Where to Stay in Paris: Best Arrondissements and Hotels for Every Type of Traveler

Oh lovely Paris! I am ecstatic that you are planning a trip to Paris, one of my favorite cities, which ironically used to be my least favorite city in Europe.

It may have been where we stayed, or perhaps the food that we ate. Why would you pick a 3-star Chinese Restaurant while in Paris? Whatever the case, I have grown and learned since those silly college days and am here to help you not make my same mistake.

In this post, I will share with you my recommendations for where to stay in Paris for every budget and needs. Here is your comprehensive guide to the best arrondissements to stay in Paris for every type of traveler including hotel and Airbnb recommendations.

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What is an Arrondissement?

An arrondissement (sometimes shortened to “Arr.”) is an administrative district within the city of Paris. In Paris there are 20 different arrondissements, starting with the 1st arrondissement at the center of Paris and the others spiral clockwise from there. Each arrondissement may include multiple Parisian Quartiers, neighborhoods, or one neighborhood could span two arrondissements.

Pro Tip: To know which arrondissement you are in, check the postal codes as the number of the arrondissement is indicated by the last two digits in most Parisian postal codes.

The Best Arrondissements to Stay in Paris

Deciding which arrondissement to stay in Paris is the biggest decision you have to tackle before booking accommodation. Paris is rather large, so planning to stay near the activities you have planned is a good idea. But location isn’t the only thing to consider.

For example, we love staying in the 6th Arrondissement, Saint Germain des Pres neighborhood, because there is an abundance of great French shopping and delicious authentic restaurants. This area is also slightly less touristy than near the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, or the Arc du Triomphe which is something we value when we retreat to our room at the end of the day.

On the other hand, booking accommodation close to the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, or the Arc du Triomphe puts you in the center of the action and saves you time in commuting or using the metro.

What I’m getting at is there is no one-size fits all arrondissement that suits everybody. So to help you make the best decision for your trip to Paris, I have put together a quick summary of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris depending on your needs.

Related Post: A Complete Guide to the Best of Paris

Here is a quick summary of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris:

• 1st & 2nd Arrondissement (Louvre) – The best place to stay in Paris for your first time as it is close to major sights
• 3rd & 4th Arrondissement (Marais) – The best place to stay in Paris to feel like a local
• 5th Arrondissement (The Latin Quarter) – The best place to stay in Paris for families
• 6th Arrondissement (Saint Germain des Pres) – The best place to stay for established French shopping and cafes
• 7th Arrondissement (Home to the Eiffel Tower) – The best place to stay for up-and-coming French shopping and cafes
• 8th Arrondissement (Champs-Élysées) – The best place to stay in Paris to splurge on shopping and hotels
• 9th – 12th Arrondissement – The best place to stay in Paris for cheap
• 15th & 16th Arrondissement – The best place to stay for views of the Eiffel Tower and Arch du Triomphe
• 18th Arrondissement (Montmartre) – Home to arguably the prettiest streets in Paris, Montmartre is where you want to stay to feel the old romance of Paris from the 20’s

The Paris Accommodation Guide

Now that we have a high-level road map to the best arrondissements in Paris for every type of traveler, let’s get into my specific hotel and Airbnb recommendations. All hotels and Airbnb/VRBOs included in this article are highly rated and close to a metro station for easy access. If I haven’t personally experienced a stay myself, the property comes highly recommended by others who have based on reviews.

Prices* below are based on the Paris short-term rental market $: 100 – 200/ night, $$: 200 – 300/night, $$$: 300 – 400/night, $$$$: 400+/night (*all prices are subject to change based on the season, local events, ect. Use the buttons provided below to check current pricing and availability.)

Where to Stay in Paris for your First Time

If it is your first time in Paris, you will likely want to stay in the center of Paris, the 1st Arrondissement and the 2nd Arrondissement, near all the major sights and museums. From here you will easily be able to explore the Notre Dame, the Louvre, and Tuileries Garden. Rue de Rivoli is one of the main streets that runs through this area of Paris.

As this is the center area of Paris, expect to pay more for hotels than you would in other arrondissements. But with all of the finest Paris tourist attractions at your fingertips, it’s easy to see why the 1st and 2nd Arrondissements are the best locations to stay in Paris for sightseeing

The Hoxton Paris – $$

The Hoxton Paris is located just 750 feet from Grands Boulevards Metro Station in the 2nd Arrondissement. The rooms are extremely trendy and masculine, decorated with dark colors, clean lines and lots of leather accents.

Opened in 2017, the Hoxton in Paris quickly became the newest hot spot to stay in Paris. There is also a convenient on-site restaurant and bar for you to enjoy!

