1. Le Marais (3rd & 4th Arrondissements)
Le Marais is a historic district known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries and thriving LGBTQ+ scene. A blend of old-world charm and modern chic, the area’s winding streets are lined with centuries-old mansions that have been transformed into stylish shops and apartments. Step into the lively atmosphere of Place des Vosges, one of Paris’ most beautiful squares, or explore the many exhibitions at the Centre Pompidou.- Cost of living: High
- Local amenities: Picasso Museum, Musée Carnavalet and Marché des Enfants Rouges
- Safety score: Moderate
- Transportation: Metro lines 1 and 11, and several bus lines
| Insider tip: For a quieter atmosphere, look for houses in the northern part of Le Marais. For a vivacious lifestyle, the south side is the way to go. |
2. Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th Arrondissement)
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is renowned for its literary and artistic heritage. This elegant district is home to many charming cafes, world-class bookstores and high-end boutiques. Stroll along the Boulevard Saint-Germain, admire the stunning architecture of the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or get lost in the pages of a book at Shakespeare and Company.- Cost of living: High
- Local amenities: Jardin du Luxembourg and Musée du Luxembourg, Café de Flore
- Safety score: Moderate
- Transportation: Metro lines 4 and 10, and several bus lines
3. Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)
The Latin Quarter is steeped in academic tradition and bohemian culture. This district is home to the prestigious Sorbonne University and many charming bookstores and cafes. Explore the narrow streets as you admire the Gothic architecture of the Sorbonne or relax by the serene waters of the Seine River.- Cost of living: High
- Local amenities: Sainte-Chapelle, Notre-Dame Cathedral and Panthéon
- Safety score: Moderate
- Transportation: Metro lines 7 and 10, and several bus lines
4. Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)
The hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre is renowned for its artistic heritage, bohemian atmosphere and stunning views of Paris. This district is home to the iconic Sacré-Coeur Basilica, a secret vineyard and winding cobblestone streets. Stroll through the Place du Tertre, admire local artists' works and soak up this picturesque neighborhood's romantic ambiance. This is one of the best Paris neighborhoods for those with a penchant for the arts and classic Parisian feel.- Cost of living: High
- Local amenities: Montmartre Cemetery, Moulin Rouge, Musée de Montmartre
- Safety score: Moderate
- Transportation: Funicular railway and Metro line 2
| Insider tip: For a unique Parisian experience, take a painting class in the heart of Montmartre. You'll learn techniques from local artists and capture the essence of this charming neighborhood. |
5. Canal Saint-Martin (10th Arrondissement)
Canal Saint-Martin is a trendy neighborhood known for its beautiful canal, vibrant street art, lively bars and restaurants. You’ll find a laid-back atmosphere and a unique blend of hip urban culture and natural beauty. Rent a boat, stroll along the canal or relax at one of the many cafes and bars lining its banks. If you’re looking for the more easygoing areas of Paris, Canal Saint-Martin won’t disappoint.- Cost of living: High
- Local amenities: Belleville Park, Parc de la Villette and Canal de l'Ourcq
- Safety score: Moderate
- Transportation: Metro lines 2, 5 and 7, and several bus lines
6. Passy (16th Arrondissement)
Passy is an affluent neighborhood known for its elegant architecture, upscale boutiques and beautiful parks. You’ll find a tranquil and sophisticated lifestyle here, with easy access to the Bois de Boulogne and the Seine River. Enjoy walking through the picturesque streets, indulge in high-end shopping or relax in one of the neighborhood’s many green spaces.- Cost of living: Very high
- Local amenities: Eiffel Tower, Trocadéro Palace and Musée du Quai Branly
- Safety score: High
- Transportation: Metro lines 6 and 9, and several bus lines
| Insider tip: To escape the hustle and bustle, take a leisurely stroll through the Bois de Boulogne, one of the city’s largest parks. |
7. Madeleine (8th Arrondissement)
Madeleine is an upscale neighborhood known for its high-end shops, fine-dining restaurants and beautiful architecture. If you’re looking for glamor, this is the neighborhood for you. This chic district is home to the iconic Church of the Madeleine and offers easy access to the Champs-Élysées and the Louvre Museum. If you’ve ever wanted to own abroad, this is a great location to consider.- Cost of living: Very high
- Local amenities: Place de la Concorde, Jardin des Tuileries and Palais Garnier
- Safety score: High
- Transportation: Metro lines 8, 12 and 14, and several bus lines
8. Trocadéro (16th Arrondissement)
Trocadéro is one of the more prestigious neighborhoods of Paris, and it is known for its stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, elegant palaces and beautiful gardens. This district offers a sophisticated lifestyle, with easy access to the Seine River and the Bois de Boulogne. Explore the Palais de Chaillot or take in the views from the Trocadéro Gardens.- Cost of living: Very high
- Local amenities: Musée du Quai Branly, Pont de l'Alma and Palais de Tokyo
- Safety score: High
- Transportation: Metro lines 6 and 9, and several bus lines
| Insider tip: For a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower, head to the Trocadéro gardens at sunset, when the golden hour illuminates the iconic landmark. |
9. Louvre/Tuileries (1st Arrondissement)
Located in the heart of Paris, the Louvre/Tuileries is renowned for its world-class museums and historic landmarks. This ritzy district offers a sophisticated lifestyle with easy access to the Seine River and the Palais Royal. Admire the stunning architecture of the Louvre Museum, stroll through the Tuileries Gardens or shop at the exclusive boutiques on Rue de Rivoli in this quintessential French neighborhood.- Cost of living: Very high
- Local amenities: Place de la Concorde, Pont Neuf and Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel
- Safety score: High
- Transportation: Metro lines 1 and 7, and several bus lines
10. Bastille (11th Arrondissement)
The vibrant Bastille neighborhood is known for trendy bars, fashionable cafes and nightlife, along with a range of boutiques and galleries. Some have even dubbed it one of the trendiest districts in Paris, so if you’re looking for a hip place to live, this dynamic neighborhood is for you. Explore the picturesque Place de la Bastille, visit the historic Bastille Square or simply soak up the lively atmosphere of the neighborhood's many cafes and bars.- Cost of living: High
- Local amenities: Opéra Bastille, Viaduc des Arts and Père Lachaise Cemetery
- Safety score: Moderate
- Transportation: Metro lines 1, 5, 8 and 9, and several bus lines
11. Bercy (12th Arrondissement)
Bercy is a modern neighborhood known for its contemporary architecture, green spaces and cultural venues. This up-and-coming district offers easy access to the Seine River and Bois de Vincennes. Explore the many shops and restaurants, relax in the peaceful parks or catch a show at the Accor Arena.- Cost of living: High
- Local amenities: Bibliothèque François Mitterrand, Parc de Bercy, Cité de la Mode et du Design
- Safety score: High
- Transportation: Metro lines 14 and 6, and several bus lines
| Insider tip: For a unique cultural experience, visit the Cité de la Mode et du Design, a contemporary art and fashion center located on the banks of the Seine River. |
