorde.

View of the obelisk and Eiffel Tower from Place de la Concorde

Where to Eat/Drink in the 1st:

Wine at Les Juveniles
Wine at Juveniles.

Pros of Staying in the 1st Arrondissement:

  • Close to SO many iconic Parisian sites.
  • Several hotel options.
  • Located along Metro Line 1- a very well connected line.
  • 2 fabulous parks.

Cons of the 1st Arrondissements:

  • I’ll be real with you, it’s a touristy area so there aren’t as many great local restaurants and hangouts. 
  • Really busy near the tourist attractions.
  • Hotels can be $$$.
  • Pickpocketing is common here, especially on Metro Line 1 and at the tourist attractions. Please be careful with your things!

Yes, the 1st arrondissement is the most touristy area of Paris, but for good reason! I mean you can take a quick stroll and be at the Louvre, Sainte-Chapelle, etc. 

It is in the heart of city, meaning you can easily walk or get around to other areas quickly, making it an overall great place to stay during a first time trip to Paris!

One Day in Paris | Tuileries Garden fountain

Best Hotels in the 1st Arrondissement:

Mid-Range: Le Relais Saint-Honore

This is super close to the Tuileries and very walkable to the Louvre. It is a great place to base yourself in the heart of the 1st arrondissement.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel La Tamise-Esprit de France

Just steps from the Tuileries and Angelina (great for a hot chocolate for breakfast!), this place couldn’t be more convenient. Also, this place is well-loved on TripAdvisor, with an astounding 4.9/5 stars with 900+ reviews.

Book it here!

Luxury: Grand Hotel du Palais Royal

Trust me, this hotel is definitely on my bucket list…maybe when I 1) go in the winter and 2) save up some cash. With starting prices in the $500s per night, it is pricey, but it is a 5-star hotel complete with stunning rooms and suites, a restaurant and bar, and spa complete with a hammam and jacuzzi (idyllic after a day of exploring). 

Oh, and you’re super close to the Louvre. So that’s not bad either. 

Book it here!

Le Marais is a Fabulous Spot for First Timers in Paris

Place des Vosges in the evening in Paris

Le Marais is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Paris. Located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, this place has a good mix of tourists and locals (one of my friends even lives here!).

It has museums, fabulous shopping, and loads of great bars and restaurants to enjoy. To top it off you can walk to a TON of places from here or take an easy metro ride. For example, from Place des Vosges (the cutest park in Le Marais) you could walk 30 minutes to the Louvre or take a quick 15 minute or so walk/metro ride. 

Things to Do in Le Marais:

There are honestly an endless amount of things to do in Le Marais to make your first time visit to Paris unique and fun! 

Carnavalet Museum in Paris
Musée Carnavalet.

Where to Eat/Drink in Le Marais:

  • Carette: This is located at Place des Vosges and makes some of the best hot chocolate in all of Paris.
  • Chez Janou: Yes, it’s touristy, but it really does have the BEST chocolate mousse I’ve ever tasted, and their food is really good.
  • Le Petit Italien: This Italian restaurant also serves the same chocolate mousse as Chez Janou.
  • L’As du Fallafel: Still the best falafel sandwiches of my life.
  • Marche des Enfants Rouges: This market is one of the oldest in Paris and has tons of great restaurants and food stands.
  • L’Ambroisie: Haute French cuisine for an upscale date night.
  • B.Better: Vegan restaurant!
  • Sain Boulangerie
  • % Arabica Paris Le Marais: For coffee.
  • Le Peloton: Great little coffee shop.
  • Le Barav: Phenomenal wine bar.

As you can see, there are a lot of great places to eat and drink around Le Marais. It is a neighborhood that feels like a neighborhood…with tons to see and do!

Boulangerie and Cafe in Le Marais
Sain Boulangerie.

Pros of Le Marais:

  • SO many great bars, restaurants, and shops to enjoy.
  • Well connected via the metro and also walkable.
  • Many of its own attractions to see that aren’t as crowded as the Louvre.

