5 COOLEST Neighborhoods in Paris
Paris is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. Brimming with arts, culture, food and fashion, this City of Lights will excite and ignite the senses of all who explore it.
But, all that excitement comes at a cost. That’s why we wrote this insider’s guide for where to stay in Paris so you can save money while experiencing all the very best of the French capital!
Put together by our expert travel writers, this no-stress guide breaks down the best areas in Paris by interest so you can quickly find the neighbourhood that meets your style and your budget.
Get excited – our guide will answer all your questions about where to stay in Paris. Some of the neighborhoods will amaze you…
Table of Contents
- Where to Stay in Paris
- Paris’ 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
- Neighborhood #1 - Champs Élysêes
- (Where to stay for your first time in Paris)
- Top Things to Do in Champs Élysêes
- Where to Stay in Champs Élysêes
- Neighborhood #2 - Montmartre
- (Where to stay in Paris on a budget)
- Top Things to Do in Montmartre
- Where to Stay in Montmartre
- Neighborhood #3 - Le Marais
- (Best area to stay in Paris for nightlife)
- Top Things to Do in Le Marais
- Where to Stay in Le Marais
- Neighborhood #4 - Latin Quarter
- (Coolest place to stay in Paris)
- Top Things to Do in Latin Quarter
- Where to Stay in Latin Quarter
- Neighborhood #5 - Champs de Mars
- (Best neighbourhood in Paris for families)
- Top Things to Do in Champs de Mars
- Where to Stay in Champs de Mars
- Final thoughts on where to stay in Paris
Quick Tips – Where to Stay in Paris
Where to Stay in Paris
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Paris.
| WHERE TO STAY IN PARIS | |||
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BEST Air BnBBEST Air BnBVictoria’s BnB |
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Book on Air BnB → |
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BEST Budget HotelBEST Budget HotelHotel Saint Pierre |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Mid-RangeBEST Mid-RangeAmarante Champs Elysees |
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Book on Booking.com → |
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BEST Luxury HotelBEST Luxury HotelMaison Souquet |
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Book on Booking.com → |
Best Air BnB in Paris – Victoria’s BnB
Victoria’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Paris
This BnB is not only one of the most stylish stays in all of Paris, but will also have you enjoying the finer side of France for half of the price of a 5-star hotel. Victoria’s flat is as homey as it is elegant, with its wide-open rooms and large windows looking out onto the streets of Paris, there is no better place to kick off your dream holiday!
Best Budget Hotel in Paris – Hotel Saint Pierre
Hotel Saint Pierre is the best budget hotel in Paris
If you are looking for a budget-friendly and centrally located hotel in Paris, Hotel Saint Pierre is a great place to stay. The rooms are humble yet homely and there is WiFi throughout the hotel. To top it off, breakfast is included in the room rate.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Paris – Amarante Champs Elysees
Amarante Champs Elysees is the best mid-range hotel in Paris
An affordable yet boutique hotel in Paris that offers you the chance to experience sheer Parisian class for a reasonable price. Many rooms offer incredible city views and all have ornate, regal decor. The staff are really lovely and can help with your travel plans. Breakfast is included.
Best Luxury Hotel in Paris – Maison Souquet
Maison Souquet is the best luxury hotel in Paris
One of the best hotels in Paris, Maison Souquet is the epitome of Parisian luxury. The rooms are opulent and grand. The colour schemes, the decor and the furniture make you feel like you are stepping back in time. There is a gym in-house and a wonderful wellness centre.
Paris Neighbourhoods Guide
Paris Neighbourhoods Guide
Paris
Paris is an incredible city to explore, there is a good reason why it tops the bucket list of wanderlust-fuelled travellers from around the world. It is true there is a romance, a charm, to Paris that must be experienced to be believed.
But don’t be fooled by the movies, it’s not all slow-paced saunters down the Champs Élysêes. There is a diverse and vibrant collection of neighbourhoods that come together to create modern-day Paris.
There are the affluent and opulent neighbourhoods of Champ de Mars and the Champs Élysêes. Then there are the historical districts like Notre Dame and the Latin Quarter. Lest we forget backpacker-friendly Montmartre with its budget bistros and affordable hostels.
It’s no secret that Paris is one of the most expensive cities in Europe to travel in. There are a few ways in which you can help yourself stay on budget. Paris is a very walkable city. There is a great amount of signage and if you’re ever in doubt, just follow the crowds. Chances are they are looking for the same landmark too! Walking around Paris does help you to feel like you’re in the movies – no matter when you visit!