This is one of the hotels that is very high on my list for when we return to Paris! For current pricing and availability, feel free to use the buttons below!

Hôtel Brighton – Esprit de France – $$

Hotel Brighton is located inside a 19th-century building opposite the Louvre and the Tuileries Gardens. This hotel is furnished with antique furniture and chandeliers giving you a true Parisian experience. All of Paris’s attractions are easily accessible on foot from this hotel, but there is the Tuileries Metro Station just 150 feet from the hotel.

An Exquisite Airbnb next to the Louvre – $$

Photos via Airbnb, book here

This Airbnb is located in a beautiful building on avenue Victoria in the heart of Paris between the Louvre and Notre Dame which puts you in the perfect spot for exploring. It is fitted with air conditioning and top of the line furniture and linens.

Modern Airbnb in the 2nd Arrondissement – $$$

Photos via Airbnb, book here

My jaw dropped when I saw this Airbnb with its clean white décor and the outdoor green space. This Airbnb will truly become part of your Paris experience. If you find this Airbnb available for your dates, don’t wait to book as it won’t be available for long.

The Best Area to Live Like a Local in Paris

The best area to live like a local in Paris is in Le Marais. Le Marais in the 3rd and 4th Arrondissement is the best place to stay in Paris to feel like a local because of the Parisian-charm of the neighborhood that is nestled away from the tourist spots, but still close enough to reach easily.

The Marais is one of the oldest areas of Paris, and many say is the best place to stay in Paris. The streets are all cobblestoned, line with small, authentic French shops and cafes. If this is a return trip for you to Paris, I think that this is one of the best places to stay!

Hôtel Providence – $$

This hotel is so high on my list of places to stay when we return to Paris. The patterned wall paper and dark velvet accents are such a modern French speakeasy vibe, and I’m here for it. Located in the norther part of Marais this puts you a little closer to Montmartre and a total local feel to the area.

If you aren’t actually staying at this hotel, check out the onsite restaurant for a similar vibe.

Dandy Hotel & Kitchen – $$

Just when I thought I had found the trendiest hotel in all of Paris, then I came across the Dandy Hotel and Kitchen in the heart of Marais. I’m almost speechless by the décor, every detail what thought of and executed on perfectly.

I’m counting down the days till I can plan a trip back to Paris and stay at this gem of a hotel!

Make sure to check out the restaurant and bar at the first level, and take advantage of relaxing out on the patio and people watching.

Beauquartier Paris – Montorgueil – $

This cozy apartment-style accommodation has a living room and a fully equipped kitchen. What screams living like a local more that stopping by the French market to cook lunch or dinner in your full kitchen? This property is 0.6 miles from Louvre museum.

This apartment puts you in one of the best locations in Paris but without a huge hit to your wallet!

Les Tournelles – $

Another great option in Le Marais on a budget is Les Tournelles. This hotel is a 2-minute walk from Place des Vosges and features and the Saint Paul Metro Station is only 1,300 feet away giving you access to all of Paris.

Hotel Les Tournelles puts you in one of the best locations in Paris but without a huge hit to your wallet!

Where to Stay for the Best Landmark Views

The 15th and 16th Arrondissement are the best for where to stay to see famous Parisian landmarks from your hotel room. There are also a few more options in the Splurge section below, but these are very affordable options to have the Eiffel Tower or the Arc du Triomphe to yourself on a private balcony.

Le Metropolitan Paris Tour Eiffel – $$$$

Make sure to splurge and book the Eiffel View Suite at the Le Metropolitan Paris Tour Eiffel for this epic view of the Eiffel Tower!

This hotel is pet friendly and even has a swimming pool for you to enjoy.

Hôtel Splendid Etoile – $$

Not and Eiffel Tower view, but comparable in my book is a view of the famous Arc Du Triomphe from your balcony. Make sure to book the “Privilege Room With View” room option to get this room with a balcony and view of the Arch de Triomphe!

Airbnb in the 16th Arr. with Exceptional view of Eiffel Tower – $$

Can you imagine drinking your coffee in the morning on the patio with this view of the Eiffel Tower? Or is enjoying a bottle of Champagne as the Eiffel Tower sparkles at night more your speed? Book this apartment in the 16th Arrondissement and the Eiffel Tower viewing options are endless!

Where to Stay in Paris with a Family

Sitting on the Left Bank, just a stone’s throw away from Ile de la Cite, is the 5th Arrondissement or the Latin Quarter. Similar to the Marais, this is another neighborhood that is crisscrossed with narrow, maze like streets and small cafes. This area is more quiet than the lively and trendy Marais, which is why I think it is great for families. The cafes here aren’t as crowded, but are still as authentic, and there isn’t as much late night noise in the streets.

