10 Best areas to stay in Paris – and what hotels to book!

Paris, the city of love, lights, and oh-so-much culture, is a mix of unique neighborhoods each with its own vibe and cool spots.

Looking for romance, a deep dive into history, or just want to wander and soak it all in? Paris has the perfect spot for you.

Check out this list of the top 10 neighborhoods to stay in Paris, especially if you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to stay in Paris’s best neighborhoods. I have also made some hotel recommendations for places in Paris so you can go ahead choosing the best hotels in the city, focusing on the guide to where to stay.

1. Marais – The Trendsetter’s Dream

Right in the heart of Paris, the Marais district is known for its stunning old buildings, cool street art, and trendy shops. It is the best place to stay in Paris if you are looking for that true Parisin feel!

Walking through the Marais is honestly like stepping into a mix of the old and new. It is a go-to spot for both travelers and locals looking to dive into one of the most vibrant parts of Paris.

I absolutely love wandering through the narrow streets of Marais, finding secret gardens and hidden courtyards. For me, Marais is all about surprises and discoveries. It’s where the past and present meet, every corner has a story, and here you will find that Parisian vibe you see in the movies, especially walking through the area of Paris like the Marais.

The Marais is home to some of the best hotels in Paris, these are the hotels I recommend:

2. Saint-Germain-des-Prés – The Artistic Soul

If you absolutely love art like me, you’ve got to check out Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris, known for its boutique hotels and vibrant art scene. It’s a dream! I abolutely love spending time here getting lost in its art galleries. They really do have everything from the latest art scenes to those timeless classics.

Don’t miss out on the cafes either – they’re legendary, especially in areas like Montmartre which is known for its lively nightlife. Famous writers and philosophers used to hang out there all the time, chatting about big ideas and new books over coffee. And for a dose of romance, you can always take a stroll across the Pont des Arts. The view of the Seine here is absolutely unreal. It is probably one of the most romantic bridges in Paris!

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the best places to stay in Paris. These are the three hotels I would recommend:

3. Montmartre – The Bohemian Paradise

Montmartre sits on a hill with absolutely killer views of Paris. This neighborhood in Paris is famous not just for the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica but also for its artsy vibe. This is a great area to stay in Paris if you are on a romantic little city trip! Not in the least because you will have an amazing view of the Eiffel Tower from the steps of the Sacre Coeur, perfect for those looking to stay in Montmartre.

The area has been a magnet for artists and dreamers for ages.

I love walking through the cobblestone streets because it feels like you’re stepping right into a painting. It’s just magical. In Momtmartre you will also find lots of cozy cafes, cute art galleries, and street artists capturing the essence of Parisian life.

The reason why I love Montmartre so much is because it mixes history, art, and amazing views in a way that’s unforgettable for anyone wanting to dive into the heart and soul of Paris.

If you want to stay in the Montmartre district of Paris (which I would recommend if it is your first trip to Paris) these are the hotels I would recommend: 

4. Latin Quarter – The Scholar’s Retreat

The Latin Quarter is like the brainy spot of Paris, all thanks to the famous Sorbonne University being there.

Don’t be put off by this though because trust me: it’s not just about schools and colleges, though. 

Have you heard of the Shakespeare and Company bookstore? It’s really famous and a real haven for anyone who loves books. Whenever I take a trip to Paris, I just have to visit this amazing book store!

Plus, with all the students hanging around, the place is very lively!

The Latin quarter is a mix of old-school learning and modern student life which makes the area incredibly nice to stay in.

If you want to stay in the Latin quarter, these are the three hotels I would recommend, each offering a unique charm and boutique hotel experience. 

5. Champs-Élysées – The Epitome of Luxury

Looking for the ultimate Parisian luxury? Then you can’t beat the Champs-Élysées.

This street is where you’ll find all the big-name fashion brands showing off their flagship stores, nearby the Notre Dame, adding a historic touch to your shopping spree. And then there’s the Arc de Triomphe at the end of the avenue, adding a bit of historical flair to all that modern luxury.

