WHERE TO STAY IN PARIS FOR THE FIRST TIME

Where is the best area to stay in Paris?

Paris is a city that never fails to delight its visitors. With world class monuments, fantastic museums and a wealth of wonderful cafes, you’re sure to find something you like in the French capital. Whether you’re strolling along the beautiful Seine river, exploring the meandering streets of Montmartre, or soaking up the atmosphere at the Eiffel Tower, you’ll experience the elegance and chic that Paris is famous for. While you’re there, pay a visit to the Louvre where you’ll see some of the world’s most celebrated artworks on display, including the Mona Lisa.

The best area to stay in Paris, in our opinion, is in either the 7th or 8th arrondissement. In the 7th arrondissement, you have attractions like the iconic Eiffel Tower and the Musée d'Orsay. In the 8th, you can be within walking distance of the Arc de Triomphe and the popular shopping street Avenue des Champs-Élysées. This is an area with excellent restaurants and cafes where you’ll also find many designer boutiques. The beauty of both of these areas is that they have great transport links, thanks to the Paris metro which will take you to all of the major tourist attractions.

BEST LOCATED HOTELS IN PARIS
Hotel	Price per night
Hotel de L'Universite 22 rue de l'Université RECOMMENDED / BEST VALUE	189€ - 212$
Le Pavillon Hotel 54 rue Saint Dominique	213€ - 239$
Hôtel De l'Arcade 9, Rue De L'arcade	249€ - 279$
Hotel	Price per night
Hotel Francois 1er 7 Rue de Magellan	237€ - 265$
Splendid Etoile 1 Ave Carnot	271€ - 304$
Hotel	Price per night
Maison Albar Hotel Opera Diamond 4, rue de la Pépinière RECOMMENDED / BEST VALUE	247€ - 277$
Le Cinq Codet 5 rue Louis Codet	347€ - 389$
Sofitel Paris Arc De Triomphe 14 Rue Beaujon	441€ - 494$
Hotel Plaza Athenee Paris 25 Avenue Montaigne	1210€ - 1,355$

If you are interested in where to stay in Paris, you may also be interested in where to stay in Nice

Other areas to stay in Paris

With 20 arrondissements in Paris, there are many options of where to stay. Each quarter has efficient access to the city centre and the main tourist sites as the city is very well connected with the underground metro train. The closer you stay to the city, for example in the 7th and 8th arrondissement, the better access you will have to these historic views but the higher the price will be for accommodation. Staying in a further out arrondissement will mean more travel time to the city centre but a lower price tag.

The Latin Quarter (5th and 6th arrondissement)

This is predominately a student and tourist region in Paris which offers inexpensive and affordable accommodation options. Most places are open late and there is a vibrant nightlife to suit the younger population drawn to this area. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to cater for all age ranges and there are a number of speciality stores and boutique shopping options here.

Saint-Germain-de-Pres Area (6th arrondissement)

This part is less dominated by students and becomes more fashionable and chic. There are trendy bars and nightclubs with a range of restaurants to choose from. The picturesque churches and uneven cobblestone roads provide a perfect backdrop to any accommodation choice here.

Montparnasse and Alesia Area (6th and 14th arrondissement)

Still close to the city centre but somewhat less hectic, here you will find a range of excellent cafes and restaurants with amazing cityscape sceneries. The pace of this region is less frantic and the prices are more affordable compared to the inner city, but you will still experience a great vibe and atmosphere in this arrondissement.

The Ile Saint-Louis Area (4th arrondissement)

This is the smaller of the two islands in the Seine and provides calm and quaint picturesque views. There aren’t many hotels here so the prices are quite expensive, but the charm and hospitality make it value for money. Some small restaurants and shops are available on the island, and there is easy access to the main city. Staying on the island is a perfect romantic getaway which will have a secluded and private charm right in the heart of Paris.

The Marais Area (4th and 3rd arrondissement)

This area is incredibly hip and trendy as well as being quiet and mysterious at the same time. There are trendy restaurants and chic shopping outlets available as well as vibrant nightclubs and an enthusiastic nightlife. Generally younger people tend to head towards accommodation here.

Montmarte Area (18th arrondissement)

Towards the northern edge of the city, Montmarte tends to be viewed as the bohemian delight of Paris and revered for its art and music culture. The surrounding area offers stunning views of the city and quiet restaurants and cafes dot the hillside. The significant Sacre Coeur basilica can be seen from any accommodation option here and will certainly impress with its grandeur.

Bastille Area (11th arrondissement)

Close to the Gare de Lyon, one of the main train stations in Paris to access the RER and country trains, this is a rather funky area to stay in. There are plenty of cafes and restaurants to watch the world pass by, and flea markets to browse through and find some unique and excellent bargains.