Paris, the City of Lights, is a sprawling city filled with all the romance of which you dream. You could spend more than a week’s vacation roaming through the streets of the city, over its bridges, visiting its cafes, and more. When planning your visit to Paris, choosing in which area to stay can be overwhelming. These are our picks for the best area to stay In Paris for when we visit this gorgeous destination.
On Your First Visit: Sightseeing
For your initial Paris visit – or any subsequent visit during which you want to revisit Paris’ most popular and famous sights – you should stay in the 1st Arrondisement. With a stay in the 1st Arrondisement, you’ll be within very close proximity, and in most cases, within walking distance, to enjoy a glass of wine at one of the cafes along the garden of the Palias Royale. You can also marvel at the stained glass in the Sainte-Chapelle or spend a day wandering through the Louvre and its surrounding environs. Perhaps you would like a walk to Notre Dame Cathedral, the Champs Elysees, the Centre Pompidou, Saint Germain, and the Musee D’Orsay? Yes you can do all of that and more!
Lest we forget Paris’ most notable and easily identifiable icon, the Eiffel Tower. You’ll need to take a short Metro ride to it, but you’ll be in the 1st Arrondisement which is home to one of Paris’ largest Metro hubs, station Chatelet. This makes access to anything accessible by Metro a breeze – including Disneyland Paris if you’re so inclined. While in the 1st Arrondisement, you’ll likely want to stay at Hôtel Ritz Paris. It’s been recently renovated and is home to the Hemmingway Bar.
With Your Love: Romance
Paris, on the whole, is a romantic city. For those whose trip is meant to be a romantic getaway, there is an area of the city that is even more romantic than the rest: Montmartre. Perched on hills offering unparalleled sweeping views of the city, Montmartre is one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods. You’ll enjoy romantic strolls along the cobblestone streets with townhomes covered in ivy. You’ll also be poised to visit the city’s only winery and take in the best view of the city from the Sacré-Cœur. A lovely romantic option for a stay in the area is Montmartre Résidence. A stay there will make you feel like you and your love live in your own Parisian apartment and that you’re not just on a romantic trip.
For the Seasoned Visitor: Food & Wine
Fine French cuisine is an obvious reason to visit Paris. From crepes on the street to traditional, rich French dishes in gorgeous sidewalk cafes and restaurants, you’ll be happy you spent so much time walking so you can enjoy all the deliciousness. The best part of Paris to experience its greatest food and wine is the 11th Arrondisement – at least for true foodies. The 11th Arrondisement has become a breeding ground for innovative and great restaurants from up-and-coming chefs.
As is the vibe of the neighborhood, these restaurants in the 11th Arrondisement are more casual than those to which you may be accustomed in other areas of the city. Don’t let the relaxed atmosphere fool you, you’ll find everything from hip wine bars and food from chefs that are making their marks and setting trends to Michelin Star-rated newcomers. For a stay that will keep you near all of the excellent restaurants so you can fully enjoy your foodie’s visit to Paris, we’d recommend Hotel Paris Bastille Boutet MGallery by Sofitel. While it’s part of a major hotel brand, this boutique location is quaint, and as the hotel’s manager describes it, “a shining example of industrial elegance. Let yourself be seduced by our suites with green terraces and spectacular views over the rooftops of Paris, or treat yourself to a moment of pure relaxation in our spa.”
Choosing the best area to stay in Paris depends on what you plan on doing and seeing on your visit. Our favorites reflect that and will help in your decision-making process. So, tell us, which area appeals to you the most? While you’re making your plans, you’ll want to consider dining at these Michelin Star Restaurants in Paris.
