🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 9 (from laksa006)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa009.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris","crawl_time":1775840130,"first_indexed_time":1746583761,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,goaskalocal!\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris s443","src_root_hash":"8792626897214618209","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Where to Stay in Paris - A Local’s Neighborhood Guide — Go Ask A Local","meta_descriptions":["A comprehensive guide to where to stay in Paris, including our 5 recommended neighborhoods and great hotels in each of them."],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Where to Stay in Paris - Best Neighborhoods & Hotels\nAffiliate disclosure: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it!\nA trip to Paris is always a big deal and when you’re visiting the most beautiful city in the world, you really do want both your hotel and neighborhood to live up to your expectations. And if you, like most people, are staying here for more than just a couple of days, where you stay can have a huge impact on your trip and overall impression of Paris.\nBut deciding where to stay here is no easy feat, especially given that this fabulous city has more than 2,000 hotels and\n285,000\nshort-term rentals. That’s a lot of choice - too much if you ask me!\nA friend once remarked that deciding where to stay in Paris is like standing in front of a pâtisserie counter with 100 different pastries; everything looks amazing but it’s impossible to choose because there’s just too much to take in.\nAnd that’s why I’ve written this guide! In it, I’ve recommended my 5 favorite neighborhoods for visitors and described each of them comprehensively. I’ve broken down the key aspects of each neighborhood and have tried to carefully weigh the pros and cons so that you have a clear picture and can decide which ones are likely to be a good fit for you. I’ve also included some suggested hotels in each at various price points.\nAs a long-time Paris resident (I’ve lived here for over 20 years now), I know the city well and admittedly have very strong opinions on which areas are best for visitors. I’m not just an opinionated local though - I’ve also authored multiple guidebooks on Paris and have spent countless hours wandering the city’s many neighborhoods and visiting hundreds of hotels within them.\nAt the end of the article, I’ve also addressed the “thorny issue” of Montmartre, and have given quick overviews of 3 other neighborhoods that I think are potentially good choices if you don’t find what you’re looking for in my main recommendations.\nTable of Contents\nA few key things to know\nQuick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods \nMap of my recommended hotels\n1. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)\n2. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)\n3. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)\n4. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)\n5. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)\nOther neighborhoods to consider\nMontmartre - why I don’t recommend it\nFrequently asked questions\nMore France travel info\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a\ncustom private tour!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a\ncustom private tour!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\nA few key things to know\nParis’s arrondissements, with the Seine River dividing the city into the left and right banks. Photo:\nHmaglione10\n,\nCC BY-SA 4.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons\nBefore getting into my neighborhood recommendations, I think it’s useful to provide a quick look at Paris’ layout and geography as that will help you understand everything to follow in this article.\nHere are the main things to think about:\nArrondissements\nThe first thing to know is that Paris is encircled by a ring road, within which are 20 fixed administrative districts called\narrondissements\n(abbreviated to arr.). Numbered 1 through 20, they spiral out in a snail shape starting from the Louvre (1st arr.) and ending in the 20th in the north-east. In general, the higher the number, the farther the district is from the city center.\nNeighborhoods\nBecause the arrondissements are quite large and have distinct areas within them, they can be further broken down into individual neighborhoods, which have names as opposed to numbers. This is how we Parisians actually think of the city - by neighborhood - as the arrondissements are mostly just used for official governmental purposes. You’ve probably already heard of some of these areas: Montmartre, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain des Près, etc.\nUnlike the arrondissements, these neighborhoods aren't defined by firm borders, so just be aware that some of them actually straddle multiple arrondissements. I know that’s confusing, so let me explain: places like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre lie squarely within one arrondissement (the 5th and 18th, respectively) while others, like the Marais, straddle multiple. The cool neighborhood of Nation, for example, falls within 3 different arrondissements - the 11th, 12th and 20th.\nRiver Seine - Left Bank and Right Bank\nNext, you’ve got Paris’s principal geographic feature to consider: the River Seine, which cuts through the middle of the city from west to east, creating the Right Bank (\nRive Droite\n) on the northern side, and the Left Bank (\nRive Gauche\n) on the southern side. As you can see on the map above, the right bank covers arrondissements 1-4, 8-12, and 16-20, while the left bank covers 5, 6, 7, and 13-15.\nHistorically, the Left Bank was known for being intellectual and bohemian, while the Right Bank was more business-oriented and bourgeois, but those distinctions don’t hold true at all anymore. They haven’t for many, many years, so don’t listen to anyone who describes them that way.\nRegarding sights, many of the city’s famous landmarks and attractison are spread out along the length of the River Seine, usually within a quick walk of the water. This means that there’s no one touristic center in which you’ll find all the main sights packed close together.\nPublic transport\nParis is a relatively small, walkable capital. On foot, you can cover its entire breadth from east to west - taking in a bucket-list worth of sights along the way - in as little as 2-3 hours.\nWhen you don’t want to walk, the city also has one of best metro systems in the world with 16 lines and 303 stations that comprehensively cover just about everywhere that you’ll want to go. As long as you stay near a convenient metro station, you should be able to get most everywhere quite quickly and efficiently.\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with\nlocal guide Pascal!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with\nlocal guide Pascal!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\nQuick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods \nThe 5 neighborhoods that I’ve recommended in this guide are all convenient, centrally located, and very pleasant places to spend time. They’re all good bases for first-timers (easy access to the big sights and good transport connections) and have a great selection of hotels. Realistically, you’ll do just fine by picking any of them.\nHowever, they offer significantly different atmospheres and certain types of travelers are sure to prefer some over others. So, as you read through this guide, my main piece of advice would be to consider which area you think best aligns with the version of Paris you want to experience and then choose accordingly.\nNo matter what area you choose, make sure that your hotel is close to a metro stop. Paris’ sights are spread widely throughout the city and no area offers walkability to everything, so you will absolutely need to use public transport. If you ignore this advice, you’ll quickly find out why that dreamy hotel you booked was such good value; 20-minute slogs to the metro get old pretty fast.\nWith the basics covered, now let’s take a quick look at my 5 main recommended areas.\n1 - Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissement)\n- red on the map above\nThe Marais is my top recommendation, especially for first-time visitors who will be doing a lot of sightseeing. It’s extremely central, always lively and bustling, and is Paris’ only remaining medieval area with narrow streets and seriously charming architecture. The Picasso museum and the Pompidou center, along with a host of other cultural institutions and sights are right in the neighborhood, and it’s also overflowing with boutique shops, trendy cafés, good bakeries, and bars and restaurants. It’s trendy and tourist-friendly, but also popular with locals.\n2 - The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)\n- purple above\nOver on the Left Bank and just across the River Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral, this historic students’ quarter is equal parts bohemian, intellectual\/academic, and touristy. It’s full of quaint, narrow streets that wind between big monuments like the Panthéon and the Sorbonne university, and there are tons of low-key cafés and affordable restaurants. Given the large student population there’s also very fun nightlife, although it skews a bit young. You have great greenery here as well via the Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin Des Plantes.\n3 - Saint-Germain des Près (6th Arrondissement)\n- black\/grey above\nAs central as you can get, this wealthy and elegant Left Bank area is filled with art galleries, chic shops, and historic literary cafés. It’s very upscale, but in a classy and understated way and is the type of neighborhood you’ll dream about buying yourself a townhouse in (for only $10,000,000!). If you’ve got a healthy budget and are looking to stay somewhere beautiful, convenient, and well-heeled, this is a fabulous choice.\n4 - Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) -\nyellow above\nThe 11th arrondissement is a young, hip, and lively residential district where you can get a real feel for what actual local life is like in Paris. It’s not as grand as the other areas that I’ve recommended in this guide and it has very few sights, but it’s a great part of the city to just hang out in. It’s not a touristy area and it has a great dining scene, very good nightlife (mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues), and some excellent shopping streets. If you’re looking for neighborhood vibes and to get away from the tourist crowds, I heartily recommend it.\n5 - Champs-Élysées (8th Arrondissement)\n- blue above\nA bit to the northwest of the city center, this grand and imposing neighborhood is a very posh part of town that’s teeming with luxury shops, high-end hotels, and swanky cocktail bars. Unabashedly commercial and also a business hub, it can feel a bit impersonal, however. There’s also a host of world-class museums and cultural centers within walking distance, making it the ideal base for luxury travelers who want to mix shopping with culture.\nMap of my recommended hotels\nIf you’re just looking for some quick suggestions for accommodation, the map below shows all the hotels that I’ve recommended throughout this guide. It includes options across my 5 recommended neighborhoods and at all different price points.\nHappy (hotel) hunting!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with\nlocal guide Pascal!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with\nlocal guide Pascal!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\n1. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)\nBest for:\nBasically everyone;\nanyone looking for a great combination of museums\/sights, art, shopping, and food\nPros:\nBeautiful and historic area; heavily pedestrianized; tons of sights; good shopping and dining; extremely central; mix of local and touristic feel\nCons:\nExtremely busy at all times; pretty touristy; accommodation is expensive\nThe half-timber houses on Rue François Miron. Photo:\nMbzt\n,\nCC BY-SA 4.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons\nAlways my top recommendation for first-time visitors, the Marais is a beautiful, charming, and historic neighborhood at the very heart of Paris. It has gorgeous architecture, a wealth of pedestrianized streets, and is absolutely filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and a big array of sights and attractions. This is the one neighborhood that really does have it all.\nSpanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the right bank of the Seine River, in addition to being lovely, the Marais is also super central and exceptionally convenient as a base for sightseeing. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance to many of Paris’s major sights - like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pompidou Center, the Louvre, Île Saint-Louis - and other wonderful neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près and the Latin Quarter just across the river. You also have easy access to public transport via the 5 metro lines that pass through here. For pure convenience, this neighborhood simply cannot be beat.\nIn terms of atmosphere, the streets are always bustling with a nice mix of tourists and locals, who come here mostly to shop at the nice little boutiques. This is the only neighborhood in Paris that retains its medieval architecture and layout, so the streets are narrow and winding and many are pedestrianized, making it the perfect area for leisurely strolls. This is especially true of the less-crowded streets in the Haut Marais (the upper part of the neighborhood farther from the river).\nRegarding accommodation, most hotels are fairly upscale and pretty expensive, but you can still find bargains. If you like boutique and design-forward properties, you’ll have lots to choose from.\nFor sightseeing, the area’s graceful 17th and 18th-century mansions house a bevy of interesting museums, you have one of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks - the Place des Vosges, and there are a host of charming squares and gardens that are delightfully tucked away out of sight.\nAs you wander the streets, you’ll pass a never-ending array of contemporary art galleries, hip coffee shops, Instagrammable pâtisseries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. There’s not much in the way of “heavy” nightlife, but you do have some very nice wine and cocktail bars.\nWhen choosing where to eat, do be aware that there are a fair deal of tourist traps here so you’ll want to do some research rather than deciding at random. Because this is a popular area for dining, many of the better restaurants also require advance booking.\nNowhere is truly perfect though, so let me quickly admit that my glowing recommendation comes with a caveat: those who dislike crowds and bustle or anyone who prefers something more off-the-beaten-path should probably look elsewhere. This is Paris’s most popular neighborhood - for Parisians and tourists alike - and its both busy and pretty touristy. It absolutely doesn’t feel overrun by tourism, but you’ll hear as much English and Spanish as you will French.\nMy recommended hotels\nLe Pavillon de la Reine\n- Great for a splurge, this luxury boutique hotel set back from the elegant Place des Vosges has a private mansion feel, with an enclosed ivy-clad garden and a sumptuous décor (think velvet and bold patterns and colors and designer furnishings). The excellent in-hotel restaurant Anne has a Michelin star. €700\nSO\/Paris\n- One of Paris’s “see and be seen” hotels, this beautiful lodging, set a few steps off the Seine river in a quiet residential area in the lower Marais, is catnip to the fashion crowd (and Emily in Paris) for its superb design and luxe rooms. Not to mention the views: these are some of the very best in Paris, right from your room’s picture windows. It’s restaurant Bonnie’s is a great place to take in the views, and the scene, especially from the top-floor cocktail bar and club. €500+\nL’Hôtel du Petit Moulin\n- Set in a 19th-century bakery with a décor by Christian Lacroix, this quirky 4-star hotel is a favorite of the fashion crowd. Lacroix’s signature riot of patterns and colors reigns here in everything from giant butterfly motifs and leopard-prints to trompe l’oeil theater scenes. The result is great, lively fun. €350\nHôtel Jules & Jim\n- This 4-star hotel set among lively cafés and bars retains an air of calm, thanks to a double courtyard that acts as a café-cocktail bar for all seasons, with a roaring outdoor fireplace in chilly weather. Spare modern rooms in monochrome whites and greys come with high-tech touches. Book a top-floor room for fab views over the Paris’s silvery rooftops. €230\nHôtel Boudoir des Muses\n- It’s hard to resist the romantic fun of this cozy boutique hotel just steps from the Marais’s most fashionable coffee bars, boutiques, you name it. Along with a super-chic room, the velvet-clad cabaret and romantic swimming pool “salons” (bookable for a private hour for two) put the ooh la la in your stay—and so does the affordable price. €220\nHôtel Caron de Beaumarchais\n- Smack in the center of the Marais, this 3-star lodging, named for the Enlightenment-era playwright, is decked out like an 18th-century boudoir, with miles of toile-de-jouy wallpaper and antiques galore. Expect extra-cozy rooms (even for Paris)—a small price for a spot in the beating heart of the city. €200\nHôtel Emile Le Marais\n- Right by the St Paul Metro station, this small 2-star hotel has a lot going for it: great location, simple but well-decorated rooms (many with balconies), comfy mattresses and a pleasant little breakfast area. It’s a top choice if you’re on a budget. €190\n2. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)\nBest for:\nYounger travelers; families; visitors who want to be central but in a local area\nPros:\nVery central; plenty of affordable bars and restaurants; fun but not over-the-top nightlife; surprisingly reasonable hotel prices\nCons:\nStudent-heavy areas are noisy; sub-par public transit; very little shopping; a few areas are very touristy\nPlace de la Sorbonne\nLooking down the Place de la Sorbonne\nThe Natural History Museum in the Jardin des Plantes. Photo:\nBenh LIEU SONG\n,\nCC BY 3.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons\nAlthough it’s right in central Paris and just a quick (and lovely) stroll across the River Seine from the Marais, the Latin Quarter feels totally distinct. Whereas I regard the Marais as a great place to spend a few days, I - along with many other Parisians - consider the Latin Quarter a great place to actually live.\nLeafy and academic-feeling, the neighborhood has been home to the prestigious Sorbonne University for eight centuries and its presence dominates the area. As you wander around, you’ll see young students rubbing elbows with long-time residents, professors heading to and from class, and a fair few visitors making their way between the neat mix of greater and lesser-known monuments found here.\nI personally love the atmosphere and think it feels very cozy and homey. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to go for a leisurely afternoon stroll, especially when I’m hosting visitors who almost always feel as positively about the area as I do. It’s not nearly as cosmopolitan and exciting as the Marais, but away from the few pockets of touristy areas, it feels residential, local, and lived-in. It has a certain timeless feel to it and it’s easy to picture what life was like here even centuries ago.\nBeyond the cozy atmosphere, I also appreciate the diversity of its attractions: you’ve got bustling markets, stately monuments, spacious parks (like the wonderful Jardin des Plantes and Luxembourg Gardens), gorgeous old churches, some good museums, and even vestiges of Paris’s Roman past (the arena and Roman baths). It’s a very cool selection of sights and they’re varied enough that almost everyone can find something they’re interested in.\nFor great people watching, I always like to to head to spots like Rue Mouffetard, one of Paris’s oldest and most scenic market streets, and Place de l’Estrapade near the Panthéon - which is sure to be recognizable to “\nEmily in Paris”\nfans as her square of residence.\nThe dining scene here is pretty good too, although some of it is student-oriented (think fast casual establishments) and the wine bars and restaurants aren’t usually super trendy. You’ll find lots of good quality sit-down restaurants though, and the atmosphere at them is usually relaxed and mostly local. I find that they’re great spots to settle in for a casual evening of good food, wine, and conversation.\nRegarding accommodation, hotels reflect the neighborhood character and tend to be smaller and often locally-run. Lots of them are quite nice and have very French design choices, but you also have a good selection of traditional 3-star hotels.\nOne major drawback to staying in the Latin Quarter is that public transport here is rather poor. Although there are three metro lines, there are few stops and you’ll inevitably find that the “nearest” station is always a little further than you want it to be. Because of this, I often refer to the neighborhood as the “Bermuda Triangle of Paris”. It’s not a huge deal since you can walk most places from, but it’s something to consider.\nOverall, if you’re looking for a neighborhood that is close to the big tourist sights, but slightly removed from the crowds and touristy atmosphere, I think that the Latin Quarter checks all the boxes.\nMy recommended hotels\nHôtel Pilgrim\n- Set on a quiet street a block from the river, across from a lovely medieval abbey, this chic boutique hotel with loft-like interiors boasts an interior garden and rooftop bar, a spa with a small pool and sleek, tasteful rooms with rooftop views and plenty of calm. €370\nHôtel Grand Coeur Latin\n- The swimming pool and spa are a big draw at this hip 4-star lodging. Rooms are sleekly decorated and the chic cocktail bar, with an outdoor terrace, offers drinks and snacks all day. €370\nHôtel Monge\n- Housed in an elegant Haussmannian building near the Arènes de Lutèce and Jardin des Plantes (from where it draws its romantic floral motif), you’ll feel like you’re visiting a private home while staying here. The tearoom, honesty bar, hammam, and massage room make it a seriously relaxing place to return after a day on the town. €330\nHôtel Jardin de Cluny\n- A refined nature-inspired décor, stellar location by the Sorbonne, and some adjoining rooms (great for groups) make this a perenially popular choice. €275\nHôtel des Grands Hommes\n- You’re literally across from the Panthéon at this elegant 3-star hotel. In fact, front rooms offer views straight onto the monument. The classic décor privileges toile de jouy fabrics and antique furniture. A good central spot. €260\nHôtel des Grandes Ecoles\n- Set at the end of a leafy courtyard, this lovely hidden hotel feels like a day in the country, with trees brushing your window and the floral wallpaper lending it a bucolic vibe. Sip your morning coffee under the trees to the chirping of birds. A favorite budget hotel in Paris. €180\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a\ncustom private tour!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a\ncustom private tour!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\n3.\nSaint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)\nBest for:\nLuxury travelers; families with kids; anyone looking for a chic & cosmopolitan neighborhood\nPros:\nSuper central location; very pretty; filled with boutiques and art galleries; excellent high-end dining; nearby gardens and green spaces\nCons:\nEverything is rather high-end; some parts are very touristy; pretty quiet in the evenings\nRue de Médicis next to the Jardin du Luxembourg\nThe corner of Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine\nCour du Commerce St. André\nThe Odéon Theatre in Saint-Germain\nAlong with the Marais, this is the Paris neighborhood that I spend the most time in, for reasons both practical and indulgent. I personally love it and think it’s an excellent base for wealthier travelers who want to stay in an elegant area that feels quintessentially Parisian.\nUpscale but lived-in, Saint-Germain possesses a refined but slightly bohemian quality. A real local neighborhood, you’ll find a diverse but distinctly wealthy crowd here, from artists, actors, authors, expats, and “\ngauche-caviar\n” intellectuals (look it up!) to Parisian families who have lived in the same sprawling apartments for generations.\nDespite being walking distance to pretty much everywhere in central Paris, you may find that you barely leave the neighborhood. This is because you have everything at your fingertips right here - great dining and drinking, chic boutique hotels, designer and budget shopping, a few major sights, lots of interesting history, and charm galore.\nA historic literary quarter, it was here that artists, writers, and philosophers once gathered to argue, drink, and drink some more. Back in the day, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir made the cafés Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore their headquarters, while Hemmingway held court at the Brasserie Lipp. Those establishments are still standing and while they now overflow with tourists, they are undeniably atmospheric and grand.\nThings have changed quite a bit since the days of Hemingway, but this is still the publishing epicenter of Paris and it continues to feel a bit high-brow and intellectual (in a good way!), with picturesque brasseries and cafés, sprawling sidewalk terraces, and many bookstores and upscale boutiques. The atmosphere is wonderful and it’s a lovely place to while away the day and do some prime people-watching.\nThis is also hands down my favorite shopping neighborhood, as you have many wonderful stores with all kinds of merchandise and it doesn’t feel nearly as teeming and commercial as the Marais or as ostentatiously rich as the Champs-Élysées. Shopping here will still put a dent in your wallet, but you’ll have a great time while blowing your budget!\nIrresistible boutiques aside, Saint-Germain’s warren of beautiful narrow streets also harbor great cheese, pastry, and wine shops (especially on the Rue du Bac), eclectic art galleries, sidewalk crêperies, and tons of wine bars and cafés. It’s also Paris’s chocolate center, boasting at least 15 world-class chocolatiers. In short, you will never struggle to find somewhere good to eat or drink while here.\nI also think this is a great location for families (those who can afford the high hotel prices) due to the proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’ most wonderful parks. Its spacious playground, reflecting pool, marionette theater, and the city’s oldest carousel never fail to enchant kids, while its tennis and pétanque courts, garden cafés, sculptures, fountains, and the great Musée du Luxembourg keep the grownups happy too.\nThe public transit is pretty good too, with various metro stations and 3 lines running through the neighborhood, as well as an RER train station that offers direct access to Charles de Gaulle Airport.\nOverall, this is a simply fabulous neighborhood and you can’t go wrong staying here. The only reason it isn’t my top recommendation is that it’s very expensive (hotels, restaurants, and shops) and I’m aware that it will be a stretch for lots of visitors. Having said that, if you can find a hotel that looks good and is within your budget, don’t hesitate – book it!\nMy recommended hotels\nL’Hôtel\n-\nOscar Wilde died broke and alone on the ground floor of this small bijoux hotel made over in sumptuous damask and velvet by star decorator Jacques Garcia. Rooms dedicated to period heroines are dressed up like plush Victorian boudoirs. There’s the opulent cocktail bar and a pool in the medieval stone cellar. €620\nHôtel d’Aubusson\n- A mix of traditional elegance and modern grandeur reigns in this  5-star lodging in the heart of Saint-Germain. The outdoor terrace is a delight in warm weather, and the spa features a pool, steam room and sauna. Jazz nights in the hotel’s famous Café Laurent is a big draw for local Parisians. €550\nHôtel Dame des Arts\n- Popular among the fashion crowd, there’s a sleek mid-century modern vibe in the rooms, some with balconies. The restaurant doubles as a cocktail bar, and the splendid rooftop bar offers 180° views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. €420\nHôtel des Grands Voyageurs\n- This sleek Art Deco-inspired 4-star offers stylish rooms with burnished wood and vintage touches, and a gleaming restaurant and cocktail bar that conjure the 1920’s heyday of transatlantic travel. €376\nHôtel des Marronniers\n- This 36-room hotel set on picturesque rue Jacob is a good budget option, with comfortable (if minuscule) rooms and a leafy courtyard garden that serves as an all-day tearoom and relaxation space. €200\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with\nlocal guide Pascal!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with\nlocal guide Pascal!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\n4. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)\nBest for:\nAnyone looking for local life and relaxed neighborhood vibes; visitors on longer trips\nPros:\nLively local area; excellent dining and nightlife; nice clothing shops by local French brands; relatively few tourists; affordable accommodation\nCons:\nNo major sights; farther from the city center; no classic Parisian charm\nRue de la Roquette in the 11th arr. Photo:\nMbzt\n,\nCC BY 4.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons\nRue de Lappe in the 11th\nHeading east of the Marais and a bit farther from the absolute center of the city, you’ll quickly reach the 11th Arrondissement. This is a lively and predominantly local area that has a pleasantly youthful and urban air to it. It’s become one of the most desirable areas of Paris to live in recent years, especially for professionals in their 30s and 40s, and it’s very hip and trendy these days (in a good way).\nThe district is pretty sizable, so the parts of it that I’d primarily recommend you consider are the neighborhoods around Place de la Bastille and Rue Oberkampf.\nBoth areas are a little bit hipster-y for sure and they lack the grandeur and classic Parisian charm of more central neighborhoods, but they’re positively brimming with good restaurants, fun but relaxed bars, cool coffee shops, and interesting little boutiques that are mainly stocked with French brands. This is especially true along the lively streets of Rues de Charonne, Roquette, Keller, Oberkampf, and the Marché Aligre.\nAs I just said, these neighborhoods are definitely not as posh or grand as those closer to the Seine or the Louvre, and the architecture isn’t nearly as pretty, but they’re fun, local areas that offer a really nice chance to mix it up with normal Parisians and see how they actually live. You also don’t have to worry about tourist traps here, which is super refreshing when compared to the more popular areas that overflow with them.\nHotels tend to be much more affordable here and you can often find very nice ones for much cheaper prices than in more touristy neighborhoods. There is also a nice selection of reasonably-priced, but decent 2 and 3-star hotels, making the 11th an ideal choice for anyone on a budget in addition to visitors who just want to feel like they’re living in “real” Paris for a few days.\nThe tradeoff for the good prices and local atmosphere is that staying here puts you a bit farther away from many of the places you’re likely to want to visit and there aren’t any major sights. With that in mind, staying closer to Place de la Bastille is a good choice if you’re planning to do a fair deal of sightseeing as it’s right on the border with the Marais, somewhere you’ll undoubtedly spend a bit of time in. The rest of the neighborhood is also well connected by metro, so as long as you’re ok using transit, you’ll have no problem getting around.\nThe 11th isn’t the most conventional of choices, but I think it’s a really nice option for urban travelers in their late 20s and 30s and really just about anyone else wanting to stay in a local area that is lively and interesting, but away from the crowds. Because it’s a real residential neighborhood, it’s also ideal for people spending more than just a couple of days in Paris.\nMy recommended hotels\nHôtel Fabric Paris Oberkampf\n- Sleek hotel with design-forward rooms and stylish common areas. Close to loads of great dining and nightlife and cool independent shops. You’re also walking distance to the Marais and some good museums. €300-350\nNew Hotel République\n- Very boutique 4-star hotel with nicely renovated rooms that feel classy, but understated. You’re also near lots of good restaurants and bars on Rue Oberkamp (and the metro), but just removed enough for it to be quiet and peaceful. €160-300\nHotel Marais Bastille\n- Nice little hotel overlooking leafy Bréguet-Sabin Square and just a block away from 3 different metro stops. The rooms are a decent size, breakfast is pretty good, and the staff is helpful.  €170-230\nGrand Hotel Francais\n- Somewhat dated but immaculately maintained and with a certain charm, this is always one of my top recommendations for a budget-ish stay in the city center. The location on Rue Voltaire is surrounded by good local restaurants, two metro stops, and convenient things like supermarkets, pharmacies, etc. €110-200\nOh la la Hotel\n-\nPleasant 3-star hotel right next to the Bastille metro stop and a quick walk into the Marais. Place des Voges is just a couple blocks away. The rooms are on the smaller side, but new, modern, and comfy. €100-190\nHotel Paris Voltaire\n- Somewhat quirky and definitely no-frills, this 2-star hotel is a solid budget option. The colorful rooms are small, but comfortable enough and the location right beside the Voltaire metro stop makes getting around easy. €100-140\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with\nlocal guide Pascal!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with\nlocal guide Pascal!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\n5. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)\nBest for:\nTravelers looking for glamour and panache; anyone who wants an super luxurious hotel; high-end shoppers; those prioritizing proximity to the museums\nPros:\nArchitecturally grand and impressive; huge number of designer shops; opulent hotels; tons of museums; great transit connections\nCons:\nVery crowded; filled with tourists and office workers; very expensive; can feel impersonal\nAvenue des Champs Elysées seen from he Arc de Triomhe. Photo:\nJosh Hallett\n,\nCC BY-SA 2.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons.\nGrand architecture along the\nAvenue des Champs Elysées\nRue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. Photo:\nCelette\n,\nCC BY-SA 4.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons\nIf you’re looking for a neighborhood that screams Parisian grandeur, this is it. An upscale and stunningly impressive area, the 8th arrondissement is what many people imagine when they picture Paris. Think broad boulevards, elegantly sculpted 19th-century Haussman-era buildings, and gargantuan monuments. Plus shopping - a whole lot of luxury shopping.\nLocated on the Right Bank and a bit to the west of the city center, the defining feature of this neighborhood is the tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Elysées - an enormous stately boulevard that is Paris’s most famous street. It stretches from the towering Arc de Triomphe in the west all the way to Place de la Concorde in the east, butting up against the Tuileries Gardens and almost taking you right to the Louvre.\nAll along that stretch and on its side streets is a dizzying line-up of famous designer stores (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Givenchy, etc.), global high-street brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, 5-star hotels, and a huge selection of ritzy cocktail bars, fine chocolatiers, macaron-makers, and more.\nThis is also where you’ll find the fabled Golden Triangle (formed by connecting Avenues Montaigne and George V with the Champs-Elysées), and the area lives up to the name, offering a true bounty of all things upscale.\nI know I’m painting a picture of extreme wealth and out-of-reach opulence, but that’s kind of the theme here. This is one of Paris’ richest neighborhoods and the city’s luxury shopping hub, and being close to all of that is the appeal of staying here. For hotels, you have some of the best and most opulent in town, with a collection of absurdly beautiful palace hotels. Accordingly, luxury travelers and those interested in high-end shopping and dining will find themselves right at home.\nPeople who are not so interested in those things will probably still enjoy a walk past the designer stores or a splurge-worthy meal, but will be glad to be based elsewhere.\nThis is also a business hub, so it’s not just rich residents and tourists. During the day, you’ll find plenty of working Parisians, mainly in the surrounding offices and out and about grabbing lunch or post-work drinks. People do live here too, and  the swanky side streets actually feel fairly lived-in, just by fabulously wealthy people...\nMere mortals do also come to the neighborhood and I find myself here regular; often to enjoy a spectacular cocktail at one of the glamorous hotel bars or, a bit more mundanely, to get my computer serviced at the Apple Store.\nThere\nare\nother\nappeals to staying here beyond just luxury amenities - the neighborhood is a genuine cultural powerhouse with many of the city’s best museums: on the eastern end of the Champs-Elysées you’ve got the Grand and Petit Palais, the Palais de l’Élysée, the Hôtel de la Marine (one of my favorite museums in Paris), La Galerie Dior. Head south and you’ll stumble upon the Musée Guimet (for Asian art), the Palais de Tokyo, the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris and the Palais Galliera (Paris’s fashion museum).\nFor fans of the performing arts, there are also a number of good theaters, though shows are usually in French.\nFinally, when it comes to moving around the city, this is one of the best-served areas for public transit. You’ve got access to no fewer than 5 different subway lines, many of which run through the center of Paris and straight past the other sights and neighborhoods that you’re likely planning to visit.\nAnd one final note: should you choose to stay here, I would strongly recommend\nnot\nstaying directly on the Champs Elysées, which is always insanely busy and extremely touristy. It’s far better to find a hotel a few blocks off from there along one of the side streets.\nMy recommended hotels\nHôtel Barrière Fouquet’s\n- Even the wealthiest of Parisians jostle for a spot on the 5-star Fouquet’s hidden rooftop garden, which feels a world away from the bustle of the Champs Elysées outside. The rooms are truly ostentatious, there’s an 8,600 square foott spa, and the downstairs brasserie is an institution. $1500 \nHôtel Grand Powers\n- Set on a ritzy corner of the Golden Triangle, this chic 5-star set in a gorgeously restored 1920’s building is an absolute favorite in the neighborhood. Guests get all the luxuries of the area’s grand hotels without the attitude (or the insane prices) with a more intimate feel and perks like fireplaces, a spa and pool, balconies and views. €700\nHôtel Lancaster Paris\n- A classy 5-star hotel that feels like private home. A stream of film stars have stayed here – from Orson Wells to David Lynch—Marlene Dietrich’s piano still resides in her eponymous suite and it’s still a celebrity favorite. The swank Copper Bay cocktail lounge and courtyard restaurant are both neighborhood standouts. €550\nCitizen M Champs Elysée\n- A big, modern hotel just off the Champs Elysées with fun design objects in common areas (think a bending lamppost light). There’s a rooftop bar with an Eiffel Tower views too! $500\nMaison Albar\n- Right by the Arc de Triomphe in a classic Haussmann-style building, choose this for kitschy-chic rooms in orange, gray and\/or blue (some with mirrored ceilings), and a low-key bar restaurant, that opens out onto the street outside. $380\nHôtel Monsieur George\n- Though only a few minutes’ walk from the Champs-Elysées, this ravishing, cosmopolitan hotel feels a world away. Quiet, discreet, and loaded with charm, it boasts a Michelin-star restaurant with an outdoor garden terrace. All at a third of what you’d pay at most luxury hotels in the neighborhood. €350\nHôtel du Rond Point Champs-Elysées\n-\n“Budget” hotels are hard to come by on these tony streets, so it’s no surprise rooms at this welcoming boutique hotel on a quiet street close to the avenue are at a premium. Besides impeccable service, this dapper hotel’s sleek bar, swimming pool and steam room complement the handsome rooms, many with outdoor terraces and views. €230\nHôtel Ekta\n-\nThis sleek budget hotel’s cozy '60s-inspired rooms evoke the designer Courrèges, with a black-and-white design, bold color-block accents, and lots of mirrors, and their smart layouts make them seem bigger than they are. The pricier suites, some with an outdoor terrace, are still a bargain in this neighborhood. €190\nHôtel Regents Garden\n- A brilliant budget option about a 10-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. Rooms are small, with bold patterned fabrics. There’s a big, sheltered courtyard garden with tables – a godsend on a hot day. €160+\nOther neighborhoods to consider\nBetween the 5 neighborhoods above, I think just about everyone should be able to find somewhere that makes for a good home base in Paris. But there are lots more options of course, so if you’re looking for somewhere different or just want to get an idea for what else is out there, I’ve included 3 other areas to consider below.\nGrands Boulevards – 9th arr.\nLooking down the Passage Jouffroy. Photo:\nChabe01\n,\nCC BY-SA 4.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped\nJust to the north of the Louvre and expanding out from\/around the magnificent Opéra Garnier, you have the area known as the Grands Boulevards. An extremely atmospheric and pretty part of the city, a stroll here will take you past the\ngrands magasins\n(department stores) of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette and under some of Paris’s loveliest\ncovered passages\n- Jouffroy, Verdeau and Panoramas - each lined with high-end shops and historic restaurants and cafés of mostly high regard.\nBusy with shoppers and tourists during the day, and theatergoers and people out for night on the town in the evenings, it’s a lively and surprisingly local neighborhood considering its location in the very center of the city. In addition to the grand department stores and pretty architecture, much of what you’ll find here are theaters, concert halls, bars, and restaurants and cafés. As you head north the crowd gets a bit younger and you’ll find an even denser cluster of bars along with many nice, but casual restaurants.\nIn recent years, a number of highly sought-after boutique hotels have opened up here (Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hotel Hana, Adele et Jules, La Fantaisie, etc.), so you also have a very good selection of accommodation and the prices are quite reasonable considering the great location.\nThe main reason I haven’t included the neighborhood as one of my top recommendations is twofold: firstly, I’m mindful that the more youthful and nightlife heavy areas won’t be very attractive for lots of people. They’re fun spots to go for a night out, but you don’t necessarily need or want to have your hotel there.\nAnd secondly, not that many people actually live in the neighborhood, so although it’s always busy with workers and shoppers during the day, and the nightlife and restaurant-heavy sections are bustling at night, the more commercial\/shopping focused stretches can feel rather too quiet in the evenings. Weekends can be rather dead too, as none of the workers are around.\nNeither of those is necessarily a dealbreaker, but they’re things to know and consider as you weigh up whether this is a good base for you.\nEiffel Tower - 7th and 16th arr.\nRue Saint-Dominique looking at the Eiffel Tower. Photo:\nL-BBE\n,\nCC BY 3.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped\nElegeant Rue de Grenelle. Photo:\nMbzt\n,\nCC BY 3.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons\nMusée Maillol along Rue de Grenelle in the 7th\nLots of people think that staying near the Eiffel Tower is a good idea, but in general, I’ve found that it isn’t. The tower, located in the sprawling 7th arrondissement well to the west of basically everywhere else that you’re going to be visiting, just isn’t centrally located enough to be a very good base. You’re going to come out here at some point of course, but it’s usually a better idea to visit than to stay in the neighborhood.\nHaving said that, it’s a genuinely lovely area, so sightseeing (in)convenience aside, it’s a very nice place to hang out in. Elegant, upscale, and once the favored home of much of France’s nobility, most of what you have here today is an attractive mix of upscale residential areas, government buildings and embassies, and a healthy dose of boutiques, restaurants, and shops. As an area to live in, it’s really quite nice.\nCentral\nRue Saint-Dominique\n, which leads up to the Champ de Mars (the Eiffel Tower’s park), is packed with tempting shops, cafés, patisseries, bars, and lots more, while\nRue Cler\n, which runs off from there, is one of the city’s more scenic market streets. Those are the main spots, but there are plenty of other lively and pleasant areas, so you certainly won’t struggle to find places to eat, drink, or browse if you stay here.\nThere are also a few big sights nearby beyond the Eiffel tower: high-end shoppers should absolutely make the requisite pilgrimage to Le Bon Marché, Paris’s most elegant department store, while the palatial Invalides (where Napleon’s tomb is) and Musée Rodin are steps away to your east.\nMeanwhile, the Trocadéro is just across the river, as are the Musée de la Marine, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée de l’Homme, the Paris Aquarium, the marvelous Théâtre Nationale de Chaillot, and a collection of some of the city’s best art\/fashion museums.\nAgain, like I said above, the main disadvantage to staying here is just that you’ll be too far to walk for most of your sightseeing (around 40 minutes to a lot of the more central areas). There are also only a couple of convenient metro stops, so you’ll only have access to one or two lines and will often have about a 10-minute walk to a station.\nThe Louvre - 1st arr.\nThe gardens of the Palais Royal. Photo:\nLPLT\n,\nCC BY-SA 3.0\n, via Wikimedia Commons\nThe beating heart of Paris and an architecturally magnificent area, the Louvre\/1st arrondissement overflows with sights and cultural offerings, including the golden constellation that is the Louvre, the Bourse de Commerce-Pinault Collection, the Centre Pompidou (closed for renovations), and the newly opened Fondation Cartier. Not to mention the Tuileries Gardens and Paris’s unrivaled beauty, the Palais Royal gardens.\nWithin easy walking distance of the Opera Garnier, the Champs Elysées, the Marais, and even all the sights and charming neighborhoods across the river on the Left Bank, this is also an incredibly convenient location for sightseeing. There’s a good selection of hotels too, including some surprisingly affordable options alongside the pricier but wonderful Grand Dame hotels like Le Meurice, the Ritz, and the Cheval Blanc.\nSounds a bit too good to be true, right? Well, that’s because it is: the drawbacks are that this is an almost exclusively touristic area where no one actually lives. Other than workers during the day, you won’t find any local life here and you’re probably more likely to hear English (or any of a thousand other languages) spoken around you than French. In line with that, aside from some tourist traps and very high-end establishments, there’s  little in the way of restaurants, cafés, or nightlife.\nIf you’re willing to entirely sacrifice atmosphere in favor of sightseeing convenience, it’s a great place to stay. You just have to be ok with that tradeoff.\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a\ncustom private tour!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a\ncustom private tour!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\nMontmartre - why I don’t recommend it\nI’m aware that loads of guides (largely written by other tourists) list Montmartre as a top area to stay, so I imagine it may be surprising that I’ve listed it as somewhere\nnot\nto stay. That’s because this is one of Paris’ most polarizing neighborhoods and it’s one that people either adore or absolutely hate. I think it’s a nice place to visit, but not somewhere you should stay. Let me explain why.\nMontmartre, most famous for being home to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, sits high atop the Butte Montmartre hill in the 18th arrondissement, well to the north of central Paris. One of the highest points in the city, the views here are truly spectacular and there’s an almost village-like atmosphere with a charmingly quaint streetscape. There’s no denying how nice it is to wander amid the cobblestone streets while admiring the little houses covered in ivy, the area’s two windmills, and even an urban vineyard.\nIf that description has you thinking “well that sounds amazing”, hold on. While Montmartre is all the things I just described, it’s also extremely inconveniently located, is borderline overrun by tourists, and not actually very Parisian. I think that it’s the type of area you should visit, but definitely not stay in.\nSince Montmartre sits high atop a hill, getting between the different parts of the neighborhood requires regular uphill and downhill walks which can be genuinely fatiguing. What might be a charming hilly stroll for a single afternoon can quickly become a drag when you have to do it every morning and evening.\nAnd when it comes to sightseeing and getting to the rest of Paris, Montmartre is simply far from everywhere else. It’s well-served by the metro (there are no fewer than 7 metro stations, providing access to 4 different lines), but journey times are still much longer than they would be if staying more centrally. You will routinely have 30-minute metro rides to get wherever you’re going.\nAs one of the last neighborhoods to be annexed into Paris (it was a separate town prior to that), Montmartre is the last bastion of the city that retains its small town feel. If your vision of Paris is an Old-World village with cobblestone streets, pleasant little squares, and streets lined with bakeries, cafés, and restaurants whose tables spill out onto the sidewalk, this is as close as you’ll get to it. It’s nothing like the rest of Paris and doesn’t really represent the city more broadly, but it’s undeniably charming (even if extremely touristy).\nOf course, the area’s appeal is lost on no one, and the neighborhood is absolute catnip for day trippers, who flock here by the thousands to see the Basilica and wander the streets. Parts of Montmartre get legitimately overrun with visitors -\nPlace du Tertre\nis the most egregious - and the atmosphere is frequently unpleasantly touristic. In some parts, you will struggle to find anywhere that isn’t a tourist trap.\nIt’s not exclusively a tourist zone and if you wander away from the most popular areas you can find pockets of local life, but you’ll have to seek those places out.\nIf you choose to ignore my advice and want to stay here, know that there are two distinct parts to Montmartre, something that guidebooks often neglect to explain. There’s the\nupper area\naround the Sacré-Coeur, which is where you’ll find the hilly cobbled streets and picturesque, Old-World feel. This is what most people think of when they picture the neighborhood. It’s also the most touristy section.\nThen there’s the\nlower area\n, heading south toward Pigalle and the rest of the city, which is much more urban, younger, and livelier. This was once Paris’s notorious red light district, but nowadays it’s a cool neighborhood and a major go-out area that’s filled with trendy bars, modern restaurants (from big brasseries to chic bistros), and nice hotels. The\nMoulin\nRouge is here too, along the always lively\nBoulevard de Clichy\n.\nAnd in between those two ends of the neighborhood, you have Montmartre’s middle region around the\nRue des Abbesses,\nwhich is lined with tempting boutiques and cafés. Right nearby, the ancient market street of\nRue des Martyrs\nhas lots of interesting shopping as well. This area is both geographically and atmospherically a sort of middle ground between the north and south of the neighborhood.\nWith all this in mind, here’s my overall advice: realistically, I think the neighborhood is just too far removed from the rest of the city to be a convenient base and I find it far too touristy. It’s just not a great place to stay. Ultimately, if you want to experience village life in France, go to a village!\nMy recommended hotels\nHôtel Particulier Montmartre\n- On a hidden lane off a charming cobbled street, this elegant manor surrounded by a private park with towering trees offers five artist-designed suites. Even if you don’t sleep here, stop in for the romantic cocktail bar and restaurant, designed by the iconic Paris decorator Jacques Garcia. €720\nMaison Souquet\n- Housed in a former brothel, this drop-dead gorgeous hotel captures a romantic Belle Époque vibe that takes you back in time in the most over-the-top way. The opulent decor extends from two velvet-clad lounges to your cozy (read tiny) room and basement spa, complete with hammam and pool. €500\nHôtel des Arts\n- Family-run for three generations, this warm and welcoming hotel, housed in a pretty townhouse and decorated in a lively retro-style, offers exceptional views over the Montmartre streets and rooftops. A hammam and fitness room in the basement a great to come home to. €270\nTerrass Hotel\n- This trendy 4-star is famous for its spacious rooftop bar and restaurant, whose sweeping views of Paris make it popular with visitors and Parisians alike. The rooms - some with balconies and Eiffel Tower views - are small but well equipped. The onsite Nuxe spa is a big plus. €200\nHôtel le Relais Montmartre\n- This cozy 4-star family-run hotel feels like coming home, with tasteful rooms that privilege comfort and calm. Its location in the heart of the village, and its relatively gentle prices, assure its popularity. €200\nHotel Basss\n- Among the shops and cafés of Rue des Abbesses, this 3-star boutique hotel offers small, bright, and functional rooms in pale pastel shades—some with lovely views—and a quaint little courtyard terrace. €175\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with\nlocal guide Pascal!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with\nlocal guide Pascal!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\nFrequently asked questions\nIf you’ve gotten this far and still can’t make up your mind, below I have tried to directly answer some of the major questions people typically have.\nBest overall area?\nFor visitors on their first trip who will likely be doing a lot of the “conventional” sightseeing and who also want a classic Parisian atmosphere,\nLe Marais\nis always my top recommendation.\nIt’s extremely central - walkable to many of the city’s main sights - and exceedingly pretty and atmospheric with narrow and pedestrianized streets. While touristy, it does not feel “overrun” and you’ll find lots of good shopping, a solid dining scene, and countless nice cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers. It just feels quintessentially Parisian.\nBest neighborhood for families?\nIf you’re traveling with little kids, the\nLatin Quarter\nand\nSaint-Germain-des-Prés\nare always my top recommendations. Both neighborhoods are riverfront (kids love watching the boats), they are both central so you can get most places on foot, and you have a huge green space in each: the Jardins du Luxembourg (for Saint Germain des Pres) and the Jardin des Plantes (for the Latin Quarter).\nSaint Germain is more central and has better public transit connections but is also a fair deal pricier.\nBest area for a luxury stay?\nIf you’re looking for an upscale and luxurious Paris experience, then I think your best bet is to stay either along the\nChamps Elysées\n(around the Golden Triangle area) or in\nSaint-Germain-des-Prés\n.\nSaint-Germain-des-Prés\nis a historic literary quarter that’s wealthy but not ostentatiously so, and it’s a real neighborhood with a pleasantly local atmosphere (away from the most touristy parts), great dining, and interesting shops. Hotels are mostly boutique and quite nice.\nThe\nChamps Elysées\n, meanwhile, is much grander and more opulent, with lavish palace- hotels, swanky cocktail bars, gourmet restaurants, and true luxury shopping. It has much less of a neighborhood feel though and is a whole lot flashier.\nWhere to stay if you’re on a budget?\nIf you’re on a budget and trying to get the best bang for your buck,  I’d recommend looking in the\n11th arrondissement\n, ideally between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation. This is a hip but predominantly local part of town, and it has good dining, shopping, and nightlife in addition to affordable hotels (and lots of apartment rentals). \nAnother nice option, but which I’d mainly recommend for travelers on the younger side of 40, would be\nBelleville\n, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements.\nBest neighborhood for younger travelers or those looking for nightlife?\nIf you’re young and\/or are planning on enjoying a lot of late nights, I recommend the 11th arr., Belleville, or Grands Boulevards\/Pigalle.\nThe 11th arrondissement\n- especially near Place de la Bastille\/Rue de la Roquette and to the north along Rue Oberkampf - is a great option for anyone after a cool neighborhood that has good but pleasantly casual nightlife. It’s not exclusively a “go out area”, so has lots of restaurants and shops in addition to the bars. Very international, you’ll see a fair deal of expats and other visitors in addition to younger Parisians.\nBelleville\n, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements has a similar vibe, especially along Rue de Belleville, but less gentrified and with a more gritty atmosphere. It’s also more multicultural, but with immigrant communities as opposed to expats.\nGrands Boulevards\n&\nPigalle\n(the 9th arrondissement) are extremely lively and youthful at night and overflowing with bars. The nightlife here is more “intense” than in the two neighborhoods above and it can be quite loud at night near the busy streets.\nWhere to stay for walkability to the big sights?\nStaying around the\nLouvre\nand anywhere in the\n1st arrondissement\nmore broadly puts you literally in the very center of the city. It’s a beautiful area and there are big sights all around you often just a few minutes’ walk away. The downside is that it’s extremely expensive, overwhelmingly touristy, and has very little authentic life.\nSaint-Germain-des-Prés\nhas fewer of its own sights, but it’s smack in the middle of many other places that you’ll be visiting so is super convenient. The Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens, Napoleon’s Tomb, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Mariais and Latin Quarter are all just a short walk away. It’s also just a really nice neighborhood.\nFinally, the Golden Triangle area of the\n8th arrondissement\nis farther from most of the sights, but many of Paris’s best museums are on its doorstep, so it’s a wonderful base for culture\/museum-minded travelers.\nBest area for moving about the city (best public transit connections)?\nParis’s metro system is incredibly comprehensive, so the city doesn’t lack for well-connected neighborhoods, but if I had to pick a few areas\nthat provide truly stellar access, I’d suggest finding a hotel near the following stations:\nMontparnasse-Bienvenüe\n,\nNation\n,\nRépublique\n, and\nChâtelet\n. Each of these provides access to at least 4 different metro lines and they’re also in pleasant residential neighborhoods (except for Châtelet, which is right in the city center).\nSafest neighborhoods?\nHonestly, if you’re staying anywhere relatively central, I don’t think that you need to be worried about safety. Paris is very safe overall, and other than pickpocketing or typical tourist scams, you’re unlikely to have any issues while here. The only place I think you’re better off avoiding is the area around the\nGare du Nord train station\n, which can feel quite unpleasant, especially later at night.\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with\nlocal guide Pascal!\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with\nlocal guide Pascal!\nCity tours by car & foot\nHidden gems and local culture\nFood & market tours\nJennifer Ladone\nAn editor and translator by trade, Jennifer swapped New York City for Paris in 2004 and has been living in the French capital ever since. An expert on all things Paris, she’s a regular features writer for France Today magazine, the co-author of the book “Fodor’s Around Paris With Kids”, and the hotel and restaurant reviewer for Fodor’s Paris.\nhttps:\/\/jenniferladonne.com\/","attrs_markdown":"[0](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/cart)\n\n[Skip to Content](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#page)\n\n[Go Ask A Local](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/)\n\n[Destinations](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/destinations)\n\n[Travel Consultations](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/travel-consultations)\n\n[Reviews](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/reviews)\n\n[Blog](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog)\n\nOpen Menu Close Menu\n\n[Go Ask A Local](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/)\n\n[Destinations](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/destinations)\n\n[Travel Consultations](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/travel-consultations)\n\n[Reviews](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/reviews)\n\n[Blog](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog)\n\nOpen Menu Close Menu\n\n[Destinations](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/destinations)\n\n[Travel Consultations](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/travel-consultations)\n\n[Reviews](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/reviews)\n\n[Blog](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog)\n\n# Where to Stay in Paris - Best Neighborhoods & Hotels\n[France](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/category\/France)\n\nJan 29, 2026\n\nWritten By [Jennifer Ladone](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog?author=696eac9250c02f30d63c8030)\n\nAffiliate disclosure: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1746032678320-L70PW3BJX18AXS0HC5NS\/unsplash-image-t9Td0zfDTwI.jpg)\n\nA trip to Paris is always a big deal and when you’re visiting the most beautiful city in the world, you really do want both your hotel and neighborhood to live up to your expectations. And if you, like most people, are staying here for more than just a couple of days, where you stay can have a huge impact on your trip and overall impression of Paris.\n\nBut deciding where to stay here is no easy feat, especially given that this fabulous city has more than 2,000 hotels and [285,000](https:\/\/www.paris.fr\/pages\/location-de-meubles-touristiques-3-chiffres-pour-mieux-cerner-ce-phenomene-30572) short-term rentals. That’s a lot of choice - too much if you ask me\\!\n\nA friend once remarked that deciding where to stay in Paris is like standing in front of a pâtisserie counter with 100 different pastries; everything looks amazing but it’s impossible to choose because there’s just too much to take in.\n\nAnd that’s why I’ve written this guide! In it, I’ve recommended my 5 favorite neighborhoods for visitors and described each of them comprehensively. I’ve broken down the key aspects of each neighborhood and have tried to carefully weigh the pros and cons so that you have a clear picture and can decide which ones are likely to be a good fit for you. I’ve also included some suggested hotels in each at various price points.\n\nAs a long-time Paris resident (I’ve lived here for over 20 years now), I know the city well and admittedly have very strong opinions on which areas are best for visitors. I’m not just an opinionated local though - I’ve also authored multiple guidebooks on Paris and have spent countless hours wandering the city’s many neighborhoods and visiting hundreds of hotels within them.\n\nAt the end of the article, I’ve also addressed the “thorny issue” of Montmartre, and have given quick overviews of 3 other neighborhoods that I think are potentially good choices if you don’t find what you’re looking for in my main recommendations.\n\n[Click here to see all of our France guides & itineraries](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/Category\/France)\n***\nTable of Contents\n\n- [A few key things to know](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#A_few_key_things_to_know)\n- [Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Quick_summary_of_my_5_recommended_neighborhoods_)\n- [Map of my recommended hotels](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Map_of_my_recommended_hotels)\n- [1\\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#1._Le_Marais_\$3rd_&_4th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [2\\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#2._The_Latin_Quarter_\$5th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [3\\. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#3._Saint-Germain-des-Pr%C3%A8s_\$6th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [4\\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#4._Bastille_and_Oberkampf_\$11th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [5\\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#5._Champs_Elys%C3%A9es_\$8th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [Other neighborhoods to consider](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Other_neighborhoods_to_consider)\n- [Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Montmartre_-_why_I_don%E2%80%99t_recommend_it)\n- [Frequently asked questions](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Frequently_asked_questions)\n- [More France travel info](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#More_France_travel_info)\n\nPrivate tours of Paris with Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n[Book A Private Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nPrivate tours of Paris with Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\n[Book A Private Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n## **A few key things to know**\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/5a76a797-9824-4061-bc53-64e832bf557c\/1024px-Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png)\n\n*Paris’s arrondissements, with the Seine River dividing the city into the left and right banks. Photo:* [*Hmaglione10*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nBefore getting into my neighborhood recommendations, I think it’s useful to provide a quick look at Paris’ layout and geography as that will help you understand everything to follow in this article.\n\nHere are the main things to think about:\n\n**Arrondissements**\n\nThe first thing to know is that Paris is encircled by a ring road, within which are 20 fixed administrative districts called *arrondissements* (abbreviated to arr.). Numbered 1 through 20, they spiral out in a snail shape starting from the Louvre (1st arr.) and ending in the 20th in the north-east. In general, the higher the number, the farther the district is from the city center.\n\n**Neighborhoods**\n\nBecause the arrondissements are quite large and have distinct areas within them, they can be further broken down into individual neighborhoods, which have names as opposed to numbers. This is how we Parisians actually think of the city - by neighborhood - as the arrondissements are mostly just used for official governmental purposes. You’ve probably already heard of some of these areas: Montmartre, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain des Près, etc.\n\nUnlike the arrondissements, these neighborhoods aren't defined by firm borders, so just be aware that some of them actually straddle multiple arrondissements. I know that’s confusing, so let me explain: places like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre lie squarely within one arrondissement (the 5th and 18th, respectively) while others, like the Marais, straddle multiple. The cool neighborhood of Nation, for example, falls within 3 different arrondissements - the 11th, 12th and 20th.\n\n**River Seine - Left Bank and Right Bank**\n\nNext, you’ve got Paris’s principal geographic feature to consider: the River Seine, which cuts through the middle of the city from west to east, creating the Right Bank (*Rive Droite*) on the northern side, and the Left Bank (*Rive Gauche*) on the southern side. As you can see on the map above, the right bank covers arrondissements 1-4, 8-12, and 16-20, while the left bank covers 5, 6, 7, and 13-15.\n\nHistorically, the Left Bank was known for being intellectual and bohemian, while the Right Bank was more business-oriented and bourgeois, but those distinctions don’t hold true at all anymore. They haven’t for many, many years, so don’t listen to anyone who describes them that way.\n\nRegarding sights, many of the city’s famous landmarks and attractison are spread out along the length of the River Seine, usually within a quick walk of the water. This means that there’s no one touristic center in which you’ll find all the main sights packed close together.\n\n**Public transport**\n\nParis is a relatively small, walkable capital. On foot, you can cover its entire breadth from east to west - taking in a bucket-list worth of sights along the way - in as little as 2-3 hours.\n\nWhen you don’t want to walk, the city also has one of best metro systems in the world with 16 lines and 303 stations that comprehensively cover just about everywhere that you’ll want to go. As long as you stay near a convenient metro station, you should be able to get most everywhere quite quickly and efficiently.\n***\nExplore Paris with our favorite guide\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n[Customize Your Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nExplore Paris with our favorite guide\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\n[Customize Your Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n## **Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods**\nThe 5 neighborhoods that I’ve recommended in this guide are all convenient, centrally located, and very pleasant places to spend time. They’re all good bases for first-timers (easy access to the big sights and good transport connections) and have a great selection of hotels. Realistically, you’ll do just fine by picking any of them.\n\nHowever, they offer significantly different atmospheres and certain types of travelers are sure to prefer some over others. So, as you read through this guide, my main piece of advice would be to consider which area you think best aligns with the version of Paris you want to experience and then choose accordingly.\n\nNo matter what area you choose, make sure that your hotel is close to a metro stop. Paris’ sights are spread widely throughout the city and no area offers walkability to everything, so you will absolutely need to use public transport. If you ignore this advice, you’ll quickly find out why that dreamy hotel you booked was such good value; 20-minute slogs to the metro get old pretty fast.\n\nWith the basics covered, now let’s take a quick look at my 5 main recommended areas.\n\n**1 - Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissement)** - red on the map above\n\nThe Marais is my top recommendation, especially for first-time visitors who will be doing a lot of sightseeing. It’s extremely central, always lively and bustling, and is Paris’ only remaining medieval area with narrow streets and seriously charming architecture. The Picasso museum and the Pompidou center, along with a host of other cultural institutions and sights are right in the neighborhood, and it’s also overflowing with boutique shops, trendy cafés, good bakeries, and bars and restaurants. It’s trendy and tourist-friendly, but also popular with locals.\n\n**2 - The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)** - purple above\n\nOver on the Left Bank and just across the River Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral, this historic students’ quarter is equal parts bohemian, intellectual\/academic, and touristy. It’s full of quaint, narrow streets that wind between big monuments like the Panthéon and the Sorbonne university, and there are tons of low-key cafés and affordable restaurants. Given the large student population there’s also very fun nightlife, although it skews a bit young. You have great greenery here as well via the Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin Des Plantes.\n\n**3 - Saint-Germain des Près (6th Arrondissement)** \\- black\/grey above\n\nAs central as you can get, this wealthy and elegant Left Bank area is filled with art galleries, chic shops, and historic literary cafés. It’s very upscale, but in a classy and understated way and is the type of neighborhood you’ll dream about buying yourself a townhouse in (for only \\$10,000,000!). If you’ve got a healthy budget and are looking to stay somewhere beautiful, convenient, and well-heeled, this is a fabulous choice.\n\n**4 - Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) -** yellow above\n\nThe 11th arrondissement is a young, hip, and lively residential district where you can get a real feel for what actual local life is like in Paris. It’s not as grand as the other areas that I’ve recommended in this guide and it has very few sights, but it’s a great part of the city to just hang out in. It’s not a touristy area and it has a great dining scene, very good nightlife (mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues), and some excellent shopping streets. If you’re looking for neighborhood vibes and to get away from the tourist crowds, I heartily recommend it.\n\n**5 - Champs-Élysées (8th Arrondissement)** \\- blue above\n\nA bit to the northwest of the city center, this grand and imposing neighborhood is a very posh part of town that’s teeming with luxury shops, high-end hotels, and swanky cocktail bars. Unabashedly commercial and also a business hub, it can feel a bit impersonal, however. There’s also a host of world-class museums and cultural centers within walking distance, making it the ideal base for luxury travelers who want to mix shopping with culture.\n***\n## **Map of my recommended hotels**\nIf you’re just looking for some quick suggestions for accommodation, the map below shows all the hotels that I’ve recommended throughout this guide. It includes options across my 5 recommended neighborhoods and at all different price points.\n\nHappy (hotel) hunting\\!\n***\nSee Paris like a local, with a local\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n[See All Tours](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nSee Paris like a local, with a local\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\n[See All Tours](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **1\\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Basically everyone;anyone looking for a great combination of museums\/sights, art, shopping, and food\n\n**Pros:** Beautiful and historic area; heavily pedestrianized; tons of sights; good shopping and dining; extremely central; mix of local and touristic feel\n\n**Cons:** Extremely busy at all times; pretty touristy; accommodation is expensive\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/fac24b95-bcad-4e33-a076-cd60bf5c1326\/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Antoine%2C_Paris_19_April_2020.jpg)\n\n*Rue Saint-Antoine, one of the Marais’ main streets. Photo:* [*Jeanne Menjoulet from Paris, France*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Antoine,_Paris_19_April_2020.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/192fed43-a080-449e-88f5-f84381cd1e15\/1024px-P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg)\n\n*The half-timber houses on Rue François Miron. Photo:* [*Mbzt*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/eb855ce4-69e6-42c6-b585-8ac9d5477266\/1024px-Place_des_Vosges_a%CC%80_Paris.jpg)\n\n*The lovely and serene Place des Vosges. Photo:* [*Cette photo a été prise par André ALLIOT.*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Place_des_Vosges_%C3%A0_Paris.jpg)*, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/47c1b4de-0822-42e8-bd5d-5a7b1af33b32\/1024px-Rue_des_Rosiers%2C_Paris%2C_France_01.jpg)\n\n*People strolling about on Rue des Rosiers in the Marais. Photo:* [*ninara from Helsinki, Finland*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Rue_des_Rosiers,_Paris,_France_01.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nAlways my top recommendation for first-time visitors, the Marais is a beautiful, charming, and historic neighborhood at the very heart of Paris. It has gorgeous architecture, a wealth of pedestrianized streets, and is absolutely filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and a big array of sights and attractions. This is the one neighborhood that really does have it all.\n\nSpanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the right bank of the Seine River, in addition to being lovely, the Marais is also super central and exceptionally convenient as a base for sightseeing. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance to many of Paris’s major sights - like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pompidou Center, the Louvre, Île Saint-Louis - and other wonderful neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près and the Latin Quarter just across the river. You also have easy access to public transport via the 5 metro lines that pass through here. For pure convenience, this neighborhood simply cannot be beat.\n\nIn terms of atmosphere, the streets are always bustling with a nice mix of tourists and locals, who come here mostly to shop at the nice little boutiques. This is the only neighborhood in Paris that retains its medieval architecture and layout, so the streets are narrow and winding and many are pedestrianized, making it the perfect area for leisurely strolls. This is especially true of the less-crowded streets in the Haut Marais (the upper part of the neighborhood farther from the river).\n\nRegarding accommodation, most hotels are fairly upscale and pretty expensive, but you can still find bargains. If you like boutique and design-forward properties, you’ll have lots to choose from.\n\nFor sightseeing, the area’s graceful 17th and 18th-century mansions house a bevy of interesting museums, you have one of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks - the Place des Vosges, and there are a host of charming squares and gardens that are delightfully tucked away out of sight.\n\nAs you wander the streets, you’ll pass a never-ending array of contemporary art galleries, hip coffee shops, Instagrammable pâtisseries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. There’s not much in the way of “heavy” nightlife, but you do have some very nice wine and cocktail bars.\n\nWhen choosing where to eat, do be aware that there are a fair deal of tourist traps here so you’ll want to do some research rather than deciding at random. Because this is a popular area for dining, many of the better restaurants also require advance booking.\n\nNowhere is truly perfect though, so let me quickly admit that my glowing recommendation comes with a caveat: those who dislike crowds and bustle or anyone who prefers something more off-the-beaten-path should probably look elsewhere. This is Paris’s most popular neighborhood - for Parisians and tourists alike - and its both busy and pretty touristy. It absolutely doesn’t feel overrun by tourism, but you’ll hear as much English and Spanish as you will French.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Le Pavillon de la Reine**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fle-pavillon-de-la-reine.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0__76727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648783%3Bsrpvid%3D94d25f456fdc0587%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d99275d441d044e7bc94f997d-446356_cjevent-4b3cb9f103fc11f181e7010b0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Great for a splurge, this luxury boutique hotel set back from the elegant Place des Vosges has a private mansion feel, with an enclosed ivy-clad garden and a sumptuous décor (think velvet and bold patterns and colors and designer furnishings). The excellent in-hotel restaurant Anne has a Michelin star. €700\n\n[**SO\/Paris**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fso-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-e8a3a6a927884eacbb6840e7c-446356_cjevent-ae07031df57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\\- One of Paris’s “see and be seen” hotels, this beautiful lodging, set a few steps off the Seine river in a quiet residential area in the lower Marais, is catnip to the fashion crowd (and Emily in Paris) for its superb design and luxe rooms. Not to mention the views: these are some of the very best in Paris, right from your room’s picture windows. It’s restaurant Bonnie’s is a great place to take in the views, and the scene, especially from the top-floor cocktail bar and club. €500+\n\n[**L’Hôtel du Petit Moulin**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-petit-moulin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0__36273%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648813%3Bsrpvid%3D58bf5f559f8807d5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-ab6e90e3007e4d72befd1f2d8-446356_cjevent-b945482711ab11f181ab00260a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771956489674%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set in a 19th-century bakery with a décor by Christian Lacroix, this quirky 4-star hotel is a favorite of the fashion crowd. Lacroix’s signature riot of patterns and colors reigns here in everything from giant butterfly motifs and leopard-prints to trompe l’oeil theater scenes. The result is great, lively fun. €350\n\n[**Hôtel Jules & Jim**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fjules-et-jim.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0__34909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648866%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75f6e4110062e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9f0b9305d93f40909aee82525-446356_cjevent-6a465d6e19d811f1809001160a82b824%26chal_t%3D1772855301230%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 4-star hotel set among lively cafés and bars retains an air of calm, thanks to a double courtyard that acts as a café-cocktail bar for all seasons, with a roaring outdoor fireplace in chilly weather. Spare modern rooms in monochrome whites and greys come with high-tech touches. Book a top-floor room for fab views over the Paris’s silvery rooftops. €230\n\n[**Hôtel Boudoir des Muses**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fboudoir-des-muses.fr.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-33eaa295e84942e5ad4bfda5c-446356_cjevent-adfccd66f57e11f0817a01fe0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - It’s hard to resist the romantic fun of this cozy boutique hotel just steps from the Marais’s most fashionable coffee bars, boutiques, you name it. Along with a super-chic room, the velvet-clad cabaret and romantic swimming pool “salons” (bookable for a private hour for two) put the ooh la la in your stay—and so does the affordable price. €220\n\n[**Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcaron.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648893%3Bsrpvid%3Db72a5f7c72d60709%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0420340013ec451f9f17fbc08-446356_cjevent-dbf7ebf0331211f1839705f90a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\\- Smack in the center of the Marais, this 3-star lodging, named for the Enlightenment-era playwright, is decked out like an 18th-century boudoir, with miles of toile-de-jouy wallpaper and antiques galore. Expect extra-cozy rooms (even for Paris)—a small price for a spot in the beating heart of the city. €200\n\n[**Hôtel Emile Le Marais**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Femile-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648915%3Bsrpvid%3D72b45f87567d07a1%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b600a56cbf65404c80e361700-446356_cjevent-abba80084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the St Paul Metro station, this small 2-star hotel has a lot going for it: great location, simple but well-decorated rooms (many with balconies), comfy mattresses and a pleasant little breakfast area. It’s a top choice if you’re on a budget. €190\n***\nDiscover authentic France\\!\n\n*Explore the city better*   [*on tour with Pascal\\!*](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/uS2cOcu.jpeg)\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/TbKlqlo.png)\n\n5\\.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n[Learn more](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **2\\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Younger travelers; families; visitors who want to be central but in a local area\n\n**Pros:** Very central; plenty of affordable bars and restaurants; fun but not over-the-top nightlife; surprisingly reasonable hotel prices\n\n**Cons:** Student-heavy areas are noisy; sub-par public transit; very little shopping; a few areas are very touristy\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/703e3bed-ef6e-47b1-8a2d-754f1bcea34e\/place+de+la+sorbonne.jpg)\n\n*Place de la Sorbonne*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/66684193-6161-4531-91aa-2419091601bd\/1024px-Place_de_l%27Estrapade%2C_Paris_5e_2.jpg)\n\n*Place de l’Estrapade. Photo:* [*Celette*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Place_de_l%27Estrapade,_Paris_5e_2.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/3903e478-016b-423e-ae59-a0676f2a5fa4\/The+Place+de+la+Sorbonne.jpg)\n\n*Looking down the Place de la Sorbonne*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/6eb1ac09-950c-48ee-95ca-a2ff7a7665cb\/1024px-Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg)\n\n*The Natural History Museum in the Jardin des Plantes. Photo:* [*Benh LIEU SONG*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nAlthough it’s right in central Paris and just a quick (and lovely) stroll across the River Seine from the Marais, the Latin Quarter feels totally distinct. Whereas I regard the Marais as a great place to spend a few days, I - along with many other Parisians - consider the Latin Quarter a great place to actually live.\n\nLeafy and academic-feeling, the neighborhood has been home to the prestigious Sorbonne University for eight centuries and its presence dominates the area. As you wander around, you’ll see young students rubbing elbows with long-time residents, professors heading to and from class, and a fair few visitors making their way between the neat mix of greater and lesser-known monuments found here.\n\nI personally love the atmosphere and think it feels very cozy and homey. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to go for a leisurely afternoon stroll, especially when I’m hosting visitors who almost always feel as positively about the area as I do. It’s not nearly as cosmopolitan and exciting as the Marais, but away from the few pockets of touristy areas, it feels residential, local, and lived-in. It has a certain timeless feel to it and it’s easy to picture what life was like here even centuries ago.\n\nBeyond the cozy atmosphere, I also appreciate the diversity of its attractions: you’ve got bustling markets, stately monuments, spacious parks (like the wonderful Jardin des Plantes and Luxembourg Gardens), gorgeous old churches, some good museums, and even vestiges of Paris’s Roman past (the arena and Roman baths). It’s a very cool selection of sights and they’re varied enough that almost everyone can find something they’re interested in.\n\nFor great people watching, I always like to to head to spots like Rue Mouffetard, one of Paris’s oldest and most scenic market streets, and Place de l’Estrapade near the Panthéon - which is sure to be recognizable to “*Emily in Paris”* fans as her square of residence.\n\nThe dining scene here is pretty good too, although some of it is student-oriented (think fast casual establishments) and the wine bars and restaurants aren’t usually super trendy. You’ll find lots of good quality sit-down restaurants though, and the atmosphere at them is usually relaxed and mostly local. I find that they’re great spots to settle in for a casual evening of good food, wine, and conversation.\n\nRegarding accommodation, hotels reflect the neighborhood character and tend to be smaller and often locally-run. Lots of them are quite nice and have very French design choices, but you also have a good selection of traditional 3-star hotels.\n\nOne major drawback to staying in the Latin Quarter is that public transport here is rather poor. Although there are three metro lines, there are few stops and you’ll inevitably find that the “nearest” station is always a little further than you want it to be. Because of this, I often refer to the neighborhood as the “Bermuda Triangle of Paris”. It’s not a huge deal since you can walk most places from, but it’s something to consider.\n\nOverall, if you’re looking for a neighborhood that is close to the big tourist sights, but slightly removed from the crowds and touristy atmosphere, I think that the Latin Quarter checks all the boxes.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Pilgrim**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpilgrim-paris1.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-6dfa9a264771477dbe9240c97-446356_cjevent-ae041286f57e11f081cb02220a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a quiet street a block from the river, across from a lovely medieval abbey, this chic boutique hotel with loft-like interiors boasts an interior garden and rooftop bar, a spa with a small pool and sleek, tasteful rooms with rooftop views and plenty of calm. €370\n\n[**Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fexcelsior-latin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0__40909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648957%3Bsrpvid%3Db4255f9ce849070d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-aa91c0edd74d4f8cac8fb96a3-446356_cjevent-bc0da5b8d7ba11f08376000f0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - The swimming pool and spa are a big draw at this hip 4-star lodging. Rooms are sleekly decorated and the chic cocktail bar, with an outdoor terrace, offers drinks and snacks all day. €370\n\n[**Hôtel Monge**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonge-paris7.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0__43364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648978%3Bsrpvid%3De9825fa7256e07b0%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0fccd8dae12145ca835c2a35e-446356_cjevent-abaff8b54bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in an elegant Haussmannian building near the Arènes de Lutèce and Jardin des Plantes (from where it draws its romantic floral motif), you’ll feel like you’re visiting a private home while staying here. The tearoom, honesty bar, hammam, and massage room make it a seriously relaxing place to return after a day on the town. €330\n\n[**Hôtel Jardin de Cluny**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flejardindecluny.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0__30014%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649003%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75fb35a4c0533%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0ccc083f2c3d4926bc94c53f8-446356_cjevent-8a4a3915d78d11f0825900100a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\\- A refined nature-inspired décor, stellar location by the Sorbonne, and some adjoining rooms (great for groups) make this a perenially popular choice. €275\n\n[**Hôtel des Grands Hommes**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdupantheon.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0__35018%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649031%3Bsrpvid%3D1f8e5fc1bb95077d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-81616591ca6547eb8e082442a-446356_cjevent-3a23bc3e254f11f18333011e0a82b82d%26chal_t%3D1774115811217%26force_referer&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - You’re literally across from the Panthéon at this elegant 3-star hotel. In fact, front rooms offer views straight onto the monument. The classic décor privileges toile de jouy fabrics and antique furniture. A good central spot. €260\n\n[**Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-grandes-ecoles.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649088%3Bsrpvid%3Dbc625fcca6d208e7%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1dd836cb9a5442a8a7377c481-446356_cjevent-abb524cc4bc311f0801703f90a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set at the end of a leafy courtyard, this lovely hidden hotel feels like a day in the country, with trees brushing your window and the floral wallpaper lending it a bucolic vibe. Sip your morning coffee under the trees to the chirping of birds. A favorite budget hotel in Paris. €180\n***\nPrivate tours of Paris with Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n[Book A Private Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nPrivate tours of Paris with Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\n[Book A Private Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **3\\.** **Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Luxury travelers; families with kids; anyone looking for a chic & cosmopolitan neighborhood\n\n**Pros:** Super central location; very pretty; filled with boutiques and art galleries; excellent high-end dining; nearby gardens and green spaces\n\n**Cons:** Everything is rather high-end; some parts are very touristy; pretty quiet in the evenings\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/bcfebcbc-6220-47dc-9aed-a4b1520114e8\/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-56-14.jpg)\n\n*Rue de Médicis next to the Jardin du Luxembourg*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/26f00e7c-f50b-45b6-898f-50181e9b6779\/IMG_1744+Large.jpeg)\n\n*The corner of Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/36b48a65-391f-4159-918f-936d36190269\/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-59-00.jpg)\n\n*Cour du Commerce St. André*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/d7d9bca1-d9f0-4d8d-a2ec-6e40fc985042\/IMG_1747+Large.jpeg)\n\n*The Odéon Theatre in Saint-Germain*\n\nAlong with the Marais, this is the Paris neighborhood that I spend the most time in, for reasons both practical and indulgent. I personally love it and think it’s an excellent base for wealthier travelers who want to stay in an elegant area that feels quintessentially Parisian.\n\nUpscale but lived-in, Saint-Germain possesses a refined but slightly bohemian quality. A real local neighborhood, you’ll find a diverse but distinctly wealthy crowd here, from artists, actors, authors, expats, and “*gauche-caviar*” intellectuals (look it up!) to Parisian families who have lived in the same sprawling apartments for generations.\n\nDespite being walking distance to pretty much everywhere in central Paris, you may find that you barely leave the neighborhood. This is because you have everything at your fingertips right here - great dining and drinking, chic boutique hotels, designer and budget shopping, a few major sights, lots of interesting history, and charm galore.\n\nA historic literary quarter, it was here that artists, writers, and philosophers once gathered to argue, drink, and drink some more. Back in the day, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir made the cafés Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore their headquarters, while Hemmingway held court at the Brasserie Lipp. Those establishments are still standing and while they now overflow with tourists, they are undeniably atmospheric and grand.\n\nThings have changed quite a bit since the days of Hemingway, but this is still the publishing epicenter of Paris and it continues to feel a bit high-brow and intellectual (in a good way!), with picturesque brasseries and cafés, sprawling sidewalk terraces, and many bookstores and upscale boutiques. The atmosphere is wonderful and it’s a lovely place to while away the day and do some prime people-watching.\n\nThis is also hands down my favorite shopping neighborhood, as you have many wonderful stores with all kinds of merchandise and it doesn’t feel nearly as teeming and commercial as the Marais or as ostentatiously rich as the Champs-Élysées. Shopping here will still put a dent in your wallet, but you’ll have a great time while blowing your budget\\!\n\nIrresistible boutiques aside, Saint-Germain’s warren of beautiful narrow streets also harbor great cheese, pastry, and wine shops (especially on the Rue du Bac), eclectic art galleries, sidewalk crêperies, and tons of wine bars and cafés. It’s also Paris’s chocolate center, boasting at least 15 world-class chocolatiers. In short, you will never struggle to find somewhere good to eat or drink while here.\n\nI also think this is a great location for families (those who can afford the high hotel prices) due to the proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’ most wonderful parks. Its spacious playground, reflecting pool, marionette theater, and the city’s oldest carousel never fail to enchant kids, while its tennis and pétanque courts, garden cafés, sculptures, fountains, and the great Musée du Luxembourg keep the grownups happy too.\n\nThe public transit is pretty good too, with various metro stations and 3 lines running through the neighborhood, as well as an RER train station that offers direct access to Charles de Gaulle Airport.\n\nOverall, this is a simply fabulous neighborhood and you can’t go wrong staying here. The only reason it isn’t my top recommendation is that it’s very expensive (hotels, restaurants, and shops) and I’m aware that it will be a stretch for lots of visitors. Having said that, if you can find a hotel that looks good and is within your budget, don’t hesitate – book it\\!\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**L’Hôtel**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0__57727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649779%3Bsrpvid%3Df07e6137f1ad0492%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7cfbdc4c101945cca47a2c9c7-446356_cjevent-accb8a5b4bc311f083ae04250a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** Oscar Wilde died broke and alone on the ground floor of this small bijoux hotel made over in sumptuous damask and velvet by star decorator Jacques Garcia. Rooms dedicated to period heroines are dressed up like plush Victorian boudoirs. There’s the opulent cocktail bar and a pool in the medieval stone cellar. €620\n\n[**Hôtel d’Aubusson**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fd-aubusson.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0__70364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649905%3Bsrpvid%3D38a46175a1aa017f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c46b7565a5754d9e8e8a54055-446356_cjevent-7443563bfc5811f081ee01390a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A mix of traditional elegance and modern grandeur reigns in this 5-star lodging in the heart of Saint-Germain. The outdoor terrace is a delight in warm weather, and the spa features a pool, steam room and sauna. Jazz nights in the hotel’s famous Café Laurent is a big draw for local Parisians. €550\n\n[**Hôtel Dame des Arts**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-dame-des-arts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmap%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0__71509%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649927%3Bsrpvid%3D94d26181eda4047e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c1da9a9b4d8747a8ac4bb1761-446356_cjevent-1f96c1c5c84811f082b101790a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Popular among the fashion crowd, there’s a sleek mid-century modern vibe in the rooms, some with balconies. The restaurant doubles as a cocktail bar, and the splendid rooftop bar offers 180° views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. €420\n\n[**Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesgrandsvoyageurs.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0__40045%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649982%3Bsrpvid%3D86ed619d9faa03ae%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a50f65b08d4e47eb98d2ad71c-446356_cjevent-36c1465c0a7611f183a501950a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This sleek Art Deco-inspired 4-star offers stylish rooms with burnished wood and vintage touches, and a gleaming restaurant and cocktail bar that conjure the 1920’s heyday of transatlantic travel. €376\n\n[**Hôtel des Marronniers**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-marronniers.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0__43491%3Bsrepoch%3D1749650010%3Bsrpvid%3Dc47b61abe4a008cc%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-99c32349481140589a18d2ed2-446356_cjevent-0539a3dc113b11f18060005c0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771908087773%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 36-room hotel set on picturesque rue Jacob is a good budget option, with comfortable (if minuscule) rooms and a leafy courtyard garden that serves as an all-day tearoom and relaxation space. €200\n***\nExplore Paris with our favorite guide\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n[Customize Your Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nExplore Paris with our favorite guide\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\n[Customize Your Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **4\\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Anyone looking for local life and relaxed neighborhood vibes; visitors on longer trips\n\n**Pros:** Lively local area; excellent dining and nightlife; nice clothing shops by local French brands; relatively few tourists; affordable accommodation\n\n**Cons:** No major sights; farther from the city center; no classic Parisian charm\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/dedc1536-89d6-4b75-a738-cc8024837a2d\/1024px-F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg)\n\n*Rue de la Roquette in the 11th arr. Photo:* [*Mbzt*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/89ddcd6d-a867-4ee1-98ed-4f574a4db53f\/PHOTO-2026-01-27-13-19-04.jpg)\n\n*Rue de Lappe in the 11th*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/eb1e79e7-ba39-4526-8bf2-c8e0a3976cef\/1024px-Promenade_Richard-Lenoir_%287514436116%29.jpg)\n\n*Promenade Richard Lenoir. Photo:* [*Patrick Nouhailler*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Promenade_Richard-Lenoir_\$7514436116\$.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/159516c6-fb2f-4016-9c2d-ea8507e4011d\/1024px-Boulevard_Voltaire%2C_Paris_15_Avril_2014.jpg)\n\n*Boulevard Voltaire in the 11th. Photo:* [*Juan Enrique Gilardi from Mar del Plata, Argentina*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Boulevard_Voltaire,_Paris_15_Avril_2014.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nHeading east of the Marais and a bit farther from the absolute center of the city, you’ll quickly reach the 11th Arrondissement. This is a lively and predominantly local area that has a pleasantly youthful and urban air to it. It’s become one of the most desirable areas of Paris to live in recent years, especially for professionals in their 30s and 40s, and it’s very hip and trendy these days (in a good way).\n\nThe district is pretty sizable, so the parts of it that I’d primarily recommend you consider are the neighborhoods around Place de la Bastille and Rue Oberkampf.\n\nBoth areas are a little bit hipster-y for sure and they lack the grandeur and classic Parisian charm of more central neighborhoods, but they’re positively brimming with good restaurants, fun but relaxed bars, cool coffee shops, and interesting little boutiques that are mainly stocked with French brands. This is especially true along the lively streets of Rues de Charonne, Roquette, Keller, Oberkampf, and the Marché Aligre.\n\nAs I just said, these neighborhoods are definitely not as posh or grand as those closer to the Seine or the Louvre, and the architecture isn’t nearly as pretty, but they’re fun, local areas that offer a really nice chance to mix it up with normal Parisians and see how they actually live. You also don’t have to worry about tourist traps here, which is super refreshing when compared to the more popular areas that overflow with them.\n\nHotels tend to be much more affordable here and you can often find very nice ones for much cheaper prices than in more touristy neighborhoods. There is also a nice selection of reasonably-priced, but decent 2 and 3-star hotels, making the 11th an ideal choice for anyone on a budget in addition to visitors who just want to feel like they’re living in “real” Paris for a few days.\n\nThe tradeoff for the good prices and local atmosphere is that staying here puts you a bit farther away from many of the places you’re likely to want to visit and there aren’t any major sights. With that in mind, staying closer to Place de la Bastille is a good choice if you’re planning to do a fair deal of sightseeing as it’s right on the border with the Marais, somewhere you’ll undoubtedly spend a bit of time in. The rest of the neighborhood is also well connected by metro, so as long as you’re ok using transit, you’ll have no problem getting around.\n\nThe 11th isn’t the most conventional of choices, but I think it’s a really nice option for urban travelers in their late 20s and 30s and really just about anyone else wanting to stay in a local area that is lively and interesting, but away from the crowds. Because it’s a real residential neighborhood, it’s also ideal for people spending more than just a couple of days in Paris.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Fabric Paris Oberkampf**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-fabric.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b637ee94f7604b8481595ff3f-446356_cjevent-ad53bd88fbb511f0836400a60a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Sleek hotel with design-forward rooms and stylish common areas. Close to loads of great dining and nightlife and cool independent shops. You’re also walking distance to the Marais and some good museums. €300-350\n\n[**New Hotel République**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-gabriel-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0fc30c4b7e44fcf9ca08552c-446356_cjevent-b1ccd1c6fbb411f0836400a50a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Very boutique 4-star hotel with nicely renovated rooms that feel classy, but understated. You’re also near lots of good restaurants and bars on Rue Oberkamp (and the metro), but just removed enough for it to be quiet and peaceful. €160-300\n\n[**Hotel Marais Bastille**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmeridional.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-38bcc9b5145d4998ac7e45fa3-446356_cjevent-1f576fdafbb211f080a600980a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Nice little hotel overlooking leafy Bréguet-Sabin Square and just a block away from 3 different metro stops. The rooms are a decent size, breakfast is pretty good, and the staff is helpful. €170-230\n\n[**Grand Hotel Francais**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelfrancais.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-8561380f88de4962813e0071f-446356_cjevent-f9077d7efbb311f0836400a40a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat dated but immaculately maintained and with a certain charm, this is always one of my top recommendations for a budget-ish stay in the city center. The location on Rue Voltaire is surrounded by good local restaurants, two metro stops, and convenient things like supermarkets, pharmacies, etc. €110-200\n\n[**Oh la la Hotel**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Foh-la-la.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-12b75ed1cb334b87933422649-446356_cjevent-1f523201fbb211f083f8009e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** Pleasant 3-star hotel right next to the Bastille metro stop and a quick walk into the Marais. Place des Voges is just a couple blocks away. The rooms are on the smaller side, but new, modern, and comfy. €100-190\n\n[**Hotel Paris Voltaire**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis-voltaire.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1ef22d2729d048158f008d6f4-446356_cjevent-f90fbae4fbb311f083a000a00a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat quirky and definitely no-frills, this 2-star hotel is a solid budget option. The colorful rooms are small, but comfortable enough and the location right beside the Voltaire metro stop makes getting around easy. €100-140\n***\nSee Paris like a local, with a local\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n[See All Tours](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nSee Paris like a local, with a local\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\n[See All Tours](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **5\\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Travelers looking for glamour and panache; anyone who wants an super luxurious hotel; high-end shoppers; those prioritizing proximity to the museums\n\n**Pros:** Architecturally grand and impressive; huge number of designer shops; opulent hotels; tons of museums; great transit connections\n\n**Cons:** Very crowded; filled with tourists and office workers; very expensive; can feel impersonal\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/c1ec3147-7733-4b91-8808-9338289a9853\/1024px-Avenue_des_Champs-E%CC%81lyse%CC%81es_July_24%2C_2009_N1.jpg)\n\n*Avenue des Champs Elysées seen from he Arc de Triomhe. Photo:* [*Josh Hallett*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Avenue_des_Champs-%C3%89lys%C3%A9es_July_24,_2009_N1.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons.*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/527d0ec3-703c-46fa-a1f5-8198dd79a333\/1024px-Rue_de_Marignan%2C_Paris_11_August_2015.jpg)\n\n*Rue de Marignan near the Champs Elysées. Photo:* [*Steven Depolo from Grand Rapids, MI, USA*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Rue_de_Marignan,_Paris_11_August_2015.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1746561823343-F6V93CYANEH1766JJ9K7\/unsplash-image-OoAr4_ZsIcw.jpg)\n\nGrand architecture along the *Avenue des Champs Elysées*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/d0e10e2a-c815-45d3-bc76-835b97bcc391\/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honore%CC%81%2C_Paris_8e.jpg)\n\n*Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. Photo:* [*Celette*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honor%C3%A9,_Paris_8e.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nIf you’re looking for a neighborhood that screams Parisian grandeur, this is it. An upscale and stunningly impressive area, the 8th arrondissement is what many people imagine when they picture Paris. Think broad boulevards, elegantly sculpted 19th-century Haussman-era buildings, and gargantuan monuments. Plus shopping - a whole lot of luxury shopping.\n\nLocated on the Right Bank and a bit to the west of the city center, the defining feature of this neighborhood is the tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Elysées - an enormous stately boulevard that is Paris’s most famous street. It stretches from the towering Arc de Triomphe in the west all the way to Place de la Concorde in the east, butting up against the Tuileries Gardens and almost taking you right to the Louvre.\n\nAll along that stretch and on its side streets is a dizzying line-up of famous designer stores (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Givenchy, etc.), global high-street brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, 5-star hotels, and a huge selection of ritzy cocktail bars, fine chocolatiers, macaron-makers, and more.\n\nThis is also where you’ll find the fabled Golden Triangle (formed by connecting Avenues Montaigne and George V with the Champs-Elysées), and the area lives up to the name, offering a true bounty of all things upscale.\n\nI know I’m painting a picture of extreme wealth and out-of-reach opulence, but that’s kind of the theme here. This is one of Paris’ richest neighborhoods and the city’s luxury shopping hub, and being close to all of that is the appeal of staying here. For hotels, you have some of the best and most opulent in town, with a collection of absurdly beautiful palace hotels. Accordingly, luxury travelers and those interested in high-end shopping and dining will find themselves right at home.\n\nPeople who are not so interested in those things will probably still enjoy a walk past the designer stores or a splurge-worthy meal, but will be glad to be based elsewhere.\n\nThis is also a business hub, so it’s not just rich residents and tourists. During the day, you’ll find plenty of working Parisians, mainly in the surrounding offices and out and about grabbing lunch or post-work drinks. People do live here too, and the swanky side streets actually feel fairly lived-in, just by fabulously wealthy people...\n\nMere mortals do also come to the neighborhood and I find myself here regular; often to enjoy a spectacular cocktail at one of the glamorous hotel bars or, a bit more mundanely, to get my computer serviced at the Apple Store.\n\nThere *are* otherappeals to staying here beyond just luxury amenities - the neighborhood is a genuine cultural powerhouse with many of the city’s best museums: on the eastern end of the Champs-Elysées you’ve got the Grand and Petit Palais, the Palais de l’Élysée, the Hôtel de la Marine (one of my favorite museums in Paris), La Galerie Dior. Head south and you’ll stumble upon the Musée Guimet (for Asian art), the Palais de Tokyo, the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris and the Palais Galliera (Paris’s fashion museum).\n\nFor fans of the performing arts, there are also a number of good theaters, though shows are usually in French.