Where to Stay in Paris – A Neighborhood Guide to Paris Arrondissements

And when it comes down to the French capital, it can get a little overwhelming. Let's face it, Paris is an expensive city. But I did find ways to remain in budget and get a good hotel in a good neighborhood and enjoy all the local delicacies at the same time.

First things first, when it comes to accommodations, you have options: hotels, house rentals (VRBOs), or even hostels. Personally, I'm all about immersing myself in the local vibes, and experiencing the true Parisian lifestyle. So, VRBOs are my go-to choice. You know, blending in like a local rather than feeling like just another tourist. But for Paris, this time we opted for a hotel in the outer ends of the city center.

Talking about hostels, they've seriously stepped up their game recently, offering great budget-friendly options for solo travelers or those exploring the city with friends.

Alright, let's get down to the Arrondissements business. Paris is divided into 20 of them, each with its own unique charm. However, I'll focus on the 1st to 8th Arrondissements, the heart of the city, where most of the magic happens.

1st Arrondissement Louvre

It may be small, but it's one of the oldest and most iconic areas. With the Louvre, Tuileries Gardens, and more, you'll be surrounded by incredible landmarks. But be prepared for the touristy hustle and bustle and slightly higher costs.

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Rue Montorgueil - Paris 1 - 201018 - Les Halles is just steps away while Louvre Museum is an easy 15-minute walk away. Check out other neighborhoods and see more of Paris by hopping on a metro at either Les Halles Station or Etienne Marcel Station, both just 5 minutes away by foot.

This gem offers an old-world feel and is super close to Notre Dame on Île de la Cité. I adore this place for its historical charm, accessibility to public transport, and its proximity to major attractions.

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Hotel du Jeu de Paume - you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Notre-Dame and Panthéon. This 4-star hotel is 1.7 mi (2.7 km) from Louvre Museum and 2.5 mi (4.1 km) from Champs-Élysées.

Intellectual, bohemian, and full of youthful energy, this vibrant quarter is home to universities and prestigious schools. It's definitely one of the coolest neighborhoods in Paris, boasting diversity and lively nightlife.

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Hôtel du Levant - This hotel is just 3 minutes’ walk from the River Seine and Noter Dame Cathedral. Saint-Michel Metro and RER Station is 722 feet away, providing direct access to Orly and Charles de Gaulle Airports. Luxembourg Gardens are 2297 feet away and the hotel is a 15-minute walk from the Church of Saint-Sulpice.

Families, listen up! This charming area is perfect for you. Beautiful gardens, patisseries, and old churches add to the romance and history. But, it's a bit pricey, so be ready for that.

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Hôtel A La Villa des Artistes - A stay at Hôtel A La Villa des Artistes places you in the heart of Paris, within a 15-minute walk of Luxembourg Gardens and Paris Catacombs. This hotel is 1.8 mi (2.8 km) from Louvre Museum and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Notre-Dame.

Hello, iconic Eiffel Tower! Staying here means being up close and personal with this masterpiece. But, it can be a bit far from other attractions, and you'll have to navigate through souvenir shops and tourist traps.

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Relais Bosquet by Malone - With a stay at Relais Bosquet by Malone in Paris (Paris City Center), you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées. This hotel is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Arc de Triomphe and 1.9 mi (3.1 km) from Louvre Museum.

For the shopaholics and Arc de Triomphe admirers, this central location is a dream. But brace yourself for the busy streets and noise from the traffic.

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Holiday Inn Paris Elys?es - Fashion boutiques line the nearby Champs-Elyses and Faubourg de Saint-Honor, and major visitor attractions are easily accessible. It's a two-minute walk to Miromesnil Metro Station, and less than an hour by public transport to Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris Orly Airport.

Art lovers, this one's for you! Montmartre's rich history as an artist's haven is sure to inspire. The Sacré-Cœur Cathedral crowning the hill offers an unparalleled view of the city. Just remember, it's a hilly area, so be ready for some leg work!

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Mercure Paris Montmartre Sacr? Coeur - Located in the heart of Montmartre and close to the Haussmann-Opra district, explore the tiny hilly streets of the area and enjoy coffee at the cute coffee shops in the picturesque setting.

Not everyone will agree to this, and this area misses the traction when compared to other parts of Paris mainly due to its location, but I stayed here on my last trip to Paris, and this neighborhood has grown on me. Lined with cute boutique stores, ice cream parlors, cafes, and eateries, the area is under 3 stops away from Gare de Lyon and has an out-of-ordinary atmosphere.

Here are some stay options in this neighborhood:

1. Campanile Hotel Paris Bercy Village - I have been to Paris 3 times and this city always has something new to offer. Staying in Bercy Village saved me some bucks and I did learn my way around the city better.