20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)

Arrondissements in Paris? If you are planning a trip to Paris, chances are that you have come across the term ‘arrondissement’. But what exactly are these Parisian districts, and which ones should you keep an eye on?

With a total of 20 arrondissements in Paris, I understand how it can get perplexing—not only in terms of getting your bearings but also when it comes to finding the best arrondissement to stay in Paris.

But don’t worry because, in this article, I’ll give you an overview of the 20 arrondissements in Paris. I’ll explain in quick words what each arrondissement is about, and which highlights you can expect. I will also add a few of my Paris insider tips, so you can notch up your stay.

Also interesting:

• The best Arrondissement to stay in Paris (Top 3 + Hotel Tips)
• Paris in 4 days – the complete guide!
• 98+ Exciting Hidden Gems: non-touristy things to do in Paris

What is an Arrondissement in Paris?

The arrondissements in Paris? Think of them as the city’s neighborhoods. Paris boasts 20 of these, and each one is split into 4 smaller sections called quarters.

The 1st Arrondissement sits right at the heart of Paris, while the other 19 fan out around it in a snail-shell pattern, going clockwise.

You might also come across ‘rive gauche‘ and ‘rive droite‘ when exploring Paris. It’s a bit of a side note, but worth mentioning for a full picture.

Rive Gauche and Rive Droite

‘Rive gauche’ refers to the southern part of Paris on the left side of the Seine (yep, ‘gauche’ means left). On the flip side, ‘rive droite’ is on the right side of the Seine.

A little hack for you: Check the last two digits of a postal code to figure out its arrondissement. Like, 75014? That’s the 14th Arrondissement.

If you roam through Paris and wonder in which arrondissement you currently are, check the street name plates: the number on top indicates the arrondissement.

Every Arrondissement in Paris acts like its own little city, administration-wise. So, each one’s got its own town hall, mayor, city council, police station—you get the picture. Except the 1st to 4th arrondissements. They have teamed up and have been rolling as the ‘Paris Centre’ since 2020.

Still, all the Parisian arrondissements all fall under the big umbrella of Paris’s mayor, Anne Hidalgo. She’s based out of the grand Paris City Hall, the Hôtel-de-Ville.

Heads up! It’s easy to mix things up.

When we chat about places in Paris like Montmartre, the Latin Quarter, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or the Marais, we’re actually talking about old-school neighborhoods, not arrondissements. These places have been around way before Arrondissements even became a thing in Paris.

Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?

Planning a trip to Paris and wondering where to stay? Each Arrondissement has its special touch, with both upsides and downsides.

Your choice might depend on your plans. Traveling with family? Want to be close to the buzz? Or perhaps you’re searching for a more local Parisian experience away from tourist spots?

In this article, I’ll guide you through the highlights of each arrondissement and what sets each one apart.

Looking for a quick rundown on where to stay in Paris? Here’s my take:

For families: Try the 17th or 15th Arrondissement if you’re after something quieter, but the 6th is also great.

Party animals? Head to the 2nd, 5th, or 10th Arrondissement.

If sightseeing’s your thing, stick to the 1st – 9th.

Away from the crowds? Take a look at the 11th – 20th Arrondissement.

On a tight budget? The 19th or 20th is your best bet.

The 20 Neighbourhoods of Paris: Arrondissement Guide

Okay, let’s dive in. Here’s a snapshot of what each of the 20 Parisian Arrondissements offers, along with some must-see & Insider tips for each district.

1st Arrondissement of Paris (Louvre)

The 1st Arrondissement is right in the heart of Paris, and it’s pretty much a must-visit that you cannot miss. It’s a hotspot for sightseeing, with the standout being the iconic Louvre. This massive museum occupies a large part of the 1st.

There’s also a variety of upscale restaurants and shops, particularly around Place Vendôme and Rue St.Honoré. Highlights to check out:

• The Louvre, of course
• Tuileries Garden
• Palais Royal and the unique Buren Columns
• Shopping at Les Halles
• The stunning Sainte-Chapelle
• The Pont-Neuf Bridge

Tip: Begin at the Louvre Pyramid and take a leisurely walk down Rue Rivoli, heading towards the Arc de Triomphe. The stretch from the Louvre to the Arc de Triomphe, and then further to La Defense is called the Axe Historique. It’s a scenic route.

For excellent coffee in the 1st Arrondissement, grab a cup at Kitsuné. It’s a Japanese French Coffee and Tea Shop owned by one of the founding members of the Electro Duo Daft Punk.