\n\nFinally, when it comes to moving around the city, this is one of the best-served areas for public transit. You’ve got access to no fewer than 5 different subway lines, many of which run through the center of Paris and straight past the other sights and neighborhoods that you’re likely planning to visit.\n\nAnd one final note: should you choose to stay here, I would strongly recommend *not* staying directly on the Champs Elysées, which is always insanely busy and extremely touristy. It’s far better to find a hotel a few blocks off from there along one of the side streets.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Ffouquet-s-barriere-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0__130909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649379%3Bsrpvid%3D54b4606f72ec05e5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b3e96ea49a7b4e3688336127c-446356_cjevent-ac3c43224bc311f081ec03db0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Even the wealthiest of Parisians jostle for a spot on the 5-star Fouquet’s hidden rooftop garden, which feels a world away from the bustle of the Champs Elysées outside. The rooms are truly ostentatious, there’s an 8,600 square foott spa, and the downstairs brasserie is an institution. \\$1500\n\n[**Hôtel Grand Powers**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fgrand-powers.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-727467c7194c4cdd97c4d4530-446356_cjevent-b9202a3cf57e11f0824302170a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a ritzy corner of the Golden Triangle, this chic 5-star set in a gorgeously restored 1920’s building is an absolute favorite in the neighborhood. Guests get all the luxuries of the area’s grand hotels without the attitude (or the insane prices) with a more intimate feel and perks like fireplaces, a spa and pool, balconies and views. €700\n\n[**Hôtel Lancaster Paris**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flancaster-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0__77701%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649528%3Bsrpvid%3Deeac60b8e0490091%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9eaf67c6ef5b4e13989364936-446356_cjevent-092bceb5e63311f080f0073b0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A classy 5-star hotel that feels like private home. A stream of film stars have stayed here – from Orson Wells to David Lynch—Marlene Dietrich’s piano still resides in her eponymous suite and it’s still a celebrity favorite. The swank Copper Bay cocktail lounge and courtyard restaurant are both neighborhood standouts. €550\n\n[**Citizen M Champs Elysée**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcitizenm-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827_33091%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649557%3Bsrpvid%3D7c9c60c9a7150332%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-2f0e56be85f846a387acb4ca5-446356_cjevent-ac42ea084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A big, modern hotel just off the Champs Elysées with fun design objects in common areas (think a bending lamppost light). There’s a rooftop bar with an Eiffel Tower views too! \\$500\n\n[**Maison Albar**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-mac-mahon.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D333958%3Bdest_type%3Dhotel%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0__54545%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649604%3Bsrpvid%3D158560e0acef04a9%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0d4318f1ffc46b58d20467e2-446356_cjevent-ac3b2c584bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the Arc de Triomphe in a classic Haussmann-style building, choose this for kitschy-chic rooms in orange, gray and\/or blue (some with mirrored ceilings), and a low-key bar restaurant, that opens out onto the street outside. \\$380\n\n[**Hôtel Monsieur George**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonsieur-george-amp-spa-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-08609bc0d1e34c0485dcf5189-446356_cjevent-ae04921bf57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Though only a few minutes’ walk from the Champs-Elysées, this ravishing, cosmopolitan hotel feels a world away. Quiet, discreet, and loaded with charm, it boasts a Michelin-star restaurant with an outdoor garden terrace. All at a third of what you’d pay at most luxury hotels in the neighborhood. €350\n\n[**Hôtel du Rond Point Champs-Elysées**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-rond-point-des-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a8c0fd0f44434c8895ef26d3d-446356_cjevent-ae0bbb6bf57e11f0824502160a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** “Budget” hotels are hard to come by on these tony streets, so it’s no surprise rooms at this welcoming boutique hotel on a quiet street close to the avenue are at a premium. Besides impeccable service, this dapper hotel’s sleek bar, swimming pool and steam room complement the handsome rooms, many with outdoor terraces and views. €230\n\n[**Hôtel Ekta**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fekta.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7c9a30f4e0a44bdf8ce7969a2-446356_cjevent-ae0e07e4f57e11f083fd01ff0a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** This sleek budget hotel’s cozy '60s-inspired rooms evoke the designer Courrèges, with a black-and-white design, bold color-block accents, and lots of mirrors, and their smart layouts make them seem bigger than they are. The pricier suites, some with an outdoor terrace, are still a bargain in this neighborhood. €190\n\n[**Hôtel Regents Garden**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpremierregentsgarden.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0__40818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649652%3Bsrpvid%3Dbefc60f63f7d053a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9c2b4ffb1eb34ed5a08b3a5c1-446356_cjevent-0f9943cbe8c811f0826009c00a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A brilliant budget option about a 10-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. Rooms are small, with bold patterned fabrics. There’s a big, sheltered courtyard garden with tables – a godsend on a hot day. €160+\n***\nDiscover authentic France\\!\n\n*Explore the city better*   [*on tour with Pascal\\!*](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/uS2cOcu.jpeg)\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/TbKlqlo.png)\n\n5\\.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n[Learn more](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **Other neighborhoods to consider**\nBetween the 5 neighborhoods above, I think just about everyone should be able to find somewhere that makes for a good home base in Paris. But there are lots more options of course, so if you’re looking for somewhere different or just want to get an idea for what else is out there, I’ve included 3 other areas to consider below.\n\n### **Grands Boulevards – 9th arr.**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/b7c6a3eb-6dbc-48e9-977d-1cc7ac7fcfb4\/1024px-Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg)\n\n*Looking down the Passage Jouffroy. Photo:* [*Chabe01*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/af3dafcb-b402-442a-b546-e202d5517977\/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Montmartre%2C_26_May_2012.jpg)\n\n*Rue du Faubourg-Montmartre. Photo:* [*Guillaume Speurt from Vilnius, Lithuania*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Montmartre,_26_May_2012.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\nJust to the north of the Louvre and expanding out from\/around the magnificent Opéra Garnier, you have the area known as the Grands Boulevards. An extremely atmospheric and pretty part of the city, a stroll here will take you past the ***grands magasins***(department stores) of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette and under some of Paris’s loveliest **covered passages** - Jouffroy, Verdeau and Panoramas - each lined with high-end shops and historic restaurants and cafés of mostly high regard.\n\nBusy with shoppers and tourists during the day, and theatergoers and people out for night on the town in the evenings, it’s a lively and surprisingly local neighborhood considering its location in the very center of the city. In addition to the grand department stores and pretty architecture, much of what you’ll find here are theaters, concert halls, bars, and restaurants and cafés. As you head north the crowd gets a bit younger and you’ll find an even denser cluster of bars along with many nice, but casual restaurants.\n\nIn recent years, a number of highly sought-after boutique hotels have opened up here (Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hotel Hana, Adele et Jules, La Fantaisie, etc.), so you also have a very good selection of accommodation and the prices are quite reasonable considering the great location.\n\nThe main reason I haven’t included the neighborhood as one of my top recommendations is twofold: firstly, I’m mindful that the more youthful and nightlife heavy areas won’t be very attractive for lots of people. They’re fun spots to go for a night out, but you don’t necessarily need or want to have your hotel there.\n\nAnd secondly, not that many people actually live in the neighborhood, so although it’s always busy with workers and shoppers during the day, and the nightlife and restaurant-heavy sections are bustling at night, the more commercial\/shopping focused stretches can feel rather too quiet in the evenings. Weekends can be rather dead too, as none of the workers are around.\n\nNeither of those is necessarily a dealbreaker, but they’re things to know and consider as you weigh up whether this is a good base for you.\n\n### **Eiffel Tower - 7th and 16th arr.**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1e25983c-e302-4529-a8cb-6efc12469de1\/1024px-Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg)\n\n*Rue Saint-Dominique looking at the Eiffel Tower. Photo:* [*L-BBE*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1dc356bc-8188-4f21-80ec-2a9ed6cbcdc1\/1024px-P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.jpeg)\n\n*Elegeant Rue de Grenelle. Photo:* [*Mbzt*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.JPG)*,* [*CC BY 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/34877717-fba0-473f-8970-d1e43bc3b1be\/IMG_1752+Large.jpg)\n\n*Musée Maillol along Rue de Grenelle in the 7th*\n\nLots of people think that staying near the Eiffel Tower is a good idea, but in general, I’ve found that it isn’t. The tower, located in the sprawling 7th arrondissement well to the west of basically everywhere else that you’re going to be visiting, just isn’t centrally located enough to be a very good base. You’re going to come out here at some point of course, but it’s usually a better idea to visit than to stay in the neighborhood.\n\nHaving said that, it’s a genuinely lovely area, so sightseeing (in)convenience aside, it’s a very nice place to hang out in. Elegant, upscale, and once the favored home of much of France’s nobility, most of what you have here today is an attractive mix of upscale residential areas, government buildings and embassies, and a healthy dose of boutiques, restaurants, and shops. As an area to live in, it’s really quite nice.\n\nCentral **Rue Saint-Dominique**, which leads up to the Champ de Mars (the Eiffel Tower’s park), is packed with tempting shops, cafés, patisseries, bars, and lots more, while **Rue Cler**, which runs off from there, is one of the city’s more scenic market streets. Those are the main spots, but there are plenty of other lively and pleasant areas, so you certainly won’t struggle to find places to eat, drink, or browse if you stay here.\n\nThere are also a few big sights nearby beyond the Eiffel tower: high-end shoppers should absolutely make the requisite pilgrimage to Le Bon Marché, Paris’s most elegant department store, while the palatial Invalides (where Napleon’s tomb is) and Musée Rodin are steps away to your east.\n\nMeanwhile, the Trocadéro is just across the river, as are the Musée de la Marine, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée de l’Homme, the Paris Aquarium, the marvelous Théâtre Nationale de Chaillot, and a collection of some of the city’s best art\/fashion museums.\n\nAgain, like I said above, the main disadvantage to staying here is just that you’ll be too far to walk for most of your sightseeing (around 40 minutes to a lot of the more central areas). There are also only a couple of convenient metro stops, so you’ll only have access to one or two lines and will often have about a 10-minute walk to a station.\n\n### **The Louvre - 1st arr.**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/225f0e75-8404-42bd-80e9-c4d2d0a859ac\/1024px-Paris_75001_Rue_de_Rivoli_no_47_towards_west_2141209.jpg)\n\n*Looking down Rue de Rivoli. Photo:* [*Jorge Láscar from Melbourne, Australia*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Paris_75001_Rue_de_Rivoli_no_47_towards_west_2141209.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/94f75a52-88dd-41fd-bb52-e1a8e32da24f\/1024px-Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.jpeg)\n\n*The gardens of the Palais Royal. Photo:* [*LPLT*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.JPG)*,* [*CC BY-SA 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nThe beating heart of Paris and an architecturally magnificent area, the Louvre\/1st arrondissement overflows with sights and cultural offerings, including the golden constellation that is the Louvre, the Bourse de Commerce-Pinault Collection, the Centre Pompidou (closed for renovations), and the newly opened Fondation Cartier. Not to mention the Tuileries Gardens and Paris’s unrivaled beauty, the Palais Royal gardens.\n\nWithin easy walking distance of the Opera Garnier, the Champs Elysées, the Marais, and even all the sights and charming neighborhoods across the river on the Left Bank, this is also an incredibly convenient location for sightseeing. There’s a good selection of hotels too, including some surprisingly affordable options alongside the pricier but wonderful Grand Dame hotels like Le Meurice, the Ritz, and the Cheval Blanc.\n\nSounds a bit too good to be true, right? Well, that’s because it is: the drawbacks are that this is an almost exclusively touristic area where no one actually lives. Other than workers during the day, you won’t find any local life here and you’re probably more likely to hear English (or any of a thousand other languages) spoken around you than French. In line with that, aside from some tourist traps and very high-end establishments, there’s little in the way of restaurants, cafés, or nightlife.\n\nIf you’re willing to entirely sacrifice atmosphere in favor of sightseeing convenience, it’s a great place to stay. You just have to be ok with that tradeoff.\n***\nPrivate tours of Paris with Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n[Book A Private Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nPrivate tours of Paris with Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\n[Book A Private Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n## **Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it**\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/fb7508d0-e6ee-4c7d-8f78-fc1e407bc369\/1024px-Chez_Euge%CC%80ne%2C_Place_du_Tertre%2C_Paris_15_March_2010.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/98ed81f3-ce3f-4251-812f-eb97bcd4b15a\/1024px-Sacre_Coeur_1.jpeg)\n\n*The Sacre Coeur basilica. Photo:* [*Superchilum*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Sacre_Coeur_1.JPG)*,* [*CC BY-SA 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/4d493f46-f137-4f78-b4f0-e267a2b1bd6f\/1024px-Rue_des_Abbesses%2C_Paris_24_August_2013.jpg)\n\n*Shop-filled Rue des Abesses. Photo:* [*flightlog*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Rue_des_Abbesses,_Paris_24_August_2013.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/8ce4485a-62a0-4a5a-8c46-69b6ed7add0e\/1024px-Montmartre_hills_to_taverns%2C_Paris_20_May_2014.jpg)\n\n*A typically pretty but hilly street in Montmartre. Photo:* [*David McSpadden from Daly City, United States*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Montmartre_hills_to_taverns,_Paris_20_May_2014.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nI’m aware that loads of guides (largely written by other tourists) list Montmartre as a top area to stay, so I imagine it may be surprising that I’ve listed it as somewhere ***not***to stay. That’s because this is one of Paris’ most polarizing neighborhoods and it’s one that people either adore or absolutely hate. I think it’s a nice place to visit, but not somewhere you should stay. Let me explain why.\n\nMontmartre, most famous for being home to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, sits high atop the Butte Montmartre hill in the 18th arrondissement, well to the north of central Paris. One of the highest points in the city, the views here are truly spectacular and there’s an almost village-like atmosphere with a charmingly quaint streetscape. There’s no denying how nice it is to wander amid the cobblestone streets while admiring the little houses covered in ivy, the area’s two windmills, and even an urban vineyard.\n\nIf that description has you thinking “well that sounds amazing”, hold on. While Montmartre is all the things I just described, it’s also extremely inconveniently located, is borderline overrun by tourists, and not actually very Parisian. I think that it’s the type of area you should visit, but definitely not stay in.\n\nSince Montmartre sits high atop a hill, getting between the different parts of the neighborhood requires regular uphill and downhill walks which can be genuinely fatiguing. What might be a charming hilly stroll for a single afternoon can quickly become a drag when you have to do it every morning and evening.\n\nAnd when it comes to sightseeing and getting to the rest of Paris, Montmartre is simply far from everywhere else. It’s well-served by the metro (there are no fewer than 7 metro stations, providing access to 4 different lines), but journey times are still much longer than they would be if staying more centrally. You will routinely have 30-minute metro rides to get wherever you’re going.\n\nAs one of the last neighborhoods to be annexed into Paris (it was a separate town prior to that), Montmartre is the last bastion of the city that retains its small town feel. If your vision of Paris is an Old-World village with cobblestone streets, pleasant little squares, and streets lined with bakeries, cafés, and restaurants whose tables spill out onto the sidewalk, this is as close as you’ll get to it. It’s nothing like the rest of Paris and doesn’t really represent the city more broadly, but it’s undeniably charming (even if extremely touristy).\n\nOf course, the area’s appeal is lost on no one, and the neighborhood is absolute catnip for day trippers, who flock here by the thousands to see the Basilica and wander the streets. Parts of Montmartre get legitimately overrun with visitors - **Place du Tertre** is the most egregious - and the atmosphere is frequently unpleasantly touristic. In some parts, you will struggle to find anywhere that isn’t a tourist trap.\n\nIt’s not exclusively a tourist zone and if you wander away from the most popular areas you can find pockets of local life, but you’ll have to seek those places out.\n\nIf you choose to ignore my advice and want to stay here, know that there are two distinct parts to Montmartre, something that guidebooks often neglect to explain. There’s the **upper area** around the Sacré-Coeur, which is where you’ll find the hilly cobbled streets and picturesque, Old-World feel. This is what most people think of when they picture the neighborhood. It’s also the most touristy section.\n\nThen there’s the **lower area**, heading south toward Pigalle and the rest of the city, which is much more urban, younger, and livelier. This was once Paris’s notorious red light district, but nowadays it’s a cool neighborhood and a major go-out area that’s filled with trendy bars, modern restaurants (from big brasseries to chic bistros), and nice hotels. The **Moulin** Rouge is here too, along the always lively **Boulevard de Clichy**.\n\nAnd in between those two ends of the neighborhood, you have Montmartre’s middle region around the **Rue des Abbesses,** which is lined with tempting boutiques and cafés. Right nearby, the ancient market street of **Rue des Martyrs** has lots of interesting shopping as well. This area is both geographically and atmospherically a sort of middle ground between the north and south of the neighborhood.\n\nWith all this in mind, here’s my overall advice: realistically, I think the neighborhood is just too far removed from the rest of the city to be a convenient base and I find it far too touristy. It’s just not a great place to stay. Ultimately, if you want to experience village life in France, go to a village\\!\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Particulier Montmartre**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparticulier-montmartre-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649147%3Bsrpvid%3D00a55ffca2740998%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-f9ae08bcd4ab4e1da5cee57c3-446356_cjevent-ac3fc9644bc311f08176044e0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - On a hidden lane off a charming cobbled street, this elegant manor surrounded by a private park with towering trees offers five artist-designed suites. Even if you don’t sleep here, stop in for the romantic cocktail bar and restaurant, designed by the iconic Paris decorator Jacques Garcia. €720\n\n[**Maison Souquet**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmaison-souquet.htm%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-983a483c33f4445e88331b70c-446356_cjevent-d2f3bad6f57e11f083ef020a0a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in a former brothel, this drop-dead gorgeous hotel captures a romantic Belle Époque vibe that takes you back in time in the most over-the-top way. The opulent decor extends from two velvet-clad lounges to your cozy (read tiny) room and basement spa, complete with hammam and pool. €500\n\n[**Hôtel des Arts**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesarts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0__21432%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649321%3Bsrpvid%3Dd503604b12c60b62%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-19f7bb3461aa41fda49610ab1-446356_cjevent-ac3f992b4bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Family-run for three generations, this warm and welcoming hotel, housed in a pretty townhouse and decorated in a lively retro-style, offers exceptional views over the Montmartre streets and rooftops. A hammam and fitness room in the basement a great to come home to. €270\n\n[**Terrass Hotel**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fterrass-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649256%3Bsrpvid%3D8f4d60327c80034f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c13626b38e8c410bbc7d0c6b9-446356_cjevent-ac3f56594bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This trendy 4-star is famous for its spacious rooftop bar and restaurant, whose sweeping views of Paris make it popular with visitors and Parisians alike. The rooms - some with balconies and Eiffel Tower views - are small but well equipped. The onsite Nuxe spa is a big plus. €200\n\n[**Hôtel le Relais Montmartre**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelrelaismontmartre.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0__18720%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649281%3Bsrpvid%3D38a4603e0f4a082a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0c24cc6f387c4d39a22abaf8f-446356_cjevent-fa12a81f0a7011f183a301aa0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This cozy 4-star family-run hotel feels like coming home, with tasteful rooms that privilege comfort and calm. Its location in the heart of the village, and its relatively gentle prices, assure its popularity. €200\n\n[**Hotel Basss**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcomfort-paris-18eme-sacre-coeur.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0__20818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649344%3Bsrpvid%3D005a605df0f10673%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-5d3fe2345c814a2a8ae72d927-446356_cjevent-ac428aaa4bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Among the shops and cafés of Rue des Abbesses, this 3-star boutique hotel offers small, bright, and functional rooms in pale pastel shades—some with lovely views—and a quaint little courtyard terrace. €175\n***\nExplore Paris with our favorite guide\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n[Customize Your Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nExplore Paris with our favorite guide\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\n[Customize Your Tour](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **Frequently asked questions**\nIf you’ve gotten this far and still can’t make up your mind, below I have tried to directly answer some of the major questions people typically have.\n\n**Best overall area?**\n\nFor visitors on their first trip who will likely be doing a lot of the “conventional” sightseeing and who also want a classic Parisian atmosphere, **Le Marais** is always my top recommendation.It’s extremely central - walkable to many of the city’s main sights - and exceedingly pretty and atmospheric with narrow and pedestrianized streets. While touristy, it does not feel “overrun” and you’ll find lots of good shopping, a solid dining scene, and countless nice cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers. It just feels quintessentially Parisian.\n\n**Best neighborhood for families?**\n\nIf you’re traveling with little kids, the **Latin Quarter** and **Saint-Germain-des-Prés** are always my top recommendations. Both neighborhoods are riverfront (kids love watching the boats), they are both central so you can get most places on foot, and you have a huge green space in each: the Jardins du Luxembourg (for Saint Germain des Pres) and the Jardin des Plantes (for the Latin Quarter).Saint Germain is more central and has better public transit connections but is also a fair deal pricier.\n\n**Best area for a luxury stay?**\n\nIf you’re looking for an upscale and luxurious Paris experience, then I think your best bet is to stay either along the **Champs Elysées** (around the Golden Triangle area) or in **Saint-Germain-des-Prés**.\n\n**Saint-Germain-des-Prés** is a historic literary quarter that’s wealthy but not ostentatiously so, and it’s a real neighborhood with a pleasantly local atmosphere (away from the most touristy parts), great dining, and interesting shops. Hotels are mostly boutique and quite nice.\n\nThe **Champs Elysées**, meanwhile, is much grander and more opulent, with lavish palace- hotels, swanky cocktail bars, gourmet restaurants, and true luxury shopping. It has much less of a neighborhood feel though and is a whole lot flashier.\n\n**Where to stay if you’re on a budget?**\n\nIf you’re on a budget and trying to get the best bang for your buck, I’d recommend looking in the **11th arrondissement**, ideally between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation. This is a hip but predominantly local part of town, and it has good dining, shopping, and nightlife in addition to affordable hotels (and lots of apartment rentals).\n\nAnother nice option, but which I’d mainly recommend for travelers on the younger side of 40, would be **Belleville**, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements.\n\n**Best neighborhood for younger travelers or those looking for nightlife?**\n\nIf you’re young and\/or are planning on enjoying a lot of late nights, I recommend the 11th arr., Belleville, or Grands Boulevards\/Pigalle.\n\n**The 11th arrondissement** - especially near Place de la Bastille\/Rue de la Roquette and to the north along Rue Oberkampf - is a great option for anyone after a cool neighborhood that has good but pleasantly casual nightlife. It’s not exclusively a “go out area”, so has lots of restaurants and shops in addition to the bars. Very international, you’ll see a fair deal of expats and other visitors in addition to younger Parisians.\n\n**Belleville**, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements has a similar vibe, especially along Rue de Belleville, but less gentrified and with a more gritty atmosphere. It’s also more multicultural, but with immigrant communities as opposed to expats.\n\n**Grands Boulevards** & **Pigalle** (the 9th arrondissement) are extremely lively and youthful at night and overflowing with bars. The nightlife here is more “intense” than in the two neighborhoods above and it can be quite loud at night near the busy streets.\n\n**Where to stay for walkability to the big sights?**\n\nStaying around the **Louvre** and anywhere in the **1st arrondissement** more broadly puts you literally in the very center of the city. It’s a beautiful area and there are big sights all around you often just a few minutes’ walk away. The downside is that it’s extremely expensive, overwhelmingly touristy, and has very little authentic life.\n\n**Saint-Germain-des-Prés** has fewer of its own sights, but it’s smack in the middle of many other places that you’ll be visiting so is super convenient. The Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens, Napoleon’s Tomb, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Mariais and Latin Quarter are all just a short walk away. It’s also just a really nice neighborhood.\n\nFinally, the Golden Triangle area of the **8th arrondissement** is farther from most of the sights, but many of Paris’s best museums are on its doorstep, so it’s a wonderful base for culture\/museum-minded travelers.\n\n**Best area for moving about the city (best public transit connections)?**\n\nParis’s metro system is incredibly comprehensive, so the city doesn’t lack for well-connected neighborhoods, but if I had to pick a few areasthat provide truly stellar access, I’d suggest finding a hotel near the following stations: **Montparnasse-Bienvenüe**, **Nation**, **République**, and **Châtelet**. Each of these provides access to at least 4 different metro lines and they’re also in pleasant residential neighborhoods (except for Châtelet, which is right in the city center).\n\n**Safest neighborhoods?**\n\nHonestly, if you’re staying anywhere relatively central, I don’t think that you need to be worried about safety. Paris is very safe overall, and other than pickpocketing or typical tourist scams, you’re unlikely to have any issues while here. The only place I think you’re better off avoiding is the area around the **Gare du Nord train station**, which can feel quite unpleasant, especially later at night.\n***\nSee Paris like a local, with a local\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n[See All Tours](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\nSee Paris like a local, with a local\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\n[See All Tours](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal)\n\n## **More France travel info**\nFor more advice on planning a trip to the French Riviera, check out some of our other guides and itineraries\\!\n\n- [**Where to stay in Lyon**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-lyon)\n- [**Where to stay in Nice**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-nice)\n- [**French Riviera travel guide**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/french-riviera-travel-guide)\n- [**7-Day French Riviera itinerary**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/one-week-french-riviera-itinerary)\n- [**Guide to Menton**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/menton-france-travel-guide)\n- [**Guide to Cannes**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/cannes-france-travel-guide)\n- [**Guide to Monaco**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/travel-guide-to-monaco)\n- [**Guide to St. Tropez**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/saint-tropez-travel-guide)\n- [**Guide to Antibes**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/antibes-france-travel-guide)\n***\nPlan Your Itinerary with Pascal\n\n![Pascal](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/7ad8626b-7663-4a07-8c01-0a8d63899bb5\/France+travel+expert+and+trip+planner+Pascal+in+the+french+riviera.jpeg?format=300px)\n\nPascal\n\n★★★★★\n\n5\/5 from 10+ reviews\n\n- Chat with a local expert\n- 1 hour planning session\n- Get pro tips & hidden gems\n- Personalized to you\n\n[Learn More](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/france-travel?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=consultation-button)\n\nFrance Travel Guides\n\n[![French Riviera Travel Guide](https:\/\/images.unsplash.com\/photo-1555341498-528ba188ef0e?q=80&w=300&auto=format&fit=crop&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D) French Riviera Travel Guide See Guide](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/french-riviera-travel-guide?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=tour-link)\n\n[![Guide to St. Tropez](https:\/\/images.unsplash.com\/photo-1574873902578-dfd54e973cb0?q=80&w=300&auto=format&fit=crop&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D) Guide to St. Tropez See Guide](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/saint-tropez-travel-guide?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=tour-link)\n\n[![Guide to Cannes](https:\/\/images.unsplash.com\/photo-1660153175339-96db278d5057?q=80&w=300&auto=format&fit=crop&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D) Guide to Cannes See Guide](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/cannes-france-travel-guide?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=tour-link)\n\n[See All Guides](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/france-travel?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=explore-button)\n\n[![]() Jennifer Ladone](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog?author=696eac9250c02f30d63c8030)\n\nAn editor and translator by trade, Jennifer swapped New York City for Paris in 2004 and has been living in the French capital ever since. An expert on all things Paris, she’s a regular features writer for France Today magazine, the co-author of the book “Fodor’s Around Paris With Kids”, and the hotel and restaurant reviewer for Fodor’s Paris.\n\n<https:\/\/jenniferladonne.com\/>\n\n[Previous Previous A Local’s Favorite Things to do in Santiago, Chile](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/things-to-do-in-santiago-chile)\n\n[Next Next Rio de Janeiro Itinerary - 5 Days in the Marvelous City](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/rio-de-janeiro-itinerary)\n\n[About](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/about) [Contact](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/contact)  [Follow](https:\/\/instagram.com\/goaskalocal)\n\nHave questions? Contact us! We’re based in Storrs, CT.  \n\\+1 860 321 0777  \n[ops@goaskalocal.com](mailto:ops@goaskalocal.com?)\n\n[Terms and Conditions](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/terms-and-conditions)\n\n[Cancellation Policy](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/cancellation-policy)\n\n[Privacy Policy](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/privacy-policy)\n\n**Europe:** [Albania](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/albania-travel), [Belgium](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/belgium-travel), [Bosnia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/bosnia), [Croatia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/croatia-travel), [England](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/england-travel), [France](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/france-travel), [Georgia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/georgia-travel), [Germany](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/germany-travel), [Greece](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/greece-travel), [Hungary](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/hungary-travel), [Iceland](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/iceland-travel), [Ireland](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/ireland-travel), [Italy](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/italy), [Malta](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/malta-travel), [Montenegro](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/montenegro-travel), [Portugal](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/portugal-travel), [Serbia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/serbia-travel), [Slovakia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/slovakia-travel), [Slovenia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/slovenia-travel), [Spain](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/spain-travel), [Turkey](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/turkey-travel)\n\n**South America:** [Argentina](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/argentina-travel), [Bolivia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/bolivia-travel), [Brazil](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/brazil-travel), [Chile](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/chile-travel),[Colombia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/colombia-travel), [Peru](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/peru-travel)\n\n**North & Central America:** [Belize](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/belize-travel), [Costa Rica](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/costa-rica-travel), [Dominican Republic](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/dominican-republic-travel),   \n[Guatemal](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/guatemala-travel)a, [Mexico](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/mexico-travel)\n\n**Asia:** [Dubai](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/dubai), [India](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/india),[Mongolia](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/mongolia-travel), [Nepal](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/nepal-travel), [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/sri-lanka), [Turkey](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/turkey-travel)\n\n**Africa:** [Egypt](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/egypt-travel),[Kenya](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/kenya-travel), [Morocco](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/morocco-travel)\n\n**Oceania:** [New Zealand](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/new-zealand-travel)\n\n**Are you a local expert?**[**Reach out\\!**](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/become-a-local-expert)","attrs_readable_markdown":"Where to Stay in Paris - Best Neighborhoods & Hotels\n\nAffiliate disclosure: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1746032678320-L70PW3BJX18AXS0HC5NS\/unsplash-image-t9Td0zfDTwI.jpg)\n\nA trip to Paris is always a big deal and when you’re visiting the most beautiful city in the world, you really do want both your hotel and neighborhood to live up to your expectations. And if you, like most people, are staying here for more than just a couple of days, where you stay can have a huge impact on your trip and overall impression of Paris.\n\nBut deciding where to stay here is no easy feat, especially given that this fabulous city has more than 2,000 hotels and [285,000](https:\/\/www.paris.fr\/pages\/location-de-meubles-touristiques-3-chiffres-pour-mieux-cerner-ce-phenomene-30572) short-term rentals. That’s a lot of choice - too much if you ask me\\!\n\nA friend once remarked that deciding where to stay in Paris is like standing in front of a pâtisserie counter with 100 different pastries; everything looks amazing but it’s impossible to choose because there’s just too much to take in.\n\nAnd that’s why I’ve written this guide! In it, I’ve recommended my 5 favorite neighborhoods for visitors and described each of them comprehensively. I’ve broken down the key aspects of each neighborhood and have tried to carefully weigh the pros and cons so that you have a clear picture and can decide which ones are likely to be a good fit for you. I’ve also included some suggested hotels in each at various price points.\n\nAs a long-time Paris resident (I’ve lived here for over 20 years now), I know the city well and admittedly have very strong opinions on which areas are best for visitors. I’m not just an opinionated local though - I’ve also authored multiple guidebooks on Paris and have spent countless hours wandering the city’s many neighborhoods and visiting hundreds of hotels within them.\n\nAt the end of the article, I’ve also addressed the “thorny issue” of Montmartre, and have given quick overviews of 3 other neighborhoods that I think are potentially good choices if you don’t find what you’re looking for in my main recommendations.\n\nTable of Contents\n\n- [A few key things to know](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#A_few_key_things_to_know)\n- [Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Quick_summary_of_my_5_recommended_neighborhoods_)\n- [Map of my recommended hotels](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Map_of_my_recommended_hotels)\n- [1\\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#1._Le_Marais_\$3rd_&_4th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [2\\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#2._The_Latin_Quarter_\$5th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [3\\. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#3._Saint-Germain-des-Pr%C3%A8s_\$6th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [4\\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#4._Bastille_and_Oberkampf_\$11th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [5\\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#5._Champs_Elys%C3%A9es_\$8th_Arrondissement\$)\n- [Other neighborhoods to consider](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Other_neighborhoods_to_consider)\n- [Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Montmartre_-_why_I_don%E2%80%99t_recommend_it)\n- [Frequently asked questions](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#Frequently_asked_questions)\n- [More France travel info](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog\/where-to-stay-in-paris#More_France_travel_info)\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\n**A few key things to know**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/5a76a797-9824-4061-bc53-64e832bf557c\/1024px-Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png)\n\n*Paris’s arrondissements, with the Seine River dividing the city into the left and right banks. Photo:* [*Hmaglione10*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nBefore getting into my neighborhood recommendations, I think it’s useful to provide a quick look at Paris’ layout and geography as that will help you understand everything to follow in this article.\n\nHere are the main things to think about:\n\n**Arrondissements**\n\nThe first thing to know is that Paris is encircled by a ring road, within which are 20 fixed administrative districts called *arrondissements* (abbreviated to arr.). Numbered 1 through 20, they spiral out in a snail shape starting from the Louvre (1st arr.) and ending in the 20th in the north-east. In general, the higher the number, the farther the district is from the city center.\n\n**Neighborhoods**\n\nBecause the arrondissements are quite large and have distinct areas within them, they can be further broken down into individual neighborhoods, which have names as opposed to numbers. This is how we Parisians actually think of the city - by neighborhood - as the arrondissements are mostly just used for official governmental purposes. You’ve probably already heard of some of these areas: Montmartre, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain des Près, etc.\n\nUnlike the arrondissements, these neighborhoods aren't defined by firm borders, so just be aware that some of them actually straddle multiple arrondissements. I know that’s confusing, so let me explain: places like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre lie squarely within one arrondissement (the 5th and 18th, respectively) while others, like the Marais, straddle multiple. The cool neighborhood of Nation, for example, falls within 3 different arrondissements - the 11th, 12th and 20th.\n\n**River Seine - Left Bank and Right Bank**\n\nNext, you’ve got Paris’s principal geographic feature to consider: the River Seine, which cuts through the middle of the city from west to east, creating the Right Bank (*Rive Droite*) on the northern side, and the Left Bank (*Rive Gauche*) on the southern side. As you can see on the map above, the right bank covers arrondissements 1-4, 8-12, and 16-20, while the left bank covers 5, 6, 7, and 13-15.\n\nHistorically, the Left Bank was known for being intellectual and bohemian, while the Right Bank was more business-oriented and bourgeois, but those distinctions don’t hold true at all anymore. They haven’t for many, many years, so don’t listen to anyone who describes them that way.\n\nRegarding sights, many of the city’s famous landmarks and attractison are spread out along the length of the River Seine, usually within a quick walk of the water. This means that there’s no one touristic center in which you’ll find all the main sights packed close together.\n\n**Public transport**\n\nParis is a relatively small, walkable capital. On foot, you can cover its entire breadth from east to west - taking in a bucket-list worth of sights along the way - in as little as 2-3 hours.\n\nWhen you don’t want to walk, the city also has one of best metro systems in the world with 16 lines and 303 stations that comprehensively cover just about everywhere that you’ll want to go. As long as you stay near a convenient metro station, you should be able to get most everywhere quite quickly and efficiently.\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\n**Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods**\n\nThe 5 neighborhoods that I’ve recommended in this guide are all convenient, centrally located, and very pleasant places to spend time. They’re all good bases for first-timers (easy access to the big sights and good transport connections) and have a great selection of hotels. Realistically, you’ll do just fine by picking any of them.\n\nHowever, they offer significantly different atmospheres and certain types of travelers are sure to prefer some over others. So, as you read through this guide, my main piece of advice would be to consider which area you think best aligns with the version of Paris you want to experience and then choose accordingly.\n\nNo matter what area you choose, make sure that your hotel is close to a metro stop. Paris’ sights are spread widely throughout the city and no area offers walkability to everything, so you will absolutely need to use public transport. If you ignore this advice, you’ll quickly find out why that dreamy hotel you booked was such good value; 20-minute slogs to the metro get old pretty fast.\n\nWith the basics covered, now let’s take a quick look at my 5 main recommended areas.\n\n**1 - Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissement)** - red on the map above\n\nThe Marais is my top recommendation, especially for first-time visitors who will be doing a lot of sightseeing. It’s extremely central, always lively and bustling, and is Paris’ only remaining medieval area with narrow streets and seriously charming architecture. The Picasso museum and the Pompidou center, along with a host of other cultural institutions and sights are right in the neighborhood, and it’s also overflowing with boutique shops, trendy cafés, good bakeries, and bars and restaurants. It’s trendy and tourist-friendly, but also popular with locals.\n\n**2 - The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)** - purple above\n\nOver on the Left Bank and just across the River Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral, this historic students’ quarter is equal parts bohemian, intellectual\/academic, and touristy. It’s full of quaint, narrow streets that wind between big monuments like the Panthéon and the Sorbonne university, and there are tons of low-key cafés and affordable restaurants. Given the large student population there’s also very fun nightlife, although it skews a bit young. You have great greenery here as well via the Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin Des Plantes.\n\n**3 - Saint-Germain des Près (6th Arrondissement)** \\- black\/grey above\n\nAs central as you can get, this wealthy and elegant Left Bank area is filled with art galleries, chic shops, and historic literary cafés. It’s very upscale, but in a classy and understated way and is the type of neighborhood you’ll dream about buying yourself a townhouse in (for only \\$10,000,000!). If you’ve got a healthy budget and are looking to stay somewhere beautiful, convenient, and well-heeled, this is a fabulous choice.\n\n**4 - Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) -** yellow above\n\nThe 11th arrondissement is a young, hip, and lively residential district where you can get a real feel for what actual local life is like in Paris. It’s not as grand as the other areas that I’ve recommended in this guide and it has very few sights, but it’s a great part of the city to just hang out in. It’s not a touristy area and it has a great dining scene, very good nightlife (mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues), and some excellent shopping streets. If you’re looking for neighborhood vibes and to get away from the tourist crowds, I heartily recommend it.\n\n**5 - Champs-Élysées (8th Arrondissement)** \\- blue above\n\nA bit to the northwest of the city center, this grand and imposing neighborhood is a very posh part of town that’s teeming with luxury shops, high-end hotels, and swanky cocktail bars. Unabashedly commercial and also a business hub, it can feel a bit impersonal, however. There’s also a host of world-class museums and cultural centers within walking distance, making it the ideal base for luxury travelers who want to mix shopping with culture.\n\n## **Map of my recommended hotels**\nIf you’re just looking for some quick suggestions for accommodation, the map below shows all the hotels that I’ve recommended throughout this guide. It includes options across my 5 recommended neighborhoods and at all different price points.\n\nHappy (hotel) hunting\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\n## **1\\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Basically everyone;anyone looking for a great combination of museums\/sights, art, shopping, and food\n\n**Pros:** Beautiful and historic area; heavily pedestrianized; tons of sights; good shopping and dining; extremely central; mix of local and touristic feel\n\n**Cons:** Extremely busy at all times; pretty touristy; accommodation is expensive\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/fac24b95-bcad-4e33-a076-cd60bf5c1326\/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Antoine%2C_Paris_19_April_2020.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/192fed43-a080-449e-88f5-f84381cd1e15\/1024px-P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg)\n\n*The half-timber houses on Rue François Miron. Photo:* [*Mbzt*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/eb855ce4-69e6-42c6-b585-8ac9d5477266\/1024px-Place_des_Vosges_a%CC%80_Paris.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/47c1b4de-0822-42e8-bd5d-5a7b1af33b32\/1024px-Rue_des_Rosiers%2C_Paris%2C_France_01.jpg)\n\nAlways my top recommendation for first-time visitors, the Marais is a beautiful, charming, and historic neighborhood at the very heart of Paris. It has gorgeous architecture, a wealth of pedestrianized streets, and is absolutely filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and a big array of sights and attractions. This is the one neighborhood that really does have it all.\n\nSpanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the right bank of the Seine River, in addition to being lovely, the Marais is also super central and exceptionally convenient as a base for sightseeing. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance to many of Paris’s major sights - like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pompidou Center, the Louvre, Île Saint-Louis - and other wonderful neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près and the Latin Quarter just across the river. You also have easy access to public transport via the 5 metro lines that pass through here. For pure convenience, this neighborhood simply cannot be beat.\n\nIn terms of atmosphere, the streets are always bustling with a nice mix of tourists and locals, who come here mostly to shop at the nice little boutiques. This is the only neighborhood in Paris that retains its medieval architecture and layout, so the streets are narrow and winding and many are pedestrianized, making it the perfect area for leisurely strolls. This is especially true of the less-crowded streets in the Haut Marais (the upper part of the neighborhood farther from the river).\n\nRegarding accommodation, most hotels are fairly upscale and pretty expensive, but you can still find bargains. If you like boutique and design-forward properties, you’ll have lots to choose from.\n\nFor sightseeing, the area’s graceful 17th and 18th-century mansions house a bevy of interesting museums, you have one of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks - the Place des Vosges, and there are a host of charming squares and gardens that are delightfully tucked away out of sight.\n\nAs you wander the streets, you’ll pass a never-ending array of contemporary art galleries, hip coffee shops, Instagrammable pâtisseries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. There’s not much in the way of “heavy” nightlife, but you do have some very nice wine and cocktail bars.\n\nWhen choosing where to eat, do be aware that there are a fair deal of tourist traps here so you’ll want to do some research rather than deciding at random. Because this is a popular area for dining, many of the better restaurants also require advance booking.\n\nNowhere is truly perfect though, so let me quickly admit that my glowing recommendation comes with a caveat: those who dislike crowds and bustle or anyone who prefers something more off-the-beaten-path should probably look elsewhere. This is Paris’s most popular neighborhood - for Parisians and tourists alike - and its both busy and pretty touristy. It absolutely doesn’t feel overrun by tourism, but you’ll hear as much English and Spanish as you will French.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Le Pavillon de la Reine**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fle-pavillon-de-la-reine.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0__76727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648783%3Bsrpvid%3D94d25f456fdc0587%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d99275d441d044e7bc94f997d-446356_cjevent-4b3cb9f103fc11f181e7010b0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Great for a splurge, this luxury boutique hotel set back from the elegant Place des Vosges has a private mansion feel, with an enclosed ivy-clad garden and a sumptuous décor (think velvet and bold patterns and colors and designer furnishings). The excellent in-hotel restaurant Anne has a Michelin star. €700\n\n[**SO\/Paris**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fso-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-e8a3a6a927884eacbb6840e7c-446356_cjevent-ae07031df57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\\- One of Paris’s “see and be seen” hotels, this beautiful lodging, set a few steps off the Seine river in a quiet residential area in the lower Marais, is catnip to the fashion crowd (and Emily in Paris) for its superb design and luxe rooms. Not to mention the views: these are some of the very best in Paris, right from your room’s picture windows. It’s restaurant Bonnie’s is a great place to take in the views, and the scene, especially from the top-floor cocktail bar and club. €500+\n\n[**L’Hôtel du Petit Moulin**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-petit-moulin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0__36273%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648813%3Bsrpvid%3D58bf5f559f8807d5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-ab6e90e3007e4d72befd1f2d8-446356_cjevent-b945482711ab11f181ab00260a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771956489674%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set in a 19th-century bakery with a décor by Christian Lacroix, this quirky 4-star hotel is a favorite of the fashion crowd. Lacroix’s signature riot of patterns and colors reigns here in everything from giant butterfly motifs and leopard-prints to trompe l’oeil theater scenes. The result is great, lively fun. €350\n\n[**Hôtel Jules & Jim**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fjules-et-jim.