There are a million reasons to want to live in Paris—
being surrounded by rich, living history;
having more time and freedom to lead a more balanced life;
immersing yourself in French culture, exploring France and the EU;
Whatever your reason may be for wanting to buy property in Paris, it’s important to decide exactly where you want your Paris dream to be situated in the city.
This blog post will be sharing insight and tips from Christine Bacoup-Tidas, J.D.—a French-American buyer’s agent, founder, and owner of Tomette Paris—on the history of Parisian arrondissements and how to select the ideal arrondissement for your home in the City of Light.
- The Definition of Arrondissement
- Recommended Arrondissements to Live In Paris
- Tips for Living in Paris
- Meet Christine
The Definition of Arrondissement
arrondissement [ar-ron-dees-mon] – a subdivision of a French department, for local government administration; an administrative district of certain large French cities, in particular, Paris; French, from arrondir ‘make round’. (Oxford Languages)
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements or administrative districts, starting from le premier arrondissement or the first arrondissement (1er, Louvre) to le vingtième arrondissement or the twentieth arrondissement (20è, Père Lachaise).
Paris was first divided into arrondissements in 1795—at that point, there were only 12: nine on the Right Bank and three on the left. They’re essentially political entities, each one with its own mayor and arrondissement council. As the city grew, Napoléon III and Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann expanded the number in 1860 to 20 by incorporating territory outside the original city limits.
What Are Paris’ Arrondissements? A Complete Guide to All 20 Districts, FODORS TRAVEL
As each arrondissement was added to the city, the spiral of arrondissements happened to take the shape of an escargot or snail (very French).
The basic map overview shows where the arrondissements are located in relation to each other—this interactive visual map may be a more helpful guide to reference throughout.
Each arrondissement is then divided into quartiers or quarters based on monuments. While Parisians may not formally refer to the quartiers, it’s helpful to remember that the names of quartiers align with the names of the arrondissements and most of their respective RATP metro stations.
Let’s take a look at le premier arrondissement as an example:
What are the best arrondissements to live in Paris?
There is no “wrong” arrondissement to live in Paris.
Whether it’s Paris or elsewhere, every city has its different parts and respective characteristics—Paris is no different.
What matters most is figuring out which neighborhood or arrondissement works best for your lifestyle.
Every arrondissement has something to offer for Parisians.
Is Paris a safe place to live in?
Yes, Paris is a relatively safe city to live in.
While the media attention on past protests and previous singular events cannot be ignored, most international media coverage from American news outlets is sensationalized, exaggerated, and drawn-out.
Crime rates in Paris are not low, but the majority of those crimes are petty theft such as pickpocketing, which is mostly targeted to tourists.
Being aware of your surroundings and using common sense will go a long way to prevent becoming a target for pickpocketing. Call the police (17) or emergency services (112) for urgent situations.
Tomette Paris Tip: According to Transparency International, a non-profit dedicated to ending the injustice of corruption, France is one of the least corrupt countries in the EU and across the globe (see the Corruption Perceptions Index). Protests do sometimes attract violent groups but by law, these protests are planned ahead of time.
Recommended Arrondissements to Live In Paris
While it’s true that there is no *wrong* arrondissement to live in Paris, here is a roundup of arrondissements that may be appealing to those looking for a blend of history and entertainment steps away from your Parisian apartment.
3è and 4è arrondissements: Le Marais
Le Marais is a charming area that spans from Places des Vosges and Centre Pompidou to Hôtel de Ville and half of Île de la Cité. The trendy area has a plethora of cool cafés, restaurants, and entertainment. The 4è in particular is the hot spot for LGBTQIA+ and Jewish communities.
Tomette Paris Tip: The third arrondissement is a real melting pot, with families, artists or dynamic young people. Despite the presence of tourists in some very busy corners, the streets are quiet. In the fourth arrondissement, you will find a wide variety of gay-friendly bars, restaurants, bookstores, and shops near Hôtel de Ville.
