Navigating the neighborhoods in Paris can feel overwhelming. For starters, the city is divvied up into numbered districts referred to as arrondissements, but choosing where to visit requires more than a basic understanding in numbering systems.
Since arrondissements are districts (and not neighborhoods), each arrondissement can have several neighborhoods within its borders. More confusing, some neighborhoods are split between arrondissements, see what I mean?
Having visited the French capital 8+ times (typically for month-long stays), I wrote this guide to lend a helping hand. Visiting an international city (especially with a language barrier) can feel intimidating, so I’d like to iron out the details in the hopes that you’ll love Paris as much as I do. Let’s dive in!
Why are the neighborhoods in Paris known as arrondissements?
Arrondissements translates to districts in French. Each arrondissement is given a number and a name, however some popular neighborhoods in Paris straddle multiple arrondissements. In 1860, a man named Baron Haussmann was instructed by Emperor Napoleon III to re-imagine the city. He was instructed to make it more beautiful and efficient.
After much deliberation, Haussman created a system of arrondissement. He started with the Île de la Cité (the island where Notre Dame is found) and worked his way in a spiral from there (like a snail’s shell), number the remainder of the districts.
The arrondissements help break the city up into more manageable sections. Instead of organizing essential services (garbage pickup, schools zoning, police precincts, etc.) for an entire city, Paris prioritized city planning by district.
Disclaimer: I want to make clear that my Paris neighborhood ranking list isn’t organized by order, I love all these areas for different reasons. This is a ranking of the best neighborhoods in Paris to explore on the days you just want to get lost.
The Best Neighborhoods in Paris to Explore During Your First Visit
Le Marais (4th Arrondissement)
Without doubt Le Marais is the one of the most charming neighborhoods in Paris, which means you can’t afford to miss it. From the unique boutiques to the gorgeous green-spaces Le Marais is a gold-mine ripe for exploration.
The neighborhood straddles both the third and fourth arrondisements, just north of the Seine River. One of the most unbelievable facts about Paris is that Le Marais used to be a swamp, a far-cry from the swanky paradise it is today.
Le Marais is also one of the best neighborhoods in Paris to stay in during a trip. I know that on day one of my visit the neighborhood will provide an unrivaled enchantment, setting the tone for the rest of my stay.
As far as vibe goes – Le Marais provides what you’d expect of a trendy, progressive neighborhood in a major city. There’s a variety of gay bars, art galleries & museums and awe-striking feats of architecture.
Best Things to Do in Le Marais
Visit the Place des Vosges
Dating back to 1605, the Place des Vosges is the former stomping grounds of French royals and nobility. Today, it’s one of the prettiest parks in Paris, surrounded on all sides by beautiful buildings and irresistible cafes.
On any given day you’ll find the park littered with locals sprawled out on picnic blankets, and you should join them! Swing by a cafe for a pastry and cozy-up under a tree, gawking at Parisian life.
As one of the most popular neighborhoods in Paris you’ll soon realize that the park is a common resting-ground for folks from all around globe, all in search of a reprieve for their tired feet. There’s no telling what languages you’ll hear spoken!
Snap a photo in front of Hôtel de Ville
When I visited Paris for the first time and walked past the Hôtel de Ville I thought, how much does a night in there cost?! The thing is huge! It looks like a place where royalty lives.
I didn’t learn until later that it’s not really a hotel, it’s actually city hall. Then I thought, I need to befriend the mayor. The Hôtel de Ville is among the reasons Le Marais is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris, it’s stunning!
Stopping by for a gander at the colossal building is a must for any first time visitor, just know you can’t see the inside. Very important city planning is going on inside and there’s no time for selfies.
If you’re curious, you can take a digital tour of the inside (thanks to Google) here.