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0__34909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648866%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75f6e4110062e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9f0b9305d93f40909aee82525-446356_cjevent-6a465d6e19d811f1809001160a82b824%26chal_t%3D1772855301230%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 4-star hotel set among lively cafés and bars retains an air of calm, thanks to a double courtyard that acts as a café-cocktail bar for all seasons, with a roaring outdoor fireplace in chilly weather. Spare modern rooms in monochrome whites and greys come with high-tech touches. Book a top-floor room for fab views over the Paris’s silvery rooftops. €230\n\n[**Hôtel Boudoir des Muses**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fboudoir-des-muses.fr.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-33eaa295e84942e5ad4bfda5c-446356_cjevent-adfccd66f57e11f0817a01fe0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - It’s hard to resist the romantic fun of this cozy boutique hotel just steps from the Marais’s most fashionable coffee bars, boutiques, you name it. Along with a super-chic room, the velvet-clad cabaret and romantic swimming pool “salons” (bookable for a private hour for two) put the ooh la la in your stay—and so does the affordable price. €220\n\n[**Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcaron.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648893%3Bsrpvid%3Db72a5f7c72d60709%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0420340013ec451f9f17fbc08-446356_cjevent-dbf7ebf0331211f1839705f90a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\\- Smack in the center of the Marais, this 3-star lodging, named for the Enlightenment-era playwright, is decked out like an 18th-century boudoir, with miles of toile-de-jouy wallpaper and antiques galore. Expect extra-cozy rooms (even for Paris)—a small price for a spot in the beating heart of the city. €200\n\n[**Hôtel Emile Le Marais**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Femile-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648915%3Bsrpvid%3D72b45f87567d07a1%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b600a56cbf65404c80e361700-446356_cjevent-abba80084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the St Paul Metro station, this small 2-star hotel has a lot going for it: great location, simple but well-decorated rooms (many with balconies), comfy mattresses and a pleasant little breakfast area. It’s a top choice if you’re on a budget. €190\n\n## **2\\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Younger travelers; families; visitors who want to be central but in a local area\n\n**Pros:** Very central; plenty of affordable bars and restaurants; fun but not over-the-top nightlife; surprisingly reasonable hotel prices\n\n**Cons:** Student-heavy areas are noisy; sub-par public transit; very little shopping; a few areas are very touristy\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/703e3bed-ef6e-47b1-8a2d-754f1bcea34e\/place+de+la+sorbonne.jpg)\n\n*Place de la Sorbonne*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/3903e478-016b-423e-ae59-a0676f2a5fa4\/The+Place+de+la+Sorbonne.jpg)\n\n*Looking down the Place de la Sorbonne*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/6eb1ac09-950c-48ee-95ca-a2ff7a7665cb\/1024px-Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg)\n\n*The Natural History Museum in the Jardin des Plantes. Photo:* [*Benh LIEU SONG*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nAlthough it’s right in central Paris and just a quick (and lovely) stroll across the River Seine from the Marais, the Latin Quarter feels totally distinct. Whereas I regard the Marais as a great place to spend a few days, I - along with many other Parisians - consider the Latin Quarter a great place to actually live.\n\nLeafy and academic-feeling, the neighborhood has been home to the prestigious Sorbonne University for eight centuries and its presence dominates the area. As you wander around, you’ll see young students rubbing elbows with long-time residents, professors heading to and from class, and a fair few visitors making their way between the neat mix of greater and lesser-known monuments found here.\n\nI personally love the atmosphere and think it feels very cozy and homey. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to go for a leisurely afternoon stroll, especially when I’m hosting visitors who almost always feel as positively about the area as I do. It’s not nearly as cosmopolitan and exciting as the Marais, but away from the few pockets of touristy areas, it feels residential, local, and lived-in. It has a certain timeless feel to it and it’s easy to picture what life was like here even centuries ago.\n\nBeyond the cozy atmosphere, I also appreciate the diversity of its attractions: you’ve got bustling markets, stately monuments, spacious parks (like the wonderful Jardin des Plantes and Luxembourg Gardens), gorgeous old churches, some good museums, and even vestiges of Paris’s Roman past (the arena and Roman baths). It’s a very cool selection of sights and they’re varied enough that almost everyone can find something they’re interested in.\n\nFor great people watching, I always like to to head to spots like Rue Mouffetard, one of Paris’s oldest and most scenic market streets, and Place de l’Estrapade near the Panthéon - which is sure to be recognizable to “*Emily in Paris”* fans as her square of residence.\n\nThe dining scene here is pretty good too, although some of it is student-oriented (think fast casual establishments) and the wine bars and restaurants aren’t usually super trendy. You’ll find lots of good quality sit-down restaurants though, and the atmosphere at them is usually relaxed and mostly local. I find that they’re great spots to settle in for a casual evening of good food, wine, and conversation.\n\nRegarding accommodation, hotels reflect the neighborhood character and tend to be smaller and often locally-run. Lots of them are quite nice and have very French design choices, but you also have a good selection of traditional 3-star hotels.\n\nOne major drawback to staying in the Latin Quarter is that public transport here is rather poor. Although there are three metro lines, there are few stops and you’ll inevitably find that the “nearest” station is always a little further than you want it to be. Because of this, I often refer to the neighborhood as the “Bermuda Triangle of Paris”. It’s not a huge deal since you can walk most places from, but it’s something to consider.\n\nOverall, if you’re looking for a neighborhood that is close to the big tourist sights, but slightly removed from the crowds and touristy atmosphere, I think that the Latin Quarter checks all the boxes.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Pilgrim**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpilgrim-paris1.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-6dfa9a264771477dbe9240c97-446356_cjevent-ae041286f57e11f081cb02220a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a quiet street a block from the river, across from a lovely medieval abbey, this chic boutique hotel with loft-like interiors boasts an interior garden and rooftop bar, a spa with a small pool and sleek, tasteful rooms with rooftop views and plenty of calm. €370\n\n[**Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fexcelsior-latin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0__40909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648957%3Bsrpvid%3Db4255f9ce849070d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-aa91c0edd74d4f8cac8fb96a3-446356_cjevent-bc0da5b8d7ba11f08376000f0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - The swimming pool and spa are a big draw at this hip 4-star lodging. Rooms are sleekly decorated and the chic cocktail bar, with an outdoor terrace, offers drinks and snacks all day. €370\n\n[**Hôtel Monge**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonge-paris7.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0__43364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648978%3Bsrpvid%3De9825fa7256e07b0%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0fccd8dae12145ca835c2a35e-446356_cjevent-abaff8b54bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in an elegant Haussmannian building near the Arènes de Lutèce and Jardin des Plantes (from where it draws its romantic floral motif), you’ll feel like you’re visiting a private home while staying here. The tearoom, honesty bar, hammam, and massage room make it a seriously relaxing place to return after a day on the town. €330\n\n[**Hôtel Jardin de Cluny**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flejardindecluny.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0__30014%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649003%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75fb35a4c0533%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0ccc083f2c3d4926bc94c53f8-446356_cjevent-8a4a3915d78d11f0825900100a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\\- A refined nature-inspired décor, stellar location by the Sorbonne, and some adjoining rooms (great for groups) make this a perenially popular choice. €275\n\n[**Hôtel des Grands Hommes**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdupantheon.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0__35018%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649031%3Bsrpvid%3D1f8e5fc1bb95077d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-81616591ca6547eb8e082442a-446356_cjevent-3a23bc3e254f11f18333011e0a82b82d%26chal_t%3D1774115811217%26force_referer&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - You’re literally across from the Panthéon at this elegant 3-star hotel. In fact, front rooms offer views straight onto the monument. The classic décor privileges toile de jouy fabrics and antique furniture. A good central spot. €260\n\n[**Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-grandes-ecoles.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649088%3Bsrpvid%3Dbc625fcca6d208e7%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1dd836cb9a5442a8a7377c481-446356_cjevent-abb524cc4bc311f0801703f90a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set at the end of a leafy courtyard, this lovely hidden hotel feels like a day in the country, with trees brushing your window and the floral wallpaper lending it a bucolic vibe. Sip your morning coffee under the trees to the chirping of birds. A favorite budget hotel in Paris. €180\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\n## **3\\.** **Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Luxury travelers; families with kids; anyone looking for a chic & cosmopolitan neighborhood\n\n**Pros:** Super central location; very pretty; filled with boutiques and art galleries; excellent high-end dining; nearby gardens and green spaces\n\n**Cons:** Everything is rather high-end; some parts are very touristy; pretty quiet in the evenings\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/bcfebcbc-6220-47dc-9aed-a4b1520114e8\/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-56-14.jpg)\n\n*Rue de Médicis next to the Jardin du Luxembourg*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/26f00e7c-f50b-45b6-898f-50181e9b6779\/IMG_1744+Large.jpeg)\n\n*The corner of Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/36b48a65-391f-4159-918f-936d36190269\/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-59-00.jpg)\n\n*Cour du Commerce St. André*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/d7d9bca1-d9f0-4d8d-a2ec-6e40fc985042\/IMG_1747+Large.jpeg)\n\n*The Odéon Theatre in Saint-Germain*\n\nAlong with the Marais, this is the Paris neighborhood that I spend the most time in, for reasons both practical and indulgent. I personally love it and think it’s an excellent base for wealthier travelers who want to stay in an elegant area that feels quintessentially Parisian.\n\nUpscale but lived-in, Saint-Germain possesses a refined but slightly bohemian quality. A real local neighborhood, you’ll find a diverse but distinctly wealthy crowd here, from artists, actors, authors, expats, and “*gauche-caviar*” intellectuals (look it up!) to Parisian families who have lived in the same sprawling apartments for generations.\n\nDespite being walking distance to pretty much everywhere in central Paris, you may find that you barely leave the neighborhood. This is because you have everything at your fingertips right here - great dining and drinking, chic boutique hotels, designer and budget shopping, a few major sights, lots of interesting history, and charm galore.\n\nA historic literary quarter, it was here that artists, writers, and philosophers once gathered to argue, drink, and drink some more. Back in the day, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir made the cafés Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore their headquarters, while Hemmingway held court at the Brasserie Lipp. Those establishments are still standing and while they now overflow with tourists, they are undeniably atmospheric and grand.\n\nThings have changed quite a bit since the days of Hemingway, but this is still the publishing epicenter of Paris and it continues to feel a bit high-brow and intellectual (in a good way!), with picturesque brasseries and cafés, sprawling sidewalk terraces, and many bookstores and upscale boutiques. The atmosphere is wonderful and it’s a lovely place to while away the day and do some prime people-watching.\n\nThis is also hands down my favorite shopping neighborhood, as you have many wonderful stores with all kinds of merchandise and it doesn’t feel nearly as teeming and commercial as the Marais or as ostentatiously rich as the Champs-Élysées. Shopping here will still put a dent in your wallet, but you’ll have a great time while blowing your budget\\!\n\nIrresistible boutiques aside, Saint-Germain’s warren of beautiful narrow streets also harbor great cheese, pastry, and wine shops (especially on the Rue du Bac), eclectic art galleries, sidewalk crêperies, and tons of wine bars and cafés. It’s also Paris’s chocolate center, boasting at least 15 world-class chocolatiers. In short, you will never struggle to find somewhere good to eat or drink while here.\n\nI also think this is a great location for families (those who can afford the high hotel prices) due to the proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’ most wonderful parks. Its spacious playground, reflecting pool, marionette theater, and the city’s oldest carousel never fail to enchant kids, while its tennis and pétanque courts, garden cafés, sculptures, fountains, and the great Musée du Luxembourg keep the grownups happy too.\n\nThe public transit is pretty good too, with various metro stations and 3 lines running through the neighborhood, as well as an RER train station that offers direct access to Charles de Gaulle Airport.\n\nOverall, this is a simply fabulous neighborhood and you can’t go wrong staying here. The only reason it isn’t my top recommendation is that it’s very expensive (hotels, restaurants, and shops) and I’m aware that it will be a stretch for lots of visitors. Having said that, if you can find a hotel that looks good and is within your budget, don’t hesitate – book it\\!\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**L’Hôtel**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0__57727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649779%3Bsrpvid%3Df07e6137f1ad0492%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7cfbdc4c101945cca47a2c9c7-446356_cjevent-accb8a5b4bc311f083ae04250a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** Oscar Wilde died broke and alone on the ground floor of this small bijoux hotel made over in sumptuous damask and velvet by star decorator Jacques Garcia. Rooms dedicated to period heroines are dressed up like plush Victorian boudoirs. There’s the opulent cocktail bar and a pool in the medieval stone cellar. €620\n\n[**Hôtel d’Aubusson**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fd-aubusson.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0__70364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649905%3Bsrpvid%3D38a46175a1aa017f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c46b7565a5754d9e8e8a54055-446356_cjevent-7443563bfc5811f081ee01390a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A mix of traditional elegance and modern grandeur reigns in this 5-star lodging in the heart of Saint-Germain. The outdoor terrace is a delight in warm weather, and the spa features a pool, steam room and sauna. Jazz nights in the hotel’s famous Café Laurent is a big draw for local Parisians. €550\n\n[**Hôtel Dame des Arts**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-dame-des-arts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmap%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0__71509%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649927%3Bsrpvid%3D94d26181eda4047e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c1da9a9b4d8747a8ac4bb1761-446356_cjevent-1f96c1c5c84811f082b101790a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Popular among the fashion crowd, there’s a sleek mid-century modern vibe in the rooms, some with balconies. The restaurant doubles as a cocktail bar, and the splendid rooftop bar offers 180° views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. €420\n\n[**Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesgrandsvoyageurs.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0__40045%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649982%3Bsrpvid%3D86ed619d9faa03ae%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a50f65b08d4e47eb98d2ad71c-446356_cjevent-36c1465c0a7611f183a501950a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This sleek Art Deco-inspired 4-star offers stylish rooms with burnished wood and vintage touches, and a gleaming restaurant and cocktail bar that conjure the 1920’s heyday of transatlantic travel. €376\n\n[**Hôtel des Marronniers**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-marronniers.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0__43491%3Bsrepoch%3D1749650010%3Bsrpvid%3Dc47b61abe4a008cc%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-99c32349481140589a18d2ed2-446356_cjevent-0539a3dc113b11f18060005c0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771908087773%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 36-room hotel set on picturesque rue Jacob is a good budget option, with comfortable (if minuscule) rooms and a leafy courtyard garden that serves as an all-day tearoom and relaxation space. €200\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\n## **4\\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Anyone looking for local life and relaxed neighborhood vibes; visitors on longer trips\n\n**Pros:** Lively local area; excellent dining and nightlife; nice clothing shops by local French brands; relatively few tourists; affordable accommodation\n\n**Cons:** No major sights; farther from the city center; no classic Parisian charm\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/dedc1536-89d6-4b75-a738-cc8024837a2d\/1024px-F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg)\n\n*Rue de la Roquette in the 11th arr. Photo:* [*Mbzt*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/89ddcd6d-a867-4ee1-98ed-4f574a4db53f\/PHOTO-2026-01-27-13-19-04.jpg)\n\n*Rue de Lappe in the 11th*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/eb1e79e7-ba39-4526-8bf2-c8e0a3976cef\/1024px-Promenade_Richard-Lenoir_%287514436116%29.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/159516c6-fb2f-4016-9c2d-ea8507e4011d\/1024px-Boulevard_Voltaire%2C_Paris_15_Avril_2014.jpg)\n\nHeading east of the Marais and a bit farther from the absolute center of the city, you’ll quickly reach the 11th Arrondissement. This is a lively and predominantly local area that has a pleasantly youthful and urban air to it. It’s become one of the most desirable areas of Paris to live in recent years, especially for professionals in their 30s and 40s, and it’s very hip and trendy these days (in a good way).\n\nThe district is pretty sizable, so the parts of it that I’d primarily recommend you consider are the neighborhoods around Place de la Bastille and Rue Oberkampf.\n\nBoth areas are a little bit hipster-y for sure and they lack the grandeur and classic Parisian charm of more central neighborhoods, but they’re positively brimming with good restaurants, fun but relaxed bars, cool coffee shops, and interesting little boutiques that are mainly stocked with French brands. This is especially true along the lively streets of Rues de Charonne, Roquette, Keller, Oberkampf, and the Marché Aligre.\n\nAs I just said, these neighborhoods are definitely not as posh or grand as those closer to the Seine or the Louvre, and the architecture isn’t nearly as pretty, but they’re fun, local areas that offer a really nice chance to mix it up with normal Parisians and see how they actually live. You also don’t have to worry about tourist traps here, which is super refreshing when compared to the more popular areas that overflow with them.\n\nHotels tend to be much more affordable here and you can often find very nice ones for much cheaper prices than in more touristy neighborhoods. There is also a nice selection of reasonably-priced, but decent 2 and 3-star hotels, making the 11th an ideal choice for anyone on a budget in addition to visitors who just want to feel like they’re living in “real” Paris for a few days.\n\nThe tradeoff for the good prices and local atmosphere is that staying here puts you a bit farther away from many of the places you’re likely to want to visit and there aren’t any major sights. With that in mind, staying closer to Place de la Bastille is a good choice if you’re planning to do a fair deal of sightseeing as it’s right on the border with the Marais, somewhere you’ll undoubtedly spend a bit of time in. The rest of the neighborhood is also well connected by metro, so as long as you’re ok using transit, you’ll have no problem getting around.\n\nThe 11th isn’t the most conventional of choices, but I think it’s a really nice option for urban travelers in their late 20s and 30s and really just about anyone else wanting to stay in a local area that is lively and interesting, but away from the crowds. Because it’s a real residential neighborhood, it’s also ideal for people spending more than just a couple of days in Paris.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Fabric Paris Oberkampf**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-fabric.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b637ee94f7604b8481595ff3f-446356_cjevent-ad53bd88fbb511f0836400a60a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Sleek hotel with design-forward rooms and stylish common areas. Close to loads of great dining and nightlife and cool independent shops. You’re also walking distance to the Marais and some good museums. €300-350\n\n[**New Hotel République**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-gabriel-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0fc30c4b7e44fcf9ca08552c-446356_cjevent-b1ccd1c6fbb411f0836400a50a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Very boutique 4-star hotel with nicely renovated rooms that feel classy, but understated. You’re also near lots of good restaurants and bars on Rue Oberkamp (and the metro), but just removed enough for it to be quiet and peaceful. €160-300\n\n[**Hotel Marais Bastille**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmeridional.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-38bcc9b5145d4998ac7e45fa3-446356_cjevent-1f576fdafbb211f080a600980a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Nice little hotel overlooking leafy Bréguet-Sabin Square and just a block away from 3 different metro stops. The rooms are a decent size, breakfast is pretty good, and the staff is helpful. €170-230\n\n[**Grand Hotel Francais**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelfrancais.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-8561380f88de4962813e0071f-446356_cjevent-f9077d7efbb311f0836400a40a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat dated but immaculately maintained and with a certain charm, this is always one of my top recommendations for a budget-ish stay in the city center. The location on Rue Voltaire is surrounded by good local restaurants, two metro stops, and convenient things like supermarkets, pharmacies, etc. €110-200\n\n[**Oh la la Hotel**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Foh-la-la.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-12b75ed1cb334b87933422649-446356_cjevent-1f523201fbb211f083f8009e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** Pleasant 3-star hotel right next to the Bastille metro stop and a quick walk into the Marais. Place des Voges is just a couple blocks away. The rooms are on the smaller side, but new, modern, and comfy. €100-190\n\n[**Hotel Paris Voltaire**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis-voltaire.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1ef22d2729d048158f008d6f4-446356_cjevent-f90fbae4fbb311f083a000a00a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat quirky and definitely no-frills, this 2-star hotel is a solid budget option. The colorful rooms are small, but comfortable enough and the location right beside the Voltaire metro stop makes getting around easy. €100-140\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\n## **5\\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)**\n**Best for:** Travelers looking for glamour and panache; anyone who wants an super luxurious hotel; high-end shoppers; those prioritizing proximity to the museums\n\n**Pros:** Architecturally grand and impressive; huge number of designer shops; opulent hotels; tons of museums; great transit connections\n\n**Cons:** Very crowded; filled with tourists and office workers; very expensive; can feel impersonal\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/c1ec3147-7733-4b91-8808-9338289a9853\/1024px-Avenue_des_Champs-E%CC%81lyse%CC%81es_July_24%2C_2009_N1.jpg)\n\n*Avenue des Champs Elysées seen from he Arc de Triomhe. Photo:* [*Josh Hallett*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Avenue_des_Champs-%C3%89lys%C3%A9es_July_24,_2009_N1.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 2.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/2.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons.*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/527d0ec3-703c-46fa-a1f5-8198dd79a333\/1024px-Rue_de_Marignan%2C_Paris_11_August_2015.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1746561823343-F6V93CYANEH1766JJ9K7\/unsplash-image-OoAr4_ZsIcw.jpg)\n\nGrand architecture along the *Avenue des Champs Elysées*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/d0e10e2a-c815-45d3-bc76-835b97bcc391\/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honore%CC%81%2C_Paris_8e.jpg)\n\n*Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. Photo:* [*Celette*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honor%C3%A9,_Paris_8e.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nIf you’re looking for a neighborhood that screams Parisian grandeur, this is it. An upscale and stunningly impressive area, the 8th arrondissement is what many people imagine when they picture Paris. Think broad boulevards, elegantly sculpted 19th-century Haussman-era buildings, and gargantuan monuments. Plus shopping - a whole lot of luxury shopping.\n\nLocated on the Right Bank and a bit to the west of the city center, the defining feature of this neighborhood is the tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Elysées - an enormous stately boulevard that is Paris’s most famous street. It stretches from the towering Arc de Triomphe in the west all the way to Place de la Concorde in the east, butting up against the Tuileries Gardens and almost taking you right to the Louvre.\n\nAll along that stretch and on its side streets is a dizzying line-up of famous designer stores (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Givenchy, etc.), global high-street brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, 5-star hotels, and a huge selection of ritzy cocktail bars, fine chocolatiers, macaron-makers, and more.\n\nThis is also where you’ll find the fabled Golden Triangle (formed by connecting Avenues Montaigne and George V with the Champs-Elysées), and the area lives up to the name, offering a true bounty of all things upscale.\n\nI know I’m painting a picture of extreme wealth and out-of-reach opulence, but that’s kind of the theme here. This is one of Paris’ richest neighborhoods and the city’s luxury shopping hub, and being close to all of that is the appeal of staying here. For hotels, you have some of the best and most opulent in town, with a collection of absurdly beautiful palace hotels. Accordingly, luxury travelers and those interested in high-end shopping and dining will find themselves right at home.\n\nPeople who are not so interested in those things will probably still enjoy a walk past the designer stores or a splurge-worthy meal, but will be glad to be based elsewhere.\n\nThis is also a business hub, so it’s not just rich residents and tourists. During the day, you’ll find plenty of working Parisians, mainly in the surrounding offices and out and about grabbing lunch or post-work drinks. People do live here too, and the swanky side streets actually feel fairly lived-in, just by fabulously wealthy people...\n\nMere mortals do also come to the neighborhood and I find myself here regular; often to enjoy a spectacular cocktail at one of the glamorous hotel bars or, a bit more mundanely, to get my computer serviced at the Apple Store.\n\nThere *are* otherappeals to staying here beyond just luxury amenities - the neighborhood is a genuine cultural powerhouse with many of the city’s best museums: on the eastern end of the Champs-Elysées you’ve got the Grand and Petit Palais, the Palais de l’Élysée, the Hôtel de la Marine (one of my favorite museums in Paris), La Galerie Dior. Head south and you’ll stumble upon the Musée Guimet (for Asian art), the Palais de Tokyo, the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris and the Palais Galliera (Paris’s fashion museum).\n\nFor fans of the performing arts, there are also a number of good theaters, though shows are usually in French.\n\nFinally, when it comes to moving around the city, this is one of the best-served areas for public transit. You’ve got access to no fewer than 5 different subway lines, many of which run through the center of Paris and straight past the other sights and neighborhoods that you’re likely planning to visit.\n\nAnd one final note: should you choose to stay here, I would strongly recommend *not* staying directly on the Champs Elysées, which is always insanely busy and extremely touristy. It’s far better to find a hotel a few blocks off from there along one of the side streets.\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Ffouquet-s-barriere-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0__130909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649379%3Bsrpvid%3D54b4606f72ec05e5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b3e96ea49a7b4e3688336127c-446356_cjevent-ac3c43224bc311f081ec03db0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Even the wealthiest of Parisians jostle for a spot on the 5-star Fouquet’s hidden rooftop garden, which feels a world away from the bustle of the Champs Elysées outside. The rooms are truly ostentatious, there’s an 8,600 square foott spa, and the downstairs brasserie is an institution. \\$1500\n\n[**Hôtel Grand Powers**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fgrand-powers.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-727467c7194c4cdd97c4d4530-446356_cjevent-b9202a3cf57e11f0824302170a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a ritzy corner of the Golden Triangle, this chic 5-star set in a gorgeously restored 1920’s building is an absolute favorite in the neighborhood. Guests get all the luxuries of the area’s grand hotels without the attitude (or the insane prices) with a more intimate feel and perks like fireplaces, a spa and pool, balconies and views. €700\n\n[**Hôtel Lancaster Paris**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flancaster-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0__77701%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649528%3Bsrpvid%3Deeac60b8e0490091%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9eaf67c6ef5b4e13989364936-446356_cjevent-092bceb5e63311f080f0073b0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A classy 5-star hotel that feels like private home. A stream of film stars have stayed here – from Orson Wells to David Lynch—Marlene Dietrich’s piano still resides in her eponymous suite and it’s still a celebrity favorite. The swank Copper Bay cocktail lounge and courtyard restaurant are both neighborhood standouts. €550\n\n[**Citizen M Champs Elysée**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcitizenm-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827_33091%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649557%3Bsrpvid%3D7c9c60c9a7150332%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-2f0e56be85f846a387acb4ca5-446356_cjevent-ac42ea084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A big, modern hotel just off the Champs Elysées with fun design objects in common areas (think a bending lamppost light). There’s a rooftop bar with an Eiffel Tower views too! \\$500\n\n[**Maison Albar**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-mac-mahon.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D333958%3Bdest_type%3Dhotel%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0__54545%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649604%3Bsrpvid%3D158560e0acef04a9%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0d4318f1ffc46b58d20467e2-446356_cjevent-ac3b2c584bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the Arc de Triomphe in a classic Haussmann-style building, choose this for kitschy-chic rooms in orange, gray and\/or blue (some with mirrored ceilings), and a low-key bar restaurant, that opens out onto the street outside. \\$380\n\n[**Hôtel Monsieur George**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonsieur-george-amp-spa-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-08609bc0d1e34c0485dcf5189-446356_cjevent-ae04921bf57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Though only a few minutes’ walk from the Champs-Elysées, this ravishing, cosmopolitan hotel feels a world away. Quiet, discreet, and loaded with charm, it boasts a Michelin-star restaurant with an outdoor garden terrace. All at a third of what you’d pay at most luxury hotels in the neighborhood. €350\n\n[**Hôtel du Rond Point Champs-Elysées**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-rond-point-des-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a8c0fd0f44434c8895ef26d3d-446356_cjevent-ae0bbb6bf57e11f0824502160a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** “Budget” hotels are hard to come by on these tony streets, so it’s no surprise rooms at this welcoming boutique hotel on a quiet street close to the avenue are at a premium. Besides impeccable service, this dapper hotel’s sleek bar, swimming pool and steam room complement the handsome rooms, many with outdoor terraces and views. €230\n\n[**Hôtel Ekta**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fekta.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7c9a30f4e0a44bdf8ce7969a2-446356_cjevent-ae0e07e4f57e11f083fd01ff0a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) **\\-** This sleek budget hotel’s cozy '60s-inspired rooms evoke the designer Courrèges, with a black-and-white design, bold color-block accents, and lots of mirrors, and their smart layouts make them seem bigger than they are. The pricier suites, some with an outdoor terrace, are still a bargain in this neighborhood. €190\n\n[**Hôtel Regents Garden**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpremierregentsgarden.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0__40818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649652%3Bsrpvid%3Dbefc60f63f7d053a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9c2b4ffb1eb34ed5a08b3a5c1-446356_cjevent-0f9943cbe8c811f0826009c00a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A brilliant budget option about a 10-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. Rooms are small, with bold patterned fabrics. There’s a big, sheltered courtyard garden with tables – a godsend on a hot day. €160+\n\n## **Other neighborhoods to consider**\nBetween the 5 neighborhoods above, I think just about everyone should be able to find somewhere that makes for a good home base in Paris. But there are lots more options of course, so if you’re looking for somewhere different or just want to get an idea for what else is out there, I’ve included 3 other areas to consider below.\n\n### **Grands Boulevards – 9th arr.**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/b7c6a3eb-6dbc-48e9-977d-1cc7ac7fcfb4\/1024px-Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg)\n\n*Looking down the Passage Jouffroy. Photo:* [*Chabe01*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg)*,* [*CC BY-SA 4.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/af3dafcb-b402-442a-b546-e202d5517977\/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Montmartre%2C_26_May_2012.jpg)\n\nJust to the north of the Louvre and expanding out from\/around the magnificent Opéra Garnier, you have the area known as the Grands Boulevards. An extremely atmospheric and pretty part of the city, a stroll here will take you past the ***grands magasins***(department stores) of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette and under some of Paris’s loveliest **covered passages** - Jouffroy, Verdeau and Panoramas - each lined with high-end shops and historic restaurants and cafés of mostly high regard.\n\nBusy with shoppers and tourists during the day, and theatergoers and people out for night on the town in the evenings, it’s a lively and surprisingly local neighborhood considering its location in the very center of the city. In addition to the grand department stores and pretty architecture, much of what you’ll find here are theaters, concert halls, bars, and restaurants and cafés. As you head north the crowd gets a bit younger and you’ll find an even denser cluster of bars along with many nice, but casual restaurants.\n\nIn recent years, a number of highly sought-after boutique hotels have opened up here (Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hotel Hana, Adele et Jules, La Fantaisie, etc.), so you also have a very good selection of accommodation and the prices are quite reasonable considering the great location.\n\nThe main reason I haven’t included the neighborhood as one of my top recommendations is twofold: firstly, I’m mindful that the more youthful and nightlife heavy areas won’t be very attractive for lots of people. They’re fun spots to go for a night out, but you don’t necessarily need or want to have your hotel there.\n\nAnd secondly, not that many people actually live in the neighborhood, so although it’s always busy with workers and shoppers during the day, and the nightlife and restaurant-heavy sections are bustling at night, the more commercial\/shopping focused stretches can feel rather too quiet in the evenings. Weekends can be rather dead too, as none of the workers are around.\n\nNeither of those is necessarily a dealbreaker, but they’re things to know and consider as you weigh up whether this is a good base for you.\n\n### **Eiffel Tower - 7th and 16th arr.**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1e25983c-e302-4529-a8cb-6efc12469de1\/1024px-Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg)\n\n*Rue Saint-Dominique looking at the Eiffel Tower. Photo:* [*L-BBE*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg)*,* [*CC BY 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1dc356bc-8188-4f21-80ec-2a9ed6cbcdc1\/1024px-P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.jpeg)\n\n*Elegeant Rue de Grenelle. Photo:* [*Mbzt*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.JPG)*,* [*CC BY 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/34877717-fba0-473f-8970-d1e43bc3b1be\/IMG_1752+Large.jpg)\n\n*Musée Maillol along Rue de Grenelle in the 7th*\n\nLots of people think that staying near the Eiffel Tower is a good idea, but in general, I’ve found that it isn’t. The tower, located in the sprawling 7th arrondissement well to the west of basically everywhere else that you’re going to be visiting, just isn’t centrally located enough to be a very good base. You’re going to come out here at some point of course, but it’s usually a better idea to visit than to stay in the neighborhood.\n\nHaving said that, it’s a genuinely lovely area, so sightseeing (in)convenience aside, it’s a very nice place to hang out in. Elegant, upscale, and once the favored home of much of France’s nobility, most of what you have here today is an attractive mix of upscale residential areas, government buildings and embassies, and a healthy dose of boutiques, restaurants, and shops. As an area to live in, it’s really quite nice.\n\nCentral **Rue Saint-Dominique**, which leads up to the Champ de Mars (the Eiffel Tower’s park), is packed with tempting shops, cafés, patisseries, bars, and lots more, while **Rue Cler**, which runs off from there, is one of the city’s more scenic market streets. Those are the main spots, but there are plenty of other lively and pleasant areas, so you certainly won’t struggle to find places to eat, drink, or browse if you stay here.\n\nThere are also a few big sights nearby beyond the Eiffel tower: high-end shoppers should absolutely make the requisite pilgrimage to Le Bon Marché, Paris’s most elegant department store, while the palatial Invalides (where Napleon’s tomb is) and Musée Rodin are steps away to your east.\n\nMeanwhile, the Trocadéro is just across the river, as are the Musée de la Marine, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée de l’Homme, the Paris Aquarium, the marvelous Théâtre Nationale de Chaillot, and a collection of some of the city’s best art\/fashion museums.\n\nAgain, like I said above, the main disadvantage to staying here is just that you’ll be too far to walk for most of your sightseeing (around 40 minutes to a lot of the more central areas). There are also only a couple of convenient metro stops, so you’ll only have access to one or two lines and will often have about a 10-minute walk to a station.\n\n### **The Louvre - 1st arr.**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/225f0e75-8404-42bd-80e9-c4d2d0a859ac\/1024px-Paris_75001_Rue_de_Rivoli_no_47_towards_west_2141209.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/94f75a52-88dd-41fd-bb52-e1a8e32da24f\/1024px-Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.jpeg)\n\n*The gardens of the Palais Royal. Photo:* [*LPLT*](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/File:Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.JPG)*,* [*CC BY-SA 3.0*](https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/3.0)*, via Wikimedia Commons*\n\nThe beating heart of Paris and an architecturally magnificent area, the Louvre\/1st arrondissement overflows with sights and cultural offerings, including the golden constellation that is the Louvre, the Bourse de Commerce-Pinault Collection, the Centre Pompidou (closed for renovations), and the newly opened Fondation Cartier. Not to mention the Tuileries Gardens and Paris’s unrivaled beauty, the Palais Royal gardens.\n\nWithin easy walking distance of the Opera Garnier, the Champs Elysées, the Marais, and even all the sights and charming neighborhoods across the river on the Left Bank, this is also an incredibly convenient location for sightseeing. There’s a good selection of hotels too, including some surprisingly affordable options alongside the pricier but wonderful Grand Dame hotels like Le Meurice, the Ritz, and the Cheval Blanc.\n\nSounds a bit too good to be true, right? Well, that’s because it is: the drawbacks are that this is an almost exclusively touristic area where no one actually lives. Other than workers during the day, you won’t find any local life here and you’re probably more likely to hear English (or any of a thousand other languages) spoken around you than French. In line with that, aside from some tourist traps and very high-end establishments, there’s little in the way of restaurants, cafés, or nightlife.\n\nIf you’re willing to entirely sacrifice atmosphere in favor of sightseeing convenience, it’s a great place to stay. You just have to be ok with that tradeoff.\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSee Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/Apg9JBg.jpeg)\n\n**Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it**\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/fb7508d0-e6ee-4c7d-8f78-fc1e407bc369\/1024px-Chez_Euge%CC%80ne%2C_Place_du_Tertre%2C_Paris_15_March_2010.jpg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/98ed81f3-ce3f-4251-812f-eb97bcd4b15a\/1024px-Sacre_Coeur_1.jpeg)\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/8ce4485a-62a0-4a5a-8c46-69b6ed7add0e\/1024px-Montmartre_hills_to_taverns%2C_Paris_20_May_2014.jpg)\n\nI’m aware that loads of guides (largely written by other tourists) list Montmartre as a top area to stay, so I imagine it may be surprising that I’ve listed it as somewhere ***not***to stay. That’s because this is one of Paris’ most polarizing neighborhoods and it’s one that people either adore or absolutely hate. I think it’s a nice place to visit, but not somewhere you should stay. Let me explain why.\n\nMontmartre, most famous for being home to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, sits high atop the Butte Montmartre hill in the 18th arrondissement, well to the north of central Paris. One of the highest points in the city, the views here are truly spectacular and there’s an almost village-like atmosphere with a charmingly quaint streetscape. There’s no denying how nice it is to wander amid the cobblestone streets while admiring the little houses covered in ivy, the area’s two windmills, and even an urban vineyard.\n\nIf that description has you thinking “well that sounds amazing”, hold on. While Montmartre is all the things I just described, it’s also extremely inconveniently located, is borderline overrun by tourists, and not actually very Parisian. I think that it’s the type of area you should visit, but definitely not stay in.\n\nSince Montmartre sits high atop a hill, getting between the different parts of the neighborhood requires regular uphill and downhill walks which can be genuinely fatiguing. What might be a charming hilly stroll for a single afternoon can quickly become a drag when you have to do it every morning and evening.\n\nAnd when it comes to sightseeing and getting to the rest of Paris, Montmartre is simply far from everywhere else. It’s well-served by the metro (there are no fewer than 7 metro stations, providing access to 4 different lines), but journey times are still much longer than they would be if staying more centrally. You will routinely have 30-minute metro rides to get wherever you’re going.\n\nAs one of the last neighborhoods to be annexed into Paris (it was a separate town prior to that), Montmartre is the last bastion of the city that retains its small town feel. If your vision of Paris is an Old-World village with cobblestone streets, pleasant little squares, and streets lined with bakeries, cafés, and restaurants whose tables spill out onto the sidewalk, this is as close as you’ll get to it. It’s nothing like the rest of Paris and doesn’t really represent the city more broadly, but it’s undeniably charming (even if extremely touristy).\n\nOf course, the area’s appeal is lost on no one, and the neighborhood is absolute catnip for day trippers, who flock here by the thousands to see the Basilica and wander the streets. Parts of Montmartre get legitimately overrun with visitors - **Place du Tertre** is the most egregious - and the atmosphere is frequently unpleasantly touristic. In some parts, you will struggle to find anywhere that isn’t a tourist trap.\n\nIt’s not exclusively a tourist zone and if you wander away from the most popular areas you can find pockets of local life, but you’ll have to seek those places out.\n\nIf you choose to ignore my advice and want to stay here, know that there are two distinct parts to Montmartre, something that guidebooks often neglect to explain. There’s the **upper area** around the Sacré-Coeur, which is where you’ll find the hilly cobbled streets and picturesque, Old-World feel. This is what most people think of when they picture the neighborhood. It’s also the most touristy section.\n\nThen there’s the **lower area**, heading south toward Pigalle and the rest of the city, which is much more urban, younger, and livelier. This was once Paris’s notorious red light district, but nowadays it’s a cool neighborhood and a major go-out area that’s filled with trendy bars, modern restaurants (from big brasseries to chic bistros), and nice hotels. The **Moulin** Rouge is here too, along the always lively **Boulevard de Clichy**.\n\nAnd in between those two ends of the neighborhood, you have Montmartre’s middle region around the **Rue des Abbesses,** which is lined with tempting boutiques and cafés. Right nearby, the ancient market street of **Rue des Martyrs** has lots of interesting shopping as well. This area is both geographically and atmospherically a sort of middle ground between the north and south of the neighborhood.\n\nWith all this in mind, here’s my overall advice: realistically, I think the neighborhood is just too far removed from the rest of the city to be a convenient base and I find it far too touristy. It’s just not a great place to stay. Ultimately, if you want to experience village life in France, go to a village\\!\n\n### **My recommended hotels**\n[**Hôtel Particulier Montmartre**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparticulier-montmartre-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649147%3Bsrpvid%3D00a55ffca2740998%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-f9ae08bcd4ab4e1da5cee57c3-446356_cjevent-ac3fc9644bc311f08176044e0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - On a hidden lane off a charming cobbled street, this elegant manor surrounded by a private park with towering trees offers five artist-designed suites. Even if you don’t sleep here, stop in for the romantic cocktail bar and restaurant, designed by the iconic Paris decorator Jacques Garcia. €720\n\n[**Maison Souquet**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmaison-souquet.htm%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-983a483c33f4445e88331b70c-446356_cjevent-d2f3bad6f57e11f083ef020a0a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in a former brothel, this drop-dead gorgeous hotel captures a romantic Belle Époque vibe that takes you back in time in the most over-the-top way. The opulent decor extends from two velvet-clad lounges to your cozy (read tiny) room and basement spa, complete with hammam and pool. €500\n\n[**Hôtel des Arts**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesarts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0__21432%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649321%3Bsrpvid%3Dd503604b12c60b62%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-19f7bb3461aa41fda49610ab1-446356_cjevent-ac3f992b4bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Family-run for three generations, this warm and welcoming hotel, housed in a pretty townhouse and decorated in a lively retro-style, offers exceptional views over the Montmartre streets and rooftops. A hammam and fitness room in the basement a great to come home to. €270\n\n[**Terrass Hotel**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fterrass-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649256%3Bsrpvid%3D8f4d60327c80034f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c13626b38e8c410bbc7d0c6b9-446356_cjevent-ac3f56594bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This trendy 4-star is famous for its spacious rooftop bar and restaurant, whose sweeping views of Paris make it popular with visitors and Parisians alike. The rooms - some with balconies and Eiffel Tower views - are small but well equipped. The onsite Nuxe spa is a big plus. €200\n\n[**Hôtel le Relais Montmartre**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelrelaismontmartre.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0__18720%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649281%3Bsrpvid%3D38a4603e0f4a082a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0c24cc6f387c4d39a22abaf8f-446356_cjevent-fa12a81f0a7011f183a301aa0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This cozy 4-star family-run hotel feels like coming home, with tasteful rooms that privilege comfort and calm. Its location in the heart of the village, and its relatively gentle prices, assure its popularity. €200\n\n[**Hotel Basss**](https:\/\/www.stay22.com\/allez\/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcomfort-paris-18eme-sacre-coeur.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0__20818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649344%3Bsrpvid%3D005a605df0f10673%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-5d3fe2345c814a2a8ae72d927-446356_cjevent-ac428aaa4bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Among the shops and cafés of Rue des Abbesses, this 3-star boutique hotel offers small, bright, and functional rooms in pale pastel shades—some with lovely views—and a quaint little courtyard terrace. €175\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nDitch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/btapiYb.jpeg)\n\n## **Frequently asked questions**\nIf you’ve gotten this far and still can’t make up your mind, below I have tried to directly answer some of the major questions people typically have.\n\n**Best overall area?**\n\nFor visitors on their first trip who will likely be doing a lot of the “conventional” sightseeing and who also want a classic Parisian atmosphere, **Le Marais** is always my top recommendation.It’s extremely central - walkable to many of the city’s main sights - and exceedingly pretty and atmospheric with narrow and pedestrianized streets. While touristy, it does not feel “overrun” and you’ll find lots of good shopping, a solid dining scene, and countless nice cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers. It just feels quintessentially Parisian.\n\n**Best neighborhood for families?**\n\nIf you’re traveling with little kids, the **Latin Quarter** and **Saint-Germain-des-Prés** are always my top recommendations. Both neighborhoods are riverfront (kids love watching the boats), they are both central so you can get most places on foot, and you have a huge green space in each: the Jardins du Luxembourg (for Saint Germain des Pres) and the Jardin des Plantes (for the Latin Quarter).Saint Germain is more central and has better public transit connections but is also a fair deal pricier.\n\n**Best area for a luxury stay?**\n\nIf you’re looking for an upscale and luxurious Paris experience, then I think your best bet is to stay either along the **Champs Elysées** (around the Golden Triangle area) or in **Saint-Germain-des-Prés**.\n\n**Saint-Germain-des-Prés** is a historic literary quarter that’s wealthy but not ostentatiously so, and it’s a real neighborhood with a pleasantly local atmosphere (away from the most touristy parts), great dining, and interesting shops. Hotels are mostly boutique and quite nice.\n\nThe **Champs Elysées**, meanwhile, is much grander and more opulent, with lavish palace- hotels, swanky cocktail bars, gourmet restaurants, and true luxury shopping. It has much less of a neighborhood feel though and is a whole lot flashier.\n\n**Where to stay if you’re on a budget?**\n\nIf you’re on a budget and trying to get the best bang for your buck, I’d recommend looking in the **11th arrondissement**, ideally between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation. This is a hip but predominantly local part of town, and it has good dining, shopping, and nightlife in addition to affordable hotels (and lots of apartment rentals).\n\nAnother nice option, but which I’d mainly recommend for travelers on the younger side of 40, would be **Belleville**, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements.\n\n**Best neighborhood for younger travelers or those looking for nightlife?**\n\nIf you’re young and\/or are planning on enjoying a lot of late nights, I recommend the 11th arr., Belleville, or Grands Boulevards\/Pigalle.\n\n**The 11th arrondissement** - especially near Place de la Bastille\/Rue de la Roquette and to the north along Rue Oberkampf - is a great option for anyone after a cool neighborhood that has good but pleasantly casual nightlife. It’s not exclusively a “go out area”, so has lots of restaurants and shops in addition to the bars. Very international, you’ll see a fair deal of expats and other visitors in addition to younger Parisians.\n\n**Belleville**, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements has a similar vibe, especially along Rue de Belleville, but less gentrified and with a more gritty atmosphere. It’s also more multicultural, but with immigrant communities as opposed to expats.\n\n**Grands Boulevards** & **Pigalle** (the 9th arrondissement) are extremely lively and youthful at night and overflowing with bars. The nightlife here is more “intense” than in the two neighborhoods above and it can be quite loud at night near the busy streets.\n\n**Where to stay for walkability to the big sights?**\n\nStaying around the **Louvre** and anywhere in the **1st arrondissement** more broadly puts you literally in the very center of the city. It’s a beautiful area and there are big sights all around you often just a few minutes’ walk away. The downside is that it’s extremely expensive, overwhelmingly touristy, and has very little authentic life.\n\n**Saint-Germain-des-Prés** has fewer of its own sights, but it’s smack in the middle of many other places that you’ll be visiting so is super convenient. The Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens, Napoleon’s Tomb, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Mariais and Latin Quarter are all just a short walk away. It’s also just a really nice neighborhood.\n\nFinally, the Golden Triangle area of the **8th arrondissement** is farther from most of the sights, but many of Paris’s best museums are on its doorstep, so it’s a wonderful base for culture\/museum-minded travelers.\n\n**Best area for moving about the city (best public transit connections)?**\n\nParis’s metro system is incredibly comprehensive, so the city doesn’t lack for well-connected neighborhoods, but if I had to pick a few areasthat provide truly stellar access, I’d suggest finding a hotel near the following stations: **Montparnasse-Bienvenüe**, **Nation**, **République**, and **Châtelet**. Each of these provides access to at least 4 different metro lines and they’re also in pleasant residential neighborhoods (except for Châtelet, which is right in the city center).\n\n**Safest neighborhoods?**\n\nHonestly, if you’re staying anywhere relatively central, I don’t think that you need to be worried about safety. Paris is very safe overall, and other than pickpocketing or typical tourist scams, you’re unlikely to have any issues while here. The only place I think you’re better off avoiding is the area around the **Gare du Nord train station**, which can feel quite unpleasant, especially later at night.\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews\n\nSpend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\\!\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA\/village.png?format=500w)\n\nCity tours by car & foot\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3\/diamond.png)\n\nHidden gems and local culture\n\n![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v1\/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb\/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K\/chef.png?format=300w)\n\nFood & market tours\n\n![](https:\/\/i.imgur.com\/pTaDWr5.jpeg)\n\n[![](https:\/\/images.squarespace-cdn.com\/content\/v2\/namespaces\/memberAccountAvatars\/libraries\/5c38ea8849bad6fa18e67b10\/5925c912-56b3-430b-85ef-75e98c26921a\/Jen+Ladone+avatar.jpeg) Jennifer Ladone](https:\/\/goaskalocal.com\/blog?author=696eac9250c02f30d63c8030)\n\nAn editor and translator by trade, Jennifer swapped New York City for Paris in 2004 and has been living in the French capital ever since. An expert on all things Paris, she’s a regular features writer for France Today magazine, the co-author of the book “Fodor’s Around Paris With Kids”, and the hotel and restaurant reviewer for Fodor’s Paris.\n\n<https:\/\/jenniferladonne.com\/>","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Title	Where to Stay in Paris - A Local’s Neighborhood Guide — Go Ask A Local