And if you’re keen on Brunch, head over to Baguett’ Café, you might have to queue a bit.

2nd Arrondissement of Paris(Bourse)

The 2nd Arrondissement in Paris is pretty compact, but it’s packed with charm. Think classic Hausmann buildings and lovely old passages. If you’re in the mood for some authentic Japanese food, there’s a nice little quarter just for that.

Head to Rue Sainte-Anne to get some of the most delicious Ramen in Paris. Definitely a spot for some tasty meals.

And if you’re into shopping, there are cool boutiques and deli shops sprinkled around, plus some decent bars.

Some spots to check out:

• The Covered Passages: Galerie Vivienne, Passage des Princes, and Passage Choiseul to name a few. (refer to my guide of the passages to know where to find them)
• For good eats, especially Japanese, Rue Sainte-Anne
• For local vibes and some outstanding food options, Rue Montorgueil is a good choice

A suggestion: Wander through the Parisian passages (here’s a handy map). If you need a snack, step by Aki Boulanger, a French-Japanese bakery, with the most mouthwatering Melon Bread.

And if you’re up for some boutique browsing, the stretch between the Étienne-Marcel and Sentier metro stations is worth a visit.

Got a sweet tooth? Try Bone Shaker for donuts.

3rd Arrondissement (Temple)

Jumping over to the 3rd Arrondissement, you’re stepping into the historic heart of Paris. Part of this area forms the Marais, with roots going way back to the Middle Ages. This place used to be an exclusive spot for the aristocrats before the French Revolution, so you’re going to see some pretty grand city palaces.

A bunch of these have been transformed into museums, so if you’re a museum buff, you’re in for a treat. Not to mention, there’s no shortage of quirky restaurants, bars, and boutiques.

Things to see:

• Musée Carnavalet (It’s a free museum all about Paris history)
• Picasso Museum
• Marché des Enfants Rouge

Just saying: After wandering around the 3rd and searching for a place to enjoy lunch, consider Big Love. It’s a vegetarian Italian spot that serves fantastic smoked burrata.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, maybe hunt down some of Paris’ hidden cocktail bars. See my guide about the Parisian Speakeasies to know where to find them.

4th Arrondissement (Hôtel-de-Ville)

The 4th Arrondissement kicks off at the stunning Paris City Hall and takes in the Marais and the two Seine islands. On the Île-de-la-Cité, you’ll also find the Notre Dame Cathedral.

This part of town that’s not on the islands is best known as the Jewish Quarter and Paris’s LGBTQ hub. There’s a good mix of Middle Eastern restaurants and many bars here.

Think of the 4th as Paris’s old town. Besides former city palaces, it’s home to some of Paris’s oldest buildings and lots of quaint little streets.

Some places to check out:

• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Centre Pompidou
• Place de Vosges with Victor Hugo’s house
• Rue des Rosiers (a lovely street filled with Jewish eateries)
• Mémorial de la Shoa

Quick tip: After admiring the Notre Dame Cathedrals’s facade (the cathedral is still closed after the fire) sneak into the Hotel Dieu and enjoy some peace. It’s a hospital right next to Notre Dame, but has a very serene courtyard.

Then head over to Berthillon for France’s best ice cream. After wandering through Village St.Paul, pop into L’As du Falafel on Rue Rosiers. Rumor has it they serve the best falafel. I’ve got to say, it’s pretty tasty!

5th Arrondissement (Panthéon)

The 5th Arrondissement covers the entire Latin Quarter, which is Paris’s student district. So besides numerous student bars, you’ll find (somewhat) affordable restaurants, the university, research institutions, libraries, and big parks like the Jardin des Plantes.

Alongside the vibrant current student crowd in the 5th Arrondissement, you’ll also encounter notable ones from the past. The Pantheon is where some of France’s most distinguished figures are buried, including Marie Curie and Josephine Baker, who are 2 of the 6 women alongside 75 men.

Some spots to hit up:

• The Panthéon
• Jardin des Plantes
• Shakespeare & Company bookstore
• Grande Mosquée de Paris

A quick suggestion: For a chill evening in Paris, head over to Place Jacqueline de Romilly. You’ll find plenty of pubs, bars, and budget-friendly restaurants. To start, I’d recommend Trantranzai – they’ve got some seriously tasty Chinese noodles at a very fair price.