Cons of Le Marais:

  • It isn’t a hidden gem at all, so yes, there are some crowds.
  • Can be a little pricey, depending on where/when you stay.
  • Some viral restaurants can mean crowds, and it may lose some authenticity like Carette and Chez Janou.

Yes, Le Marais is that girl, and there is a reason it is becoming more and more popular for first time visitors to Paris! It is a vibrant and exciting neighborhood to explore!

Here are Some Great Hotels in Le Marais:

Budget: Le Temple de Jeanne (I’ve stayed here!)

I’ve stayed here before, and it is in a fantastic location (even across from a metro station). Some rooms even have views overlooking the neighborhood! 

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Jeanne d’Arc (I’ve stayed here!)

Hotel Jeanne d'Arc

I’ve also stayed here before and really enjoyed it. However, it is worth noting that they do not have A/C, although they do have strong fans. It is perfectly fine if you’re visiting outside of the summer (I was here in early May), but maybe opt for a hotel with A/C during the hot summer months. Otherwise, it’s a cozy hotel in the heart of the neighborhood that I really enjoyed!

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel de JoBo

This is a hotel on my short list when I return. It is decorated so eclectically and perfectly. It has opulent fixtures, gorgeous rooms, and a stunning wood-polished salon. 

Book it here!

Pro-tip: Want everything you need to know about visiting Paris in one place? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Paris here!

5th Arrondissement (in the Latin Quarter) is Where to Stay in Paris For First Timers 

Panoramic view of Pantheon

This is also in my full where to stay in Paris guide, and I recommend it there for first timers too. I recommend all of these places, obviously, but this particular article is more detailed for first timers specifically. 

The 5th is where you’ll find the Latin Quarter. It has an excellent mix of tourists, locals, and students, as the Sorbonne and the New York University of Paris are located here. 

There are a lot of gems in the Latin Quarter to check out, as well as excellent hotel options! 

Things to Do in the Latin Quarter for Paris First Timers:

  • Pantheon: Mausoleum of famous French citizens, but it also has the best views of Paris from the rooftop!
  • Musée Curie: Museum dedicated to Marie Curie.
  • Jardin des Plantes: Large park with gardens, a zoo, the Gallery of Evolution, and the Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy.
  • Arènes de Lutèce: First-century roman amphitheater in the midst of the city.
  • Grande Mosquée de Paris
  • Shakespeare and Company bookstore
  • CLUNY Museum: The museum of the middle ages.
  • Rue Mouffetard: Market street.
  • Seine: Yes, you can take some fun walks along the Seine here!

Yes, this place also has a ton of great things (and hidden gems in Paris) to explore!

Paris Mosque gardens
Grande Mosquée de Paris.

Where to Eat/Drink in the Latin Quarter:

There are great coffee shops and restaurants here!

Le Vieux Bistro in Paris
Le Vieux Bistrot.

Pros of Staying in the Latin Quarter:

  • SO many great places to explore in its own right.
  • Not as touristy as other areas to stay for first timers in Paris.
  • Great restaurants and coffee shops to enjoy during your stay.
  • Can find cheap eats as this area has a lot of students.

Cons of Staying in the Latin Quarter:

  • Can be crowded the closer you get to the Seine.
  • Not super cheap (although arguably cheaper than, say, the 1st).

Where to stay in the Latin Quarter:

Budget: Hotel Notre Dame Maitre Albert Paris

Small, but a good price for staying in this area, and you’re close to the metro and Seine. This makes it easy for nice walks or just getting around the city.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Atmospheres (I’ve stayed here!)

View from Hotel Atmospheres

I’ve stayed here at least twice, and it is my preferred hotel for my parents and in-laws. With large elevators and walk-in showers, it is good for those with limited mobility. 

Plus, it is also close to the metro (and Maison d’Isabelle for tasty croissants)!