Address: Pl. de l’Hôtel de Ville, 75004 Paris
Peruse the Picasso Museum
Pablo Picasso was born in Spain but spent nearly 70 years in Paris, and the city takes pride in him as one of their own. Chief among the reasons Le Marais is known as one of the most artistic neighborhoods in Paris is a museum dedicated to telling his story.
The Musée National Picasso-Paris is a museum dedicated entirely to Picasso’s legacy. The museum houses thousands of Picasso’s personal belongings like photographs, letters and more than 5,000 pieces of his art.
Even the Hôtel Salé, the building that houses the museum, is a joy to wander. Built in the mid 1600’s its been an official Historic Monument since 1968.
Address: 5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris
Le Marais is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris? Need more proof? Read: 20+ Magnificent Things to Do in Le Marais (Paris’ Most Charming Neighborhood).
Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)
From the towering dome of the Basilica of the Sacre Couer (atop the tallest hill in Paris) to the bustling Place du Tertre, experiencing Montmartre’s charm is like being put under a spell.
The neighborhood is a famous art district, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s been home to a pantheon of world famous artists like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh, and continues to be full of artists.
Situated atop the tallest hill in Paris, Montmartre offers panoramic views of the whole city. It does a tremendous job keeping the quaint charm of old Paris neighborhoods alive, captivating more and more people every day.
My only complaint (no relationship is perfect) is the endless stream of crowds. It can feel like an ant colony, crawling over and around people. Alas – when you love something beautiful you’re going to have to fight for tit.
Best Things to Do in Montmartre
Get your portrait done at Place du Tertre
The Place du Tertre is a public square where talented artists congregate to make and sell original artwork al fresco. The most common art you’ll find are caricature portraits.
Folks sit down in front of an artist and have themselves painted or drawn. The portraits are some of the best souvenirs of your time in France, but even if you don’t get one just stopping by to see the process is worth it.
Gawk at the stunning Sacré-Coeur Basilica
The Sacré-Cœur is a breathtaking basilica that’s impossible to ignore. Perched atop a butte, the basilica was built in the Romano-Byzantine style at the end of the 19th century, and used to this day as an important house of worship.
The views of Paris from the Sacré-Cœur are some of the best in the city, and touring the inside is completely free. The crowds can get pretty intense but nonetheless it’s the crown jewel of one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
Watch a Cabaret at the iconic Moulin Rouge
Le Moulin Rouge translates to “The Red Mill” and it’s home to the most famous cabaret in the world. Thanks to both the entertainment and the venue’s history it’s become one of Paris’ most popular tourist attractions.
The cabaret opened in 1889, the same year that Paris hosted the World’s Fair (and built another iconic landmark). Over the years its become a French icon appearing on souvenirs, international movies and inspiring a play.
Each guest receives half a bottle of champagne before being starstruck by the world-class dancing on stage. The lively energy in Le Moulin Rouge is reflective of why Montmartre is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
I have a guide outlining the best things to do in Montmartre! Check it out for more reasons this is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
Saint-Germain des Pres (6th Arrondissement)
When it comes to neighborhoods in Paris few are as captivating as St. Germain des Pres. The quarter was a hotbed for famed writers, musicians and artists during the 20th century and continues to be a powerful place of inspiration.
The neighborhood has become one of the top tourist destinations in Paris, well known for its high-rolling crowd. You can easily get lost wandering its tree lined promenades or draining your wallet at its luxury boutiques.
Between its storied cafes and thriving nightlife you can spend a full day in Saint-Germain and still find reason to come back for more. That’s why I’ve made it a point to visit the Paris neighborhood every time I visit France!
I will say that it’s gained notoriety for being one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Paris to stay in, but visiting doesn’t have to break the bank.
Best Things to Do in St. Germain
Enjoy coffee (or rosé) at Les Deux Magots
Parisians consider passing time as an art form, and after becoming accustomed to long, leisurely afternoons devoted to nothing I understand the hype. The challenge is knowing which idyllic little cafe to park yourself at, to which I say: Les Deux Magots.
