París is the City of Light and one of the most visited destinations worldwide, as well as one of the largest in area. To better understand the layout of this extensive city, it is divided into what is known as the districts of Paris.
Currently, Paris is made up of 20 districts (arrondissements in French), usually written with Roman numerals. The lower numbers correspond to the historic city center, and as the numbers increase, you move further from the core to the city’s outer limits.
Each district can encompass multiple neighborhoods of Paris. Interestingly, the district number matches the last two digits of the postal code for that area. If you’re exploring Paris for the first time, understanding this structure can be quite useful in planning your itinerary, from the bustling heart to the quieter outskirts.
Map of the Districts of Paris
Here is an interactive map of Paris’ districts, showing the areas they cover within the city. Clicking on any colored section will display the district number, and zooming in will reveal important landmarks:
District 1: 1st Arrondissement
The First District of Paris may be quite small in size, but it is rich in tradition and culture. It represents the historic core of the city, dating back to the medieval era. Located on the right bank of the River Seine, this district offers everything from high-end shops in Place Vendôme to charming cafés and restaurants around Les Halles.
The district is divided into four neighborhoods (quartiers):
- Quartier Saint-Germain-l’Auxerrois
- Quartier des Halles
- Quartier du Palais-Royal
- Quartier de la Place Vendôme
Some must-see places and landmarks include:
- Louvre Palace
- Palais Royal
- Tuileries Garden
- Musée de l’Orangerie
- La Conciergerie
- Sainte Chapelle
- Théâtre du Châtelet
- Carrousel Bridge
- Saint-Michel Bridge
Activities you can enjoy in this district include:
- Skip-the-line tickets for the Louvre Museum
- Audioguide for the Musée de l’Orangerie
- Entry to the Conciergerie prison
For a more immersive experience, consider exploring at a leisurely pace, taking time to soak in the area’s history, art, and ambiance.
District 2: 2nd Arrondissement
The 2nd arrondissement, also on the right bank of the Seine, is famed for its fashion boutiques near Place des Victoires and the historic covered passages. This district is also known for its vibrant leisure scene, home to theaters like the Opéra Comique.
When visiting, head to Rue Montorgueil, a lively street packed with bars and restaurants, perfect for enjoying the local atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot to take a leisurely walk and experience Parisian life firsthand.
The district is divided into four neighborhoods (quartiers):
- Quartier Gaillon
- Quartier Vivienne
- Quartier du Mail
- Quartier Bonne-Nouvelle
Key attractions in this district include:
- The Bourse de Commerce
- Shopping Galleries
- Palais Brongniart
- Rue Montorgueil
- Opéra Comique
- Place des Victoires
- Nazareth Synagogue
Whether you’re exploring for fashion, history, or a taste of Parisian nightlife, this district offers a bit of everything. Don’t miss the unique experience of discovering its hidden passages, where every corner has a story to tell.
Recommended activities in this district:
District 3: 3rd Arrondissement
We continue with a historic district full of museums, markets, and fashion boutiques. It’s a monumental area boasting many buildings from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance that have been meticulously preserved, maintaining their ancient charm.
This district features part of the Marais neighborhood, known for its art galleries and eclectic shops. The Marché des Enfants Rouges is a must-visit spot for picking up fresh produce or enjoying a meal to relax during a busy travel day. For nightlife, you’ll find lively cafés around the Marais area, bustling well into the night.
The district is divided into four neighborhoods (quartiers):
- Quartier des Arts-et-Métiers
- Quartier Enfants-Rouges
- Quartier Archives
- Quartier Sainte-Avoye
Some of the most noteworthy places to visit include:
- Picasso Museum
- Marché des Enfants Rouges
- Musée des Arts et Métiers
- Carnavalet Museum
- Le Marais
- Hôtel de Soubise
Recommended activities and tours:
Consider spending time at a local café or walking through the historic streets for a genuine glimpse into Parisian culture.
District 4: 4th Arrondissement
The Fourth District of Paris is an area bursting with culture, featuring iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, the modern Pompidou Center, and elegant mansions in the Marais. Beyond these sites, strolling through Marais is highly recommended to experience Parisian life—full of fashion boutiques, charming cafés, and vibrant nightlife.
