Best places to stay in Paris is an intriguing issue for residents, students and visitors at home and abroad. Paris is the capital and largest city of France. With an official estimated population of 2,350,820 residents in January 2024 in an area of more than 105 km2, Paris is the fourth – largest city in the European Union and the 30th most densely populated city in the world in 2024. Since the 17th century, Paris has been one of the world’s major centres of finance, diplomacy, commerce, culture, fashion, and gastronomy. For its leading role in the arts and sciences, as well as its early and extensive system of street lighting, in the 19th century, it became known as the City of Light. Even though Paris is one of the greatest cities in Europe for vacations, organizing a journey there can be rather difficult, particularly when it comes to figuring out which best places to stay in Paris. Where to stay in Paris and which best location to stay in Paris? It all depends on the kind of journey you want to take.
This blog selects and analyzes top 10 best places to stay in Paris detailedly serving as a comprehensive guide, helping you have a better command of Paris. If you want choose Paris as your tourist spot or educational destination, you ought to read this blog carefully.
Why Choose Paris?
Paris has one of the most sustainable transportation systems and is one of only two cities in the world that received the Sustainable Transport Award twice. Paris is known for its museums and architectural landmarks: the Louvre received 8.9 million visitors in 2024, on track for keeping its position as the most – visited art museum in the world. The historical district along the Seine in the city centre has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. The 2024 Summer Olympics were an international multi-sport event held from 26 July to 11 August 2024 in Paris with several events started from 24 July.
Top 10 Best Places to Stay in Paris
Top 1. 1st Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 15,919
- Best For: First timers
- Advantages: Great metro lines to get around; Super close to the main touristy sites
- Disadvantages: More expensive; Less locals and local spots
The 1st arrondissement of Paris is one of the 20 arrondissements of the capital city of France. In spoken French, this arrondissement is colloquially referred to as le premier. It is one of best places to stay in Paris and best location to stay in Paris. It is governed locally together with the 2nd, 3rd and 4th arrondissement, with which it forms the 1st sector of Paris. Also known as Louvre, the arrondissement is situated principally on the right bank of the River Seine. It also includes the west end of the Île de la Cité. The locality is one of the oldest areas in Paris, the Île de la Cité having been the heart of the city of Lutetia, conquered by the Romans in 52 BC, while some parts on the right bank date back to the early Middle Ages. It is the least populated of the city’s arrondissements and one of the smallest by area, with a land area of only 1.83 km2. A significant part of the area is occupied by the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Gardens. The Forum des Halles is the largest shopping mall in Paris. Much of the remainder of the arrondissement is dedicated to business and administration.
Top 2. 7th Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 47,947
- Best For: Families & those who want to be near the Eiffel Tower
- Advantages: Great restaurants and bakeries; Easily walk to the Eiffel Tower
- Disadvantages: Expensive
The 7th arrondissement of Paris is one of the 20 arrondissements of the capital city of France. In spoken French, this arrondissement is referred to as le septième. The arrondissement, called Palais-Bourbon in a reference to the seat of the National Assembly, includes some of the major and well – known tourist attractions of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Hôtel des Invalides, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, as well as a concentration of museums such as the Musée d’Orsay, Musée Rodin and the Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac. It is one of best areas to stay in Paris, Paris sights and best neighborhood to stay in Paris. Situated on the Rive Gauche – the “Left” bank of the River Seine – this central arrondissement, which includes the historical aristocratic neighbourhood of Faubourg Saint – Germain, contains a number of French national institutions, among them the National Assembly and numerous government ministries. It is also home to many foreign diplomatic embassies, some of them occupying outstanding hôtels particuliers. The arrondissement has been home to the French upper class since the 17th century, when it became the new residence of France’s highest nobility. The district has been so fashionable within the French aristocracy that the phrase le Faubourg – referring to the ancient name of the current 7th arrondissement – has been used to describe French nobility ever since. The 7th arrondissement of Paris and Neuilly – sur – Seine form the most affluent and prestigious residential area in France.