If you don’t fancy walking worry not, the Paris Metro system is surprisingly easy to navigate – you can even get to the Palace of Versailles in less than an hour! What’s more, the Metro runs late into the night, so if you find yourself caught up in a whirlwind Parisian romance you can get back to your hotel with ease.
Paris is also a short distance from other amazing destinations in France, so consider booking a car and taking a day trip!
Paris’ 5 Best Neighbourhoods to Stay in
Now let’s take a look, in greater detail, at the best neighbourhoods to stay in Paris. Each is a little different to the last so be sure to check out which is right for you!
Neighborhood #1 - Champs Élysêes
Neighborhood #1 - Champs Élysêes
(Where to stay for your first time in Paris)
Champs Élysées is our pick for where to stay for your first time in Paris
The Champs Élysêes is Paris’ most iconic neighbourhood. Ideal for first-time travellers who want to soak up all the high-class Parisian vibes during their stay. The Champs Élysêes is, in fact, one of the most affluent neighbourhoods in Paris, so be sure to get saving if you want to live the high life around here!
The Champs Élysêes is where the great and the good come to hang out. You will find stores belonging to some of the world’s greatest designers here, Louis Vuitton, Cartier and Tiffany & Co. to name but a few.
In terms of more historical landmarks, the Champs Élysêes does not disappoint. Here you will find one of Paris’ most famous landmarks, the Arc de Triomphe. This is a great place to mark the beginning of your adventures in Paris.
The Champs Élysêes Gardens are a great place to come and hide out and mull over any big purchases before you part with your cash!
Top Things to Do in Champs Élysêes
- Shop til you drop at the designer stores, everyone from Cartier to Hugo Boss, from Levi’s to Swarovski have shops here
- See what Paris is famous for and take a relaxing stroll and take to a shady spot with a book at the Champs Élysêes Gardens
- Marvel at the most iconic landmark in the neighbourhood the Arc de Triomphe
- Stand small in the shadow of Statue Général Charles de Gaulle.
- Experience an olfactory overload at Le Grand Musée du Parfum
- Appreciate the incredible 19th-Centurarchitecturere of Petit Palais
Where to Stay in Champs Élysêes
Best Air BnB in Champs Élysêes – Benjamin’s BnB
Benjamin’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Champs Élysêes
Exposed brick, sunny rooms, floor to ceiling windows, and a trendy style unlike any other. After seeing Benjamin’s BnB you will find it hard to settle for anything less than perfect. This cozy apartment located right smack in the middle of Paris is sure to blow you away with all the best sites waiting outside your door!
Best Budget Hotel in Champs Élysêes – Hotel Ekta
Hotel Ekta is the best budget hotel in Champs Élysêes
Hotel Ekta is a bright and modern hotel set just back from the Champs Élysêes. Guests can make use of the express check-in service and be back out in the Champs Élysêes the moment they have dumped their bags. Rooms are compact but stylish and comfortable.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Champs Élysêes – Amarante Champs Elysees
Amarante Champs Elysees is the best mid-range hotel in Champs Élysêes
Set right on the Champs Élysêes, Amarante Champs Élysêes is a 4-star hotel that just slips into the mid-range bracket. The staff are incredibly helpful and will help you to make the most of your time in Paris. The rooms are colourful and feature regal French design elements.
Best Luxury Hotel in Champs Élysêes – Fraiser Suites Le Claridge
Fraiser Suites Le Claridge is the best luxury hotel in Champs Élysêes
Luxury on the Champs Élysêes does not get better than Fraiser Suites Le Claridge. There are both double rooms and lavish suites available. The suites have their own cosy seating area and balcony overlooking the Champs Élysêes. Each room has a coffee machine, large flat-screen TV and air conditioning.
Neighborhood #2 - Montmartre
Neighborhood #2 - Montmartre
(Where to stay in Paris on a budget)
Montmartre is our pick for where to stay in Paris on a budget
For budget travellers in Paris, it doesn’t get much better than Montmartre. There is a more of a laid-back feel to Montmartre and much of the stuffiness of central Paris is left far behind.
A little less refined than the Champs Élysêes but no less charming, if you are indifferent about exactly where you stay in Paris and just want a good deal, Montmartre is the place for you.
That said, there is a whole lot to explore in Montmartre. You could spend your whole stay in this neighbourhood and forget about the rest of the city! From budget-friendly bistros serving amazing French food to historical gems like the Sacré-Cœur, there is a heap of adventures lying in wait at Montmartre.
