Where To Stay In Paris For The First Time: 24 Best Hotels

Planning your first trip to Paris but you’re not sure where to stay? This article will show you where to stay in Paris for the first time! From the best neighborhoods to the best hotels.

One of the challenging things to zero down on when planning your very first trip to Paris is where to stay!

At first, it might seem as easy as just picking a hotel with the best reviews that also matches your budget, but it’s more than that!

Paris has a number of arrondissements and neighborhoods so it’s important to understand what they are to make the right choice.

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Each Parisian arrondissement or neighborhood offers a different kind of vibe with varying experiences, so you’ll need to know if that area suits your needs, because where you stay will somehow impact how your first trip in Paris will be.

But with a number of neighborhoods, deciding where to stay in Paris for the first time and which hotel to make your exploration base can be overwhelming and difficult to navigate.

Luckily for you, I know what each neighborhood and arrondissement offers and I can recommend the best area to stay in Paris for your first visit.

Besides telling you the best neighborhood depending on the type of traveler you are, I’ll also be suggesting some of the best hotels in each area for all budgets.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

MUST-DO EXPERIENCES HAPPENING NOW IN PARIS
Luminiscence at Saint-Eustache Church: A music and lighting show in one of Paris’s most beautiful churches: (4.7/10)
Candlelight show: Perfect if you want to be treated to a candlelit music show in a beautiful Parisian venue: (4.8/10)
Cabaret at Moulin Rouge: A cabaret in the iconic Moulin Rouge is a must: (4.7/10)

Where to Stay in Paris for the First Time by Neighborhood

Without any further ado, here is where to stay in Paris for first timers categorized in arrondissements and neighborhoods!

Louvre Area (1st arrondissement): This is where to Stay in Paris for the First Time For Sightseeing

If you’re traveling to Paris for the first time, chances are high that you want to be as close to many of the city’s famous landmarks as possible and the Louvre area provides that.

Besides being steps away from the best museum in Paris, the Louvre, you’ll also be in close proximity to other attractions.

From beautiful Parisian gardens like the Tuileries gardens, and Jardin du Palais Royal, to stunning Parisian churches like Eglise Saint Eustache and Sainte Chapelle, and the Seine River.

Besides popular attractions, you’re also near Châtelet which is beaming with restaurants and a shopping mall (Les Halles) to do some retail therapy or watch movies. Rue de Rivoli is also a few steps away for some upscale shopping and dining.

You’ll literally be a few steps away from all you’ll need making it the best area to stay in Paris for the first time.

Best Hotels To Stay in the Louvre Area

Budget Accommodation

Hotel Britannique

It’s hard to find a budget-friendly hotel in the Louvre area but one that is close to being affordable while also offering incredible amenities and cozy rooms in bold colors of red and gold is nonother than Hotel Britannique.

Set within an elegant 19th-century building, this hotel puts you right in the bull’s eye of the Louvre, the Seine river, and Notre Dame Cathedral making it a prime base for exploring the city.

Also, the Châtelet metro station is just a minute’s walk from the property, so you can easily connect to other parts of the city.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Mid-range Accommodation

Novotel Paris Les Halles

Ideally located in the thick of the 1st arrondissement’s top attractions like the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral, Novotel Paris Les Halles stands out in a crowded mid-range pack for its spacious modern rooms, a children’s play area, state-of-the-art gym, an onsite restaurant, a lounge bar serving tasty cocktails, and a private garden where you can enjoy a drink on a sunny day.

If you’re looking for the best hotel in Paris for first time visitors, you can’t go wrong with this 4-star hotel that offers luxury at a mid-range budget.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Luxury Accommodation

Le Pradey

Get a taste of luxury in one of Le Pradey’s meticulously decorated suites complemented with elegant furnishing and a balcony in some rooms, then, enjoy a fresh buffet breakfast in the vaulted breakfast room in the morning.

A perfect blend of sophistication and charm, this upscale hotel leaves no detail untouched in making you feel welcome.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Apartment Rental

Citadines Les Halles Paris

For those looking for a homey feel of an apartment rather than a hotel, you won’t be disappointed by Citadines Les Halles Paris.

This aparthotel combines a desirable location with great services. Their contemporary-styled and elegantly furnished apartments feature well-equipped kitchens, and five have disabled-friendly bathrooms.

Other notable communal facilities include a gym, meeting rooms, and a business center.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

You can also check out other hotels near the Louvre museum!

