Neighborhoods to live in Paris? Well that’s a little bit general question to be answered. Because all areas of Paris have something unique to offer. Anyways, I will try to answer this question keeping the specific aspects in mind.
Paris have distributed like spiral ring across Seine River. First, you should be aware that Paris has 20 arrondissements that are organized in a snail-like formation: the 1st arrondissement is the center of the city, and others are wound around it in a spiral shape.
The very center of Paris comprises arrondissements 1 to 9, whilst 10 to 20 form the second ring.
The second thing to bear in mind in order to “understand” Paris better is the Seine! The river cuts the city in two, creating a natural border between the quiet Left Bank (south) and the more dynamic Right Bank (north).
Therefore, Neighborhoods in paris lie across Seine!
Paris is a whole network of neighborhoods spread out across both banks of the Seine. Hence, the 20 districts make up the City of Light. Each bank and each arrondissement in Paris has its own set of characteristics.
Paris may change, but in my melancholy mood
Nothing has budged! New palaces, blocks, scaffoldings,
Old neighbourhoods, are allegorical for me,
And my dear memories are heavier than stone.
-Charles Baudelaire
I realize that it’s a challenge for people, either families or students, to find a suitable district given the multitude of neighborhoods, both in terms of atmosphere and quality of life. Finding your way through Paris can be challenging as in certain months this city is inundated with tourists.
This is why choosing the best neighborhood to live in Paris is not a walk in the park.
Each area in French capital provides a unique experience. So, while deciding the best neighborhood to stay in Paris, one of the factors you really need to consider is that what type of cultural element are you interested to soak in.
Why?
Because every neighborhood has its own specialty; some provide the best gastronomic experience, whereas others have mastered the art of French fashion, etc.
I have answered some most asked basic questions as well. Here is everything that you need to know before choosing any area to live in Paris.
Which arrondissement is best to stay in Paris with kids?
5th arrondissement
This area is perfect to stay in Paris if you are accompanied by children. In addition, this Neighborhood is very lively if you are looking for a family friendly area to live in French capital.
It is one of the oldest district of Paris and the best thing is, it is close to all major attractions in Paris. This area is located in Latin Quarter and it is famous for educational institutes.
6th arrondissement
Another best area to live in Paris along with kids is 6th arrondissement. Again, this neighborhood is also known for its prestigious educational institute and café culture. Its history, architecture and central location make it best option to stay in this neighborhood with kids.
Besides, this arrondissement also houses most beautiful districts of Paris such as Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Luxembourg. If you find accommodation in this neighborhood, you should not miss these two districts of Paris for sure.
On the other hand, it is richest district of France with many expensive national and international shopping spots. Otherwise, it is a great area to live in Paris.
Montmartre
Here is the third option for you. Montmartre, with its artistic history and famous white-domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, stands in 18th arrondissement in Paris. It has been a hub of art and intellect for many years. The plus point of this district is metro lines. You can easily find metro stations on walking distance.
What neighborhood of Paris is best to live for quiet holidays?
Oh man, this is the most important question, especially if you are coming from NYC and hate the ever-bustling Times Square. Of course, you want to spend holidays in less crowded and less touristic area.
Paris has the most sophisticated metro system in the world and you will find metro station on walking distance no matter where you stay. In addition, all beautiful sites of the French capital are flung in the city across many areas. Hence, you would need metro in any case.
So, if you do not want to live in the central districts of Paris it’s totally fine. I understand that you are on vacation and want to relax and feel the touristic vibes as well. That is why, I would recommend you eighth and ninth arrondissements.
Both are central locations in terms of restaurants, transportation, attractions and overall ambiance.
Although 1st arrondissement is also a great option and central location in Paris, it is expensive. But again, there are pros such as easy access to main attractions in Paris like Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and Louvre.
Ps. if you want to escape the huddle of people, then I suggest you to avoid staying on Champs-Elysees. It is the Times Square of Paris with overpriced eateries and lodgings. No doubt, its beauty speaks volumes making it worth visiting.
Best districts to live in Paris for students
Finding accommodation in Paris can be a bothersome task for many. If you are a student and looking a area to live for yourself then it is double trouble, definitely. Why?
That’s an easy question to answer. There are budget limitations and then at the same time quality of life cannot be compromised. However, I have dig into this matter and I have come up with two perfect options for students.
Latin Quarter (5th arrondissement)
This district is the hub of many renowned educational institutes. This neighborhood of Paris offers many advantages. Most importantly, public transportation is a big plus for students living in this area of Paris. Metro stations are on walking distance from most of the schools and colleges.
Besides, there are many green spaces in this area where students can relax and study between the classes. Luxembourg gardens allow students to have a peaceful morning or evening walk. In addition, there are cafes, bookstores, bars and events to chill on the weekends.
There is only one downside of this area and that is; pricy rentals either furnished or not furnished.
Republique- Bastille district (11th Arrondissement)
Located between the trendy Marais and vibrant Saint Martin, this district makes a perfect option for students to live in Paris. Moreover, this neighborhood provides great nightlife with its vibrant bars and cafes.
Most importantly, it is less expensive. So, students can easily afford an apartment in this area of Paris.
Ps. Flat-sharing is a great option for students to live in Paris, that too without breaking the bank.
Best area to live in Paris for Families
If you are looking for best area to live in Paris for families then continue reading this article. For smaller families, 18th and 20th Arrondissements are perfect areas to live in Paris.
In addition, the transportation, culture diversity and gardens make it a perfect area for families. These areas are safe for families as well.
Where do most Americans live in Paris?
Paris is home to many Americans as many Americans shift to Paris annually including students, businesspersons and immigrants. On top of it, annually 2.5M American tourists come to Paris. There are over 2000 American companies operating in Paris.
