🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 149 (from laksa073)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa149.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://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/","crawl_time":1776091486,"first_indexed_time":1475289967,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,roughguides!www,\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/ s443","src_root_hash":"3146111842060455149","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Which is the best area to stay in Paris? | Rough Guides","meta_descriptions":["Planning a trip always includes finding the best place to stay. This Rough Guide will help you to choose where to stay in Paris"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"All the clichés about\nParis\nare true – stylish, romantic, glamorous and utterly compelling. Yet it retains surprises that continue to delight even the most seasoned visitors. The landscape of the city changes as you cross from quartier to quartier. From historic St-Germain to the vibrant Marais, Paris is abuzz with bars and cafés.\nBut where should you base yourself when you visit? With so many\nFrance accommodations\non offer – from chic apartments to grand hotels and hidden courtyard stays – it’s worth knowing the character of each neighborhood. Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, this guide will help you pick the best area to stay in Paris.\nWhat is the best area to stay in Paris?\nBest for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées\nThe best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais\nBest for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin\nBest for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain\nThe best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre\nBest for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette\nParis' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant\nBest for luxury: Le Louvre\nBest area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle\nWhere to stay in Paris with kids\nWe'll delve into greater detail below, but for a quick summary:\nChamps-Elysées: \nA central, luxurious area with world-famous landmarks and high-end shopping, but crowded and expensive.\nMarais: \nA charming historic district with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife, though it can be noisy and crowded.\nQuartier Latin: \nA budget-friendly area with a rich history and student atmosphere, offering affordable dining options but some parts can feel touristy.\nSt-Germain:\nAn upscale neighbourhood known for its intellectual history and charming cafés, but can be expensive and crowded.\nMontmartre: \nA romantic, artistic quarter with stunning city views, though its hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate.\nCanal St-Martin and La Villette:\nA trendy area with a local feel, featuring picturesque canals and hip cafés, but further from main tourist attractions.\nBelleville and Ménilmontant:\nA diverse, vibrant area with an authentic local atmosphere and great street art, though it can feel rough around the edges.\nLe Louvre: \nHome to the world-famous museum and close to major attractions, but very touristy and extremely crowded.\nSouth Pigalle: \nA hip area with trendy bars and restaurants offering an authentic Parisian feel, but with limited major tourist attractions nearby.\nLooking for vacation ideas in France?\nCheck out\nour 7-day France itinerary\n- you might like it!\nMy recommendation:\nChalgrin Boutique Hotel\nLocation:\nCentral Paris, 8th arrondissement \nPros:\nWorld-famous landmarks, luxury shopping, and fine dining \nCons:\nCrowded with tourists and expensive\nYou’ll find some of the city’s most famous landmarks around the\nChamps-Elysées\n, including the Place de la Concorde, Tuileries Gardens and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s also one of the most exclusive parts of Paris, home to an array of luxury hotels and high-fashion shops.  The avenue itself stretches for 1.9 kilometres (1.2 miles) and is lined with horse-chestnut trees.\nAt the lower end of the ChampsElysées is the Grand Palais — a grandiose Neoclassical building with a fine glass and ironwork cupola. It was created for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. The cupola forms the centrepiece of the nef (nave) — a huge, impressive exhibition space, used for large-scale installations, fashion shows and trade fairs.\nNearby, you'll find the Petit Palais, which houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. For music lovers, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées offers a rich program of classical music, opera, and dance performances.\nWhy I love it:\n\"At night, the Champs-Elysées comes alive with illuminated storefronts and the twinkling lights of passing cars. It really feels like the 'City of Lights' when I'm here.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nFor a boutique stay: \nChalgrin Boutique Hotel\n. This elegant hotel offers a perfect blend of Parisian charm and modern comfort, steps away from the iconic avenue. \nFor luxury\n: \nTilsitt Etoile Paris\n. This opulent hotel provides a lavish experience with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe. \nFor convenience:\n \nMarceau Champs-Elysées\n. Located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, this hotel offers easy access to the area's best shopping and attractions.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodation near the Champs-Elysées\nat any budget.\nTriumphal Arch in Paris © Sergey Molchenko\/Shutterstock\nThe best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais\nMy recommendation:  \nHotel Meslay Republique\nLocation:\nRight bank of the Seine, spanning parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements \nPros:\nCharming historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife \nCons:\nCan be crowded and noisy, especially on weekends\nFull of splendid old mansions, narrow lanes, designer boutiques and buzzing bars and restaurants, the\nMarais\nis one of Paris’s more striking\nquartiers\n. This chic district also holds a slew of sleek galleries, and the old Jewish quarter centred on rue des Rosiers. You'll also find here a number of excellent museums, not least the splendid Musée Picasso.\nThe Centre Pompidou’s radical “inside-out” architecture looks just as ground-breaking as it did when it first opened in the 1970s, and its modern art museum is a knockout.\nThe opening of the Centre Pompidou gave rise to some violent reactions. Since then, however, it has won over critics and the public alike. Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers freed up maximum space inside by placing all infrastructure outside.\nThe transparent escalator on the front of the building, giving access to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, affords\nsuperb views over the city.\nWhy I love it:\nMy favourite part of Marais is the Place des Vosges, at the eastern end of rue des Francs-Bourgeois. It is a masterpiece of aristocratic elegance. I just love the symmetrical pink brick and stone mansions built over arcades.\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for couples: \nHotel Meslay Republique\n. This intimate hotel offers cosy rooms and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a Parisian getaway. \nBest for history buffs: \nHôtel De Nice\n. Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel captures the essence of old-world Paris with modern amenities. \nBest for art lovers: \nHotel Rivoli\n. Surrounded by galleries and museums, this stylish hotel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the Marais art scene.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodations in Marais\nat any budget.\nVoges Square in Marais, Paris © Tommy YUN\/Shutterstock\nBest for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin\nMy recommendation: \nGrand Hôtel de Clermont\nLocation:\n5th and parts of the 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine \nPros:\nRich in history, student-friendly atmosphere, and affordable dining options \nCon:\nSome areas can feel touristy and lack the luxury of other Parisian districts\nThe\nQuartier Latin\nhas been associated with students ever since the Sorbonne was established in the thirteenth century. Many colleges remain in the area to this day, along with some\nfascinating vestiges\nof the medieval city.\nSome of the quarter’s student chic may have worn thin in recent years as\nrents have risen\n, but this is still one of the most relaxed areas of Paris.\nJust off “La Mouff” — the city’s famed rue Mouffetard market has now mostly given over to classy food shops. This authentic market is set around the pretty Monge fountain and sells fabulous, pricey produce. Organic stalls on Sundays.\nThe Latin Quarter's budget-friendly reputation extends to its many affordable bookshops, including the famous Shakespeare and Company. This historic English-language bookstore has been a haven for writers and book lovers since 1951.\nWhy I love it:\n\"My favourite part of the Quartier Latin is the botanical garden — Jardin des Plantes. It started in 1626 as a royal garden of medicinal plants, it now includes a small zoo, greenhouses, and the Natural History Museum.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for a boutique stay:\n \nGrand Hôtel de Clermont\n. This charming hotel offers a quintessential Parisian experience in the heart of the Latin Quarter. \nBest for budget travellers:\n \nHôtel du Mont Blanc\n. Offering comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, this hotel is perfect for those looking to save on lodging. \nBest for spa lovers: \nHotel Les Bulles De Paris\n. This unique hotel features a champagne-themed spa, offering a luxurious twist to your Latin Quarter stay.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodations near Quartier Latin\nat any budget.\nWhere to stay in Paris? Quartier Latin © Shutterstock\nBest for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain\nMy recommendation:\nL’Hôtel\nLocation:\n6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine \nPros:\nIntellectual history, charming cafés, and upscale shopping \nCons:\nCan be expensive and crowded with tourists\nSt-Germain\n, the westernmost section of Paris’s Left Bank, has long been famous as the haunt of bohemians and intellectuals. A few famous cafés preserve a strong flavour of the old times, but the dominant spirit these days is elegant, relaxed and seriously upmarket.\nFronting onto rue de Vaugirard, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the chief green space of the Left Bank. At the centre, the round pond and immaculate floral parterres are overlooked by the haughty Palais du Luxembourg, the seat of the French Senate.\nThe Rue de Seine and Rue Jacob are particularly known for their high-end art dealers and galleries. For a taste of the area's intellectual history, visit the famous Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, once frequented by philosophers and writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.\nWhy I love it:\n\"To me, I prefer to go to St-Germain to see the local up-and-coming artists. École des Beaux-Arts is here and is one of the most influential art schools in France. Its beautiful courtyard is open to the public and often hosts exhibitions of student work.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for a quirky boutique:\nL’Hôtel\n. This hotel epitomizes louche Left Bank opulence, with twenty sumptuous rooms. Located in the historical district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this 5-star hotel features a hammam and an indoor swimming pool. \nBest for luxury: \nHotel De Seine\n. This upscale hotel offers sophisticated accommodations in one of Paris's most fashionable neighbourhoods. \nBest for families:\n \nVilla Des Princes\n. With spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel is ideal for families exploring the Left Bank.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodations near St-Germain\nat any budget.\nSt. Germain, Paris © Shutterstock\nThe best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre\nMy recommendation:\nHotel Boronali\n.\nLocation:\n18th arrondissement, on a hill in northern Paris \nPros:\nRomantic atmosphere, stunning city views, and artistic heritage \nCons:\nHilly terrain can be challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues\nOne of Paris’s most romantic quarters, Montmartre is famed for its association with artists like Renoir, Degas, Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec. It long existed as a hilltop village outside the city walls, and today the steep streets around the Butte Montmartre, Paris’s highest point, preserve an attractively village-like atmosphere.\nThough The Moulin Rouge's environs have lost the glamour they once had, you can’t help but be drawn towards the tatty red windmill. Its windows are filled with photos of beaming showgirls.\nWhen Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized the Moulin Rouge in his paintings, it was one of many such bawdy, populist cabarets in the area. Nowadays, it survives on its reputation, offering expensive Vegas-style dinner-and-show deals.\nWhy I love it:\n\"I love taking a stroll around Musée de Montmartre. The museum's gardens offer stunning views of the only vineyard left in Paris, the Clos Montmartre.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for a boutique stay\n: \nHotel Boronali\n. This stylish hotel offers contemporary design with a nod to Montmartre's artistic heritage. \nBest for views:\n \nHotel Luxia\n. Perched on the hill of Montmartre, this hotel offers breathtaking panoramas of Paris. \nBest for romance:\n \nHôtel des Arts Montmartre\n. With its cosy rooms and artistic flair, this hotel captures the romantic essence of Montmartre.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodations near Montmarte\nat any budget.\nThe Place du Tertre and the Sacre-Coeur, quarter Montmartre in Paris © Shutterstock\nBest for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette\nMy recommendation:\nAparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette\n. \nLocation:\nNortheastern Paris, spanning parts of the 10th and 19th arrondissements \nPros:\nTrendy cafés, picturesque canal, and a more local feel \nCons:\nFurther from main tourist attractions and can feel less polished than central areas\nLa Villette and the Canal St-Martin, in the northeast of the city, were for generations the centre of a densely populated working-class district. Since then, they have undergone extensive renovation.\nToday the\nquais\nhave been made more appealing to cyclists, rollerbladers and pedestrians and the area is peppered with trendy cafés and bars. For those who like an up-and-coming vibe, this a where to stay in Paris.\nThe Canal St-Martin area is known for its iron footbridges and tree-lined quays, perfect for picnics or evening strolls. On Sundays, the roads along the canal are closed to cars.\nWhy I love it:\n\"This area is also home to some of Paris's best street art, particularly around Rue de l'Ourcq.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for a boutique stay\n: \nibis Paris La Villette Cité des Sciences 19ème\n. This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. \nBest for long stays\n: \nAparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette\n. These well-equipped apartments are perfect for extended stays in this trendy area. \nBest for canal views:\n \nHôtel du Quai de Seine\n. This charming hotel offers picturesque views of the Canal Saint-Martin.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodation near Canal St-Martin\nat any budget.\nCanal Saint-Martin, Paris © Shutterstock\nParis' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant \nMy recommendation:\nHotel Scarlett\nLocation:\nEastern Paris, primarily in the 20th arrondissement \nPros:\nDiverse culture, authentic local atmosphere, and great street art \nCons:\nLess touristy amenities and can feel rough around the edges in some parts\nNortheastern Paris, comprising the Canal St-Martin, Belleville, Ménilmontant and La Villette, is one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of the city. It is home to sizeable ethnic populations, as well as students and artists.\nYou won't want to miss Père-Lachaise cemetery, the final resting place of numerous famous artists and writers. Or worth seeing is the leafy Canal St-Martin, with its trendy cafés and bars.\nSome of the city’s best nightlife is concentrated on rues Oberkampf and Jean-Pierre Timbaud. While two attractive parks, the Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de Belleville, reward visitors with fine views over the city.\nDreaming of a holiday in France?\nStart planning your trip by finding out\nhow to get there\n.\nWhy I love it:\n\"This is where you'll find my favourite panoramic view of Paris. If you climb to the top of Parc de Belleville, it's a less crowded alternative to the Sacré-Cœur viewpoint.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for a boutique stay: \nHotel Scarlett\n. This design-forward hotel captures the creative spirit of the neighbourhood. \nBest for budget travellers: \nHotel des Pyrénées\n. This no-frills hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable prices. \nBest for business travellers:\n \nNovotel Paris 20 Belleville\n. With its modern amenities and business facilities, this hotel caters well to those travelling for work.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodation in Belleville\nat any budget.\nBest for luxury: Le Louvre\nMy recommendation:\nVilla-des-Prés\nLocation:\n1st arrondissement, central Paris \nPros:\nHome to world-famous museum and close to many major attractions \nCons:\nVery touristy and can be extremely crowded, especially during peak seasons\nThe Louvre is one of the world’s truly great museums. Opened in 1793, during the Revolution, it soon acquired the largest art collection on earth, thanks to Napoleon’s conquests.\nToday, it houses paintings, sculptures and precious art objects, from Ancient Egyptian jewellery to the beginnings of Impressionism. Separate from the Louvre proper, but within the palace, is the museum Les Arts Décoratifs.\nThe largest of the museum’s collections is its paintings. The early Italians are perhaps the most interesting, among them Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you want to get near her, go during one of the evening openings, or first thing in the day. Other highlights of the Italian collection include two Botticelli frescoes and Fra Angelico’s Coronation of the Virgin.\nWhy I love it:\n\"This area is great for shopping. Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme are my picks for the best high-end jewellery stores and fashion boutiques in Paris.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for a boutique stay:\n \nVilla-des-Prés\n. This elegant hotel offers a tranquil retreat just steps away from the bustling Louvre area. \nBest for history lovers:\n \nHôtel du Cygne Paris\n. Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel offers a taste of Parisian history. \nBest for art enthusiasts:\n \nHôtel de Lille\n. This stylish hotel features art-inspired decor, perfectly complementing its proximity to world-class museums.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodation near the Louvre\nat any budget.\nLouvre, Paris © Shutterstock\nBest area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle\nMy recommendation:\nSonder Le Frochot\nLocation:\n9th arrondissement, just south of Montmartre \nPros:\nHip bars, trendy restaurants, and a more authentic Parisian feel \nCons:\nLimited major tourist attractions in the immediate area\nSouth Pigalle, or \"SoPi,\" has transformed from a red-light district to one of Paris's trendiest neighborhoods. It's known for its excellent cocktail bars, like Dirty Dick and Glass, which are at the forefront of Paris's craft cocktail scene.\nRues de Douai, Victor-Massé and Houdon sport a large number of electric guitar and hi-fi shops. Rue des Martyrs is one of Paris’s most enjoyable gastro-streets.\nMusic lovers should visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a charming museum dedicated to the Romantic era, with a particular focus on George Sand. The museum's tearoom in the garden is a hidden gem. For a taste of old Pigalle, visit the Musée de l'Érotisme, which offers a unique perspective on the area's risqué history.\nWhy I love it:\n\"South Pigalle's charm lies in its architecture. I recommend you take a stroll down Rue Victor Massé to admire the ornate façades and wrought-iron balconies.\"\nWhere to stay in this area\nBest for a boutique stay:\n \nSonder Le Frochot\n. This trendy hotel captures the hip vibe of South Pigalle with its modern design and amenities. \nBest for nightlife:\n \nLe Pigalle\n. This vibrant hotel is at the heart of the neighbourhood's bustling bar and restaurant scene. \nBest for budget travellers:\n \nGrand Hôtel de Clermont\n. This charming budget hotel offers a taste of local Parisian life without breaking the bank.\nOr browse hundreds of\naccommodation in South Pigalle\nat any budget.\nMoulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock\nWhere to stay in Paris with kids\nBig cities tend to have a good variety of cheap establishments. In small towns and rural areas, you may not be so lucky, particularly as the cheaper, family-run hotels find it increasingly hard to survive.\nSwanky resorts, particularly those on the Côte d’Azur, have very high prices in July and August, but even these are still cheaper than Paris. If you’re staying for more than three nights in a hotel it’s sometimes possible to negotiate a lower price, particularly out of season.\nNote that many family-run hotels close for two or three weeks a year in the low season. In smaller towns and villages they may also close for one or two nights a week, usually Sunday or Monday. Details are given where relevant in the text, but dates change from year to year; the best precaution is to phone ahead to be sure.\nHôtel de Roubaix\n. This family-run budget hotel has been around for years (and started to look like it), but it's been given a complete lift with a bright new refurb. Vintage furniture and chandeliers are still dotted about the 53 small rooms, but the overall look is contemporary with a quirky touch lent by comic-book art on the walls. The staff are very welcoming and the location is pretty quiet, yet close to all the Marais action and the Pompidou Centre.