Despite being very much in central Paris, there is a lot of green space to enjoy in Montmartre. What better way to save the pennies than spending some time relaxing in a Parisian park and watching the world go by? Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet is a great spot.
Top Things to Do in Montmartre
- Admire the architectural mastery that is the Sacré-Cœur, this basilica was built in 1914 and is the focal point of Montmartre
- Kick back and relax in Square Marcel Bleustein Blanchet, a great spot to practice your French with locals
- Enter the weird and wonderful world of Salvador Dalí at the Dalí Paris
- Learn about the history of Paris at Musée de Montmartre set in a 17th-Century house
- Dine in laid-back Parisian style at Chez Michou
- Let your hair down and dance the night away at La Machine du Moulin Rouge
Where to Stay in Montmartre
Best Air BnB in Montmartre – Christophe’s BnB
Christophe’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Montmartre
Christophe’s BnB is not only one of the most stylish and boutique apartments in all of Paris, but this stay will really have you living a life of luxury with its very own jacuzzi and stunning views looking out over the city! With its trendy style and undeniable charm, you will never be wanting to check out!
Best Budget Hotel in Montmartre – Timhotel
Timhotel is the best budget hotel in Montmartre
Timhotel is a great little budget hotel in Montmartre. The rooms are clean and cosy, and some offer lovely city views. The design could be argued to be a little dated but there are no complaints about the cost. All rooms have an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning and free WiFi.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Montmartre – Terass’ Hotel Montmartre by MH
Terass’ Hotel Montmartre by MH is the best mid-range hotel in Montmartre
There is a lot to love about Terass’ Hotel, least, not their rooftop dining terrace that overlooks Montmartre. The rooms are wonderfully chic and modern and feature colourful finishing touches. The team can cater to all your needs, meeting rooms, child-sitting services, and concierge services too.
Best Luxury Hotel in Montmartre – Maison Souquet
Maison Souquet is the best luxury hotel in Montmartre
Maison Souquet is the greatest hotel in Montmartre. Offering 5-star opulence from the moment you walk through the door, you will fall in love with this hotel. Each room has a slightly different theme and offers a mini bar and fluffy slippers. There is a swimming pool and wellness spa complex too.
Like good weather? These are the best times to visit Paris!
Neighborhood #3 - Le Marais
Neighborhood #3 - Le Marais
(Best area to stay in Paris for nightlife)
Le Marais is our pick for the best area to stay in Paris for nightlife
If you are seeking to explore Paris after hours then you need to get yourself to Le Marais. A neighbourhood steeped in history you will find some of the swankiest bars in town within the district of Le Marais.
With all the old-world allure you have come to expect from Paris, with a smattering of modern-day quirks, Le Marais is a versatile neighbourhood that is a joy to explore.
There is a fabulous diversity to Le Marais that is something to celebrate. Once an area home to a strong Jewish community, in more recent years Le Marais has become a bustling haven for Paris’s thriving LGBTQ+ community who have turned this neighbourhood into a modern nightlife metropolis.
Before the sun sinks in the sky you can get your historical fix in Le Marais for sure. The Picasso National Museum is quite the sight, inside and out. Set in a marvelous 17th-Century building the museum is home to over 5,000 pieces of art by legendary Pablo Picasso. It’s one of the top museums in Paris!
Top Things to Do in Le Marais
- A must-do in Paris, check out the incredible artwork of Pablo Picasso at the Picasso National Museum
- Mingle and drink with locals at The Auld Alliance – they’re better for beers than cocktails
- Let your senses overload and your imagination run wild at Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest market in Paris. Something for every palette here
- Learn about Le Marais’ Jewish community and visit the Synagogue Agoudas Hakehilos
- Go gay clubbing at freedj or Krash Bar
- Go to The Louvre!
- Take in the panoramic cityscape at Pont Notre-Dame
Where to Stay in Le Marais
Best Air BnB in Le Marais – Guepard’s BnB
Guepard’s BnBGuepard’s BnB Air BnB in Le Marais
Located right by the Sacré Cœur and the Moulin Rouge, Guepard’s BnB will have you staying right in the heart of all the action in the most lively neighborhood in all of Paris! When you aren’t out grabbing a drink at the bar nearby bars, this apartment is the perfect place to call home with it spacious rooms and homey atmosphere!
