Paris, the City of Lights, is full of history and romance. The best way to see it is by exploring its famous landmarks and unique neighborhoods.
This guide will lead you to the most important places in Paris and show you around the different arrondissements (neighborhoods) so you can plan your trip.
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, each with its own personality and appeal. Knowing the arrondissement system will help you find your way around and discover hidden gems.
This guide includes a Paris landmarks map, with details on major attractions in each arrondissement, as well as tips to make your trip unforgettable.
Whether you are planning a family vacation or traveling on your own, the goal is to give you the information you need to make your own itinerary.
This Paris landmarks map will help you find the best attractions, restaurants, and hotels in each area of the city.
Let’s explore the best places to visit in Paris and learn about the city’s fascinating history!
Understanding the Paris Arrondissement System
Paris is broken up into 20 neighborhoods called arrondissements. They’re arranged in a clockwise spiral, starting from the Louvre. If you understand the system, you can easily plan your trip and find your way around the city.
The Basics of Arrondissements
- Each arrondissement has a number, and knowing these numbers helps you understand the city’s layout. The numbers often give you a clue about the location and the feel of the neighborhood.
- The single-digit arrondissements are generally right in the middle of everything, and they’re full of history. These areas are tourist magnets because they’re close to all the big landmarks.
- The higher-numbered arrondissements are where most Parisians live, and they offer a more authentic, less touristy experience. You can really get a feel for daily life in Paris in these districts.
Navigating with Arrondissements
- Look at the street signs. You’ll usually see the arrondissement number listed. You can also find it by looking at the last two digits of the postal code.
- When you plan your itinerary, think about where the arrondissements are. That way, you can cut down on travel time.
- If you pick a hotel in the arrondissement where you want to spend most of your time, you’ll make your sightseeing even easier.
Right Bank, Left Bank, and the Seine River
The Seine River splits Paris into two halves: the Right Bank and the Left Bank.
- The Right Bank is known for its commerce and grand boulevards.
- The Left Bank is where you’ll find the intellectual heart of the city, with its art scene and historic universities.
There are also two islands in the Seine: Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis. Both have important historical sites.
- Île de la Cité is where you’ll find Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte-Chapelle.
- Île Saint-Louis has beautiful 17th-century homes and charming streets.
Exploring the Heart of Paris: Arrondissements 1-4
Paris is divided into twenty “arrondissements,” or districts, that spiral out from the center of the city. The 1st through 4th arrondissements are considered the heart of Paris, and they’re where you’ll find some of the most famous landmarks.
1st Arrondissement: Louvre Museum and Royal History
The 1st arrondissement is home to the Louvre Museum, one of the biggest and most popular museums anywhere. Visit early or late in the day to dodge the biggest crowds.
While you’re in the area, don’t miss Sainte-Chapelle, a stunning Gothic chapel with some incredible stained glass. You can also stroll through Les Halles, a revitalized shopping and dining area that used to be the central market. Finally, take a walk through the Tuileries Garden, a formal garden that connects the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde.
For a different perspective, consider taking a cruise on the Seine River, which will give you views of many of the top attractions.
2nd Arrondissement: Covered Passages and Historic Charm
The 2nd arrondissement is known for its “passages couverts,” or covered arcades. These offer some unique shopping experiences. You can also check out the Sentier district, a historic garment district that’s being revitalized.
Architectural buffs might want to visit the Bourse (Stock Exchange). If you’re looking for a hotel in the area, check out Hotel Edouard VII or Hotel Bachaumont.
3rd & 4th Arrondissements: Le Marais’s Rich Heritage
Le Marais is spread across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements. It’s known for its historic architecture, art galleries, and trendy shops.
Art lovers will want to visit the Picasso Museum, which has a huge collection of his work. If you’re interested in the history of Paris, visit the Musée Carnavalet.