6th Arrondissement (Luxembourg)

The 6th Arrondissement includes, among others, the lovely Quartier Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the lush Jardin Luxembourg. You’ll find a ton of restaurants and bars here, as well as loads of shops. From major fashion chains to little boutiques, it’s got it all.

The arrondissement is pretty large, so it’s got a mix of vibes. The northern part is quite touristy and bustling, while the south is more chilled out.

Overall, the 6th is a blend: while there are plenty of tourists, you’ll bump into just as many locals.

Places to check out:

• Jardin du Luxembourg
• Cour de Commerce de Saint-Andre
• Quartier Saint-Germain-des-Prés
• Musée Eugène Delacroix
• Saint-Sulpice Church

A little suggestion: Consider having lunch at Colorova and then taking a leisurely stroll up Rue Cherche Midi. It’s a cool way to get a glimpse of everyday Parisian life.

Alternatively, you can wander along Rue de Buci, which is like the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

7th Arrondissement (Palais-Bourbon)

The 7th Arrondissement is mainly known for its top-notch museums, government buildings, and impressive monuments. Like the Eiffel Tower, for example.

However, aside from a few exceptions, it’s somewhat lacking in local flair. Most of the few restaurants and cafés here are either on the pricier side or are tourist traps. But a redeeming feature of the 7th Arrondissement is the Seine riverbank, especially in Summer.

As soon as the sun pops out, the banks are lined up with pop-up bars and beer gardens that are completely worth checking out.

Some must-sees:

• The Eiffel Tower
• Musée d’Orsay
• Rodin Museum
• Hôtel des Invalides

Quick tip: Definitely hit up the museums and monuments in the 7th Arrondissement, but maybe don’t plan to spend too much extra time here.

However, if you’re desiring some gourmet goodies, Bon Marché is a top spot, if you don’t mind spending a bit more.

8th Arrondissement in Paris (Élysée)

The 8th Arrondissement is all about the Golden Triangle, or the “Triangle d’Or”. This part of town is brimming with luxury: from the Champs-Élysées, flagship stores of major luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, to the Arc de Triomphe and the Presidential Palace.

Furthermore, many international companies have set up their headquarters here.

In the northern part of this district in Paris, you find many embassies and the lovely Parc Monceau. It’s a bit quieter and local here but no less stylish and upscale.

Top Spots:

• Champs-Élysées
• Place de la Concorde
• Arc de Triomphe
• Petit Palais
• Musée Jacquemart-André

A little advice: Swing by the Champs-Élysées in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds. After checking out the Arc de Triomphe, head over to Parc Monceau and then venture into the 17th Arrondissement.

Around Rue Levi, you’ll find many little restaurants and shops that stand in stark contrast to the luxury of the 8th Arrondissement. From there, it’s also a short jaunt to Montmartre.

For tasty Japanese dishes like Ramen and Donburi, I’d recommend Yatai Ramen restaurant. (Close to the Arc de Triomphe)

9th Arrondissement (Opéra)

The 9th Arrondissement is primarily known to visitors for the beautiful Palais Garnier where you find the Opèra de Paris, and the Galeries Lafayette. Additionally, it’s also a district with many theaters and museums, as well as numerous shops and restaurants.

Overall, this Parisian district is largely a business center and residential area, tending to be quieter in the evenings. The northern part of the 9th borders Montmartre, and here you have Pigalle – the red-light district with many bars and pubs, contrasting sharply with the rest of the district.

Highlights:

• Galeries Lafayette and Printemps
• Opéra Garnier
• Pigalle
• Musée de la Vie Romantique

My Tip: Visit the Opéra Garnier and then head to the rooftop terrace of the Galerie Lafayette for a fantastic view.

From there, move east and visit the absolutely breathtaking Passage Jouffroy and the equally beautiful Passage Verdeau. Continue north through typical neighborhoods, where you can get a feel for Parisian city life.

10th Arrondissement (Enclos Saint-Laurent)

If you’re arriving in Paris by train, odds are you’ll land here in the 10th arrondissement. Because 2wo of Paris’s major train stations are in this area: Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est.

Thanks to the train stations, this district has that hustle and sometimes slightly dodgy vibe you’d expect. But things get a bit different as you head towards Canal Saint-Martin.

This canal connects the Seine with the northern region of Paris and today, it’s super popular and kinda artsy. You’ll find loads of cool cafés and pubs around here, and a young, slightly alternative crowd. Yes, Canal Saint-Martin is pretty hip.