\nHôtel De La Porte Dorée\n. A welcoming, family-friendly hotel tastefully refurbished by an American–French family. Preserves period features such as ceiling mouldings and fireplaces, and many of the furnishings are antique, but all rooms have private shower or bath, TV and comfy beds.\nHôtel Saint-Charles\n. Located in the Butte-aux-Cailles quarter of Paris, just 1 km from Parc Montsouris, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and a bar with a terrace. The hotel’s reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Additional facilities available at the Saint-Charles include luggage storage and free newspapers.\nFor inspiration, also have a read of our\n30 best places to visit with children\n.\nThe Eiffel Tower from the carousel © Shutterstock\nReady for your trip to\nParis\n? Check out the snapshot\nPocket Rough Guide to Paris\nor\nthe Rough Guides to France\n. \nIf you prefer to plan and book your trip to Paris without any effort and hassle,\nuse the expertise of our local travel experts\nto make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.\nRough Guides tip:\nFind out which season is best for your Paris trip in\nour guide to the best time to travel to France\n.\nWe may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.","attrs_markdown":"[How it works](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/tailor-made-travel\/)\n\n- [Why travel tailor-made?](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/tailor-made-travel\/)\n- [Reviews](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/reviews\/)\n- [Enquire now](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/enquiry\/?last_page_type=unknown-page-type)\n\n[Trip Ideas](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/trips\/)\n\n[Destinations](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/destinations\/)\n\n- [Africa](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/africa\/)\n- [Asia](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/asia\/)\n- [Australasia](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/australasia\/)\n- [Central America & the Caribbean](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/central-america-and-the-caribbean\/)\n- [Europe](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/europe\/)\n- [Middle East](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/middle-east\/)\n- [North America](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/north-america\/)\n- [South America](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/south-america\/)\n\n[Travel Experts](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/travel-agents\/)\n\n[Bookshop](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/listing)\n\n- [Travel Guides](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/listing)\n- [Language Guides](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/listing)\n- [New Releases](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/releases)\n\nMenu\n\n# Best area to stay in Paris for first time visitors\n**Plan and book** your private, tailor-made tour with vetted local experts\n\n- [roughguides.com](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/)\n- [blog](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/blog\/)\n- an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\n\nOur France tips\n\n- [![france-st-michel-shutterstock\\_1009366750](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/thumbnail_france-st-michel-shutterstock_1009366750_b15bb54183.jpeg)France Travel Guide](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/)\n- [![eiffel-tower-pont-des-arts-seine-river-paris-france-shutterstock\\_731364700](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/thumbnail_eiffel-tower-pont-des-arts-seine-river-paris-france-shutterstock_731364700_48946dcb00.jpeg)France Travel Itineraries](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/itineraries\/)\n- [![Chateau-de-Sully-sur-Loire-france-shutterstock\\_256935376](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/thumbnail_chateau-de-sully-sur-loire-france-shutterstock_256935376_9b9f71f73b.jpeg)How to plan a trip to France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/how-to-plan-a-trip\/)\n- [![Colmar, France © canadastock\/Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/thumbnail_colmar-alsace-france-shutterstock_604232009.jpg_e1ecbd1843.jpg)Best time to visit France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/)\n- [![stained-glass-windows-sainte-chapelle-royal-medieval-chapel-paris-france-shutterstock\\_347791925](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/thumbnail_stained-glass-windows-sainte-chapelle-royal-medieval-chapel-paris-france-shutterstock_347791925_c44970c1f4.jpeg)France travel map](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/map\/)\n- [![Lavender in Plateau de Valensole, Provence, France © Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/thumbnail_chapel-lavender-field-plateau-de-valensole-provence-france-shutterstock_34226122.jpg_027cfddf7a.jpg)Best Places To Visit In France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/best-places-to-visit\/)\n- [![france-st-michel-shutterstock\\_1009366750](https:\/\/apa-blog-images.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/user-images\/1696330022387_userImage_PXL_20230929_084537407.PORTRAIT.jpg)France Local Experts](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/travel-experts\/)\n\nAll the clichés about [Paris](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/) are true – stylish, romantic, glamorous and utterly compelling. Yet it retains surprises that continue to delight even the most seasoned visitors. The landscape of the city changes as you cross from quartier to quartier. From historic St-Germain to the vibrant Marais, Paris is abuzz with bars and cafés.\n\nBut where should you base yourself when you visit? With so many [France accommodations](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/accommodation\/) on offer – from chic apartments to grand hotels and hidden courtyard stays – it’s worth knowing the character of each neighborhood. Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, this guide will help you pick the best area to stay in Paris.\n\n- [What is the best area to stay in Paris?](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#what-is-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- [Best for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-shopping-and-dining-around-the-champs-elysees)\n- [The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-central-area-marais)\n- [Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-budget-friendly-quartier-latin)\n- [Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-a-bohemian-atmosphere-st-germain)\n- [The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-couples-montmartre)\n- [Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-a-hip-vibe-canal-st-martin-and-la-villette)\n- [Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#paris-best-cosmopolitan-area-belleville-and-menilmontant)\n- [Best for luxury: Le Louvre](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-luxury-le-louvre)\n- [Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-local-vibe-south-pigalle)\n- [Where to stay in Paris with kids](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#where-to-stay-in-paris-with-kids)\n\n## What is the best area to stay in Paris?\nWe'll delve into greater detail below, but for a quick summary:\n\n- **Champs-Elysées:** A central, luxurious area with world-famous landmarks and high-end shopping, but crowded and expensive.\n- **Marais:** A charming historic district with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife, though it can be noisy and crowded.\n- **Quartier Latin:** A budget-friendly area with a rich history and student atmosphere, offering affordable dining options but some parts can feel touristy.\n- **St-Germain:** An upscale neighbourhood known for its intellectual history and charming cafés, but can be expensive and crowded.\n- **Montmartre:** A romantic, artistic quarter with stunning city views, though its hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate.\n- **Canal St-Martin and La Villette:** A trendy area with a local feel, featuring picturesque canals and hip cafés, but further from main tourist attractions.\n- **Belleville and Ménilmontant:** A diverse, vibrant area with an authentic local atmosphere and great street art, though it can feel rough around the edges.\n- **Le Louvre:** Home to the world-famous museum and close to major attractions, but very touristy and extremely crowded.\n- **South Pigalle:** A hip area with trendy bars and restaurants offering an authentic Parisian feel, but with limited major tourist attractions nearby.\n\n**Looking for vacation ideas in France?** Check out [our 7-day France itinerary](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/7-days-in-france-itinerary\/) - you might like it\\!\n\n## Best for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** Central Paris, 8th arrondissement\n- **Pros:** World-famous landmarks, luxury shopping, and fine dining\n- **Cons:** Crowded with tourists and expensive\n\nYou’ll find some of the city’s most famous landmarks around the [Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/), including the Place de la Concorde, Tuileries Gardens and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s also one of the most exclusive parts of Paris, home to an array of luxury hotels and high-fashion shops. The avenue itself stretches for 1.9 kilometres (1.2 miles) and is lined with horse-chestnut trees.\n\nAt the lower end of the ChampsElysées is the Grand Palais — a grandiose Neoclassical building with a fine glass and ironwork cupola. It was created for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. The cupola forms the centrepiece of the nef (nave) — a huge, impressive exhibition space, used for large-scale installations, fashion shows and trade fairs.\n\nNearby, you'll find the Petit Palais, which houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. For music lovers, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées offers a rich program of classical music, opera, and dance performances.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"At night, the Champs-Elysées comes alive with illuminated storefronts and the twinkling lights of passing cars. It really feels like the 'City of Lights' when I'm here.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **For a boutique stay:**\n  [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This elegant hotel offers a perfect blend of Parisian charm and modern comfort, steps away from the iconic avenue.\n- **For luxury**:\n  [Tilsitt Etoile Paris](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/tilsitt-etoile-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This opulent hotel provides a lavish experience with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe.\n- **For convenience:**\n  [Marceau Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/marceau-champs-elysees.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, this hotel offers easy access to the area's best shopping and attractions.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?landmark=900053798&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_496643884](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_496643884_07075012e0.jpeg)\n\n*Triumphal Arch in Paris © Sergey Molchenko\/Shutterstock*\n\n## The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Hotel Meslay Republique](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** Right bank of the Seine, spanning parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements\n- **Pros:** Charming historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife\n- **Cons:** Can be crowded and noisy, especially on weekends\n\nFull of splendid old mansions, narrow lanes, designer boutiques and buzzing bars and restaurants, the [Marais](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-marais-paris\/) is one of Paris’s more striking *quartiers*. This chic district also holds a slew of sleek galleries, and the old Jewish quarter centred on rue des Rosiers. You'll also find here a number of excellent museums, not least the splendid Musée Picasso.\n\nThe Centre Pompidou’s radical “inside-out” architecture looks just as ground-breaking as it did when it first opened in the 1970s, and its modern art museum is a knockout.\n\nThe opening of the Centre Pompidou gave rise to some violent reactions. Since then, however, it has won over critics and the public alike. Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers freed up maximum space inside by placing all infrastructure outside.\n\nThe transparent escalator on the front of the building, giving access to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, affords [superb views over the city.](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/alternative-paris-off-the-beaten-track\/)\n\n**Why I love it:** *My favourite part of Marais is the Place des Vosges, at the eastern end of rue des Francs-Bourgeois. It is a masterpiece of aristocratic elegance. I just love the symmetrical pink brick and stone mansions built over arcades.*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for couples:**\n  [Hotel Meslay Republique](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This intimate hotel offers cosy rooms and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a Parisian getaway.\n- **Best for history buffs:**\n  [Hôtel De Nice](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-nice.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel captures the essence of old-world Paris with modern amenities.\n- **Best for art lovers:**\n  [Hotel Rivoli](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/rivoli-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Surrounded by galleries and museums, this stylish hotel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the Marais art scene.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations in Marais](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7918&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_1406155655](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_1406155655_3c6f37e918.jpeg)\n\n*Voges Square in Marais, Paris © Tommy YUN\/Shutterstock*\n\n## Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** 5th and parts of the 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine\n- **Pros:** Rich in history, student-friendly atmosphere, and affordable dining options\n- **Con:** Some areas can feel touristy and lack the luxury of other Parisian districts\n\nThe [Quartier Latin](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-latin-quarter-paris\/) has been associated with students ever since the Sorbonne was established in the thirteenth century. Many colleges remain in the area to this day, along with some [fascinating vestiges](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/) of the medieval city.\n\nSome of the quarter’s student chic may have worn thin in recent years as [rents have risen](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/how-to-see-paris-on-a-budget\/), but this is still one of the most relaxed areas of Paris.\n\nJust off “La Mouff” — the city’s famed rue Mouffetard market has now mostly given over to classy food shops. This authentic market is set around the pretty Monge fountain and sells fabulous, pricey produce. Organic stalls on Sundays.\n\nThe Latin Quarter's budget-friendly reputation extends to its many affordable bookshops, including the famous Shakespeare and Company. This historic English-language bookstore has been a haven for writers and book lovers since 1951.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"My favourite part of the Quartier Latin is the botanical garden — Jardin des Plantes. It started in 1626 as a royal garden of medicinal plants, it now includes a small zoo, greenhouses, and the Natural History Museum.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This charming hotel offers a quintessential Parisian experience in the heart of the Latin Quarter.\n- **Best for budget travellers:**\n  [Hôtel du Mont Blanc](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/du-mont-blanc.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Offering comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, this hotel is perfect for those looking to save on lodging.\n- **Best for spa lovers:**\n  [Hotel Les Bulles De Paris](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/les-bulles-de-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This unique hotel features a champagne-themed spa, offering a luxurious twist to your Latin Quarter stay.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations near Quartier Latin](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7970&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_446911948](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_446911948_1501001874.jpeg)\n\n*Where to stay in Paris? Quartier Latin © Shutterstock*\n\n## Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [L’Hôtel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2)\n- **Location:** 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine\n- **Pros:** Intellectual history, charming cafés, and upscale shopping\n- **Cons:** Can be expensive and crowded with tourists\n\n[St-Germain](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/), the westernmost section of Paris’s Left Bank, has long been famous as the haunt of bohemians and intellectuals. A few famous cafés preserve a strong flavour of the old times, but the dominant spirit these days is elegant, relaxed and seriously upmarket.\n\nFronting onto rue de Vaugirard, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the chief green space of the Left Bank. At the centre, the round pond and immaculate floral parterres are overlooked by the haughty Palais du Luxembourg, the seat of the French Senate.\n\nThe Rue de Seine and Rue Jacob are particularly known for their high-end art dealers and galleries. For a taste of the area's intellectual history, visit the famous Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, once frequented by philosophers and writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"To me, I prefer to go to St-Germain to see the local up-and-coming artists. École des Beaux-Arts is here and is one of the most influential art schools in France. Its beautiful courtyard is open to the public and often hosts exhibitions of student work.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a quirky boutique:**\n  [L’Hôtel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2)\n  . This hotel epitomizes louche Left Bank opulence, with twenty sumptuous rooms. Located in the historical district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this 5-star hotel features a hammam and an indoor swimming pool.\n- **Best for luxury:**\n  [Hotel De Seine](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This upscale hotel offers sophisticated accommodations in one of Paris's most fashionable neighbourhoods.\n- **Best for families:**\n  [Villa Des Princes](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/hoteldesecoles.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . With spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel is ideal for families exploring the Left Bank.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations near St-Germain](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=11213&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_183599468](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_183599468_472be47e40.jpeg)\n\n*St. Germain, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Hotel Boronali](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  .\n- **Location:** 18th arrondissement, on a hill in northern Paris\n- **Pros:** Romantic atmosphere, stunning city views, and artistic heritage\n- **Cons:** Hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues\n\nOne of Paris’s most romantic quarters, Montmartre is famed for its association with artists like Renoir, Degas, Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec. It long existed as a hilltop village outside the city walls, and today the steep streets around the Butte Montmartre, Paris’s highest point, preserve an attractively village-like atmosphere.\n\nThough The Moulin Rouge's environs have lost the glamour they once had, you can’t help but be drawn towards the tatty red windmill. Its windows are filled with photos of beaming showgirls.\n\nWhen Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized the Moulin Rouge in his paintings, it was one of many such bawdy, populist cabarets in the area. Nowadays, it survives on its reputation, offering expensive Vegas-style dinner-and-show deals.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"I love taking a stroll around Musée de Montmartre. The museum's gardens offer stunning views of the only vineyard left in Paris, the Clos Montmartre.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay**:\n  [Hotel Boronali](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This stylish hotel offers contemporary design with a nod to Montmartre's artistic heritage.\n- **Best for views:**\n  [Hotel Luxia](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/luxia.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Perched on the hill of Montmartre, this hotel offers breathtaking panoramas of Paris.\n- **Best for romance:**\n  [Hôtel des Arts Montmartre](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/hoteldesarts.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . With its cosy rooms and artistic flair, this hotel captures the romantic essence of Montmartre.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations near Montmarte](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?city=-1456928&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_1285435696](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_1285435696_7b07c46322.jpeg)\n\n*The Place du Tertre and the Sacre-Coeur, quarter Montmartre in Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  .