Les Deux Margots dates back to 1884 and has been attracting celebrities, creatives (Hemingway, Picasso) and chic locals ever since. It’s hard to imagine a better way to spend a warm summer evening than nursing a bottle of rosé while people-watching.
I will say that since Saint Germain is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Paris and Les Deux Magots is its most recognizable landmark, it can get busy! Therefore don’t forget to make reservations ahead of time.
Love skincare? Check out Citypharma
Citypharma is the most popular pharmacies in Paris selling discounted skincare, haircare and wellness products. In fact for some folks a visit to Citypharma is the highlight of their time in Paris!
The first time I visited Citypharma I looked at my husband and told him I’d meet him for lunch. I then proceeded to spend the next 2 hours wandering down each aisle. Needless to I loaded my hand basket until my back gave out.
For being one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Paris, St. Germain is lucky to have the discount pharmacy.
Soak in one of Paris’ most underrated museums
Eugene Delacroix was a French painter and leader in the romantic art movement. His former apartment has been transformed into one of the best museums in Paris and surprisingly, it’s rarely busy.
Instead of merely replicating scenes in history, Delacroix mixed emotion into his work. You’ll find a lot of his paintings show movement and action, not just still and posed scenes (which was the norm before romanticism).
There’s also letters, sketches and photographs that give visitors a behind-the-curtain peek into the painter’s school of thought. His approach to painting was unique for the time and inspired future artists like Vincent van Gogh.
For more fun things to do while exploring this beloved neighborhood in Paris read 15 Inspiring Things to Do Saint Germain (That’ll Leave You in Awe).
Champs Elysées (8th Arrondismont)
Technically speaking the Champs-Elysées is an avenue connecting the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. With that said, over the years its surrounding area has transformed into one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
A variety of businesses, restaurants and shops have come to surround the chic Champs-Elysées, hoping to attract some of tourists that visit the iconic avenue.
I’d say they’ve succeeded, the area is never empty! I visited for sunrise once and tourists were out among the early morning garbage-collectors. It’s not hard to see why though, the Champs-Elysées is groegous with a capital G.
As one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris you’re going to want to bring a fully-charged camera. I’ll also mention that photos are great but often photobombed during sunset so waking up early is completely worth it. 😉
Best Things to Do in the Champs Elysées
Stroll down the Champs-Élysées
Yes yes rather obvious but not be overlooked, walking down the Champs-Elysées is one of the quintessential things to do in Paris on your first visit. At the end of the day the avenue is the lifeblood of the neighborhood!
The entire 1.2 mile avenue can be leisurely strolled in less than an hour but I’d plan for more time in case something catches your eye. There’s a plethora of stores along the way including a five-floor Louis Vuitton.
If budget allows let yourself shop a little bit! I’ll be the first to admit the prices can be ridiculous but sometimes splurging is good for the soul.
And if you’re curious as to what Champs-Elysées translates to, it’s Elysian Fields (in reference to the paradise described in ancient Greek mythology).
Climb the Arc de Triomphe
The Arc de Triomphe is a memorial commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte as a tribute to the soldiers who died fighting during the French Revolution and Napoleonic Wars.
The arch is massive, and to my surprise you can climb the inside to a rooftop terrace that offers stunning 360° views of the city. I will mention though, there are no elevators
In order to get to the top of Arc de Triomphe, you’ll need to climb a steep set of stairs (284 steps… you learn a lot about a person during this time).
Tickets need to be bought in advance, but even if you don’t want to climb the Arc de Triomphe you should still visit. You don’t realize how big it is until you’re standing in its shadow!
Watch the sunset from the Pont Alexandre III
The Pont Alexandre III is the bridge that connects the Champs-Elysee with the Hotel des Invalides, one of the best museums in Paris. Although it isn’t technically in the neighborhood it does lead in to it.
The bridge offers some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower. The ornate lamps, golden accents and statues adorn the bridge making it light up during sunset in a scene straight out of a movie.