Best Budget Hotel in Le Marais – MIJE Paris Fauconnier
MIJE Paris Fauconnier is the best budget hotel in Le Marais
MIJE Paris Fauconnier is about as basic as it comes but there is something charming and calming about this hotel. The rooms are comfortable and homely despite their minimalist nature. Perhaps it is the neutral tones or the exposed wooden beams. The sun trapped courtyard is really rather cute.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Le Marais – Hotel Jeanne d’Arc Le Marais
Hotel Jeanne d’ Arc Le Marais is the best mid-range hotel in Le Marais
Set in a grand Le Marais building, Hotel Jeanne d’Arc is an affordable and comfortable option in this neighbourhood. The local staff are wonderfully helpful and will share their hints and tips with tourists. The rooms are well lit and the beds are ultra-comfortable. Breakfast is available for additional cost.
Best Luxury Hotel in Le Marais – Hotel Dupond-Smith
Hotel Dupond-Smith is the best luxury hotel in Le Marais
Chic and stylish in every way, Hotel Dupond-Smith is a modern 5-star hotel in the heart of Le Marais. Within walking distance of cute coffee shops and swanky cocktail bars, this place is a treat. The hotel has its own coffee bar, spa complex and wine tasting evenings.
Neighborhood #4 - Latin Quarter
Neighborhood #4 - Latin Quarter
(Coolest place to stay in Paris)
The Latin Quarter is our pick for coolest place to stay in Paris (Photo credit – Destination 360)
Should you be seeking to stay in the coolest part of Paris, think about the Latin Quarter. Perhaps not an obvious choice when you think about the backpacker-friendly streets of Montmartre and the pumping nightclubs of Le Marais, but the Latin Quarter has a lot on offer.
Simply oozing the Parisian charms that you have been craving, coupled with the fact that locals actually enjoy to hang out here, the Latin Quarter is an amalgamation of everything there is to love about Paris. Coffee bars, patisseries, quaint second-hand bookstores and impressive 18th-Century architecture, the Latin Quarter ticks all the boxes.
The epitome of cool can be found on Rue Mouffetard. Be sure to time your visit on a Sunday if you want to mix with the locals and pursue the traditional market. As a pedestrianised street, you can saunter, stroll and wander at whatever leisurely pace you like, soaking up the dreamy Parisian vibes as you go.
P.S If you’re looking to travel around France, check out our in-depth guides to Lyon (best things to do, where to stay and the best hotels to stay in!). Marseille has some stellar things to do, places to stay and more awesome hotels to stay in! Plus, our epic local guide to the 45 best things to do in France is designed to help you find an amazing day trip – no matter who you are travelling with!
Top Things to Do in Latin Quarter
- Brush up on your French and haggle for the best price at the Sunday Market on Rue Mouffetard
- Take a huge leap back time and learn about life in the Middle Ages at the Cluny Museum – National Museum of the Middle Ages
- Snap a photo or two at the Fontaine Saint-Michel, this monument features St Michel slaying a dragon and was constructed in 1860
- Marvel at the stain-glass windows at the Church of Saint-Séverin
- Spend hours browsing books in the wonderful array of second-hand bookstores in the neighbourhood
Where to Stay in Latin Quarter
Best Air BnB in the Latin Quarter – Anne & Ulysse’s BnB
Anne & Ulysse’s BnB is the best Air BnB in the Latin Quarter
This BnB sets the standard for luxury homey stays in the heart of Paris! With its boutique modern art hanging on the wall, vintage furnishings, and modern comforts, this apartment will be giving you ideas on how to design your flat back home! Pull up a chair next to the fire, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this one of a kind stay!
Best Budget Hotel in Latin Quarter – Hotel Saint Pierre
Hotel Saint Pierre is the best budget hotel in Latin Quarter
Budget-friendly and in a great location in the Latin Quarter, Hotel Saint Pierre offers great value for money. All rooms have an ensuite bathroom and many rooms boast a wonderful view of the city. Each room has a convenient work desk, a flat-screen TV and air conditioning.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Latin Quarter – Hotel Parc Saint Severin
Hotel Parc Saint Severin is the best mid-range hotel in Latin Quarter
Offering cosy, homely rooms with warm tones and soft furnishings, Hotel Parc Saint Severin is a wonderful hotel in the Latin Quarter. The rooms are spacious and offer a work desk and flat-screen TV. There is an express check-in and check-out service.
Best Luxury Hotel in Latin Quarter – Les Rives de Notre Dame
Les Rives de Notre Dame is the best luxury hotel in Latin Quarter
Les Rives de Notre Dame is the very definition of Parisian luxury. The rooms are ornate, regal in fact, and feature period furniture and decor. Every room comes with air conditioning, super-fast WiFi and an in-room safe. There is an airport shuttle service available, enquire at reception.