Le Marais: This is Where to stay in Paris for first time visitors looking For A Great Nightlife

Le Marais is brimming with cultural intrigue from the 17th-century architectural masterpieces to the cobblestoned streets and popular attractions Places des Voges and Hotel de Ville.

While the district has also earned a reputation for its thriving cafe scene, galleries and museums, trendy boutiques, and a long list of gourmet restaurants (you can check out the best Le Marais restaurants here), once the sun goes down, the area’s nightlife comes alive, making it the best place to stay in Paris for first time visitors looking to enjoy Paris’ vibrant nightlife.

Whether you prefer speakeasy-style Parisian cocktail bars, sports bars, LGBT-friendly bars, or rooftop bars, Le Marais never disappoints.

Live performances are also a standard here, so don’t be surprised if you end up lingering longer than you planned.

There are so many things to do in Le Marais both at night and during the day, so you can be sure you’ll never run out of things to do and see!

Best Hotels To Stay in Le Marais

Budget Accommodation

Hotel Rivoli

For a budget-friendly stay, book a room at Hotel Rivoli! Though the hotel’s rooms are quite simple with nothing major to write back home for, it puts the best of Le Marais at your fingertips.

Pompidou Centre, Notre Dame cathedral, trendy restaurants, bars, and the metro are all under a 10 minutes walk.

So if you’re on a budget but want to get the most out of Le Marais’s vibrant life, this is the best hotel to stay at.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Mid-range Accommodation

Le Temple De Jeanne

Le Temple De Jeanne is housed in a 14th-century building dedicated to Queen Jeanne de Bourbon.

Modern and medieval details peek out here exuding an old Parisian vibe. This property is also just a stone’s throw from Saint-Paul Metro Station so you will be able to connect to other parts of the city with ease.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Luxury Accommodation

Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa – Small Luxury Hotels of the World

Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa – Small Luxury Hotels of the World is one of the best places to stay in Paris for first timers.

Set in the picturesque Place des Vosges, this 5-star hotel oozes glamour from the moment you walk through its entrance until you reach its beautifully decorated rooms.

You’ll be treated to the utmost best in amenities, including a fitness center, jacuzzi, spa, hammam, and bar.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Apartment Rental

Le Ferdinand – Le Marais Serviced Apartments

Ideal for longer stays in the area, Le Ferdinand – Le Marais Serviced Apartments boasts eight beautifully decorated antique-style apartments with modern amenities and well-equipped kitchenettes.

This apartment is also close to several restaurants and bars, the Seine is just a few minutes walk as well as Notre Dame and Pompidou Center.

Plus, it’s on a very quiet street so even if you’re in the middle of a bustling neighborhood, as soon as you go back to the apartment, it will feel like home.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Eiffel Tower District (7th & 15th Arrondissements): This is where to Stay in Paris for the First Time To be Steps Away from the Eiffel Tower

One of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris for first time visitors is the 7th! Famous for housing the Eiffel Tower, this is the most sought-after area to stay in for those looking to be near the Iron lady.

While this is the most draw, the 7th arrondissement of Paris, or the Eiffel tower district as called by some offers a lot more.

From world-class Paris museums like Orsay museum, Les Invalides, the beautiful Champs de Mars, and upscale restaurants with Eiffel tower views!

As a first-time visitor, you’ll no doubt enjoy staying a few steps from the most famous landmark in Paris.

However, the 7th arr. is not the only arrondissement close to the Eiffel Tower! The 15th arrondissement is also very close. In fact, some hotels in the 15th arr. are much closer to the Iron lady than those in the 7th arr.

Best Hotels To Stay in the Eiffel Tower District

Budget Accommodation

Eiffel Petit Louvre

Budget hotels are hard to come by in this area but one hotel that comes close to being classified as budget is Eiffel Petit Louvre.

This hotel is located just 10 minutes from the Eiffel tower, the rooms are decorated in a modern way with paintings that give off a museum-like vibe. On top of that, some rooms even offer a view of the Eiffel Tower.

In my opinion, Eiffel Petit Louvre is where to stay in Paris for the first time if you are on a budget.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Mid-range Accommodation

Cler Hotel

Located on the famous Parisian street, Rue Cler, Cler Hotel is one of the best hotels in Paris for first time visitors.

Without compromising on style, service, and location, this hotel offers guests 26 well-maintained rooms.

Light wood floors and designer furniture dress up the hotel, while the warm decor exudes an unpretentious Parisian vibe.