That’s why you’ll find it full of locals and lovebirds hanging out on the bridge as the sun goes down. The bridge is beautiful, could you have asked for a better entrance to one of the best neighborhoods in Paris?
Louvre/Tuilerie (1st Arrondissement)
At last we hit the heart of Paris – the beautiful, historic, fun 1st arrondissement! You didn’t think I’d leave the home of the Louvre off the list of best neighborhoods in Paris, did ya?
It is the least populated of Paris’ neighborhoods with a large portion of the arrondissement taken up by the Louvre, Tuilieries Garden and a variety of business-oriented buildings. During the day however it feels far from empty!
The Louvre is the neighborhood’s primary attraction from which it gets its name. There’s also a whirlwind of landmarks, attractions, crowds and food carts. Time flies here, which only means you’re having fun.
Since it is by definition in the middle of the city the First Arrondissement is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Paris to stay in. Nonetheless there are too many attractions to stay away so a visit is in the cards!
Best things to do in the 1st Arrondissement
Visit the Louvre
Some folks argue that the Louvre can be skipped on a Paris itinerary for first time visits, but I strongly disagree. Don’t get me wrong, I understand the logic — the Louvre is next-level busy and chaotic!
But why in the world would you miss an opportunity to tour the largest museum in the world? I mean the museum alone vaults the 1st arrondissement to one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
Paintings like the Mona Lisa, statues like the Venus de Milo and artifacts like Napoleon’s Crown are some of the best things to see at the Louvre but only cover a fraction of its 35,000 items on display.
The museum attracts 7.5 million annual visitors so it’s no surprise it’s surrounding neighborhood bears its name. You can (easily) spend a full day getting lost at the Louvre and admiring the valuable and historic artwork.
Rest your feet at the Tuileries Garden
Sandwiched between The Louvre and the Place de Concorde is the Jardin des Tuileries. It was built as the private garden of the Tuileries Palace which served as home to the French monarchs.
After the French Revolution the gardens became a public park, and a beautiful one at that. In the present you can swing by the garden on any given day and find it teeming with vibrant life.
Vendors and street performers set up shop and it feels like both relaxing yet peppy. Parking yourself on a reclining chair and delighting in some of the fresh air is one of the best free things to do in Paris.
The only thing I’ll mention is that the Tuileries Garden’s paths are made of gravel, so when the wind blows it can kick up some dust. Bring sunglasses and stick to the trees if you visit on a windy day.
Stroll the Jardin du Palais Royale
The moment the sun appears, locals and visitors alike flock to the perfectly manicured lawn at Palais Royal Garden in an attempt to take advantage of spring in Paris.
The well maintained garden is a part of a stunning 17th-century palace. It’s home to a stunning fountain, tree-lined pathways and beds of flowers that simply can’t be resisted.
Bring a book, a snack or a friend and hangout near the giant fountain with your legs kicked up, soaking in the sun. There are shops, restaurants and cafes lining the gardens so if you get hungry or need a mid-day pick me up you won’t struggle finding something.
Extra Time? More Great Paris Neighborhoods to Visit
Les Halles (1st arrondissement)
Found in the heart of Paris, Les Halles is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for those who want to be at the center of the action.
It was named after the Les Halles market that once stood at the center of the neighborhood. For centuries it was the largest market in France, booming during the medieval years before being demolished in 1972.
Today it’s been replaced by a modern shopping mall full of major, global brands. The neighborhood’s association with shopping still holds strong, it’s densely packed with stores even outside the mall.
This is one of the smaller neighborhoods in Paris I’ll write about, landlocked by bigger neighborhoods on all sides. With that said it provides plenty of fun and is close to public transit that will take you anywhere in the city.
Best Things to Do in Les Halles
Go shopping
Hey you can’t visit the Fashion Capital of the World and not come back with at least one new piece of clothing (I don’t make the rules). Luckily Les Halles is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for shopping.
