Paris by the Numbers: Understanding the Arrondissements
Paris is divided into 20 administrative districts, or arrondissements. Think of them as mini-neighborhoods, each with its own unique flavor and identity.
These arrondissements aren’t just arbitrary divisions on a map; they each have distinct histories, personalities, and even their own architectural styles. From the artsy vibes of Montmartre to the historic charm of the Marais, each arrondissement offers a different lens through which to experience Paris.
They’re arranged in a concentric, almost snail-like pattern, spiraling out from the city center. This makes navigating Paris surprisingly intuitive, once you get the hang of it.
This article will act as your guide to exploring Paris, arrondissement by arrondissement. We’ll dive into the must-see attractions, hidden gems, and essential experiences that each district has to offer. Plus, we’ll share some practical tips for getting around and understanding how the arrondissement system can help you make the most of your Parisian adventure.
So, grab your metaphorical beret and let’s explore the neighborhoods of Paris. A map is included to help you get started, but keep reading to get a more in-depth look at each district.
Paris Arrondissement Map: Understanding the City’s Layout
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, which are like neighborhoods or districts. They’re arranged in a spiral pattern, starting with the 1st arrondissement in the center and spiraling outwards in a clockwise direction. Knowing this pattern is super helpful for finding your way around.
The Seine River is a defining feature of Paris, splitting the city into the Right Bank (Rive Droite) and the Left Bank (Rive Gauche). Historically, the Right Bank was known for commerce and business, while the Left Bank was the center of intellectual and artistic life. Although those distinctions have blurred over time, the river still influences the character of each side.
Finally, the Périphérique is a major highway that loops around the outer edge of Paris, marking a kind of boundary for the city. It’s a vital transportation route, but also a visual reminder of where the city ends and the suburbs begin.
Right Bank, Left Bank, and the Seine River Islands
Paris is often divided into two main areas: the Right Bank (Rive Droite) and the Left Bank (Rive Gauche), named for their positions as you face downstream on the Seine River. There are also two islands in the Seine that are worth noting.
The Right Bank
The Right Bank has traditionally been the center of Parisian business and commerce, known for its grand boulevards and upscale shopping, including the famous Grands Magasins, or department stores. The Right Bank includes parts or all of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, and 20th arrondissements.
The Left Bank
The Left Bank is known for its intellectual and artistic history, home to historic universities like the Sorbonne and literary cafes where famous writers and thinkers once gathered. The Left Bank includes the 5th, 6th, 7th, 13th, 14th, and 15th arrondissements.
The Seine River Islands
Two islands sit in the middle of the Seine River:
- Île de la Cité: The historical heart of Paris and the location of the Notre Dame Cathedral. This island marks the site of the earliest settlement in Paris, dating back about 2,300 years.
- Île Saint-Louis: Known for its charming residential streets and the famous Berthillon ice cream shop.
Paris Arrondissement Guide: Exploring Each District
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or districts, each with its own unique flavor and attractions. Think of them as mini-cities within the City of Lights. To help you plan your trip, here’s a quick guide to what you’ll find in each one:
1st Arrondissement: Louvre Museum, Sainte-Chapelle, Les Halles, Tuileries Garden
The 1st is home to some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, including the Louvre Museum, the stunning Sainte-Chapelle with its stained glass, the bustling Les Halles shopping center, and the elegant Tuileries Garden. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for delicious food and wine experiences here, too.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, consider the stylish Hotel Edouard VII or the trendy Hotel Bachaumont. Many Seine River cruises either start or pass through the 1st, giving you a fantastic view of these top attractions from the water.
2nd Arrondissement: Covered Arcades, Sentier, Bourse
The 2nd arrondissement is known for its charming covered arcades, the vibrant Sentier district (a hub for textiles and fashion), and the Bourse (Paris Stock Exchange). It’s a very central location, so you’ll want to research hotels here.
3rd Arrondissement (Temple): Picasso Museum, Upper Marais, Musée Carnavalet
Art lovers will enjoy the 3rd, home to the Picasso Museum and the Musée Carnavalet (history of Paris museum). The Upper Marais is a trendy area with boutiques and art galleries.
4th Arrondissement: Notre Dame, Pompidou Center, Île Saint-Louis, Place des Vosges, Hôtel de Ville
The 4th is packed with must-see sights like the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, the modern art Pompidou Center, the charming Île Saint-Louis, the beautiful Place des Vosges, and the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). A great way to experience the Marais district is by taking a food and wine tasting walking tour.
5th Arrondissement: Latin Quarter, Sorbonne University, Panthéon, Jardin des Plantes
The 5th is the historic Latin Quarter, home to the prestigious Sorbonne University, the impressive Panthéon, and the lovely Jardin des Plantes (botanical garden).
6th Arrondissement: Luxembourg Garden, Saint Germain des Prés, & Saint-Sulpice Church
The 6th offers the relaxing Luxembourg Garden, the stylish Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood, and the grand Saint-Sulpice Church. Walking tours are a great way to explore this area. You’ll find many hotels here, so do your research to find the perfect one for your needs.
7th Arrondissement: Eiffel Tower, Orsay Museum, Bon Marché, Champ de Mars
Of course, you can’t miss the 7th, home to the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay (impressionist art), the upscale Bon Marché department store, and the Champ de Mars park. As with the 6th, this is a popular tourist area, so research hotels to find the right fit.
8th Arrondissement: Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Golden Triangle, Parc Monceau
The 8th is where you’ll find the majestic Arc de Triomphe, the famous Champs-Élysées avenue, the high-fashion Golden Triangle, and the peaceful Parc Monceau. Enjoy visiting the shops and restaurants along the Champs-Élysées. Take a walk around the Arc de Triomphe to fully appreciate its grandeur.
