10 of the Best Neighborhoods in Paris and How To Visit

One of Paris’ most popular neighborhoods, the Latin Quarter (also known as the city’s 5th arrondissement) was frequented by some of the 20th century’s most influential artists and literary luminaries. Today, it’s still renowned for its bohemian, romantic spirit. The area also maintains an erudite feel, thanks to universities such as the Sorbonne and the storied Shakespeare and Company Bookstore. But if you want to unwind after all that learning, you can always head to the Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) or embark on a food-and-wine tour.

Historically the city’s Jewish quarter, Le Marais is now one of Paris’ hippest neighborhoods, spread across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. Its narrow streets are filled with upscale boutiques, stylish cafés, and cutting-edge galleries.

The area is also a sightseeing heavyweight, thanks to landmarks such as the Picasso Museum (Musée National Picasso Paris) and the historic Place des Vosges, a classically French square with beautiful buildings. Don’t forget to sample the falafel sandwich at L’As du Fallafel on the Rue des Rosiers—it’s one of the city’s essential eating experiences.

In Paris, the Seine always gets top billing. While the Canal Saint-Martin can’t quite compete, the waterway is quite lovely in its own way. Located in the 10th arrondissement, the boho neighborhood that shares its name falls well off the typical tourist trail. You’ll likely spot locals chatting and picnicking along the water’s edge (or occupying the wine bars and cafés nearby)—pick up a snack and drink and join them. Or set off with a Parisian in tow to discover this area’s charm on an off-the-beaten-path walking tour.

Poised in the lofty 18th arrondissement, hilly Montmartre offers unbeatable views overlooking Paris and beyond. Make like Amélie Poulain and ascend to Sacré Coeur Basilica (Basilique du Sacré-Coeur) for the best angles. Once there, swing by other local landmarks, such as Montmartre Cemetery, and stop by the Rue des Martyrs to browse boutiques and gourmet food shops. Once the sun sets, head to nearby Pigalle for an after-dark cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge.

Also known as le premier arrondissement, the 1st arrondissement is the very heart of Paris. It may be small, but this neighborhood packs plenty of bang for its sightseeing buck. Its most famous attraction is unquestionably the Louvre, where you should plan to book a private tour to beat the worst of the crowds. The 1st arrondissement also houses the Palais Royal, Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries), and Les Halles, all of which are worth a visit.

Just west of the Latin Quarter in the 6th arrondissement, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is home to two famous cafés, Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, where the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Simone de Beauvoir once lingered.

Today, the neighborhood has grown into the epitome of chic Paris. Stroll its boulevards on a walking tour, browse its shops, head out for an evening of jazz, and wander into the church for which the area is named.

Yes, Paris is home to islands. While the western half of Île de la Cité is technically part of the 1st arrondissement, the island—one of two Seine islands in Paris—really is an entity all its own. Boasting two of Paris’ most noteworthy monuments (Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte Chapelle) and traversed by the picturesque Pont Neuf (one of the oldest bridges in Paris), it’s at the top of most visitors’ Paris wish lists.

Spanning four different arrondissements in Paris’ northeast, eclectic Belleville feels like a dynamic counterpoint to the city’s stately, heavily touristed heart. Long home to diverse immigrant communities (it plays host to one of several Parisian Chinatowns), the Belleville of today is a blend of different worlds. Expect to see local markets and restaurants offset by colorful street art and hip coffee roasters. Here, really get to grips with things be heading off on an artist-led walking tour to admire its urban murals or a tasty crawl of its key food stops.

Montparnasse has long been a byword for all things bohemian, and for good reason: Artists such as Yves Klein lived and worked in this Left Bank neighborhood, while luminaries including Marcel Duchamp and Pablo Picasso passed through its studios and cafés. You can soak up that heritage on a Montparnasse cultural tour, and visit the leafy Montparnasse Cemetery to pay tribute at many of these famous figures’ final resting places.

Insider tip: One of Montparnasse’s most recognizable—and controversial—landmarks is the Montparnasse Tower, a brutalist skyscraper that certainly stands out from the Paris cityscape. However, its observation deck offers fabulous views, especially at sunset.

If you love nothing more than classically French luxury, then the well-heeled 16th arrondissement is for you. Located in the city’s southwest, the affluent area is known for high-end shopping; major landmarks including the Arc de Triomphe and the Trocadéro Gardens; and the Bois de Boulogne, Paris’ second-largest public park.

The seizième is also no cultural slouch: The neighborhood is home to museums including the edgy Palais de Tokyo and the contemporary art–laden Louis Vuitton Foundation. And if sports are more your speed, be sure to catch the French Open, which is held at the Stade Roland Garros every spring.