Located just 10 minutes from the Eiffel tower, you’ll also be able to enjoy the charms of the street from the cute restaurants, cafes, and local markets.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Luxury Accommodation

Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel

From beautiful modern rooms to an onsite restaurant with a terrace, a stylish wine bar, and a fitness room, Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel delivers luxury like no other.

However, what sets this hotel apart is its close proximity to the Iron lady (just 5 minutes away) and the stunning Eiffel Tower views it provides from several of its rooms!

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Apartment Rental

Résidence Charles Floquet

If you want to be right next to the Eiffel tower (less than 3 minutes away) while also enjoying all the luxuries of a Parisian apartment, then you can’t go wrong with Résidence Charles Floquet.

It has all the amenities you’ll need for a comfortable stay, it’s spacious, has a private patio, and you’ll be able to enjoy the stunning views of the Eiffel tower.

This aparthotel’s location is hard to beat as you are in striking distance of some of the district’s top attractions, and the Bir-Hakeim Metro Station is steps away.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

8th Arrondissement: This is where to Stay in Paris for the First Time For Shopping and Eiffel Tower Views

The 8th arrondissement of Paris is one of the upscale districts famous for its high-end shopping, from the chic Champs Élysées to Avenue Montaigne where you’ll find some of the most luxurious French brands, making it the perfect place for shoppers.

Besides shopping, the 8th arrondissement is also home to some of the most famous attractions in Paris like the Arc de Triomphe and Madeline church, but another reason why it’s a sought-out area to base yourself in is that it has a number of hotels that offer views of the Iron lady.

While the Eiffel Tower is in the 7th arrondissement, it’s still visible from this area making it one of the best areas to stay in Paris for first-time visitors who want to shop at luxury fashion boutiques and retire to a hotel with views of the Eiffel Tower. Not sure where to go? Here are the best hotels to consider.

Best Hotels To Stay in the 8th arrondissement

Budget Accommodation

Hôtel Madeleine Plaza

Being an upscale district, hotels in the 8th arrondissement can be quite pricey so even this budget-friendly hotel may not be too friendly compared to other Parisian neighborhoods but in this area, it is definitely favorable.

Hôtel Madeleine Plaza is conveniently located just opposite Madeleine church with some rooms even offering a nice view of the church and the Eiffel tower from their balconies. And when it comes to the decor, think chic Parisian flair with modern touches.

It is also located near the shopping area and the famous Parisian department stores!  

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Mid-range Accommodation

Royal Madeleine Hotel & Spa

If you’re looking for a chic and modern place, then you won’t go wrong at Royal Madeleine Hotel & Spa.

This hotel has a nice swimming pool to cool off after a long day, a spa, and wellness center.

It also has an on-site restaurant so you don’t have to go far for dinner and when it comes to breakfast, their breakfast buffet will win you over.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Luxury Accommodation

Hotel Marignan Champs-Elysées

Teeming with elegance, marble and oak furniture, and an inviting ambiance, there is nothing not to love about the pet-friendly Hotel Marignan Champs-Elysées.

This 5-star hotel has beautiful modern rooms but the highlight of your stay will be the stunning views of the Eiffel tower you enjoy from the comfort of your private balcony.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Apartment Rental

Aparthotel Adagio Paris Haussmann Champs Elysées

For a home away from home feel, book a stay at this eco-friendly and wheelchair-accessible apartment, Aparthotel Adagio Paris Haussmann Champs Elysées.

It has beautifully furnished serviced apartments with modern amenities, including a fully-equipped kitchen to make quick meals. This apartment is also located a few minutes walk to Champs-Élysées and the department stores.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Montmartre: This is where to Stay in Paris for the First Time For a Village like Vibe

Sitting on a hill, Montmartre is one of the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris for first time visitors looking for a chic and artistic area.

Brimming with beauty at every turn, the district is famous for its narrow cobblestone streets, artistic history, numerous restaurants, and its village-like vibe.

But that’s not all there is in Montmartre! You’ll be surrounded by popular attractions like Sacre Coeur and Moulin Rouge, cute Parisian cafes like Le Consualt and La Maison Rose, and above all, some of the prettiest streets in Paris like Rue Norvins and Rue de l’Abreuvoir.

Though it’s a bit far from other major Parisian landmarks, it is well connected with buses and metros, so it won’t be a problem connecting to other parts of the city.

To appreciate all that Montmartre offers, book a stay at any of the hotels below.

Best Hotels To Stay in the Montmartre

Budget Accommodation

Hotel 29 Lepic

Located on the famous Rue Lepic, Hotel 29 Lepic offers comfortable and warmly decorated rooms without ruining your budget.