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Boilerpipe Text	Where to Stay in Paris - Best Neighborhoods & Hotels Affiliate disclosure: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it! A trip to Paris is always a big deal and when you’re visiting the most beautiful city in the world, you really do want both your hotel and neighborhood to live up to your expectations. And if you, like most people, are staying here for more than just a couple of days, where you stay can have a huge impact on your trip and overall impression of Paris. But deciding where to stay here is no easy feat, especially given that this fabulous city has more than 2,000 hotels and 285,000 short-term rentals. That’s a lot of choice - too much if you ask me! A friend once remarked that deciding where to stay in Paris is like standing in front of a pâtisserie counter with 100 different pastries; everything looks amazing but it’s impossible to choose because there’s just too much to take in. And that’s why I’ve written this guide! In it, I’ve recommended my 5 favorite neighborhoods for visitors and described each of them comprehensively. I’ve broken down the key aspects of each neighborhood and have tried to carefully weigh the pros and cons so that you have a clear picture and can decide which ones are likely to be a good fit for you. I’ve also included some suggested hotels in each at various price points. As a long-time Paris resident (I’ve lived here for over 20 years now), I know the city well and admittedly have very strong opinions on which areas are best for visitors. I’m not just an opinionated local though - I’ve also authored multiple guidebooks on Paris and have spent countless hours wandering the city’s many neighborhoods and visiting hundreds of hotels within them. At the end of the article, I’ve also addressed the “thorny issue” of Montmartre, and have given quick overviews of 3 other neighborhoods that I think are potentially good choices if you don’t find what you’re looking for in my main recommendations. Table of Contents A few key things to know Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods Map of my recommended hotels 1. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement) 2. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) 3. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement) 4. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) 5. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement) Other neighborhoods to consider Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it Frequently asked questions More France travel info ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours A few key things to know Paris’s arrondissements, with the Seine River dividing the city into the left and right banks. Photo: Hmaglione10 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Before getting into my neighborhood recommendations, I think it’s useful to provide a quick look at Paris’ layout and geography as that will help you understand everything to follow in this article. Here are the main things to think about: Arrondissements The first thing to know is that Paris is encircled by a ring road, within which are 20 fixed administrative districts called arrondissements (abbreviated to arr.). Numbered 1 through 20, they spiral out in a snail shape starting from the Louvre (1st arr.) and ending in the 20th in the north-east. In general, the higher the number, the farther the district is from the city center. Neighborhoods Because the arrondissements are quite large and have distinct areas within them, they can be further broken down into individual neighborhoods, which have names as opposed to numbers. This is how we Parisians actually think of the city - by neighborhood - as the arrondissements are mostly just used for official governmental purposes. You’ve probably already heard of some of these areas: Montmartre, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain des Près, etc. Unlike the arrondissements, these neighborhoods aren't defined by firm borders, so just be aware that some of them actually straddle multiple arrondissements. I know that’s confusing, so let me explain: places like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre lie squarely within one arrondissement (the 5th and 18th, respectively) while others, like the Marais, straddle multiple. The cool neighborhood of Nation, for example, falls within 3 different arrondissements - the 11th, 12th and 20th. River Seine - Left Bank and Right Bank Next, you’ve got Paris’s principal geographic feature to consider: the River Seine, which cuts through the middle of the city from west to east, creating the Right Bank ( Rive Droite ) on the northern side, and the Left Bank ( Rive Gauche ) on the southern side. As you can see on the map above, the right bank covers arrondissements 1-4, 8-12, and 16-20, while the left bank covers 5, 6, 7, and 13-15. Historically, the Left Bank was known for being intellectual and bohemian, while the Right Bank was more business-oriented and bourgeois, but those distinctions don’t hold true at all anymore. They haven’t for many, many years, so don’t listen to anyone who describes them that way. Regarding sights, many of the city’s famous landmarks and attractison are spread out along the length of the River Seine, usually within a quick walk of the water. This means that there’s no one touristic center in which you’ll find all the main sights packed close together. Public transport Paris is a relatively small, walkable capital. On foot, you can cover its entire breadth from east to west - taking in a bucket-list worth of sights along the way - in as little as 2-3 hours. When you don’t want to walk, the city also has one of best metro systems in the world with 16 lines and 303 stations that comprehensively cover just about everywhere that you’ll want to go. As long as you stay near a convenient metro station, you should be able to get most everywhere quite quickly and efficiently. ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods The 5 neighborhoods that I’ve recommended in this guide are all convenient, centrally located, and very pleasant places to spend time. They’re all good bases for first-timers (easy access to the big sights and good transport connections) and have a great selection of hotels. Realistically, you’ll do just fine by picking any of them. However, they offer significantly different atmospheres and certain types of travelers are sure to prefer some over others. So, as you read through this guide, my main piece of advice would be to consider which area you think best aligns with the version of Paris you want to experience and then choose accordingly. No matter what area you choose, make sure that your hotel is close to a metro stop. Paris’ sights are spread widely throughout the city and no area offers walkability to everything, so you will absolutely need to use public transport. If you ignore this advice, you’ll quickly find out why that dreamy hotel you booked was such good value; 20-minute slogs to the metro get old pretty fast. With the basics covered, now let’s take a quick look at my 5 main recommended areas. 1 - Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissement) - red on the map above The Marais is my top recommendation, especially for first-time visitors who will be doing a lot of sightseeing. It’s extremely central, always lively and bustling, and is Paris’ only remaining medieval area with narrow streets and seriously charming architecture. The Picasso museum and the Pompidou center, along with a host of other cultural institutions and sights are right in the neighborhood, and it’s also overflowing with boutique shops, trendy cafés, good bakeries, and bars and restaurants. It’s trendy and tourist-friendly, but also popular with locals. 2 - The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) - purple above Over on the Left Bank and just across the River Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral, this historic students’ quarter is equal parts bohemian, intellectual/academic, and touristy. It’s full of quaint, narrow streets that wind between big monuments like the Panthéon and the Sorbonne university, and there are tons of low-key cafés and affordable restaurants. Given the large student population there’s also very fun nightlife, although it skews a bit young. You have great greenery here as well via the Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin Des Plantes. 3 - Saint-Germain des Près (6th Arrondissement) - black/grey above As central as you can get, this wealthy and elegant Left Bank area is filled with art galleries, chic shops, and historic literary cafés. It’s very upscale, but in a classy and understated way and is the type of neighborhood you’ll dream about buying yourself a townhouse in (for only $10,000,000!). If you’ve got a healthy budget and are looking to stay somewhere beautiful, convenient, and well-heeled, this is a fabulous choice. 4 - Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) - yellow above The 11th arrondissement is a young, hip, and lively residential district where you can get a real feel for what actual local life is like in Paris. It’s not as grand as the other areas that I’ve recommended in this guide and it has very few sights, but it’s a great part of the city to just hang out in. It’s not a touristy area and it has a great dining scene, very good nightlife (mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues), and some excellent shopping streets. If you’re looking for neighborhood vibes and to get away from the tourist crowds, I heartily recommend it. 5 - Champs-Élysées (8th Arrondissement) - blue above A bit to the northwest of the city center, this grand and imposing neighborhood is a very posh part of town that’s teeming with luxury shops, high-end hotels, and swanky cocktail bars. Unabashedly commercial and also a business hub, it can feel a bit impersonal, however. There’s also a host of world-class museums and cultural centers within walking distance, making it the ideal base for luxury travelers who want to mix shopping with culture. Map of my recommended hotels If you’re just looking for some quick suggestions for accommodation, the map below shows all the hotels that I’ve recommended throughout this guide. It includes options across my 5 recommended neighborhoods and at all different price points. Happy (hotel) hunting! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours 1. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement) Best for: Basically everyone; anyone looking for a great combination of museums/sights, art, shopping, and food Pros: Beautiful and historic area; heavily pedestrianized; tons of sights; good shopping and dining; extremely central; mix of local and touristic feel Cons: Extremely busy at all times; pretty touristy; accommodation is expensive The half-timber houses on Rue François Miron. Photo: Mbzt , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Always my top recommendation for first-time visitors, the Marais is a beautiful, charming, and historic neighborhood at the very heart of Paris. It has gorgeous architecture, a wealth of pedestrianized streets, and is absolutely filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and a big array of sights and attractions. This is the one neighborhood that really does have it all. Spanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the right bank of the Seine River, in addition to being lovely, the Marais is also super central and exceptionally convenient as a base for sightseeing. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance to many of Paris’s major sights - like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pompidou Center, the Louvre, Île Saint-Louis - and other wonderful neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près and the Latin Quarter just across the river. You also have easy access to public transport via the 5 metro lines that pass through here. For pure convenience, this neighborhood simply cannot be beat. In terms of atmosphere, the streets are always bustling with a nice mix of tourists and locals, who come here mostly to shop at the nice little boutiques. This is the only neighborhood in Paris that retains its medieval architecture and layout, so the streets are narrow and winding and many are pedestrianized, making it the perfect area for leisurely strolls. This is especially true of the less-crowded streets in the Haut Marais (the upper part of the neighborhood farther from the river). Regarding accommodation, most hotels are fairly upscale and pretty expensive, but you can still find bargains. If you like boutique and design-forward properties, you’ll have lots to choose from. For sightseeing, the area’s graceful 17th and 18th-century mansions house a bevy of interesting museums, you have one of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks - the Place des Vosges, and there are a host of charming squares and gardens that are delightfully tucked away out of sight. As you wander the streets, you’ll pass a never-ending array of contemporary art galleries, hip coffee shops, Instagrammable pâtisseries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. There’s not much in the way of “heavy” nightlife, but you do have some very nice wine and cocktail bars. When choosing where to eat, do be aware that there are a fair deal of tourist traps here so you’ll want to do some research rather than deciding at random. Because this is a popular area for dining, many of the better restaurants also require advance booking. Nowhere is truly perfect though, so let me quickly admit that my glowing recommendation comes with a caveat: those who dislike crowds and bustle or anyone who prefers something more off-the-beaten-path should probably look elsewhere. This is Paris’s most popular neighborhood - for Parisians and tourists alike - and its both busy and pretty touristy. It absolutely doesn’t feel overrun by tourism, but you’ll hear as much English and Spanish as you will French. My recommended hotels Le Pavillon de la Reine - Great for a splurge, this luxury boutique hotel set back from the elegant Place des Vosges has a private mansion feel, with an enclosed ivy-clad garden and a sumptuous décor (think velvet and bold patterns and colors and designer furnishings). The excellent in-hotel restaurant Anne has a Michelin star. €700 SO/Paris - One of Paris’s “see and be seen” hotels, this beautiful lodging, set a few steps off the Seine river in a quiet residential area in the lower Marais, is catnip to the fashion crowd (and Emily in Paris) for its superb design and luxe rooms. Not to mention the views: these are some of the very best in Paris, right from your room’s picture windows. It’s restaurant Bonnie’s is a great place to take in the views, and the scene, especially from the top-floor cocktail bar and club. €500+ L’Hôtel du Petit Moulin - Set in a 19th-century bakery with a décor by Christian Lacroix, this quirky 4-star hotel is a favorite of the fashion crowd. Lacroix’s signature riot of patterns and colors reigns here in everything from giant butterfly motifs and leopard-prints to trompe l’oeil theater scenes. The result is great, lively fun. €350 Hôtel Jules & Jim - This 4-star hotel set among lively cafés and bars retains an air of calm, thanks to a double courtyard that acts as a café-cocktail bar for all seasons, with a roaring outdoor fireplace in chilly weather. Spare modern rooms in monochrome whites and greys come with high-tech touches. Book a top-floor room for fab views over the Paris’s silvery rooftops. €230 Hôtel Boudoir des Muses - It’s hard to resist the romantic fun of this cozy boutique hotel just steps from the Marais’s most fashionable coffee bars, boutiques, you name it. Along with a super-chic room, the velvet-clad cabaret and romantic swimming pool “salons” (bookable for a private hour for two) put the ooh la la in your stay—and so does the affordable price. €220 Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais - Smack in the center of the Marais, this 3-star lodging, named for the Enlightenment-era playwright, is decked out like an 18th-century boudoir, with miles of toile-de-jouy wallpaper and antiques galore. Expect extra-cozy rooms (even for Paris)—a small price for a spot in the beating heart of the city. €200 Hôtel Emile Le Marais - Right by the St Paul Metro station, this small 2-star hotel has a lot going for it: great location, simple but well-decorated rooms (many with balconies), comfy mattresses and a pleasant little breakfast area. It’s a top choice if you’re on a budget. €190 2. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) Best for: Younger travelers; families; visitors who want to be central but in a local area Pros: Very central; plenty of affordable bars and restaurants; fun but not over-the-top nightlife; surprisingly reasonable hotel prices Cons: Student-heavy areas are noisy; sub-par public transit; very little shopping; a few areas are very touristy Place de la Sorbonne Looking down the Place de la Sorbonne The Natural History Museum in the Jardin des Plantes. Photo: Benh LIEU SONG , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Although it’s right in central Paris and just a quick (and lovely) stroll across the River Seine from the Marais, the Latin Quarter feels totally distinct. Whereas I regard the Marais as a great place to spend a few days, I - along with many other Parisians - consider the Latin Quarter a great place to actually live. Leafy and academic-feeling, the neighborhood has been home to the prestigious Sorbonne University for eight centuries and its presence dominates the area. As you wander around, you’ll see young students rubbing elbows with long-time residents, professors heading to and from class, and a fair few visitors making their way between the neat mix of greater and lesser-known monuments found here. I personally love the atmosphere and think it feels very cozy and homey. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to go for a leisurely afternoon stroll, especially when I’m hosting visitors who almost always feel as positively about the area as I do. It’s not nearly as cosmopolitan and exciting as the Marais, but away from the few pockets of touristy areas, it feels residential, local, and lived-in. It has a certain timeless feel to it and it’s easy to picture what life was like here even centuries ago. Beyond the cozy atmosphere, I also appreciate the diversity of its attractions: you’ve got bustling markets, stately monuments, spacious parks (like the wonderful Jardin des Plantes and Luxembourg Gardens), gorgeous old churches, some good museums, and even vestiges of Paris’s Roman past (the arena and Roman baths). It’s a very cool selection of sights and they’re varied enough that almost everyone can find something they’re interested in. For great people watching, I always like to to head to spots like Rue Mouffetard, one of Paris’s oldest and most scenic market streets, and Place de l’Estrapade near the Panthéon - which is sure to be recognizable to “ Emily in Paris” fans as her square of residence. The dining scene here is pretty good too, although some of it is student-oriented (think fast casual establishments) and the wine bars and restaurants aren’t usually super trendy. You’ll find lots of good quality sit-down restaurants though, and the atmosphere at them is usually relaxed and mostly local. I find that they’re great spots to settle in for a casual evening of good food, wine, and conversation. Regarding accommodation, hotels reflect the neighborhood character and tend to be smaller and often locally-run. Lots of them are quite nice and have very French design choices, but you also have a good selection of traditional 3-star hotels. One major drawback to staying in the Latin Quarter is that public transport here is rather poor. Although there are three metro lines, there are few stops and you’ll inevitably find that the “nearest” station is always a little further than you want it to be. Because of this, I often refer to the neighborhood as the “Bermuda Triangle of Paris”. It’s not a huge deal since you can walk most places from, but it’s something to consider. Overall, if you’re looking for a neighborhood that is close to the big tourist sights, but slightly removed from the crowds and touristy atmosphere, I think that the Latin Quarter checks all the boxes. My recommended hotels Hôtel Pilgrim - Set on a quiet street a block from the river, across from a lovely medieval abbey, this chic boutique hotel with loft-like interiors boasts an interior garden and rooftop bar, a spa with a small pool and sleek, tasteful rooms with rooftop views and plenty of calm. €370 Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin - The swimming pool and spa are a big draw at this hip 4-star lodging. Rooms are sleekly decorated and the chic cocktail bar, with an outdoor terrace, offers drinks and snacks all day. €370 Hôtel Monge - Housed in an elegant Haussmannian building near the Arènes de Lutèce and Jardin des Plantes (from where it draws its romantic floral motif), you’ll feel like you’re visiting a private home while staying here. The tearoom, honesty bar, hammam, and massage room make it a seriously relaxing place to return after a day on the town. €330 Hôtel Jardin de Cluny - A refined nature-inspired décor, stellar location by the Sorbonne, and some adjoining rooms (great for groups) make this a perenially popular choice. €275 Hôtel des Grands Hommes - You’re literally across from the Panthéon at this elegant 3-star hotel. In fact, front rooms offer views straight onto the monument. The classic décor privileges toile de jouy fabrics and antique furniture. A good central spot. €260 Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles - Set at the end of a leafy courtyard, this lovely hidden hotel feels like a day in the country, with trees brushing your window and the floral wallpaper lending it a bucolic vibe. Sip your morning coffee under the trees to the chirping of birds. A favorite budget hotel in Paris. €180 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours 3. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement) Best for: Luxury travelers; families with kids; anyone looking for a chic & cosmopolitan neighborhood Pros: Super central location; very pretty; filled with boutiques and art galleries; excellent high-end dining; nearby gardens and green spaces Cons: Everything is rather high-end; some parts are very touristy; pretty quiet in the evenings Rue de Médicis next to the Jardin du Luxembourg The corner of Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine Cour du Commerce St. André The Odéon Theatre in Saint-Germain Along with the Marais, this is the Paris neighborhood that I spend the most time in, for reasons both practical and indulgent. I personally love it and think it’s an excellent base for wealthier travelers who want to stay in an elegant area that feels quintessentially Parisian. Upscale but lived-in, Saint-Germain possesses a refined but slightly bohemian quality. A real local neighborhood, you’ll find a diverse but distinctly wealthy crowd here, from artists, actors, authors, expats, and “ gauche-caviar ” intellectuals (look it up!) to Parisian families who have lived in the same sprawling apartments for generations. Despite being walking distance to pretty much everywhere in central Paris, you may find that you barely leave the neighborhood. This is because you have everything at your fingertips right here - great dining and drinking, chic boutique hotels, designer and budget shopping, a few major sights, lots of interesting history, and charm galore. A historic literary quarter, it was here that artists, writers, and philosophers once gathered to argue, drink, and drink some more. Back in the day, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir made the cafés Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore their headquarters, while Hemmingway held court at the Brasserie Lipp. Those establishments are still standing and while they now overflow with tourists, they are undeniably atmospheric and grand. Things have changed quite a bit since the days of Hemingway, but this is still the publishing epicenter of Paris and it continues to feel a bit high-brow and intellectual (in a good way!), with picturesque brasseries and cafés, sprawling sidewalk terraces, and many bookstores and upscale boutiques. The atmosphere is wonderful and it’s a lovely place to while away the day and do some prime people-watching. This is also hands down my favorite shopping neighborhood, as you have many wonderful stores with all kinds of merchandise and it doesn’t feel nearly as teeming and commercial as the Marais or as ostentatiously rich as the Champs-Élysées. Shopping here will still put a dent in your wallet, but you’ll have a great time while blowing your budget! Irresistible boutiques aside, Saint-Germain’s warren of beautiful narrow streets also harbor great cheese, pastry, and wine shops (especially on the Rue du Bac), eclectic art galleries, sidewalk crêperies, and tons of wine bars and cafés. It’s also Paris’s chocolate center, boasting at least 15 world-class chocolatiers. In short, you will never struggle to find somewhere good to eat or drink while here. I also think this is a great location for families (those who can afford the high hotel prices) due to the proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’ most wonderful parks. Its spacious playground, reflecting pool, marionette theater, and the city’s oldest carousel never fail to enchant kids, while its tennis and pétanque courts, garden cafés, sculptures, fountains, and the great Musée du Luxembourg keep the grownups happy too. The public transit is pretty good too, with various metro stations and 3 lines running through the neighborhood, as well as an RER train station that offers direct access to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Overall, this is a simply fabulous neighborhood and you can’t go wrong staying here. The only reason it isn’t my top recommendation is that it’s very expensive (hotels, restaurants, and shops) and I’m aware that it will be a stretch for lots of visitors. Having said that, if you can find a hotel that looks good and is within your budget, don’t hesitate – book it! My recommended hotels L’Hôtel - Oscar Wilde died broke and alone on the ground floor of this small bijoux hotel made over in sumptuous damask and velvet by star decorator Jacques Garcia. Rooms dedicated to period heroines are dressed up like plush Victorian boudoirs. There’s the opulent cocktail bar and a pool in the medieval stone cellar. €620 Hôtel d’Aubusson - A mix of traditional elegance and modern grandeur reigns in this 5-star lodging in the heart of Saint-Germain. The outdoor terrace is a delight in warm weather, and the spa features a pool, steam room and sauna. Jazz nights in the hotel’s famous Café Laurent is a big draw for local Parisians. €550 Hôtel Dame des Arts - Popular among the fashion crowd, there’s a sleek mid-century modern vibe in the rooms, some with balconies. The restaurant doubles as a cocktail bar, and the splendid rooftop bar offers 180° views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. €420 Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs - This sleek Art Deco-inspired 4-star offers stylish rooms with burnished wood and vintage touches, and a gleaming restaurant and cocktail bar that conjure the 1920’s heyday of transatlantic travel. €376 Hôtel des Marronniers - This 36-room hotel set on picturesque rue Jacob is a good budget option, with comfortable (if minuscule) rooms and a leafy courtyard garden that serves as an all-day tearoom and relaxation space. €200 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours 4. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) Best for: Anyone looking for local life and relaxed neighborhood vibes; visitors on longer trips Pros: Lively local area; excellent dining and nightlife; nice clothing shops by local French brands; relatively few tourists; affordable accommodation Cons: No major sights; farther from the city center; no classic Parisian charm Rue de la Roquette in the 11th arr. Photo: Mbzt , CC BY 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Rue de Lappe in the 11th Heading east of the Marais and a bit farther from the absolute center of the city, you’ll quickly reach the 11th Arrondissement. This is a lively and predominantly local area that has a pleasantly youthful and urban air to it. It’s become one of the most desirable areas of Paris to live in recent years, especially for professionals in their 30s and 40s, and it’s very hip and trendy these days (in a good way). The district is pretty sizable, so the parts of it that I’d primarily recommend you consider are the neighborhoods around Place de la Bastille and Rue Oberkampf. Both areas are a little bit hipster-y for sure and they lack the grandeur and classic Parisian charm of more central neighborhoods, but they’re positively brimming with good restaurants, fun but relaxed bars, cool coffee shops, and interesting little boutiques that are mainly stocked with French brands. This is especially true along the lively streets of Rues de Charonne, Roquette, Keller, Oberkampf, and the Marché Aligre. As I just said, these neighborhoods are definitely not as posh or grand as those closer to the Seine or the Louvre, and the architecture isn’t nearly as pretty, but they’re fun, local areas that offer a really nice chance to mix it up with normal Parisians and see how they actually live. You also don’t have to worry about tourist traps here, which is super refreshing when compared to the more popular areas that overflow with them. Hotels tend to be much more affordable here and you can often find very nice ones for much cheaper prices than in more touristy neighborhoods. There is also a nice selection of reasonably-priced, but decent 2 and 3-star hotels, making the 11th an ideal choice for anyone on a budget in addition to visitors who just want to feel like they’re living in “real” Paris for a few days. The tradeoff for the good prices and local atmosphere is that staying here puts you a bit farther away from many of the places you’re likely to want to visit and there aren’t any major sights. With that in mind, staying closer to Place de la Bastille is a good choice if you’re planning to do a fair deal of sightseeing as it’s right on the border with the Marais, somewhere you’ll undoubtedly spend a bit of time in. The rest of the neighborhood is also well connected by metro, so as long as you’re ok using transit, you’ll have no problem getting around. The 11th isn’t the most conventional of choices, but I think it’s a really nice option for urban travelers in their late 20s and 30s and really just about anyone else wanting to stay in a local area that is lively and interesting, but away from the crowds. Because it’s a real residential neighborhood, it’s also ideal for people spending more than just a couple of days in Paris. My recommended hotels Hôtel Fabric Paris Oberkampf - Sleek hotel with design-forward rooms and stylish common areas. Close to loads of great dining and nightlife and cool independent shops. You’re also walking distance to the Marais and some good museums. €300-350 New Hotel République - Very boutique 4-star hotel with nicely renovated rooms that feel classy, but understated. You’re also near lots of good restaurants and bars on Rue Oberkamp (and the metro), but just removed enough for it to be quiet and peaceful. €160-300 Hotel Marais Bastille - Nice little hotel overlooking leafy Bréguet-Sabin Square and just a block away from 3 different metro stops. The rooms are a decent size, breakfast is pretty good, and the staff is helpful. €170-230 Grand Hotel Francais - Somewhat dated but immaculately maintained and with a certain charm, this is always one of my top recommendations for a budget-ish stay in the city center. The location on Rue Voltaire is surrounded by good local restaurants, two metro stops, and convenient things like supermarkets, pharmacies, etc. €110-200 Oh la la Hotel - Pleasant 3-star hotel right next to the Bastille metro stop and a quick walk into the Marais. Place des Voges is just a couple blocks away. The rooms are on the smaller side, but new, modern, and comfy. €100-190 Hotel Paris Voltaire - Somewhat quirky and definitely no-frills, this 2-star hotel is a solid budget option. The colorful rooms are small, but comfortable enough and the location right beside the Voltaire metro stop makes getting around easy. €100-140 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours 5. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement) Best for: Travelers looking for glamour and panache; anyone who wants an super luxurious hotel; high-end shoppers; those prioritizing proximity to the museums Pros: Architecturally grand and impressive; huge number of designer shops; opulent hotels; tons of museums; great transit connections Cons: Very crowded; filled with tourists and office workers; very expensive; can feel impersonal Avenue des Champs Elysées seen from he Arc de Triomhe. Photo: Josh Hallett , CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Grand architecture along the Avenue des Champs Elysées Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. Photo: Celette , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons If you’re looking for a neighborhood that screams Parisian grandeur, this is it. An upscale and stunningly impressive area, the 8th arrondissement is what many people imagine when they picture Paris. Think broad boulevards, elegantly sculpted 19th-century Haussman-era buildings, and gargantuan monuments. Plus shopping - a whole lot of luxury shopping. Located on the Right Bank and a bit to the west of the city center, the defining feature of this neighborhood is the tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Elysées - an enormous stately boulevard that is Paris’s most famous street. It stretches from the towering Arc de Triomphe in the west all the way to Place de la Concorde in the east, butting up against the Tuileries Gardens and almost taking you right to the Louvre. All along that stretch and on its side streets is a dizzying line-up of famous designer stores (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Givenchy, etc.), global high-street brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, 5-star hotels, and a huge selection of ritzy cocktail bars, fine chocolatiers, macaron-makers, and more. This is also where you’ll find the fabled Golden Triangle (formed by connecting Avenues Montaigne and George V with the Champs-Elysées), and the area lives up to the name, offering a true bounty of all things upscale. I know I’m painting a picture of extreme wealth and out-of-reach opulence, but that’s kind of the theme here. This is one of Paris’ richest neighborhoods and the city’s luxury shopping hub, and being close to all of that is the appeal of staying here. For hotels, you have some of the best and most opulent in town, with a collection of absurdly beautiful palace hotels. Accordingly, luxury travelers and those interested in high-end shopping and dining will find themselves right at home. People who are not so interested in those things will probably still enjoy a walk past the designer stores or a splurge-worthy meal, but will be glad to be based elsewhere. This is also a business hub, so it’s not just rich residents and tourists. During the day, you’ll find plenty of working Parisians, mainly in the surrounding offices and out and about grabbing lunch or post-work drinks. People do live here too, and the swanky side streets actually feel fairly lived-in, just by fabulously wealthy people... Mere mortals do also come to the neighborhood and I find myself here regular; often to enjoy a spectacular cocktail at one of the glamorous hotel bars or, a bit more mundanely, to get my computer serviced at the Apple Store. There are other appeals to staying here beyond just luxury amenities - the neighborhood is a genuine cultural powerhouse with many of the city’s best museums: on the eastern end of the Champs-Elysées you’ve got the Grand and Petit Palais, the Palais de l’Élysée, the Hôtel de la Marine (one of my favorite museums in Paris), La Galerie Dior. Head south and you’ll stumble upon the Musée Guimet (for Asian art), the Palais de Tokyo, the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris and the Palais Galliera (Paris’s fashion museum). For fans of the performing arts, there are also a number of good theaters, though shows are usually in French. Finally, when it comes to moving around the city, this is one of the best-served areas for public transit. You’ve got access to no fewer than 5 different subway lines, many of which run through the center of Paris and straight past the other sights and neighborhoods that you’re likely planning to visit. And one final note: should you choose to stay here, I would strongly recommend not staying directly on the Champs Elysées, which is always insanely busy and extremely touristy. It’s far better to find a hotel a few blocks off from there along one of the side streets. My recommended hotels Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s - Even the wealthiest of Parisians jostle for a spot on the 5-star Fouquet’s hidden rooftop garden, which feels a world away from the bustle of the Champs Elysées outside. The rooms are truly ostentatious, there’s an 8,600 square foott spa, and the downstairs brasserie is an institution. $1500 Hôtel Grand Powers - Set on a ritzy corner of the Golden Triangle, this chic 5-star set in a gorgeously restored 1920’s building is an absolute favorite in the neighborhood. Guests get all the luxuries of the area’s grand hotels without the attitude (or the insane prices) with a more intimate feel and perks like fireplaces, a spa and pool, balconies and views. €700 Hôtel Lancaster Paris - A classy 5-star hotel that feels like private home. A stream of film stars have stayed here – from Orson Wells to David Lynch—Marlene Dietrich’s piano still resides in her eponymous suite and it’s still a celebrity favorite. The swank Copper Bay cocktail lounge and courtyard restaurant are both neighborhood standouts. €550 Citizen M Champs Elysée - A big, modern hotel just off the Champs Elysées with fun design objects in common areas (think a bending lamppost light). There’s a rooftop bar with an Eiffel Tower views too! $500 Maison Albar - Right by the Arc de Triomphe in a classic Haussmann-style building, choose this for kitschy-chic rooms in orange, gray and/or blue (some with mirrored ceilings), and a low-key bar restaurant, that opens out onto the street outside. $380 Hôtel Monsieur George - Though only a few minutes’ walk from the Champs-Elysées, this ravishing, cosmopolitan hotel feels a world away. Quiet, discreet, and loaded with charm, it boasts a Michelin-star restaurant with an outdoor garden terrace. All at a third of what you’d pay at most luxury hotels in the neighborhood. €350 Hôtel du Rond Point Champs-Elysées - “Budget” hotels are hard to come by on these tony streets, so it’s no surprise rooms at this welcoming boutique hotel on a quiet street close to the avenue are at a premium. Besides impeccable service, this dapper hotel’s sleek bar, swimming pool and steam room complement the handsome rooms, many with outdoor terraces and views. €230 Hôtel Ekta - This sleek budget hotel’s cozy '60s-inspired rooms evoke the designer Courrèges, with a black-and-white design, bold color-block accents, and lots of mirrors, and their smart layouts make them seem bigger than they are. The pricier suites, some with an outdoor terrace, are still a bargain in this neighborhood. €190 Hôtel Regents Garden - A brilliant budget option about a 10-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. Rooms are small, with bold patterned fabrics. There’s a big, sheltered courtyard garden with tables – a godsend on a hot day. €160+ Other neighborhoods to consider Between the 5 neighborhoods above, I think just about everyone should be able to find somewhere that makes for a good home base in Paris. But there are lots more options of course, so if you’re looking for somewhere different or just want to get an idea for what else is out there, I’ve included 3 other areas to consider below. Grands Boulevards – 9th arr. Looking down the Passage Jouffroy. Photo: Chabe01 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped Just to the north of the Louvre and expanding out from/around the magnificent Opéra Garnier, you have the area known as the Grands Boulevards. An extremely atmospheric and pretty part of the city, a stroll here will take you past the grands magasins (department stores) of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette and under some of Paris’s loveliest covered passages - Jouffroy, Verdeau and Panoramas - each lined with high-end shops and historic restaurants and cafés of mostly high regard. Busy with shoppers and tourists during the day, and theatergoers and people out for night on the town in the evenings, it’s a lively and surprisingly local neighborhood considering its location in the very center of the city. In addition to the grand department stores and pretty architecture, much of what you’ll find here are theaters, concert halls, bars, and restaurants and cafés. As you head north the crowd gets a bit younger and you’ll find an even denser cluster of bars along with many nice, but casual restaurants. In recent years, a number of highly sought-after boutique hotels have opened up here (Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hotel Hana, Adele et Jules, La Fantaisie, etc.), so you also have a very good selection of accommodation and the prices are quite reasonable considering the great location. The main reason I haven’t included the neighborhood as one of my top recommendations is twofold: firstly, I’m mindful that the more youthful and nightlife heavy areas won’t be very attractive for lots of people. They’re fun spots to go for a night out, but you don’t necessarily need or want to have your hotel there. And secondly, not that many people actually live in the neighborhood, so although it’s always busy with workers and shoppers during the day, and the nightlife and restaurant-heavy sections are bustling at night, the more commercial/shopping focused stretches can feel rather too quiet in the evenings. Weekends can be rather dead too, as none of the workers are around. Neither of those is necessarily a dealbreaker, but they’re things to know and consider as you weigh up whether this is a good base for you. Eiffel Tower - 7th and 16th arr. Rue Saint-Dominique looking at the Eiffel Tower. Photo: L-BBE , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped Elegeant Rue de Grenelle. Photo: Mbzt , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons Musée Maillol along Rue de Grenelle in the 7th Lots of people think that staying near the Eiffel Tower is a good idea, but in general, I’ve found that it isn’t. The tower, located in the sprawling 7th arrondissement well to the west of basically everywhere else that you’re going to be visiting, just isn’t centrally located enough to be a very good base. You’re going to come out here at some point of course, but it’s usually a better idea to visit than to stay in the neighborhood. Having said that, it’s a genuinely lovely area, so sightseeing (in)convenience aside, it’s a very nice place to hang out in. Elegant, upscale, and once the favored home of much of France’s nobility, most of what you have here today is an attractive mix of upscale residential areas, government buildings and embassies, and a healthy dose of boutiques, restaurants, and shops. As an area to live in, it’s really quite nice. Central Rue Saint-Dominique , which leads up to the Champ de Mars (the Eiffel Tower’s park), is packed with tempting shops, cafés, patisseries, bars, and lots more, while Rue Cler , which runs off from there, is one of the city’s more scenic market streets. Those are the main spots, but there are plenty of other lively and pleasant areas, so you certainly won’t struggle to find places to eat, drink, or browse if you stay here. There are also a few big sights nearby beyond the Eiffel tower: high-end shoppers should absolutely make the requisite pilgrimage to Le Bon Marché, Paris’s most elegant department store, while the palatial Invalides (where Napleon’s tomb is) and Musée Rodin are steps away to your east. Meanwhile, the Trocadéro is just across the river, as are the Musée de la Marine, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée de l’Homme, the Paris Aquarium, the marvelous Théâtre Nationale de Chaillot, and a collection of some of the city’s best art/fashion museums. Again, like I said above, the main disadvantage to staying here is just that you’ll be too far to walk for most of your sightseeing (around 40 minutes to a lot of the more central areas). There are also only a couple of convenient metro stops, so you’ll only have access to one or two lines and will often have about a 10-minute walk to a station. The Louvre - 1st arr. The gardens of the Palais Royal. Photo: LPLT , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons The beating heart of Paris and an architecturally magnificent area, the Louvre/1st arrondissement overflows with sights and cultural offerings, including the golden constellation that is the Louvre, the Bourse de Commerce-Pinault Collection, the Centre Pompidou (closed for renovations), and the newly opened Fondation Cartier. Not to mention the Tuileries Gardens and Paris’s unrivaled beauty, the Palais Royal gardens. Within easy walking distance of the Opera Garnier, the Champs Elysées, the Marais, and even all the sights and charming neighborhoods across the river on the Left Bank, this is also an incredibly convenient location for sightseeing. There’s a good selection of hotels too, including some surprisingly affordable options alongside the pricier but wonderful Grand Dame hotels like Le Meurice, the Ritz, and the Cheval Blanc. Sounds a bit too good to be true, right? Well, that’s because it is: the drawbacks are that this is an almost exclusively touristic area where no one actually lives. Other than workers during the day, you won’t find any local life here and you’re probably more likely to hear English (or any of a thousand other languages) spoken around you than French. In line with that, aside from some tourist traps and very high-end establishments, there’s little in the way of restaurants, cafés, or nightlife. If you’re willing to entirely sacrifice atmosphere in favor of sightseeing convenience, it’s a great place to stay. You just have to be ok with that tradeoff. ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it I’m aware that loads of guides (largely written by other tourists) list Montmartre as a top area to stay, so I imagine it may be surprising that I’ve listed it as somewhere not to stay. That’s because this is one of Paris’ most polarizing neighborhoods and it’s one that people either adore or absolutely hate. I think it’s a nice place to visit, but not somewhere you should stay. Let me explain why. Montmartre, most famous for being home to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, sits high atop the Butte Montmartre hill in the 18th arrondissement, well to the north of central Paris. One of the highest points in the city, the views here are truly spectacular and there’s an almost village-like atmosphere with a charmingly quaint streetscape. There’s no denying how nice it is to wander amid the cobblestone streets while admiring the little houses covered in ivy, the area’s two windmills, and even an urban vineyard. If that description has you thinking “well that sounds amazing”, hold on. While Montmartre is all the things I just described, it’s also extremely inconveniently located, is borderline overrun by tourists, and not actually very Parisian. I think that it’s the type of area you should visit, but definitely not stay in. Since Montmartre sits high atop a hill, getting between the different parts of the neighborhood requires regular uphill and downhill walks which can be genuinely fatiguing. What might be a charming hilly stroll for a single afternoon can quickly become a drag when you have to do it every morning and evening. And when it comes to sightseeing and getting to the rest of Paris, Montmartre is simply far from everywhere else. It’s well-served by the metro (there are no fewer than 7 metro stations, providing access to 4 different lines), but journey times are still much longer than they would be if staying more centrally. You will routinely have 30-minute metro rides to get wherever you’re going. As one of the last neighborhoods to be annexed into Paris (it was a separate town prior to that), Montmartre is the last bastion of the city that retains its small town feel. If your vision of Paris is an Old-World village with cobblestone streets, pleasant little squares, and streets lined with bakeries, cafés, and restaurants whose tables spill out onto the sidewalk, this is as close as you’ll get to it. It’s nothing like the rest of Paris and doesn’t really represent the city more broadly, but it’s undeniably charming (even if extremely touristy). Of course, the area’s appeal is lost on no one, and the neighborhood is absolute catnip for day trippers, who flock here by the thousands to see the Basilica and wander the streets. Parts of Montmartre get legitimately overrun with visitors - Place du Tertre is the most egregious - and the atmosphere is frequently unpleasantly touristic. In some parts, you will struggle to find anywhere that isn’t a tourist trap. It’s not exclusively a tourist zone and if you wander away from the most popular areas you can find pockets of local life, but you’ll have to seek those places out. If you choose to ignore my advice and want to stay here, know that there are two distinct parts to Montmartre, something that guidebooks often neglect to explain. There’s the upper area around the Sacré-Coeur, which is where you’ll find the hilly cobbled streets and picturesque, Old-World feel. This is what most people think of when they picture the neighborhood. It’s also the most touristy section. Then there’s the lower area , heading south toward Pigalle and the rest of the city, which is much more urban, younger, and livelier. This was once Paris’s notorious red light district, but nowadays it’s a cool neighborhood and a major go-out area that’s filled with trendy bars, modern restaurants (from big brasseries to chic bistros), and nice hotels. The Moulin Rouge is here too, along the always lively Boulevard de Clichy . And in between those two ends of the neighborhood, you have Montmartre’s middle region around the Rue des Abbesses, which is lined with tempting boutiques and cafés. Right nearby, the ancient market street of Rue des Martyrs has lots of interesting shopping as well. This area is both geographically and atmospherically a sort of middle ground between the north and south of the neighborhood. With all this in mind, here’s my overall advice: realistically, I think the neighborhood is just too far removed from the rest of the city to be a convenient base and I find it far too touristy. It’s just not a great place to stay. Ultimately, if you want to experience village life in France, go to a village! My recommended hotels Hôtel Particulier Montmartre - On a hidden lane off a charming cobbled street, this elegant manor surrounded by a private park with towering trees offers five artist-designed suites. Even if you don’t sleep here, stop in for the romantic cocktail bar and restaurant, designed by the iconic Paris decorator Jacques Garcia. €720 Maison Souquet - Housed in a former brothel, this drop-dead gorgeous hotel captures a romantic Belle Époque vibe that takes you back in time in the most over-the-top way. The opulent decor extends from two velvet-clad lounges to your cozy (read tiny) room and basement spa, complete with hammam and pool. €500 Hôtel des Arts - Family-run for three generations, this warm and welcoming hotel, housed in a pretty townhouse and decorated in a lively retro-style, offers exceptional views over the Montmartre streets and rooftops. A hammam and fitness room in the basement a great to come home to. €270 Terrass Hotel - This trendy 4-star is famous for its spacious rooftop bar and restaurant, whose sweeping views of Paris make it popular with visitors and Parisians alike. The rooms - some with balconies and Eiffel Tower views - are small but well equipped. The onsite Nuxe spa is a big plus. €200 Hôtel le Relais Montmartre - This cozy 4-star family-run hotel feels like coming home, with tasteful rooms that privilege comfort and calm. Its location in the heart of the village, and its relatively gentle prices, assure its popularity. €200 Hotel Basss - Among the shops and cafés of Rue des Abbesses, this 3-star boutique hotel offers small, bright, and functional rooms in pale pastel shades—some with lovely views—and a quaint little courtyard terrace. €175 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours Frequently asked questions If you’ve gotten this far and still can’t make up your mind, below I have tried to directly answer some of the major questions people typically have. Best overall area? For visitors on their first trip who will likely be doing a lot of the “conventional” sightseeing and who also want a classic Parisian atmosphere, Le Marais is always my top recommendation. It’s extremely central - walkable to many of the city’s main sights - and exceedingly pretty and atmospheric with narrow and pedestrianized streets. While touristy, it does not feel “overrun” and you’ll find lots of good shopping, a solid dining scene, and countless nice cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers. It just feels quintessentially Parisian. Best neighborhood for families? If you’re traveling with little kids, the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés are always my top recommendations. Both neighborhoods are riverfront (kids love watching the boats), they are both central so you can get most places on foot, and you have a huge green space in each: the Jardins du Luxembourg (for Saint Germain des Pres) and the Jardin des Plantes (for the Latin Quarter). Saint Germain is more central and has better public transit connections but is also a fair deal pricier. Best area for a luxury stay? If you’re looking for an upscale and luxurious Paris experience, then I think your best bet is to stay either along the Champs Elysées (around the Golden Triangle area) or in Saint-Germain-des-Prés . Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a historic literary quarter that’s wealthy but not ostentatiously so, and it’s a real neighborhood with a pleasantly local atmosphere (away from the most touristy parts), great dining, and interesting shops. Hotels are mostly boutique and quite nice. The Champs Elysées , meanwhile, is much grander and more opulent, with lavish palace- hotels, swanky cocktail bars, gourmet restaurants, and true luxury shopping. It has much less of a neighborhood feel though and is a whole lot flashier. Where to stay if you’re on a budget? If you’re on a budget and trying to get the best bang for your buck, I’d recommend looking in the 11th arrondissement , ideally between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation. This is a hip but predominantly local part of town, and it has good dining, shopping, and nightlife in addition to affordable hotels (and lots of apartment rentals). Another nice option, but which I’d mainly recommend for travelers on the younger side of 40, would be Belleville , which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements. Best neighborhood for younger travelers or those looking for nightlife? If you’re young and/or are planning on enjoying a lot of late nights, I recommend the 11th arr., Belleville, or Grands Boulevards/Pigalle. The 11th arrondissement - especially near Place de la Bastille/Rue de la Roquette and to the north along Rue Oberkampf - is a great option for anyone after a cool neighborhood that has good but pleasantly casual nightlife. It’s not exclusively a “go out area”, so has lots of restaurants and shops in addition to the bars. Very international, you’ll see a fair deal of expats and other visitors in addition to younger Parisians. Belleville , which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements has a similar vibe, especially along Rue de Belleville, but less gentrified and with a more gritty atmosphere. It’s also more multicultural, but with immigrant communities as opposed to expats. Grands Boulevards & Pigalle (the 9th arrondissement) are extremely lively and youthful at night and overflowing with bars. The nightlife here is more “intense” than in the two neighborhoods above and it can be quite loud at night near the busy streets. Where to stay for walkability to the big sights? Staying around the Louvre and anywhere in the 1st arrondissement more broadly puts you literally in the very center of the city. It’s a beautiful area and there are big sights all around you often just a few minutes’ walk away. The downside is that it’s extremely expensive, overwhelmingly touristy, and has very little authentic life. Saint-Germain-des-Prés has fewer of its own sights, but it’s smack in the middle of many other places that you’ll be visiting so is super convenient. The Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens, Napoleon’s Tomb, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Mariais and Latin Quarter are all just a short walk away. It’s also just a really nice neighborhood. Finally, the Golden Triangle area of the 8th arrondissement is farther from most of the sights, but many of Paris’s best museums are on its doorstep, so it’s a wonderful base for culture/museum-minded travelers. Best area for moving about the city (best public transit connections)? Paris’s metro system is incredibly comprehensive, so the city doesn’t lack for well-connected neighborhoods, but if I had to pick a few areas that provide truly stellar access, I’d suggest finding a hotel near the following stations: Montparnasse-Bienvenüe , Nation , République , and Châtelet . Each of these provides access to at least 4 different metro lines and they’re also in pleasant residential neighborhoods (except for Châtelet, which is right in the city center). Safest neighborhoods? Honestly, if you’re staying anywhere relatively central, I don’t think that you need to be worried about safety. Paris is very safe overall, and other than pickpocketing or typical tourist scams, you’re unlikely to have any issues while here. The only place I think you’re better off avoiding is the area around the Gare du Nord train station , which can feel quite unpleasant, especially later at night. ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal! City tours by car & foot Hidden gems and local culture Food & market tours Jennifer Ladone An editor and translator by trade, Jennifer swapped New York City for Paris in 2004 and has been living in the French capital ever since. An expert on all things Paris, she’s a regular features writer for France Today magazine, the co-author of the book “Fodor’s Around Paris With Kids”, and the hotel and restaurant reviewer for Fodor’s Paris. https://jenniferladonne.com/
