Planning a trip to Paris and not sure where to stay? We want to help by explaining which neighborhoods are the best and which hotels to consider. We’re Paris experts, so you can trust we know the best hotels and where to stay in Paris.
Best for families:Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement)
Most laid-back vibe:Montmartre (18th arrondissement)
Best for iconic sightseeing:Louvre/Tuileries (1st arrondissement)
Top Hotels in Saint-Germain-des-Prés: 6th Arrondissement
Saint-Germain-des-Prés feels like the Paris you’ve seen in movies—cobblestones, art galleries, and cafés that have been here for centuries. It’s an easy walk to the Seine, Luxembourg Gardens, and even the Louvre across the river. If you’re here for a romantic escape or a chic city break, this is the neighborhood to stay in.
Why Stay in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
This is where Paris slows down just enough to feel local, without ever being inconvenient.
Parisian postcard vibes: Sip espresso where philosophers once sat, then stroll past boutiques and art galleries.
Close to the action: The Seine, the Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay are all within walking distance.
Luxury over budget: Hotels here lean upscale, but the splurge comes with quiet streets and effortless charm.
Hotels in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Hôtel de Seine ⭐⭐⭐
Family Friendly • Central Location • Breakfast Buffet
Affordable charm meets convenience with family amenities, a breakfast buffet, and a prime spot near Paris’ cafés and river walks.
The 1st arrondissement is Paris at its most iconic, where the Louvre and Tuileries Gardens set the scene for postcard views. Step outside your hotel and you’re within walking distance of Palais Royal, the Seine, and major museums in every direction. Metro stops are everywhere, so even the farthest neighborhoods are just a quick ride away.
Why Stay Near the Louvre
Staying here puts you at the very center of the city, with unbeatable access to art, gardens, and historic landmarks.
Museums on your doorstep: From the Louvre to Musée de l’Orangerie, the city’s masterpieces are just minutes away.
Walkable wonderland: Tuileries, Pont Neuf, and the Seine are perfect for early-morning strolls or sunset photos.
Touristy but convenient: Crowds are part of the deal, but the payoff is never needing a taxi to reach the highlights.
Hotels Near the Louvre
Hôtel Mayfair Paris ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Room Service • Comfy Beds • Near Landmarks
A cozy base with connecting room options, in-room massages, and an unbeatable spot for exploring Paris on foot.
Top Hotels in the Latin Quarter: 5th Arrondissement
The Latin Quarter is Paris at its most spirited, where centuries of history meet bustling student life. Cobblestone lanes hide bookstores and cozy cafés, while market streets like Rue Mouffetard overflow with cheese and fresh bread. It’s well-connected by metro and perfectly placed for wandering on foot.
Why Stay in the Latin Quarter
Stay here if you want authentic eats, walk-everywhere convenience, and a youthful vibe that keeps things interesting long after sunset.
Historic streets: Explore Roman ruins, Gothic churches, and timeless cafés that have welcomed scholars for centuries.
Alive day and night: It’s busy with students and locals, which keeps the neighborhood fun, safe, and full of energy.
Compact and central: While hotels are cozy, you can stroll to Notre Dame, Luxembourg Gardens, and countless bistros with ease.
Hotels in the Latin Quarter
Hôtel Villa d’Estrées ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Classy Parisian • Breakfast Available • Central Location
A chic Left Bank stay with apartments and rooms, steps from Île Saint-Louis, ideal for travelers craving comfort and central convenience.
Top Hotels in Le Marais: 3rd and 4th Arrondissement
Le Marais blends old-world Paris with youthful energy in the city’s historically Jewish quarter, just east of the Louvre. Think cobblestone lanes, secret courtyards, vibrant LGBTQ+ nightlife, and a food scene that ranges from falafel to foie gras.
Why Stay in Le Marais
If you’re after style, substance, and a side of nightlife, staying in Le Marais hits all the right notes. It’s where cool meets cultural.
Boutiques over brands: Vintage stores and designer-adjacent shops make it a favorite for stylish travelers who hate shopping malls.
Dining to remember: Eat your way through Jewish delis, hip wine bars, and Michelin-recommended bistros within a few blocks.
Too cool for quiet: It can be lively and a little loud—but that’s part of the charm if you want to feel plugged in.
Hotels in Le Marais
Maison Proust ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spa & Hammam • Boutique Luxury • Brand New
With moody interiors and a hammam that feels like a secret sanctuary, it’s the kind of place you’ll never want to leave.