\n- **Location:** Northeastern Paris, spanning parts of the 10th and 19th arrondissements\n- **Pros:** Trendy cafés, picturesque canal, and a more local feel\n- **Cons:** Further from main tourist attractions and can feel less polished than central areas\n\nLa Villette and the Canal St-Martin, in the northeast of the city, were for generations the centre of a densely populated working-class district. Since then, they have undergone extensive renovation.\n\nToday the *quais* have been made more appealing to cyclists, rollerbladers and pedestrians and the area is peppered with trendy cafés and bars. For those who like an up-and-coming vibe, this a where to stay in Paris.\n\nThe Canal St-Martin area is known for its iron footbridges and tree-lined quays, perfect for picnics or evening strolls. On Sundays, the roads along the canal are closed to cars.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"This area is also home to some of Paris's best street art, particularly around Rue de l'Ourcq.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay**:\n  [ibis Paris La Villette Cité des Sciences 19ème](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/ibis-paris-la-villette-cita-c-des-sciences.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie.\n- **Best for long stays**:\n  [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . These well-equipped apartments are perfect for extended stays in this trendy area.\n- **Best for canal views:**\n  [Hôtel du Quai de Seine](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/du-quai-de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This charming hotel offers picturesque views of the Canal Saint-Martin.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation near Canal St-Martin](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?landmark=56479&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_1027387528](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_1027387528_24f0a159bd.jpeg)\n\n*Canal Saint-Martin, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Hotel Scarlett](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** Eastern Paris, primarily in the 20th arrondissement\n- **Pros:** Diverse culture, authentic local atmosphere, and great street art\n- **Cons:** Less touristy amenities and can feel rough around the edges in some parts\n\nNortheastern Paris, comprising the Canal St-Martin, Belleville, Ménilmontant and La Villette, is one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of the city. It is home to sizeable ethnic populations, as well as students and artists.\n\nYou won't want to miss Père-Lachaise cemetery, the final resting place of numerous famous artists and writers. Or worth seeing is the leafy Canal St-Martin, with its trendy cafés and bars.\n\nSome of the city’s best nightlife is concentrated on rues Oberkampf and Jean-Pierre Timbaud. While two attractive parks, the Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de Belleville, reward visitors with fine views over the city.\n\n**Dreaming of a holiday in France?** Start planning your trip by finding out [how to get there](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/getting-there\/).\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"This is where you'll find my favourite panoramic view of Paris. If you climb to the top of Parc de Belleville, it's a less crowded alternative to the Sacré-Cœur viewpoint.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Hotel Scarlett](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This design-forward hotel captures the creative spirit of the neighbourhood.\n- **Best for budget travellers:**\n  [Hotel des Pyrénées](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/des-pyra-c-na-c-es.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This no-frills hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable prices.\n- **Best for business travellers:**\n  [Novotel Paris 20 Belleville](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/novotel-paris-20-belleville.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . With its modern amenities and business facilities, this hotel caters well to those travelling for work.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation in Belleville](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7952&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n## Best for luxury: Le Louvre\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Villa-des-Prés](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** 1st arrondissement, central Paris\n- **Pros:** Home to world-famous museum and close to many major attractions\n- **Cons:** Very touristy and can be extremely crowded, especially during peak seasons\n\nThe Louvre is one of the world’s truly great museums. Opened in 1793, during the Revolution, it soon acquired the largest art collection on earth, thanks to Napoleon’s conquests.\n\nToday, it houses paintings, sculptures and precious art objects, from Ancient Egyptian jewellery to the beginnings of Impressionism. Separate from the Louvre proper, but within the palace, is the museum Les Arts Décoratifs.\n\nThe largest of the museum’s collections is its paintings. The early Italians are perhaps the most interesting, among them Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you want to get near her, go during one of the evening openings, or first thing in the day. Other highlights of the Italian collection include two Botticelli frescoes and Fra Angelico’s Coronation of the Virgin.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"This area is great for shopping. Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme are my picks for the best high-end jewellery stores and fashion boutiques in Paris.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Villa-des-Prés](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This elegant hotel offers a tranquil retreat just steps away from the bustling Louvre area.\n- **Best for history lovers:**\n  [Hôtel du Cygne Paris](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/du-cygne-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel offers a taste of Parisian history.\n- **Best for art enthusiasts:**\n  [Hôtel de Lille](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/hoteldelille.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This stylish hotel features art-inspired decor, perfectly complementing its proximity to world-class museums.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Louvre](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?landmark=935&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![Louvre museum, Paris © Tijl De Meulemeester\/Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/louvre-paris-shutterstock_1631464591_885ae4bc90.jpeg)\n\n*Louvre, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Sonder Le Frochot](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** 9th arrondissement, just south of Montmartre\n- **Pros:** Hip bars, trendy restaurants, and a more authentic Parisian feel\n- **Cons:** Limited major tourist attractions in the immediate area\n\nSouth Pigalle, or \"SoPi,\" has transformed from a red-light district to one of Paris's trendiest neighborhoods. It's known for its excellent cocktail bars, like Dirty Dick and Glass, which are at the forefront of Paris's craft cocktail scene.\n\nRues de Douai, Victor-Massé and Houdon sport a large number of electric guitar and hi-fi shops. Rue des Martyrs is one of Paris’s most enjoyable gastro-streets.\n\nMusic lovers should visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a charming museum dedicated to the Romantic era, with a particular focus on George Sand. The museum's tearoom in the garden is a hidden gem. For a taste of old Pigalle, visit the Musée de l'Érotisme, which offers a unique perspective on the area's risqué history.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"South Pigalle's charm lies in its architecture. I recommend you take a stroll down Rue Victor Massé to admire the ornate façades and wrought-iron balconies.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Sonder Le Frochot](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This trendy hotel captures the hip vibe of South Pigalle with its modern design and amenities.\n- **Best for nightlife:**\n  [Le Pigalle](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/le-pigalle-paris2.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This vibrant hotel is at the heart of the neighbourhood's bustling bar and restaurant scene.\n- **Best for budget travellers:**\n  [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This charming budget hotel offers a taste of local Parisian life without breaking the bank.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation in South Pigalle](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7954&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/moulin-rouge-paris-shutterstock_2111981876.jpg_10f17bf84f.jpg)\n\n*Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Where to stay in Paris with kids\nBig cities tend to have a good variety of cheap establishments. In small towns and rural areas, you may not be so lucky, particularly as the cheaper, family-run hotels find it increasingly hard to survive.\n\nSwanky resorts, particularly those on the Côte d’Azur, have very high prices in July and August, but even these are still cheaper than Paris. If you’re staying for more than three nights in a hotel it’s sometimes possible to negotiate a lower price, particularly out of season.\n\nNote that many family-run hotels close for two or three weeks a year in the low season. In smaller towns and villages they may also close for one or two nights a week, usually Sunday or Monday. Details are given where relevant in the text, but dates change from year to year; the best precaution is to phone ahead to be sure.\n\n- [Hôtel de Roubaix](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-roubaix.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). This family-run budget hotel has been around for years (and started to look like it), but it's been given a complete lift with a bright new refurb. Vintage furniture and chandeliers are still dotted about the 53 small rooms, but the overall look is contemporary with a quirky touch lent by comic-book art on the walls. The staff are very welcoming and the location is pretty quiet, yet close to all the Marais action and the Pompidou Centre.\n- [Hôtel De La Porte Dorée](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-la-porte-doree-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). A welcoming, family-friendly hotel tastefully refurbished by an American–French family. Preserves period features such as ceiling mouldings and fireplaces, and many of the furnishings are antique, but all rooms have private shower or bath, TV and comfy beds.\n- [Hôtel Saint-Charles](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/saint-charles-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). Located in the Butte-aux-Cailles quarter of Paris, just 1 km from Parc Montsouris, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and a bar with a terrace. The hotel’s reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Additional facilities available at the Saint-Charles include luggage storage and free newspapers.\n\nFor inspiration, also have a read of our [30 best places to visit with children](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/the-30-best-places-to-go-with-kids\/).\n\n![© Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/carousel-eiffel-tower-paris-shutterstock_137270147.jpg_7e61049a67.jpg)\n\n*The Eiffel Tower from the carousel © Shutterstock*\n\nReady for your trip to [Paris](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/)? Check out the snapshot [Pocket Rough Guide to Paris](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/book\/pocket-rough-guide-paris\/9781789196177) or [the Rough Guides to France](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/book\/the-rough-guide-to-france\/9781789196269).\n\nIf you prefer to plan and book your trip to Paris without any effort and hassle, [use the expertise of our local travel experts](https:\/\/go.roughguides.com\/tailor-made-trips) to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.\n\n**Rough Guides tip:** Find out which season is best for your Paris trip in [our guide to the best time to travel to France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/).\n\n*We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.*\n\n[![Dre Roelandt](https:\/\/strapi-images-prod.s3.us-west-1.amazonaws.com\/thumbnail_Andrea_Roelandt_6d80f2b79b.png)](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/author\/dre-roelandt\/)\n\nwritten by   \n[Dre Roelandt](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/author\/dre-roelandt\/)\n\nupdated 11.04.2025\n\nShare[![facebook](https:\/\/apa-blog-images.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/public\/images\/fbMockImage.png)](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.roughguides.com%2Farticle%2Fan-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris%2F)[![twitter](https:\/\/apa-blog-images.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com\/public\/images\/twMockImage.png)](https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.roughguides.com%2Farticle%2Fan-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris%2F)\n\nDre Roelandt is originally from the United States but lives and works in Berlin, Germany. They are an in-house senior editor at Rough Guides. Dre is a writer and fine artist with a passion for travelling.\n\nread more\n\n- Nightlife\n- Museums\n- Where to Stay\n- Art\n- Europe\n- [France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/)\n- Paris\n- [Inspiration](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/blog\/inspiration\/)\n- [See & Do](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/blog\/see-do\/)\n- [Travel Advice](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/blog\/travel-advice\/)\n- [Where to stay](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/blog\/where-to-stay\/)\n- [Local Guides](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/blog\/local-guides\/)\n\n### Planning your own trip? Prepare for your trip\nUse Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates\n\n[Flights](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/bookings\/flights\/)\n\n[Accommodation](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/bookings\/accommodation\/)\n\n[Rent a car](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/bookings\/car-rental\/)\n\n[Experiences](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/bookings\/experiences\/)\n\n[Insurance](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/bookings\/insurance\/)\n\n### Travel advice for France\nFrom travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for visiting France\n\n- [Getting around France: Transportation Tips](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/getting-around\/)\n- [France travel tips for first-timers: What to know](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/travel-tips\/)\n- [How to get to France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/getting-there\/)\n- [Weather in France in October](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/october\/)\n- [Weather in France in September](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/september\/)\n- [Weather in France in November](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/november\/)\n- [Weather in France in December](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/december\/)\n- [Weather in France in January](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/january\/)\n- [Weather in France in February](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/february\/)\n- [Weather in France in March](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/march\/)\n- [Weather in France in April](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/april\/)\n- [Weather in France in May](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/may\/)\n- [Weather in France in June](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/june\/)\n- [The best 10-day France itinerary](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/itineraries\/10-days\/)\n- [Weather in France in July](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/july\/)\n- [Weather in France in August](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/august\/)\n- [The best Northern France itinerary](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/itineraries\/northern-france\/)\n- [How to plan a trip to France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/how-to-plan-a-trip\/)\n- [Paris city break](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/paris-city-break\/)\n\n## Find even more inspiration for France here\nDiscover France's most captivating stories\n\n[Tailor‑made Disneyland Paris family trip](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/trips\/disneyland-paris-family-trip\/)\n\n[France guided tour: the Liberation Route](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/trips\/france-guided-tour-liberation-route\/)\n\n[Northern France tour: Paris, Normandy and Brittany](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/trips\/paris-normandy-brittany-tour\/)\n\n[Paris France tour with romantic city experiences](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/trips\/paris-france-romantic-tour\/)\n\n[France Travel Guide](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/)\n\n## Ready to travel and discover France?\n### Get support from our local experts for   stress-free planning & worry-free travels\n[Start planning ⤍](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/enquiry\/?last_page_type=where_to_stay&country=france)\n\n[![Rough Guides Portal](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/logo-orange.svg)](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/)\n\nWe support you to make the most of your time on earth\n\nFollow us on\n\nAbout us\n\n- [About Rough Guides](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/about-us\/)\n- [Bookshop](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/listing\/)\n- [Contact us](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/contact-us\/)\n- [FAQs](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/faqs\/)\n- [Work with us](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/work-with-us\/)\n- [Blog](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/blog\/)\n\nTop Destinations\n\n- [Italy](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/italy\/)\n- [Portugal](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/portugal\/)\n- [Croatia](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/croatia\/)\n- [Iceland](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/iceland\/)\n- [Costa Rica](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/costa-rica\/)\n- [Scotland](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/scotland\/)\n- [Argentina](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/argentina\/)\n\nTailor-made travel\n\n- [How it works](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/tailor-made-travel\/)\n- [Traveler Trip Reviews](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/reviews\/)\n- [Booking Protection Policy](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/booking-protection-policy\/)\n- [Referral Program](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/rough-guides-referral-program\/)\n\nCopyright © 2026 Apa Digital AG, all rights reserved. No parts of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Our [Terms & Conditions](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/terms-conditions\/) and [Privacy & Cookies Policy apply](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/privacy-cookies\/).\n\nThis site is owned by Apa Digital AG, Bahnhofplatz 6, 8854 Siebnen, Switzerland. Rough Guides® is a trademark owned by Apa Group with its headquarters at 7 Bell Yard London WC2A 2JR, United Kingdom.","attrs_readable_markdown":"All the clichés about [Paris](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/) are true – stylish, romantic, glamorous and utterly compelling. Yet it retains surprises that continue to delight even the most seasoned visitors. The landscape of the city changes as you cross from quartier to quartier. From historic St-Germain to the vibrant Marais, Paris is abuzz with bars and cafés.\n\nBut where should you base yourself when you visit? With so many [France accommodations](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/accommodation\/) on offer – from chic apartments to grand hotels and hidden courtyard stays – it’s worth knowing the character of each neighborhood. Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, this guide will help you pick the best area to stay in Paris.\n\n- [What is the best area to stay in Paris?](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#what-is-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- [Best for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-shopping-and-dining-around-the-champs-elysees)\n- [The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-central-area-marais)\n- [Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-budget-friendly-quartier-latin)\n- [Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-a-bohemian-atmosphere-st-germain)\n- [The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-couples-montmartre)\n- [Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-a-hip-vibe-canal-st-martin-and-la-villette)\n- [Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#paris-best-cosmopolitan-area-belleville-and-menilmontant)\n- [Best for luxury: Le Louvre](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-for-luxury-le-louvre)\n- [Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-local-vibe-south-pigalle)\n- [Where to stay in Paris with kids](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/article\/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris\/#where-to-stay-in-paris-with-kids)\n\nWe'll delve into greater detail below, but for a quick summary:\n\n- **Champs-Elysées:** A central, luxurious area with world-famous landmarks and high-end shopping, but crowded and expensive.