Top 3. 18th Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 188,446
- Best For: Couples & honeymooners
- Advantages: Super romantic and charming; Amazing views of the city; Great bars and restaurants; More affordable
- Disadvantages: A bit crowded; Climbing hills and steps
The 18th arrondissement of Paris is one of the 20 arrondissements, or administrative districts, of the capital city of France. In spoken French, this arrondissement is referred to as dix – huitième. It is one of best places to stay in Paris France, best arrondissement to stay in Paris and most convenient area to stay in Paris. The arrondissement, known as Butte – Montmartre, is located on the right bank of the River Seine. It is mostly known for hosting the large hill of Montmartre, which is known for its artistic history, the Bateau-Lavoir where Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, and Amedeo Modigliani lived and worked in the early 20th century, the house of music diva Dalida, the Moulin Rouge cabaret, other historic features, and the prominent Sacré Cœur basilica which sits atop the hill. The 18th arrondissement also contains Goutte d’Or district, which has large numbers of residents of North and sub – Saharan African origins, and which is famous for its market, the marché Barbès, which sells products from Africa.
Top 4. 12th Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 140,954
- Best For: Those on a budget
- Advantages: Budget – friendly; Great bars and restaurants; Unique tourist attractions
- Disadvantages: Walk further or take the metro; Get pretty busy around the Gare de Lyon area
The 12th arrondissement of Paris is one of the 20 arrondissements of the capital city of France. Situated on the right bank of the River Seine, it is the easternmost arrondissement of Paris, as well as the largest by area. In 2019, it had a population of 139,297. The 12th arrondissement comprises the Gare de Lyon and Bois de Vincennes. It borders the inner suburbs of Charenton – le – Pont and Saint – Mandé in Val – de – Marne. It is one of Paris districts, famous areas in Paris and cool areas to stay in Paris. The arrondissement benefited from numerous urban renewal and public works projects, many of them initiated during the 1980s. Two of the eight ‘Grands Projets of Francois Mitterrand’ that were the hallmark of his presidency were located in the 12th arrondissement. These were the Opéra de la Bastille and the Ministry of the Economy and Finance building. Like most places in Paris, the 12th arrondissement offers a rich array of historically important and aesthetically appealing sites. For the 12th, these sites emerged mainly from development during the 19th century and from the late 20th century urban renewal projects.
Top 5. Le Marais
- Population: 62,680
- Best For: Shopping
- Advantages: Great markets, bars, and restaurants everywhere; Lots of great sites; Perfect for shopping
- Disadvantages: Be crowded; More Expensive
Le Marais is a historic district in Paris, France. It spreads across parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on the Rive Droite, or Right Bank, of the Seine. It is one of best district to stay in Paris, best arrondissement to stay in Paris France and Paris best places to see. Having once been an aristocratic district, it is home to many buildings of historic and architectural importance. It lost its status as a fashionable district in the late 18th century, with only minor nobles calling the area home. Le Marais became a center of LGBT culture with beginning in the 1980s. After the French Revolution, the district fell into disrepair and was abandoned by nobility. After a long period of decay, the district has undergone transformation in recent years and is now once again amongst the more fashionable areas of Paris, known for its art galleries, upscale restaurants and museums.
Top 6. 6th Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 40,209
- Best For: Those who love cafes, shopping, and people-watching
- Advantages: Great cafes, restaurants, bakeries, etc; Several great boutiques and luxury shops; Super close to many attractions
- Disadvantages: Be crowded; More Expensive
The 6th arrondissement of Paris is one of the 20 arrondissements of the capital city of France. In spoken French, it is referred to as le sixième. The arrondissement, called Luxembourg in a reference to the seat of the Senate and its garden, is situated on the Rive Gauche of the River Seine. It includes educational institutions such as the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts, the École des hautes études en sciences sociales and the Institut de France, as well as Parisian monuments such as the Odéon – Théâtre de l’Europe, the Pont des Arts, which links the 1st and 6th arrondissements over the Seine, Saint – Germain Abbey and Saint – Sulpice Church. This central arrondissement, which includes the historic districts of Saint – Germain – des – Prés and Luxembourg, has played a major role throughout Parisian history. It is well known for its café culture and the revolutionary existentialism intellectualism of the authors that lived there, including Jean – Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, Gertrude Stein, Paul Éluard, Boris Vian, Albert Camus and Françoise Sagan.