But I have to be honest: for me the Champs-Elysees is not all about shopping. The place is also packed with great spots to eat, from cool cafés to fancy restaurants, with something for everyone, making it one of Paris’s best areas for food lovers.

This is one of the best areas in Paris if you are into luxury. Some of the best hotels in the city are very near!

If you want a hotel near the Champs-Elysees, these are the tree hotels I would recommend: 

6. Canal Saint-Martin – The Hipster’s Hideout

I love Canal Saint-Martin – and not just because it was featured in the movie Amelie Poulin. This neighborhood has an amazing atmosphere, filled with cool cafes, trendy bars, and beautiful canal views. This is the best area to stay if you love having coffees in nice little coffee shops or want to go sip craft beer listening to Manouche in the evening.

I love Canal Saint-Martin, especially when I am looking for a laid-back spot that is still packed with amazing things to do and see.

Fancy a cozy coffee date, a relaxed walk by the canal, or a lively night out? This place has it all.

Canal Saint Martin is the best neighborhood in Paris if you know the city quite well and want a relaxed trip. These are the hotels I would recommend:

7. Belleville – The Cultural Melting Pot

Right in the heart of Paris, Belleville is this super cool spot buzzing with creativity and diversity. It’s famous for its amazing street art that covers the walls, bringing together pieces from both local and international artists.

Another reason why I love Belleville so much is because it is also packed with trendy galleries showcasing the latest in contemporary art, drawing in art lovers from everywhere.

Belleville honestly has this unique, lively vibe that makes it a must-visit for anyone up for exploring the rich mix of culture, art, and stunning sights Paris has to offer, including its nightlife.

The Belleville district in Paris is great if you are looking for a budget hotel but not so much if you are travelling to Paris for the first time. These are the hotels I would recommned:

8. Bastille – The Revolutionary Spirit

The Bastille neighborhood is pretty amazing when it comes to its history, especially around the famous Place de la Bastille, known as a pivotal area of Paris. This is where some of the most important parts of the French revolution took place so it is a great area for history buffs. It also has a lot of cool cafes, bars, and markets. It’s a cool mix, really.

Bastille, in the 4th, 11th, and 12th arrondissements of paris is a paris neighborhood that has a lot to offer. It is also suitable for those looking to travel to Paris on a budget. If you are looking for where to stay: these are my recommendations.

9. La Defence – Modern finance district

La Defense is a very modern and almost futuristic neighborhood just outside the centre. I have stayed here a few times because it is a bit cheaper than staying in the centre of Paris and here you can also find one of Europe’s largest shopping centers, Les Quatre Temps.

La Defence is a financial district with lots of skyscrapers and especially the Grande Arche is world famous. La Defence is located on a hill so from here you will have amazing views over the city and you can see the Eiffel Tower!

If you are looking for a hotel in Paris that is not too expensive, La Defence is the best neighborhood to look out for.

La Defence is my favorite area in Paris for shopping. It is not in central Paris but the arche is on my list of the best things to do in Paris. Here are my hotel recommendations:

10. Gros-Caillou – For fans of the Eiffel Tower

Last but not least you can also stay in Gros-Caillou which is the area right between the Eiffel Tower and Hotel des Invalides.

Gros-Caillou has lots of beautiful Haussmann buildings and you will have easy access to Champ de Mars. There are lots of nice little cafes here and I especially love Amorino Gelato for a little ice.

If you want to visit paris for just one night and want to stay near the Eiffel Tower, this is where I would recommend you stayed as it is within walking distance of the Eiffel Tower.

Gros-Caillou in the 7th arrondissement in Paris is one of the best areas to stay if you want an Eiffel Tower view. I’ve been to Paris lots of times and can say that this is one of the best areas if it is your first time in Paris and you have a larger budget.

Here are my top recommendations: