Where to Stay in Paris for First-Timers: The Best Arrondissements in the City of Light
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Planning a trip to Paris can be incredibly exciting!
You might be thinking about eating endless flaky, buttery, golden croissants. Or maybe you’re imagining the excitement you feel when you see the iconic Eiffel Tower for the first time!
If you’re a practical planner like me, you’ve probably already done some research about hidden gems in Paris, mapping out the charming neighborhoods and photo-worthy cafés for your Paris bucket list. There are so many incredible museums, churches and landmarks to see when you visit Paris!
The options are endless for finding accommodations in Paris. I’ve always found it daunting to plan a vacation to a new city for the first time, especially a city like Paris, which has a variety of arrondissements, each with their own charm.
The best way to plan your trip to Paris is to choose a location which best suits your travel style and needs.
After visiting Paris several times and staying all over the city, I’ve compiled the ultimate guide for deciding where to stay in Paris! This guide is GREAT for first-time visitors or seasoned travelers looking for recommendations!
Where to Stay in Paris: Quick Tips
Where to Stay
– 3rd, 4th, 11th, or 16th Arrondissements
– BEST BUDGET: The People Belleville
– BEST MID-RANGE: The Stay Le Marais
– Best LUXURY: Maison Bréguet
When to Visit?
My most memorable visits to Paris have been during shoulder season, from April – May or September – October! I highly recommend booking during shoulder season when Paris is less busy!
Where to Stay in Paris: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Visitors
Whether you prefer a luxury hotel close to famous landmarks or a charming boutique surrounded by local cafés and boulangeries, this guide has recommendations for everyone!
Deciding Where to Stay in Paris
Are you a budget traveler hoping to plan the best budget-friendly itinerary? Or would you prefer a classy, historic hotel with access to exclusive Paris shopping and gourmet restaurants?
Would you rather stay near iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or the Arc de Triomphe? Or would you prefer a local experience, with the option to explore off-the-beaten-path streets and cafés?
I recommend making a list of your TOP three requirements for places to stay in Paris…then you can decide on the PERFECT arrondissement that fits your travel style and needs!
Here’s what I looked for in accommodations when deciding where to stay in Paris for my second visit to the city of light!
Access to the Paris Metro
I ALWAYS utilize public transportation (if available) when I travel to another city. When I traveled to Paris for the second time, I brought my family of five with me, so I knew I needed to find a hotel near a metro station. This is usually one of my TOP criterias for finding accommodation in a new city! Access to public transport is very important for creating an easy travel experience!
Family-friendly Accommodation
For my second trip to Paris, I traveled with my family of five. Considering the fact that it was my siblings’ first international trip, I wanted them to feel happy and comfortable about our accommodation. First impressions are important, especially in Paris!
I went back and forth between a budget-friendly hostel, or a highly-rated three- or four-star hotel. I decided to prioritize the family-friendly hotel that could accommodate my large family of five, knowing my family would be more comfortable in a hotel. As someone who is used to “rough-housing it”, a hostel is usually my go-to pick. But for my family trip to Paris, my accommodation needed to be family-friendly and comfortable!
Affordability
Affordability is USUALLY my most important criteria for choosing where to stay in a new city. However, given that I was bringing my family to Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics, I understood that the family trip I planned would not be cheap! There are many ways to make your family or solo trip affordable! Opt for hostels or affordable hotels in local neighborhoods rather than the luxury stays if you are planning a trip to Paris on a budget!
Making a list of your top requirements for deciding where to stay in Paris will help you narrow down locations and accommodation type that will best suit your travel needs!
Best Arrondissements for First-time Visitors
Charming 3rd and 4th Arrondissements:
Le Marais is one of Paris’ most charming neighborhoods, decorated with enchanting cafes and picturesque cobblestone streets. Maintaining Paris’ old-world charm, Le Marais – which sits between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements – is a haven for travelers looking for the artistic, “distinctly Parisian” side of Paris.
Why stay here?
- Central Location: – Le Marais’ central location – near iconic Parisian landmarks like Notre Dame, Hôtel De Ville, Musée Picasso and the Louvre museum – makes it the perfect place to stay for first-time visitors!