There’s an a broad range of stores in Les Halles, most centered around the Westfield shopping mall. It’s also worth mentioning that thanks to stores like Muji, H&M and Zara you don’t have to break the bank (unless you want to).
And this doesn’t technically count as shopping, but the Les Halles mall has a movie theater that screens films in English. It’s worth checking out while you’re enjoying your shopping.
Visit the Church of St. Eustache
I didn’t plan on visiting the Church of St. Eustache when visiting this Paris neighborhood, in fact I had never even heard of it! But boy, it stopped me dead in my tracks.
The facade is a masterful work of architecture. The church combines Gothic, Renaissance and Classical practices into a dazzling, awe-striking display. Some folks think the styles clash, but I personally love it.
And seeing the inside is even better, not to mention completely free. The stained-glass windows provide colorful lighting and the interior is massive. It’s quite impressive for a 400 year old church.
Peruse the Bourse de Commerce — Pinault Collection
A private collection of art spread across three museums in 2 countries, the Pinault Collection is worth tipping your hat to. One of said museums is the Bourse de Commerce, situated in the lovely Les Halles.
It features a variety of contemporary art, including a respectable collection of art by still-budding artists. It’s a great place to glean inspiration and spend an afternoon.
Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)
The Latin Quarter got its name thanks to universities in the area that taught predominantly in Latin until the late 18th century. Presently it’s still riddled with students and universities but thankfully French has become the norm.
Thanks to a young base of locals the Latin Quarter is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for nightlife. Bars are a dime a dozen and you’ll rarely find the streets empty, regardless of the hour.
But don’t let the youthful exuberance make you think the Paris neighborhood is lacking in history. No no, there’s plenty of dazzling architecture (the Pantheon is hard to take your eyes off) and history worth learning.
I should also mention that thanks to its ubiquitous charm the Latin Quarter is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Paris to film in. You might recognize it too, it’s home to Emily’s apartment from Emily in Paris, the church from Midnight in Paris, and a cafe from the movie Amelie.
Best things to Do in the Latin Quarter
Climb the Dome of the Pantheon
Paris’ Pantheon has served a variety of purposes during its 200+ year history, functioning now as a mausoleum for notable French citizens. The building is as a reminder that the Latin Quarter is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris.
The building was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, which is why it shares its name and resemblance.
You should make the time to visit and (bare-minimum) see the outside. If time allows though, the inside is well worth the cost of admission. While inside, take the time to climb the dome (which requires an additional ticket).
The climb is made up of 206 steps but the view is priceless. Paris unveils itself at your feet like a map and you can really appreciate the French capital’s grandeur.
Gawk at the Muséum National d’histoire Naturelle
Initially started in 1635 as the Royal Garden of Medicinal Plants, the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle was formally launched in 1793 during the French Revolution.
Translating to the National Museum of Natural History this is a place science-lovers will thoroughly enjoy. You’ll get to enjoy and learn all about the natural world and the life you find on it.
It’s even nicknamed “The Louvre of Natural Science” so you already know it’ one of Paris’ best museums.
There’s a ton of amazing animal skeletons, a great picnicking area, and unique critters that kids will adore. The museum is a large reason the Latin Quarter is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for families.
Pick up a book from Shakespeare & Company
Shakespeare and Co. has been around since 1951, providing English literature to the people of Paris. It was founded by George Whitman, an American who spent most of his life in France and had a passion for the arts.
The shop regularly has a line out the door, frequented not only by bookworms but also by tourists intrigued by the bookstore’s quaint charm. It’s right next to the Seine River, across from the brilliant Notre Dame Cathedral.
While the bookstore has been around for a while, the addition of the coffee shop is still relatively new. It’s one of the best cafes in Paris and a great place to stop for a much needed caffeine-fix.