This hotel will put you within walking distance of Moulin Rouge, Sacre Coeur, Place du Tertre, Dali museum, and some of the best restaurants in Montmartre including Café des Deux Moulins, a filming location of the popular French movie, Amélie.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Hôtel des Arts Montmartre

With a little more money, you’ll get to enjoy a mid-luxury stay at Hôtel des Arts Montmartre!

The rooms of this hotel are designed with modern colors to create an inviting feeling and some even offer beautiful views over Montmartre and Paris roofs.

Other perks include a fitness area, hammam, and a convenient location, within walking distance to Abbesses and Blanche Metro Stations, Sacré-Coeur Basilica, Moulin Rouge, and more.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Terrass” Hotel

For a luxurious stay in Montmartre, you can’t go wrong with Terrass” hotel!

Set in a 19th-century building, this hotel will treat you to elegantly decorated rooms with some offering a view of the Eiffel tower.

Other luxuries include a rooftop bar/restaurant with a terrace that offers panoramic views of Paris, so even if your room has no view, you can still enjoy it from the onsite rooftop restaurant.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre

All the comforts of a home and some more await you at the pet-friendly Aparthotel Adagio Paris Montmartre located just 5 minutes from Sacré-Coeur.

This apartment is on a quiet street to ensure you feel at home but it’s also very near many restaurants, supermarkets, and bars so you’re never far away from any action.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

You can also check out other great hotels in Montmartre.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés: This is where to Stay in Paris for the First Time for Families

Located in the 6th arrondissement, Saint-Germain-des-Prés has a little bit of everything that makes Paris what it is.

From artistic history, museums, upscale shopping, to endless dining options like Les Deux Magots and Cafe De Flore, there is a plethora of things to do in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

What’s more, it is close to Luxembourg gardens making it the best area to stay in Paris for the first visit if you’re traveling with the entire family.

Make memories with the kids by spending time in gardens, wandering through art galleries, trying delicious pastries, or just strolling through the village-like district.

If you’re a family looking for where to base yourself, do not look past Saint-Germain-des-Prés as it is “much calmer” compared to other parts of Paris. Below are some of the hotels to opt for in this area.

Best Hotels To Stay in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Budget Accommodation

Grand Hotel des Balcons

Located just 6 minutes from the picturesque Luxembourg gardens, Grand Hotel des Balcons is one of the best budget-friendly hotels in Paris for first time visitors.

The hotel has single and family rooms to accommodate all types of travelers! Plus, the friendly and helpful staff will make you feel welcome on top of their beautifully decorated art nouveau-style rooms.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Mid-range Accommodation

Hotel Left Bank Saint Germain

Hotel Left Bank Saint Germain is one of the best places to stay in Paris for first timers traveling with a family.

Located just a stone’s throw from many popular attractions like the Luxembourg Gardens, the Louvre, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, this hotel is set in a beautiful 18th-century building and provides a stay with an in-between charm of history and modernity.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Luxury Accommodation

Victoria Palace Hotel

If you want to treat your family to a luxurious stay while in Paris, then the eco-responsible Victoria Palace Hotel will not disappoint.

The staff is very helpful, their rooms are beautifully decorated, and some even have a view of the Eiffel tower and some a balcony to enjoy some Parisian flair.

Other amenities that make this hotel worthwhile include a gym, an outdoor terrace, an onsite bar, and a wellness center to make your stay memorable.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

Apartment Rental

Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris

If you’d rather stay in an apartment, then Citadines Saint-Germain-des-Prés Paris is the one I recommend. 

This serviced apartment has everything you’d need from a fully functional kitchen to modern amenities. Some rooms even have window views of the Seine.

As for the location, you’ll be within walking distance of the Luxembourg gardens, the Louvre, Notre Dame cathedral, and many other Paris attractions.

>>> Click here to check rates and availability <<<

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Final Thoughts on Where to stay in Paris as a First Time Visitor

If you were looking for where to stay in Paris for the first time, I hope this article has been helpful.

Whether you prefer the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre, the chic sophistication of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the vibrant energy of Le Marais, or you just want to be steps away from the Eiffel tower, you’re sure to find the perfect home away from home in the City of Lights.

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Fun things to do in Paris on a Rainy day
• Famous Paintings in Paris
• Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris
• Famous Paintings at the Louvre Museum
• Best Covered Passages of Paris
• Most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris
• Fun free things to do in Paris
• Famous Churches to Visit in Paris
• Best Museums in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower
• How to spend One day In Paris

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