- Paris Cafe Culture – Charming cafes decorate the beautiful 3rd and 4th arrondissements! Travelers who would love to explore Paris’ café culture, people watching with a famous Parisian hot chocolate, will really enjoy the slow culture of Le Marais!
- Inclusivity – Le Marais is a cultural hub, hosting the city’s Jewish quarter, and many LGBTQ+ friendly bars!
Ideal For:
All types of travelers will enjoy the charm and beauty of Paris’ 3rd and 4th arrondissements! I highly recommend this area of Paris for couples and first-time visitors hoping to stay in the picturesque, “distinctly Parisian” part of Paris!
Budget-friendly 9th Arrondissement:
Located near the Gare du Nord train station is the 9th arrondissement – the perfect location for budget-conscious travelers hoping to explore Paris without breaking the bank! The 9th arrondissement has many incredible landmarks, including Palais Garnier, the grand opera house. With easy access to one of Paris’ most charming neighborhoods, Montmartre, the 9th arrondissement is a budget-friendly option in a great location!
Why stay here?
- Accessibility to Train and Metro Stations – Proximity to Gare du Nord makes the 9th arrondissement the optimal budget-friendly location for travelers visiting Paris for a short duration. The 9th arrondissement has a multitude of metro stations, connecting budget-friendly travelers to the rest of Paris for an affordable price!
- Central Location – Close to Paris hotspots like Opera Garnier, Galleries Lafayette and the charming neighborhood of Montmartre, the 9th arrondissement is centrally located, but not too touristy.
- Incredible Food Options – South Pigalle is a “foodie paradise” with trendy bars, local cafes and delicious brunch spots. This makes the 9th arrondissement the perfect location for budget-conscious travelers with a big appetite!
Ideal For:
Solo and budget-conscious travelers will love the 9th Arrondissement’s proximity to Paris’ charming neighborhoods and incredible food scene, without feeling too overwhelmed by the busy tourist scene in the other arrondissements!
Near the Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro– The 16th Arrondissement:
The 16th arrondissement has some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, one of the most famous monuments in the entire world. Hotels and accommodations scattered all around the 16th, near Trocadéro flaunt picture-perfect views of the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Why stay here?
- Eiffel Tower at Your Doorstep – I can’t imagine a better view to wake up to than the Eiffel Tower! The 16th arrondissement’s proximity to the iconic landmark makes this location in Paris highly sought after by travelers hoping to catch a glimpse of the monument from hotel balconies and rooftop bars.
- Accessibility to the Paris Metro – One of the most famous metro lines in the world, metro line 6 in Paris, connects the 16th arrondissement to the entire city of Paris. Not only is the Paris metro affordable, it also offers a unique view of the Eiffel Tower on metro line 6!
- Elegant Parisian Architecture – The 16th arrondissement, known for its residential feel, has classic Parisian architecture on every street. Haussmannian buildings and charming cafes decorate every corner, making this location one of the most picture-perfect places in all of Paris!
Ideal For:
The 16th arrondissement is perfect for travelers who want to be in the hustle-and-bustle of the touristy spots. Travelers who are willing to splurge on Eiffel Tower views will really enjoy seeing the iconic landmark from their balconies! NOTE: Expect higher prices for the Eiffel Tower view!
Foodie Paradise – The 11th Arrondissement:
Paris’ vibrant, “local” district – the 11th arrondissement – is paradise for “slow travelers” and foodies, looking to escape the touristy scenes of Paris. With a multitude of buzzing cafes, unique boutiques, and award-winning restaurants, the 11th arrondissement is the perfect place to experience “everyday Paris”.
There are so many incredible restaurants in Paris!
Why stay here?
- Authentic Local Vibe – The 11th arrondissement is where the locals go to hang out. With a plethora of vibrant cafes, boulangeries and wine bars, there is no shortage of “local favorites” to try when you visit the 11th. Canal St. Martin, a tranquil waterway that stretches through the 11th arrondissement is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll or a picnic.
- Foodie Paradise – From authentic Parisian boulangeries to Michelin star restaurants, the 11th arrondissement is a foodie paradise! There’s no shortage of delectable options with global inspired cuisines at every corner!
- Vibrant Nightlife – Whether you’re into live music, cocktails in converted warehouses, or café terraces packed with locals, the 11th is where the city comes alive after dark. It’s also full of street art and indie galleries—hello, hipster Paris!