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Relais Hotel du Vieux (I’ve stayed here!)

Relais Hotel du Vieux

I’ve also stayed here too! It is technically in the 6th arrondissement, but it is literally steps from the 5th so I’ll count it here! But the rooms are super adorable (see photo above), and it is right next to the RER B Saint-Michel-Notre-Dame stop. This will take you straight to the airport if you’re going to CDG. 

Yes, that means you can hop off your flight and take the train directly to your hotel. It’s amazing. Plus, it’s in a great area for walking!

Book it here!

6th Arrondissement (in Saint-Germain-des-Pres) is Iconic for First Timers

Saint Germain des Pres in Paris

The 6th arrondissement is iconic. Between literary cafes, the dazzling Jardin du Luxembourg, and overall walkability, this is where to stay in Paris for the first time near the heart of it all.

Walk to Notre Dame. Walk to the Louvre. Have a picnic. Shop. Basically, whatever you want to do, Saint-Germain-des-Pres is the perfect place to base yourself. 

Things to Do in Saint-Germain-des-Pres:

Entrance to Les Deux Magots
  • Thoroughly embrace cafe culture: Visit historical cafes like Les Deux Magots (the BEST hot chocolate), Brasserie Lipp, and Cafe de Flore.
  • Jardin du Luxembourg
  • CityPharma: Get some amazing French pharmacy goodies here!
  • Eglise de Saint-Germain-des-Pres: Visit the oldest church in Paris!
  • Shop at luxury stores: Louis Vuitton, Saint-Laurent, Gucci, Moncler, and Ralph Lauren have boutiques here.
  • Eugene Delacroix Museum
  • Museum of the History of Medicine
  • Seine: Yes, you can walk along the Seine too!

Less museum focused and more shopping and cafe focused, Saint-Germain-des-Pres is a place to kick back and enjoy your surroundings!

Passageway with La Jacobine in Paris

Where to Eat/Drink in the 6th:

There is no shortage of foodie spots here!

Pros of Staying in Saint-Germain-des-Pres as a First Timer:

  • Super walkable to a lot of Paris attractions.
  • Great metro options.
  • Fabulous restaurants, the Jardin du Luxembourg, coffee shops, etc.
  • Very convenient place to stay.
  • Tons of hotel options.

Cons of Staying in Saint-Germain-des-Pres (the 6th):

  • It’s pretty touristy. Look, I’m not going to poo poo on a touristy area. Paris is a touristy city and these areas are popular for a reason! 
  • This area can be expensive for hotels, dining, etc.
Inside of the Abbey in Saint Germain
Eglise de Saint-Germain-des-Pres.

Where to Stay in Saint-Germain-des-Pres:

Mid-Range: Hotel Le Clement

Located in the heart of the arrondissement and steps from Les Deux Magots and Boulevard Saint Germain, this is a great spot to base yourself for exploring Paris for the first time.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Odeon Saint Germain (I’ve stayed here!)

I’ve stayed here a couple of times, and it is a solidly great hotel. It is adorable to begin with, but it is also super close to bars, restaurants, and just exploring in general. 

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Da Vinci & Spa

This more luxurious spot is a smaller boutique hotel with 24 rooms and even has a spa for relaxing after a day of walking around.

Book it here!

Pigalle (in the 9th Arrondissement) is a Unique Place to Stay in Paris For First Timers

Pigalle Neighborhood in Paris

I love Pigalle. I love it more and more each time I stay and spend time there. I’ve stayed in Pigalle on 2 separate trips, and each time this neighborhood intrigues me.

It’s located at the top of the 9th arrondissement and just below Montmartre. And this place has fabulous places to eat, get coffee, grab a baguette, or even enjoy a night on the town. 

It’s iconic, it’s lived in, and I just can’t get enough of Pigalle. 

Stairs at Gustave Moreau Museum
Musée Gustave Moreau.