\n- **Marais:** A charming historic district with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife, though it can be noisy and crowded.\n- **Quartier Latin:** A budget-friendly area with a rich history and student atmosphere, offering affordable dining options but some parts can feel touristy.\n- **St-Germain:** An upscale neighbourhood known for its intellectual history and charming cafés, but can be expensive and crowded.\n- **Montmartre:** A romantic, artistic quarter with stunning city views, though its hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate.\n- **Canal St-Martin and La Villette:** A trendy area with a local feel, featuring picturesque canals and hip cafés, but further from main tourist attractions.\n- **Belleville and Ménilmontant:** A diverse, vibrant area with an authentic local atmosphere and great street art, though it can feel rough around the edges.\n- **Le Louvre:** Home to the world-famous museum and close to major attractions, but very touristy and extremely crowded.\n- **South Pigalle:** A hip area with trendy bars and restaurants offering an authentic Parisian feel, but with limited major tourist attractions nearby.\n\n**Looking for vacation ideas in France?** Check out [our 7-day France itinerary](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/7-days-in-france-itinerary\/) - you might like it\\!\n\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** Central Paris, 8th arrondissement\n- **Pros:** World-famous landmarks, luxury shopping, and fine dining\n- **Cons:** Crowded with tourists and expensive\n\nYou’ll find some of the city’s most famous landmarks around the [Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/), including the Place de la Concorde, Tuileries Gardens and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s also one of the most exclusive parts of Paris, home to an array of luxury hotels and high-fashion shops. The avenue itself stretches for 1.9 kilometres (1.2 miles) and is lined with horse-chestnut trees.\n\nAt the lower end of the ChampsElysées is the Grand Palais — a grandiose Neoclassical building with a fine glass and ironwork cupola. It was created for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. The cupola forms the centrepiece of the nef (nave) — a huge, impressive exhibition space, used for large-scale installations, fashion shows and trade fairs.\n\nNearby, you'll find the Petit Palais, which houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. For music lovers, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées offers a rich program of classical music, opera, and dance performances.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"At night, the Champs-Elysées comes alive with illuminated storefronts and the twinkling lights of passing cars. It really feels like the 'City of Lights' when I'm here.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **For a boutique stay:**\n  [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This elegant hotel offers a perfect blend of Parisian charm and modern comfort, steps away from the iconic avenue.\n- **For luxury**:\n  [Tilsitt Etoile Paris](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/tilsitt-etoile-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This opulent hotel provides a lavish experience with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe.\n- **For convenience:**\n  [Marceau Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/marceau-champs-elysees.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, this hotel offers easy access to the area's best shopping and attractions.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Champs-Elysées](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?landmark=900053798&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_496643884](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_496643884_07075012e0.jpeg)\n\n*Triumphal Arch in Paris © Sergey Molchenko\/Shutterstock*\n\n## The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Hotel Meslay Republique](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** Right bank of the Seine, spanning parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements\n- **Pros:** Charming historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife\n- **Cons:** Can be crowded and noisy, especially on weekends\n\nFull of splendid old mansions, narrow lanes, designer boutiques and buzzing bars and restaurants, the [Marais](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-marais-paris\/) is one of Paris’s more striking *quartiers*. This chic district also holds a slew of sleek galleries, and the old Jewish quarter centred on rue des Rosiers. You'll also find here a number of excellent museums, not least the splendid Musée Picasso.\n\nThe Centre Pompidou’s radical “inside-out” architecture looks just as ground-breaking as it did when it first opened in the 1970s, and its modern art museum is a knockout.\n\nThe opening of the Centre Pompidou gave rise to some violent reactions. Since then, however, it has won over critics and the public alike. Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers freed up maximum space inside by placing all infrastructure outside.\n\nThe transparent escalator on the front of the building, giving access to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, affords [superb views over the city.](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/alternative-paris-off-the-beaten-track\/)\n\n**Why I love it:** *My favourite part of Marais is the Place des Vosges, at the eastern end of rue des Francs-Bourgeois. It is a masterpiece of aristocratic elegance. I just love the symmetrical pink brick and stone mansions built over arcades.*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for couples:**\n  [Hotel Meslay Republique](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This intimate hotel offers cosy rooms and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a Parisian getaway.\n- **Best for history buffs:**\n  [Hôtel De Nice](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-nice.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel captures the essence of old-world Paris with modern amenities.\n- **Best for art lovers:**\n  [Hotel Rivoli](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/rivoli-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Surrounded by galleries and museums, this stylish hotel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the Marais art scene.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations in Marais](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7918&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_1406155655](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_1406155655_3c6f37e918.jpeg)\n\n*Voges Square in Marais, Paris © Tommy YUN\/Shutterstock*\n\n## Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** 5th and parts of the 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine\n- **Pros:** Rich in history, student-friendly atmosphere, and affordable dining options\n- **Con:** Some areas can feel touristy and lack the luxury of other Parisian districts\n\nThe [Quartier Latin](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-latin-quarter-paris\/) has been associated with students ever since the Sorbonne was established in the thirteenth century. Many colleges remain in the area to this day, along with some [fascinating vestiges](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/) of the medieval city.\n\nSome of the quarter’s student chic may have worn thin in recent years as [rents have risen](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/how-to-see-paris-on-a-budget\/), but this is still one of the most relaxed areas of Paris.\n\nJust off “La Mouff” — the city’s famed rue Mouffetard market has now mostly given over to classy food shops. This authentic market is set around the pretty Monge fountain and sells fabulous, pricey produce. Organic stalls on Sundays.\n\nThe Latin Quarter's budget-friendly reputation extends to its many affordable bookshops, including the famous Shakespeare and Company. This historic English-language bookstore has been a haven for writers and book lovers since 1951.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"My favourite part of the Quartier Latin is the botanical garden — Jardin des Plantes. It started in 1626 as a royal garden of medicinal plants, it now includes a small zoo, greenhouses, and the Natural History Museum.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This charming hotel offers a quintessential Parisian experience in the heart of the Latin Quarter.\n- **Best for budget travellers:**\n  [Hôtel du Mont Blanc](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/du-mont-blanc.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Offering comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, this hotel is perfect for those looking to save on lodging.\n- **Best for spa lovers:**\n  [Hotel Les Bulles De Paris](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/les-bulles-de-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This unique hotel features a champagne-themed spa, offering a luxurious twist to your Latin Quarter stay.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations near Quartier Latin](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7970&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_446911948](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_446911948_1501001874.jpeg)\n\n*Where to stay in Paris? Quartier Latin © Shutterstock*\n\n## Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [L’Hôtel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2)\n- **Location:** 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine\n- **Pros:** Intellectual history, charming cafés, and upscale shopping\n- **Cons:** Can be expensive and crowded with tourists\n\n[St-Germain](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/), the westernmost section of Paris’s Left Bank, has long been famous as the haunt of bohemians and intellectuals. A few famous cafés preserve a strong flavour of the old times, but the dominant spirit these days is elegant, relaxed and seriously upmarket.\n\nFronting onto rue de Vaugirard, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the chief green space of the Left Bank. At the centre, the round pond and immaculate floral parterres are overlooked by the haughty Palais du Luxembourg, the seat of the French Senate.\n\nThe Rue de Seine and Rue Jacob are particularly known for their high-end art dealers and galleries. For a taste of the area's intellectual history, visit the famous Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, once frequented by philosophers and writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"To me, I prefer to go to St-Germain to see the local up-and-coming artists. École des Beaux-Arts is here and is one of the most influential art schools in France. Its beautiful courtyard is open to the public and often hosts exhibitions of student work.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a quirky boutique:**\n  [L’Hôtel](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2)\n  . This hotel epitomizes louche Left Bank opulence, with twenty sumptuous rooms. Located in the historical district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this 5-star hotel features a hammam and an indoor swimming pool.\n- **Best for luxury:**\n  [Hotel De Seine](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This upscale hotel offers sophisticated accommodations in one of Paris's most fashionable neighbourhoods.\n- **Best for families:**\n  [Villa Des Princes](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/hoteldesecoles.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . With spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel is ideal for families exploring the Left Bank.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations near St-Germain](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=11213&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_183599468](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_183599468_472be47e40.jpeg)\n\n*St. Germain, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Hotel Boronali](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  .\n- **Location:** 18th arrondissement, on a hill in northern Paris\n- **Pros:** Romantic atmosphere, stunning city views, and artistic heritage\n- **Cons:** Hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues\n\nOne of Paris’s most romantic quarters, Montmartre is famed for its association with artists like Renoir, Degas, Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec. It long existed as a hilltop village outside the city walls, and today the steep streets around the Butte Montmartre, Paris’s highest point, preserve an attractively village-like atmosphere.\n\nThough The Moulin Rouge's environs have lost the glamour they once had, you can’t help but be drawn towards the tatty red windmill. Its windows are filled with photos of beaming showgirls.\n\nWhen Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized the Moulin Rouge in his paintings, it was one of many such bawdy, populist cabarets in the area. Nowadays, it survives on its reputation, offering expensive Vegas-style dinner-and-show deals.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"I love taking a stroll around Musée de Montmartre. The museum's gardens offer stunning views of the only vineyard left in Paris, the Clos Montmartre.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay**:\n  [Hotel Boronali](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This stylish hotel offers contemporary design with a nod to Montmartre's artistic heritage.\n- **Best for views:**\n  [Hotel Luxia](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/luxia.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Perched on the hill of Montmartre, this hotel offers breathtaking panoramas of Paris.\n- **Best for romance:**\n  [Hôtel des Arts Montmartre](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/hoteldesarts.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . With its cosy rooms and artistic flair, this hotel captures the romantic essence of Montmartre.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodations near Montmarte](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?city=-1456928&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_1285435696](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_1285435696_7b07c46322.jpeg)\n\n*The Place du Tertre and the Sacre-Coeur, quarter Montmartre in Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  .\n- **Location:** Northeastern Paris, spanning parts of the 10th and 19th arrondissements\n- **Pros:** Trendy cafés, picturesque canal, and a more local feel\n- **Cons:** Further from main tourist attractions and can feel less polished than central areas\n\nLa Villette and the Canal St-Martin, in the northeast of the city, were for generations the centre of a densely populated working-class district. Since then, they have undergone extensive renovation.\n\nToday the *quais* have been made more appealing to cyclists, rollerbladers and pedestrians and the area is peppered with trendy cafés and bars. For those who like an up-and-coming vibe, this a where to stay in Paris.\n\nThe Canal St-Martin area is known for its iron footbridges and tree-lined quays, perfect for picnics or evening strolls. On Sundays, the roads along the canal are closed to cars.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"This area is also home to some of Paris's best street art, particularly around Rue de l'Ourcq.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay**:\n  [ibis Paris La Villette Cité des Sciences 19ème](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/ibis-paris-la-villette-cita-c-des-sciences.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie.\n- **Best for long stays**:\n  [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . These well-equipped apartments are perfect for extended stays in this trendy area.\n- **Best for canal views:**\n  [Hôtel du Quai de Seine](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/du-quai-de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This charming hotel offers picturesque views of the Canal Saint-Martin.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation near Canal St-Martin](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?landmark=56479&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![shutterstock\\_1027387528](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/shutterstock_1027387528_24f0a159bd.jpeg)\n\n*Canal Saint-Martin, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Hotel Scarlett](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** Eastern Paris, primarily in the 20th arrondissement\n- **Pros:** Diverse culture, authentic local atmosphere, and great street art\n- **Cons:** Less touristy amenities and can feel rough around the edges in some parts\n\nNortheastern Paris, comprising the Canal St-Martin, Belleville, Ménilmontant and La Villette, is one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of the city. It is home to sizeable ethnic populations, as well as students and artists.\n\nYou won't want to miss Père-Lachaise cemetery, the final resting place of numerous famous artists and writers. Or worth seeing is the leafy Canal St-Martin, with its trendy cafés and bars.\n\nSome of the city’s best nightlife is concentrated on rues Oberkampf and Jean-Pierre Timbaud. While two attractive parks, the Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de Belleville, reward visitors with fine views over the city.\n\n**Dreaming of a holiday in France?** Start planning your trip by finding out [how to get there](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/getting-there\/).\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"This is where you'll find my favourite panoramic view of Paris. If you climb to the top of Parc de Belleville, it's a less crowded alternative to the Sacré-Cœur viewpoint.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Hotel Scarlett](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This design-forward hotel captures the creative spirit of the neighbourhood.\n- **Best for budget travellers:**\n  [Hotel des Pyrénées](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/des-pyra-c-na-c-es.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This no-frills hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable prices.\n- **Best for business travellers:**\n  [Novotel Paris 20 Belleville](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/novotel-paris-20-belleville.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . With its modern amenities and business facilities, this hotel caters well to those travelling for work.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation in Belleville](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7952&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n## Best for luxury: Le Louvre\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Villa-des-Prés](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** 1st arrondissement, central Paris\n- **Pros:** Home to world-famous museum and close to many major attractions\n- **Cons:** Very touristy and can be extremely crowded, especially during peak seasons\n\nThe Louvre is one of the world’s truly great museums. Opened in 1793, during the Revolution, it soon acquired the largest art collection on earth, thanks to Napoleon’s conquests.\n\nToday, it houses paintings, sculptures and precious art objects, from Ancient Egyptian jewellery to the beginnings of Impressionism. Separate from the Louvre proper, but within the palace, is the museum Les Arts Décoratifs.\n\nThe largest of the museum’s collections is its paintings. The early Italians are perhaps the most interesting, among them Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you want to get near her, go during one of the evening openings, or first thing in the day. Other highlights of the Italian collection include two Botticelli frescoes and Fra Angelico’s Coronation of the Virgin.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"This area is great for shopping. Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme are my picks for the best high-end jewellery stores and fashion boutiques in Paris.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Villa-des-Prés](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This elegant hotel offers a tranquil retreat just steps away from the bustling Louvre area.\n- **Best for history lovers:**\n  [Hôtel du Cygne Paris](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/du-cygne-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel offers a taste of Parisian history.\n- **Best for art enthusiasts:**\n  [Hôtel de Lille](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/hoteldelille.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This stylish hotel features art-inspired decor, perfectly complementing its proximity to world-class museums.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Louvre](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?landmark=935&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![Louvre museum, Paris © Tijl De Meulemeester\/Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/louvre-paris-shutterstock_1631464591_885ae4bc90.jpeg)\n\n*Louvre, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle\n- **My recommendation:**\n  [Sonder Le Frochot](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n- **Location:** 9th arrondissement, just south of Montmartre\n- **Pros:** Hip bars, trendy restaurants, and a more authentic Parisian feel\n- **Cons:** Limited major tourist attractions in the immediate area\n\nSouth Pigalle, or \"SoPi,\" has transformed from a red-light district to one of Paris's trendiest neighborhoods. It's known for its excellent cocktail bars, like Dirty Dick and Glass, which are at the forefront of Paris's craft cocktail scene.\n\nRues de Douai, Victor-Massé and Houdon sport a large number of electric guitar and hi-fi shops. Rue des Martyrs is one of Paris’s most enjoyable gastro-streets.\n\nMusic lovers should visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a charming museum dedicated to the Romantic era, with a particular focus on George Sand. The museum's tearoom in the garden is a hidden gem. For a taste of old Pigalle, visit the Musée de l'Érotisme, which offers a unique perspective on the area's risqué history.