Ideal For:
The 11th arrondissement is the perfect location for travelers hoping to experience the “local side” of Paris. Home to Canal St. Martin and notable Parisian restaurants, travelers who enjoy relaxing travel and delectable cuisines will really enjoy the 11th arrondissement!
Getting Around Paris: How to Navigate the Paris Metro
The Paris metro is the easiest and most affordable way to travel around Paris. Metro stations are marked by large red or green signs (depending on the neighborhood) and many lines connect and transfer to other lines, making Paris incredibly accessible! When deciding where to stay in Paris, I highly recommend finding accommodation near a metro station!
I highly recommend purchasing a Paris Visite pass – a metro card which provides unlimited use of any and every metro station, including trains – in the city of Paris. When I traveled with my family to Paris, I purchased the Paris Visite pass for each of us in order to have unlimited access to the Paris metro. We spent a lot of time traversing the city, from one side to the other, so having unlimited access to the Paris metro was the most affordable way to go!
For a complete map of the Paris Metro, visit the RATP website!
What is the Paris Visite Pass?
The Paris Visite pass is a ticket card that provides unlimited access to the Paris metro, trams, buses, RER (Réseau Express Régional train network) and other train lines. You can purchase an unlimited use pass for 1, 2, 3, or 5 consecutive days.
Where can the Paris Visite Pass Take Me?
This pass provides unlimited travel via bus, metro or train in the city of Paris and the Île-de-France region. The Paris Visite pass also provides access to Paris airports, Disneyland Paris, and the Palace of Versailles. I highly recommend getting the pass for the entire duration of your visit to Paris so you can have unlimited use of Paris trains, metro and buses. This is the MOST affordable way to get around Paris, besides walking!
Where do I buy the Paris Visite Pass?
The Paris Visite pass can be purchased at kiosks in any metro or RER (train) station. You can also purchase the pass online, for mobile use, if you’d rather not use a physical Navigo card!
How much does the Paris Visite Pass cost?
The Paris Visite pass can be purchased for 1, 2, 3 or 5 consecutive days. The prices are listed in euros and US dollars below!
|
Days |
Adult Pricing (€, $) |
Child Pricing (€, $) |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
€29.90 (~$34 USD) |
€14.95 (~$17 USD) |
|
2 |
€44.45 (~$50 USD) |
€22.20 (~$25 USD) |
|
3 |
€62.30 (~$70 USD) |
€31.15 (~$35 USD) |
|
5 |
€76.25 (~$87 USD) |
€38.10 (~$43 USD) |
Note: The information provided is from the RATP website, current as of April 12th, 2025.
Where to Stay in Paris: By Budget
*Budget range determined by peak season pricing
Le Marais (3rd and 4th ARR)
- Budget: The Stay at Le Marais ($$) – Luxury apartments at an affordable price!
- Mid-Range: Hôtel Sookie & Coffee Shop ($$) – A boutique hotel on the outskirts of Le Marais, just steps away from Musée Picasso.
- Luxury: Le Pavillon de la Reine ($$$$) – A five-star luxury hotel on the outskirts of Le Marais, located adjacent to the beautiful Place des Vosges.
Near the Budget-Friendly 9th ARR
- Budget: Arvor Hotel ($$) – A small, comfortable boutique hotel located a short walk away from Saint-Georges Metro station.
- Mid-Range: Hôtel Belleval ($$) – A charming 4-star hotel just 15 minutes from Champs Élysées.
- Mid-Range: La Maison Favart ($$) – Located steps away from Palais Garnier, La Maison Favart is a charming boutique hotel with ornate rooms for an affordable price.
16th ARR – Near the Eiffel Tower
- Luxury: Canopy by Hilton ($$$) – An upscale, 4-star hotel boasting incredible views of the Eiffel Tower (in certain rooms).
- Luxury: Renaissance Paris Nobel Tour Eiffel ($$$) – A beautiful Marriott Hotel located steps away from Place du Trocadéro and the Eiffel Tower.
The Lively 11th ARR
- Budget: The People Belleville ($) – A comfortable hostel with dorms and private rooms for an affordable price.
- Mid-Range: Hôtel L’Antoine ($$) – A charming boutique hotel with cozy rooms. Hôtel L’Antoine is located a short walk from Ledru-Rollin metro station and Place de Bastille.