Things to Do in Pigalle:

  • Musée de la Vie Romantique: I love this museum located in the former home of painter Ary Scheffer. The tea room is also dreamy and located in a little garden area. However, this museum is closed for a bit.
  • Musée Gustave Moreau: This museum has works of artist Gustave Moreau.
  • Explore nearby Montmartre
  • Moulin Rouge: Yes, visit this famous burlesque spot!
  • Eat and drink

Much like Saint-Germain-des-Pres, this isn’t a museum and attraction-focused place to stay in Paris. However, there are great places to eat, drink, and stay here!

No Entry Bar in Pink Mamma
No Entry.

Where to eat/drink in Pigalle:

Yes, the list is long when it comes to where to eat, get pastries, drink coffee, and go out. It is definitely an area of Paris that is great for nightlife. But it is a part of Paris that feels lived in and fun.

Pros of Staying in Pigalle:

  • SO many excellent places to eat and drink.
  • Close to Montmartre so you can explore that area easily!
  • Fairly affordable area of Paris to visit.
  • As Pigalle is up the hill in Paris, some hotels here have great views over the city!

Cons of Staying in Pigalle:

  • The further north you’re going, the further from the main attractions like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, etc. that you are.
  • This area can be a little seedy at night, especially around Boulevard de Clichy. While I’ve felt fine overall, if you’re traveling alone, you may not want to stay here and walk around at night. 

Where to Stay in Pigalle

Room at Hotel Artemisia Montmartre
Photo of Hotel Artemisia Montmartre, provided by my friend, Amanda, from A Dangerous Business.

Mid-Range: Hotel Artemisia Montmartre

Technically, this hotel is located in Pigalle (although Montmartre and Pigalle do blend together in places). This place has a spa, and even the Suite Montmartre has views of either Sacre Coeur or the Eiffel Tower! My friend stayed here recently and LOVED it.

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel Rochechouart

This hotel has an iconic rooftop bar. Plus, it has such a great vibe overall, perfect for your stay!

Book it here!

Luxury: Maison Souquet

This hotel is also on my bucket list to stay. This 5-star hotel has a combo of Napoleon III and Arabian-style decor, plus it has a spa, velvety bar, and is just a sexy spot to base yourself to explore Paris.

Book it here!

Montmartre (in the 18th) is My Final Recommendation on Where to Stay in Paris For First Time Visitors

Park on the Other Side of Sacre Coeur
Parc Marcel Bleustein Blanchet dit Parc de la Turlure.

Ahh Montmartre. This is the place for lovers. Set on the hill overlooking Paris, this place has fabulous views of the city and is just a dreamy place to wander around!

It is also a fairly affordable area to stay in Paris for first timers. So let’s talk about staying in Montmartre.

Sacre Coeur in Paris

Things to Do in Montmartre:

  • Sacre Coeur: Another iconic church in Paris. I recommend climbing to the top inside the church for epic views over the city.
  • Parc Marcel Bleustein Blanchet dit Parc de la Turlure: Hidden gem park on the other side of the Sacre Coeur. 
  • Église Saint-Pierre de Montmartre: Hidden gem old church next to Sacre Coeur.
  • Dali Museum
  • Musée de Montmartre: Museum of the history of Montmartre and has the Montmartre Vineyard.
  • Le Mur des Je t’aime: The iconic Love Wall.
  • Rue de l’Abreuvoir: The prettiest street in Paris.
  • Square Nadar: Square with a dog park and Eiffel Tower views.
  • Place du Tertre: Full of cafes and artists at work.

Montmartre is worth a whole day to explore and enjoy! And if you’re staying there, it’s a great place to explore deeper.

Chickpea mash at Les Boites Aux Lettres
La Boîte aux Lettres.

Where to eat/drink in Montmartre:

Montmartre has so many great places to eat and drink!

