The Best Places to Stay in Paris for First-Time Visitors

Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, filled with iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum it’s no wonder that millions of visitors flock to the city each year. But with so many neighborhoods to choose from, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors to decide where to stay. 

This article will share our top picks for the best places to stay in Paris for first-time visitors, from the safest to the most budget-friendly options. Whether you’re looking to walk everywhere, stay in a luxurious hotel or find a budget-friendly option, we’ve got you covered.

Best Area of Paris to Stay In

Paris is divided into 20 neighborhoods called arrondissements, each with its own unique character and charm; The Marais, for example, is known for its charming narrow streets and trendy boutiques, while Saint-Germain-des-Prés is home to some the city’s most famous cafés and literary hotspots. The Latin Quarter is a popular choice for students and academics, thanks to its proximity to the Sorbonne and the many bookstores and libraries in the area.

But when it comes to the best area of Paris to stay in for first-time visitors, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for a central location that’s close to many of the city’s top attractions, the 1st and 2nd arrondissements are a great choice. This is the area where you can find many of Paris’s famous landmarks, such as the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Tuileries Garden.

Another great option for first-time visitors is the 4th arrondissement, which is home to the Marais and the Île de la Cité, where you’ll find the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The Marais is a charming neighborhood with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes, while the Île de la Cité is home to many of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, including Notre-Dame and Sainte-Chapelle.

If you’re looking for a more upscale neighborhood, the 6th arrondissement, home to Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is a great choice. This neighborhood is known for its high-end boutiques, art galleries, and cafés and is also home to the famous Luxembourg Gardens.

Walking-Friendly Accommodations in Paris

Paris is a beautiful and historic city that is known for its charming streets, iconic landmarks, and world-class museums. Visitors to Paris will find that the city is extremely walkable, making it easy to explore all of the top attractions on foot. The trick is to stay in a hotel located in a central area of the city, near many of the top attractions and things to do in Paris.

Some of the best walking-friendly accommodations near popular attractions include:

• Eiffel Tower: Hotel Eiffel Turenne, Hotel Eiffel Rive Gauche
• Louvre Museum: Hotel du Louvre, Hotel Saint-Jacques
• Notre-Dame Cathedral: Hotel Notre Dame, Hotel Saint-Paul Le Marais
• Arc de Triomphe: Hotel Arc de Triomphe, Hotel Balzac
• Sainte-Chapelle: Hotel Sainte Chapelle, Hotel De La Place des Vosges
• Musée d’Orsay: Hotel D’Orsay, Hotel Montalembert
• Palace of Versailles: Hotel Versailles, Hotel Trianon Palace Versailles
• Montmartre: Hotel Montmartre Mon Amour, Hotel Jules and Jim
• Luxembourg Gardens: Hotel Luxembourg Parc, Hotel Saint-Placide
• Champs-Élysées: Hotel Champs Elysees Plaza, Hotel Monceau Etoile
• Tuileries Garden: Hotel Jardin des Tuileries, Hotel Tuileries
• Catacombs of Paris: Hotel Catacombes, Hotel Saint-Jacques
• Pont Neuf: Hotel Pont Neuf, Hotel du Pont Neuf
• Place des Vosges: Hotel Place des Vosges, Hotel de la Place des Vosges

Safety in and around Paris

Paris is generally considered a safe city to visit, but it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Pickpocketing and theft are common in tourist areas, so it’s important to keep your valuables close and be mindful of your surroundings. It’s also a good idea to carry a photocopy of your passport or ID, in case the original is stolen.

Safest Area of Paris to Stay In

When it comes to finding a safe place to stay in Paris, the Marais and Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhoods are great options for first-time visitors. Both neighborhoods have a strong police presence and are popular with tourists, making them less likely to be targeted by criminals. Additionally, these areas are known for their charming streets and beautiful architecture, making them perfect for a safe and enjoyable stay in Paris.

Another good option for a safe place to stay in Paris is the 6th arrondissement, home to the Luxembourg Gardens, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Odeon neighborhood. The area has a high concentration of police and is also one of the most wealthy neighborhoods in Paris, so it’s less likely to be targeted by criminals.

