A1 REAL ESTATE

The Guide to the arrondissements of Paris

Paris is Expensive.” This is what we always hear about the French capital. And it rings true with buying, selling, or even renting property in Paris as it does with everything else. You shouldn't take the real estate in Paris that lightly. It's necessary to consider the location of the property, specifically the arrondissement. 

The arrondissements refer to the administrative districts that make up Paris. The city has 20 overall, each containing various neighborhoods, establishments, tourist attractions, and more

Although they all belong to one city, we also have to note that the arrondissements are very different from each other. Some are more expensive than others. Some are more suitable for families and couples, while others are perfect for students, young professionals, and the like. 

From its culture, vibe, and environment to the shops, schools, and public transport, this guide will show you the most important elements of each arrondissement. This will help you get a good understanding of what that arrondissement is all about and what makes it distinct from all the others. 

We'll also talk about neighborhood life, how you can enjoy your time in these arrondissements, and the popular hotspots located in each one. Paris is rich in culture, history, and green spaces, after all. In many of these arrondissements, you'll discover great parks like the Tuileries Garden, Jardin du Luxembourg, Bois de Boulogne, Buttes de Chaumont, and more.

If you're in need of official housing, be it for corporate use or as a second home for when you're in Paris, we advise you to learn more about the Civil Code Lease in France. 

Are you looking for short-term accommodation in Paris that's between 1 to 10 months? You'll have to get a Moblity Lease to legally rent a place in the city. You’d do well to learn more about it. 

Once you know what kind of lease you need for your stay in Paris, it's time to pick a furnished luxury rental. For this, A1 Real Estate offers its services! Choose any from our exceptional selection of apartments, penthouses, mansions, and more!

1st Arrondissement of Paris

The 1st arrondissement is the heart of Paris. It's the French Capital's center and where it all takes shape. A historic district par excellence, it captures the imaginations of locals and tourists alike. From its world-famous museums and beautiful gardens. this district shines like no other!

The area's crowning jewel is the Louvre Museum. Known as one of, if not the most famous art gallery in the world, it houses some of the most iconic works of art. The “Mona Lisa” by Leonardo Da Vinci stands head and shoulders above all the others. It's safe to say that this is the most well-known work of art on the planet. And millions of people visit the Louvre just to see it.

There's also the Les Halles district to look forward to as well. From its former glory as the city's central fresh food market, it has now become one of the most dynamic commercial areas in Paris. This place offers a diversity of establishments where people can eat out, have a drink, or enjoy some shopping. You'll find countless stores here as well as a few theaters and cinemas nearby. 

2nd Arrondissement of Paris

Even though the 2nd arrondissement is the smallest district in Paris, there's still a lot to look forward to here. As the former home of the Paris Stock Exchange, it eventually became the historic home of many financial institutions. 

Paris' 2nd arrondissement boasts a lush neighborhood with complete facilities and bustling commercial areas. There's the popular and always busy shopping street, Rue Montorgueuil, for example. With its lively food market and unique specialty stores, people from the other arrondissements can't help but shop here. Rue Vivienne is also popular thanks to its eponymous shopping passage, Galeries Vivienne. Like Rue Montorgueuil, this place draws people in with its great shops, top-notch restaurants, and more. 

The Sentier neighborhood is also worth noting for its bustling boulevards filled with chic bistros, quirky boutiques, and charming cafes in Paris. It's also the home of Le Grand Rex, the famous Art Deco-style cinema, and the Rx Club, a hip nightclub where international DJs play all night. 

3rd Arrondissement of Paris

The 3rd arrondissement defines the eclectic nature of Paris with its many facets. From its historical spots to its modern museums, the area has carved out its own unique reputation in the city. 