Neighborhood #5 - Champs de Mars
Neighborhood #5 - Champs de Mars
(Best neighbourhood in Paris for families)
Champs de Mar is our pick for best area in Paris to stay for families (photo credit – booking.com)
Champs de Mars is home to the most iconic landmark in Paris. It is arguably the most iconic landmark in France, even Europe. Of course, Champs de Mars is home to the Eiffel Tower and near some of the coolest things to do in Paris.
Champs de Mars is a great neighbourhood for families because there is just so much space to run around. How much fun can a photo session in front of the Eiffel Tower be? Heaps! There are so many angles to play with. Good fun for all the family.
To appreciate the towering landmark from a different angle, hop across the River Seine and take a stroll through the Trocadéro Gardens. Lined with water fountains and gorgeous flower beds, this place is a real gem.
Foodies will fall in love with Champs de Mars, there are patisseries galore in this neighbourhood. You could totally skip the Eiffel Tour and have a food tour of Paris within this neighbourhood alone! From crepes to coffee, suffice to say you will leave Champs de Mars heavier than you arrived!
Top Things to Do in Champs de Mars
- Make the most of every minute living in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower
- Meader and meditate in the tranquil Trocadéro Gardens
- Take a moment to reflect at the Wall of Peace
- An enlightening alternative tourist destination, take a tour around the Sewers Museum of Paris
- Sip coffee and flick through your photos at Le Café de Mars
- Explore Asian artwork at Musée National des Arts Asiantiques Giument
Where to Stay in Champs de Mars
Best Air BnB in Champs de Mars – Kim’s BnB
Kim’s BnB is the best Air BnB in Champs de Mars
While in Paris, you will want to be sure each romantic evening is spent overlooking the iconic Eiffel Tower. Kim’s flat is one of the best Air BnB’s near the Eiffel Tower and Champs de Mars, putting your right next to all the tourist hotspots in Paris! With its bright and sunny rooms, you will feel like you are a real Parisian!
Best Budget Hotel in Champs de Mars – Hotel Eber
Hotel Eber is the best budget hotel in Champs de Mars
Champs de Mars is an expensive neighbourhood but Hotel Eber is the most affordable of the accommodation options in the area. They have a great selection of rooms and each feature a work desk and wardrobe so you can unpack and spread out. All rooms have private ensuite bathrooms. If you are really on a budget, you can take a look at our guide to the best hostels near the Eiffel Tower.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Champs de Mars – Hotel Le Walt
Hotel Le Walt is the best mid-range hotel in Champs de Mars
Featuring modern furniture and period artwork, Hotel Le Walk perfectly captures the essence of Paris. The rooms are bright and spacious. Each has its own ensuite bathroom, seating area and classic French windows that open up to offer amazing city views. A continental breakfast is included in the room rate.
Best Luxury Hotel in Champs de Mars – Hotel Relais Bosquet
Hotel Relais Bosquet is the best luxury hotel in Champs de Mars
Hotel Relais Bosquet is one of the most highly sought after hotels in Champs de Mars. The staff are exceptional and the attention to detail is outstanding, you never need to ask for a thing. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, featuring period decor and ensuite bathrooms with bathtubs.
Final thoughts on where to stay in Paris
Paris is a city full of magic and wonder. From decadent French fare and ostentatious fashion to iconic sights and historic landmarks, a visit to Paris is nothing short of unforgettable.
To recap our travel guide; Montmartre is our number one choice for the best neighbourhood to stay in if you’re looking to experience Paris on a budget. This quaint arrondissement has everything from great French food to charming historical sights. Our top pick for a mid-range hotel is Terass’ Hotel Montmartre by MH thanks to its chic and modern décor and great dining terrace.
Amarante Champs Elysees is top our recommendation for where to stay in Paris. It is an affordable yet luxurious four-star hotel with amazing views and tasteful décor. For a true Parisian experience, look no further!
Let us know if we missed anything in the comments below! Bon voyage!
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About the Author Aaron Hovanesian
Born in Los Angeles, Aaron Hovanesian is one of the original staff writers for Hotel Jules. Having backpacked the world as a young man, Aaron now prefers to travel the world in luxury, proudly staying in the world's most amazing hotels and properties. When Aaron is not traveling he lives in Western Colorado he can be found brewing his own beer (probably an IPA) or spending time with his two amazing golden retrievers.