In any case, it’s always a good idea to research the area where you plan to stay in advance and to be aware of your surroundings while walking around the city.

The beauty of Paris

When it comes to choosing the best places to stay in Paris, the city’s stunning beauty should be a top consideration. Paris is known for its charming streets, picturesque gardens, and iconic landmarks, and staying in the right location can enhance the overall experience.

One of the prettiest streets in Paris is the rue Crémieux, located in the 12th arrondissement. The street is lined with pastel-colored houses and is a popular spot for photographers and Instagram enthusiasts. Another beautiful street is the rue des Thermopyles in the 14th arrondissement, known for its charming townhouses and tree-lined sidewalks.

As for the prettiest place in Paris, it’s hard to narrow it down to just one. The Luxembourg Gardens, located in the 6th arrondissement, is a must-see for its beautiful landscaping, fountains, and sculptures. Montmartre, located in the 18th arrondissement, is another picturesque spot with its charming streets, bohemian atmosphere, and stunning views of the city. The Place des Vosges, located in the Marais, is also a beautiful spot known for its symmetrical architecture and lush greenery.

When considering where to stay in Paris, it’s important to remember that staying close to these beautiful streets and places can greatly enhance your experience.

Time and Budget needed to experience Paris

Paris is a city that can take a lifetime to fully explore, but even a short visit can be incredibly rewarding. When it comes to determining how much time you should spend in Paris, it largely depends on your own interests and priorities. 

Is staying 3 full days in Paris enough?

For first-time visitors, three days can be enough to see the main sights and get a sense of the city’s charm and culture. However, many travelers prefer to stay for a week or more to fully immerse themselves in the Parisian experience.

Where should you stay in Paris when you’re on a budget?

When it comes to budget-friendly accommodations in Paris, there are plenty of options that offer great value for money. For example, hotels like Hôtel de la Place des Vosges and Hôtel Saint-Paul Le Marais offer comfortable rooms in the heart of Paris, close to many of the city’s main attractions. Similarly, apartments like Le Marais Apartment and Saint-Germain-des-Prés Apartment are great options for budget-conscious travelers who want to be close to all the action.

Best Arrondissement to stay in Paris

With its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class museums, it’s no surprise that it attracts millions of visitors each year. When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Paris, it can be overwhelming with so many options available.

Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, each with its own unique characteristics and charm. The 1st arrondissement is home to some of Paris’ most famous landmarks, such as the Louvre Museum and the Tuileries Garden. The Marais, located in the 4th and 3rd arrondissements, is a popular destination for its charming streets, trendy boutiques, and historic architecture. The 6th arrondissement, also known as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is famous for its cafés, art galleries, and luxury boutiques.

For first-time visitors, the best arrondissement to stay in is the 7th arrondissement. This arrondissement is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Musée d’Orsay. It’s also a great location for walking to major attractions, with the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe just a short walk away. The 7th arrondissement is also known for its high-end hotels, luxury boutiques, and fine dining restaurants, such as L’Arpege, Taillevent, Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, Guy Savoy, L’Ambroisie, Septime, Le Jules Verne, L’Astrance, Le Chateaubriand and Alléno Paris au Pavillon Ledoyen.

Posh and Luxury neighborhoods

Paris is known for its luxury and high-end lifestyle, and when it comes to places to stay, the city does not disappoint. From posh hotels to elegant restaurants, Paris has it all. For those looking for a luxurious experience during their stay in the city, there are a number of options to choose from.

One of the top luxury restaurants in Paris is L’Arpege, a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique dining experience. The menu is based on seasonal and organic products, and the service is outstanding. Taillevent is another three-Michelin-starred restaurant famous for its traditional French cuisine and extensive wine list.

Another great option is Alain Ducasse au Plaza Athénée, as the restaurant has been awarded three Michelin stars, and offers a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower.

For an even more exclusive experience, L’Ambroisie is a Michelin three-star restaurant that offers traditional French cuisine with a modern twist. Septime is another three-Michelin-starred restaurant, known for its contemporary French cuisine and beautiful atmosphere.