Serotel Lutèce – $$$

A great option for families in the Latin Quarter is the Serotel Lutèce Hotel. This hotel has a family room that can accommodate 6 people, an apartment size room (4 people max) , or the option for two connecting rooms (4 people max). This hotel is a 10-minute walk from Jardin du Luxembourg and 1,650 feet from the Censier – Daubenton Metro.

It offers air-conditioned and soundproofed rooms, some even with a private balcony. You can find solitude in the middle of a big city while enjoying the terrace overlooking the garden. This hotel is extremely well rated!

La Perle Hotel – $$

Although not in the Latin Quarter, if you are traveling as a family of 4 or 5 La Perle can accommodate you in the Executive Suite (5 people max), the one-bedroom duplex suite (4 people max), or two connecting double rooms (4 people max).

La Perle is located nearby to the Latin Quarter, in the heart of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, just a 10-minute walk from Saint Michel and Notre Dame. Each room features extremely feminine French décor with original wooden beams and plush beds.

Even if you are just a couple, the reason I would choose this hotel is for the stunning sun room that looks like it could be its own chic Parisian café, with greenery hanging from the ceilings and that impeccable French design. This hotel is very high up on my list to stay when we return to Paris.

Hotel Oratio – $$

If you are traveling with a family of 4, check out the family room at the Hotel Oratio which comes with either 1 queen and 1 double bed or 1 double bed and 2 twin beds. The advantage of booking this hotel is that there are no sofa beds which cane make a big difference on vacation!

This hotel is really well connected to public transportation with Maubert-Mutualité Metro Station only 3 minutes by foot and Cardinal Lemoine Metro Station only 4 minutes away.

Hotel Louis II – $$

Book a family room at this hotel for peace and solitude with a French-flare. The family room accommodates 4 people with 2 queen beds! You can also choose to book a suite which have 1 queen bed and a pull out sofa bed, accommodating 4 people max.

Located in the heart of the Latin Quarter, you can’t go wrong with this location and its proximity to metro stations that connect you to the rest of Paris. My favorite part of this hotel for families or for couples is the tasteful French design with overly comfy beds!

Where to Stay in Paris Close to French Shopping and Cafes

The 6th Arrondissement, mostly dominated by the Saint-Germain des Prés quarter, is a great place to stay for authentic French shopping and cafes. One word comes to mind when I think of Saint-Germain des Prés and it is “sophisticated”. It’s not as ritzy as Champs-Élysées and not as trendy as Le Marais. It is a great mixture of all of the best of Paris.

Hôtel de l’Abbaye – $$$

Photos via Booking.com, book here

Located near the Rue Rennes, the major shopping and café street in Saint-Germain des Prés, this hotel is the perfect location to explore this neighborhood in more depth. My favorite part about this hotel is the garden where you can relax and have breakfast or a cocktail in the afternoon and the incredibly elegant French vibe of the rooms.

Coming back to this hotel to relax might just be the best part of your day!

Welcome Hotel – $ / $$

If you want to save some money on the hotel, I would recommend the Welcome Hotel in the Saint-Germain des Prés area. The rooms are going to be a little more basic, but still comfy and everything you need for your stay in Paris.

With one of the best rated locations for its price, the Welcome Hotel also offers guests a sun terrace with views over Paris! If you want to check current pricing and availability for your dates, use the buttons below.

The Up and Coming Area to Stay in Paris

Hotel Duquesne Eiffel – $ / $$

The 7th arrondissement, and Rue Saint-Dominique, are becoming one of the best eating and shopping streets in Paris. You will not only find amazing views of the Eiffel Tower, but also have at your discretion many flower shops, cafés, French boutiques, bakeries, and restaurants.

Hôtel La Comtesse – $$$ / $$$$

Consider a stay at Hôtel La Comtesse and take advantage of a terrace, a coffee shop/cafe, and a library at the property. For some rest and relaxation, visit the Turkish bath/hammam or the steam room.

Make sure to book one of the classic or superior rooms with an Eiffel Tower side view. If you want to splurge book the Junior suite or the Executive Room for an Eiffel Tower front view!

Derby Alma – $$ / $$$

Photos via Booking.com, book here

Derby Alma is like walking into the cover of Vogue Magazine! There is gold everywhere, but it is tasteful. This hotel scream glitz and glamour, and even better some of the rooms have an Eiffel Tower view from your private patio.

Does it get better than a private Eiffel Tower view in Paris? I personally don’t think so.