Top Cultural Attractions in 3è and 4è arrondissements
- Place des Vosges (3è) – the oldest square in Paris dating back to the Renaissance
- Centre Georges Pompidou (3è) – modern and contemporary art museum
- Marché des Enfants Rouge (3è) – the oldest market in Paris
- Musée de Picasso (3è)
- Musée des Arts et Métiers (3è) – museum focus on the preservation of scientific inventions
- Hôtel de Ville (4è)
Favorite Restaurant Recommendations in 3è and 4è arrondissements
- Café Charlot
- Les Philosophes
- Breizh Café
- L’As du Falafel
Tomette Paris Tip: Le Loir dans La Théière is my favorite place to have tea and homemade delicious pastries. The quiches and gateau au chocolat are to die for!
6è arrondissement: Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Luxembourg
Welcome to the classic Rive Gauche or Left Bank arrondissement with its traditional architecture and tree-lined streets. Walking from Jardin du Luxembourg, along Rue de Seine through the winding streets to reach the Seine River is a romantic, picturesque stroll that feels like you’ve been transported to the past. The 6è arrondissement has an artistic allure that has captured the likes of Eugène Delacroix and les philosophes such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir who frequented cafés to endlessly discuss and debate over the state of existence (existentialism).
Tomette Paris Tip: I enjoy reading a good book in the Luxembourg garden (the locals say “Le Luco”) or going across the street to Le Rostand and ordering a Salade Rostand (composed of grapefruits, tomatoes, avocados, shrimps, and French dressing) and one of their delicious tarts for dessert. Patrol is one of my favorite places for brunch. They make light pancakes with fresh red fruits on top, and the waiters are really friendly.
Top Cultural Attractions in 6è arrondissement
- Jardin du Luxembourg
- Musée de la Monnaie
- Marché du Saint Germain – covered market
Favorite Restaurant Recommendations in 6è arrondissement
- The literary cafés—Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, Cloiserie des Lilas
- Treize au Jardin
- La Palette
11è arrondissement: République, Oberkampf
The eleventh arrondissement has its own eclectic blend of trendy restaurants, diverse communities, and cultural attractions with the historical backdrop of Place de la République. The eleventh arrondissement has also emerged as a hub for tech startups, co-working spaces, and innovation centers—this entrepreneurial spirit contributes to the area’s modern and progressive character.
Tomette Paris Tip: I recommend you spend some time Rue Oberkampf: it is not to be missed for its cafés, night life and street art!
Top Cultural Attractions in 11è arrondissement
- Place de la Bastille
- Place de la Nation
- Atelier des Lumières – digital museum
Favorite Restaurant Recommendations in 11è arrondissement
- Ober Mama
- Le Servan
- Au Passage
7è arrondissement: Tour Eiffel
The allure of the arrondissement that has the Eiffel Tower speaks for itself—and so does the pricing of the apartments. Between Champs de Mars and École Militaire, the seventh arrondissement is great for those seeking open green space. Picnicking at Champs de Mars starting in late afternoon through the early evening to witness the Eiffel Tower sparkle is a true *pinch-me* Paris moment.
For another romantic stroll in Paris, walk along Rue Cherche Midi before reaching Le Bon Marché and La Grande Épicerie, then head to Beaupassage, one of the newer passages in the city featuring store fronts from Thierry Max and Pierre Hermé that will please gourmet foodies.
Tomette Paris Tip: If you are nostalgic of Julia Child’s cooking class, you should know about Veronique’s Market Tours and Cooking Classes. Veronique is a wonderful, enthusiastic French chef, married to an American. For over 10 years, Veronique has been teaching French food lovers about her delicious cooking. If you wish, she will take you to the rue Cler food market, just like Julia Child used to, to buy some of the ingredients needed for the meal you will prepare with her. Bon appétit!
Top Cultural Destinations in 7è arrondissement
- Tour Eiffel
- Champs de Mars
- Esplanade des Invalides
- Rue de Grenelle – shopping street
- Le Bon Marché – historic department store
Favorite Restaurant Recommendations in 7è arrondissement
- Chez l’Ami Jean
- Chez Dumonet
- La Fontaine de Mars
9è arrondissement: Opéra
The ninth arrondissement is known for its artistic heritage, with the Palais Garnier opera house and various theaters, making it a haven for those who appreciate music, dance, and performing arts. Combined with elegant Haussmannian buildings and charming passageways, the area preserves its historical charm while embracing modernity.