Once known as the “Temple District” of the French capital, it used to house the Knights Templar, a religious military order from the 14th century. Since the order owned this land, the monarchy had barely any jurisdiction here and this allowed many artisans and craftsmen to set up shop in the area. Thus, even today, the 3rd arrondissement is a particularly artistic district

Compared to many others, the 3rd arrondissement is a popular tourist haven. Especially since the area offers many great museums. The most famous of them is Musée des Arts et Métiers, a gallery dedicated to industrial design. The Hôtel Salé, on the other hand, houses Musée National Picasso-Paris, which is devoted to one of the most revolutionary artists of all time, Pablo Picasso. And most importantly, there's the Musée de l'Histoire de France, home of the national archives. 

It's important to note that though the 3rd arrondissement is known as “Haut-Marais” (Northern Marais), it only has a small bit of the popular Le Marais district. For the most part, the neighborhood is in the 4th arrondissement. Nevertheless, there's still a good number of trendy restaurants, hip cafes, and chic boutiques in the 3rd arrondissement. As a result, it's also popular among tourists and locals alike.

4th Arrondissement of Paris

The 4th arrondissement of Paris is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious districts on the right bank. It's an extremely popular area for tourists and locals alike, filled with all sorts of exciting hotspots, awesome attractions, and a bevy of luxury homes. 

Though the 4th arrondissement is mostly known for the Le Marais neighborhood, there's more to the district than that. This area is also home to half of Île de la Cité and the entire Île Saint Louis. It's also the center of the city, marked by the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral in all its monumental Gothic glory. This famous church alone makes the 4th arrondissement a definite must-see, especially for those visiting Paris for the first time. 

As far as attractions go, you can't overlook the Centre Pompidou, home of the National Museum of Modern Art. The Maison de Victor Hugo, on the other hand, is the writer's former home and now serves as a museum dedicated to his legacy. And let's not forget about the Shoah Memorial, the museum that highlights Jewish history during the Second World War. These and more are what many people check out in the 4th arrondissement. 

5th Arrondissement of Paris

Home to the Latin Quarter, the 5th arrondissement is the center of youth in Paris. This is where you'll find many of the most prestigious universities in the city, as well as the students who go there to learn and study, to get ready to go out into the world. 

The area's academic nature goes all the way back to the Middle Ages, thanks in large part to the prestigious Sorbonne University, established here in 1275. From then on, most of the academics and intellectuals stayed in this district, eventually giving rise to other respected institutions that now make up the Latin Quarter. As a result, the 5th arrondissement is often referred to as the “Students' District.” 

6th Arrondissement of Paris

Your idealized view of Paris is probably thanks to the 6th arrondissement. Home to the affluent Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, this was where café society thrived back in the early 20th century. From literary figures and legendary artists to intellectuals that changed society, many of the Parisian elite would hang out in this district. And the area is still as dreamy as ever! 

Located on the Left Bank of the Seine River, the 6th arrondissement is the quintessential Parisian district. Take Boulevard Saint-Michel, for example. Lined with many first-class restaurants and top-notch hotspots, this street is part of the reason why Paris is renowned as the "Food Capital of The World." If there's ever a place where taking a foodie tour is an absolute must, it's this one!

Then there's the aforementioned Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of the most popular neighborhoods in Paris. With its old-world charms yet trendy hotspots, the area maintains a great balance between the old and the new. For the former, don't miss your chance to dine in the historic literary cafes, Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots. These centuries-old hotspots once served the likes of Ernst Hemingway, Gertrude Stein, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Salvador Dali, Pablo Picasso, and more. 

7th Arrondissement of Paris

Out of all the districts in Paris, the 7th arrondissement is perhaps the most famous and most beloved. And it's thanks to one world-famous monument, the Eiffel Tower

Standing proudly as the symbol of Paris and the rest of France, this iconic monument is the centerpiece of the 7th arrondissement. It's the very reason why so many tourists flock to the French capital in the first place. And paired with the scenic Champ de Mars park right beside it, the entire area becomes one big tourist haven. It's as if no visit to Paris is complete without going here! 