The district is divided into four neighborhoods (quartiers):
- Quartier Saint-Merri
- Quartier Saint-Gervais
- Quartier de l’Arsenal
- Quartier Notre-Dame
Highlights of this district include:
- Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Georges Pompidou Center
- Place des Vosges
- Hôtel de Ville
- Île Saint-Louis
- Le Marais
- Place de la Bastille
- Sully Palace
- Salon Frédéric Chopin
- Musée de la Magie
- National Museum of Modern Art
Interesting activities in this area:
- Spanish Walking Tour of Notre-Dame with Crypt Access
- Virtual Reality Visit of Notre-Dame
- Entry to the Pompidou Center for Modern Art
Explore hidden courtyards and venture into Île Saint-Louis for a picturesque setting perfect for a quiet afternoon walk.
District 5: 5th Arrondissement
The Fifth District, known as the Latin Quarter, is celebrated for its academic and student atmosphere, thanks to the presence of the University of the Sorbonne. Wandering through its cobblestone streets is a joy, as they are lined with bookshops, cafés, and restaurants that invite you to pause and soak in the bohemian ambiance.
Take time to visit historic sites and don’t miss the charming ambiance that makes this neighborhood a favorite for both locals and visitors alike.
And we must mention the renowned Rue Mouffetard, a vibrant street bustling with markets and specialty food shops offering fresh produce. The importance of gastronomy is also evident along Boulevard Saint-Michel, filled with numerous restaurants and cozy cafés.
If you are seeking green spaces to escape the city’s noise, the Jardin des Plantes and the Natural History Museum are highly recommended. These areas provide a refreshing respite and offer a blend of nature and culture.
The district is also organized into four neighborhoods, as we have often seen:
- Quartier Saint-Victor
- Quartier du Jardin-des-Plantes
- Quartier du Val-de-Grâce
- Quartier de la Sorbonne
Places to visit include:
- University of La Sorbonne
- Panthéon of Paris
- Cluny Museum
- Jardin des Plantes
- Arènes de Lutèce
- Rue Mouffetard
- Boulevard Saint-Michel
- Grand Mosque of Paris
Recommended activities in this district:
- Entrance Ticket to the Panthéon
- Guided Tour of Latin Quarter Bars and Nightclubs
- Free Tour of the Latin Quarter
For a taste of Parisian daily life, visiting Rue Mouffetard and stopping at one of the many local eateries is a memorable experience.
District 6: 6th Arrondissement
The Sixth District of Paris is known for its rich artistic, literary, and musical heritage, boasting an array of historical cafés and bookshops that have served as gathering places for writers and intellectuals over the centuries. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the most famous neighborhoods, brimming with cultural significance.
The Luxembourg Gardens, a tranquil haven, are also located here. It’s the perfect spot to take a leisurely walk, admire the geometric fountains, statues, and floral displays, or simply relax on a bench in the shade.
The neighborhoods within this district include:
- Quartier de la Monnaie
- Quartier de l’Odéon
- Quartier Notre-Dame-des-Champs
- Quartier Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Must-visit locations in the Sixth Arrondissement:
- Luxembourg Gardens
- Saint-Sulpice Church
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church
- Odéon Theatre
- Luxembourg Museum (home of the French Senate)
- École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts
- Le Bon Marché
- Café de Flore
- Les Deux Magots
Whether you’re a fan of classic literature or simply wish to enjoy a quiet afternoon, this district has something special for everyone.
District 7: 7th Arrondissement
The Seventh District of Paris covers a vast area, and its streets, with their tree-lined avenues, feel spacious and open, unlike the dense, historic center. This district is celebrated for its iconic landmarks and abundant green spaces, such as the Champ de Mars. Most notably, this is where you will find the world-famous Eiffel Tower.
Many embassies and government buildings are also located here, lending the district a refined and relaxed atmosphere, accentuated by its generous plots of land. Walking around this district on foot is highly recommended to fully appreciate the greenery and laid-back charm that sets it apart from other neighborhoods.
Here are the four well-known neighborhoods that make up this district:
The Seventh District of Paris is divided into four well-known neighborhoods:
- Quartier Saint-Thomas-d’Aquin
- Quartier des Invalides
- Quartier de l’École-Militaire
- Quartier du Gros-Caillou
Here are some of the most notable sites in this district:
- Eiffel Tower
- Les Invalides
- Orsay Museum
- Rodin Museum
- Champ de Mars
- Alexander III Bridge
- UNESCO Headquarters
This district offers numerous activities, and here are the best ones:
- Guided Tour of the Eiffel Tower and Seine River Cruise
- Elevator Tour of the Eiffel Tower
- Skip-the-Line Entry to Les Invalides
- Guided Visit to Les Invalides
- Orsay Museum Entry Ticket
- Combined Ticket for Orsay and Rodin Museums
The district’s charm comes from its blend of grandeur and tranquility. Enjoy a picnic at the Champ de Mars or take a leisurely walk along the Seine for the quintessential Paris experience.