Markdown	[0](https://goaskalocal.com/cart) [Skip to Content](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#page) [Go Ask A Local](https://goaskalocal.com/) [Destinations](https://goaskalocal.com/destinations) [Travel Consultations](https://goaskalocal.com/travel-consultations) [Reviews](https://goaskalocal.com/reviews) [Blog](https://goaskalocal.com/blog) Open Menu Close Menu [Go Ask A Local](https://goaskalocal.com/) [Destinations](https://goaskalocal.com/destinations) [Travel Consultations](https://goaskalocal.com/travel-consultations) [Reviews](https://goaskalocal.com/reviews) [Blog](https://goaskalocal.com/blog) Open Menu Close Menu [Destinations](https://goaskalocal.com/destinations) [Travel Consultations](https://goaskalocal.com/travel-consultations) [Reviews](https://goaskalocal.com/reviews) [Blog](https://goaskalocal.com/blog) # Where to Stay in Paris - Best Neighborhoods & Hotels [France](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/category/France) Jan 29, 2026 Written By [Jennifer Ladone](https://goaskalocal.com/blog?author=696eac9250c02f30d63c8030) Affiliate disclosure: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1746032678320-L70PW3BJX18AXS0HC5NS/unsplash-image-t9Td0zfDTwI.jpg) A trip to Paris is always a big deal and when you’re visiting the most beautiful city in the world, you really do want both your hotel and neighborhood to live up to your expectations. And if you, like most people, are staying here for more than just a couple of days, where you stay can have a huge impact on your trip and overall impression of Paris. But deciding where to stay here is no easy feat, especially given that this fabulous city has more than 2,000 hotels and [285,000](https://www.paris.fr/pages/location-de-meubles-touristiques-3-chiffres-pour-mieux-cerner-ce-phenomene-30572) short-term rentals. That’s a lot of choice - too much if you ask me\! A friend once remarked that deciding where to stay in Paris is like standing in front of a pâtisserie counter with 100 different pastries; everything looks amazing but it’s impossible to choose because there’s just too much to take in. And that’s why I’ve written this guide! In it, I’ve recommended my 5 favorite neighborhoods for visitors and described each of them comprehensively. I’ve broken down the key aspects of each neighborhood and have tried to carefully weigh the pros and cons so that you have a clear picture and can decide which ones are likely to be a good fit for you. I’ve also included some suggested hotels in each at various price points. As a long-time Paris resident (I’ve lived here for over 20 years now), I know the city well and admittedly have very strong opinions on which areas are best for visitors. I’m not just an opinionated local though - I’ve also authored multiple guidebooks on Paris and have spent countless hours wandering the city’s many neighborhoods and visiting hundreds of hotels within them. At the end of the article, I’ve also addressed the “thorny issue” of Montmartre, and have given quick overviews of 3 other neighborhoods that I think are potentially good choices if you don’t find what you’re looking for in my main recommendations. [Click here to see all of our France guides & itineraries](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/Category/France) * Table of Contents - [A few key things to know](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#A_few_key_things_to_know) - [Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Quick_summary_of_my_5_recommended_neighborhoods_) - [Map of my recommended hotels](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Map_of_my_recommended_hotels) - [1\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#1._Le_Marais_$3rd_&_4th_Arrondissement$) - [2\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#2._The_Latin_Quarter_$5th_Arrondissement$) - [3\. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#3._Saint-Germain-des-Pr%C3%A8s_$6th_Arrondissement$) - [4\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#4._Bastille_and_Oberkampf_$11th_Arrondissement$) - [5\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#5._Champs_Elys%C3%A9es_$8th_Arrondissement$) - [Other neighborhoods to consider](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Other_neighborhoods_to_consider) - [Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Montmartre_-_why_I_don%E2%80%99t_recommend_it) - [Frequently asked questions](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Frequently_asked_questions) - [More France travel info](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#More_France_travel_info) Private tours of Paris with Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! [Book A Private Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) Private tours of Paris with Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) [Book A Private Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## A few key things to know** ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/5a76a797-9824-4061-bc53-64e832bf557c/1024px-Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png) Paris’s arrondissements, with the Seine River dividing the city into the left and right banks. Photo: [Hmaglione10](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons Before getting into my neighborhood recommendations, I think it’s useful to provide a quick look at Paris’ layout and geography as that will help you understand everything to follow in this article. Here are the main things to think about: Arrondissements The first thing to know is that Paris is encircled by a ring road, within which are 20 fixed administrative districts called arrondissements (abbreviated to arr.). Numbered 1 through 20, they spiral out in a snail shape starting from the Louvre (1st arr.) and ending in the 20th in the north-east. In general, the higher the number, the farther the district is from the city center. Neighborhoods Because the arrondissements are quite large and have distinct areas within them, they can be further broken down into individual neighborhoods, which have names as opposed to numbers. This is how we Parisians actually think of the city - by neighborhood - as the arrondissements are mostly just used for official governmental purposes. You’ve probably already heard of some of these areas: Montmartre, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain des Près, etc. Unlike the arrondissements, these neighborhoods aren't defined by firm borders, so just be aware that some of them actually straddle multiple arrondissements. I know that’s confusing, so let me explain: places like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre lie squarely within one arrondissement (the 5th and 18th, respectively) while others, like the Marais, straddle multiple. The cool neighborhood of Nation, for example, falls within 3 different arrondissements - the 11th, 12th and 20th. River Seine - Left Bank and Right Bank Next, you’ve got Paris’s principal geographic feature to consider: the River Seine, which cuts through the middle of the city from west to east, creating the Right Bank (Rive Droite) on the northern side, and the Left Bank (Rive Gauche) on the southern side. As you can see on the map above, the right bank covers arrondissements 1-4, 8-12, and 16-20, while the left bank covers 5, 6, 7, and 13-15. Historically, the Left Bank was known for being intellectual and bohemian, while the Right Bank was more business-oriented and bourgeois, but those distinctions don’t hold true at all anymore. They haven’t for many, many years, so don’t listen to anyone who describes them that way. Regarding sights, many of the city’s famous landmarks and attractison are spread out along the length of the River Seine, usually within a quick walk of the water. This means that there’s no one touristic center in which you’ll find all the main sights packed close together. Public transport Paris is a relatively small, walkable capital. On foot, you can cover its entire breadth from east to west - taking in a bucket-list worth of sights along the way - in as little as 2-3 hours. When you don’t want to walk, the city also has one of best metro systems in the world with 16 lines and 303 stations that comprehensively cover just about everywhere that you’ll want to go. As long as you stay near a convenient metro station, you should be able to get most everywhere quite quickly and efficiently. * Explore Paris with our favorite guide\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! [Customize Your Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) Explore Paris with our favorite guide\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) [Customize Your Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods The 5 neighborhoods that I’ve recommended in this guide are all convenient, centrally located, and very pleasant places to spend time. They’re all good bases for first-timers (easy access to the big sights and good transport connections) and have a great selection of hotels. Realistically, you’ll do just fine by picking any of them. However, they offer significantly different atmospheres and certain types of travelers are sure to prefer some over others. So, as you read through this guide, my main piece of advice would be to consider which area you think best aligns with the version of Paris you want to experience and then choose accordingly. No matter what area you choose, make sure that your hotel is close to a metro stop. Paris’ sights are spread widely throughout the city and no area offers walkability to everything, so you will absolutely need to use public transport. If you ignore this advice, you’ll quickly find out why that dreamy hotel you booked was such good value; 20-minute slogs to the metro get old pretty fast. With the basics covered, now let’s take a quick look at my 5 main recommended areas. 1 - Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissement) - red on the map above The Marais is my top recommendation, especially for first-time visitors who will be doing a lot of sightseeing. It’s extremely central, always lively and bustling, and is Paris’ only remaining medieval area with narrow streets and seriously charming architecture. The Picasso museum and the Pompidou center, along with a host of other cultural institutions and sights are right in the neighborhood, and it’s also overflowing with boutique shops, trendy cafés, good bakeries, and bars and restaurants. It’s trendy and tourist-friendly, but also popular with locals. 2 - The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) - purple above Over on the Left Bank and just across the River Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral, this historic students’ quarter is equal parts bohemian, intellectual/academic, and touristy. It’s full of quaint, narrow streets that wind between big monuments like the Panthéon and the Sorbonne university, and there are tons of low-key cafés and affordable restaurants. Given the large student population there’s also very fun nightlife, although it skews a bit young. You have great greenery here as well via the Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin Des Plantes. 3 - Saint-Germain des Près (6th Arrondissement) \- black/grey above As central as you can get, this wealthy and elegant Left Bank area is filled with art galleries, chic shops, and historic literary cafés. It’s very upscale, but in a classy and understated way and is the type of neighborhood you’ll dream about buying yourself a townhouse in (for only \$10,000,000!). If you’ve got a healthy budget and are looking to stay somewhere beautiful, convenient, and well-heeled, this is a fabulous choice. 4 - Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) - yellow above The 11th arrondissement is a young, hip, and lively residential district where you can get a real feel for what actual local life is like in Paris. It’s not as grand as the other areas that I’ve recommended in this guide and it has very few sights, but it’s a great part of the city to just hang out in. It’s not a touristy area and it has a great dining scene, very good nightlife (mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues), and some excellent shopping streets. If you’re looking for neighborhood vibes and to get away from the tourist crowds, I heartily recommend it. 5 - Champs-Élysées (8th Arrondissement) \- blue above A bit to the northwest of the city center, this grand and imposing neighborhood is a very posh part of town that’s teeming with luxury shops, high-end hotels, and swanky cocktail bars. Unabashedly commercial and also a business hub, it can feel a bit impersonal, however. There’s also a host of world-class museums and cultural centers within walking distance, making it the ideal base for luxury travelers who want to mix shopping with culture. * ## Map of my recommended hotels If you’re just looking for some quick suggestions for accommodation, the map below shows all the hotels that I’ve recommended throughout this guide. It includes options across my 5 recommended neighborhoods and at all different price points. Happy (hotel) hunting\! * See Paris like a local, with a local\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! [See All Tours](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) See Paris like a local, with a local\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) [See All Tours](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## 1\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement) Best for: Basically everyone;anyone looking for a great combination of museums/sights, art, shopping, and food Pros: Beautiful and historic area; heavily pedestrianized; tons of sights; good shopping and dining; extremely central; mix of local and touristic feel Cons:** Extremely busy at all times; pretty touristy; accommodation is expensive ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/fac24b95-bcad-4e33-a076-cd60bf5c1326/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Antoine%2C_Paris_19_April_2020.jpg) Rue Saint-Antoine, one of the Marais’ main streets. Photo: [Jeanne Menjoulet from Paris, France](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Antoine,_Paris_19_April_2020.jpg), [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/192fed43-a080-449e-88f5-f84381cd1e15/1024px-P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg) The half-timber houses on Rue François Miron. Photo: [Mbzt](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/eb855ce4-69e6-42c6-b585-8ac9d5477266/1024px-Place_des_Vosges_a%CC%80_Paris.jpg) The lovely and serene Place des Vosges. Photo: [Cette photo a été prise par André ALLIOT.](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Place_des_Vosges_%C3%A0_Paris.jpg), CC0, via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/47c1b4de-0822-42e8-bd5d-5a7b1af33b32/1024px-Rue_des_Rosiers%2C_Paris%2C_France_01.jpg) People strolling about on Rue des Rosiers in the Marais. Photo: [ninara from Helsinki, Finland](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rue_des_Rosiers,_Paris,_France_01.jpg), [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons Always my top recommendation for first-time visitors, the Marais is a beautiful, charming, and historic neighborhood at the very heart of Paris. It has gorgeous architecture, a wealth of pedestrianized streets, and is absolutely filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and a big array of sights and attractions. This is the one neighborhood that really does have it all. Spanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the right bank of the Seine River, in addition to being lovely, the Marais is also super central and exceptionally convenient as a base for sightseeing. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance to many of Paris’s major sights - like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pompidou Center, the Louvre, Île Saint-Louis - and other wonderful neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près and the Latin Quarter just across the river. You also have easy access to public transport via the 5 metro lines that pass through here. For pure convenience, this neighborhood simply cannot be beat. In terms of atmosphere, the streets are always bustling with a nice mix of tourists and locals, who come here mostly to shop at the nice little boutiques. This is the only neighborhood in Paris that retains its medieval architecture and layout, so the streets are narrow and winding and many are pedestrianized, making it the perfect area for leisurely strolls. This is especially true of the less-crowded streets in the Haut Marais (the upper part of the neighborhood farther from the river). Regarding accommodation, most hotels are fairly upscale and pretty expensive, but you can still find bargains. If you like boutique and design-forward properties, you’ll have lots to choose from. For sightseeing, the area’s graceful 17th and 18th-century mansions house a bevy of interesting museums, you have one of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks - the Place des Vosges, and there are a host of charming squares and gardens that are delightfully tucked away out of sight. As you wander the streets, you’ll pass a never-ending array of contemporary art galleries, hip coffee shops, Instagrammable pâtisseries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. There’s not much in the way of “heavy” nightlife, but you do have some very nice wine and cocktail bars. When choosing where to eat, do be aware that there are a fair deal of tourist traps here so you’ll want to do some research rather than deciding at random. Because this is a popular area for dining, many of the better restaurants also require advance booking. Nowhere is truly perfect though, so let me quickly admit that my glowing recommendation comes with a caveat: those who dislike crowds and bustle or anyone who prefers something more off-the-beaten-path should probably look elsewhere. This is Paris’s most popular neighborhood - for Parisians and tourists alike - and its both busy and pretty touristy. It absolutely doesn’t feel overrun by tourism, but you’ll hear as much English and Spanish as you will French. ### My recommended hotels [Le Pavillon de la Reine](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fle-pavillon-de-la-reine.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0__76727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648783%3Bsrpvid%3D94d25f456fdc0587%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d99275d441d044e7bc94f997d-446356_cjevent-4b3cb9f103fc11f181e7010b0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Great for a splurge, this luxury boutique hotel set back from the elegant Place des Vosges has a private mansion feel, with an enclosed ivy-clad garden and a sumptuous décor (think velvet and bold patterns and colors and designer furnishings). The excellent in-hotel restaurant Anne has a Michelin star. €700 [SO/Paris](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fso-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-e8a3a6a927884eacbb6840e7c-446356_cjevent-ae07031df57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\- One of Paris’s “see and be seen” hotels, this beautiful lodging, set a few steps off the Seine river in a quiet residential area in the lower Marais, is catnip to the fashion crowd (and Emily in Paris) for its superb design and luxe rooms. Not to mention the views: these are some of the very best in Paris, right from your room’s picture windows. It’s restaurant Bonnie’s is a great place to take in the views, and the scene, especially from the top-floor cocktail bar and club. €500+ [L’Hôtel du Petit Moulin](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-petit-moulin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0__36273%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648813%3Bsrpvid%3D58bf5f559f8807d5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-ab6e90e3007e4d72befd1f2d8-446356_cjevent-b945482711ab11f181ab00260a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771956489674%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set in a 19th-century bakery with a décor by Christian Lacroix, this quirky 4-star hotel is a favorite of the fashion crowd. Lacroix’s signature riot of patterns and colors reigns here in everything from giant butterfly motifs and leopard-prints to trompe l’oeil theater scenes. The result is great, lively fun. €350 [Hôtel Jules & Jim](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fjules-et-jim.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0__34909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648866%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75f6e4110062e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9f0b9305d93f40909aee82525-446356_cjevent-6a465d6e19d811f1809001160a82b824%26chal_t%3D1772855301230%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 4-star hotel set among lively cafés and bars retains an air of calm, thanks to a double courtyard that acts as a café-cocktail bar for all seasons, with a roaring outdoor fireplace in chilly weather. Spare modern rooms in monochrome whites and greys come with high-tech touches. Book a top-floor room for fab views over the Paris’s silvery rooftops. €230 [Hôtel Boudoir des Muses](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fboudoir-des-muses.fr.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-33eaa295e84942e5ad4bfda5c-446356_cjevent-adfccd66f57e11f0817a01fe0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - It’s hard to resist the romantic fun of this cozy boutique hotel just steps from the Marais’s most fashionable coffee bars, boutiques, you name it. Along with a super-chic room, the velvet-clad cabaret and romantic swimming pool “salons” (bookable for a private hour for two) put the ooh la la in your stay—and so does the affordable price. €220 [Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcaron.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648893%3Bsrpvid%3Db72a5f7c72d60709%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0420340013ec451f9f17fbc08-446356_cjevent-dbf7ebf0331211f1839705f90a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\- Smack in the center of the Marais, this 3-star lodging, named for the Enlightenment-era playwright, is decked out like an 18th-century boudoir, with miles of toile-de-jouy wallpaper and antiques galore. Expect extra-cozy rooms (even for Paris)—a small price for a spot in the beating heart of the city. €200 [Hôtel Emile Le Marais](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Femile-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648915%3Bsrpvid%3D72b45f87567d07a1%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b600a56cbf65404c80e361700-446356_cjevent-abba80084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the St Paul Metro station, this small 2-star hotel has a lot going for it: great location, simple but well-decorated rooms (many with balconies), comfy mattresses and a pleasant little breakfast area. It’s a top choice if you’re on a budget. €190 *** Discover authentic France\! Explore the city better [on tour with Pascal\!](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ![](https://i.imgur.com/uS2cOcu.jpeg) ![](https://i.imgur.com/TbKlqlo.png) 5\.0 rating from traveler reviews [Learn more](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## 2\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) Best for: Younger travelers; families; visitors who want to be central but in a local area Pros: Very central; plenty of affordable bars and restaurants; fun but not over-the-top nightlife; surprisingly reasonable hotel prices Cons: Student-heavy areas are noisy; sub-par public transit; very little shopping; a few areas are very touristy ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/703e3bed-ef6e-47b1-8a2d-754f1bcea34e/place+de+la+sorbonne.jpg) Place de la Sorbonne ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/66684193-6161-4531-91aa-2419091601bd/1024px-Place_de_l%27Estrapade%2C_Paris_5e_2.jpg) Place de l’Estrapade. Photo: [Celette](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Place_de_l%27Estrapade,_Paris_5e_2.jpg), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/3903e478-016b-423e-ae59-a0676f2a5fa4/The+Place+de+la+Sorbonne.jpg) Looking down the Place de la Sorbonne ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/6eb1ac09-950c-48ee-95ca-a2ff7a7665cb/1024px-Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg) The Natural History Museum in the Jardin des Plantes. Photo: [Benh LIEU SONG](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg), [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons Although it’s right in central Paris and just a quick (and lovely) stroll across the River Seine from the Marais, the Latin Quarter feels totally distinct. Whereas I regard the Marais as a great place to spend a few days, I - along with many other Parisians - consider the Latin Quarter a great place to actually live. Leafy and academic-feeling, the neighborhood has been home to the prestigious Sorbonne University for eight centuries and its presence dominates the area. As you wander around, you’ll see young students rubbing elbows with long-time residents, professors heading to and from class, and a fair few visitors making their way between the neat mix of greater and lesser-known monuments found here. I personally love the atmosphere and think it feels very cozy and homey. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to go for a leisurely afternoon stroll, especially when I’m hosting visitors who almost always feel as positively about the area as I do. It’s not nearly as cosmopolitan and exciting as the Marais, but away from the few pockets of touristy areas, it feels residential, local, and lived-in. It has a certain timeless feel to it and it’s easy to picture what life was like here even centuries ago. Beyond the cozy atmosphere, I also appreciate the diversity of its attractions: you’ve got bustling markets, stately monuments, spacious parks (like the wonderful Jardin des Plantes and Luxembourg Gardens), gorgeous old churches, some good museums, and even vestiges of Paris’s Roman past (the arena and Roman baths). It’s a very cool selection of sights and they’re varied enough that almost everyone can find something they’re interested in. For great people watching, I always like to to head to spots like Rue Mouffetard, one of Paris’s oldest and most scenic market streets, and Place de l’Estrapade near the Panthéon - which is sure to be recognizable to “Emily in Paris” fans as her square of residence. The dining scene here is pretty good too, although some of it is student-oriented (think fast casual establishments) and the wine bars and restaurants aren’t usually super trendy. You’ll find lots of good quality sit-down restaurants though, and the atmosphere at them is usually relaxed and mostly local. I find that they’re great spots to settle in for a casual evening of good food, wine, and conversation. Regarding accommodation, hotels reflect the neighborhood character and tend to be smaller and often locally-run. Lots of them are quite nice and have very French design choices, but you also have a good selection of traditional 3-star hotels. One major drawback to staying in the Latin Quarter is that public transport here is rather poor. Although there are three metro lines, there are few stops and you’ll inevitably find that the “nearest” station is always a little further than you want it to be. Because of this, I often refer to the neighborhood as the “Bermuda Triangle of Paris”. It’s not a huge deal since you can walk most places from, but it’s something to consider. Overall, if you’re looking for a neighborhood that is close to the big tourist sights, but slightly removed from the crowds and touristy atmosphere, I think that the Latin Quarter checks all the boxes. ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Pilgrim](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpilgrim-paris1.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-6dfa9a264771477dbe9240c97-446356_cjevent-ae041286f57e11f081cb02220a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a quiet street a block from the river, across from a lovely medieval abbey, this chic boutique hotel with loft-like interiors boasts an interior garden and rooftop bar, a spa with a small pool and sleek, tasteful rooms with rooftop views and plenty of calm. €370 [Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fexcelsior-latin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0__40909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648957%3Bsrpvid%3Db4255f9ce849070d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-aa91c0edd74d4f8cac8fb96a3-446356_cjevent-bc0da5b8d7ba11f08376000f0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - The swimming pool and spa are a big draw at this hip 4-star lodging. Rooms are sleekly decorated and the chic cocktail bar, with an outdoor terrace, offers drinks and snacks all day. €370 [Hôtel Monge](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonge-paris7.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0__43364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648978%3Bsrpvid%3De9825fa7256e07b0%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0fccd8dae12145ca835c2a35e-446356_cjevent-abaff8b54bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in an elegant Haussmannian building near the Arènes de Lutèce and Jardin des Plantes (from where it draws its romantic floral motif), you’ll feel like you’re visiting a private home while staying here. The tearoom, honesty bar, hammam, and massage room make it a seriously relaxing place to return after a day on the town. €330 [Hôtel Jardin de Cluny](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flejardindecluny.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0__30014%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649003%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75fb35a4c0533%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0ccc083f2c3d4926bc94c53f8-446356_cjevent-8a4a3915d78d11f0825900100a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\- A refined nature-inspired décor, stellar location by the Sorbonne, and some adjoining rooms (great for groups) make this a perenially popular choice. €275 [Hôtel des Grands Hommes](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdupantheon.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0__35018%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649031%3Bsrpvid%3D1f8e5fc1bb95077d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-81616591ca6547eb8e082442a-446356_cjevent-3a23bc3e254f11f18333011e0a82b82d%26chal_t%3D1774115811217%26force_referer&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - You’re literally across from the Panthéon at this elegant 3-star hotel. In fact, front rooms offer views straight onto the monument. The classic décor privileges toile de jouy fabrics and antique furniture. A good central spot. €260 [Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-grandes-ecoles.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649088%3Bsrpvid%3Dbc625fcca6d208e7%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1dd836cb9a5442a8a7377c481-446356_cjevent-abb524cc4bc311f0801703f90a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set at the end of a leafy courtyard, this lovely hidden hotel feels like a day in the country, with trees brushing your window and the floral wallpaper lending it a bucolic vibe. Sip your morning coffee under the trees to the chirping of birds. A favorite budget hotel in Paris. €180 * Private tours of Paris with Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! [Book A Private Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) Private tours of Paris with Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) [Book A Private Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## 3\. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement) Best for: Luxury travelers; families with kids; anyone looking for a chic & cosmopolitan neighborhood Pros: Super central location; very pretty; filled with boutiques and art galleries; excellent high-end dining; nearby gardens and green spaces Cons:** Everything is rather high-end; some parts are very touristy; pretty quiet in the evenings ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/bcfebcbc-6220-47dc-9aed-a4b1520114e8/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-56-14.jpg) Rue de Médicis next to the Jardin du Luxembourg ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/26f00e7c-f50b-45b6-898f-50181e9b6779/IMG_1744+Large.jpeg) The corner of Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/36b48a65-391f-4159-918f-936d36190269/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-59-00.jpg) Cour du Commerce St. André ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/d7d9bca1-d9f0-4d8d-a2ec-6e40fc985042/IMG_1747+Large.jpeg) The Odéon Theatre in Saint-Germain Along with the Marais, this is the Paris neighborhood that I spend the most time in, for reasons both practical and indulgent. I personally love it and think it’s an excellent base for wealthier travelers who want to stay in an elegant area that feels quintessentially Parisian. Upscale but lived-in, Saint-Germain possesses a refined but slightly bohemian quality. A real local neighborhood, you’ll find a diverse but distinctly wealthy crowd here, from artists, actors, authors, expats, and “gauche-caviar” intellectuals (look it up!) to Parisian families who have lived in the same sprawling apartments for generations. Despite being walking distance to pretty much everywhere in central Paris, you may find that you barely leave the neighborhood. This is because you have everything at your fingertips right here - great dining and drinking, chic boutique hotels, designer and budget shopping, a few major sights, lots of interesting history, and charm galore. A historic literary quarter, it was here that artists, writers, and philosophers once gathered to argue, drink, and drink some more. Back in the day, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir made the cafés Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore their headquarters, while Hemmingway held court at the Brasserie Lipp. Those establishments are still standing and while they now overflow with tourists, they are undeniably atmospheric and grand. Things have changed quite a bit since the days of Hemingway, but this is still the publishing epicenter of Paris and it continues to feel a bit high-brow and intellectual (in a good way!), with picturesque brasseries and cafés, sprawling sidewalk terraces, and many bookstores and upscale boutiques. The atmosphere is wonderful and it’s a lovely place to while away the day and do some prime people-watching. This is also hands down my favorite shopping neighborhood, as you have many wonderful stores with all kinds of merchandise and it doesn’t feel nearly as teeming and commercial as the Marais or as ostentatiously rich as the Champs-Élysées. Shopping here will still put a dent in your wallet, but you’ll have a great time while blowing your budget\! Irresistible boutiques aside, Saint-Germain’s warren of beautiful narrow streets also harbor great cheese, pastry, and wine shops (especially on the Rue du Bac), eclectic art galleries, sidewalk crêperies, and tons of wine bars and cafés. It’s also Paris’s chocolate center, boasting at least 15 world-class chocolatiers. In short, you will never struggle to find somewhere good to eat or drink while here. I also think this is a great location for families (those who can afford the high hotel prices) due to the proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’ most wonderful parks. Its spacious playground, reflecting pool, marionette theater, and the city’s oldest carousel never fail to enchant kids, while its tennis and pétanque courts, garden cafés, sculptures, fountains, and the great Musée du Luxembourg keep the grownups happy too. The public transit is pretty good too, with various metro stations and 3 lines running through the neighborhood, as well as an RER train station that offers direct access to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Overall, this is a simply fabulous neighborhood and you can’t go wrong staying here. The only reason it isn’t my top recommendation is that it’s very expensive (hotels, restaurants, and shops) and I’m aware that it will be a stretch for lots of visitors. Having said that, if you can find a hotel that looks good and is within your budget, don’t hesitate – book it\! ### My recommended hotels [L’Hôtel](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0__57727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649779%3Bsrpvid%3Df07e6137f1ad0492%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7cfbdc4c101945cca47a2c9c7-446356_cjevent-accb8a5b4bc311f083ae04250a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- Oscar Wilde died broke and alone on the ground floor of this small bijoux hotel made over in sumptuous damask and velvet by star decorator Jacques Garcia. Rooms dedicated to period heroines are dressed up like plush Victorian boudoirs. There’s the opulent cocktail bar and a pool in the medieval stone cellar. €620 [Hôtel d’Aubusson](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fd-aubusson.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0__70364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649905%3Bsrpvid%3D38a46175a1aa017f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c46b7565a5754d9e8e8a54055-446356_cjevent-7443563bfc5811f081ee01390a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A mix of traditional elegance and modern grandeur reigns in this 5-star lodging in the heart of Saint-Germain. The outdoor terrace is a delight in warm weather, and the spa features a pool, steam room and sauna. Jazz nights in the hotel’s famous Café Laurent is a big draw for local Parisians. €550 [Hôtel Dame des Arts](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-dame-des-arts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmap%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0__71509%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649927%3Bsrpvid%3D94d26181eda4047e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c1da9a9b4d8747a8ac4bb1761-446356_cjevent-1f96c1c5c84811f082b101790a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Popular among the fashion crowd, there’s a sleek mid-century modern vibe in the rooms, some with balconies. The restaurant doubles as a cocktail bar, and the splendid rooftop bar offers 180° views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. €420 [Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesgrandsvoyageurs.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0__40045%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649982%3Bsrpvid%3D86ed619d9faa03ae%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a50f65b08d4e47eb98d2ad71c-446356_cjevent-36c1465c0a7611f183a501950a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This sleek Art Deco-inspired 4-star offers stylish rooms with burnished wood and vintage touches, and a gleaming restaurant and cocktail bar that conjure the 1920’s heyday of transatlantic travel. €376 [Hôtel des Marronniers](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-marronniers.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0__43491%3Bsrepoch%3D1749650010%3Bsrpvid%3Dc47b61abe4a008cc%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-99c32349481140589a18d2ed2-446356_cjevent-0539a3dc113b11f18060005c0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771908087773%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 36-room hotel set on picturesque rue Jacob is a good budget option, with comfortable (if minuscule) rooms and a leafy courtyard garden that serves as an all-day tearoom and relaxation space. €200 * Explore Paris with our favorite guide\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! [Customize Your Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) Explore Paris with our favorite guide\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) [Customize Your Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## 4\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) Best for: Anyone looking for local life and relaxed neighborhood vibes; visitors on longer trips Pros: Lively local area; excellent dining and nightlife; nice clothing shops by local French brands; relatively few tourists; affordable accommodation Cons:** No major sights; farther from the city center; no classic Parisian charm ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/dedc1536-89d6-4b75-a738-cc8024837a2d/1024px-F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg) Rue de la Roquette in the 11th arr. Photo: [Mbzt](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg), [CC BY 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/89ddcd6d-a867-4ee1-98ed-4f574a4db53f/PHOTO-2026-01-27-13-19-04.jpg) Rue de Lappe in the 11th ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/eb1e79e7-ba39-4526-8bf2-c8e0a3976cef/1024px-Promenade_Richard-Lenoir_%287514436116%29.jpg) Promenade Richard Lenoir. Photo: [Patrick Nouhailler](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Promenade_Richard-Lenoir_$7514436116$.jpg), [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/159516c6-fb2f-4016-9c2d-ea8507e4011d/1024px-Boulevard_Voltaire%2C_Paris_15_Avril_2014.jpg) Boulevard Voltaire in the 11th. Photo: [Juan Enrique Gilardi from Mar del Plata, Argentina](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Boulevard_Voltaire,_Paris_15_Avril_2014.jpg), [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons Heading east of the Marais and a bit farther from the absolute center of the city, you’ll quickly reach the 11th Arrondissement. This is a lively and predominantly local area that has a pleasantly youthful and urban air to it. It’s become one of the most desirable areas of Paris to live in recent years, especially for professionals in their 30s and 40s, and it’s very hip and trendy these days (in a good way). The district is pretty sizable, so the parts of it that I’d primarily recommend you consider are the neighborhoods around Place de la Bastille and Rue Oberkampf. Both areas are a little bit hipster-y for sure and they lack the grandeur and classic Parisian charm of more central neighborhoods, but they’re positively brimming with good restaurants, fun but relaxed bars, cool coffee shops, and interesting little boutiques that are mainly stocked with French brands. This is especially true along the lively streets of Rues de Charonne, Roquette, Keller, Oberkampf, and the Marché Aligre. As I just said, these neighborhoods are definitely not as posh or grand as those closer to the Seine or the Louvre, and the architecture isn’t nearly as pretty, but they’re fun, local areas that offer a really nice chance to mix it up with normal Parisians and see how they actually live. You also don’t have to worry about tourist traps here, which is super refreshing when compared to the more popular areas that overflow with them. Hotels tend to be much more affordable here and you can often find very nice ones for much cheaper prices than in more touristy neighborhoods. There is also a nice selection of reasonably-priced, but decent 2 and 3-star hotels, making the 11th an ideal choice for anyone on a budget in addition to visitors who just want to feel like they’re living in “real” Paris for a few days. The tradeoff for the good prices and local atmosphere is that staying here puts you a bit farther away from many of the places you’re likely to want to visit and there aren’t any major sights. With that in mind, staying closer to Place de la Bastille is a good choice if you’re planning to do a fair deal of sightseeing as it’s right on the border with the Marais, somewhere you’ll undoubtedly spend a bit of time in. The rest of the neighborhood is also well connected by metro, so as long as you’re ok using transit, you’ll have no problem getting around. The 11th isn’t the most conventional of choices, but I think it’s a really nice option for urban travelers in their late 20s and 30s and really just about anyone else wanting to stay in a local area that is lively and interesting, but away from the crowds. Because it’s a real residential neighborhood, it’s also ideal for people spending more than just a couple of days in Paris. ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Fabric Paris Oberkampf](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-fabric.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b637ee94f7604b8481595ff3f-446356_cjevent-ad53bd88fbb511f0836400a60a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Sleek hotel with design-forward rooms and stylish common areas. Close to loads of great dining and nightlife and cool independent shops. You’re also walking distance to the Marais and some good museums. €300-350 [New Hotel République](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-gabriel-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0fc30c4b7e44fcf9ca08552c-446356_cjevent-b1ccd1c6fbb411f0836400a50a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Very boutique 4-star hotel with nicely renovated rooms that feel classy, but understated. You’re also near lots of good restaurants and bars on Rue Oberkamp (and the metro), but just removed enough for it to be quiet and peaceful. €160-300 [Hotel Marais Bastille](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmeridional.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-38bcc9b5145d4998ac7e45fa3-446356_cjevent-1f576fdafbb211f080a600980a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Nice little hotel overlooking leafy Bréguet-Sabin Square and just a block away from 3 different metro stops. The rooms are a decent size, breakfast is pretty good, and the staff is helpful. €170-230 [Grand Hotel Francais](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelfrancais.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-8561380f88de4962813e0071f-446356_cjevent-f9077d7efbb311f0836400a40a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat dated but immaculately maintained and with a certain charm, this is always one of my top recommendations for a budget-ish stay in the city center. The location on Rue Voltaire is surrounded by good local restaurants, two metro stops, and convenient things like supermarkets, pharmacies, etc. €110-200 [Oh la la Hotel](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Foh-la-la.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-12b75ed1cb334b87933422649-446356_cjevent-1f523201fbb211f083f8009e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- Pleasant 3-star hotel right next to the Bastille metro stop and a quick walk into the Marais. Place des Voges is just a couple blocks away. The rooms are on the smaller side, but new, modern, and comfy. €100-190 [Hotel Paris Voltaire](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis-voltaire.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1ef22d2729d048158f008d6f4-446356_cjevent-f90fbae4fbb311f083a000a00a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat quirky and definitely no-frills, this 2-star hotel is a solid budget option. The colorful rooms are small, but comfortable enough and the location right beside the Voltaire metro stop makes getting around easy. €100-140 * See Paris like a local, with a local\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! [See All Tours](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) See Paris like a local, with a local\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) [See All Tours](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## 5\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement) Best for: Travelers looking for glamour and panache; anyone who wants an super luxurious hotel; high-end shoppers; those prioritizing proximity to the museums Pros: Architecturally grand and impressive; huge number of designer shops; opulent hotels; tons of museums; great transit connections Cons:** Very crowded; filled with tourists and office workers; very expensive; can feel impersonal ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/c1ec3147-7733-4b91-8808-9338289a9853/1024px-Avenue_des_Champs-E%CC%81lyse%CC%81es_July_24%2C_2009_N1.jpg) Avenue des Champs Elysées seen from he Arc de Triomhe. Photo: [Josh Hallett](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Avenue_des_Champs-%C3%89lys%C3%A9es_July_24,_2009_N1.jpg), [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/527d0ec3-703c-46fa-a1f5-8198dd79a333/1024px-Rue_de_Marignan%2C_Paris_11_August_2015.jpg) Rue de Marignan near the Champs Elysées. Photo: [Steven Depolo from Grand Rapids, MI, USA](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rue_de_Marignan,_Paris_11_August_2015.jpg), [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1746561823343-F6V93CYANEH1766JJ9K7/unsplash-image-OoAr4_ZsIcw.jpg) Grand architecture along the Avenue des Champs Elysées ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/d0e10e2a-c815-45d3-bc76-835b97bcc391/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honore%CC%81%2C_Paris_8e.jpg) Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. Photo: [Celette](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honor%C3%A9,_Paris_8e.jpg), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons If you’re looking for a neighborhood that screams Parisian grandeur, this is it. An upscale and stunningly impressive area, the 8th arrondissement is what many people imagine when they picture Paris. Think broad boulevards, elegantly sculpted 19th-century Haussman-era buildings, and gargantuan monuments. Plus shopping - a whole lot of luxury shopping. Located on the Right Bank and a bit to the west of the city center, the defining feature of this neighborhood is the tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Elysées - an enormous stately boulevard that is Paris’s most famous street. It stretches from the towering Arc de Triomphe in the west all the way to Place de la Concorde in the east, butting up against the Tuileries Gardens and almost taking you right to the Louvre. All along that stretch and on its side streets is a dizzying line-up of famous designer stores (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Givenchy, etc.), global high-street brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, 5-star hotels, and a huge selection of ritzy cocktail bars, fine chocolatiers, macaron-makers, and more. This is also where you’ll find the fabled Golden Triangle (formed by connecting Avenues Montaigne and George V with the Champs-Elysées), and the area lives up to the name, offering a true bounty of all things upscale. I know I’m painting a picture of extreme wealth and out-of-reach opulence, but that’s kind of the theme here. This is one of Paris’ richest neighborhoods and the city’s luxury shopping hub, and being close to all of that is the appeal of staying here. For hotels, you have some of the best and most opulent in town, with a collection of absurdly beautiful palace hotels. Accordingly, luxury travelers and those interested in high-end shopping and dining will find themselves right at home. People who are not so interested in those things will probably still enjoy a walk past the designer stores or a splurge-worthy meal, but will be glad to be based elsewhere. This is also a business hub, so it’s not just rich residents and tourists. During the day, you’ll find plenty of working Parisians, mainly in the surrounding offices and out and about grabbing lunch or post-work drinks. People do live here too, and the swanky side streets actually feel fairly lived-in, just by fabulously wealthy people... Mere mortals do also come to the neighborhood and I find myself here regular; often to enjoy a spectacular cocktail at one of the glamorous hotel bars or, a bit more mundanely, to get my computer serviced at the Apple Store. There are otherappeals to staying here beyond just luxury amenities - the neighborhood is a genuine cultural powerhouse with many of the city’s best museums: on the eastern end of the Champs-Elysées you’ve got the Grand and Petit Palais, the Palais de l’Élysée, the Hôtel de la Marine (one of my favorite museums in Paris), La Galerie Dior. Head south and you’ll stumble upon the Musée Guimet (for Asian art), the Palais de Tokyo, the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris and the Palais Galliera (Paris’s fashion museum). For fans of the performing arts, there are also a number of good theaters, though shows are usually in French. Finally, when it comes to moving around the city, this is one of the best-served areas for public transit. You’ve got access to no fewer than 5 different subway lines, many of which run through the center of Paris and straight past the other sights and neighborhoods that you’re likely planning to visit. And one final note: should you choose to stay here, I would strongly recommend not staying directly on the Champs Elysées, which is always insanely busy and extremely touristy. It’s far better to find a hotel a few blocks off from there along one of the side streets. ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Ffouquet-s-barriere-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0__130909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649379%3Bsrpvid%3D54b4606f72ec05e5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b3e96ea49a7b4e3688336127c-446356_cjevent-ac3c43224bc311f081ec03db0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Even the wealthiest of Parisians jostle for a spot on the 5-star Fouquet’s hidden rooftop garden, which feels a world away from the bustle of the Champs Elysées outside. The rooms are truly ostentatious, there’s an 8,600 square foott spa, and the downstairs brasserie is an institution. \$1500 [Hôtel Grand Powers](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fgrand-powers.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-727467c7194c4cdd97c4d4530-446356_cjevent-b9202a3cf57e11f0824302170a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a ritzy corner of the Golden Triangle, this chic 5-star set in a gorgeously restored 1920’s building is an absolute favorite in the neighborhood. Guests get all the luxuries of the area’s grand hotels without the attitude (or the insane prices) with a more intimate feel and perks like fireplaces, a spa and pool, balconies and views. €700 [Hôtel Lancaster Paris](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flancaster-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0__77701%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649528%3Bsrpvid%3Deeac60b8e0490091%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9eaf67c6ef5b4e13989364936-446356_cjevent-092bceb5e63311f080f0073b0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A classy 5-star hotel that feels like private home. A stream of film stars have stayed here – from Orson Wells to David Lynch—Marlene Dietrich’s piano still resides in her eponymous suite and it’s still a celebrity favorite. The swank Copper Bay cocktail lounge and courtyard restaurant are both neighborhood standouts. €550 [Citizen M Champs Elysée](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcitizenm-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827_33091%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649557%3Bsrpvid%3D7c9c60c9a7150332%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-2f0e56be85f846a387acb4ca5-446356_cjevent-ac42ea084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A big, modern hotel just off the Champs Elysées with fun design objects in common areas (think a bending lamppost light). There’s a rooftop bar with an Eiffel Tower views too! \$500 [Maison Albar](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-mac-mahon.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D333958%3Bdest_type%3Dhotel%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0__54545%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649604%3Bsrpvid%3D158560e0acef04a9%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0d4318f1ffc46b58d20467e2-446356_cjevent-ac3b2c584bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the Arc de Triomphe in a classic Haussmann-style building, choose this for kitschy-chic rooms in orange, gray and/or blue (some with mirrored ceilings), and a low-key bar restaurant, that opens out onto the street outside. \$380 [Hôtel Monsieur George](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonsieur-george-amp-spa-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-08609bc0d1e34c0485dcf5189-446356_cjevent-ae04921bf57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Though only a few minutes’ walk from the Champs-Elysées, this ravishing, cosmopolitan hotel feels a world away. Quiet, discreet, and loaded with charm, it boasts a Michelin-star restaurant with an outdoor garden terrace. All at a third of what you’d pay at most luxury hotels in the neighborhood. €350 [Hôtel du Rond Point Champs-Elysées](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-rond-point-des-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a8c0fd0f44434c8895ef26d3d-446356_cjevent-ae0bbb6bf57e11f0824502160a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- “Budget” hotels are hard to come by on these tony streets, so it’s no surprise rooms at this welcoming boutique hotel on a quiet street close to the avenue are at a premium. Besides impeccable service, this dapper hotel’s sleek bar, swimming pool and steam room complement the handsome rooms, many with outdoor terraces and views. €230 [Hôtel Ekta](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fekta.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7c9a30f4e0a44bdf8ce7969a2-446356_cjevent-ae0e07e4f57e11f083fd01ff0a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- This sleek budget hotel’s cozy '60s-inspired rooms evoke the designer Courrèges, with a black-and-white design, bold color-block accents, and lots of mirrors, and their smart layouts make them seem bigger than they are. The pricier suites, some with an outdoor terrace, are still a bargain in this neighborhood. €190 [Hôtel Regents Garden](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpremierregentsgarden.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0__40818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649652%3Bsrpvid%3Dbefc60f63f7d053a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9c2b4ffb1eb34ed5a08b3a5c1-446356_cjevent-0f9943cbe8c811f0826009c00a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A brilliant budget option about a 10-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. Rooms are small, with bold patterned fabrics. There’s a big, sheltered courtyard garden with tables – a godsend on a hot day. €160+ *** Discover authentic France\! Explore the city better [on tour with Pascal\!](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ![](https://i.imgur.com/uS2cOcu.jpeg) ![](https://i.imgur.com/TbKlqlo.png) 5\.0 rating from traveler reviews [Learn more](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## Other neighborhoods to consider Between the 5 neighborhoods above, I think just about everyone should be able to find somewhere that makes for a good home base in Paris. But there are lots more options of course, so if you’re looking for somewhere different or just want to get an idea for what else is out there, I’ve included 3 other areas to consider below. ### Grands Boulevards – 9th arr. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/b7c6a3eb-6dbc-48e9-977d-1cc7ac7fcfb4/1024px-Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg) Looking down the Passage Jouffroy. Photo: [Chabe01](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/af3dafcb-b402-442a-b546-e202d5517977/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Montmartre%2C_26_May_2012.jpg) Rue du Faubourg-Montmartre. Photo: [Guillaume Speurt from Vilnius, Lithuania](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Montmartre,_26_May_2012.jpg), [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped Just to the north of the Louvre and expanding out from/around the magnificent Opéra Garnier, you have the area known as the Grands Boulevards. An extremely atmospheric and pretty part of the city, a stroll here will take you past the *grands magasins(department stores) of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette and under some of Paris’s loveliest covered passages* - Jouffroy, Verdeau and Panoramas - each lined with high-end shops and historic restaurants and cafés of mostly high regard. Busy with shoppers and tourists during the day, and theatergoers and people out for night on the town in the evenings, it’s a lively and surprisingly local neighborhood considering its location in the very center of the city. In addition to the grand department stores and pretty architecture, much of what you’ll find here are theaters, concert halls, bars, and restaurants and cafés. As you head north the crowd gets a bit younger and you’ll find an even denser cluster of bars along with many nice, but casual restaurants. In recent years, a number of highly sought-after boutique hotels have opened up here (Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hotel Hana, Adele et Jules, La Fantaisie, etc.), so you also have a very good selection of accommodation and the prices are quite reasonable considering the great location. The main reason I haven’t included the neighborhood as one of my top recommendations is twofold: firstly, I’m mindful that the more youthful and nightlife heavy areas won’t be very attractive for lots of people. They’re fun spots to go for a night out, but you don’t necessarily need or want to have your hotel there. And secondly, not that many people actually live in the neighborhood, so although it’s always busy with workers and shoppers during the day, and the nightlife and restaurant-heavy sections are bustling at night, the more commercial/shopping focused stretches can feel rather too quiet in the evenings. Weekends can be rather dead too, as none of the workers are around. Neither of those is necessarily a dealbreaker, but they’re things to know and consider as you weigh up whether this is a good base for you. ### Eiffel Tower - 7th and 16th arr. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1e25983c-e302-4529-a8cb-6efc12469de1/1024px-Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg) Rue Saint-Dominique looking at the Eiffel Tower. Photo: [L-BBE](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg), [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1dc356bc-8188-4f21-80ec-2a9ed6cbcdc1/1024px-P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.jpeg) Elegeant Rue de Grenelle. Photo: [Mbzt](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.JPG), [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/34877717-fba0-473f-8970-d1e43bc3b1be/IMG_1752+Large.jpg) Musée Maillol along Rue de Grenelle in the 7th Lots of people think that staying near the Eiffel Tower is a good idea, but in general, I’ve found that it isn’t. The tower, located in the sprawling 7th arrondissement well to the west of basically everywhere else that you’re going to be visiting, just isn’t centrally located enough to be a very good base. You’re going to come out here at some point of course, but it’s usually a better idea to visit than to stay in the neighborhood. Having said that, it’s a genuinely lovely area, so sightseeing (in)convenience aside, it’s a very nice place to hang out in. Elegant, upscale, and once the favored home of much of France’s nobility, most of what you have here today is an attractive mix of upscale residential areas, government buildings and embassies, and a healthy dose of boutiques, restaurants, and shops. As an area to live in, it’s really quite nice. Central Rue Saint-Dominique, which leads up to the Champ de Mars (the Eiffel Tower’s park), is packed with tempting shops, cafés, patisseries, bars, and lots more, while Rue Cler, which runs off from there, is one of the city’s more scenic market streets. Those are the main spots, but there are plenty of other lively and pleasant areas, so you certainly won’t struggle to find places to eat, drink, or browse if you stay here. There are also a few big sights nearby beyond the Eiffel tower: high-end shoppers should absolutely make the requisite pilgrimage to Le Bon Marché, Paris’s most elegant department store, while the palatial Invalides (where Napleon’s tomb is) and Musée Rodin are steps away to your east. Meanwhile, the Trocadéro is just across the river, as are the Musée de la Marine, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée de l’Homme, the Paris Aquarium, the marvelous Théâtre Nationale de Chaillot, and a collection of some of the city’s best art/fashion museums. Again, like I said above, the main disadvantage to staying here is just that you’ll be too far to walk for most of your sightseeing (around 40 minutes to a lot of the more central areas). There are also only a couple of convenient metro stops, so you’ll only have access to one or two lines and will often have about a 10-minute walk to a station. ### The Louvre - 1st arr. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/225f0e75-8404-42bd-80e9-c4d2d0a859ac/1024px-Paris_75001_Rue_de_Rivoli_no_47_towards_west_2141209.jpg) Looking down Rue de Rivoli. Photo: [Jorge Láscar from Melbourne, Australia](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Paris_75001_Rue_de_Rivoli_no_47_towards_west_2141209.jpg), [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/94f75a52-88dd-41fd-bb52-e1a8e32da24f/1024px-Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.jpeg) The gardens of the Palais Royal. Photo: [LPLT](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.JPG), [CC BY-SA 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons The beating heart of Paris and an architecturally magnificent area, the Louvre/1st arrondissement overflows with sights and cultural offerings, including the golden constellation that is the Louvre, the Bourse de Commerce-Pinault Collection, the Centre Pompidou (closed for renovations), and the newly opened Fondation Cartier. Not to mention the Tuileries Gardens and Paris’s unrivaled beauty, the Palais Royal gardens. Within easy walking distance of the Opera Garnier, the Champs Elysées, the Marais, and even all the sights and charming neighborhoods across the river on the Left Bank, this is also an incredibly convenient location for sightseeing. There’s a good selection of hotels too, including some surprisingly affordable options alongside the pricier but wonderful Grand Dame hotels like Le Meurice, the Ritz, and the Cheval Blanc. Sounds a bit too good to be true, right? Well, that’s because it is: the drawbacks are that this is an almost exclusively touristic area where no one actually lives. Other than workers during the day, you won’t find any local life here and you’re probably more likely to hear English (or any of a thousand other languages) spoken around you than French. In line with that, aside from some tourist traps and very high-end establishments, there’s little in the way of restaurants, cafés, or nightlife. If you’re willing to entirely sacrifice atmosphere in favor of sightseeing convenience, it’s a great place to stay. You just have to be ok with that tradeoff. * Private tours of Paris with Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! [Book A Private Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) Private tours of Paris with Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) [Book A Private Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it** ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/fb7508d0-e6ee-4c7d-8f78-fc1e407bc369/1024px-Chez_Euge%CC%80ne%2C_Place_du_Tertre%2C_Paris_15_March_2010.jpg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/98ed81f3-ce3f-4251-812f-eb97bcd4b15a/1024px-Sacre_Coeur_1.jpeg) The Sacre Coeur basilica. Photo: [Superchilum](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sacre_Coeur_1.JPG), [CC BY-SA 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/4d493f46-f137-4f78-b4f0-e267a2b1bd6f/1024px-Rue_des_Abbesses%2C_Paris_24_August_2013.jpg) Shop-filled Rue des Abesses. Photo: [flightlog](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rue_des_Abbesses,_Paris_24_August_2013.jpg), [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/8ce4485a-62a0-4a5a-8c46-69b6ed7add0e/1024px-Montmartre_hills_to_taverns%2C_Paris_20_May_2014.jpg) A typically pretty but hilly street in Montmartre. Photo: [David McSpadden from Daly City, United States](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Montmartre_hills_to_taverns,_Paris_20_May_2014.jpg), [CC BY 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons I’m aware that loads of guides (largely written by other tourists) list Montmartre as a top area to stay, so I imagine it may be surprising that I’ve listed it as somewhere *notto stay. That’s because this is one of Paris’ most polarizing neighborhoods and it’s one that people either adore or absolutely hate. I think it’s a nice place to visit, but not somewhere you should stay. Let me explain why. Montmartre, most famous for being home to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, sits high atop the Butte Montmartre hill in the 18th arrondissement, well to the north of central Paris. One of the highest points in the city, the views here are truly spectacular and there’s an almost village-like atmosphere with a charmingly quaint streetscape. There’s no denying how nice it is to wander amid the cobblestone streets while admiring the little houses covered in ivy, the area’s two windmills, and even an urban vineyard. If that description has you thinking “well that sounds amazing”, hold on. While Montmartre is all the things I just described, it’s also extremely inconveniently located, is borderline overrun by tourists, and not actually very Parisian. I think that it’s the type of area you should visit, but definitely not stay in. Since Montmartre sits high atop a hill, getting between the different parts of the neighborhood requires regular uphill and downhill walks which can be genuinely fatiguing. What might be a charming hilly stroll for a single afternoon can quickly become a drag when you have to do it every morning and evening. And when it comes to sightseeing and getting to the rest of Paris, Montmartre is simply far from everywhere else. It’s well-served by the metro (there are no fewer than 7 metro stations, providing access to 4 different lines), but journey times are still much longer than they would be if staying more centrally. You will routinely have 30-minute metro rides to get wherever you’re going. As one of the last neighborhoods to be annexed into Paris (it was a separate town prior to that), Montmartre is the last bastion of the city that retains its small town feel. If your vision of Paris is an Old-World village with cobblestone streets, pleasant little squares, and streets lined with bakeries, cafés, and restaurants whose tables spill out onto the sidewalk, this is as close as you’ll get to it. It’s nothing like the rest of Paris and doesn’t really represent the city more broadly, but it’s undeniably charming (even if extremely touristy). Of course, the area’s appeal is lost on no one, and the neighborhood is absolute catnip for day trippers, who flock here by the thousands to see the Basilica and wander the streets. Parts of Montmartre get legitimately overrun with visitors - Place du Tertre* is the most egregious - and the atmosphere is frequently unpleasantly touristic. In some parts, you will struggle to find anywhere that isn’t a tourist trap. It’s not exclusively a tourist zone and if you wander away from the most popular areas you can find pockets of local life, but you’ll have to seek those places out. If you choose to ignore my advice and want to stay here, know that there are two distinct parts to Montmartre, something that guidebooks often neglect to explain. There’s the upper area around the Sacré-Coeur, which is where you’ll find the hilly cobbled streets and picturesque, Old-World feel. This is what most people think of when they picture the neighborhood. It’s also the most touristy section. Then there’s the lower area, heading south toward Pigalle and the rest of the city, which is much more urban, younger, and livelier. This was once Paris’s notorious red light district, but nowadays it’s a cool neighborhood and a major go-out area that’s filled with trendy bars, modern restaurants (from big brasseries to chic bistros), and nice hotels. The Moulin Rouge is here too, along the always lively Boulevard de Clichy. And in between those two ends of the neighborhood, you have Montmartre’s middle region around the Rue des Abbesses, which is lined with tempting boutiques and cafés. Right nearby, the ancient market street of Rue des Martyrs has lots of interesting shopping as well. This area is both geographically and atmospherically a sort of middle ground between the north and south of the neighborhood. With all this in mind, here’s my overall advice: realistically, I think the neighborhood is just too far removed from the rest of the city to be a convenient base and I find it far too touristy. It’s just not a great place to stay. Ultimately, if you want to experience village life in France, go to a village\! ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Particulier Montmartre](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparticulier-montmartre-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649147%3Bsrpvid%3D00a55ffca2740998%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-f9ae08bcd4ab4e1da5cee57c3-446356_cjevent-ac3fc9644bc311f08176044e0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - On a hidden lane off a charming cobbled street, this elegant manor surrounded by a private park with towering trees offers five artist-designed suites. Even if you don’t sleep here, stop in for the romantic cocktail bar and restaurant, designed by the iconic Paris decorator Jacques Garcia. €720 [Maison Souquet](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmaison-souquet.htm%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-983a483c33f4445e88331b70c-446356_cjevent-d2f3bad6f57e11f083ef020a0a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in a former brothel, this drop-dead gorgeous hotel captures a romantic Belle Époque vibe that takes you back in time in the most over-the-top way. The opulent decor extends from two velvet-clad lounges to your cozy (read tiny) room and basement spa, complete with hammam and pool. €500 [Hôtel des Arts](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesarts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0__21432%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649321%3Bsrpvid%3Dd503604b12c60b62%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-19f7bb3461aa41fda49610ab1-446356_cjevent-ac3f992b4bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Family-run for three generations, this warm and welcoming hotel, housed in a pretty townhouse and decorated in a lively retro-style, offers exceptional views over the Montmartre streets and rooftops. A hammam and fitness room in the basement a great to come home to. €270 [Terrass Hotel](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fterrass-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649256%3Bsrpvid%3D8f4d60327c80034f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c13626b38e8c410bbc7d0c6b9-446356_cjevent-ac3f56594bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This trendy 4-star is famous for its spacious rooftop bar and restaurant, whose sweeping views of Paris make it popular with visitors and Parisians alike. The rooms - some with balconies and Eiffel Tower views - are small but well equipped. The onsite Nuxe spa is a big plus. €200 [Hôtel le Relais Montmartre](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelrelaismontmartre.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0__18720%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649281%3Bsrpvid%3D38a4603e0f4a082a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0c24cc6f387c4d39a22abaf8f-446356_cjevent-fa12a81f0a7011f183a301aa0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This cozy 4-star family-run hotel feels like coming home, with tasteful rooms that privilege comfort and calm. Its location in the heart of the village, and its relatively gentle prices, assure its popularity. €200 [Hotel Basss](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcomfort-paris-18eme-sacre-coeur.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0__20818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649344%3Bsrpvid%3D005a605df0f10673%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-5d3fe2345c814a2a8ae72d927-446356_cjevent-ac428aaa4bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Among the shops and cafés of Rue des Abbesses, this 3-star boutique hotel offers small, bright, and functional rooms in pale pastel shades—some with lovely views—and a quaint little courtyard terrace. €175 * Explore Paris with our favorite guide\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! [Customize Your Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) Explore Paris with our favorite guide\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) [Customize Your Tour](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## Frequently asked questions If you’ve gotten this far and still can’t make up your mind, below I have tried to directly answer some of the major questions people typically have. Best overall area? For visitors on their first trip who will likely be doing a lot of the “conventional” sightseeing and who also want a classic Parisian atmosphere, Le Marais is always my top recommendation.It’s extremely central - walkable to many of the city’s main sights - and exceedingly pretty and atmospheric with narrow and pedestrianized streets. While touristy, it does not feel “overrun” and you’ll find lots of good shopping, a solid dining scene, and countless nice cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers. It just feels quintessentially Parisian. Best neighborhood for families? If you’re traveling with little kids, the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés are always my top recommendations. Both neighborhoods are riverfront (kids love watching the boats), they are both central so you can get most places on foot, and you have a huge green space in each: the Jardins du Luxembourg (for Saint Germain des Pres) and the Jardin des Plantes (for the Latin Quarter).Saint Germain is more central and has better public transit connections but is also a fair deal pricier. Best area for a luxury stay? If you’re looking for an upscale and luxurious Paris experience, then I think your best bet is to stay either along the Champs Elysées (around the Golden Triangle area) or in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a historic literary quarter that’s wealthy but not ostentatiously so, and it’s a real neighborhood with a pleasantly local atmosphere (away from the most touristy parts), great dining, and interesting shops. Hotels are mostly boutique and quite nice. The Champs Elysées, meanwhile, is much grander and more opulent, with lavish palace- hotels, swanky cocktail bars, gourmet restaurants, and true luxury shopping. It has much less of a neighborhood feel though and is a whole lot flashier. Where to stay if you’re on a budget? If you’re on a budget and trying to get the best bang for your buck, I’d recommend looking in the 11th arrondissement, ideally between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation. This is a hip but predominantly local part of town, and it has good dining, shopping, and nightlife in addition to affordable hotels (and lots of apartment rentals). Another nice option, but which I’d mainly recommend for travelers on the younger side of 40, would be Belleville, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements. Best neighborhood for younger travelers or those looking for nightlife? If you’re young and/or are planning on enjoying a lot of late nights, I recommend the 11th arr., Belleville, or Grands Boulevards/Pigalle. The 11th arrondissement - especially near Place de la Bastille/Rue de la Roquette and to the north along Rue Oberkampf - is a great option for anyone after a cool neighborhood that has good but pleasantly casual nightlife. It’s not exclusively a “go out area”, so has lots of restaurants and shops in addition to the bars. Very international, you’ll see a fair deal of expats and other visitors in addition to younger Parisians. Belleville, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements has a similar vibe, especially along Rue de Belleville, but less gentrified and with a more gritty atmosphere. It’s also more multicultural, but with immigrant communities as opposed to expats. Grands Boulevards & Pigalle (the 9th arrondissement) are extremely lively and youthful at night and overflowing with bars. The nightlife here is more “intense” than in the two neighborhoods above and it can be quite loud at night near the busy streets. Where to stay for walkability to the big sights? Staying around the Louvre and anywhere in the 1st arrondissement more broadly puts you literally in the very center of the city. It’s a beautiful area and there are big sights all around you often just a few minutes’ walk away. The downside is that it’s extremely expensive, overwhelmingly touristy, and has very little authentic life. Saint-Germain-des-Prés has fewer of its own sights, but it’s smack in the middle of many other places that you’ll be visiting so is super convenient. The Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens, Napoleon’s Tomb, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Mariais and Latin Quarter are all just a short walk away. It’s also just a really nice neighborhood. Finally, the Golden Triangle area of the 8th arrondissement is farther from most of the sights, but many of Paris’s best museums are on its doorstep, so it’s a wonderful base for culture/museum-minded travelers. Best area for moving about the city (best public transit connections)? Paris’s metro system is incredibly comprehensive, so the city doesn’t lack for well-connected neighborhoods, but if I had to pick a few areasthat provide truly stellar access, I’d suggest finding a hotel near the following stations: Montparnasse-Bienvenüe, Nation, République, and Châtelet. Each of these provides access to at least 4 different metro lines and they’re also in pleasant residential neighborhoods (except for Châtelet, which is right in the city center). Safest neighborhoods? Honestly, if you’re staying anywhere relatively central, I don’t think that you need to be worried about safety. Paris is very safe overall, and other than pickpocketing or typical tourist scams, you’re unlikely to have any issues while here. The only place I think you’re better off avoiding is the area around the Gare du Nord train station, which can feel quite unpleasant, especially later at night. * See Paris like a local, with a local\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! [See All Tours](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) See Paris like a local, with a local\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) [See All Tours](https://goaskalocal.com/guided-tours-of-paris-with-pascal) ## More France travel info For more advice on planning a trip to the French Riviera, check out some of our other guides and itineraries\! - [Where to stay in Lyon](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-lyon) - [Where to stay in Nice](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-nice) - [French Riviera travel guide](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/french-riviera-travel-guide) - [7-Day French Riviera itinerary](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/one-week-french-riviera-itinerary) - [Guide to Menton](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/menton-france-travel-guide) - [Guide to Cannes](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/cannes-france-travel-guide) - [Guide to Monaco](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/travel-guide-to-monaco) - [Guide to St. Tropez](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/saint-tropez-travel-guide) - [Guide to Antibes](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/antibes-france-travel-guide) * Plan Your Itinerary with Pascal ![Pascal](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/7ad8626b-7663-4a07-8c01-0a8d63899bb5/France+travel+expert+and+trip+planner+Pascal+in+the+french+riviera.jpeg?format=300px) Pascal ★★★★★ 5/5 from 10+ reviews - Chat with a local expert - 1 hour planning session - Get pro tips & hidden gems - Personalized to you [Learn More](https://goaskalocal.com/france-travel?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=consultation-button) France Travel Guides [![French Riviera Travel Guide](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1555341498-528ba188ef0e?q=80&w=300&auto=format&fit=crop&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D) French Riviera Travel Guide See Guide](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/french-riviera-travel-guide?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=tour-link) [![Guide to St. Tropez](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1574873902578-dfd54e973cb0?q=80&w=300&auto=format&fit=crop&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D) Guide to St. Tropez See Guide](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/saint-tropez-travel-guide?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=tour-link) [![Guide to Cannes](https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1660153175339-96db278d5057?q=80&w=300&auto=format&fit=crop&ixlib=rb-4.0.3&ixid=M3wxMjA3fDB8MHxwaG90by1wYWdlfHx8fGVufDB8fHx8fA%3D%3D) Guide to Cannes See Guide](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/cannes-france-travel-guide?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=tour-link) [See All Guides](https://goaskalocal.com/france-travel?utm_term=nice-france-travel-guide&utm_source=gaal&utm_medium=blog-sidebar&utm_campaign=blog&utm_content=explore-button) [![]() Jennifer Ladone](https://goaskalocal.com/blog?author=696eac9250c02f30d63c8030) An editor and translator by trade, Jennifer swapped New York City for Paris in 2004 and has been living in the French capital ever since. An expert on all things Paris, she’s a regular features writer for France Today magazine, the co-author of the book “Fodor’s Around Paris With Kids”, and the hotel and restaurant reviewer for Fodor’s Paris. <https://jenniferladonne.com/> [Previous Previous A Local’s Favorite Things to do in Santiago, Chile](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/things-to-do-in-santiago-chile) [Next Next Rio de Janeiro Itinerary - 5 Days in the Marvelous City](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/rio-de-janeiro-itinerary) [About](https://goaskalocal.com/about) [Contact](https://goaskalocal.com/contact) [Follow](https://instagram.com/goaskalocal) Have questions? Contact us! We’re based in Storrs, CT. \+1 860 321 0777 [ops@goaskalocal.com](mailto:ops@goaskalocal.com?) 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Readable Markdown	Where to Stay in Paris - Best Neighborhoods & Hotels Affiliate disclosure: some of the links in this article are affiliate links. If you book using one of them, we’ll earn a small commission. All of our info is free to read and free of ads, so we appreciate it\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1746032678320-L70PW3BJX18AXS0HC5NS/unsplash-image-t9Td0zfDTwI.jpg) A trip to Paris is always a big deal and when you’re visiting the most beautiful city in the world, you really do want both your hotel and neighborhood to live up to your expectations. And if you, like most people, are staying here for more than just a couple of days, where you stay can have a huge impact on your trip and overall impression of Paris. But deciding where to stay here is no easy feat, especially given that this fabulous city has more than 2,000 hotels and [285,000](https://www.paris.fr/pages/location-de-meubles-touristiques-3-chiffres-pour-mieux-cerner-ce-phenomene-30572) short-term rentals. That’s a lot of choice - too much if you ask me\! A friend once remarked that deciding where to stay in Paris is like standing in front of a pâtisserie counter with 100 different pastries; everything looks amazing but it’s impossible to choose because there’s just too much to take in. And that’s why I’ve written this guide! In it, I’ve recommended my 5 favorite neighborhoods for visitors and described each of them comprehensively. I’ve broken down the key aspects of each neighborhood and have tried to carefully weigh the pros and cons so that you have a clear picture and can decide which ones are likely to be a good fit for you. I’ve also included some suggested hotels in each at various price points. As a long-time Paris resident (I’ve lived here for over 20 years now), I know the city well and admittedly have very strong opinions on which areas are best for visitors. I’m not just an opinionated local though - I’ve also authored multiple guidebooks on Paris and have spent countless hours wandering the city’s many neighborhoods and visiting hundreds of hotels within them. At the end of the article, I’ve also addressed the “thorny issue” of Montmartre, and have given quick overviews of 3 other neighborhoods that I think are potentially good choices if you don’t find what you’re looking for in my main recommendations. Table of Contents - [A few key things to know](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#A_few_key_things_to_know) - [Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Quick_summary_of_my_5_recommended_neighborhoods_) - [Map of my recommended hotels](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Map_of_my_recommended_hotels) - [1\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#1._Le_Marais_$3rd_&_4th_Arrondissement$) - [2\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#2._The_Latin_Quarter_$5th_Arrondissement$) - [3\. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#3._Saint-Germain-des-Pr%C3%A8s_$6th_Arrondissement$) - [4\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#4._Bastille_and_Oberkampf_$11th_Arrondissement$) - [5\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement)](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#5._Champs_Elys%C3%A9es_$8th_Arrondissement$) - [Other neighborhoods to consider](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Other_neighborhoods_to_consider) - [Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Montmartre_-_why_I_don%E2%80%99t_recommend_it) - [Frequently asked questions](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#Frequently_asked_questions) - [More France travel info](https://goaskalocal.com/blog/where-to-stay-in-paris#More_France_travel_info) ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) A few key things to know ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/5a76a797-9824-4061-bc53-64e832bf557c/1024px-Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png) Paris’s arrondissements, with the Seine River dividing the city into the left and right banks. Photo: [Hmaglione10](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Les_arrondissements_de_paris.png), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons Before getting into my neighborhood recommendations, I think it’s useful to provide a quick look at Paris’ layout and geography as that will help you understand everything to follow in this article. Here are the main things to think about: Arrondissements The first thing to know is that Paris is encircled by a ring road, within which are 20 fixed administrative districts called arrondissements (abbreviated to arr.). Numbered 1 through 20, they spiral out in a snail shape starting from the Louvre (1st arr.) and ending in the 20th in the north-east. In general, the higher the number, the farther the district is from the city center. Neighborhoods Because the arrondissements are quite large and have distinct areas within them, they can be further broken down into individual neighborhoods, which have names as opposed to numbers. This is how we Parisians actually think of the city - by neighborhood - as the arrondissements are mostly just used for official governmental purposes. You’ve probably already heard of some of these areas: Montmartre, the Marais, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain des Près, etc. Unlike the arrondissements, these neighborhoods aren't defined by firm borders, so just be aware that some of them actually straddle multiple arrondissements. I know that’s confusing, so let me explain: places like the Latin Quarter and Montmartre lie squarely within one arrondissement (the 5th and 18th, respectively) while others, like the Marais, straddle multiple. The cool neighborhood of Nation, for example, falls within 3 different arrondissements - the 11th, 12th and 20th. River Seine - Left Bank and Right Bank Next, you’ve got Paris’s principal geographic feature to consider: the River Seine, which cuts through the middle of the city from west to east, creating the Right Bank (Rive Droite) on the northern side, and the Left Bank (Rive Gauche) on the southern side. As you can see on the map above, the right bank covers arrondissements 1-4, 8-12, and 16-20, while the left bank covers 5, 6, 7, and 13-15. Historically, the Left Bank was known for being intellectual and bohemian, while the Right Bank was more business-oriented and bourgeois, but those distinctions don’t hold true at all anymore. They haven’t for many, many years, so don’t listen to anyone who describes them that way. Regarding sights, many of the city’s famous landmarks and attractison are spread out along the length of the River Seine, usually within a quick walk of the water. This means that there’s no one touristic center in which you’ll find all the main sights packed close together. Public transport Paris is a relatively small, walkable capital. On foot, you can cover its entire breadth from east to west - taking in a bucket-list worth of sights along the way - in as little as 2-3 hours. When you don’t want to walk, the city also has one of best metro systems in the world with 16 lines and 303 stations that comprehensively cover just about everywhere that you’ll want to go. As long as you stay near a convenient metro station, you should be able to get most everywhere quite quickly and efficiently. ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) Quick summary of my 5 recommended neighborhoods The 5 neighborhoods that I’ve recommended in this guide are all convenient, centrally located, and very pleasant places to spend time. They’re all good bases for first-timers (easy access to the big sights and good transport connections) and have a great selection of hotels. Realistically, you’ll do just fine by picking any of them. However, they offer significantly different atmospheres and certain types of travelers are sure to prefer some over others. So, as you read through this guide, my main piece of advice would be to consider which area you think best aligns with the version of Paris you want to experience and then choose accordingly. No matter what area you choose, make sure that your hotel is close to a metro stop. Paris’ sights are spread widely throughout the city and no area offers walkability to everything, so you will absolutely need to use public transport. If you ignore this advice, you’ll quickly find out why that dreamy hotel you booked was such good value; 20-minute slogs to the metro get old pretty fast. With the basics covered, now let’s take a quick look at my 5 main recommended areas. 1 - Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissement) - red on the map above The Marais is my top recommendation, especially for first-time visitors who will be doing a lot of sightseeing. It’s extremely central, always lively and bustling, and is Paris’ only remaining medieval area with narrow streets and seriously charming architecture. The Picasso museum and the Pompidou center, along with a host of other cultural institutions and sights are right in the neighborhood, and it’s also overflowing with boutique shops, trendy cafés, good bakeries, and bars and restaurants. It’s trendy and tourist-friendly, but also popular with locals. 2 - The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) - purple above Over on the Left Bank and just across the River Seine from Notre Dame Cathedral, this historic students’ quarter is equal parts bohemian, intellectual/academic, and touristy. It’s full of quaint, narrow streets that wind between big monuments like the Panthéon and the Sorbonne university, and there are tons of low-key cafés and affordable restaurants. Given the large student population there’s also very fun nightlife, although it skews a bit young. You have great greenery here as well via the Luxembourg Gardens and Jardin Des Plantes. 3 - Saint-Germain des Près (6th Arrondissement) \- black/grey above As central as you can get, this wealthy and elegant Left Bank area is filled with art galleries, chic shops, and historic literary cafés. It’s very upscale, but in a classy and understated way and is the type of neighborhood you’ll dream about buying yourself a townhouse in (for only \$10,000,000!). If you’ve got a healthy budget and are looking to stay somewhere beautiful, convenient, and well-heeled, this is a fabulous choice. 4 - Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) - yellow above The 11th arrondissement is a young, hip, and lively residential district where you can get a real feel for what actual local life is like in Paris. It’s not as grand as the other areas that I’ve recommended in this guide and it has very few sights, but it’s a great part of the city to just hang out in. It’s not a touristy area and it has a great dining scene, very good nightlife (mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues), and some excellent shopping streets. If you’re looking for neighborhood vibes and to get away from the tourist crowds, I heartily recommend it. 5 - Champs-Élysées (8th Arrondissement) \- blue above A bit to the northwest of the city center, this grand and imposing neighborhood is a very posh part of town that’s teeming with luxury shops, high-end hotels, and swanky cocktail bars. Unabashedly commercial and also a business hub, it can feel a bit impersonal, however. There’s also a host of world-class museums and cultural centers within walking distance, making it the ideal base for luxury travelers who want to mix shopping with culture. ## Map of my recommended hotels If you’re just looking for some quick suggestions for accommodation, the map below shows all the hotels that I’ve recommended throughout this guide. It includes options across my 5 recommended neighborhoods and at all different price points. Happy (hotel) hunting\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) ## 1\. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissement) Best for: Basically everyone;anyone looking for a great combination of museums/sights, art, shopping, and food Pros: Beautiful and historic area; heavily pedestrianized; tons of sights; good shopping and dining; extremely central; mix of local and touristic feel Cons: Extremely busy at all times; pretty touristy; accommodation is expensive ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/fac24b95-bcad-4e33-a076-cd60bf5c1326/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Antoine%2C_Paris_19_April_2020.jpg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/192fed43-a080-449e-88f5-f84381cd1e15/1024px-P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg) The half-timber houses on Rue François Miron. Photo: [Mbzt](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:P1260305_Paris_IV_rue_Francois-Miron_n11-13_rwk.jpg), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/eb855ce4-69e6-42c6-b585-8ac9d5477266/1024px-Place_des_Vosges_a%CC%80_Paris.jpg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/47c1b4de-0822-42e8-bd5d-5a7b1af33b32/1024px-Rue_des_Rosiers%2C_Paris%2C_France_01.jpg) Always my top recommendation for first-time visitors, the Marais is a beautiful, charming, and historic neighborhood at the very heart of Paris. It has gorgeous architecture, a wealth of pedestrianized streets, and is absolutely filled with shops, restaurants, cafes, and a big array of sights and attractions. This is the one neighborhood that really does have it all. Spanning the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the right bank of the Seine River, in addition to being lovely, the Marais is also super central and exceptionally convenient as a base for sightseeing. Staying here puts you within easy walking distance to many of Paris’s major sights - like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pompidou Center, the Louvre, Île Saint-Louis - and other wonderful neighborhoods such as Saint-Germain-des-Près and the Latin Quarter just across the river. You also have easy access to public transport via the 5 metro lines that pass through here. For pure convenience, this neighborhood simply cannot be beat. In terms of atmosphere, the streets are always bustling with a nice mix of tourists and locals, who come here mostly to shop at the nice little boutiques. This is the only neighborhood in Paris that retains its medieval architecture and layout, so the streets are narrow and winding and many are pedestrianized, making it the perfect area for leisurely strolls. This is especially true of the less-crowded streets in the Haut Marais (the upper part of the neighborhood farther from the river). Regarding accommodation, most hotels are fairly upscale and pretty expensive, but you can still find bargains. If you like boutique and design-forward properties, you’ll have lots to choose from. For sightseeing, the area’s graceful 17th and 18th-century mansions house a bevy of interesting museums, you have one of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks - the Place des Vosges, and there are a host of charming squares and gardens that are delightfully tucked away out of sight. As you wander the streets, you’ll pass a never-ending array of contemporary art galleries, hip coffee shops, Instagrammable pâtisseries, fashion boutiques, vintage shops, and trendy restaurants. There’s not much in the way of “heavy” nightlife, but you do have some very nice wine and cocktail bars. When choosing where to eat, do be aware that there are a fair deal of tourist traps here so you’ll want to do some research rather than deciding at random. Because this is a popular area for dining, many of the better restaurants also require advance booking. Nowhere is truly perfect though, so let me quickly admit that my glowing recommendation comes with a caveat: those who dislike crowds and bustle or anyone who prefers something more off-the-beaten-path should probably look elsewhere. This is Paris’s most popular neighborhood - for Parisians and tourists alike - and its both busy and pretty touristy. It absolutely doesn’t feel overrun by tourism, but you’ll hear as much English and Spanish as you will French. ### My recommended hotels [Le Pavillon de la Reine](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fle-pavillon-de-la-reine.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D28327705_123057913_0_2_0__76727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648783%3Bsrpvid%3D94d25f456fdc0587%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d99275d441d044e7bc94f997d-446356_cjevent-4b3cb9f103fc11f181e7010b0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Great for a splurge, this luxury boutique hotel set back from the elegant Place des Vosges has a private mansion feel, with an enclosed ivy-clad garden and a sumptuous décor (think velvet and bold patterns and colors and designer furnishings). The excellent in-hotel restaurant Anne has a Michelin star. €700 [SO/Paris](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fso-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-e8a3a6a927884eacbb6840e7c-446356_cjevent-ae07031df57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\- One of Paris’s “see and be seen” hotels, this beautiful lodging, set a few steps off the Seine river in a quiet residential area in the lower Marais, is catnip to the fashion crowd (and Emily in Paris) for its superb design and luxe rooms. Not to mention the views: these are some of the very best in Paris, right from your room’s picture windows. It’s restaurant Bonnie’s is a great place to take in the views, and the scene, especially from the top-floor cocktail bar and club. €500+ [L’Hôtel du Petit Moulin](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-petit-moulin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D48455401_341719623_0_2_0__36273%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648813%3Bsrpvid%3D58bf5f559f8807d5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-ab6e90e3007e4d72befd1f2d8-446356_cjevent-b945482711ab11f181ab00260a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771956489674%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set in a 19th-century bakery with a décor by Christian Lacroix, this quirky 4-star hotel is a favorite of the fashion crowd. Lacroix’s signature riot of patterns and colors reigns here in everything from giant butterfly motifs and leopard-prints to trompe l’oeil theater scenes. The result is great, lively fun. €350 [Hôtel Jules & Jim](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fjules-et-jim.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33894603_147373779_2_2_0__34909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648866%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75f6e4110062e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9f0b9305d93f40909aee82525-446356_cjevent-6a465d6e19d811f1809001160a82b824%26chal_t%3D1772855301230%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 4-star hotel set among lively cafés and bars retains an air of calm, thanks to a double courtyard that acts as a café-cocktail bar for all seasons, with a roaring outdoor fireplace in chilly weather. Spare modern rooms in monochrome whites and greys come with high-tech touches. Book a top-floor room for fab views over the Paris’s silvery rooftops. €230 [Hôtel Boudoir des Muses](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fboudoir-des-muses.fr.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-33eaa295e84942e5ad4bfda5c-446356_cjevent-adfccd66f57e11f0817a01fe0a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - It’s hard to resist the romantic fun of this cozy boutique hotel just steps from the Marais’s most fashionable coffee bars, boutiques, you name it. Along with a super-chic room, the velvet-clad cabaret and romantic swimming pool “salons” (bookable for a private hour for two) put the ooh la la in your stay—and so does the affordable price. €220 [Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcaron.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648893%3Bsrpvid%3Db72a5f7c72d60709%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0420340013ec451f9f17fbc08-446356_cjevent-dbf7ebf0331211f1839705f90a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\- Smack in the center of the Marais, this 3-star lodging, named for the Enlightenment-era playwright, is decked out like an 18th-century boudoir, with miles of toile-de-jouy wallpaper and antiques galore. Expect extra-cozy rooms (even for Paris)—a small price for a spot in the beating heart of the city. €200 [Hôtel Emile Le Marais](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Femile-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648915%3Bsrpvid%3D72b45f87567d07a1%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b600a56cbf65404c80e361700-446356_cjevent-abba80084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the St Paul Metro station, this small 2-star hotel has a lot going for it: great location, simple but well-decorated rooms (many with balconies), comfy mattresses and a pleasant little breakfast area. It’s a top choice if you’re on a budget. €190 ## 2\. The Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement) Best for: Younger travelers; families; visitors who want to be central but in a local area Pros: Very central; plenty of affordable bars and restaurants; fun but not over-the-top nightlife; surprisingly reasonable hotel prices Cons: Student-heavy areas are noisy; sub-par public transit; very little shopping; a few areas are very touristy ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/703e3bed-ef6e-47b1-8a2d-754f1bcea34e/place+de+la+sorbonne.jpg) Place de la Sorbonne ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/3903e478-016b-423e-ae59-a0676f2a5fa4/The+Place+de+la+Sorbonne.jpg) Looking down the Place de la Sorbonne ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/6eb1ac09-950c-48ee-95ca-a2ff7a7665cb/1024px-Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg) The Natural History Museum in the Jardin des Plantes. Photo: [Benh LIEU SONG](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Paris_75005_Grande_Galerie_de_l%27Evolution_20070804.jpg), [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons Although it’s right in central Paris and just a quick (and lovely) stroll across the River Seine from the Marais, the Latin Quarter feels totally distinct. Whereas I regard the Marais as a great place to spend a few days, I - along with many other Parisians - consider the Latin Quarter a great place to actually live. Leafy and academic-feeling, the neighborhood has been home to the prestigious Sorbonne University for eight centuries and its presence dominates the area. As you wander around, you’ll see young students rubbing elbows with long-time residents, professors heading to and from class, and a fair few visitors making their way between the neat mix of greater and lesser-known monuments found here. I personally love the atmosphere and think it feels very cozy and homey. It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods to go for a leisurely afternoon stroll, especially when I’m hosting visitors who almost always feel as positively about the area as I do. It’s not nearly as cosmopolitan and exciting as the Marais, but away from the few pockets of touristy areas, it feels residential, local, and lived-in. It has a certain timeless feel to it and it’s easy to picture what life was like here even centuries ago. Beyond the cozy atmosphere, I also appreciate the diversity of its attractions: you’ve got bustling markets, stately monuments, spacious parks (like the wonderful Jardin des Plantes and Luxembourg Gardens), gorgeous old churches, some good museums, and even vestiges of Paris’s Roman past (the arena and Roman baths). It’s a very cool selection of sights and they’re varied enough that almost everyone can find something they’re interested in. For great people watching, I always like to to head to spots like Rue Mouffetard, one of Paris’s oldest and most scenic market streets, and Place de l’Estrapade near the Panthéon - which is sure to be recognizable to “Emily in Paris” fans as her square of residence. The dining scene here is pretty good too, although some of it is student-oriented (think fast casual establishments) and the wine bars and restaurants aren’t usually super trendy. You’ll find lots of good quality sit-down restaurants though, and the atmosphere at them is usually relaxed and mostly local. I find that they’re great spots to settle in for a casual evening of good food, wine, and conversation. Regarding accommodation, hotels reflect the neighborhood character and tend to be smaller and often locally-run. Lots of them are quite nice and have very French design choices, but you also have a good selection of traditional 3-star hotels. One major drawback to staying in the Latin Quarter is that public transport here is rather poor. Although there are three metro lines, there are few stops and you’ll inevitably find that the “nearest” station is always a little further than you want it to be. Because of this, I often refer to the neighborhood as the “Bermuda Triangle of Paris”. It’s not a huge deal since you can walk most places from, but it’s something to consider. Overall, if you’re looking for a neighborhood that is close to the big tourist sights, but slightly removed from the crowds and touristy atmosphere, I think that the Latin Quarter checks all the boxes. ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Pilgrim](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpilgrim-paris1.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-6dfa9a264771477dbe9240c97-446356_cjevent-ae041286f57e11f081cb02220a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a quiet street a block from the river, across from a lovely medieval abbey, this chic boutique hotel with loft-like interiors boasts an interior garden and rooftop bar, a spa with a small pool and sleek, tasteful rooms with rooftop views and plenty of calm. €370 [Hôtel Grand Coeur Latin](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fexcelsior-latin.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D54145114_408776295_2_2_0__40909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648957%3Bsrpvid%3Db4255f9ce849070d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-aa91c0edd74d4f8cac8fb96a3-446356_cjevent-bc0da5b8d7ba11f08376000f0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - The swimming pool and spa are a big draw at this hip 4-star lodging. Rooms are sleekly decorated and the chic cocktail bar, with an outdoor terrace, offers drinks and snacks all day. €370 [Hôtel Monge](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonge-paris7.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D177362502_409839772_0_2_0__43364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749648978%3Bsrpvid%3De9825fa7256e07b0%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0fccd8dae12145ca835c2a35e-446356_cjevent-abaff8b54bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in an elegant Haussmannian building near the Arènes de Lutèce and Jardin des Plantes (from where it draws its romantic floral motif), you’ll feel like you’re visiting a private home while staying here. The tearoom, honesty bar, hammam, and massage room make it a seriously relaxing place to return after a day on the town. €330 [Hôtel Jardin de Cluny](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flejardindecluny.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5001314_94105325_2_2_0__30014%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649003%3Bsrpvid%3D5cb75fb35a4c0533%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0ccc083f2c3d4926bc94c53f8-446356_cjevent-8a4a3915d78d11f0825900100a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris)\- A refined nature-inspired décor, stellar location by the Sorbonne, and some adjoining rooms (great for groups) make this a perenially popular choice. €275 [Hôtel des Grands Hommes](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdupantheon.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5068311_91902323_0_2_0__35018%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649031%3Bsrpvid%3D1f8e5fc1bb95077d%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-81616591ca6547eb8e082442a-446356_cjevent-3a23bc3e254f11f18333011e0a82b82d%26chal_t%3D1774115811217%26force_referer&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - You’re literally across from the Panthéon at this elegant 3-star hotel. In fact, front rooms offer views straight onto the monument. The classic décor privileges toile de jouy fabrics and antique furniture. A good central spot. €260 [Hôtel des Grandes Ecoles](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-grandes-ecoles.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649088%3Bsrpvid%3Dbc625fcca6d208e7%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1dd836cb9a5442a8a7377c481-446356_cjevent-abb524cc4bc311f0801703f90a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set at the end of a leafy courtyard, this lovely hidden hotel feels like a day in the country, with trees brushing your window and the floral wallpaper lending it a bucolic vibe. Sip your morning coffee under the trees to the chirping of birds. A favorite budget hotel in Paris. €180 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) ## 3\. Saint-Germain-des-Près (6th Arrondissement) Best for: Luxury travelers; families with kids; anyone looking for a chic & cosmopolitan neighborhood Pros: Super central location; very pretty; filled with boutiques and art galleries; excellent high-end dining; nearby gardens and green spaces Cons: Everything is rather high-end; some parts are very touristy; pretty quiet in the evenings ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/bcfebcbc-6220-47dc-9aed-a4b1520114e8/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-56-14.jpg) Rue de Médicis next to the Jardin du Luxembourg ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/26f00e7c-f50b-45b6-898f-50181e9b6779/IMG_1744+Large.jpeg) The corner of Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/36b48a65-391f-4159-918f-936d36190269/PHOTO-2026-01-27-14-59-00.jpg) Cour du Commerce St. André ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/d7d9bca1-d9f0-4d8d-a2ec-6e40fc985042/IMG_1747+Large.jpeg) The Odéon Theatre in Saint-Germain Along with the Marais, this is the Paris neighborhood that I spend the most time in, for reasons both practical and indulgent. I personally love it and think it’s an excellent base for wealthier travelers who want to stay in an elegant area that feels quintessentially Parisian. Upscale but lived-in, Saint-Germain possesses a refined but slightly bohemian quality. A real local neighborhood, you’ll find a diverse but distinctly wealthy crowd here, from artists, actors, authors, expats, and “gauche-caviar” intellectuals (look it up!) to Parisian families who have lived in the same sprawling apartments for generations. Despite being walking distance to pretty much everywhere in central Paris, you may find that you barely leave the neighborhood. This is because you have everything at your fingertips right here - great dining and drinking, chic boutique hotels, designer and budget shopping, a few major sights, lots of interesting history, and charm galore. A historic literary quarter, it was here that artists, writers, and philosophers once gathered to argue, drink, and drink some more. Back in the day, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir made the cafés Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore their headquarters, while Hemmingway held court at the Brasserie Lipp. Those establishments are still standing and while they now overflow with tourists, they are undeniably atmospheric and grand. Things have changed quite a bit since the days of Hemingway, but this is still the publishing epicenter of Paris and it continues to feel a bit high-brow and intellectual (in a good way!), with picturesque brasseries and cafés, sprawling sidewalk terraces, and many bookstores and upscale boutiques. The atmosphere is wonderful and it’s a lovely place to while away the day and do some prime people-watching. This is also hands down my favorite shopping neighborhood, as you have many wonderful stores with all kinds of merchandise and it doesn’t feel nearly as teeming and commercial as the Marais or as ostentatiously rich as the Champs-Élysées. Shopping here will still put a dent in your wallet, but you’ll have a great time while blowing your budget\! Irresistible boutiques aside, Saint-Germain’s warren of beautiful narrow streets also harbor great cheese, pastry, and wine shops (especially on the Rue du Bac), eclectic art galleries, sidewalk crêperies, and tons of wine bars and cafés. It’s also Paris’s chocolate center, boasting at least 15 world-class chocolatiers. In short, you will never struggle to find somewhere good to eat or drink while here. I also think this is a great location for families (those who can afford the high hotel prices) due to the proximity to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of Paris’ most wonderful parks. Its spacious playground, reflecting pool, marionette theater, and the city’s oldest carousel never fail to enchant kids, while its tennis and pétanque courts, garden cafés, sculptures, fountains, and the great Musée du Luxembourg keep the grownups happy too. The public transit is pretty good too, with various metro stations and 3 lines running through the neighborhood, as well as an RER train station that offers direct access to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Overall, this is a simply fabulous neighborhood and you can’t go wrong staying here. The only reason it isn’t my top recommendation is that it’s very expensive (hotels, restaurants, and shops) and I’m aware that it will be a stretch for lots of visitors. Having said that, if you can find a hotel that looks good and is within your budget, don’t hesitate – book it\! ### My recommended hotels [L’Hôtel](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5338002_195815584_0_2_0__57727%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649779%3Bsrpvid%3Df07e6137f1ad0492%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7cfbdc4c101945cca47a2c9c7-446356_cjevent-accb8a5b4bc311f083ae04250a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- Oscar Wilde died broke and alone on the ground floor of this small bijoux hotel made over in sumptuous damask and velvet by star decorator Jacques Garcia. Rooms dedicated to period heroines are dressed up like plush Victorian boudoirs. There’s the opulent cocktail bar and a pool in the medieval stone cellar. €620 [Hôtel d’Aubusson](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fd-aubusson.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5739102_88984826_0_2_0__70364%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649905%3Bsrpvid%3D38a46175a1aa017f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c46b7565a5754d9e8e8a54055-446356_cjevent-7443563bfc5811f081ee01390a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A mix of traditional elegance and modern grandeur reigns in this 5-star lodging in the heart of Saint-Germain. The outdoor terrace is a delight in warm weather, and the spa features a pool, steam room and sauna. Jazz nights in the hotel’s famous Café Laurent is a big draw for local Parisians. €550 [Hôtel Dame des Arts](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-dame-des-arts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmap%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D18598720_372884317_2_2_0__71509%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649927%3Bsrpvid%3D94d26181eda4047e%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c1da9a9b4d8747a8ac4bb1761-446356_cjevent-1f96c1c5c84811f082b101790a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Popular among the fashion crowd, there’s a sleek mid-century modern vibe in the rooms, some with balconies. The restaurant doubles as a cocktail bar, and the splendid rooftop bar offers 180° views of Paris, with the Eiffel Tower in the distance. €420 [Hôtel des Grands Voyageurs](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesgrandsvoyageurs.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5104228_94272224_2_42_0__40045%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649982%3Bsrpvid%3D86ed619d9faa03ae%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a50f65b08d4e47eb98d2ad71c-446356_cjevent-36c1465c0a7611f183a501950a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This sleek Art Deco-inspired 4-star offers stylish rooms with burnished wood and vintage touches, and a gleaming restaurant and cocktail bar that conjure the 1920’s heyday of transatlantic travel. €376 [Hôtel des Marronniers](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdes-marronniers.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%2CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5800103_94277591_0_2_0__43491%3Bsrepoch%3D1749650010%3Bsrpvid%3Dc47b61abe4a008cc%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-99c32349481140589a18d2ed2-446356_cjevent-0539a3dc113b11f18060005c0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287%26chal_t%3D1771908087773%26force_referer%3D&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This 36-room hotel set on picturesque rue Jacob is a good budget option, with comfortable (if minuscule) rooms and a leafy courtyard garden that serves as an all-day tearoom and relaxation space. €200 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) ## 4\. Bastille and Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) Best for: Anyone looking for local life and relaxed neighborhood vibes; visitors on longer trips Pros: Lively local area; excellent dining and nightlife; nice clothing shops by local French brands; relatively few tourists; affordable accommodation Cons: No major sights; farther from the city center; no classic Parisian charm ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/dedc1536-89d6-4b75-a738-cc8024837a2d/1024px-F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg) Rue de la Roquette in the 11th arr. Photo: [Mbzt](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:F7149_Paris_11e_rue_de_la_Roquette_rwk.jpg), [CC BY 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/89ddcd6d-a867-4ee1-98ed-4f574a4db53f/PHOTO-2026-01-27-13-19-04.jpg) Rue de Lappe in the 11th ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/eb1e79e7-ba39-4526-8bf2-c8e0a3976cef/1024px-Promenade_Richard-Lenoir_%287514436116%29.jpg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/159516c6-fb2f-4016-9c2d-ea8507e4011d/1024px-Boulevard_Voltaire%2C_Paris_15_Avril_2014.jpg) Heading east of the Marais and a bit farther from the absolute center of the city, you’ll quickly reach the 11th Arrondissement. This is a lively and predominantly local area that has a pleasantly youthful and urban air to it. It’s become one of the most desirable areas of Paris to live in recent years, especially for professionals in their 30s and 40s, and it’s very hip and trendy these days (in a good way). The district is pretty sizable, so the parts of it that I’d primarily recommend you consider are the neighborhoods around Place de la Bastille and Rue Oberkampf. Both areas are a little bit hipster-y for sure and they lack the grandeur and classic Parisian charm of more central neighborhoods, but they’re positively brimming with good restaurants, fun but relaxed bars, cool coffee shops, and interesting little boutiques that are mainly stocked with French brands. This is especially true along the lively streets of Rues de Charonne, Roquette, Keller, Oberkampf, and the Marché Aligre. As I just said, these neighborhoods are definitely not as posh or grand as those closer to the Seine or the Louvre, and the architecture isn’t nearly as pretty, but they’re fun, local areas that offer a really nice chance to mix it up with normal Parisians and see how they actually live. You also don’t have to worry about tourist traps here, which is super refreshing when compared to the more popular areas that overflow with them. Hotels tend to be much more affordable here and you can often find very nice ones for much cheaper prices than in more touristy neighborhoods. There is also a nice selection of reasonably-priced, but decent 2 and 3-star hotels, making the 11th an ideal choice for anyone on a budget in addition to visitors who just want to feel like they’re living in “real” Paris for a few days. The tradeoff for the good prices and local atmosphere is that staying here puts you a bit farther away from many of the places you’re likely to want to visit and there aren’t any major sights. With that in mind, staying closer to Place de la Bastille is a good choice if you’re planning to do a fair deal of sightseeing as it’s right on the border with the Marais, somewhere you’ll undoubtedly spend a bit of time in. The rest of the neighborhood is also well connected by metro, so as long as you’re ok using transit, you’ll have no problem getting around. The 11th isn’t the most conventional of choices, but I think it’s a really nice option for urban travelers in their late 20s and 30s and really just about anyone else wanting to stay in a local area that is lively and interesting, but away from the crowds. Because it’s a real residential neighborhood, it’s also ideal for people spending more than just a couple of days in Paris. ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Fabric Paris Oberkampf](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-fabric.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b637ee94f7604b8481595ff3f-446356_cjevent-ad53bd88fbb511f0836400a60a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Sleek hotel with design-forward rooms and stylish common areas. Close to loads of great dining and nightlife and cool independent shops. You’re also walking distance to the Marais and some good museums. €300-350 [New Hotel République](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotel-gabriel-paris.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0fc30c4b7e44fcf9ca08552c-446356_cjevent-b1ccd1c6fbb411f0836400a50a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Very boutique 4-star hotel with nicely renovated rooms that feel classy, but understated. You’re also near lots of good restaurants and bars on Rue Oberkamp (and the metro), but just removed enough for it to be quiet and peaceful. €160-300 [Hotel Marais Bastille](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmeridional.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-38bcc9b5145d4998ac7e45fa3-446356_cjevent-1f576fdafbb211f080a600980a82b839%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Nice little hotel overlooking leafy Bréguet-Sabin Square and just a block away from 3 different metro stops. The rooms are a decent size, breakfast is pretty good, and the staff is helpful. €170-230 [Grand Hotel Francais](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelfrancais.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-8561380f88de4962813e0071f-446356_cjevent-f9077d7efbb311f0836400a40a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat dated but immaculately maintained and with a certain charm, this is always one of my top recommendations for a budget-ish stay in the city center. The location on Rue Voltaire is surrounded by good local restaurants, two metro stops, and convenient things like supermarkets, pharmacies, etc. €110-200 [Oh la la Hotel](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Foh-la-la.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-12b75ed1cb334b87933422649-446356_cjevent-1f523201fbb211f083f8009e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- Pleasant 3-star hotel right next to the Bastille metro stop and a quick walk into the Marais. Place des Voges is just a couple blocks away. The rooms are on the smaller side, but new, modern, and comfy. €100-190 [Hotel Paris Voltaire](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparis-voltaire.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-1ef22d2729d048158f008d6f4-446356_cjevent-f90fbae4fbb311f083a000a00a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Somewhat quirky and definitely no-frills, this 2-star hotel is a solid budget option. The colorful rooms are small, but comfortable enough and the location right beside the Voltaire metro stop makes getting around easy. €100-140 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) ## 5\. Champs Elysées (8th Arrondissement) Best for: Travelers looking for glamour and panache; anyone who wants an super luxurious hotel; high-end shoppers; those prioritizing proximity to the museums Pros: Architecturally grand and impressive; huge number of designer shops; opulent hotels; tons of museums; great transit connections Cons: Very crowded; filled with tourists and office workers; very expensive; can feel impersonal ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/c1ec3147-7733-4b91-8808-9338289a9853/1024px-Avenue_des_Champs-E%CC%81lyse%CC%81es_July_24%2C_2009_N1.jpg) Avenue des Champs Elysées seen from he Arc de Triomhe. Photo: [Josh Hallett](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Avenue_des_Champs-%C3%89lys%C3%A9es_July_24,_2009_N1.jpg), [CC BY-SA 2.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0), via Wikimedia Commons. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/527d0ec3-703c-46fa-a1f5-8198dd79a333/1024px-Rue_de_Marignan%2C_Paris_11_August_2015.jpg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1746561823343-F6V93CYANEH1766JJ9K7/unsplash-image-OoAr4_ZsIcw.jpg) Grand architecture along the Avenue des Champs Elysées ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/d0e10e2a-c815-45d3-bc76-835b97bcc391/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honore%CC%81%2C_Paris_8e.jpg) Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré. Photo: [Celette](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Rue_du_Faubourg-Saint-Honor%C3%A9,_Paris_8e.jpg), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons If you’re looking for a neighborhood that screams Parisian grandeur, this is it. An upscale and stunningly impressive area, the 8th arrondissement is what many people imagine when they picture Paris. Think broad boulevards, elegantly sculpted 19th-century Haussman-era buildings, and gargantuan monuments. Plus shopping - a whole lot of luxury shopping. Located on the Right Bank and a bit to the west of the city center, the defining feature of this neighborhood is the tree-lined Avenue des Champs-Elysées - an enormous stately boulevard that is Paris’s most famous street. It stretches from the towering Arc de Triomphe in the west all the way to Place de la Concorde in the east, butting up against the Tuileries Gardens and almost taking you right to the Louvre. All along that stretch and on its side streets is a dizzying line-up of famous designer stores (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Givenchy, etc.), global high-street brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, 5-star hotels, and a huge selection of ritzy cocktail bars, fine chocolatiers, macaron-makers, and more. This is also where you’ll find the fabled Golden Triangle (formed by connecting Avenues Montaigne and George V with the Champs-Elysées), and the area lives up to the name, offering a true bounty of all things upscale. I know I’m painting a picture of extreme wealth and out-of-reach opulence, but that’s kind of the theme here. This is one of Paris’ richest neighborhoods and the city’s luxury shopping hub, and being close to all of that is the appeal of staying here. For hotels, you have some of the best and most opulent in town, with a collection of absurdly beautiful palace hotels. Accordingly, luxury travelers and those interested in high-end shopping and dining will find themselves right at home. People who are not so interested in those things will probably still enjoy a walk past the designer stores or a splurge-worthy meal, but will be glad to be based elsewhere. This is also a business hub, so it’s not just rich residents and tourists. During the day, you’ll find plenty of working Parisians, mainly in the surrounding offices and out and about grabbing lunch or post-work drinks. People do live here too, and the swanky side streets actually feel fairly lived-in, just by fabulously wealthy people... Mere mortals do also come to the neighborhood and I find myself here regular; often to enjoy a spectacular cocktail at one of the glamorous hotel bars or, a bit more mundanely, to get my computer serviced at the Apple Store. There are otherappeals to staying here beyond just luxury amenities - the neighborhood is a genuine cultural powerhouse with many of the city’s best museums: on the eastern end of the Champs-Elysées you’ve got the Grand and Petit Palais, the Palais de l’Élysée, the Hôtel de la Marine (one of my favorite museums in Paris), La Galerie Dior. Head south and you’ll stumble upon the Musée Guimet (for Asian art), the Palais de Tokyo, the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris and the Palais Galliera (Paris’s fashion museum). For fans of the performing arts, there are also a number of good theaters, though shows are usually in French. Finally, when it comes to moving around the city, this is one of the best-served areas for public transit. You’ve got access to no fewer than 5 different subway lines, many of which run through the center of Paris and straight past the other sights and neighborhoods that you’re likely planning to visit. And one final note: should you choose to stay here, I would strongly recommend not staying directly on the Champs Elysées, which is always insanely busy and extremely touristy. It’s far better to find a hotel a few blocks off from there along one of the side streets. ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Barrière Fouquet’s](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Ffouquet-s-barriere-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D23857401_88922461_2_2_0__130909%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649379%3Bsrpvid%3D54b4606f72ec05e5%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-b3e96ea49a7b4e3688336127c-446356_cjevent-ac3c43224bc311f081ec03db0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Even the wealthiest of Parisians jostle for a spot on the 5-star Fouquet’s hidden rooftop garden, which feels a world away from the bustle of the Champs Elysées outside. The rooms are truly ostentatious, there’s an 8,600 square foott spa, and the downstairs brasserie is an institution. \$1500 [Hôtel Grand Powers](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fgrand-powers.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-727467c7194c4cdd97c4d4530-446356_cjevent-b9202a3cf57e11f0824302170a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Set on a ritzy corner of the Golden Triangle, this chic 5-star set in a gorgeously restored 1920’s building is an absolute favorite in the neighborhood. Guests get all the luxuries of the area’s grand hotels without the attitude (or the insane prices) with a more intimate feel and perks like fireplaces, a spa and pool, balconies and views. €700 [Hôtel Lancaster Paris](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Flancaster-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5754001_0_2_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5754001_0_2_0_0__77701%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649528%3Bsrpvid%3Deeac60b8e0490091%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9eaf67c6ef5b4e13989364936-446356_cjevent-092bceb5e63311f080f0073b0a82b824%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A classy 5-star hotel that feels like private home. A stream of film stars have stayed here – from Orson Wells to David Lynch—Marlene Dietrich’s piano still resides in her eponymous suite and it’s still a celebrity favorite. The swank Copper Bay cocktail lounge and courtyard restaurant are both neighborhood standouts. €550 [Citizen M Champs Elysée](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcitizenm-paris-champs-elysees.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D711796101_406253334_2_2_0_636827_33091%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649557%3Bsrpvid%3D7c9c60c9a7150332%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-2f0e56be85f846a387acb4ca5-446356_cjevent-ac42ea084bc311f0839304400a82b820%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A big, modern hotel just off the Champs Elysées with fun design objects in common areas (think a bending lamppost light). There’s a rooftop bar with an Eiffel Tower views too! \$500 [Maison Albar](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fha-tel-mac-mahon.html%3Fall_sr_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D333958%3Bdest_type%3Dhotel%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D33395801_410897768_0_2_0__54545%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649604%3Bsrpvid%3D158560e0acef04a9%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-d0d4318f1ffc46b58d20467e2-446356_cjevent-ac3b2c584bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Right by the Arc de Triomphe in a classic Haussmann-style building, choose this for kitschy-chic rooms in orange, gray and/or blue (some with mirrored ceilings), and a low-key bar restaurant, that opens out onto the street outside. \$380 [Hôtel Monsieur George](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmonsieur-george-amp-spa-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-08609bc0d1e34c0485dcf5189-446356_cjevent-ae04921bf57e11f08274023c0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Though only a few minutes’ walk from the Champs-Elysées, this ravishing, cosmopolitan hotel feels a world away. Quiet, discreet, and loaded with charm, it boasts a Michelin-star restaurant with an outdoor garden terrace. All at a third of what you’d pay at most luxury hotels in the neighborhood. €350 [Hôtel du Rond Point Champs-Elysées](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fdu-rond-point-des-champs-elysees.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-a8c0fd0f44434c8895ef26d3d-446356_cjevent-ae0bbb6bf57e11f0824502160a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- “Budget” hotels are hard to come by on these tony streets, so it’s no surprise rooms at this welcoming boutique hotel on a quiet street close to the avenue are at a premium. Besides impeccable service, this dapper hotel’s sleek bar, swimming pool and steam room complement the handsome rooms, many with outdoor terraces and views. €230 [Hôtel Ekta](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fekta.html%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-7c9a30f4e0a44bdf8ce7969a2-446356_cjevent-ae0e07e4f57e11f083fd01ff0a82b82a%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) \- This sleek budget hotel’s cozy '60s-inspired rooms evoke the designer Courrèges, with a black-and-white design, bold color-block accents, and lots of mirrors, and their smart layouts make them seem bigger than they are. The pricier suites, some with an outdoor terrace, are still a bargain in this neighborhood. €190 [Hôtel Regents Garden](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fpremierregentsgarden.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-12%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-13%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5159036_91902549_0_2_0__40818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649652%3Bsrpvid%3Dbefc60f63f7d053a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-9c2b4ffb1eb34ed5a08b3a5c1-446356_cjevent-0f9943cbe8c811f0826009c00a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - A brilliant budget option about a 10-minute walk from the Arc de Triomphe. Rooms are small, with bold patterned fabrics. There’s a big, sheltered courtyard garden with tables – a godsend on a hot day. €160+ ## Other neighborhoods to consider Between the 5 neighborhoods above, I think just about everyone should be able to find somewhere that makes for a good home base in Paris. But there are lots more options of course, so if you’re looking for somewhere different or just want to get an idea for what else is out there, I’ve included 3 other areas to consider below. ### Grands Boulevards – 9th arr. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/b7c6a3eb-6dbc-48e9-977d-1cc7ac7fcfb4/1024px-Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg) Looking down the Passage Jouffroy. Photo: [Chabe01](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Passage_Jouffroy_Paris_7.jpg), [CC BY-SA 4.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/af3dafcb-b402-442a-b546-e202d5517977/1024px-Rue_du_Faubourg-Montmartre%2C_26_May_2012.jpg) Just to the north of the Louvre and expanding out from/around the magnificent Opéra Garnier, you have the area known as the Grands Boulevards. An extremely atmospheric and pretty part of the city, a stroll here will take you past the *grands magasins(department stores) of Printemps and Galeries Lafayette and under some of Paris’s loveliest covered passages* - Jouffroy, Verdeau and Panoramas - each lined with high-end shops and historic restaurants and cafés of mostly high regard. Busy with shoppers and tourists during the day, and theatergoers and people out for night on the town in the evenings, it’s a lively and surprisingly local neighborhood considering its location in the very center of the city. In addition to the grand department stores and pretty architecture, much of what you’ll find here are theaters, concert halls, bars, and restaurants and cafés. As you head north the crowd gets a bit younger and you’ll find an even denser cluster of bars along with many nice, but casual restaurants. In recent years, a number of highly sought-after boutique hotels have opened up here (Hotel des Grands Boulevards, Hotel Hana, Adele et Jules, La Fantaisie, etc.), so you also have a very good selection of accommodation and the prices are quite reasonable considering the great location. The main reason I haven’t included the neighborhood as one of my top recommendations is twofold: firstly, I’m mindful that the more youthful and nightlife heavy areas won’t be very attractive for lots of people. They’re fun spots to go for a night out, but you don’t necessarily need or want to have your hotel there. And secondly, not that many people actually live in the neighborhood, so although it’s always busy with workers and shoppers during the day, and the nightlife and restaurant-heavy sections are bustling at night, the more commercial/shopping focused stretches can feel rather too quiet in the evenings. Weekends can be rather dead too, as none of the workers are around. Neither of those is necessarily a dealbreaker, but they’re things to know and consider as you weigh up whether this is a good base for you. ### Eiffel Tower - 7th and 16th arr. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1e25983c-e302-4529-a8cb-6efc12469de1/1024px-Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg) Rue Saint-Dominique looking at the Eiffel Tower. Photo: [L-BBE](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Paris_75007_Rue_Saint-Dominique_no_54_towards_Eiffel_Tower_20160419.jpg), [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons. Cropped ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1dc356bc-8188-4f21-80ec-2a9ed6cbcdc1/1024px-P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.jpeg) Elegeant Rue de Grenelle. Photo: [Mbzt](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:P1110397_Paris_VII_rue_de_Grenelle_rwk.JPG), [CC BY 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/34877717-fba0-473f-8970-d1e43bc3b1be/IMG_1752+Large.jpg) Musée Maillol along Rue de Grenelle in the 7th Lots of people think that staying near the Eiffel Tower is a good idea, but in general, I’ve found that it isn’t. The tower, located in the sprawling 7th arrondissement well to the west of basically everywhere else that you’re going to be visiting, just isn’t centrally located enough to be a very good base. You’re going to come out here at some point of course, but it’s usually a better idea to visit than to stay in the neighborhood. Having said that, it’s a genuinely lovely area, so sightseeing (in)convenience aside, it’s a very nice place to hang out in. Elegant, upscale, and once the favored home of much of France’s nobility, most of what you have here today is an attractive mix of upscale residential areas, government buildings and embassies, and a healthy dose of boutiques, restaurants, and shops. As an area to live in, it’s really quite nice. Central Rue Saint-Dominique, which leads up to the Champ de Mars (the Eiffel Tower’s park), is packed with tempting shops, cafés, patisseries, bars, and lots more, while Rue Cler, which runs off from there, is one of the city’s more scenic market streets. Those are the main spots, but there are plenty of other lively and pleasant areas, so you certainly won’t struggle to find places to eat, drink, or browse if you stay here. There are also a few big sights nearby beyond the Eiffel tower: high-end shoppers should absolutely make the requisite pilgrimage to Le Bon Marché, Paris’s most elegant department store, while the palatial Invalides (where Napleon’s tomb is) and Musée Rodin are steps away to your east. Meanwhile, the Trocadéro is just across the river, as are the Musée de la Marine, Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, Musée de l’Homme, the Paris Aquarium, the marvelous Théâtre Nationale de Chaillot, and a collection of some of the city’s best art/fashion museums. Again, like I said above, the main disadvantage to staying here is just that you’ll be too far to walk for most of your sightseeing (around 40 minutes to a lot of the more central areas). There are also only a couple of convenient metro stops, so you’ll only have access to one or two lines and will often have about a 10-minute walk to a station. ### The Louvre - 1st arr. ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/225f0e75-8404-42bd-80e9-c4d2d0a859ac/1024px-Paris_75001_Rue_de_Rivoli_no_47_towards_west_2141209.jpg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/94f75a52-88dd-41fd-bb52-e1a8e32da24f/1024px-Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.jpeg) The gardens of the Palais Royal. Photo: [LPLT](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Jardins_du_Palais_Royal.JPG), [CC BY-SA 3.0](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0), via Wikimedia Commons The beating heart of Paris and an architecturally magnificent area, the Louvre/1st arrondissement overflows with sights and cultural offerings, including the golden constellation that is the Louvre, the Bourse de Commerce-Pinault Collection, the Centre Pompidou (closed for renovations), and the newly opened Fondation Cartier. Not to mention the Tuileries Gardens and Paris’s unrivaled beauty, the Palais Royal gardens. Within easy walking distance of the Opera Garnier, the Champs Elysées, the Marais, and even all the sights and charming neighborhoods across the river on the Left Bank, this is also an incredibly convenient location for sightseeing. There’s a good selection of hotels too, including some surprisingly affordable options alongside the pricier but wonderful Grand Dame hotels like Le Meurice, the Ritz, and the Cheval Blanc. Sounds a bit too good to be true, right? Well, that’s because it is: the drawbacks are that this is an almost exclusively touristic area where no one actually lives. Other than workers during the day, you won’t find any local life here and you’re probably more likely to hear English (or any of a thousand other languages) spoken around you than French. In line with that, aside from some tourist traps and very high-end establishments, there’s little in the way of restaurants, cafés, or nightlife. If you’re willing to entirely sacrifice atmosphere in favor of sightseeing convenience, it’s a great place to stay. You just have to be ok with that tradeoff. ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews See Paris through a local's eyes on a custom private tour\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/Apg9JBg.jpeg) Montmartre - why I don’t recommend it ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/fb7508d0-e6ee-4c7d-8f78-fc1e407bc369/1024px-Chez_Euge%CC%80ne%2C_Place_du_Tertre%2C_Paris_15_March_2010.jpg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/98ed81f3-ce3f-4251-812f-eb97bcd4b15a/1024px-Sacre_Coeur_1.jpeg) ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/8ce4485a-62a0-4a5a-8c46-69b6ed7add0e/1024px-Montmartre_hills_to_taverns%2C_Paris_20_May_2014.jpg) I’m aware that loads of guides (largely written by other tourists) list Montmartre as a top area to stay, so I imagine it may be surprising that I’ve listed it as somewhere *notto stay. That’s because this is one of Paris’ most polarizing neighborhoods and it’s one that people either adore or absolutely hate. I think it’s a nice place to visit, but not somewhere you should stay. Let me explain why. Montmartre, most famous for being home to the Sacre-Coeur Basilica, sits high atop the Butte Montmartre hill in the 18th arrondissement, well to the north of central Paris. One of the highest points in the city, the views here are truly spectacular and there’s an almost village-like atmosphere with a charmingly quaint streetscape. There’s no denying how nice it is to wander amid the cobblestone streets while admiring the little houses covered in ivy, the area’s two windmills, and even an urban vineyard. If that description has you thinking “well that sounds amazing”, hold on. While Montmartre is all the things I just described, it’s also extremely inconveniently located, is borderline overrun by tourists, and not actually very Parisian. I think that it’s the type of area you should visit, but definitely not stay in. Since Montmartre sits high atop a hill, getting between the different parts of the neighborhood requires regular uphill and downhill walks which can be genuinely fatiguing. What might be a charming hilly stroll for a single afternoon can quickly become a drag when you have to do it every morning and evening. And when it comes to sightseeing and getting to the rest of Paris, Montmartre is simply far from everywhere else. It’s well-served by the metro (there are no fewer than 7 metro stations, providing access to 4 different lines), but journey times are still much longer than they would be if staying more centrally. You will routinely have 30-minute metro rides to get wherever you’re going. As one of the last neighborhoods to be annexed into Paris (it was a separate town prior to that), Montmartre is the last bastion of the city that retains its small town feel. If your vision of Paris is an Old-World village with cobblestone streets, pleasant little squares, and streets lined with bakeries, cafés, and restaurants whose tables spill out onto the sidewalk, this is as close as you’ll get to it. It’s nothing like the rest of Paris and doesn’t really represent the city more broadly, but it’s undeniably charming (even if extremely touristy). Of course, the area’s appeal is lost on no one, and the neighborhood is absolute catnip for day trippers, who flock here by the thousands to see the Basilica and wander the streets. Parts of Montmartre get legitimately overrun with visitors - Place du Tertre* is the most egregious - and the atmosphere is frequently unpleasantly touristic. In some parts, you will struggle to find anywhere that isn’t a tourist trap. It’s not exclusively a tourist zone and if you wander away from the most popular areas you can find pockets of local life, but you’ll have to seek those places out. If you choose to ignore my advice and want to stay here, know that there are two distinct parts to Montmartre, something that guidebooks often neglect to explain. There’s the upper area around the Sacré-Coeur, which is where you’ll find the hilly cobbled streets and picturesque, Old-World feel. This is what most people think of when they picture the neighborhood. It’s also the most touristy section. Then there’s the lower area, heading south toward Pigalle and the rest of the city, which is much more urban, younger, and livelier. This was once Paris’s notorious red light district, but nowadays it’s a cool neighborhood and a major go-out area that’s filled with trendy bars, modern restaurants (from big brasseries to chic bistros), and nice hotels. The Moulin Rouge is here too, along the always lively Boulevard de Clichy. And in between those two ends of the neighborhood, you have Montmartre’s middle region around the Rue des Abbesses, which is lined with tempting boutiques and cafés. Right nearby, the ancient market street of Rue des Martyrs has lots of interesting shopping as well. This area is both geographically and atmospherically a sort of middle ground between the north and south of the neighborhood. With all this in mind, here’s my overall advice: realistically, I think the neighborhood is just too far removed from the rest of the city to be a convenient base and I find it far too touristy. It’s just not a great place to stay. Ultimately, if you want to experience village life in France, go to a village\! ### My recommended hotels [Hôtel Particulier Montmartre](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fparticulier-montmartre-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649147%3Bsrpvid%3D00a55ffca2740998%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-f9ae08bcd4ab4e1da5cee57c3-446356_cjevent-ac3fc9644bc311f08176044e0a82b82c%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - On a hidden lane off a charming cobbled street, this elegant manor surrounded by a private park with towering trees offers five artist-designed suites. Even if you don’t sleep here, stop in for the romantic cocktail bar and restaurant, designed by the iconic Paris decorator Jacques Garcia. €720 [Maison Souquet](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fmaison-souquet.htm%3Faid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-983a483c33f4445e88331b70c-446356_cjevent-d2f3bad6f57e11f083ef020a0a82b821%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Housed in a former brothel, this drop-dead gorgeous hotel captures a romantic Belle Époque vibe that takes you back in time in the most over-the-top way. The opulent decor extends from two velvet-clad lounges to your cozy (read tiny) room and basement spa, complete with hammam and pool. €500 [Hôtel des Arts](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhoteldesarts.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5065702_376765258_0_0_0__21432%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649321%3Bsrpvid%3Dd503604b12c60b62%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-19f7bb3461aa41fda49610ab1-446356_cjevent-ac3f992b4bc311f08304047a0a82b832%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Family-run for three generations, this warm and welcoming hotel, housed in a pretty townhouse and decorated in a lively retro-style, offers exceptional views over the Montmartre streets and rooftops. A hammam and fitness room in the basement a great to come home to. €270 [Terrass Hotel](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fterrass-paris.html%3Fage%3D0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsoh%3D1%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649256%3Bsrpvid%3D8f4d60327c80034f%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-c13626b38e8c410bbc7d0c6b9-446356_cjevent-ac3f56594bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This trendy 4-star is famous for its spacious rooftop bar and restaurant, whose sweeping views of Paris make it popular with visitors and Parisians alike. The rooms - some with balconies and Eiffel Tower views - are small but well equipped. The onsite Nuxe spa is a big plus. €200 [Hôtel le Relais Montmartre](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fhotelrelaismontmartre.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D5771201_91416680_2_2_0__18720%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649281%3Bsrpvid%3D38a4603e0f4a082a%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-0c24cc6f387c4d39a22abaf8f-446356_cjevent-fa12a81f0a7011f183a301aa0a82b838%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - This cozy 4-star family-run hotel feels like coming home, with tasteful rooms that privilege comfort and calm. Its location in the heart of the village, and its relatively gentle prices, assure its popularity. €200 [Hotel Basss](https://www.stay22.com/allez/booking?aid=goaskalocalllc&campaign=goaskalocal-wheretostayinparis&product=lma&habl=false&isinc=true&sid22=0cf2b349-1629-4150-a613-31160a5123dc&plng=en-US&source=direct&medium=deeplink&link=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.booking.com%2Fhotel%2Ffr%2Fcomfort-paris-18eme-sacre-coeur.html%3Fage%3D0%3Ball_sr_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bcheckin%3D2025-06-15%3Bcheckout%3D2025-06-16%3Bdest_id%3D-1456928%3Bdest_type%3Dcity%3Bdist%3D0%3Bgroup_adults%3D2%3Bgroup_children%3D0%3Bhapos%3D1%3Bhighlighted_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bhpos%3D1%3Bmatching_block_id%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0%3Bno_rooms%3D1%3Breq_adults%3D2%3Breq_children%3D0%3Broom1%3DA%252CA%3Bsb_price_type%3Dtotal%3Bsid%3D61cc7eb0f09b907df39bc67fdc19e540%3Bsr_order%3Dpopularity%3Bsr_pri_blocks%3D22096202_369594634_2_2_0__20818%3Bsrepoch%3D1749649344%3Bsrpvid%3D005a605df0f10673%3Btype%3Dtotal%3Bucfs%3D1%26aid%3D818288%26label%3Daffnetcj-11916287_pub-5108952_site-101121747_pname-Go%2BTravel%2BUn%2BLimited_clkid-5d3fe2345c814a2a8ae72d927-446356_cjevent-ac428aaa4bc311f083cf042e0a82b836%26utm_source%3Daffnetcj%26utm_medium%3Dbannerindex%26utm_campaign%3Dxx%26utm_term%3Dindex-11916287&ref22=https%3A%2F%2Fgoaskalocal.com%2Fblog%2Fwhere-to-stay-in-paris) - Among the shops and cafés of Rue des Abbesses, this 3-star boutique hotel offers small, bright, and functional rooms in pale pastel shades—some with lovely views—and a quaint little courtyard terrace. €175 ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Ditch the tourist traps and see the real Paris with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/btapiYb.jpeg) ## Frequently asked questions If you’ve gotten this far and still can’t make up your mind, below I have tried to directly answer some of the major questions people typically have. Best overall area? For visitors on their first trip who will likely be doing a lot of the “conventional” sightseeing and who also want a classic Parisian atmosphere, Le Marais is always my top recommendation.It’s extremely central - walkable to many of the city’s main sights - and exceedingly pretty and atmospheric with narrow and pedestrianized streets. While touristy, it does not feel “overrun” and you’ll find lots of good shopping, a solid dining scene, and countless nice cafes, bakeries, and chocolatiers. It just feels quintessentially Parisian. Best neighborhood for families? If you’re traveling with little kids, the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Prés are always my top recommendations. Both neighborhoods are riverfront (kids love watching the boats), they are both central so you can get most places on foot, and you have a huge green space in each: the Jardins du Luxembourg (for Saint Germain des Pres) and the Jardin des Plantes (for the Latin Quarter).Saint Germain is more central and has better public transit connections but is also a fair deal pricier. Best area for a luxury stay? If you’re looking for an upscale and luxurious Paris experience, then I think your best bet is to stay either along the Champs Elysées (around the Golden Triangle area) or in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a historic literary quarter that’s wealthy but not ostentatiously so, and it’s a real neighborhood with a pleasantly local atmosphere (away from the most touristy parts), great dining, and interesting shops. Hotels are mostly boutique and quite nice. The Champs Elysées, meanwhile, is much grander and more opulent, with lavish palace- hotels, swanky cocktail bars, gourmet restaurants, and true luxury shopping. It has much less of a neighborhood feel though and is a whole lot flashier. Where to stay if you’re on a budget? If you’re on a budget and trying to get the best bang for your buck, I’d recommend looking in the 11th arrondissement, ideally between Place de la Bastille and Place de la Nation. This is a hip but predominantly local part of town, and it has good dining, shopping, and nightlife in addition to affordable hotels (and lots of apartment rentals). Another nice option, but which I’d mainly recommend for travelers on the younger side of 40, would be Belleville, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements. Best neighborhood for younger travelers or those looking for nightlife? If you’re young and/or are planning on enjoying a lot of late nights, I recommend the 11th arr., Belleville, or Grands Boulevards/Pigalle. The 11th arrondissement - especially near Place de la Bastille/Rue de la Roquette and to the north along Rue Oberkampf - is a great option for anyone after a cool neighborhood that has good but pleasantly casual nightlife. It’s not exclusively a “go out area”, so has lots of restaurants and shops in addition to the bars. Very international, you’ll see a fair deal of expats and other visitors in addition to younger Parisians. Belleville, which straddles the 19th and 20th arrondissements has a similar vibe, especially along Rue de Belleville, but less gentrified and with a more gritty atmosphere. It’s also more multicultural, but with immigrant communities as opposed to expats. Grands Boulevards & Pigalle (the 9th arrondissement) are extremely lively and youthful at night and overflowing with bars. The nightlife here is more “intense” than in the two neighborhoods above and it can be quite loud at night near the busy streets. Where to stay for walkability to the big sights? Staying around the Louvre and anywhere in the 1st arrondissement more broadly puts you literally in the very center of the city. It’s a beautiful area and there are big sights all around you often just a few minutes’ walk away. The downside is that it’s extremely expensive, overwhelmingly touristy, and has very little authentic life. Saint-Germain-des-Prés has fewer of its own sights, but it’s smack in the middle of many other places that you’ll be visiting so is super convenient. The Musée d’Orsay, Eiffel Tower, Luxembourg Gardens, Napoleon’s Tomb, the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Mariais and Latin Quarter are all just a short walk away. It’s also just a really nice neighborhood. Finally, the Golden Triangle area of the 8th arrondissement is farther from most of the sights, but many of Paris’s best museums are on its doorstep, so it’s a wonderful base for culture/museum-minded travelers. Best area for moving about the city (best public transit connections)? Paris’s metro system is incredibly comprehensive, so the city doesn’t lack for well-connected neighborhoods, but if I had to pick a few areasthat provide truly stellar access, I’d suggest finding a hotel near the following stations: Montparnasse-Bienvenüe, Nation, République, and Châtelet. Each of these provides access to at least 4 different metro lines and they’re also in pleasant residential neighborhoods (except for Châtelet, which is right in the city center). Safest neighborhoods? Honestly, if you’re staying anywhere relatively central, I don’t think that you need to be worried about safety. Paris is very safe overall, and other than pickpocketing or typical tourist scams, you’re unlikely to have any issues while here. The only place I think you’re better off avoiding is the area around the Gare du Nord train station, which can feel quite unpleasant, especially later at night. ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ⭐ 5.0 rating from traveler reviews Spend a day seeing a more authentic side of the city with local guide Pascal\! ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1661861875951-6FU0U6FH89AGMF1FKLEA/village.png?format=500w) City tours by car & foot ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761781281-H427EYSDB4S7LUV9JPJ3/diamond.png) Hidden gems and local culture ![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/609d3f1781f4a87463f238cb/1660761277947-22NPO4A80YVBDUZ5B59K/chef.png?format=300w) Food & market tours ![](https://i.imgur.com/pTaDWr5.jpeg) [![](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v2/namespaces/memberAccountAvatars/libraries/5c38ea8849bad6fa18e67b10/5925c912-56b3-430b-85ef-75e98c26921a/Jen+Ladone+avatar.jpeg) Jennifer Ladone](https://goaskalocal.com/blog?author=696eac9250c02f30d63c8030) An editor and translator by trade, Jennifer swapped New York City for Paris in 2004 and has been living in the French capital ever since. An expert on all things Paris, she’s a regular features writer for France Today magazine, the co-author of the book “Fodor’s Around Paris With Kids”, and the hotel and restaurant reviewer for Fodor’s Paris. <https://jenniferladonne.com/>
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