8 Must-See Paris Neighborhoods and How to Visit

Poised in the lofty 18th arrondissement, hilly Montmartre offers unbeatable views overlooking Paris and beyond. Make like Amélie Poulain and ascend to Sacré Coeur Basilica (Basilique du Sacré-Coeur for the best angles. Once there, swing by other local landmarks, such as Montmartre Cemetery, and stop by the Rue des Martyrs to browse boutiques and gourmet food shops. Once the sun sets, head to nearby Pigalle for an after-dark cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge.

One of Paris’ most popular neighborhoods, the Latin Quarter (the city’s 5th arrondissement), was frequented by some of the 20th century’s most influential artists and literary luminaries. Today, it’s still renowned for its bohemian, romantic spirit. The area maintains an erudite feel, thanks to universities such as the Sorbonne and the storied Shakespeare and Company Bookstore. And if you want to unwind after all that learning, head to the Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg) or embark on a food-and-wine tour.

Historically the city’s Jewish quarter, Le Marais is now one of Paris’ hippest neighborhoods, spread across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. Its narrow streets are filled with upscale boutiques, stylish cafés, and cutting-edge galleries.

The area is also a sightseeing heavyweight, thanks to landmarks such as the Picasso Museum (Musée National Picasso Paris) and the historic Place des Vosges, a classically French square with beautiful buildings. Don’t forget to sample the falafel sandwich at L’As du Fallafel on the Rue des Rosiers—it’s one of the city’s essential eating experiences.

Just west of the Latin Quarter in the 6th arrondissement, Saint-Germain-des-Prés was frequented by famous writers and creatives; it’s home to Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, where the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Simone de Beauvoir once lingered. Today, the neighborhood has grown into the epitome of chic Paris. Stroll its boulevards on a walking tour, browse its shops, head out for an evening of jazz, and wander into the church for which the area is named.

Also known as le premier arrondissement, the 1st arrondissement is the very heart of Paris. It may be small, but this neighborhood packs plenty of bang for its sightseeing buck. Its most famous attraction is unquestionably the Louvre, where you should plan to book a private tour to beat the worst of the crowds. The 1st arrondissement also houses the Palais Royal, [Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries)(https://www.viator.com/Paris-attractions/Tuileries-Garden-Jardin-des-Tuileries/overview/d479-a572#overview)], and Les Halles, all of which are worth a visit.

Related:Top 5 Things To See at the Louvre in Paris

Yes, Paris is home to islands. While the western half of Île de la Cité is technically part of the 1st arrondissement, the island—one of two Seine islands in Paris—really is an entity all its own. Boasting two of Paris’ most noteworthy monuments (Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte Chapelle) and traversed by the picturesque Pont Neuf (one of the oldest bridges in Paris), it’s at the top of most visitors’ Paris wish lists.

Spanning four different arrondissements in Paris’ northeast, eclectic Belleville feels like a dynamic counterpoint to the city’s stately, heavily touristed heart. Long home to diverse immigrant communities (it plays host to one of several Parisian Chinatowns), the Belleville of today is a blend of different worlds. Expect to see local markets and restaurants offset by colorful street art and hip coffee roasters. Head off on an artist-led walking tour to admire its urban murals or go on a tasty crawl of its key food stops.

In Paris, the Seine always gets top billing. While the Canal Saint-Martin can’t quite compete, the waterway is quite lovely in its own way. Located in the 10th arrondissement, the boho neighborhood that shares its name falls well off the typical tourist trail. You’ll likely spot locals chatting and picnicking along the water’s edge (or occupying the wine bars and cafés nearby)—pick up a snack and drink and join them. Or set off with a Parisian in tow to discover this area’s charm on an off-the-beaten-path walking tour.