9th Arrondissement: Palais Garnier, Pigalle, Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Wax Museum, Covered Passages
The 9th offers the opulent Palais Garnier opera house, the lively Pigalle area (home to the Moulin Rouge), the grand Galeries Lafayette and Printemps department stores, the Grévin Wax Museum, and some beautiful covered passages.
10th Arrondissement: Canal Saint-Martin, Place de la République, Gare du Nord, Gare de l’Est
The 10th is known for the trendy Canal Saint-Martin, the bustling Place de la République, and the Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est train stations.
11th Arrondissement: Place de la Bastille, Oberkampf, Nightlife, Atelier des Lumières
The 11th offers the historic Place de la Bastille, the vibrant Oberkampf district, a thriving nightlife scene, and the immersive Atelier des Lumières art center.
12th Arrondissement: Proménade Plantée, Marché d’Aligre Market, Bercy Village, Bois de Vincennes
The 12th is home to the unique Proménade Plantée elevated park, the bustling Marché d’Aligre market, the charming Bercy Village shopping area, and the vast Bois de Vincennes park.
13th Arrondissement: Gobelins Tapestry, Place d’Italie, Street Art, Butte aux Cailles
The 13th offers the historic Gobelins Tapestry manufactory, the central Place d’Italie, a thriving street art scene, and the charming Butte aux Cailles neighborhood.
14th Arrondissement: The Catacombs, Montparnasse Cemetery, Fondation Cartier
The 14th is home to the eerie Catacombs, the Montparnasse Cemetery (resting place of famous figures), and the Fondation Cartier contemporary art museum.
15th Arrondissement: Parc André Citroen, Montparnasse Tower, Beaugrenelle Mall
The 15th offers the modern Parc André Citroen, the Montparnasse Tower (for panoramic views), and the Beaugrenelle shopping mall.
16th Arrondissement: Trocadéro, Palais de Tokyo, Musée Marmottan, Bois de Boulogne, Paris Aquarium
The 16th offers the Trocadéro (for Eiffel Tower views), the Palais de Tokyo modern art museum, the Musée Marmottan Monet, the expansive Bois de Boulogne park, and the Paris Aquarium.
17th Arrondissement: Batignolles Square, Martin Luther King Park
The 17th is known for the peaceful Batignolles Square and the modern Martin Luther King Park.
18th Arrondissement: Montmartre, Sacré Coeur, Moulin Rouge, Les Puces Flea Market
The 18th is home to the artistic Montmartre neighborhood, the stunning Sacré Coeur Basilica, the famous Moulin Rouge cabaret, and the sprawling Les Puces de Saint-Ouen flea market.
How to use arrondissement numbers
The arrondissement system can be confusing, but it’s useful once you understand it. Here are some ways you can use the numbers to plan your trip:
- Navigation. Use the arrondissement numbers as a guide when you’re getting around. Understanding the layout will help you orient yourself.
- Address lookup. Every address in Paris includes a postal code that ends in the arrondissement number. For instance, if an address has the postal code 75008, you’ll know it’s in the 8th arrondissement.
- Itinerary planning. Knowing which attractions are in which arrondissements will help you plan efficient routes. Grouping activities by location will save you travel time.
- Accommodation selection. If you plan to spend most of your time in a particular area, consider staying in that arrondissement. This will make it easier to get to the places you want to see.
Getting around Paris
Paris is a big city, but it’s easy to navigate, thanks to its many transportation options.
The Paris Metro is an extensive, efficient subway system that can get you almost anywhere quickly. If you’re new to the city, consider a hop-on/hop-off bus tour. These double-decker buses stop at major landmarks, letting you explore at your own pace.
Many of Paris’s arrondissements, or neighborhoods, are also very walkable. So, put on your walking shoes and explore the hidden gems on foot!
Finally, for a different perspective, consider a cruise on the Seine River. You’ll glide past iconic landmarks while enjoying the scenery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prettiest arrondissement in Paris?
Ah, the prettiest! That’s a tough one, as beauty is in the eye of the beholder. But, the 4th arrondissement, home to Île Saint-Louis and parts of Le Marais, often tops the list. Its charming streets, historic architecture, and romantic atmosphere make it a strong contender.
What is the name for the 20 different neighborhoods in Paris?
Those aren’t just neighborhoods; they’re arrondissements! Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, arranged in a clockwise spiral starting from the center of the city. Each has its own unique character and charm.
What’s the best neighborhood to stay in Paris?
The “best” neighborhood depends entirely on what you’re looking for. The Marais (3rd & 4th) is great for history and culture, Saint-Germain-des-Prés (6th) is chic and sophisticated, and the Latin Quarter (5th) is lively and student-filled. Think about your travel style and budget to find the perfect fit!
What is the coolest neighborhood in Paris?
For a truly cool vibe, check out Canal Saint-Martin (10th). It’s got a trendy, bohemian feel with stylish boutiques, hip cafes, and a vibrant nightlife scene. It’s a little more off the beaten path and offers a glimpse into modern Parisian life.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Paris’s unique arrondissement system is key to having a great trip. It’s more than just knowing where you are on a map; it’s about understanding the character of each neighborhood.
While the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre are must-sees, don’t limit yourself to the main attractions. Paris is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Venture into the outer arrondissements, explore local markets, and wander down quiet side streets. You’ll find a side of Paris that most tourists miss.
Planning your trip by arrondissement can help you create a more immersive and rewarding experience. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or fashion, each arrondissement has something unique to offer. So, grab a map, do your research, and get ready to explore the many faces of Paris. Bon voyage!