Cool spots to check out:

• Canal Saint-Martin
• Place de La République
• Passage Brady (for some authentic Indian food)

My Two Cents: Head straight to Canal Saint Martin and take a leisurely stroll along its banks. For some tasty vegetarian and vegan eats, hit up Tien Hiang and Sezono. And if you’re up for some evening fun, Lavomatic’s speakeasy vibe is a must.

Got kids with you? Think about taking a canal lock cruise. I did it last year with mine as we had a blast.

11th Arrondissement (Popincourt)

The 11th Arrondissement was known for its bustling industry, and naturally, it had its fair share of rebellious vibes. The industrial buzz might be gone, but that cool energy lingers. Lots of old warehouses turned into museums or hotels. The most famous museum here is the Atelier des Lumières.

Plus, you’ll come across hip boutiques, bars, and eateries that won’t break the bank like some other parts of Paris.

Highlights:

• Place de la Bastille
• L’Atelier des Lumières (verify availabilities here, they are mostly sold out though)
• Oberkampf (great spot if you look for things to do in Paris at Night)

My Tip: The 11th is the place to be if you’re up for a pub crawl. Around the Oberkampf metro, you’ve got endless pubs, most of them offering budget-friendly happy hours.

For some classy cocktails, sneak into the Moonshiner – it’s a hidden gem behind a pizza joint. If you are more into beer, head to Fauve. It’s a Parisian microbrewery with many choices on the tab and the option of sampling.

12th Arrondissement in Paris (Reuilly)

The 12th Arrondissement of Paris is like a three-in-one deal: there’s the Bois de Vincennes, the Gare de Lyon train station, and a laid-back Parisian residential area. But don’t be fooled – this district has its charms if you know where to look. There are some hidden corners worth exploring.

Highlights:

• Coulée Verte
• Place de la Bastille
• Bercy Village
• Parc Floral and the Human Zoo (!)

My Tip: Take a stroll along the Coulée Verte for a nice view and swing by Ground Control, a cool cultural and culinary hub with a sweet beer garden.

If you’ve got more time, visit the Bois de Vincennes urban forest and its Parc Floral. Or go a bit farther to Jardin Tropical, where remnants of a colonial exhibition (yes, people were actually exhibited back then) can be found.

13th Arrondissement (Gobelins)

The thirteenth? It’s (among others) Paris’s Chinatown. Its Asian community heavily influences the 13th Arrondissement. And that means fantastic Asian eats, mostly Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine.

But this district has a modern center too, around the François Mitterrand Library. You’ve got university buildings, cinemas, shops, and restaurants. In summer, the riverside pops with pop-up bars and beer gardens.

Highlights:

• Street Art (huge murals taking up whole buildings)
• Chinatown
• The Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood

My Tip: Have dinner at one of the best restaurants, Lao Lane Xang (try their crispy rice, riz croustillant), then head to Butte-aux-Cailles. It’s a neighborhood perched on a little hill, with affordable bars, street art, and cute streets, far from touristy Paris.

14th Arrondissement (Observatoire)

Except for Tour Montparnasse and the Catacombs, the 14th Arrondissement is mostly a Parisian neighborhood for the locals. You’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, and cafés where tourists rarely wander. But that’s precisely what makes the 14th interesting.

Highlights:

• The Catacombs
• Musée Jean Moulin
• Parc Montsouris
• Rue des Thermopyles
• Porte de Vanves Flea Market, Les puces de Vanves

My Tip: From the Catacombs, take a stroll down Rue Daguerre heading south to the Petite Ceinture. Alternatively, head down Rue d’Alésia towards the Pernety Metro Station. Perfect for soaking up Parisian life and exploring the city off the tourist path.

For a cool evening, take a look at the bars and restaurants near the Edgar Quinet metro station. It’s a rather affordable non-touristy hang-out spot for locals. The Pizzeria Tripletta is wonderful, by the way.

15th Arrondissement (Vaugirard)

The 15th Arrondissement is the biggest district in Paris and houses the most people. It’s mostly residential, but that doesn’t mean it’s dull. Where residents go, eateries, cafés, and shops follow. The 15th doesn’t boast mind-blowing sights, but it’s got an authentic charm that’s well worth experiencing.

Highlights:

• Tour Montparnasse
• Beaugrenelle Shopping Center
• Parc André Citroën with the Balloon de Paris
• Pont Bir-Hakeim for excellent views of the Eiffel Tower

My Tip: Take a leisurely stroll through the lesser-known Paris. Begin at Parc Georges Brassens with its antique book market, and then walk along the Petite Ceinture to Parc André Citroën.