Pros of Staying in Montmartre:

  • Staying in the hilly part of Paris means you may have spectacular views depending on where you stay!
  • So many attractions in its own right.
  • Great places to eat and drink during your first time in Paris.
  • Pretty affordable area to stay in.

Cons of Staying in Montmartre:

  • It can be a hike to get up here. If you’re short on time, I wouldn’t recommend staying in Montmartre as it isn’t super close to everything.
  • Lots of steps. Even the Abbesses metro line has 176 steps to climb to get out (there thankfully are elevators)! But Montmartre is a hilly neighborhood.
  • Pickpocketing can happen, especially at the Sacre Coeur and near Place du Tertre. Just be vigilant.
Montmartre in Paris

Where to Stay in Montmartre

Budget: Hotel Le Chat Noir

Each floor here is dedicated to a famous poet during the times of cabaret, and the decor reflects the cabaret period in general. Plus, the Suite Prestige has Eiffel Tower views!

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Hotel des Arts-Montmartre (I’ve stayed here!)

Hotel des Arts Montmartre

This cozy spot is a great base for exploring Montmartre. It’s also close to the metro! I’ve stayed here before and really enjoyed it!

Book it here!

Mid-Range: Terrass” Hotel (I’ve stayed here!)

Terrass Hotel in Paris

I stayed here recently and LOVED it. For starters, there is a rooftop bar and restaurant that has amazing views overlooking the city. Second, the rooms are instantly charming. And we even upgraded to the Privilege Room – Eiffel Tower View and had views of the Eiffel Tower! This is my favorite hotel in Paris!

Book it here!

Why I Don’t Recommend Staying Near the Eiffel Tower During Your First Trip to Paris

Kat, Megan, and Amanda in front of the Eiffel Tower on Rue de l'Universite

You’re probably seeing this list and wondering why I haven’t mentioned any hotels located in the 7th arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower. The 7th is a fabulous arrondissement and the area around the Eiffel Tower is really nice.

However… the Eiffel Tower is actually quite far from most of the things to do in Paris. So you’d be taking the metro to see and do most things in the city. That isn’t exactly a fun way to spend your first time in Paris.

I also think some of the best Eiffel Tower views are from Montmartre as it overlooks the city since it’s a hilly neighborhood.

Now I’ve stayed near the Eiffel Tower before, and I enjoyed my hotel (Cler Hotel by the way), as well as loved Rue Cler. However, I didn’t love how far it was from everything else, and there isn’t a ton to do in the area outside of the Eiffel Tower and some restaurants/coffee shops. 

Again, you can certainly do what you want. And if you’re set on having a hotel near the Eiffel Tower, go for it! It’s your vacation, after all. But I’d recommend staying here perhaps on subsequent visits when you’ve seen most of the bigger attractions in Paris.

That wraps up my guide on where to stay in Paris for first time visitors including the best hotels for first time visitors! I love each of these areas for different reasons, and each one is great!

I do love that each of these spots is a great base for exploring the city, has enough things to do on its own, and even has amazing food and drink options so you can enjoy the neighborhood further.

I hope this helps you narrow down your choices, and be sure to check out my full guide on where to stay in Paris based on your travel style

Visiting Paris soon? Check out these posts!

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Searching for where to stay in Paris for the first time? After 17 visits to Paris over the last 13 years, I know about where to stay in Paris, especially for first timers who want to enjoy the main attractions, but also stay in an area with great restaurants, things to do, etc. That’s why I’ve got 6 arrondissements to stay in Paris for the first time including the best hotels in Paris for the first time and best hotels in Paris with a view. Click here for your guide!
Searching for where to stay in Paris for the first time? After 17 visits to Paris over the last 13 years, I know about where to stay in Paris, especially for first timers who want to enjoy the main attractions, but also stay in an area with great restaurants, things to do, etc. That’s why I’ve got 6 arrondissements to stay in Paris for the first time including the best hotels in Paris for the first time and best hotels in Paris with a view. Click here for your guide!

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