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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 a visit 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 neighborhoods (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.
Map of Paris Arrondissements
Check here for the interactive map of where to stay in Paris!
Where to Stay in Paris Based on Your Travel Style
From the dreamy and colorful buildings of the Montmartre neighborhood to the bustling city center, let me help you find which neighborhood to stay in Paris during your visit.
With 20 arrondissements to choose from, I’ve narrowed it down to the best ones that fit your travel style.
1. 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 next to the Louvre.
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, D’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.
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.
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.
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.
2. 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, otherwise known as Rue Cler, 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 small children much easier.
This area also boasts many great restaurants, bakeries, chocolate shops, and the Rue Cler market.
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.
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.
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.
3. 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! 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.
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.
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.
Montmartre is not only charming but incredibly affordable for your honeymoon!
4. 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 an up-and-coming 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!
And in this area of Paris, you can grab a hotel for around $100 per night sometimes! Check these out:
Budget: Hotel des Buttes Chaumont
This hotel is located right next to the canal and is a lovely place to stay to enjoy the local feel of the neighborhood. While not luxurious, it offers all the basic amenities, and for a good rate, it is a great deal in an even better location. Note this does not have A/C.
Budget: Libertel Canal Saint-Martin
This comfortable hotel is also 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!
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.
5. 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.
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.
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.
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.
6. 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.
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.
Mid-Range: Au Manoir Saint Germain Des Pres
Elegance defines this stunning hotel with opulent fixtures, beautiful views, and everything you need to relax in between sipping cocktails at some of Paris’s best cafes.
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.
7. The 9th- Best Arrondissement to Stay in Paris, France for Nightlife
Eclectic and fun are perfect words to describe the 9th arrondissement, also 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. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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 August. The summer (June-August) 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! We have the KeyBank World Debit MasterCard, but if you don’t have a checking account with them, I recommend the Charles Schwab Bank Visa Platinum debit card.
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!
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Very informative itinerary! Can’t wait to plan my next scenic travel adventure.”
Thank you! I hope this helps!