\n\n**Why I love it:** *\"South Pigalle's charm lies in its architecture. I recommend you take a stroll down Rue Victor Massé to admire the ornate façades and wrought-iron balconies.\"*\n\n### Where to stay in this area\n- **Best for a boutique stay:**\n  [Sonder Le Frochot](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This trendy hotel captures the hip vibe of South Pigalle with its modern design and amenities.\n- **Best for nightlife:**\n  [Le Pigalle](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/le-pigalle-paris2.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This vibrant hotel is at the heart of the neighbourhood's bustling bar and restaurant scene.\n- **Best for budget travellers:**\n  [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris)\n  . This charming budget hotel offers a taste of local Parisian life without breaking the bank.\n\nOr browse hundreds of [accommodation in South Pigalle](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.en.html?district=7954&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget.\n\n![Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/moulin-rouge-paris-shutterstock_2111981876.jpg_10f17bf84f.jpg)\n\n*Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock*\n\n## Where to stay in Paris with kids\nBig cities tend to have a good variety of cheap establishments. In small towns and rural areas, you may not be so lucky, particularly as the cheaper, family-run hotels find it increasingly hard to survive.\n\nSwanky resorts, particularly those on the Côte d’Azur, have very high prices in July and August, but even these are still cheaper than Paris. If you’re staying for more than three nights in a hotel it’s sometimes possible to negotiate a lower price, particularly out of season.\n\nNote that many family-run hotels close for two or three weeks a year in the low season. In smaller towns and villages they may also close for one or two nights a week, usually Sunday or Monday. Details are given where relevant in the text, but dates change from year to year; the best precaution is to phone ahead to be sure.\n\n- [Hôtel de Roubaix](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-roubaix.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). This family-run budget hotel has been around for years (and started to look like it), but it's been given a complete lift with a bright new refurb. Vintage furniture and chandeliers are still dotted about the 53 small rooms, but the overall look is contemporary with a quirky touch lent by comic-book art on the walls. The staff are very welcoming and the location is pretty quiet, yet close to all the Marais action and the Pompidou Centre.\n- [Hôtel De La Porte Dorée](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/de-la-porte-doree-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). A welcoming, family-friendly hotel tastefully refurbished by an American–French family. Preserves period features such as ceiling mouldings and fireplaces, and many of the furnishings are antique, but all rooms have private shower or bath, TV and comfy beds.\n- [Hôtel Saint-Charles](https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/fr\/saint-charles-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). Located in the Butte-aux-Cailles quarter of Paris, just 1 km from Parc Montsouris, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and a bar with a terrace. The hotel’s reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Additional facilities available at the Saint-Charles include luggage storage and free newspapers.\n\nFor inspiration, also have a read of our [30 best places to visit with children](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/articles\/the-30-best-places-to-go-with-kids\/).\n\n![© Shutterstock](https:\/\/deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net\/carousel-eiffel-tower-paris-shutterstock_137270147.jpg_7e61049a67.jpg)\n\n*The Eiffel Tower from the carousel © Shutterstock*\n\nReady for your trip to [Paris](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/things-to-do-paris\/)? Check out the snapshot [Pocket Rough Guide to Paris](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/book\/pocket-rough-guide-paris\/9781789196177) or [the Rough Guides to France](https:\/\/shop.roughguides.com\/book\/the-rough-guide-to-france\/9781789196269).\n\nIf you prefer to plan and book your trip to Paris without any effort and hassle, [use the expertise of our local travel experts](https:\/\/go.roughguides.com\/tailor-made-trips) to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.\n\n**Rough Guides tip:** Find out which season is best for your Paris trip in [our guide to the best time to travel to France](https:\/\/www.roughguides.com\/france\/when-to-go\/).\n\n*We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.*","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	All the clichés about Paris are true – stylish, romantic, glamorous and utterly compelling. Yet it retains surprises that continue to delight even the most seasoned visitors. The landscape of the city changes as you cross from quartier to quartier. From historic St-Germain to the vibrant Marais, Paris is abuzz with bars and cafés. But where should you base yourself when you visit? With so many France accommodations on offer – from chic apartments to grand hotels and hidden courtyard stays – it’s worth knowing the character of each neighborhood. Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, this guide will help you pick the best area to stay in Paris. What is the best area to stay in Paris? Best for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant Best for luxury: Le Louvre Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle Where to stay in Paris with kids We'll delve into greater detail below, but for a quick summary: Champs-Elysées: A central, luxurious area with world-famous landmarks and high-end shopping, but crowded and expensive. Marais: A charming historic district with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife, though it can be noisy and crowded. Quartier Latin: A budget-friendly area with a rich history and student atmosphere, offering affordable dining options but some parts can feel touristy. St-Germain: An upscale neighbourhood known for its intellectual history and charming cafés, but can be expensive and crowded. Montmartre: A romantic, artistic quarter with stunning city views, though its hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate. Canal St-Martin and La Villette: A trendy area with a local feel, featuring picturesque canals and hip cafés, but further from main tourist attractions. Belleville and Ménilmontant: A diverse, vibrant area with an authentic local atmosphere and great street art, though it can feel rough around the edges. Le Louvre: Home to the world-famous museum and close to major attractions, but very touristy and extremely crowded. South Pigalle: A hip area with trendy bars and restaurants offering an authentic Parisian feel, but with limited major tourist attractions nearby. Looking for vacation ideas in France? Check out our 7-day France itinerary - you might like it! My recommendation: Chalgrin Boutique Hotel Location: Central Paris, 8th arrondissement Pros: World-famous landmarks, luxury shopping, and fine dining Cons: Crowded with tourists and expensive You’ll find some of the city’s most famous landmarks around the Champs-Elysées , including the Place de la Concorde, Tuileries Gardens and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s also one of the most exclusive parts of Paris, home to an array of luxury hotels and high-fashion shops. The avenue itself stretches for 1.9 kilometres (1.2 miles) and is lined with horse-chestnut trees. At the lower end of the ChampsElysées is the Grand Palais — a grandiose Neoclassical building with a fine glass and ironwork cupola. It was created for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. The cupola forms the centrepiece of the nef (nave) — a huge, impressive exhibition space, used for large-scale installations, fashion shows and trade fairs. Nearby, you'll find the Petit Palais, which houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. For music lovers, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées offers a rich program of classical music, opera, and dance performances. Why I love it: "At night, the Champs-Elysées comes alive with illuminated storefronts and the twinkling lights of passing cars. It really feels like the 'City of Lights' when I'm here." Where to stay in this area For a boutique stay: Chalgrin Boutique Hotel . This elegant hotel offers a perfect blend of Parisian charm and modern comfort, steps away from the iconic avenue. For luxury : Tilsitt Etoile Paris . This opulent hotel provides a lavish experience with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe. For convenience: Marceau Champs-Elysées . Located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, this hotel offers easy access to the area's best shopping and attractions. Or browse hundreds of accommodation near the Champs-Elysées at any budget. Triumphal Arch in Paris © Sergey Molchenko/Shutterstock The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais My recommendation: Hotel Meslay Republique Location: Right bank of the Seine, spanning parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements Pros: Charming historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife Cons: Can be crowded and noisy, especially on weekends Full of splendid old mansions, narrow lanes, designer boutiques and buzzing bars and restaurants, the Marais is one of Paris’s more striking quartiers . This chic district also holds a slew of sleek galleries, and the old Jewish quarter centred on rue des Rosiers. You'll also find here a number of excellent museums, not least the splendid Musée Picasso. The Centre Pompidou’s radical “inside-out” architecture looks just as ground-breaking as it did when it first opened in the 1970s, and its modern art museum is a knockout. The opening of the Centre Pompidou gave rise to some violent reactions. Since then, however, it has won over critics and the public alike. Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers freed up maximum space inside by placing all infrastructure outside. The transparent escalator on the front of the building, giving access to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, affords superb views over the city. Why I love it: My favourite part of Marais is the Place des Vosges, at the eastern end of rue des Francs-Bourgeois. It is a masterpiece of aristocratic elegance. I just love the symmetrical pink brick and stone mansions built over arcades. Where to stay in this area Best for couples: Hotel Meslay Republique . This intimate hotel offers cosy rooms and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a Parisian getaway. Best for history buffs: Hôtel De Nice . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel captures the essence of old-world Paris with modern amenities. Best for art lovers: Hotel Rivoli . Surrounded by galleries and museums, this stylish hotel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the Marais art scene. Or browse hundreds of accommodations in Marais at any budget. Voges Square in Marais, Paris © Tommy YUN/Shutterstock Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin My recommendation: Grand Hôtel de Clermont Location: 5th and parts of the 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine Pros: Rich in history, student-friendly atmosphere, and affordable dining options Con: Some areas can feel touristy and lack the luxury of other Parisian districts The Quartier Latin has been associated with students ever since the Sorbonne was established in the thirteenth century. Many colleges remain in the area to this day, along with some fascinating vestiges of the medieval city. Some of the quarter’s student chic may have worn thin in recent years as rents have risen , but this is still one of the most relaxed areas of Paris. Just off “La Mouff” — the city’s famed rue Mouffetard market has now mostly given over to classy food shops. This authentic market is set around the pretty Monge fountain and sells fabulous, pricey produce. Organic stalls on Sundays. The Latin Quarter's budget-friendly reputation extends to its many affordable bookshops, including the famous Shakespeare and Company. This historic English-language bookstore has been a haven for writers and book lovers since 1951. Why I love it: "My favourite part of the Quartier Latin is the botanical garden — Jardin des Plantes. It started in 1626 as a royal garden of medicinal plants, it now includes a small zoo, greenhouses, and the Natural History Museum." Where to stay in this area Best for a boutique stay: Grand Hôtel de Clermont . This charming hotel offers a quintessential Parisian experience in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Best for budget travellers: Hôtel du Mont Blanc . Offering comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, this hotel is perfect for those looking to save on lodging. Best for spa lovers: Hotel Les Bulles De Paris . This unique hotel features a champagne-themed spa, offering a luxurious twist to your Latin Quarter stay. Or browse hundreds of accommodations near Quartier Latin at any budget. Where to stay in Paris? Quartier Latin © Shutterstock Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain My recommendation: L’Hôtel Location: 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine Pros: Intellectual history, charming cafés, and upscale shopping Cons: Can be expensive and crowded with tourists St-Germain , the westernmost section of Paris’s Left Bank, has long been famous as the haunt of bohemians and intellectuals. A few famous cafés preserve a strong flavour of the old times, but the dominant spirit these days is elegant, relaxed and seriously upmarket. Fronting onto rue de Vaugirard, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the chief green space of the Left Bank. At the centre, the round pond and immaculate floral parterres are overlooked by the haughty Palais du Luxembourg, the seat of the French Senate. The Rue de Seine and Rue Jacob are particularly known for their high-end art dealers and galleries. For a taste of the area's intellectual history, visit the famous Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, once frequented by philosophers and writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Why I love it: "To me, I prefer to go to St-Germain to see the local up-and-coming artists. École des Beaux-Arts is here and is one of the most influential art schools in France. Its beautiful courtyard is open to the public and often hosts exhibitions of student work." Where to stay in this area Best for a quirky boutique: L’Hôtel . This hotel epitomizes louche Left Bank opulence, with twenty sumptuous rooms. Located in the historical district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this 5-star hotel features a hammam and an indoor swimming pool. Best for luxury: Hotel De Seine . This upscale hotel offers sophisticated accommodations in one of Paris's most fashionable neighbourhoods. Best for families: Villa Des Princes . With spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel is ideal for families exploring the Left Bank. Or browse hundreds of accommodations near St-Germain at any budget. St. Germain, Paris © Shutterstock The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre My recommendation: Hotel Boronali . Location: 18th arrondissement, on a hill in northern Paris Pros: Romantic atmosphere, stunning city views, and artistic heritage Cons: Hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues One of Paris’s most romantic quarters, Montmartre is famed for its association with artists like Renoir, Degas, Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec. It long existed as a hilltop village outside the city walls, and today the steep streets around the Butte Montmartre, Paris’s highest point, preserve an attractively village-like atmosphere. Though The Moulin Rouge's environs have lost the glamour they once had, you can’t help but be drawn towards the tatty red windmill. Its windows are filled with photos of beaming showgirls. When Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized the Moulin Rouge in his paintings, it was one of many such bawdy, populist cabarets in the area. Nowadays, it survives on its reputation, offering expensive Vegas-style dinner-and-show deals. Why I love it: "I love taking a stroll around Musée de Montmartre. The museum's gardens offer stunning views of the only vineyard left in Paris, the Clos Montmartre." Where to stay in this area Best for a boutique stay : Hotel Boronali . This stylish hotel offers contemporary design with a nod to Montmartre's artistic heritage. Best for views: Hotel Luxia . Perched on the hill of Montmartre, this hotel offers breathtaking panoramas of Paris. Best for romance: Hôtel des Arts Montmartre . With its cosy rooms and artistic flair, this hotel captures the romantic essence of Montmartre. Or browse hundreds of accommodations near Montmarte at any budget. The Place du Tertre and the Sacre-Coeur, quarter Montmartre in Paris © Shutterstock Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette My recommendation: Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette . Location: Northeastern Paris, spanning parts of the 10th and 19th arrondissements Pros: Trendy cafés, picturesque canal, and a more local feel Cons: Further from main tourist attractions and can feel less polished than central areas La Villette and the Canal St-Martin, in the northeast of the city, were for generations the centre of a densely populated working-class district. Since then, they have undergone extensive renovation. Today the quais have been made more appealing to cyclists, rollerbladers and pedestrians and the area is peppered with trendy cafés and bars. For those who like an up-and-coming vibe, this a where to stay in Paris. The Canal St-Martin area is known for its iron footbridges and tree-lined quays, perfect for picnics or evening strolls. On Sundays, the roads along the canal are closed to cars. Why I love it: "This area is also home to some of Paris's best street art, particularly around Rue de l'Ourcq." Where to stay in this area Best for a boutique stay : ibis Paris La Villette Cité des Sciences 19ème . This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. Best for long stays : Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette . These well-equipped apartments are perfect for extended stays in this trendy area. Best for canal views: Hôtel du Quai de Seine . This charming hotel offers picturesque views of the Canal Saint-Martin. Or browse hundreds of accommodation near Canal St-Martin at any budget. Canal Saint-Martin, Paris © Shutterstock Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant My recommendation: Hotel Scarlett Location: Eastern Paris, primarily in the 20th arrondissement Pros: Diverse culture, authentic local atmosphere, and great street art Cons: Less touristy amenities and can feel rough around the edges in some parts Northeastern Paris, comprising the Canal St-Martin, Belleville, Ménilmontant and La Villette, is one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of the city. It is home to sizeable ethnic populations, as well as students and artists. You won't want to miss Père-Lachaise cemetery, the final resting place of numerous famous artists and writers. Or worth seeing is the leafy Canal St-Martin, with its trendy cafés and bars. Some of the city’s best nightlife is concentrated on rues Oberkampf and Jean-Pierre Timbaud. While two attractive parks, the Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de Belleville, reward visitors with fine views over the city. Dreaming of a holiday in France? Start planning your trip by finding out how to get there . Why I love it: "This is where you'll find my favourite panoramic view of Paris. If you climb to the top of Parc de Belleville, it's a less crowded alternative to the Sacré-Cœur viewpoint." Where to stay in this area Best for a boutique stay: Hotel Scarlett . This design-forward hotel captures the creative spirit of the neighbourhood. Best for budget travellers: Hotel des Pyrénées . This no-frills hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable prices. Best for business travellers: Novotel Paris 20 Belleville . With its modern amenities and business facilities, this hotel caters well to those travelling for work. Or browse hundreds of accommodation in Belleville at any budget. Best for luxury: Le Louvre My recommendation: Villa-des-Prés Location: 1st arrondissement, central Paris Pros: Home to world-famous museum and close to many major attractions Cons: Very touristy and can be extremely crowded, especially during peak seasons The Louvre is one of the world’s truly great museums. Opened in 1793, during the Revolution, it soon acquired the largest art collection on earth, thanks to Napoleon’s conquests. Today, it houses paintings, sculptures and precious art objects, from Ancient Egyptian jewellery to the beginnings of Impressionism. Separate from the Louvre proper, but within the palace, is the museum Les Arts Décoratifs. The largest of the museum’s collections is its paintings. The early Italians are perhaps the most interesting, among them Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you want to get near her, go during one of the evening openings, or first thing in the day. Other highlights of the Italian collection include two Botticelli frescoes and Fra Angelico’s Coronation of the Virgin. Why I love it: "This area is great for shopping. Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme are my picks for the best high-end jewellery stores and fashion boutiques in Paris." Where to stay in this area Best for a boutique stay: Villa-des-Prés . This elegant hotel offers a tranquil retreat just steps away from the bustling Louvre area. Best for history lovers: Hôtel du Cygne Paris . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel offers a taste of Parisian history. Best for art enthusiasts: Hôtel de Lille . This stylish hotel features art-inspired decor, perfectly complementing its proximity to world-class museums. Or browse hundreds of accommodation near the Louvre at any budget. Louvre, Paris © Shutterstock Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle My recommendation: Sonder Le Frochot Location: 9th arrondissement, just south of Montmartre Pros: Hip bars, trendy restaurants, and a more authentic Parisian feel Cons: Limited major tourist attractions in the immediate area South Pigalle, or "SoPi," has transformed from a red-light district to one of Paris's trendiest neighborhoods. It's known for its excellent cocktail bars, like Dirty Dick and Glass, which are at the forefront of Paris's craft cocktail scene. Rues de Douai, Victor-Massé and Houdon sport a large number of electric guitar and hi-fi shops. Rue des Martyrs is one of Paris’s most enjoyable gastro-streets. Music lovers should visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a charming museum dedicated to the Romantic era, with a particular focus on George Sand. The museum's tearoom in the garden is a hidden gem. For a taste of old Pigalle, visit the Musée de l'Érotisme, which offers a unique perspective on the area's risqué history. Why I love it: "South Pigalle's charm lies in its architecture. I recommend you take a stroll down Rue Victor Massé to admire the ornate façades and wrought-iron balconies." Where to stay in this area Best for a boutique stay: Sonder Le Frochot . This trendy hotel captures the hip vibe of South Pigalle with its modern design and amenities. Best for nightlife: Le Pigalle . This vibrant hotel is at the heart of the neighbourhood's bustling bar and restaurant scene. Best for budget travellers: Grand Hôtel de Clermont . This charming budget hotel offers a taste of local Parisian life without breaking the bank. Or browse hundreds of accommodation in South Pigalle at any budget. Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock Where to stay in Paris with kids Big cities tend to have a good variety of cheap establishments. In small towns and rural areas, you may not be so lucky, particularly as the cheaper, family-run hotels find it increasingly hard to survive. Swanky resorts, particularly those on the Côte d’Azur, have very high prices in July and August, but even these are still cheaper than Paris. If you’re staying for more than three nights in a hotel it’s sometimes possible to negotiate a lower price, particularly out of season. Note that many family-run hotels close for two or three weeks a year in the low season. In smaller towns and villages they may also close for one or two nights a week, usually Sunday or Monday. Details are given where relevant in the text, but dates change from year to year; the best precaution is to phone ahead to be sure. Hôtel de Roubaix . This family-run budget hotel has been around for years (and started to look like it), but it's been given a complete lift with a bright new refurb. Vintage furniture and chandeliers are still dotted about the 53 small rooms, but the overall look is contemporary with a quirky touch lent by comic-book art on the walls. The staff are very welcoming and the location is pretty quiet, yet close to all the Marais action and the Pompidou Centre. Hôtel De La Porte Dorée . A welcoming, family-friendly hotel tastefully refurbished by an American–French family. Preserves period features such as ceiling mouldings and fireplaces, and many of the furnishings are antique, but all rooms have private shower or bath, TV and comfy beds. Hôtel Saint-Charles . Located in the Butte-aux-Cailles quarter of Paris, just 1 km from Parc Montsouris, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and a bar with a terrace. The hotel’s reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Additional facilities available at the Saint-Charles include luggage storage and free newspapers. For inspiration, also have a read of our 30 best places to visit with children . The Eiffel Tower from the carousel © Shutterstock Ready for your trip to Paris ? Check out the snapshot Pocket Rough Guide to Paris or the Rough Guides to France . If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Paris without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be. Rough Guides tip: Find out which season is best for your Paris trip in our guide to the best time to travel to France . We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.
Markdown	[How it works](https://www.roughguides.com/tailor-made-travel/) - [Why travel tailor-made?](https://www.roughguides.com/tailor-made-travel/) - [Reviews](https://www.roughguides.com/reviews/) - [Enquire now](https://shop.roughguides.com/enquiry/?last_page_type=unknown-page-type) [Trip Ideas](https://www.roughguides.com/trips/) [Destinations](https://www.roughguides.com/destinations/) - [Africa](https://www.roughguides.com/africa/) - [Asia](https://www.roughguides.com/asia/) - [Australasia](https://www.roughguides.com/australasia/) - [Central America & the Caribbean](https://www.roughguides.com/central-america-and-the-caribbean/) - [Europe](https://www.roughguides.com/europe/) - [Middle East](https://www.roughguides.com/middle-east/) - [North America](https://www.roughguides.com/north-america/) - [South America](https://www.roughguides.com/south-america/) [Travel Experts](https://www.roughguides.com/travel-agents/) [Bookshop](https://shop.roughguides.com/listing) - [Travel Guides](https://shop.roughguides.com/listing) - [Language Guides](https://shop.roughguides.com/listing) - [New Releases](https://shop.roughguides.com/releases) Menu # Best area to stay in Paris for first time visitors Plan and book your private, tailor-made tour with vetted local experts - [roughguides.com](https://www.roughguides.com/) - [blog](https://www.roughguides.com/blog/) - an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris Our France tips - [![france-st-michel-shutterstock\_1009366750](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/thumbnail_france-st-michel-shutterstock_1009366750_b15bb54183.jpeg)France Travel Guide](https://www.roughguides.com/france/) - [![eiffel-tower-pont-des-arts-seine-river-paris-france-shutterstock\_731364700](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/thumbnail_eiffel-tower-pont-des-arts-seine-river-paris-france-shutterstock_731364700_48946dcb00.jpeg)France Travel Itineraries](https://www.roughguides.com/france/itineraries/) - [![Chateau-de-Sully-sur-Loire-france-shutterstock\_256935376](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/thumbnail_chateau-de-sully-sur-loire-france-shutterstock_256935376_9b9f71f73b.jpeg)How to plan a trip to France](https://www.roughguides.com/france/how-to-plan-a-trip/) - [![Colmar, France © canadastock/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/thumbnail_colmar-alsace-france-shutterstock_604232009.jpg_e1ecbd1843.jpg)Best time to visit France](https://www.roughguides.com/france/when-to-go/) - [![stained-glass-windows-sainte-chapelle-royal-medieval-chapel-paris-france-shutterstock\_347791925](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/thumbnail_stained-glass-windows-sainte-chapelle-royal-medieval-chapel-paris-france-shutterstock_347791925_c44970c1f4.jpeg)France travel map](https://www.roughguides.com/france/map/) - [![Lavender in Plateau de Valensole, Provence, France © Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/thumbnail_chapel-lavender-field-plateau-de-valensole-provence-france-shutterstock_34226122.jpg_027cfddf7a.jpg)Best Places To Visit In France](https://www.roughguides.com/france/best-places-to-visit/) - [![france-st-michel-shutterstock\_1009366750](https://apa-blog-images.s3-us-west-2.amazonaws.com/user-images/1696330022387_userImage_PXL_20230929_084537407.PORTRAIT.jpg)France Local Experts](https://www.roughguides.com/france/travel-experts/) All the clichés about [Paris](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/) are true – stylish, romantic, glamorous and utterly compelling. Yet it retains surprises that continue to delight even the most seasoned visitors. The landscape of the city changes as you cross from quartier to quartier. From historic St-Germain to the vibrant Marais, Paris is abuzz with bars and cafés. But where should you base yourself when you visit? With so many [France accommodations](https://www.roughguides.com/france/accommodation/) on offer – from chic apartments to grand hotels and hidden courtyard stays – it’s worth knowing the character of each neighborhood. Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, this guide will help you pick the best area to stay in Paris. - [What is the best area to stay in Paris?](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#what-is-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - [Best for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-shopping-and-dining-around-the-champs-elysees) - [The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-central-area-marais) - [Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-budget-friendly-quartier-latin) - [Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-a-bohemian-atmosphere-st-germain) - [The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-couples-montmartre) - [Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-a-hip-vibe-canal-st-martin-and-la-villette) - [Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#paris-best-cosmopolitan-area-belleville-and-menilmontant) - [Best for luxury: Le Louvre](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-luxury-le-louvre) - [Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-local-vibe-south-pigalle) - [Where to stay in Paris with kids](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#where-to-stay-in-paris-with-kids) ## What is the best area to stay in Paris? We'll delve into greater detail below, but for a quick summary: - Champs-Elysées: A central, luxurious area with world-famous landmarks and high-end shopping, but crowded and expensive. - Marais: A charming historic district with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife, though it can be noisy and crowded. - Quartier Latin: A budget-friendly area with a rich history and student atmosphere, offering affordable dining options but some parts can feel touristy. - St-Germain: An upscale neighbourhood known for its intellectual history and charming cafés, but can be expensive and crowded. - Montmartre: A romantic, artistic quarter with stunning city views, though its hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate. - Canal St-Martin and La Villette: A trendy area with a local feel, featuring picturesque canals and hip cafés, but further from main tourist attractions. - Belleville and Ménilmontant: A diverse, vibrant area with an authentic local atmosphere and great street art, though it can feel rough around the edges. - Le Louvre: Home to the world-famous museum and close to major attractions, but very touristy and extremely crowded. - South Pigalle: A hip area with trendy bars and restaurants offering an authentic Parisian feel, but with limited major tourist attractions nearby. Looking for vacation ideas in France? Check out [our 7-day France itinerary](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/7-days-in-france-itinerary/) - you might like it\! ## Best for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées - My recommendation: [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: Central Paris, 8th arrondissement - Pros: World-famous landmarks, luxury shopping, and fine dining - Cons: Crowded with tourists and expensive You’ll find some of the city’s most famous landmarks around the [Champs-Elysées](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/), including the Place de la Concorde, Tuileries Gardens and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s also one of the most exclusive parts of Paris, home to an array of luxury hotels and high-fashion shops. The avenue itself stretches for 1.9 kilometres (1.2 miles) and is lined with horse-chestnut trees. At the lower end of the ChampsElysées is the Grand Palais — a grandiose Neoclassical building with a fine glass and ironwork cupola. It was created for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. The cupola forms the centrepiece of the nef (nave) — a huge, impressive exhibition space, used for large-scale installations, fashion shows and trade fairs. Nearby, you'll find the Petit Palais, which houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. For music lovers, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées offers a rich program of classical music, opera, and dance performances. Why I love it: "At night, the Champs-Elysées comes alive with illuminated storefronts and the twinkling lights of passing cars. It really feels like the 'City of Lights' when I'm here." ### Where to stay in this area - For a boutique stay: [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This elegant hotel offers a perfect blend of Parisian charm and modern comfort, steps away from the iconic avenue. - For luxury: [Tilsitt Etoile Paris](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/tilsitt-etoile-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This opulent hotel provides a lavish experience with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe. - For convenience: [Marceau Champs-Elysées](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/marceau-champs-elysees.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, this hotel offers easy access to the area's best shopping and attractions. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Champs-Elysées](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?landmark=900053798&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_496643884](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_496643884_07075012e0.jpeg) Triumphal Arch in Paris © Sergey Molchenko/Shutterstock ## The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais - My recommendation: [Hotel Meslay Republique](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: Right bank of the Seine, spanning parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements - Pros: Charming historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife - Cons: Can be crowded and noisy, especially on weekends Full of splendid old mansions, narrow lanes, designer boutiques and buzzing bars and restaurants, the [Marais](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-marais-paris/) is one of Paris’s more striking quartiers. This chic district also holds a slew of sleek galleries, and the old Jewish quarter centred on rue des Rosiers. You'll also find here a number of excellent museums, not least the splendid Musée Picasso. The Centre Pompidou’s radical “inside-out” architecture looks just as ground-breaking as it did when it first opened in the 1970s, and its modern art museum is a knockout. The opening of the Centre Pompidou gave rise to some violent reactions. Since then, however, it has won over critics and the public alike. Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers freed up maximum space inside by placing all infrastructure outside. The transparent escalator on the front of the building, giving access to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, affords [superb views over the city.](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/alternative-paris-off-the-beaten-track/) Why I love it: My favourite part of Marais is the Place des Vosges, at the eastern end of rue des Francs-Bourgeois. It is a masterpiece of aristocratic elegance. I just love the symmetrical pink brick and stone mansions built over arcades. ### Where to stay in this area - Best for couples: [Hotel Meslay Republique](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This intimate hotel offers cosy rooms and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a Parisian getaway. - Best for history buffs: [Hôtel De Nice](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-nice.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel captures the essence of old-world Paris with modern amenities. - Best for art lovers: [Hotel Rivoli](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/rivoli-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Surrounded by galleries and museums, this stylish hotel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the Marais art scene. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations in Marais](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7918&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_1406155655](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_1406155655_3c6f37e918.jpeg) Voges Square in Marais, Paris © Tommy YUN/Shutterstock ## Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin - My recommendation: [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: 5th and parts of the 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine - Pros: Rich in history, student-friendly atmosphere, and affordable dining options - Con: Some areas can feel touristy and lack the luxury of other Parisian districts The [Quartier Latin](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-latin-quarter-paris/) has been associated with students ever since the Sorbonne was established in the thirteenth century. Many colleges remain in the area to this day, along with some [fascinating vestiges](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/) of the medieval city. Some of the quarter’s student chic may have worn thin in recent years as [rents have risen](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/how-to-see-paris-on-a-budget/), but this is still one of the most relaxed areas of Paris. Just off “La Mouff” — the city’s famed rue Mouffetard market has now mostly given over to classy food shops. This authentic market is set around the pretty Monge fountain and sells fabulous, pricey produce. Organic stalls on Sundays. The Latin Quarter's budget-friendly reputation extends to its many affordable bookshops, including the famous Shakespeare and Company. This historic English-language bookstore has been a haven for writers and book lovers since 1951. Why I love it: "My favourite part of the Quartier Latin is the botanical garden — Jardin des Plantes. It started in 1626 as a royal garden of medicinal plants, it now includes a small zoo, greenhouses, and the Natural History Museum." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This charming hotel offers a quintessential Parisian experience in the heart of the Latin Quarter. - Best for budget travellers: [Hôtel du Mont Blanc](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/du-mont-blanc.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Offering comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, this hotel is perfect for those looking to save on lodging. - Best for spa lovers: [Hotel Les Bulles De Paris](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/les-bulles-de-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This unique hotel features a champagne-themed spa, offering a luxurious twist to your Latin Quarter stay. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations near Quartier Latin](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7970&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_446911948](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_446911948_1501001874.jpeg) Where to stay in Paris? Quartier Latin © Shutterstock ## Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain - My recommendation: [L’Hôtel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2) - Location: 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine - Pros: Intellectual history, charming cafés, and upscale shopping - Cons: Can be expensive and crowded with tourists [St-Germain](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/), the westernmost section of Paris’s Left Bank, has long been famous as the haunt of bohemians and intellectuals. A few famous cafés preserve a strong flavour of the old times, but the dominant spirit these days is elegant, relaxed and seriously upmarket. Fronting onto rue de Vaugirard, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the chief green space of the Left Bank. At the centre, the round pond and immaculate floral parterres are overlooked by the haughty Palais du Luxembourg, the seat of the French Senate. The Rue de Seine and Rue Jacob are particularly known for their high-end art dealers and galleries. For a taste of the area's intellectual history, visit the famous Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, once frequented by philosophers and writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Why I love it: "To me, I prefer to go to St-Germain to see the local up-and-coming artists. École des Beaux-Arts is here and is one of the most influential art schools in France. Its beautiful courtyard is open to the public and often hosts exhibitions of student work." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a quirky boutique: [L’Hôtel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2) . This hotel epitomizes louche Left Bank opulence, with twenty sumptuous rooms. Located in the historical district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this 5-star hotel features a hammam and an indoor swimming pool. - Best for luxury: [Hotel De Seine](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This upscale hotel offers sophisticated accommodations in one of Paris's most fashionable neighbourhoods. - Best for families: [Villa Des Princes](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/hoteldesecoles.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . With spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel is ideal for families exploring the Left Bank. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations near St-Germain](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=11213&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_183599468](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_183599468_472be47e40.jpeg) St. Germain, Paris © Shutterstock ## The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre - My recommendation: [Hotel Boronali](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . - Location: 18th arrondissement, on a hill in northern Paris - Pros: Romantic atmosphere, stunning city views, and artistic heritage - Cons: Hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues One of Paris’s most romantic quarters, Montmartre is famed for its association with artists like Renoir, Degas, Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec. It long existed as a hilltop village outside the city walls, and today the steep streets around the Butte Montmartre, Paris’s highest point, preserve an attractively village-like atmosphere. Though The Moulin Rouge's environs have lost the glamour they once had, you can’t help but be drawn towards the tatty red windmill. Its windows are filled with photos of beaming showgirls. When Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized the Moulin Rouge in his paintings, it was one of many such bawdy, populist cabarets in the area. Nowadays, it survives on its reputation, offering expensive Vegas-style dinner-and-show deals. Why I love it: "I love taking a stroll around Musée de Montmartre. The museum's gardens offer stunning views of the only vineyard left in Paris, the Clos Montmartre." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Hotel Boronali](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This stylish hotel offers contemporary design with a nod to Montmartre's artistic heritage. - Best for views: [Hotel Luxia](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/luxia.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Perched on the hill of Montmartre, this hotel offers breathtaking panoramas of Paris. - Best for romance: [Hôtel des Arts Montmartre](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/hoteldesarts.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . With its cosy rooms and artistic flair, this hotel captures the romantic essence of Montmartre. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations near Montmarte](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?city=-1456928&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_1285435696](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_1285435696_7b07c46322.jpeg) The Place du Tertre and the Sacre-Coeur, quarter Montmartre in Paris © Shutterstock ## Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette - My recommendation: [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . - Location: Northeastern Paris, spanning parts of the 10th and 19th arrondissements - Pros: Trendy cafés, picturesque canal, and a more local feel - Cons: Further from main tourist attractions and can feel less polished than central areas La Villette and the Canal St-Martin, in the northeast of the city, were for generations the centre of a densely populated working-class district. Since then, they have undergone extensive renovation. Today the quais have been made more appealing to cyclists, rollerbladers and pedestrians and the area is peppered with trendy cafés and bars. For those who like an up-and-coming vibe, this a where to stay in Paris. The Canal St-Martin area is known for its iron footbridges and tree-lined quays, perfect for picnics or evening strolls. On Sundays, the roads along the canal are closed to cars. Why I love it: "This area is also home to some of Paris's best street art, particularly around Rue de l'Ourcq." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [ibis Paris La Villette Cité des Sciences 19ème](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/ibis-paris-la-villette-cita-c-des-sciences.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. - Best for long stays: [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . These well-equipped apartments are perfect for extended stays in this trendy area. - Best for canal views: [Hôtel du Quai de Seine](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/du-quai-de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This charming hotel offers picturesque views of the Canal Saint-Martin. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation near Canal St-Martin](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?landmark=56479&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_1027387528](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_1027387528_24f0a159bd.jpeg) Canal Saint-Martin, Paris © Shutterstock ## Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant - My recommendation: [Hotel Scarlett](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: Eastern Paris, primarily in the 20th arrondissement - Pros: Diverse culture, authentic local atmosphere, and great street art - Cons: Less touristy amenities and can feel rough around the edges in some parts Northeastern Paris, comprising the Canal St-Martin, Belleville, Ménilmontant and La Villette, is one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of the city. It is home to sizeable ethnic populations, as well as students and artists. You won't want to miss Père-Lachaise cemetery, the final resting place of numerous famous artists and writers. Or worth seeing is the leafy Canal St-Martin, with its trendy cafés and bars. Some of the city’s best nightlife is concentrated on rues Oberkampf and Jean-Pierre Timbaud. While two attractive parks, the Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de Belleville, reward visitors with fine views over the city. Dreaming of a holiday in France? Start planning your trip by finding out [how to get there](https://www.roughguides.com/france/getting-there/). Why I love it: "This is where you'll find my favourite panoramic view of Paris. If you climb to the top of Parc de Belleville, it's a less crowded alternative to the Sacré-Cœur viewpoint." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Hotel Scarlett](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This design-forward hotel captures the creative spirit of the neighbourhood. - Best for budget travellers: [Hotel des Pyrénées](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/des-pyra-c-na-c-es.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This no-frills hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable prices. - Best for business travellers: [Novotel Paris 20 Belleville](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/novotel-paris-20-belleville.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . With its modern amenities and business facilities, this hotel caters well to those travelling for work. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation in Belleville](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7952&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ## Best for luxury: Le Louvre - My recommendation: [Villa-des-Prés](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: 1st arrondissement, central Paris - Pros: Home to world-famous museum and close to many major attractions - Cons: Very touristy and can be extremely crowded, especially during peak seasons The Louvre is one of the world’s truly great museums. Opened in 1793, during the Revolution, it soon acquired the largest art collection on earth, thanks to Napoleon’s conquests. Today, it houses paintings, sculptures and precious art objects, from Ancient Egyptian jewellery to the beginnings of Impressionism. Separate from the Louvre proper, but within the palace, is the museum Les Arts Décoratifs. The largest of the museum’s collections is its paintings. The early Italians are perhaps the most interesting, among them Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you want to get near her, go during one of the evening openings, or first thing in the day. Other highlights of the Italian collection include two Botticelli frescoes and Fra Angelico’s Coronation of the Virgin. Why I love it: "This area is great for shopping. Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme are my picks for the best high-end jewellery stores and fashion boutiques in Paris." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Villa-des-Prés](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This elegant hotel offers a tranquil retreat just steps away from the bustling Louvre area. - Best for history lovers: [Hôtel du Cygne Paris](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/du-cygne-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel offers a taste of Parisian history. - Best for art enthusiasts: [Hôtel de Lille](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/hoteldelille.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This stylish hotel features art-inspired decor, perfectly complementing its proximity to world-class museums. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Louvre](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?landmark=935&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![Louvre museum, Paris © Tijl De Meulemeester/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/louvre-paris-shutterstock_1631464591_885ae4bc90.jpeg) Louvre, Paris © Shutterstock ## Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle - My recommendation: [Sonder Le Frochot](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: 9th arrondissement, just south of Montmartre - Pros: Hip bars, trendy restaurants, and a more authentic Parisian feel - Cons: Limited major tourist attractions in the immediate area South Pigalle, or "SoPi," has transformed from a red-light district to one of Paris's trendiest neighborhoods. It's known for its excellent cocktail bars, like Dirty Dick and Glass, which are at the forefront of Paris's craft cocktail scene. Rues de Douai, Victor-Massé and Houdon sport a large number of electric guitar and hi-fi shops. Rue des Martyrs is one of Paris’s most enjoyable gastro-streets. Music lovers should visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a charming museum dedicated to the Romantic era, with a particular focus on George Sand. The museum's tearoom in the garden is a hidden gem. For a taste of old Pigalle, visit the Musée de l'Érotisme, which offers a unique perspective on the area's risqué history. Why I love it: "South Pigalle's charm lies in its architecture. I recommend you take a stroll down Rue Victor Massé to admire the ornate façades and wrought-iron balconies." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Sonder Le Frochot](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This trendy hotel captures the hip vibe of South Pigalle with its modern design and amenities. - Best for nightlife: [Le Pigalle](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/le-pigalle-paris2.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This vibrant hotel is at the heart of the neighbourhood's bustling bar and restaurant scene. - Best for budget travellers: [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This charming budget hotel offers a taste of local Parisian life without breaking the bank. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation in South Pigalle](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7954&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/moulin-rouge-paris-shutterstock_2111981876.jpg_10f17bf84f.jpg) Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock ## Where to stay in Paris with kids Big cities tend to have a good variety of cheap establishments. In small towns and rural areas, you may not be so lucky, particularly as the cheaper, family-run hotels find it increasingly hard to survive. Swanky resorts, particularly those on the Côte d’Azur, have very high prices in July and August, but even these are still cheaper than Paris. If you’re staying for more than three nights in a hotel it’s sometimes possible to negotiate a lower price, particularly out of season. Note that many family-run hotels close for two or three weeks a year in the low season. In smaller towns and villages they may also close for one or two nights a week, usually Sunday or Monday. Details are given where relevant in the text, but dates change from year to year; the best precaution is to phone ahead to be sure. - [Hôtel de Roubaix](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-roubaix.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). This family-run budget hotel has been around for years (and started to look like it), but it's been given a complete lift with a bright new refurb. Vintage furniture and chandeliers are still dotted about the 53 small rooms, but the overall look is contemporary with a quirky touch lent by comic-book art on the walls. The staff are very welcoming and the location is pretty quiet, yet close to all the Marais action and the Pompidou Centre. - [Hôtel De La Porte Dorée](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-la-porte-doree-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). A welcoming, family-friendly hotel tastefully refurbished by an American–French family. Preserves period features such as ceiling mouldings and fireplaces, and many of the furnishings are antique, but all rooms have private shower or bath, TV and comfy beds. - [Hôtel Saint-Charles](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/saint-charles-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). Located in the Butte-aux-Cailles quarter of Paris, just 1 km from Parc Montsouris, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and a bar with a terrace. The hotel’s reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Additional facilities available at the Saint-Charles include luggage storage and free newspapers. For inspiration, also have a read of our [30 best places to visit with children](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/the-30-best-places-to-go-with-kids/). ![© Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/carousel-eiffel-tower-paris-shutterstock_137270147.jpg_7e61049a67.jpg) The Eiffel Tower from the carousel © Shutterstock Ready for your trip to [Paris](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/)? Check out the snapshot [Pocket Rough Guide to Paris](https://shop.roughguides.com/book/pocket-rough-guide-paris/9781789196177) or [the Rough Guides to France](https://shop.roughguides.com/book/the-rough-guide-to-france/9781789196269). If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Paris without any effort and hassle, [use the expertise of our local travel experts](https://go.roughguides.com/tailor-made-trips) to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be. Rough Guides tip: Find out which season is best for your Paris trip in [our guide to the best time to travel to France](https://www.roughguides.com/france/when-to-go/). We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences. 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Dre is a writer and fine artist with a passion for travelling. read more - Nightlife - Museums - Where to Stay - Art - Europe - [France](https://www.roughguides.com/france/) - Paris - [Inspiration](https://www.roughguides.com/blog/inspiration/) - [See & Do](https://www.roughguides.com/blog/see-do/) - [Travel Advice](https://www.roughguides.com/blog/travel-advice/) - [Where to stay](https://www.roughguides.com/blog/where-to-stay/) - [Local Guides](https://www.roughguides.com/blog/local-guides/) ### Planning your own trip? 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Readable Markdown	All the clichés about [Paris](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/) are true – stylish, romantic, glamorous and utterly compelling. Yet it retains surprises that continue to delight even the most seasoned visitors. The landscape of the city changes as you cross from quartier to quartier. From historic St-Germain to the vibrant Marais, Paris is abuzz with bars and cafés. But where should you base yourself when you visit? With so many [France accommodations](https://www.roughguides.com/france/accommodation/) on offer – from chic apartments to grand hotels and hidden courtyard stays – it’s worth knowing the character of each neighborhood. Whatever kind of trip you’re planning, this guide will help you pick the best area to stay in Paris. - [What is the best area to stay in Paris?](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#what-is-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - [Best for shopping and dining: around the Champs-Elysées](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-shopping-and-dining-around-the-champs-elysees) - [The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-central-area-marais) - [Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-budget-friendly-quartier-latin) - [Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-a-bohemian-atmosphere-st-germain) - [The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#the-best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-couples-montmartre) - [Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-a-hip-vibe-canal-st-martin-and-la-villette) - [Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#paris-best-cosmopolitan-area-belleville-and-menilmontant) - [Best for luxury: Le Louvre](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-for-luxury-le-louvre) - [Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#best-area-in-paris-to-stay-for-a-local-vibe-south-pigalle) - [Where to stay in Paris with kids](https://www.roughguides.com/article/an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris/#where-to-stay-in-paris-with-kids) We'll delve into greater detail below, but for a quick summary: - Champs-Elysées: A central, luxurious area with world-famous landmarks and high-end shopping, but crowded and expensive. - Marais: A charming historic district with trendy boutiques and vibrant nightlife, though it can be noisy and crowded. - Quartier Latin: A budget-friendly area with a rich history and student atmosphere, offering affordable dining options but some parts can feel touristy. - St-Germain: An upscale neighbourhood known for its intellectual history and charming cafés, but can be expensive and crowded. - Montmartre: A romantic, artistic quarter with stunning city views, though its hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate. - Canal St-Martin and La Villette: A trendy area with a local feel, featuring picturesque canals and hip cafés, but further from main tourist attractions. - Belleville and Ménilmontant: A diverse, vibrant area with an authentic local atmosphere and great street art, though it can feel rough around the edges. - Le Louvre: Home to the world-famous museum and close to major attractions, but very touristy and extremely crowded. - South Pigalle: A hip area with trendy bars and restaurants offering an authentic Parisian feel, but with limited major tourist attractions nearby. Looking for vacation ideas in France? Check out [our 7-day France itinerary](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/7-days-in-france-itinerary/) - you might like it\! - My recommendation: [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: Central Paris, 8th arrondissement - Pros: World-famous landmarks, luxury shopping, and fine dining - Cons: Crowded with tourists and expensive You’ll find some of the city’s most famous landmarks around the [Champs-Elysées](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/), including the Place de la Concorde, Tuileries Gardens and the Arc de Triomphe. It’s also one of the most exclusive parts of Paris, home to an array of luxury hotels and high-fashion shops. The avenue itself stretches for 1.9 kilometres (1.2 miles) and is lined with horse-chestnut trees. At the lower end of the ChampsElysées is the Grand Palais — a grandiose Neoclassical building with a fine glass and ironwork cupola. It was created for the 1900 Exposition Universelle. The cupola forms the centrepiece of the nef (nave) — a huge, impressive exhibition space, used for large-scale installations, fashion shows and trade fairs. Nearby, you'll find the Petit Palais, which houses the City of Paris Museum of Fine Arts. For music lovers, the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées offers a rich program of classical music, opera, and dance performances. Why I love it: "At night, the Champs-Elysées comes alive with illuminated storefronts and the twinkling lights of passing cars. It really feels like the 'City of Lights' when I'm here." ### Where to stay in this area - For a boutique stay: [Chalgrin Boutique Hotel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/d-argentine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This elegant hotel offers a perfect blend of Parisian charm and modern comfort, steps away from the iconic avenue. - For luxury: [Tilsitt Etoile Paris](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/tilsitt-etoile-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This opulent hotel provides a lavish experience with stunning views of the Arc de Triomphe. - For convenience: [Marceau Champs-Elysées](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/marceau-champs-elysees.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Located in the heart of the Golden Triangle, this hotel offers easy access to the area's best shopping and attractions. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Champs-Elysées](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?landmark=900053798&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_496643884](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_496643884_07075012e0.jpeg) Triumphal Arch in Paris © Sergey Molchenko/Shutterstock ## The best area in Paris to stay for a central area: Marais - My recommendation: [Hotel Meslay Republique](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: Right bank of the Seine, spanning parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements - Pros: Charming historic architecture, trendy boutiques, and vibrant nightlife - Cons: Can be crowded and noisy, especially on weekends Full of splendid old mansions, narrow lanes, designer boutiques and buzzing bars and restaurants, the [Marais](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-marais-paris/) is one of Paris’s more striking quartiers. This chic district also holds a slew of sleek galleries, and the old Jewish quarter centred on rue des Rosiers. You'll also find here a number of excellent museums, not least the splendid Musée Picasso. The Centre Pompidou’s radical “inside-out” architecture looks just as ground-breaking as it did when it first opened in the 1970s, and its modern art museum is a knockout. The opening of the Centre Pompidou gave rise to some violent reactions. Since then, however, it has won over critics and the public alike. Architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers freed up maximum space inside by placing all infrastructure outside. The transparent escalator on the front of the building, giving access to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, affords [superb views over the city.](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/alternative-paris-off-the-beaten-track/) Why I love it: My favourite part of Marais is the Place des Vosges, at the eastern end of rue des Francs-Bourgeois. It is a masterpiece of aristocratic elegance. I just love the symmetrical pink brick and stone mansions built over arcades. ### Where to stay in this area - Best for couples: [Hotel Meslay Republique](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/meslay-republique.