The 4th arrondissement is also home to the Notre Dame Cathedral, which is still being rebuilt after the fire. You’ll also find the Pompidou Center, a modern art museum with a unique architectural style, as well as the tranquil Île Saint-Louis, with its charming streets and ice cream shops. Finally, don’t miss the Place des Vosges, one of the oldest planned squares in Paris, and the Hôtel de Ville, which is Paris’s city hall.
Iconic Landmarks and Cultural Gems: Arrondissements 5-8
Ready to explore some of the most famous and culturally rich areas of Paris? Let’s dive into arrondissements 5 through 8:
5th Arrondissement: The Latin Quarter’s Intellectual Heart
The 5th arrondissement is home to the historic Latin Quarter. Known for its student vibe and the world-renowned Sorbonne University, this area is steeped in history and intellectual energy.
Don’t miss the Panthéon, a stunning neoclassical monument where many famous French figures are buried.
6th Arrondissement: Luxembourg Gardens and Saint-Germain-des-Prés
The 6th arrondissement offers a mix of natural beauty and artistic flair. Here, you’ll find:
- Luxembourg Garden: A gorgeous park with fountains, sculptures, and plenty of space for kids to play.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés: A historic neighborhood famous for its literary cafes and art galleries. Imagine sipping coffee where Hemingway once mused!
- Saint-Sulpice Church: The second-largest church in Paris, boasting impressive architecture and art.
Consider taking a guided tour to fully experience the charm of this area.
7th Arrondissement: Eiffel Tower and Musée d’Orsay
Prepare for iconic views! The 7th arrondissement is where you’ll find:
- The Eiffel Tower: The quintessential symbol of Paris, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city. (Pro tip: Book your tickets well in advance to avoid those super long lines!)
- Musée d’Orsay: Housed in a stunning former railway station, this museum showcases an incredible collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.
- Champ de Mars: A sprawling park that stretches out from the base of the Eiffel Tower, perfect for a picnic or leisurely stroll.
- Bon Marché: A luxury department store for a bit of upscale shopping.
8th Arrondissement: Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
Get ready for grand avenues and triumphant arches in the 8th arrondissement:
- The Arc de Triomphe: A monumental arch that commemorates French military victories. You can climb to the top for another fantastic view of the city.
- Champs-Élysées: One of the most famous avenues in the world, lined with shops, restaurants, and theaters.
- The “Golden Triangle” (Triangle d’Or): An area known for its ultra-luxurious shopping.
- Parc Monceau: A beautiful park with a more relaxed and local feel than some of the other parks in Paris.
Hidden Gems and Local Experiences: Arrondissements 9-12
Beyond the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, Paris has so much more to offer. Here’s a peek into some of the city’s less-touristy, but equally fascinating, neighborhoods.
9th Arrondissement: Opulence and Entertainment
The 9th is all about grandeur and fun. You can’t miss the Palais Garnier (Opera Garnier), a stunning opera house that will take your breath away with its ornate design. Shopaholics will love Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, two of Paris’s most famous department stores. And for a taste of Parisian nightlife, head to Pigalle, home of the iconic Moulin Rouge cabaret. Don’t forget to explore the covered passages for unique shopping experiences.
10th Arrondissement: Canals and Trendy Vibes
The 10th has a cool, hipster vibe. The Canal Saint-Martin is a must-see, with its charming cafes and bars lining the waterway. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Place de la République is a major public square where you can soak in the Parisian atmosphere. You’ll also find two of Paris’s main train stations, Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est, in this arrondissement.
11th & 12th Arrondissements: Local Life and Green Spaces
For a taste of everyday Parisian life, venture into the 11th and 12th. In the 11th, you’ll find Place de la Bastille, a historically significant square, and Oberkampf, a neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife. Art lovers should check out the Atelier des Lumières, a digital art center that offers immersive experiences.
The 12th is a haven for nature lovers. The Proménade Plantée is an elevated park built on a former railway line – a unique and scenic place to walk. For a taste of local flavors, head to Marché d’Aligre, a bustling food market. Bercy Village offers a mix of shopping and entertainment. And if you need a dose of nature, the Bois de Vincennes is a vast park where you can escape the city bustle.