District 8: 8th Arrondissement
The Eighth District is one of the most glamorous parts of Paris, with its wide avenues, luxury shops, upscale restaurants, and famous landmarks. It’s also a significant business hub, home to numerous corporate offices and headquarters.
If there’s one place to highlight, it would be the Avenue des Champs-Élysées, a premier destination for shopping and picking up souvenirs. The avenue begins at Place de la Concorde, nestled between the Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre.
The neighborhoods of the Eighth District include:
- Quartier des Champs-Élysées
- Quartier du Faubourg-du-Roule
- Quartier de la Madeleine
- Quartier de l’Europe
Places worth visiting here include:
- Champs-Élysées
- Arc de Triomphe
- Place de la Concorde
- Élysée Palace
- Madeleine Church
- Grand Palais
- Petit Palais
- Champs-Élysées Theatre
Recommended activities include:
Strolling down the Champs-Élysées at sunset and watching the city lights come to life is an unforgettable experience. Be sure to take in the view from the Arc de Triomphe’s rooftop for a panoramic look at the city.
District 9: 9th Arrondissement
The Ninth District is famous for its theaters, music venues, grand department stores, and vibrant nightlife. The bustling Pigalle neighborhood is worth visiting, especially for an evening stroll through its diverse and lively streets.
For shopping, head to Galeries Lafayette or Printemps, two iconic department stores. For a cultural experience, the magnificent Opéra Garnier and the cabaret venue “Folies Bergère” are must-sees.
With its mix of entertainment, shopping, and cultural spots, this district never fails to captivate. Indulge in an evening of theater or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of the Parisian night.
The Parisian neighborhoods you can explore in this area are as follows:
- Quartier de la Chaussée-d’Antin
- Quartier Saint-Georges
- Quartier du Faubourg-Montmartre
- Quartier de Rochechouart
Interesting places to visit include:
- Opéra Garnier
- Printemps Haussmann
- Folies Bergère
- Galeries Lafayette
- Pigalle Neighborhood
- Church of the Holy Trinity
- Museum of Romantic Life
Tickets and activities worth trying:
District 10: 10th Arrondissement
While this district may not boast as many iconic attractions as the central ones, it offers a more diverse and laid-back vibe. The standout feature here is the network of canals, giving the area a unique charm and a more genuine glimpse into everyday Parisian life.
One of the top attractions is the Canal Saint-Martin, a fantastic spot for a leisurely walk along the water’s edge, where you can take breaks at the charming cafés and bars lining the banks. Additionally, the area is home to two of Paris’s main train stations: Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est.
If you’re looking for cultural diversity, head to Rue Sainte-Marthe and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, filled with ethnic shops and restaurants from around the world.
The four neighborhoods in this district are:
- Quartier Saint-Vincent-de-Paul
- Quartier de la Porte-Saint-Denis
- Quartier de la Porte-Saint-Martin
- Quartier de l’Hôpital-Saint-Louis
Notable places to visit:
- Saint-Quentin Market
- Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul
- Gare du Nord
- Canal Saint-Martin
- Passage Brady
- Gare de l’Est
A leisurely boat tour on Canal Saint-Martin is an excellent way to explore this area from a unique perspective.
District 11: 11th Arrondissement
Stretching from Place de la Bastille (an intersection shared by several districts) to Rue Oberkampf, this area is celebrated for its lively nightlife and youthful energy. The district’s streets are full of bars, clubs, and live music venues that are sure to delight night owls.
Taking a walk through these streets, you’ll also notice many reminders of Paris’s revolutionary history, such as Place de la Bastille and Rue de la Roquette.
The neighborhoods in this district are:
- Quartier de la Folie-Méricourt
- Quartier Saint-Ambroise
- Quartier de la Roquette
- Quartier Sainte-Marguerite
Places of interest you might enjoy:
- Saint-Ambroise Church
- Winter Circus (Cirque d’Hiver)
- Le Bataclan
- Rue Oberkampf
- Belleville Park
- Atelier des Lumières
This district is perfect for those who love to experience local culture in a vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss Rue Oberkampf, where you can discover the best of Parisian nightlife and some fantastic street art.
District 12: 12th Arrondissement
As we move further away from the historical center of Paris, this district stands out for its tranquility and abundant green spaces, such as the Bois de Vincennes or Parc de Bercy. Here, you’ll find historic cemeteries, parks, and even a zoo. It’s the perfect spot for tourists looking to explore a lesser-known, quieter part of the city.
