Where to Stay in Paris: A Neighborhood Guide

Short answer: for a first visit, stay in the Marais or Saint-Germain if your budget allows, or the Latin Quarter if you want to spend a bit less. Everything else below is about why, and about the exceptions.

The Marais (3rd and 4th)

Old streets, galleries, small museums, great falafel on Rue des Rosiers, and a busy bar scene. It's central, you can walk to Notre-Dame and the Louvre, and there's always something open. It can be noisy at night, so ask for a room away from the street.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th)

More polished and a bit calmer. Famous literary cafés, expensive shops, and the Luxembourg Gardens nearby. The Orsay and the Louvre are both a short walk away across the river. It's one of the most expensive areas.

The Latin Quarter (5th)

Around the Sorbonne university, with narrow medieval streets, bookshops and cheaper places to eat. Lively, sometimes a little touristy near the river, and generally better value than the 6th.

Montmartre (18th)

Hilly and village-like, with a real neighbourhood feel away from Sacré-Cœur. Good if you've been to Paris before or want somewhere with character. You'll spend more time on the metro to reach the main sights, and the area around Pigalle at the bottom of the hill is rougher at night.

Near the Eiffel Tower (7th and 15th)

Quiet, residential and safe, with some hotels that have tower views. Good for families. Evenings are calm, which some people love and others find dull.

Things to check before booking

Paris hotel rooms are small, often smaller than you'd expect. Many older buildings have tiny lifts or none at all. Check for air conditioning if you're travelling in summer. Being close to a metro station matters more than being close to any one sight.

Prices jump during Fashion Week and big events, so book early if your dates overlap.