Opéra sits between Montmartre and the Seine, offering easy access to central Paris with a flashier, more local twist. It’s where Paris gets dressed up—think velvet-lined theaters, boutique arcades, and historic chocolatiers all sharing the same blocks. Expect a mix of business bustle, high-end shopping, and after-dark allure.
Why Stay Opéra
Staying here means saying yes to style, convenience, and a slice of real Paris that’s as elegant as it is energetic.
Big on beauty and boutiques: Galeries Lafayette and Printemps are the stars, but charming shops and cafés line nearly every street.
Practical perks: It’s one of the best spots to catch a train, hit a museum, or explore both sides of the Seine.
Not the quietest corner: But that liveliness gives the neighborhood a rhythm that’s hard not to fall for.
Hotels in Opéra
Hôtel Touraine Opéra ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Refined Decor • Room Service • Great Staff
Tucked near department stores and theaters, it’s a warm, welcoming spot with a small bar and great attention to detail.
Montmartre is where Paris shows off its artsy, offbeat side—just north of the Seine but a world away in atmosphere. The hilly streets lead to panoramic views, historic cafés, and the Sacré-Cœur perched high above the city. It’s well-connected by metro and sprinkled with wine bars, bakeries, and street art.
Why Stay in Montmartre
Montmartre offers a village feel with postcard views—ideal for travelers who don’t mind being slightly off the tourist path.
Artistic soul: Home to painters, poets, and performers, the vibe is equal parts postcard and Parisian grit.
Views for days: Catch breathtaking panoramas from Sacré-Cœur and stroll streets that feel straight out of a movie set.
A bit removed, in the best way: It’s not the most central spot—but that’s exactly why it still feels like Paris in secret.
Hotels in Montmartre
Maison Souquet ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Swanky • Lounge • Pool & Hammam
Decadent interiors, plush velvet, and an indulgent spa make Maison Souquet the ultimate romantic splurge just outside Montmartre.
Skip hotels near major train stations like Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est—they’re convenient but feel chaotic and attract pickpockets. Avoid far-north arrondissements, including La Chapelle and Belleville, which are rougher and less tourist-friendly. Porte de la Chapelle is also a no-go due to safety concerns.
Where To Stay in Paris FAQs
What is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris for first-time visitors?
The 1st arrondissement near the Louvre is best for first-timers thanks to its central location and walkable access to major attractions.
Where should couples stay in Paris for a romantic trip?
Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers cozy streets, riverside strolls, and boutique hotels perfect for couples.
What area is best for families in Paris?
The Latin Quarter is family-friendly with central streets, casual dining, and easy access to key sights.
Which Paris neighborhood is best for foodies?
Le Marais and the Latin Quarter have market streets, wine bars, and a mix of casual and upscale dining.
Where can I stay in Paris on a budget?
Montmartre offers more affordable hotels, local vibes, and easy metro access to the center.
What is the most luxurious area to stay in Paris?
Opéra and Le Marais feature 5-star hotels, fine dining, and high-end shopping close to major attractions.
Which Paris neighborhoods are the safest for tourists?
Central areas like the 1st, 5th, and 6th arrondissements are generally safe, especially around popular attractions.
Where should I not stay in Paris?
Avoid the northern edges of the 18th, 19th, and 20th arrondissements, plus areas around major train stations.
How many nights should I stay in Paris?
Plan for 4 to 5 nights to see the highlights comfortably and enjoy both sightseeing and local neighborhoods.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right arrondissement can turn a good Paris trip into a great one. Stay central for effortless sightseeing, go Left Bank for romance, or pick Montmartre if you crave village vibes. Wherever you unpack, the city’s museums, markets, and sunset walks are never far away.
Brandon is a co-founder and owner of The Tour Guy and its subsidiary The Roman Guy. He left the States to travel the world at 18 and never looked back! As an official Tour Guide of Rome and Certified Sommelier, he loves to travel the world and share these experiences with his readers.
I booked an Airbnb apartment at Avenue de Saint-Ouen, very near to the Square des Epinettes. Is this area in the 17th or 18th arrondisement? I hope I chose well!
Merci.
I’ve been to Paris 4 times & this is Very good information!
I booked an Airbnb apartment at Avenue de Saint-Ouen, very near to the Square des Epinettes. Is this area in the 17th or 18th arrondisement? I hope I chose well!
Merci.
Honestly, I haven’t spent much time in the 17th, but I LOVE the 18th. Check out number 7 & 8 on our list of top things to do in Paris. So cool!
https://thetourguy.com/travel-blog/france/paris/the-top-things-to-do-in-paris/
any hotel recommendation around 1st arr. first time to visit.