The Bercy neighborhood is a modern cultural hub, home to the AccorHotels Arena, a major venue for concerts and sports events. Additionally, if you’re interested in discovering a more off-the-beaten-path area, visit the Picpus neighborhood and its historic cemetery.
The neighborhoods within this part of Paris include:
- Quartier de Bel-Air
- Quartier de Picpus
- Quartier du Bercy
- Quartier des Quinze-Vingts
Top places to visit in these neighborhoods:
- Bois de Vincennes
- Paris Zoological Park
- Viaduc des Arts
- French Cinematheque
- Opéra Bastille
- Marché d’Aligre
- Palais de la Porte Dorée
- Viaduc d’Austerlitz
Recommended activities:
- Entry to the Paris Zoological Park
- Ticket to the Château de Vincennes
- Classical Music Concert Tickets in Paris Churches
District 13: 13th Arrondissement
The 13th District of Paris is known for its large Asian community, especially in the Quartier de la Gare and the city’s “Chinatown.” Like many Chinatowns in major European cities, there is a wide array of restaurants, supermarkets, and shops offering authentic Asian products.
This area is continually undergoing renewal, with many new buildings, residential zones, and even former factories converted into lofts that attract a younger demographic, particularly around the Bibliothèque François Mitterrand.
The four neighborhoods in this district are:
- Quartier de la Salpêtrière
- Quartier de la Gare
- Quartier Maison-Blanche
- Quartier Croulebarbe
Must-visit locations in this area:
- Bibliothèque François Mitterrand
- Parc de Choisy
- Parc Kellermann
- Chinatown
- Notre-Dame de la Gare Church
- Les Frigos (a former warehouse turned art space)
District 14: 14th Arrondissement
The 14th District of Paris is famous for the iconic Montparnasse Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace, especially the Eiffel Tower. It is one of the few skyscrapers in Paris, and the surrounding area is filled with historic cafés and brasseries, perfect for a morning coffee or an afternoon snack.
You can also visit the Catacombs, a fascinating yet eerie labyrinth of underground tunnels lined with the bones of thousands of Parisians.
For a more tranquil escape, visit Parc Montsouris, a large and picturesque park ideal for a romantic picnic or a quiet stroll.
The neighborhoods you can explore here include:
- Quartier du Montparnasse
- Quartier du Parc-de-Montsouris
- Quartier du Petit-Montrouge
- Quartier de Plaisance
Places to check out in this district:
- Montparnasse Tower
- The Paris Catacombs
- Paris Observatory
- Parc Montsouris
- Montparnasse Cemetery
- Rue Daguerre
- Montparnasse Theatre
- Plaisance Neighborhood
This district is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of breathtaking views, intriguing history, and peaceful green spaces. Be sure to visit Rue Daguerre, a lively street market with plenty of local charm and excellent food options.
District 15: 15th Arrondissement
As we move further out, the districts increase in size, and the 15th is no exception. It is one of the largest and most populated districts in Paris, characterized by its residential areas and a family-friendly atmosphere, with few major monuments and fewer tourists.
The district is filled with parks and green spaces, such as Parc André Citroën, named after the historic Citroën automobile factory that used to be located there. At this park, you can take a ride on the famous Paris Hot Air Balloon, which offers breathtaking views of the city from above, making for unforgettable photo opportunities.
The district is divided into four neighborhoods:
- Quartier Saint-Lambert
- Quartier Necker
- Quartier Grenelle
- Quartier Javel
Recommended places to visit (including up to three museums):
- Parc André Citroën
- Statue of Liberty in France
- Antoine Bourdelle Museum
- Aquaboulevard (water park)
- Pasteur Museum
- Paris Hot Air Balloon
District 16: 16th Arrondissement
The 16th District is renowned for its grand boulevards, extensive green areas like the Bois de Boulogne, and impressive Haussmannian and Art Deco residential buildings. The district is home to many embassies and wealthy families, along with a significant expat community.
One of its highlights is the Parc des Princes, the home stadium of Paris Saint Germain and the French national soccer team. Football fans can visit the PSG museum and even tour the stadium.
The neighborhoods of this district are:
- Quartier d’Auteuil
- Quartier de la Muette
- Quartier de la Porte-Dauphine
- Quartier de Chaillot
Places you should visit include:
- Parc des Princes
- Bois de Boulogne
- Jardin d’Acclimatation
- Stade Roland Garros
- Trocadéro Square
- Modern Art Museum of Paris
- Palais de Tokyo
- Marmottan Monet Museum
- Le Corbusier Foundation
The district is perfect for a blend of cultural visits and leisure activities. Take a walk in the lush Bois de Boulogne or enjoy an afternoon exploring art at the Palais de Tokyo.