Bastille (4th, 11th, 12th Arrondissements)
The Bastille was a fortress and prison that stood for 400 years, serving as a reminder of the firm grasp France’s monarchy had on its subjects. On the 14th of July in 1789 it was stormed by citizens sparking the flame that’d become the French Revolution.
But I’m not here to give you a history lesson, I’m here to talk to you about the best neighborhoods in Paris. Today the Bastille is one of the liveliest neighborhoods in Paris equipped with a full arsenal of cafes, bars and shops.
During my most recent visit to France I stayed for a month in Bastille and loved every minute of it.
I will say that I found the neighborhood to be loud in the evenings. There was a nearby bar where happy locals would sing well into the morning hours, but it eventually became a part of the environment, like birds chirping in the morning.
Best things to Do in Bastille
Peruse the Marche Bastille
The Marche Bastille is a market that sells everything from clothing to fresh fish. It’s like a pop-up Costco where haggling is the name of the game! You’ll be able to visit and walk away with everything you need, and then some.
The market is open on Thursdays and Sundays and the vendors set up shop as early as 7AM. If you have a crisp €5 bill in your pocket it’s one of the best places to be in the Paris neighborhood.
Enjoy a show at the Bastille Opera
The Opera National de Paris is a 350+ year old institution that performs some of the best stage-productions anywhere in the world.
With theatres spread across different neighborhoods in Paris, the Opera Bastille might just be the most dazzling. The modern exterior of the building oddly fits in with the much older neighborhood drawing you in .
Seeing a show is one of the best things to do in Paris at night, not only thanks to the world-class entertainment but because of the pageantry. You get to dress up in your Sunday best, drink fancy champagne and have a ball.
Not to mention it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Paris. As fancy as it feels, you can still find tickets online for under €20 and still have cash leftover for dinner!
Bar hop on the Rue de Lappe
I’m confident that on a warm Friday night the Rue de Lapp is the happiest street on earth. The narrow cobble-stone street swells with tourists and locals gathering in one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
The street is lined with cafes, bars and restaurants on both sides. Loud music is to be expected and drinks flow so much you’d think you’re in Munich on Oktoberfest.
With so many options it’s easy to hop from pub to pub, meeting new people along the way and sampling the best of Paris nightlife.
Belleville (20th & 19th Arrondissements)
Belleville is technically in four arrondissements, with the main street, the Rue de Belleville serving as a border between the 19th and 20th.
It’s long been one of the most welcoming neighborhoods in Paris for immigrants. It was a refuge for German Jews during WWII, Spaniards during the Spanish Civil War and since the 1980’s the location of Paris’ second Chinatown.
Presently Belleville is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris for folks looking to relax thanks to two sprawling parks. There’s also an abundance of cafes where you can read books or just get peace of mind.
All in all, Belleville is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris if you want to feel more like a local. By no means is it the most beautiful Paris neighborhood, but sometimes the real world has blemishes right?
Best things to Do in Belleville
Enjoy sunset from the Belvedere de Belleville
Belleville is on a hill and one of the highest neighborhoods in Paris, second only to Montmartre. This means you can expect sweeping views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower.
Knowing that they have a prime viewpoint, Belleville installed a designated viewpoint in their namesake park, it’s called the Belvedere de Belleville (say that three times fast).
It’s especially striking during sunset but I must offer a word of caution. Paris is a big city so you need to be on the lookout for pickpockets and folks that are generally up to no good. Since the belvedere is in a park I suggest only staying past sunset if you feel safe.
This isn’t mean to scare you away, I want you to enjoy the Parc de Belleville! I just want you to stay safe, is all.
Relax at the Parc des Buttes Chaumont
The fifth largest park in Paris, the Parc du Buttes Chaumont arguably feels the most insulated from the chaos of the city. The lush greenery has a way of isolating you from the major metropolitan area just beyond the trees.
The park is gorgeous, the design makes it feel like a monarch’s garden. There is the Temple de la Sybille (which is more of a gazebo) towering above the lake on a cliff and a bridge that takes you across the bridge onto an island.
