Romance, art, fashion and food; Paris is without a doubt one of the most magical and mesmerizing cities in the world.
But, if you’re not careful, a vacation in Paris can quickly break the bank. Which is exactly why we put together this bargain Paris neighborhood guide.
In this article, our expert travel writers break down Paris’ best neighborhood into different categories so you’ll know exactly which is the best neighborhood to stay in Paris based on what you want to do.
So whether you’re looking to have a few drinks, save a few dollars or explore the coolest places to stay in Paris, our guide will give you all the info you need to know – and so much more!
Let’s get right to it – here are our top picks for where to stay in Paris, France.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Paris.
Charming Unit near the Eiffel Tower | Best Airbnb in Paris
You can’t get any closer. This Airbnb is located a few meters from the Eiffel Tower and many other attractions, like the Seine River. Surrounded by fine dining restaurants, cafes and the typical french shops, you will find yourself in the best area to live in. This home is definitely a great choice as it’s one of the best Airbnbs in Paris. You’re also very close to Bus-, Metro- and Train stations.
Cosy Room Central Paris Marais | Best Homestay in Paris
Let’s begin our list of the best homestays in Paris with an awesome central room in Marais! It’s all about location, location, location here, La Marais is THE place to be. Art lovers will be happy to know that the Pompidou Centre is just a stone’s throw away, as well as many other Paris attractions! In the apartment, you’ve got a Nespresso coffee machine in your room and a private bathroom. Perfect for freshening up after a day of exploring the city! This is a good shout for a couple – as well as being romantic, you can split the cost between two!
Le Village Montmartre | Best Hostel in Paris
Le Village Montmartre is the best bed and breakfast hostel in Paris because of its great location, fantastic amenities and excellent pricing. This hostel offers comfortable rooms, a terrace with stunning views, and a relaxing atmosphere. You’ll also be able to enjoy a delicious Parisian breakfast for a small additional charge.
If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest hostels in Paris!
Hotel La Nouvelle Republique | Best Hotel in Paris
Hotel La Nouvelle Republique is our pick for the best hotel in Paris because of its large rooms and luxurious features. This hotel has 30 rooms with comfy furnishing and stylish décor. They offer a range of convenient services and boast a relaxing on-site bar.
Paris Neighborhood Guide – Places to Stay in Paris
Let’s kick off our Paris best areas to stay in the guide.
Eiffel Tower
Paris’ 7th arrondissement is one of the most iconic neighbourhoods in the city. Situated on the left bank, the 7th arrondissement is right in the heart of the action, making it the best neighbourhood in Paris to stay in for sightseeing.
Montmartre
Montmartre is one of the most romantic districts in paris. Situated on a large hill overlooking the city, Montmartre is a labyrinth of cobbled streets that are lined with cafes, bistros and bars.
Oberkampf
For travellers who enjoy nightlife Oberkampf is the best neighbourhood in paris to stay in. Situated in the 11th arrondissement, Oberkampf is a highly diverse and engaging neighbourhood that boasts a wide a variety of restaurants, shops, bars and clubs.
Le Marais
Le Marais is a historic district located on Paris’ right bank. An excellent destination for art lovers, Le Marais is home to some of the finest art galleries and most interesting museums on the planet.
Saint-Germain-des-Pres
Situated on Paris’ left bank, Saint-Germain-des-Pres is one of the classiest districts in the city. Brimming with history, culture, art and cuisine, this centrally located neighbourhood is home to upscale art galleries, iconic museums, world-class restaurants and brand name designer boutiques.
Paris is one of the most iconic cities in the world and a must-visit city to see while backpacking in France. For decades the cosmopolitan capital of France has topped the bucket list of travellers of all ages, styles and budgets.
And, for good reason!
This stunning and striking city boasts a reputation for world-class cuisine, fashion, culture, history and art.
One of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world, there’s so much to see and do in Paris from visiting world-renowned landmarks of Paris to immersing yourself in the world of art to indulging in delectable and mouthwatering cuisine.
The city covers an area of 105 square kilometres. It has a population of more than 2.1 million people who are spread across 20 diverse neighborhoods – or arrondissements.
In order to help you plan an unforgettable trip to the City of Lights, this guide will highlight the five best areas to stay in Paris based on your interests, budget and travel needs.
Paris’ 7th Arrondissement is the best neighborhood in Paris to stay in if you’re visiting for the first time. Here you’ll be close to the city’s most famous tourist attractions, museums, art galleries, restaurants and shops.
Head southeast from here and you’ll arrive in the 6th Arrondissement, Saint-Germain-des-Pres. Our top pick for where to stay in Paris with kids, this neighborhood is bursting with attractions and activities that the whole family will love.