Though let's not forget the other noteworthy attractions in the 7th arrondissement too. There's Musée d'Orsay, for example, a former Beaux-Arts railway station turned art museum. It is home to countless French art dating from 1848 to 1914. The Les Invalides complex is also a must-see with its stately grandeur and old-world appeal. And if you want a quieter time in the often-busy area, escape to the banks of the Seine River

8th Arrondissement of Paris

Home to the iconic Champs Elysées, the 8th arrondissement is one of the most central districts of Paris. This is the most famous avenue in the French capital, so it makes sense that the area surrounding it would be among the most affluent in the city.

Luxury is the name of the game in the 8th arrondissements. Rue Saint-Honoré, for example, is a world-famous shopping street that offers the biggest fashion brands in the world. The home of haute couture, this is one of the places that establish Paris as the fashion capital of the world. Avenue George V and Avenue Montaigne are also well-known among fashion lovers and luxury connoisseurs. These are the best streets to get the finer things in life. 

As far as iconic landmarks are concerned, no one can miss the Arc de Triomphe. Though it's technically located in two other arrondissements, it's most famously part of the 8th thanks to the Champs Elysées. It's also on this avenue where important holidays are celebrated. There's the laying down of the wreath on Bastille Day and the glorious fireworks display on New Year's Eve, to name a few. 

9th Arrondissement of Paris

If Paris was a newspaper, the 9th arrondissement will definitely be the lifestyle section. From theaters to shopping districts and even a few art galleries in between, the area is home to a myriad of leisure hotspots. This is where families go to spend some bonding time, couples go on dates, and friends just want to hang out. 

Perhaps the most famous attraction is the Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera. Once the toast of Parisian high society, Gaston Leroux's 1910 novel, “The Phantom of The Opera,” as well as Andre Lloyd Webber's subsequent Broadway musical, helped it reach icon status. Today, it's become one of the most popular tourist spots in the city, almost rivaling the likes of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe.

Then there's the shopping! If the 8th arrondissement, where Rue Saint-Honoré is located, is home to haute couture, the 9th arrondissement is a shopaholic's dream. Right off the bat, you'll find two of the city's most famous and most prestigious department stores here: Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann. They offer the most luxurious labels, the highest-quality pieces, and the most expensive items. Moreover, Blanche-Trinité and Blanche-Pigalle districts also offer smaller-scale but just as chic boutiques, shops, and markets. You'd do well to check them out too! 

10th Arrondissement of Paris

If you thought that Paris was always about gloss and glamour, think again. Though the French capital is the country's lap of luxury in many ways, it's also home to many different kinds of people. Namely, the working class. And you'll find them in the quaint and quite idyllic 10th arrondissement. 

Compared to the other districts, the 10th arrondissement doesn't have any famous tourist spots to offer. For some, that's the best thing about it. Though you might not see any iconic sights in this district, you'll get to enjoy some peace and quiet instead. Think family-friendly communities with kids playing around and humble mom-and-pop stores lining the streets. Not to mention a few lively areas where university students and young professionals hang out when they're on break or after school/work. They frequent the chic bistros and cafes in Paris. 
11th Arrondissement of Paris

The 11th arrondissement of Paris is perhaps the hippest, trendiest, and liveliest of all the districts. This is where the young and wreckless party all night long, while the hipsters hang out in chill cafes and your professionals run to the nearest bars right after work. But as with every other part of the city, this place also has different sides to it. 

The hottest spot in all of the 11th arrondissement is Rue Oberkampf. With its young, cosmopolitan atmosphere, this street is home to countless bars, bistros, nightclubs, and cafes in Paris. This is where all the partygoers play come nightfall and they don't stop until the early hours of the next day! 

Rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud, on the other hand, is a foodie's haven. Filled with all sorts of restaurants that serve all kinds of cuisines, this is the adventurous side of the French capital's culinary scene. And in between are fascinating boutiques and novelty shops where you'll find fairly interesting stuff too!