Other elegant restaurants to visit in Paris

• Le Jules Verne, located on the Eiffel Tower, offers a unique dining experience with a panoramic view of the city. 
• L’Astrance is another three-Michelin-starred restaurant known for its contemporary French cuisine and beautiful atmosphere. 
• Le Chateaubriand is a popular restaurant known for its contemporary French cuisine and casual atmosphere.

Luxury places to stay in Paris

For those looking for a more luxurious experience, plenty of high-end hotels and apartments in Paris offer a special ambiance and a great location. For example, hotels like L’Hôtel and Le Meurice are both located in the heart of Paris and offer luxurious amenities and impeccable service. Similarly, apartments like Le Marais Loft and Le Palais Royal Apartment offer spacious and stylish accommodations.

Best places to stay in Paris for couples

Paris is known as the city of love and is a top destination for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city is filled with charming streets, picturesque bridges, and iconic landmarks that make for the perfect backdrop to a romantic vacation.

When it comes to choosing the best place to stay in Paris for couples, there are a few neighborhoods that stand out. The Marais is a great option with its narrow, winding streets and historic architecture. This area is also known for its trendy boutiques and cozy cafes, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon exploring together. Another great option is Saint-Germain-des-Prés, home to the city’s literary and artistic history. This neighborhood is known for its high-end boutiques and designer shops, as well as its world-class restaurants and cafes. Couples can also opt to stay in the 7th arrondissement, where they can find some of the most luxurious hotels in Paris, including the Hotel Ritz Paris and the Plaza Athénée. This area is also home to the famous Eiffel Tower, making it the perfect location for couples looking for a romantic getaway.

Best places to stay in Paris when attending events

Paris is a city that has long been associated with style, culture, and entertainment; from world-renowned fashion events like Paris Fashion Week to legendary performers like Edith Piaf and Serge Gainsbourg.

When it comes to attending these events, choosing the right place to stay in Paris can make all the difference. Whether you’re a fashionista looking to attend the latest runway shows or a sports fan wanting to catch a glimpse of Kylian Mbappé in action, there are plenty of great options for accommodation in the city.

For fashion lovers, staying in the 8th arrondissement, home to the Grand Palais and the famous Avenue des Champs-Elysées. This area is also home to many luxury hotels, such as the Plaza Athénée and the George V, making it the perfect spot to mix business with pleasure.

The 16th arrondissement would be a great option for sports fans, as it is home to the Parc des Princes, the Paris Saint-Germain Football Club stadium. Staying in this area will also give you easy access to Roland Garros, which hosts the French Open.

Music lovers will appreciate the 18th arrondissement, famous for being the birthplace of Edith Piaf and the location of the famous Moulin Rouge. This neighborhood also hosts events such as Fête de la Musique and Nuit Blanche, and is home to many hotels and apartments that offer easy access to the city’s best music venues.

Best places to stay in Paris, France

In this article, we have discussed the best places to stay in Paris for first-time visitors, including the best area of Paris to stay in, walking-friendly accommodations, safety in and around the city, the posh and luxury side of Paris, and the best places to stay in Paris when attending events.

When choosing where to stay in Paris, it’s important to consider the neighborhood and its proximity to the major attractions. The Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Le Louvre are great options for first-time visitors as they offer a central location and easy access to many of Paris’ top sights. Additionally, walking-friendly accommodations such as hotels and apartments in these areas will make it easy to explore the city on foot.

Safety is always a concern when traveling, and Paris is no exception. While the city is generally safe, it’s important to take precautions and stay aware of your surroundings. The safest area of Paris for first-time visitors is likely the 8th arrondissement, which includes popular areas such as the Champs-Elysées and the Arc de Triomphe.

Attending events in Paris can also add an extra layer of excitement to your trip. Paris is home to many famous people and events such as Paris Fashion Week, Kylian Mbappé, Tour de France, Paris Marathon, Fête de la Musique, and Nuit Blanche. It is essential to book accommodation in the area near the event’s venue for easy access.

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