With its cityscape, intellectual tradition, history, architecture and central location, the arrondissement has long been home to French intelligentsia. It is a major locale for art galleries and fashion stores and is one of Paris’s most expensive areas and one of France’s richest districts in terms of average income. It is part of what is called Paris Ouest alongside the 7th, 8th and 16th arrondissements, as well as the Neuilly – sur – Seine inner suburb. It is one of best district to stay in Paris, best areas to stay Paris and best part of Paris to stay.
Top 7. 9th Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 58,951
- Best For: Nightlife
- Advantages: Pretty affordable; Many great bars, restaurants, and clubs
- Disadvantages: A bit seedy; Further from the main heart of Paris
The 9th arrondissement of Paris is one of the 20 arrondissements of the capital city of France. In spoken French, it is referred to as le neuvième. It is one of Paris suburbs, great places to stay in Paris and best area to stay in Paris first time. The arrondissement, called Opéra, is located on the right bank of the River Seine. It contains many places of cultural, historical and architectural interest, including the Palais Garnier, on the Place de l’Opéra, together with the InterContinental Paris Le Grand Hotel’s Café de la Paix, as well as Boulevard Haussmann, with the Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, two large department stores, in addition to the Le Figaro newspaper. It hosts two historic churches, noted for their classical architecture, art and decoration: Saint – Louis – d’Antin and Notre – Dame – de – Lorette. The arrondissement also contains a number of theatres and music venues including the Olympia, Folies Bergère, Théâtre Mogador, Théâtre Édouard VII and Théâtre de Paris. Along with the 2nd and 8th arrondissements, it hosts one of the business centres of Paris, located around the Palais Garnier.
Top 8. 5th Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 56,841
- Best For: First timers
- Advantages: Great location for exploring; Tons of great bars, restaurants, and attractions nearby; Good mix of locals and tourists
- Disadvantages: Pretty crowded; Less Affordable
The 5th arrondissement of Paris is one of the 20 arrondissements of the capital city of France. In spoken French, this arrondissement is referred to as le cinquième. The arrondissement, also known as Panthéon, is situated on the Rive Gauche of the River Seine. It is one of the capital’s central arrondissements. The arrondissement is notable for being the location of the Latin Quarter, a district dominated by universities, colleges, and prestigious high schools since the 12th century when the University of Paris was created. It is also home to the National Museum of Natural History and Jardin des plantes in its eastern part. The 5th arrondissement is also one of the oldest districts of the city, dating back to ancient times. Traces of the area’s past survive in such sites as the Arènes de Lutèce, a Roman amphitheatre, as well as the Thermes de Cluny, a Roman thermae. It is one of Paris locations to visit, beautiful in Paris and best places to go in Paris.
Top 9. St-Germain-des-Prés
- Population: 36,945
- Best For: Holiday
- Advantages: Lots of the old – school Parisian cafés; grand – dame restaurants and smart shops
- Disadvantages: Pretty crowded
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the four administrative quarters of the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France, located around the church of the former Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Its official borders are the River Seine on the north, the rue des Saints-Pères on the west, between the rue de Seine and rue Mazarine on the east, and the rue du Four on the south. Residents of the quarter are known as Germanopratins. The quarter’s cafés include Les Deux Magots, Café de Flore, le Procope, and the Brasserie Lipp, as well as many bookstores and publishing houses. In the 1940s and 1950s, it was the centre of the existentialist movement. It is also home to the École des Beaux-Arts, Sciences Po, the Saints-Pères biomedical university center of the University of Paris, the School for Advanced Studies in the Social Sciences, and the Musée national Eugène Delacroix, in the former apartment and studio of painter Eugène Delacroix. It is one of best places to stay in Paris, best location to stay in paris and best places to stay in Paris France.
Top 10. 16th Arrondissement of Paris
- Population: 162,061
- Best For: Quiet Vacation
- Advantages: Prestigious schools, museums, and various parks; Society’s favourite places of residence
- Disadvantages: More expensive
The 16th arrondissement of Paris is the westernmost of the 20 arrondissements of Paris, the capital city of France. Located on its Right Bank, it is adjacent to the 17th and 8th arrondissements to the northeast, as well as to the suburb of Boulogne-Billancourt, Hauts-de-Seine to the southwest. Opposite the Seine are the 7th and 15th arrondissements. Notable sights of the 16th arrondissement include the Arc de Triomphe and the Place du Trocadéro, where the Palais de Chaillot stands, itself concentrating three museums and one theatre. Other museums and cultural venues are located in this arrondissement, including the Louis Vuitton Foundation opened in 2014. With its ornate 19th-century buildings, large avenues, prestigious schools, museums, and various parks, the 16th arrondissement has long been known as one of French high society’s favourite places of residence to such an extent that the phrase le 16e has been associated with great wealth in French popular culture. Indeed, the 16th arrondissement of Paris is France’s third-richest district for average household income, behind only its 7th arrondissement and the suburb of Neuilly-sur-Seine, both of which are adjacent.
The 16th arrondissement hosts several large sporting venues, including: the Parc des Princes, which is the stadium where Paris Saint-Germain football club plays its home matches; Roland Garros Stadium, where the French Open tennis championships are held; and Stade Jean-Bouin, home to the Stade Français rugby union club. The Bois de Boulogne, the second-largest public park in Paris (behind only the Bois de Vincennes), is also located in this arrondissement. It is one of best arrondissement to stay in Paris, most convenient area to stay in Paris and famous areas in Paris.
Accommodation in Best Places to Stay in Paris
Paris Massy-Palaiseau, Paris is located in the picturesque neighborhood of 16 Avenue Emile Baudot. This contemporary residence features a cozy living area, a kitchen with the newest appliances, and an opulent bathroom. Living in the apartments is pleasant because of their open-plan layout and abundance of natural light. Additionally, its proximity to the Massy-Palaiseau RER station enables fast transit to the center of Paris and nearby areas. In addition to the tranquil surroundings, residents may easily reach nearby stores, cafes, and dining establishments for all of their daily need.
Paris Villejuif, Paris is located at 20 Rue Marcel Paul in the Villejuif district of Paris. This exquisite residence, with its smart furnishings and upscale facilities, blends comfort with attractive design. The apartment accommodates a range of renters’ needs with different floor plans. With a wealth of lifestyle amenities like retail malls, cafes, fine dining establishments, and lush parks, the area is peaceful and safe. Being close to public transportation makes commuting and exploring different parts of the city simple. For individuals looking for convenient living in the city, Paris Villejuif is the perfect place to call home.
Tips for Travelling Best Places to Stay in Paris
- Plan in Advance
By researching and reading, you’ll have an idea of how to navigate the city and how to schedule your time.
- Consider Your Arrival
It might be worth the money to skip the metro and hire a shuttle or driver into the city.
- Make Advanced Reservations
Whether it’s accommodation or famous attractions such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, you need to make reservations in advance. uhomes.com is a reliable platform providing you with affordable and comfortable student accommodation in France.
- Keep ExpensiveItems Hidden
Never leave your phone or wallet visible on tables or hanging out of your pockets. Keep them hidden from potential thieves.
- RelaxYourself Without Pressure
It’s alright that you won’t see everything you wanted. Just accept it and think of it as a reason to look forward to your next visit. Take your time and enjoy the magic of Paris.
Tips for Security in Best Places to Stay in Paris
- Don’t compromise your safety for a cheap apartment. uhomes.com is a reliable platform providing you with affordable and comfortable student accommodation in France.
- Don’t feel obligated to answer a stranger’s question when you feel your safety is in danger.
- When you go to touristic areas, beware of your belongings.
- Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. Exploring during the day is ideal for safety.