12th Arrondissement of Paris

The 12th arrondissement is the family-friendly district of Paris. With lots of green spaces and prominent schools here, this is one of the best areas for families to settle down in. Sometimes, you almost couldn't believe that this place is still part of the bustling metropolis. 

In many ways, the 12th arrondissement is the closest thing to a suburb in Paris. The Picpus and Bel-Air neighborhoods are some of the most suitable for families with young kids. Picpus, for example, is home to many green spaces, supermarkets, and low-key cafes in Paris. The quiet vibe is perfect for families who want to escape the more urban parts of the city. Bel-Air, on the other hand, is for the active and always on the go. From cycle paths to ponds and lakes for boating, the liveliness here is a result of its sporty atmosphere. 

13th Arrondissement of Paris

Home to the city's Asian Quarter, the 13th arrondissement upholds the diversity in Paris. And while the area is dominated by Asian communities, many people from different parts of the world have also settled down here. 

Perhaps the most famous spot in the 13th arrondissement is Chinatown. Similar to many districts of its kind in other major cities around the world, Chinatown offers a slice of the East within these European halls. From authentic delicacies to interesting gadgets, there's always something new to discover here. Not to mention some flavorful food to enjoy as well! 

You'll also find the Paris Rive Gauche neighborhood in this arrondissement. A modern residential area where people of different incomes, social standings, and more live in harmony, it's perhaps the most modern part of the French capital. Its contemporary architecture alone already makes it look like it's a separate town altogether. They present a beautiful and fascinating contrast to the more popular Haussmann buildings and Renaissance or Baroque structures of Paris.

14th Arrondissement of Paris

Located on the left bank of the Seine River, the 14th arrondissement of Paris offers the best of both worlds. The area is lively enough that you can still feel the urban energy that the French capital is known for. At the same time, there are many parts of the district that are a lot quieter, more peaceful, and largely residential. With how the arrondissement maintains a healthy balance of the two, you can already tell that this place is worth checking out. 

Most notably, the 14th arrondissement is home to the Montparnasse district, one of the central and most popular neighborhoods in Paris. It's here where you'll find a few famous attractions, such as the Montparnasse Tower and the Paris Catacombs. The latter is especially famous among the more thrill-seeking tourists who'd rather go to more eerie places than iconic spots. The underground maze spans 300 kilometers throughout the city, all of which are lined with the remains of approximately six million people. The Montparnasse Tower, on the other hand, is a 210-meter office skyscraper with a nice observation deck. From here, you get to enjoy such amazing views of Paris.  

15th Arrondissement of Paris

Home to over 240,000 residents, the 15th arrondissement is the main residential district of Paris. The area stretches from the Eiffel Tower to the southern border of Paris, comprising luxury apartments, penthouses, close-knit communities, and the like. If you want to move to the French capital with your family, this is the best place for you to settle down. 

What makes the 15th arrondissement such a family-friendly place? For one thing, it's home to a good number of green spaces. There's Jardin Atlantique, Parc André Citroën, Parc Georges Brassens, and even Promenade de la Petite Ceinture, a former railway track-turned-pedestrian path. These aren't the biggest nor the most popular parks in Paris, sure, but they're good enough for a fun day under the sun. You'll see many locals hanging out here in their free time, enjoying picnics, playing games, kids running around, and more. 

16th Arrondissement of Paris

Affluence defines the 16th arrondissement of Paris. It may not be as glamorous as the Champs-Élysées or as trendy as Le Marais but this part of the city is still high-class. It's where old money lives in Paris, the elite whose fortunes have stood the test of time. With their refined exclusivity and understated elegance, they live the haute lifestyle at its finest.  

The Passy neighborhood dominates the 16th arrondissement of Paris. A fairly quiet part of the city, it's the closest thing the French capital has to a suburban area. Grand mansions, gorgeous penthouses, and lavish apartments make up the district, providing homes to the rich and famous who want to live fairly normal and somewhat discreet lives in Paris. They're all housed in classic architecture and pre-war buildings, preserving the historic beauty of the city while allowing for contemporary luxurious lifestyles. 