That means a lot of Americans in Paris. Fun fact: Emily was also in Paris for business reasons (I am talking about Emily in Paris season). Hence, you must be looking for areas to live in Paris where most Americans live. Let me tell you categorically.
- High class American Expats like US embassy officials and media persons mostly live in Le Vesinet. Le Vesinet is a part of suburbs of western Paris. It is located in Saint-Germain-en-Laye neighborhood.
- US bankers or lawyers live in 7th Arrondissement.
- Permanent American immigrants, who most likely move to Paris because of their French spouse, live in Marais.
- American students mostly live in 5th Arrondissement.
Which neighborhood in Paris is best for property?
19th arrondissement is best for cheap property in Paris.
Which neighborhood in Paris is best for food?
11th arrondissement offers a range of cuisines from French, Mexican, Japanese, Spanish to Vietnamese. If you are foodie, then you should definitely keep this neighborhood in mind while renting an apartment.
With that being said, here are the areas of Paris which are great to live.
Overall 10 best neighborhood to live in Paris
Passy (16th arrondissement)
This area is especially famous for offering Haussman style apartments. Moreover, the streets of Passy are safe and not filled with noise, so you can stay comfortably. This area also has a lot of greenery that allows you to live a healthy life.
Another great fact about this neighborhood is that people from all over the world reside here, so it is a very culturally diverse area. There are also great international schools that provide quality education.
However, while there are a lot of benefits, this area is extremely expensive so all the luxuries come at a price. Having said that, if safety and convenience are your two main concerns while choosing a neighborhood, then you should definitely pay this area a visit.
Latin Quarter (5th Arrondissement)
This area has narrow streets but is very lively. It is filled with many cafes as well so it has a great warm and welcoming environment. This area takes you back in history with its traditional architecture.
However, the neighborhood is quite bustling and you will always find people on the street. There are also many clubs and restaurants in this neighborhood. So, if you are an extrovert outgoing person, you will love this area as it has a lot of public spaces to offer.
Quartier du Gros-Caillou (7th arrondissement)
This neighborhood is one of its kind. It has a lot of famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and other various popular museums, etc. However, not only this area is ideal for the tourists but for the residents as well.
It provides a great community life as same families have been living over there for decades. However, because it is a famous area, it is also quite expensive. However, if money is not a major issue for you then you should really consider this area as it also has great schools and parks.
Champs-Élysées (8th Arrondissement)
This area has a lot of hangout spots as it cinemas, coffee shops, and even restaurants. It also offers fun nightlife. Therefore, if you are a fun-loving person, this will be a perfect area in Paris to live for you. This has a lot of cultural attraction points and provides convince and safety.
Moreover, this area is famous for providing high-quality schools and parks. You can also have access to public transport easily. Moreover, if you are a cheese lover then we have great news for me as it has great fromageries. However, this area in Paris is a bit expensive and that is the only downside.
Batignolles-Monceau (17th Arrondissement)
What makes this area unique and popular is the fact it has something for everyone. Regardless of which socio-economic, ethnic, or racial background you belong to, you will easily fit in over here. Moreover, it is affordable so you can live comfortably without worrying about expenses.
It also offers a lot of bilingual schools so your kids would never feel like an outsider, in case you are a foreigner. It also has great shopping spots and the streets are spacious so you can roam around easily.
Le Marais (4th Arrondissement)
What makes this area ideal is the fact that you can easily walk to different shops and cafes as they are near the apartments and houses. This neighborhood is also near River Seine and you can easily go to Louvre. This area still has its historic streets that are narrow and take you right back into history.
Thus, this area brings its medieval charm that makes it unique. However, the area has a lot of modern architecture as well and a lot of great cultural sights.
Bastille (11th Arrondissement)
If you are specifically looking for a good, affordable area to live in Paris, you should try out this neighborhood. Bastille area provides a perfect balance of modern and traditional housing structures.
It has bakeries and shops a couple of minutes away from apartments and houses so you can easily do grocery shopping. Moreover, you will find all sorts of shops over here from spices to modern supermarkets. Another great fact about this area is that it has a great community.
Butte-Montmartre (18th Arrondissement)
This area is known for its culture and is considered the heart of the city of Lights. If you are into bohemian culture then Montmartre will be ideal for you. This area was extremely famous in the 19th century as many famous artists, including Van Gogh, used to live there.
Even today, it is the home to many creative people. This area is also filled with a lot of tourists, so it provides great cultural diversity. However, if you are a creative person then you should definitely visit this area.
Montparnasse (14th and 15th Arrondissement)
This area is the most modern neighborhood of Paris. If you are specifically looking for modern apartments, you should check this neighborhood out. Despite providing such a luxurious lifestyle, this area is not expensive and provides an affordable lifestyle.
It also has a number of great restaurants so if you are a foodie, you will love this area to live in Paris. Moreover, one of its best areas in Paris to stay is Niepce Paris Hotel.
Belleville (10th, 11th, 19th, and 20th Arrondissements)
This area provides great cultural diversity. The community is mainly immigrants, so if you are a foreigner you will not feel like an outsider. It provides affordable living spaces and on top of this, it offers great ethnic food.
If you are on a budget and looking for not so expensive area to stay, then you should visit Les Piaules as it a hotel that is affordable, and provide comfortable rooms.
This article showcases how there are many great neighborhoods in Paris to live in which some are affordable and provide a comfortable lifestyle whereas some are expensive and allow you to live a luxurious life. Each neighborhood has its own unique characteristic; however, there is always something for everyone in Paris
If you liked reading this article, please let us know in the comment section.
great tips
Thank you.