- Luxury: Maison Bréguet ($$$) – One of the best places to stay near Place de Bastille, Maison Bréguet is a luxury 5-star resort in a great location.
8 Tips for Booking the Best Accommodations in Paris
1. Book Early!
The early bird gets the croissant! During spring and summer, hotels and activities in Paris book REALLY FAST. Do your research ahead of time and plan in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak season!
2. Prioritize Your Travel Style and Location Preferences
When I traveled a lot as a budget-conscious student, I alway told myself that where I stayed didn’t matter. This worked for 22-year-old Bella who never spent much time at the hostels anyways! But now, I would prefer to find a comfortable accommodation in a great location. As I’ve matured, so has my travel style. Now I always prioritize clean and comfortable accommodation in the local, less-touristy part of a city rather than a bunk in a busy hostel. When deciding where to stay in Paris, consider your travel preferences and the location that suits your style!
3. Check for AC and Elevators
Air conditioning isn’t an issue during shoulder or off season. But there were many (MANY!) times where I found myself unable to sleep in an eight-bed hostel due to lack of air conditioning. When I search for hostels and hotels, I prioritize amenities like air conditioning and elevators for when I carry large bags and suitcases. Air conditioning is a luxury in American hotels, which is often not used in hotels across the world. Check you accommodations amenities before booking to make sure you have everything to make your vacation comfortable!
4. Skip the Hotel Breakfast
There are so many incredible boulangeries and cafes like La Maison d’Isabelle and Mokonuts to name a few. Why spend the morning sipping mediocre hotel coffee if you could indulge in a flaky pastry with a cappuccino in a local cafe? Skip hotel breakfast and hit the cobblestones running! Enjoy Parisian cafe culture!
5. Find a Hotel Near a Metro Station
The Paris metro is the most affordable way to access all of Paris (including locations outside the city like Disneyland Paris and the Palace of Versailles!). To easily access the city’s iconic landmarks without having to pay hefty fees for taxis or private transportation, opt for accommodation near a metro station. The options are endless as the Paris metro is highly accessible from all parts of the city. The metro is the best way to explore Paris without breaking the bank!
6. Read Recent Reviews
The best way to discover whether or not a hotel will be a good fit is to read the recent reviews. What are people saying about the cleanliness of the hotel? How are people describing the location? I always tend to look for any hints or suggestions about the beds…are the mattresses comfortable? Recent reviews for hostels and hotels are more telling than some less-updated blogs. This is a great way to determine where to stay in Paris!
7. Look for Boutique Hotels instead of Chains
I love boutique hotels for their charm and character. Oftentimes you can get more personalized service with a boutique hotel rather than a chain. Plus, you’ll feel more like a Parisian rather than a regular tourist!
8. Beware of “Eiffel Tower Views”
Oftentimes hotels boasting “Eiffel Tower views” might only give you a small sliver of the Eiffel Tower in the distance. You’ll pay a hefty price for a view you could get at a local cafe! Read the reviews or speak directly to the hotel to make sure you get what you pay for! Or choose an affordable hotel with access to the Paris metro so you can visit the Eiffel Tower up close!
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Answers to Common Questions
In my opinion, an “Eiffel Tower view” is just a way for hotels to overcharge for a beautiful view you could otherwise get for free all around the city of Paris! There are so many incredible Eiffel Tower viewing locations all around the city! I recommend booking a hotel with access to a metro station so you can have easy access to the incredible monument.
My two favorite areas in Paris are the 3rd/4th arrondissements (Le Marais) – known for its classic Parisian charm and café culture – and the 11th arrondissement – foodie paradise with a local vibe.
I HIGHLY recommend booking at least three months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak season (May – August). Hostels and hotels in Paris tend to book very quickly!
For families traveling to Paris, I recommend either the 5th arrondissement – the Latin Quarter which features charming restaurants in a quieter part of town – or the 16th arrondissement – a more family-friendly location near Trocadéro and the Eiffel Tower.
Want to explore even MORE Paris content?
Check out my latest Paris blog Posts BELOW ⬇️
Ultimate Paris City Guide: Where to Stay, Things to Do, and MORE!
Explore Paris in 4 Days: The Ultimate 4 Day Paris Itinerary for First-Timers
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