From here, it’s not far from the Bir-Hakeim Bridge, offering a fantastic view of the Eiffel Tower. Right by Parc Georges Brassens, you’ll find Brasserie Arthur & Juliette, a cute restaurant with steak, fries, salads, and burgers, but also Croque Monsieur.

16th Arrondissement (Passy)

The 16th Arrondissement can be divided into three parts: the very touristy section between Trocadéro and the Arc de Triomphe, the Bois de Boulogne forest, and the quite upscale residential area around the Auteuil Stations.

Many of Paris’s 5-star hotels are in the 16th. There are plenty of shops and restaurants here, but the vibe is more refined compared to the rest of Paris. The Bois de Boulogne forest is perfect for picnics and walks, though.

Highlights:

• Fondation Louis Vuitton
• Jardin d’Acclimatation
• Bois de Boulogne
• Musée de l’Homme
• Palais de Tokyo
• Trocadéro

My Tip: Spend an afternoon at Jardin d’Acclimatation if you’re in Paris with kids. For small-town vibes, take a walk from the Passy metro station up to La Muette.

17th Arrondissement (Batignolles-Monceau)

The 17th Arrondissement is pretty diverse in its makeup. In the south, you’ll find a very bourgeois residential area, benefiting from its proximity to the luxurious 8th Arrondissement and the Champs-Élysées.

The north has its roots in a working-class neighborhood, but it’s become quite hip lately – gentrification at its finest. Batignolles is packed with cafes, small boutiques, and restaurants but it’s overall residential. Place de Clichy profits from its neighbors Pigalle and Montmartre and is full of bars, restaurants, and pubs.

Highlights:

• Square de Batignolles
• Rue de Lévis (little food street)

My Tip: There’s not much to see in the 17th, but if you’ve got the time, I’d still recommend making a detour here. it’s a lovely location to see Parisian everyday life. Your best bet is to take the metro to Guy Môquet station and then zigzag your way southeast on foot.

18th Arrondissement (Butte-Montmartre)

The 18th Arrondissement is off the center but is still one of the most famous arrondissements. Mainly because of its hill and the enchanting neighborhood that clings to its slopes: the beautiful Montmartre, Paris artist quarter.

But the 18th is also home to the districts of Goutte-D’Or and La Chapelle. These 2 areas are among the least safe neighborhoods in Paris, and I would even say they are the area in Paris that you best avoid.

Highlights:

• Sacré-Cœur
• Moulin Rouge
• Place du Tertre
• Montmartre
• Musée Montmartre

My Tip: Set aside at least half a day to explore Montmartre and start early. It gets crowded in the afternoon and on weekends. Refer to my complete Montmartre guide to know more about the best things to do.

19th Arrondissement in Paris (Buttes-Chaumont)

The 19th Arrondissement in Paris is a district of contrasts. While remnants of its industrial history linger in the north and lead to mild unattractiveness, the south is graced by the picturesque Butte-Chaumont. It’s a gem of a park, offering unparalleled views of the city.

And as you wander into the Quartier de la Mouzaïa, the urban hustle fades, making it easy to forget you’re in Paris at all.

Highlights:

• Park Buttes-Chaumont
• Quartier de la Mouzaïa
• Canal de l’Ourcq
• Cité des Sciences
• Park La Villette

My Tip: Grab a Vélib bike and explore this multifaceted Parisian district. Just make sure to get an e-bike: Buttes-Chaumont has some hills.

20th Arrondissement (Ménilmontant)

The 20th Arrondissement is largely residential and low-key. With two exceptions: The Père Lachaise Cemetery and the vibrant Belleville neighborhood. Both have become real visitor magnets in recent years, and Belleville’s street art scene is particularly vibrant.

Highlights:

• Père Lachaise Cemetery
• Belleville
• Street Art

My Tip: After a stroll in the cemetery, walk through the Menilmontant neighborhood to Belleville. I wholeheartedly recommend Kasia’s street art tour here. She is an artist herself and a fantastic guide, who knows many of the local artists and can fill you in on tons of fascinating insider stories.

Voilà, that was my quick guide to the 20 Arrondissements in Paris. I hope this brief overview will help you understand the neighborhoods of Paris better. Each one has its charm, and if you’ve got a bit more time, go ahead and plan a visit to these more off-the-beaten-path Parisian neighborhoods. You’ll see, it’s worth it.

FAQ Arrondissements in Paris

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