You can spend days hanging out in the park, it’s inspirational and dreamy. It’s one of the principal reasons that I say Belleville is one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
Pick up a bite at the Belleville Market
Along the Rue de Belleville there is a market that sets up shop every Tuesday and Friday. It’s called Le Marche de Belleville and it’s open from around 7AM to 2PM.
The neighborhood’s strong immigrant community means you’ll find ingredients from all over the world. There’s a strong base of African and Chinese food stalls that will offer a level of authenticity hard to find elsewhere.
I’ll add that if you do choose to visit you should bring euros. A lot of the food is priced at bargain-prices and you’ll find it’s not convenient (or sometimes accepted) to whip out a credit card for a €2 purchase.
Gros-Caillou (7th Arrondissement)
One of the most expensive neighborhoods in Paris, Gros-Caillou is chic and captivating. I mean how could it not be? It’s the home of the Eiffel Tower! Not only that, the neighborhood is home to a plethora of administrative buildings and embassies. Seeing folks in business suits and fancy cars is not out of the norm.
I will mention that this is often one of the handful of neighborhoods in Paris folks try to stay in when visiting. I’d personally suggest staying in a different part of town (I’m currently working on a post talking about where to stay in Paris) and simply visiting Gros-Caillou.
Luckily you don’t need an invitation to enjoy Gros-Caillou, one of the best neighborhoods in Paris. As you explore the tree-lined streets, fancy restaurants and scenic views of the Iron Lady don’t forget to take a lot of pictures!
Best things to Do in Gros-Caillou
Have a photo shoot with the Iron Lady
If you visit Paris and don’t take a photo with the Eiffel Tower, did you even go? I’m only half-kidding, as Paris most recognizable landmark you have to take a souvenir.
There are plenty of amazing views of the Eiffel Tower, but if you want quick suggestions I recommend visiting the Passerelle Debilly, L’Howea flower shop or where the Rue de l’Université intersects with Avenue de la Bourdonnais.
Peruse the Hôtel des Invalides
Built as a hospital and home for France’s war-heroes, the Hôtel des Invalides has grown to include the Musée de l’Armée (Army Museum) which is in turn home to Napoleon’s tomb.
It’s a can’t miss attraction, Napoleon’s tomb is an impressive display of power and reverence. Tickets are required but they also grant you access to the Army Museum which is not to be short-changed.
There are centuries-old weapons on display as well as exhibitions that educate you on France’s wars. The WWI & WWII exhibit was closed for renovations when I last visited, but friends tell me it’s well worth the price of admission.
Stroll Rue Cler
I first came across the Rue Cler by complete accident when walking towards the Eiffel Tower. It’s basically a short street that’s loaded with restaurants, cafes, a few flower shops and a few small grocery stores.
On my way back from the Eiffel Tower (after being caught in a rainstorm and thinking a second wave was on its way) I picked up a half-rotisserie chicken from Mon Petit Poulet to take home for dinner and, I kid you not, it was one of the most memorable meals I had while in Paris.
The tiny little street is as cute as a button and a good reason to include Gros-Caillou as one of the best neighborhoods in Paris.
Best Paris Neighborhoods (Post Summary)
- Le Marais (4th Arrondissement)
- Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)
- Saint-Germain des Pres (6th Arrondissement)
- Champs Elysées (8th Arrondismont)
- Louvre/Tuileries (1st Arrondissement)
- Les Halles (1st arrondissement)
- Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement)
- Bastille (4th, 11th, 12 arrondissements)
- Belleville (20th, 19th arrondissements)
- Gros-Caillou (7th arrondissement)
Best Neighborhoods in Paris (Map)
I hope I didn’t overload you guys with info! That was my roundup of the best neighborhoods in Paris, I hope you found the article helpful in planning your visit.
Safe travels, we’ll chat soon! Cheers.
What do you think?