Hôtel Le Walt – $$ / $$$

Hotel Le Walt is a design hotel located in the 7th arrondissement that has a private garden terrace for guests to enjoy breakfast or cocktails. Some of the rooms at Le Walt offer a view of the Eiffel Tower, so if this is what you want make sure to confirm during booking.

Pets are also welcome at this hotel for an extra fee! This hotel is not cheap by any means, but it is a less expensive option to get a room with an Eiffel Tower view than the options below which will require a splurge.

Where to Splurge on a Stay in Paris

There is no better arrondissement in Paris to stay if you want to splurge on luxury shopping and accommodation than the 8th Arrondissement. The 8th Arrondissement is most commonly known for the Champs-Élysées, the most famous street in Paris.

Here is where you will find all the major luxury designers, making this street also the most famous shopping street in Paris. Well-known names such as Moncler, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Bvlgari, and Chanel all call the Champs-Élysées home.

Shangri-La Paris – $$$$

One of the most famous hotels in all of Paris, the Shangri-La Paris is definitely a splurge. But just look at this view from your balcony! Can you imagine waking up in the morning to the Eiffel Tower on your private patio?

This is an ultimate bucket list hotel for me to stay in one day in Paris. I’ll keep it right here for when I’m ready to indulge and book that trip!

Hôtel Plaza Athénée – $$$$

The Hôtel Plaza Athénée is pure luxury, with the most incredible views, expansive terraces for guests, and a staff that can help you with any request. Whether you are booking a manicure/pedicure, a facial, or a body treatment at Dior Institut au Plaza Athénée, you will be treated like royalty.

Also be sure to enjoy a meal at any of the 5 onsite restaurants, which feature French cuisine and al fresco dining. Another perk is that the Hôtel Plaza Athénée is pet friendly, so your furry friends can spend their time in Paris in luxury too!

Four Seasons Hotel George V – $$$$

The view from the Four Seasons Hotel George V should probably be on the lists of the “best views in Paris”.

Can you even imagine this being your private patio to enjoy breakfast or sip champagne and watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night? However, this will come with a hefty price tag. Again one day I will stay a night in the Four Seasons Hotel George V. And I might not even sleep because I won’t want to leave this view for a second.

Another pet friendly luxury hotel where pets stay for free!

Where to Stay for Cheap in Paris

The 9th through 12th Arrondissements in Paris are further from the city center of Paris which is why you can find cheaper accommodation here. This is also the area where many of the hostels in Paris are located. This is a great area of Paris to look for affordable hotels or hostels if you are visiting Paris on a budget.

The People Hostel – >$

The People Hostel is located in the 12th Arrondissement about 1.5 miles from Opéra Bastille, 3.1 miles from Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum is 3.1 miles from the property. This is one of the most well rated hostels in Paris, let alone I have ever come across! The reviews are fantastic.

The hostel boasts a bar, shared lounge, garden, and free WiFi. The sprawling terrace overlooking all of Paris (pictured below) and availability of family rooms sets this hostel apart from the others.

There are also both hostel-style dormitory rooms and hotel bedrooms, all with air conditioning and a bathroom. This property usually sells out fast, so make sure to grab your reservation that can be cancelled for a full refund using the buttons below.

Generator Paris Hostel – >$

Generator Paris is a designer hostel in the lively 10th district in Paris. This hostel features a stylish lounge area with game room. You can enjoy locally inspired dishes at the on-site Café Fabien and listen to DJs music and having a drink from the bar.

Each of the contemporary rooms here provide air conditioning, bed linens and a private bathroom with a shower. Some rooms also have a private terrace if you book the king suite, as pictured below.

The Best Area for Couples to Stay in Paris

There is no area more romantic in Paris than Montmartre. Home to arguably the prettiest streets in Paris, Montmartre is where you want to stay if you are a couple to feel the old romance of Paris from the 20’s.

Mom’Art Hotel – $$

The Mom’Art Hotel is a family-run Boutique Hotel located in the heart of Montmartre.  Only 1,300 feet from Sacré-Coeur, this hotel location is perfect for a day exploring Montmartre.

Final Thoughts!

I hope that your trip to Paris is pure magic and you are able to see the warmth and friendliness that we have found in this city and its people. Whether its your first time, or your tenth time to the city, if you have any questions at all about what to do in Paris, drop me a comment below!

If you are looking for some additional Paris recommendations, check out my Best of Paris post for more inspiration on restaurants, museums, and many more!

Looking for more Paris inspiration? You may also enjoy these Paris related posts:

• 16 Prettiest Streets in Paris & the History
• Spring in Paris: The Best Spots for Spring Blossoms
• Top 15 Things to do in Paris in the Winter
• A Complete Guide to the Best of Paris

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