Head across the river to Le Marais, Paris’ 3rd Arrondissement. A lively and vibrant neighborhood, Le Marais is one of the coolest places to stay in Paris because of its many eclectic shops, bars, restaurants and clubs.
Set east of Le Marais is Oberkampf. The 11th Arrondissement of Paris, Oberkampf is characterized by its excellent shopping, dining and nightlife options.
And finally, north of the city centre is the charming Montmartre neighborhood (the 18th Arrondissement). Our recommendation for where to stay in Paris on a budget, Montmartre has a wide selection of good-value hostels and affordable hotels along with great bars, lively restaurants and local shops.
Still not sure which is the best neighborhood in Paris to stay in? Don’t worry; in the next section, we’ll break down each arrondissement in detail.
Paris’s 5 Best Neighborhoods
Now, let’s take a look at the best places in Paris to stay based on what you want to do.
#1 Eiffel Tower (7th Arrondissement) – Where to Stay in Paris for Your First Time
Paris’ 7th Arrondissement is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the city. Situated on the Left Bank, the 7th Arrondissement is right in the heart of the action, making it the best neighborhood in Paris to stay in for sightseeing. It’s home to popular tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides, as well as world-class museums and delicious restaurants. This area is perhaps the best area to stay in Paris the first time around as it’s central and near to famous landmarks. However, it is pricy and perhaps not the coolest area of town.
Because there’s so much to see and do in the 7th Arrondissement, this neighborhood is our pick for where to stay in Paris for your first time. At least some of your epic Paris itinerary will be based around here.
Things to See and Do in Eiffel Tower
- Experience a staggering collection of Impressionist art at the incomparable Musee d’Orsay.
- Explore the Hôpital des Invalides, a complex dating back to the 17th century that houses Napoleon’s Tomb.
- Go for a stroll through the impressive Champs de Mars gardens.
- Marvel at the iconic Eiffel Tower and climb to the top to enjoy panoramic views of Paris.
- See an impressive collection of work at the Musee Rodin.
Yooma Urban Lodge | Best Budget Hotel in Eiffel Tower
This charming property is located in the 15th Arrondissement. It is a short walk to the 7th Arrondissement, the Eiffel Tower and the Musee d’Orsay. This hotel offers modern and cosy private rooms that are outfitted with a variety of features. There’s also a restaurant, fitness room, sauna and garden on-site.
Hotel Le Petit Chomel | Best Hotel in Eiffel Tower
Set in the best neighborhood to stay in Paris for sightseeing, this hotel is close to popular tourist attractions, museums and restaurants. It offers luggage storage and free wifi to guests, and also boasts an in-house bar. Rooms are comfortable and outfitted with a minibar and telephone.
Hotel Saint Dominique | Best Hotel in Eiffel Tower
This is one of the best places to stay in Paris if you’re visiting for the first time because it’s so close to the city’s most iconic tourist attractions. This four-star hotel comes complete with a concierge, luggage storage and an outdoor terrace. It has chic rooms that are outfitted with fabulous and modern features.
Cute flat near Eiffel Tower | Best Airbnb in Eiffel Tower
You can’t get any closer. This Airbnb is located a few meters from the Eiffel Tower and many other attractions, like the Seine River. Surrounded by fine dining restaurants, cafes and the typical french shops, you will find yourself in the best area to live in. This home is definitely a great choice when travelling to Paris for the first time. You’re also very close to Bus-, Metro- and Train stations.
Cute flat near Eiffel Tower is one of our favourites in Paris but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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View on Osprey View on REI#2 Montmartre (18th Arrondissement) – Where to Stay in Paris on a Budget
Montmartre is one of the most romantic districts in Paris. Situated on a large hill overlooking the city, Montmartre is a labyrinth of cobbled streets that are lined with cafes, bistros and bars. Boasting a rustic ambience and village-like feel, Montmartre is one of the best areas to stay in Paris to immerse yourself in authentic French life. Arty Montmartre is another good option for the best place to stay in Paris for first-timers.
This neighborhood is also where you’ll find a high concentration of budget hostels and good-value boutique hotels. Montmartre is our top choice for where to stay in Paris on a budget because it boasts accommodation options to meet any style or budget.
Things to See and Do in Montmartre
- Catch a risqué cabaret performance at the Moulin Rouge.
- Delve deep into the history of Montmartre and some of its most famous residents at the Musee de Montmartre.
- Shop for goods and produce at Le Marche de Barbes, one of the cheapest markets in Paris.
- Visit Espace Dali to see a fantastic collection of works by Salvador Dali.
- Watch street artists in action at the Place du Tertre.