District 17: 17th Arrondissement
The 17th District features a mix of modern residential buildings and office spaces, catering to the working class. The Ternes neighborhood is known for its broad avenues, high-end fashion stores, and elegant restaurants, providing a quiet and upscale atmosphere.
In contrast, Plaine-de-Monceaux is home to opulent mansions and stylish buildings. If you visit this area, don’t miss a walk in Parc Monceau, a peaceful and scenic retreat away from the city’s noise.
The Batignolles and Epinettes neighborhoods are popular among young people and have gained recognition over the past few years. They are full of lively cafés, bars, boutiques, and the impressive Martin Luther King Park, which is a must-visit.
With its diverse offerings, the 17th District provides both a glimpse into elegant Parisian living and a more contemporary urban vibe.
District 17: 17th Arrondissement
The neighborhoods of the 17th Arrondissement are:
- Quartier des Ternes
- Quartier de la Plaine-de-Monceaux
- Quartier des Batignolles
- Quartier des Épinettes
Places you can visit:
- Parc Monceau
- Palais des Congrès de Paris
- Saint-Michel des Batignolles Church
- Batignolles Market
- Parc Martin Luther King
- Poncelet Market
District 18: 18th Arrondissement
This district is famous for Montmartre, a neighborhood on a hill that has been a haven for artists for centuries. It’s one of the best areas to stay in Paris due to its charming small shops and picturesque streets perfect for wandering. The area is full of historic cafés and restaurants, always bustling with tourists from morning until night.
One must-see spot is the Basilica of the Sacred Heart (Sacré-Cœur), where you can climb to the dome and enjoy stunning views of the entire city. You shouldn’t miss the Place du Tertre, and catching a cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge is a classic Parisian experience.
The Goutte-d’Or neighborhood has a large African community, while La Chapelle is known for its significant South Asian population.
The neighborhoods here include:
- Quartier des Grandes-Carrières
- Quartier de Clignancourt
- Quartier de la Goutte-d’Or
- Quartier de La Chapelle
Highlights of this district:
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica
- Moulin Rouge
- Place du Tertre
- Saint-Pierre de Montmartre Church
- Wall of Love
- Musée de Montmartre
Exciting activities and tours to consider:
- Tour of Sacré-Cœur and Montmartre
- Audio-guided Visit to Sacré-Cœur in Spanish
- Moulin Rouge Ticket + Féerie Show + Champagne
- Moulin Rouge Ticket + Féerie Show + Dinner
District 19: 19th Arrondissement
This district has undergone significant revitalization in recent decades, drawing many people to its expansive green areas, such as Parc de la Villette. Within the park, you’ll find the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, the Music Museum, and the Zénith de Paris concert hall.
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont offers a different experience with its dramatic landscapes, making it ideal for romantic picnics or leisurely walks. The district’s canals, including l’Ourcq and Saint-Denis, are perfect for bike rides or walks, lined with cafés and restaurants along the banks.
The key neighborhoods here are:
- Quartier de La Villette
- Quartier du Pont-de-Flandre
- Quartier d’Amérique
- Quartier du Combat
Places to explore in the 19th District:
- Parc de la Villette
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
- Grande Halle de la Villette
- Canal Saint-Denis
- Cité de la Musique
- Canal de l’Ourcq
District 20: 20th Arrondissement
The final district of Paris, the 20th, is known for its diverse communities and historic neighborhoods. It’s a lively area filled with artists and musicians, making it a fun and vibrant place to explore.
Make sure to visit Belleville Park to admire its beautiful murals, and take a walk through Père-Lachaise Cemetery, a tranquil and reflective place where many notable figures are buried.
The neighborhoods here include:
- Quartier de Belleville
- Quartier Saint-Fargeau
- Quartier du Père-Lachaise
- Quartier de Charonne
Places to see in this district:
- Belleville Park
- Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix Church
- Père-Lachaise Cemetery
- Théâtre National de la Colline
- Rue Dénoyez (known for its street art)
In the central neighborhoods, you’ll find a concentration of hotels, entertainment options, and restaurants. The areas around the Seine River are also filled with attractions. This guide captures the essential highlights of all the Parisian districts, offering a wealth of experiences for every type of traveler.