- Keep expensive items hidden. Never leave your phone or wallet visible on tables or hanging out of your pockets. Keep them hidden from potential thieves.
- Use safe transportation at night. Avoid public transit in high-risk areas during nighttime. Choose a taxi or rideshare service like Uber for safer options.
List of Best Places to Stay in Paris
- Top 1. 1st Arrondissement of Paris
- Top 2. 7th Arrondissement of Paris
- Top 3. 18th Arrondissement of Paris
- Top 4. 12th Arrondissement of Paris
- Top 5. Le Marais
- Top 6. 6th Arrondissement of Paris
- Top 7. 9th Arrondissement of Paris
- Top 8. 5th Arrondissement of Paris
- Top 9. St-Germain-des-Prés
- Top 10. 16th Arrondissement of Paris
Conclusion
Best places to stay in Paris are selected and analyzed detailedly in this blog serving as a comprehensive guide with advantages and disadvantages, helping you have a better command of Paris. If you want choose Paris as your tourist spot or educational destination, you ought to read this blog carefully.
FAQ
Much of Paris is very beautiful. But we’d argue that Montmartre is the prettiest area of them all. Set on a hill in the 18th arrondissement, there are views across the entire city from the grounds of Sacré-Cœur, the white-domed church. Streets are narrow and filled with restaurants, cafés and shops that seem to have been dropped in from a French arthouse movie. There’s an artists’ market for perusing, too.
Yes, in some ways. Other than Montmartre, it’s a fairly flat city and lots of the landmarks are clustered together. You can walk from the Arc de Triomphe to the Eiffel Tower in under 30 minutes, for example, while a stroll from the Louvre to Notre Dame should take less than 20 minutes. Plan to spend some time in each area, grouping the neighbourhoods that are close together into one day – you can always catch the metro if you’re less mobile or get tired. Much of the metro is wheelchair accessible, but you can also get buses or taxis to move about the city.
Paris is a big, bustling capital city – so while most travel here goes smoothly, it’s always worth being aware of your surroundings. As with lots of big cities, crimes such as thefts and pickpocketing do happen. Apply common sense: in busy areas, ensure that bags are well-fastened; don’t keep all your valuables (passport, credit cards, phone) in one place; and stay vigilant in crowded tourist areas and on the metro.
The Eiffel Tower.
The Musee du Louvre.
Sacré Coeur Basilica & Montmartre.
Notre Dame de Paris.
Le Marais.
Musee D’Orsay.
Jardin du Luxembourg.
Versailles.
Where to Stay to Experience a Paris “Village”: Montmartre, 18th Arrondissement. Best Place to Stay in Paris for Fantastic Boutiques, Galleries, Bistros, Bars, & Nightlife: The Marais, 3rd & 4th Arrondissements. Best Central Paris Neighborhood for Your Budget: The Latin Quarter, 5th District.
Eiffel Tower – The Number 1 Attraction in Paris. Soaring high above the Paris landscape, the Eiffel Tower symbolizes Paris – and gives you spectacular city views from three levels.
The city’s historic neighborhoods, such as the 16th arrondissement, the 7th arrondissement, and the elegant 8th arrondissement, are home to some of the most expensive real estate in the world.
The Champs-Élysées. Easily the most famous street in the city, the Champs – Élysées connects two of Paris’ most iconic sights; the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde and the Tuileries Garden. The street name translates to ‘Elysian Fields’, which was the resting place of Greek gods, and this sense of grandeur still exists today.
The main neighborhoods to avoid in the 18th arrondissement are Barbès, Pigalle, and Red Castle. In the morning, a large flea market is set up between Porte de Clignancourt and Saint Ouean, but at night these areas aren’t very safe.
Montmartre, the most romantic district in Paris. Afterwards couples can wander hand in hand through the romantic, small, cobbled streets that make Montmartre so utterly charming.
Paris is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, there are areas you should be cautious about, especially at night. Avoid neighborhoods like northern parts of the 18th and 19th arrondissements, and the area around Gare du Nord, which can be sketchy after dark.