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This intimate hotel offers cosy rooms and a romantic atmosphere perfect for a Parisian getaway. - Best for history buffs: [Hôtel De Nice](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-nice.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel captures the essence of old-world Paris with modern amenities. - Best for art lovers: [Hotel Rivoli](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/rivoli-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Surrounded by galleries and museums, this stylish hotel is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the Marais art scene. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations in Marais](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7918&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_1406155655](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_1406155655_3c6f37e918.jpeg) Voges Square in Marais, Paris © Tommy YUN/Shutterstock ## Best for budget-friendly: Quartier Latin - My recommendation: [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: 5th and parts of the 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine - Pros: Rich in history, student-friendly atmosphere, and affordable dining options - Con: Some areas can feel touristy and lack the luxury of other Parisian districts The [Quartier Latin](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-latin-quarter-paris/) has been associated with students ever since the Sorbonne was established in the thirteenth century. Many colleges remain in the area to this day, along with some [fascinating vestiges](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/) of the medieval city. Some of the quarter’s student chic may have worn thin in recent years as [rents have risen](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/how-to-see-paris-on-a-budget/), but this is still one of the most relaxed areas of Paris. Just off “La Mouff” — the city’s famed rue Mouffetard market has now mostly given over to classy food shops. This authentic market is set around the pretty Monge fountain and sells fabulous, pricey produce. Organic stalls on Sundays. The Latin Quarter's budget-friendly reputation extends to its many affordable bookshops, including the famous Shakespeare and Company. This historic English-language bookstore has been a haven for writers and book lovers since 1951. Why I love it: "My favourite part of the Quartier Latin is the botanical garden — Jardin des Plantes. It started in 1626 as a royal garden of medicinal plants, it now includes a small zoo, greenhouses, and the Natural History Museum." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This charming hotel offers a quintessential Parisian experience in the heart of the Latin Quarter. - Best for budget travellers: [Hôtel du Mont Blanc](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/du-mont-blanc.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Offering comfortable accommodations at reasonable prices, this hotel is perfect for those looking to save on lodging. - Best for spa lovers: [Hotel Les Bulles De Paris](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/les-bulles-de-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This unique hotel features a champagne-themed spa, offering a luxurious twist to your Latin Quarter stay. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations near Quartier Latin](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7970&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_446911948](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_446911948_1501001874.jpeg) Where to stay in Paris? Quartier Latin © Shutterstock ## Best for a bohemian atmosphere: St-Germain - My recommendation: [L’Hôtel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2) - Location: 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine - Pros: Intellectual history, charming cafés, and upscale shopping - Cons: Can be expensive and crowded with tourists [St-Germain](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/), the westernmost section of Paris’s Left Bank, has long been famous as the haunt of bohemians and intellectuals. A few famous cafés preserve a strong flavour of the old times, but the dominant spirit these days is elegant, relaxed and seriously upmarket. Fronting onto rue de Vaugirard, the Jardin du Luxembourg is the chief green space of the Left Bank. At the centre, the round pond and immaculate floral parterres are overlooked by the haughty Palais du Luxembourg, the seat of the French Senate. The Rue de Seine and Rue Jacob are particularly known for their high-end art dealers and galleries. For a taste of the area's intellectual history, visit the famous Café de Flore or Les Deux Magots, once frequented by philosophers and writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir. Why I love it: "To me, I prefer to go to St-Germain to see the local up-and-coming artists. École des Beaux-Arts is here and is one of the most influential art schools in France. Its beautiful courtyard is open to the public and often hosts exhibitions of student work." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a quirky boutique: [L’Hôtel](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2) . This hotel epitomizes louche Left Bank opulence, with twenty sumptuous rooms. Located in the historical district of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, this 5-star hotel features a hammam and an indoor swimming pool. - Best for luxury: [Hotel De Seine](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This upscale hotel offers sophisticated accommodations in one of Paris's most fashionable neighbourhoods. - Best for families: [Villa Des Princes](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/hoteldesecoles.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . With spacious rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel is ideal for families exploring the Left Bank. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations near St-Germain](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=11213&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_183599468](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_183599468_472be47e40.jpeg) St. Germain, Paris © Shutterstock ## The best area in Paris to stay for couples: Montmartre - My recommendation: [Hotel Boronali](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . - Location: 18th arrondissement, on a hill in northern Paris - Pros: Romantic atmosphere, stunning city views, and artistic heritage - Cons: Hilly terrain can be challenging to navigate, especially for those with mobility issues One of Paris’s most romantic quarters, Montmartre is famed for its association with artists like Renoir, Degas, Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec. It long existed as a hilltop village outside the city walls, and today the steep streets around the Butte Montmartre, Paris’s highest point, preserve an attractively village-like atmosphere. Though The Moulin Rouge's environs have lost the glamour they once had, you can’t help but be drawn towards the tatty red windmill. Its windows are filled with photos of beaming showgirls. When Toulouse-Lautrec immortalized the Moulin Rouge in his paintings, it was one of many such bawdy, populist cabarets in the area. Nowadays, it survives on its reputation, offering expensive Vegas-style dinner-and-show deals. Why I love it: "I love taking a stroll around Musée de Montmartre. The museum's gardens offer stunning views of the only vineyard left in Paris, the Clos Montmartre." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Hotel Boronali](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/boronali.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This stylish hotel offers contemporary design with a nod to Montmartre's artistic heritage. - Best for views: [Hotel Luxia](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/luxia.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Perched on the hill of Montmartre, this hotel offers breathtaking panoramas of Paris. - Best for romance: [Hôtel des Arts Montmartre](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/hoteldesarts.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . With its cosy rooms and artistic flair, this hotel captures the romantic essence of Montmartre. Or browse hundreds of [accommodations near Montmarte](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?city=-1456928&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_1285435696](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_1285435696_7b07c46322.jpeg) The Place du Tertre and the Sacre-Coeur, quarter Montmartre in Paris © Shutterstock ## Best for a hip vibe: Canal St-Martin and La Villette - My recommendation: [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . - Location: Northeastern Paris, spanning parts of the 10th and 19th arrondissements - Pros: Trendy cafés, picturesque canal, and a more local feel - Cons: Further from main tourist attractions and can feel less polished than central areas La Villette and the Canal St-Martin, in the northeast of the city, were for generations the centre of a densely populated working-class district. Since then, they have undergone extensive renovation. Today the quais have been made more appealing to cyclists, rollerbladers and pedestrians and the area is peppered with trendy cafés and bars. For those who like an up-and-coming vibe, this a where to stay in Paris. The Canal St-Martin area is known for its iron footbridges and tree-lined quays, perfect for picnics or evening strolls. On Sundays, the roads along the canal are closed to cars. Why I love it: "This area is also home to some of Paris's best street art, particularly around Rue de l'Ourcq." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [ibis Paris La Villette Cité des Sciences 19ème](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/ibis-paris-la-villette-cita-c-des-sciences.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This modern hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie. - Best for long stays: [Aparthotel Adagio Access Paris La Villette](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/citea-la-villette.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . These well-equipped apartments are perfect for extended stays in this trendy area. - Best for canal views: [Hôtel du Quai de Seine](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/du-quai-de-seine.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This charming hotel offers picturesque views of the Canal Saint-Martin. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation near Canal St-Martin](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?landmark=56479&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![shutterstock\_1027387528](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/shutterstock_1027387528_24f0a159bd.jpeg) Canal Saint-Martin, Paris © Shutterstock ## Paris' best cosmopolitan area: Belleville and Ménilmontant - My recommendation: [Hotel Scarlett](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: Eastern Paris, primarily in the 20th arrondissement - Pros: Diverse culture, authentic local atmosphere, and great street art - Cons: Less touristy amenities and can feel rough around the edges in some parts Northeastern Paris, comprising the Canal St-Martin, Belleville, Ménilmontant and La Villette, is one of the most diverse and vibrant parts of the city. It is home to sizeable ethnic populations, as well as students and artists. You won't want to miss Père-Lachaise cemetery, the final resting place of numerous famous artists and writers. Or worth seeing is the leafy Canal St-Martin, with its trendy cafés and bars. Some of the city’s best nightlife is concentrated on rues Oberkampf and Jean-Pierre Timbaud. While two attractive parks, the Buttes-Chaumont and Parc de Belleville, reward visitors with fine views over the city. Dreaming of a holiday in France? Start planning your trip by finding out [how to get there](https://www.roughguides.com/france/getting-there/). Why I love it: "This is where you'll find my favourite panoramic view of Paris. If you climb to the top of Parc de Belleville, it's a less crowded alternative to the Sacré-Cœur viewpoint." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Hotel Scarlett](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/scarlett.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This design-forward hotel captures the creative spirit of the neighbourhood. - Best for budget travellers: [Hotel des Pyrénées](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/des-pyra-c-na-c-es.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This no-frills hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms at affordable prices. - Best for business travellers: [Novotel Paris 20 Belleville](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/novotel-paris-20-belleville.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . With its modern amenities and business facilities, this hotel caters well to those travelling for work. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation in Belleville](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7952&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ## Best for luxury: Le Louvre - My recommendation: [Villa-des-Prés](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: 1st arrondissement, central Paris - Pros: Home to world-famous museum and close to many major attractions - Cons: Very touristy and can be extremely crowded, especially during peak seasons The Louvre is one of the world’s truly great museums. Opened in 1793, during the Revolution, it soon acquired the largest art collection on earth, thanks to Napoleon’s conquests. Today, it houses paintings, sculptures and precious art objects, from Ancient Egyptian jewellery to the beginnings of Impressionism. Separate from the Louvre proper, but within the palace, is the museum Les Arts Décoratifs. The largest of the museum’s collections is its paintings. The early Italians are perhaps the most interesting, among them Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. If you want to get near her, go during one of the evening openings, or first thing in the day. Other highlights of the Italian collection include two Botticelli frescoes and Fra Angelico’s Coronation of the Virgin. Why I love it: "This area is great for shopping. Rue Saint-Honoré and Place Vendôme are my picks for the best high-end jewellery stores and fashion boutiques in Paris." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Villa-des-Prés](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/villa-des-pres.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This elegant hotel offers a tranquil retreat just steps away from the bustling Louvre area. - Best for history lovers: [Hôtel du Cygne Paris](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/du-cygne-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . Housed in a 17th-century building, this hotel offers a taste of Parisian history. - Best for art enthusiasts: [Hôtel de Lille](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/hoteldelille.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This stylish hotel features art-inspired decor, perfectly complementing its proximity to world-class museums. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation near the Louvre](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?landmark=935&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![Louvre museum, Paris © Tijl De Meulemeester/Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/louvre-paris-shutterstock_1631464591_885ae4bc90.jpeg) Louvre, Paris © Shutterstock ## Best area in Paris to stay for a local vibe: South Pigalle - My recommendation: [Sonder Le Frochot](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) - Location: 9th arrondissement, just south of Montmartre - Pros: Hip bars, trendy restaurants, and a more authentic Parisian feel - Cons: Limited major tourist attractions in the immediate area South Pigalle, or "SoPi," has transformed from a red-light district to one of Paris's trendiest neighborhoods. It's known for its excellent cocktail bars, like Dirty Dick and Glass, which are at the forefront of Paris's craft cocktail scene. Rues de Douai, Victor-Massé and Houdon sport a large number of electric guitar and hi-fi shops. Rue des Martyrs is one of Paris’s most enjoyable gastro-streets. Music lovers should visit the Musée de la Vie Romantique, a charming museum dedicated to the Romantic era, with a particular focus on George Sand. The museum's tearoom in the garden is a hidden gem. For a taste of old Pigalle, visit the Musée de l'Érotisme, which offers a unique perspective on the area's risqué history. Why I love it: "South Pigalle's charm lies in its architecture. I recommend you take a stroll down Rue Victor Massé to admire the ornate façades and wrought-iron balconies." ### Where to stay in this area - Best for a boutique stay: [Sonder Le Frochot](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/opera-frochot.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This trendy hotel captures the hip vibe of South Pigalle with its modern design and amenities. - Best for nightlife: [Le Pigalle](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/le-pigalle-paris2.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This vibrant hotel is at the heart of the neighbourhood's bustling bar and restaurant scene. - Best for budget travellers: [Grand Hôtel de Clermont](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/grand-de-clermont.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) . This charming budget hotel offers a taste of local Parisian life without breaking the bank. Or browse hundreds of [accommodation in South Pigalle](https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?district=7954&aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2&label=an-experts-guide-the-best-area-to-stay-in-paris) at any budget. ![Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/moulin-rouge-paris-shutterstock_2111981876.jpg_10f17bf84f.jpg) Moulin Rouge, Paris © Shutterstock ## Where to stay in Paris with kids Big cities tend to have a good variety of cheap establishments. In small towns and rural areas, you may not be so lucky, particularly as the cheaper, family-run hotels find it increasingly hard to survive. Swanky resorts, particularly those on the Côte d’Azur, have very high prices in July and August, but even these are still cheaper than Paris. If you’re staying for more than three nights in a hotel it’s sometimes possible to negotiate a lower price, particularly out of season. Note that many family-run hotels close for two or three weeks a year in the low season. In smaller towns and villages they may also close for one or two nights a week, usually Sunday or Monday. Details are given where relevant in the text, but dates change from year to year; the best precaution is to phone ahead to be sure. - [Hôtel de Roubaix](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-roubaix.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). This family-run budget hotel has been around for years (and started to look like it), but it's been given a complete lift with a bright new refurb. Vintage furniture and chandeliers are still dotted about the 53 small rooms, but the overall look is contemporary with a quirky touch lent by comic-book art on the walls. The staff are very welcoming and the location is pretty quiet, yet close to all the Marais action and the Pompidou Centre. - [Hôtel De La Porte Dorée](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/de-la-porte-doree-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). A welcoming, family-friendly hotel tastefully refurbished by an American–French family. Preserves period features such as ceiling mouldings and fireplaces, and many of the furnishings are antique, but all rooms have private shower or bath, TV and comfy beds. - [Hôtel Saint-Charles](https://www.booking.com/hotel/fr/saint-charles-paris.en.html?aid=2228817&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2). Located in the Butte-aux-Cailles quarter of Paris, just 1 km from Parc Montsouris, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms and a bar with a terrace. The hotel’s reception desk is open 24 hours a day. Additional facilities available at the Saint-Charles include luggage storage and free newspapers. For inspiration, also have a read of our [30 best places to visit with children](https://www.roughguides.com/articles/the-30-best-places-to-go-with-kids/). ![© Shutterstock](https://deih43ym53wif.cloudfront.net/carousel-eiffel-tower-paris-shutterstock_137270147.jpg_7e61049a67.jpg) The Eiffel Tower from the carousel © Shutterstock Ready for your trip to [Paris](https://www.roughguides.com/france/things-to-do-paris/)? Check out the snapshot [Pocket Rough Guide to Paris](https://shop.roughguides.com/book/pocket-rough-guide-paris/9781789196177) or [the Rough Guides to France](https://shop.roughguides.com/book/the-rough-guide-to-france/9781789196269). If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Paris without any effort and hassle, [use the expertise of our local travel experts](https://go.roughguides.com/tailor-made-trips) to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be. Rough Guides tip: Find out which season is best for your Paris trip in [our guide to the best time to travel to France](https://www.roughguides.com/france/when-to-go/). We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesn’t influence our editorial standards. We only recommend services that we genuinely believe will enhance your travel experiences.
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