Small studio in best location | Best Airbnb in Montmartre
This charming little studio is perfect for travelling on a budget. You will find yourself living in the most romantic and historical areas of Paris. The studio itself is small, with a pull-out bed, that also acts as a sofa, a small but functional kitchen and a clean bathroom. With an adorable neighborhood and many monuments within walking distance, this Airbnb definitely deserves a spot on our top list.
Le Village Montmartre | Best Hostel in Montmartre
Le Village Montmartre is the best hostel in Paris because of its great location, fantastic amenities and excellent pricing. This hostel offers comfortable rooms, a terrace with stunning views, and a relaxing atmosphere. You’ll also be able to enjoy a delicious Parisian breakfast for a small additional charge.
Le Relais Montmartre | Best Hotel in Montmartre
This hotel is set in one of the best areas to stay in Paris. Not only is it close to the metro, but it is a short walk from the vibrant shops, restaurants and cafes of Montmartre. This delightful three-star hotel offers cosy rooms that are filled with great amenities.
Declic Hotel | Best Hotel in Montmartre
Declic Hotel is an excellent option for Paris accommodation. It has 29 individually decorated rooms with are equipped with comfortable beds and a range of essential amenities. This hotel also offers massage services, luggage storage and a 24-hour reception, perfect for late arrivals. This is also a fantastic option for where to stay in Paris for one night.
Declic Hotel is one of our favourites in Paris but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
#3 Oberkampf (11th Arrondissement) – Where to Stay in Paris for Nightlife
For travellers who enjoy nightlife Oberkampf is the best neighborhood in Paris to stay in. Situated in the 11th Arrondissement, Oberkampf is a highly diverse and engaging neighborhood that boasts a wide variety of restaurants, shops, bars and clubs. Its streets are considered some of the trendiest in the city and exploring the neighborhood is a must for any who loves to be at the centre of the action.
Oberkampf is our top pick for where to stay in Paris for nightlife because this district is bursting with after-dark fun. From basement dive bars to extravagant rooftop patios, there’s something for every taste in hip Oberkampf. If you’re hitting Paris for a weekend and want some action, then this may be the area for you.
Things to See and Do in Oberkampf
- Dance the night away at Le Balajo.
- Feast on French fare at Bistrot Paul Bert.
- Indulge in a sweet treat from the Chambelland Boulangerie.
- Listen to live music at Supersonic.
- Sip cocktails at Café Charbon.
Airy Studio with a Great Location | Best Airbnb in Oberkampf
Located in the heart of the 11th Arrondissement, this Airbnb is close to all the best bars and restaurants Paris has to offer. If you need a place to crash after your night out in Paris – this place is for you! It’s suited to a couple in Paris for a romantic getaway, with the building itself tucked away for extra privacy.
Hotel des Arts | Best Hotel in Oberkampf
Hotel des Arts is situated in one of Paris’ best neighborhoods for nightlife. It is close to popular bars and trendy clubs, and there are a variety of great restaurants nearby. This stylish and modern hotel offers soundproof and individually decorated rooms with high-speed internet, private bathrooms and excellent amenities.
Hotel Bastille | Best Hotel in Oberkampf
This charming hotel is ideally located in Paris. It is a short walk from the nightlife district and is in close proximity to Paris’ most popular tourist attractions. Rooms are well-equipped with modern essentials and free wifi is available throughout the property.
Hotel La Nouvelle Republique | Best Hotel in Oberkampf
Hotel La Nouvelle Republique is our pick for the best hotel in Paris because of its large rooms and luxurious features. This hotel has 30 rooms with comfy furnishing and stylish décor. They offer a range of convenient services and boast a relaxing on-site bar.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissements) – Coolest Place to Stay in Paris
Le Marais is a historic district located on Paris’ Right Bank. An excellent destination for art lovers, Le Marais is home to some of the finest art galleries and most interesting museums on the planet.
This neighborhood is also known for its vast array of lively bars, delicious restaurants, chic boutiques and LGTBQ traveller friendly establishments. Le Marais is one of the coolest places to stay in Paris because it offers such an interesting mix of fashion, fun, history and culture.
Things to See and Do in Le Marais
- Delve deep into the history of the city and its inhabitants at the Musee Carnavalet.
- Sample interesting drinks at Sherry Butt.
- Shop until you drop along the Rue des Francs Bourgeois.
- Sip cocktails at the Little Red Door.
- Visit the Eglise Saint Paul-Saint Louis, which dates back to the early-17th-century.
Small apartment in lively area | Best Airbnb in Le Marais
Relaxing after a day out in one of the coolest areas in Paris – this Airbnb makes it possible. The small apartment is just as cool as the neighborhood. Sandstone walls, exposed beams, and incredible interior design. You will love every second in this unique studio. The metro station is only 3 minutes away, in case you want to get around the city.
MIJE Fourcy Fauconnier Maubuisson | Best Hostel in Le Marais
This hostel is one of the best places in Paris to stay for culture lovers, hipsters, and foodies. Situated in Le Marais, this property has vibrant and eclectic restaurants, bars and shops at its doorstep. It offers comfortable beds, modern amenities, and a continental breakfast is included with each reservation.
Hotel Georgette | Best Hotel in Le Marais
Hotel Georgette is one of the best places in Paris to stay because of its great location in Le Marais with lots of dining, shopping, sightseeing and nightlife options nearby. This contemporary hotel offers 19 modern rooms with wireless internet and essential amenities.
Paris France Hotel | Best Hotel in Le Marais
Thanks to its spacious rooms and wonderful views, this is one of our favourite hotels in Paris. Set in the heart of the city, this hotel is close to popular tourist attractions, restaurants, shops and bars. Rooms come complete with private bathrooms and modern amenities, like cable channels and free wifi.
#5 Saint-Germain-des-Pres (6th Arrondissement) – Where to Stay in Paris for Families
Situated on Paris’ Left Bank, Saint-Germain-des-Pres is one of the classiest districts in the city. Brimming with history, culture, art and cuisine, this centrally located neighborhood is home to upscale art galleries, iconic museums, world-class restaurants and brand name designer boutiques. This arrondissement is popular with tourists, locals and ex-pats alike because it has so much to see, do, eat and experience.
Saint-Germain-des-Pres gets our vote for where to stay in Paris for families because there are so many interesting attractions and activities within walking distance. And with the Musee d’Orsay and the Eiffel Tower nearby, you and your family will be able to see all the top sights with relative ease.
Things to See and Do in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
- Dine on traditional French fare at La Becane A Gaston.
- See a wonderful collection at the Musee National Eugene Delacroix.
- Spend an afternoon people watching from a café on Boulevard Saint-Germain.
- Tour the incredible neo-classical Palais de Luxembourg.
- Visit the nearby Musee d’Orsay.
Hotel des Mines | Best Hotel in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
This charming hotel is ideally located in Paris. Set in the Latin Quarter, this property is a short walk from the Luxembourg Gardens and many of Paris’ top tourist attractions. This property is comprised of 50 bedrooms with bathrooms, private toilets, satellite TV and air conditioning.
Hotel Louison | Best Hotel in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
Located in Saint-Germain-des-Pres, this hotel is conveniently situated for exploring Paris. It boasts elegant rooms with air conditioning, flat-screen TVs and wireless internet. Guests can also enjoy a filling breakfast buffet each morning.
Odeon Hotel Paris | Best Hotel in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
The Odeon Hotel Paris provides comfortable accommodation at the heart of the city. It is within walking distance of the Notre Dame Cathedral and is surrounded by shops, cafes, restaurants and bakeries. Rooms are spacious, well-equipped and perfect for families of all shapes and sizes.
Cosy family apartment | Best Airbnb in Saint-Germain-des-Pres
Visiting Paris with your family? No problem! This home is spacious enough to comfortably fit 4 people while everyone can still enjoy some privacy. It’s a large apartment (which is a rare find in this area) located in the best neighborhood of St-Germain-des-Pres. There are beautiful shops and cafes right around the corner, as well as connections to public transport options.
Cosy family apartment is one of our favourites in Paris but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Paris
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Paris and where to stay.
What To Pack For Paris
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance for Paris
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Paris
Paris is one of the most famous, beautiful and magical cities in the world. A visit to Paris should be on everybody’s travel hit list. It offers incredible art, rich history, diverse culture, and is home to some of the best restaurants on the planet. No matter you travel style or interests, it’s hard not to fall in love with the iconic City of Lights.
In this guide, we’ve looked at the best places to stay in Paris based on budget, interest and needs. If you’re still not sure which of Paris’ amazing neighborhoods is right for you, here is a recap of our favourite places.
Le Village Montmartre is our favourite hostel because it has a great location, awesome amenities and offers a delicious Parisian breakfast – all for a reasonable price!
Another excellent option is Hotel La Nouvelle Republique. Set in the Oberkampf neighborhood, this hotel offers spacious rooms with luxurious features.
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around Paris.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Paris.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in Paris instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in Paris to plan your trip.
- Planning out an itinerary for Paris is a great way to maximise your time.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for France.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
- Our in-depth Europe backpacking guide will help you plan the rest of your adventure.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