Most notably, the 16th arrondissement is also where many foreign embassies are located. Within these stately halls, ambassadors and diplomats get to live in splendor as they fulfill their various obligations and responsibilities to their respective countries. And because of these important institutions, the area rose to even greater prominence over the years. 

17th Arrondissement of Paris

Local life flourishes in the 17th arrondissement of Paris. With its lively bars, chic bistros, and charming cafes, it's one of the hippest districts in the city. A place where young locals hang out and have fun after hours. A hub where creatives do their thing and show it off to the rest of the world. Not to mention a haven for bohemians to live unconventionally, challenge societal norms, and make the French capital even more colorful. 

The district is home to a few Parisian neighborhoods. There's Batignolles, Ternes, and Épinettes. Among the three, Batignolles is the most prominent. It's become a fairly popular area for locals, thanks in large part to Square des Batignolles, a serene park where the grass is green, the trees are tall, and the air is fresh. It's a breathtaking oasis of botanical bliss in the middle of one of the livelier parts of the city. 

Perhaps the busiest place in the 17th arrondissement is Place de Clichy. This public square also serves as the intersection leading to various buzzing streets that are fairly popular. If you want to see where all the action is, you'd do well to start from here. Fortunately, the plaza has its own metro station too. 

18th Arrondissement of Paris

You can say that there are two sides to the 18th arrondissement of Paris. And they just so happen to be the neighborhoods that make up the area. On one side, there's Montmartre, a fairly trendy, bohemian hub that's also family-friendly in many ways. Perched on a hill, it's an enchanting district where young people hang out, families spend time with each other, and history is preserved for all to see. And then there's the Pigalle Quarter, the more “adult” side of the arrondissement and of the city altogether. Home to the red-light district of Paris, this is where the fun is had once night falls. 

Perhaps the crowning jewel of the 18th arrondissement and of Montmartre is the stunning Sacré-Cœur. Perched atop Butte Montmartre, this architectural marvel, with its standout Roman-Byzantine style, is one of the most famous churches in the city. Its fame almost equals that of the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre Dame. And for the locals in the area, the slopes of the hill, Square Louise Michel, make for a great place to hang out, relax, and spend time under the sun. 

19th Arrondissement of Paris

The 19th arrondissement feels unlike any of the other districts in Paris. Since it's known as the area of urban regeneration, the place feels a lot newer compared to the other parts of the city. This isn't to say that the arrondissement has lost its history nor does it even look too modern, but the energy here truly projects the “here and now.” 

You'll see the district's contemporary edge when you check out Parc de la Villette, the third-largest park in all of Paris. Situated along the banks of Canal de l'Ourcq, this place looks and feels modern. Especially La Géode, the geodesic dome that's practically the symbol of the park. Part of Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie (City of Science and Industry), a science museum located within the park grounds. It's just one of many similar attractions you'll find here. And the massive scope of the park also makes it a frequent venue for all sorts of festivals. 

20th Arrondissement of Paris

The 20th arrondissement is another of the French capital's bohemian quarters. Formerly the city's industrial heartland, it now bursts with youthful energy and that signature Parisian joie de vivre! There aren't exactly any world-famous monuments and landmarks located here, but tourists who are lucky enough to stumble upon this district will discover a unique and idyllic side to Paris. 

The area boasts a whole host of different neighborhoods, each more charming than the next. There's the Belleville district, for example, which houses part of the city's Asian quarter. As such, many of the foodie hotspots here serve such delicious Eastern cuisine. Any foodie would do well to check this place out! The neighborhood is also home to Parc de la Belleville, a beautiful green space perched atop a hill. With its lush greeneries and well-curated gardens, the park offers a serene escape from the bustling metropolis. The views up here are pretty spectacular too! 

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