Tomette Paris Tip: I particularly enjoy walking on Rue des Martyrs, a pedestrian street with a variety of shops and restaurants. Rue des Martyrs also becomes in the evening and at night a mecca for nightlife and Parisian parties.
Top Cultural Destinations in 9è arrondissement
- Palais Garnier
- Galeries Lafayette
- Printemps
- Passage Jouffroy, Passage Verdeau—P.S. there are other covered passageways to explore in the city
Favorite Restaurant Recommendations in 9è arrondissement
- Chez Delphine
- Les Canailles
- ROOF Paris – rooftop bar at Hotel Madame Rêve
- Sequoia – rooftop bar at Kimpton St. Honoré
15è arrondissement: Vaugirard
The fifteenth arrondissement is known for its residential character, providing a quieter and more tranquil atmosphere compared to some busier central districts of Paris—it only makes sense that the area is popular among families due to its safe and welcoming environment, with schools, parks, and family-oriented amenities.
The fifteenth arrondissement is the most populated arrondissement in Paris, consisting of nearly 10% of the city’s population, according to Statista.
Tomette Paris Tip: The Marché du Livre Ancien, which opens every weekend in the halls adjoining the Georges Brassens park. is a unique place with more than 50 booksellers from different backgrounds.
Top Cultural Destinations in 15è arrondissement
- Musée Bourdelle
- Marché du Livre Ancien
- Parc André Citroën
- Parc Georges-Brassens
Favorite Restaurant Recommendations in 15è arrondissement
- Neige d’été
- Le Radis Beurre
- Good News Coffee Shop
17è arrondissement: Batignolles
Living in the seventeenth arrondissement of Paris presents a harmonious blend of residential comfort, cultural attractions, and convenient amenities. The area offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle, creating a serene residential environment that’s favored by families and professionals alike.
Tomette Paris Tip: The Batignolles district is one of the most emblematic villages of the capital. Much appreciated for its tranquility and its trendy shops, it is particularly lively around the Place du Docteur Felix-Lobligeois. This small pedestrian square, where a church stands, is surrounded by bistros, terraces and restaurants and Haussmanian buildings.
Top Cultural Destinations in 17è arrondissement
- Parc Monceau
Favorite Restaurant Recommendations in 17è arrondissement
- Ripaille
- Le P’tit Musset
Tips for Living in Paris
Embrace the local culture and lifestyle
The best way to assimilate into Parisian culture is taking a deep breath and making the best effort to to try new things. Embrace the local way of life by integrating into the city’s rich culture, from savoring traditional cuisine to engaging with art, music, and local customs.
Explore hidden gems within your chosen arrondissement
It’s easy to stay with what’s familiar, but once you get used to your surroundings, continue to explore new places. Find your own Paris and uncover charming cafés, boutique shops, and lesser-known attractions that capture the authentic spirit of City of Light.
Utilize public transportation efficiently
Paris’ well-connected public transportation system offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate the city, enabling you to explore with ease while reducing commuting stress. The faster you learn to navigate the bus and rail system in Paris, the better off you’ll be.
Connect with expat and local communities
Finding groups on Facebook or Meetup is a great way to connect with others in Paris—digital communities are a great way to answer some basic questions as well as arrange in-person gatherings to make new connections. Most admins work hard to create a strong sense of community for members so that content and posts remain relevant and helpful. Americans in Paris, American Expats in Paris, Women Living in Paris, and Meetups and Sorties – Parisians and Expats, are helpful Facebook groups to join.
Meet Christine
Christine Bacoup-Tidas, J.D. is the founder and owner of Tomette Paris.
She is French-American and provides independent buyer’s agent services in Paris, France.
Christine lived and worked in New York City for 16 years as a lawyer before returning to France in 2002.
Since relocating to Paris, she has made it her mission to share her love of Paris and help others achieve their property goals seamlessly, especially those who, like herself, were navigating the Parisian real estate market from a distance.
Christine earned her B.A. in Political Science and International Relations at Hunter College and subsequently obtained her J.D. from the Jacob D. Fuchsberg Touro Law Center. Christine is also a member of the Association of American Women in Europe (AAWE) and the Professional Women’s Network in Paris (PWN).
Christine lives in the Latin Quarter with her husband and daughter.
Connect with Christine on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn.
New England Parisienne 