The Marais

Beautifully kept squares, leafy parks with hidden fountains, traditional bistros and boutique shops - if you’re looking for this kind of Parisian romance, The Marais is for you. This area of the city has a colourful history that resonates today with a strong LGBT community and a diverse mix of independent art galleries and specialist stores nestled between aristocratic mansions. Sure, the more affordable, more spacious east of Paris might be where most new bars and clubs are opening, but The Marais will always be one of the best places to stay in Paris. It’s fabulously grand hôtels particuliers (town houses) and old fashioned boulangeries are the very embodiment of Paris. Location wise, it’s ideally situated. Made up of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, The Marais sits on the right bank of the Seine across from Notre Dame. To your left, you’ll find The Louvre, the Tuileries and Hôtel de Ville; to the right are the hip bars of Bastille. And not far away there’s the Pompidou Centre, the magnificent Place des Vosges and the recently opened Musée Picasso. When you’re hungry, make for Breizh Café for heavenly crêpes and galettes, or the wonderfully eccentric Derrière for a modern twist on French cuisine served in a lavish boutique flat.