Exploring the Outer Arrondissements: 13-18
While the heart of Paris, with its iconic landmarks, is often the main draw for tourists, the outer arrondissements offer a different, often more authentic, glimpse into Parisian life. Here’s a brief overview:
13th-15th Arrondissements: Modern Architecture and Quiet Charm
These arrondissements, located on the Left Bank, offer a mix of modern architecture and quieter residential areas.
- 13th Arrondissement: Known for its vibrant Asian communities, impressive street art scene, and the charming Butte aux Cailles neighborhood with its village-like atmosphere.
- 14th Arrondissement: Home to the eerie Catacombs, the Montparnasse Cemetery (a final resting place for many famous artists and writers), and the Fondation Cartier, a museum of contemporary art.
- 15th Arrondissement: Features the modern Parc André Citroen, the Montparnasse Tower (offering panoramic views of the city), and the Beaugrenelle Mall for shopping.
16th-18th Arrondissements: Parks, Museums, and Montmartre’s Artistic Spirit
Venturing to the Right Bank, these arrondissements offer a diverse range of attractions, from grand parks and museums to the bohemian atmosphere of Montmartre.
- 16th Arrondissement: Home to the Trocadéro (offering iconic views of the Eiffel Tower), the Palais de Tokyo (a contemporary art museum), the Musée Marmottan Monet, the expansive Bois de Boulogne park, and the Paris Aquarium.
- 17th Arrondissement: Known for the peaceful Batignolles Square and the modern Martin Luther King Park.
- 18th Arrondissement: Dominated by Montmartre, with the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, the Moulin Rouge cabaret, and the sprawling Les Puces Flea Market, a treasure trove of vintage finds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the prettiest place in Paris?
Ah, beauty is in the eye of the beholder, n’est-ce pas? But if you ask me, it’s a toss-up between strolling along the Seine at sunset, gazing at the Eiffel Tower sparkling at night, or getting lost in the vibrant gardens of the Luxembourg Palace. For something a little different, try the view from Sacré-Cœur Basilica overlooking the entire city. Each offers its own unique charm.
What is the best Paris map for tourists?
Honestly, it depends on your style! A good old-fashioned paper map is great for getting an overview and marking points of interest. But for on-the-go navigation, a reliable smartphone app with offline maps is a lifesaver. Google Maps and Citymapper are popular choices, allowing you to navigate the metro and find walking routes seamlessly. Just make sure to download the offline maps before you go, to avoid those pesky roaming charges!
What are the 5 famous monuments in Paris?
Okay, let’s see… Eiffel Tower, of course! The Louvre Museum (home to the Mona Lisa), the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral (even in its current state, it’s iconic), and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Those are definitely up there in terms of fame and historical significance. But honestly, every corner of Paris has its own little piece of history waiting to be discovered.
What are the main landmarks of Paris?
Besides the obvious ones I just mentioned, don’t forget the Champs-Élysées, the Pantheon, the Musée d’Orsay, and the charming Montmartre neighborhood. A good map (as we just discussed!) will help you locate them all and plan your Parisian adventure. Remember to look beyond the big names too – some of the best experiences are stumbling upon hidden gems down quiet side streets.
To Conclude
Paris is a city that’s packed with incredible things to see and do, from its most famous landmarks to the hidden gems you’ll only find in the neighborhoods away from the tourist crowds.
Understanding how the city’s arrondissement system works is key to planning a trip that’s tailored to your own interests and that makes the most of your time.
Each arrondissement has its own unique character and charm, and once you start to explore them, you’ll find you can easily create an itinerary that matches your personal preferences, whether you’re most interested in art, history, food, or nightlife.
Just remember to book your accommodations and tickets to popular attractions in advance, especially if you’re traveling during the high season.
Most of all, relax and embrace the Parisian lifestyle. You’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime in this beautiful and captivating city!