Want Hotel Accommodation In Paris France? Where to Stay in Paris - A Guide to The Second Arrondissement

The Second Arrondissement of Paris

You're nearly there - Paris, France's glistening capital city! You can hardly wait to get there. You've gotten your flights to Paris, France , now you are assessing some wonderful sounding specials on a number of Paris hotels . What neighborhood you are staying in is always an important consideration for accommodation in Paris, France even if you are looking at hotels in Paris city centre.  Here's a guide to Paris's 2nd arrondissement so you can learn more about whether this area of Paris is where you want to be!


It is unlikely that you will be spending alot of time in the Second arroondissement as a tourist, but if you choose accommodation in this here, you will be in the pulsing heart of Paris's financial and working center. Home to the Bourse (stock exchange) and the CAC 40 index of France's top listed companies , the 2nd arrondissement is also widely noted for its prospering  fashion and journalism industries, as well as its general atmosphere of business.


What To Know About The Second Arrondissement :

The Good :

You will hardly spot any tourists here, meaning that the people-watching will be strictly French : Parisian businessmen going to lunch, stressed traders dashing to work, journalists meeting sources over tea for the next big story . Travelers who stay here will also be close to the wonderful nineteenth century "galleries," a tradition when the Duke of Orleans decided to rent out his garden to shops in the late 18th . These "galleries," like early shopping malls, have glass windows and tiled floors, are still in operation now . Visit for a nostalgic and enchanting look at Paris's nineteenth-century past.

Here's The Cons:

This isn't an especially with-it part of Paris by any means, and while there are lots of places for lunch in the area , geared toward those with an expense account, nightlife doesn't exist . However, with the Marais in the fourth arrondissement only a few minutes away, there's not much to worry about. In addition, near the eastern end of the district, you may run into a few prostitutes looking to ply their trade, but don't worry - it's safe, if seedy, and nevertheless you're likely to encounter far fewer than in similar sections like Rue St. Denis or the Pigalle area.

What To Visit:

If you are interested in finances , visit the Bourse, or Stock Exchange, for a look at Paris's economic heart. Or check out the Galleries - the Gallerie Vivienne is regarded the best-preserved, with geniune and gorgeous nineteenth-century decor, a splendid mosaic floor, and elegantly upscale shops. In contrast, the Passage Choiseul is more "authentic," catering to business folks on their way to work, and selling newspapers and offering services like shoe-shining to frantically busy traders at the nearby Bourse.

Where To Go To Eat :

Cafe Etienne Marcel, on Rue Etienne Marcel, is a stylish Costes brothers joint - less costly than most of their others - with a menu to match. Or have a drink or two at Harry's New York Bar on Rue Danou, allegedly the birthplace of the Bloody Mary, and a hangout of Hemmingway. While Harry's isn't cheap by any means, it's nevertheless a wonderful hangout for those who want the elegance and decadence of Art Deco bohemian expatriate life. And, of course, a bloody Mary mixed to perfection.

Where To Shop :

Brentano's, on Avenue de L'Opera offers an excellent selection of English-language and art books. And, of course, the Galleries are filled with fascinating stores. Wander in and out of a few of the delightful galleries, looking at the many wonderful shops on offer, and take a look at buying boutique clothes, antiquarian books and far more at all of them.

Paris Hotels: Where to Stay in Paris - A Guide to The First Arrondissement

You're nearly there - Paris, France's crown jewel and capital city! You can hardly wait to start your journey. You've gotten your inexpensive flight for your trip to Paris, France , now you're trying to decide on some wonderful sounding offers on hotels and other accommodation in Paris . Where you are staying in the city is always an important consideration for hotel accommodation in Paris, France even if you are looking at hotels in Paris city centre.  Here's a guide to Paris's 1st arrondissement so you can learn more about whether this part of Paris is where you want to be!
The First Arrondissement of Paris

Paris's first arrondissement is filled with the sort of elegance and grandeur that centuries' worth of tourists have imagined when thinking of Paris . Wide boulevards, fashionable shopping , and well maintained parks overlooking the smoothly flowing Seine River are all to be found in this neighborhood, a district mainly of office space and tourist sites. Les Halles, Paris's unusual take on a shopping center , can be found here as well.

What To Expect If You Are Staying In The First Arrondissement :

The Good :

Spending time in the First has many benefits. When you walk under the nineteenth-century arches of the Rue de Rivoli arcade, you will be following in the footsteps of generations of dandies and duchesses: vanished citizens of Paris of long ago . You will be near some of Paris's most remarkable tourist sites - the Tuileries garden to Chatelet -site of the Comedie Francaise, where Moliere once produced his plays - to the world-class Louvre . And the shopping, on the elegant Faubourg Saint Honore, is unparalleled !

Why You Don't Want To Stay :

While daytime in the First provides a visitor with access to some of Paris's finest sights at a few moments' walk, the business-like character of the area means that nightlife, by contrast, is limited within the arrondissement. So unless you go to the Les Halles/St. Denis area there's not much to do. Les Halles/St. Denis's low brow pleasures may appear slightly seedy to those over the age of twenty-one (that said, the area bordering the Les Halles mall is consistently nice - a fine place to stop after watching a film in Les Halles's enormous cinema, which presents many US and British movies in their original languages. But avoid going towards Rue St. Denis/Blvd. Sebastopol unless you're consciously seeking that sort of milieu.) What's more, this area can get extremely touristy - especially around the otherwise lovely Rue de Rivoli.  So watch your handbag and control your buying impulse for souvenirs until you're a bit further off the beaten path.

What To See:
Sites abound here. Take a stroll down the Faubourg Saint-Honore, where nearly every top fashion house of the world has a store . Visit the Louvre or Tuileries Gardens near the Place de Concorde, see a play at the Comedie Francaise in the Chatelet area.

Eating Places :
Finding untouristy food is difficult in this area, but finding excellent desserts is not. Angelina, on Rue de Rivoli, has lost some of its legendary elegance, but the aging-grande-dame feel of the place makes the yellowed mirrors and creaky chandeliers worth seeing on their own merits. Plus, their famously rich hot chocolate and Mont Blanc desserts are among the best in Paris. For a more current hotspot, Cafe Marley in the Louvre offers views not only of the museum's art, but also of Paris's current celebrity scene. For good food, the area right around Les Halles has a number of good brasseries, but, as said earlier, the area closer to Rue St. Denis and Sebastopol has a slightly sketchier character - not at all dangerous, but nevertheless unsavory.

Where To Shop :
If the exclusive shopping of the Faubourg Saint Honore is a bit out of your budget , go to the Les Halles mall. A surprisingly beautiful, art nouveau-inspired underground city (complete with street names, a swimming pool, park, and more), Les Halles proves that even Paris's malls have a particular Parisian flair. While the area around the mall is useful for really cheap (think 3-5 euro) clothes and shoes, the mall itself has much higher quality items at pretty good prices.

Looking For Deals On Accommodation In Paris France? A Guide To Selecting A Paris Arrondissement

You can't wait to leave for Paris, the City of Lights .  You've gotten your flights to Paris, France , now you are trying to decide between some great looking specials on hotel accommodation for Paris, France. Here's a guide to Paris's neighborhoods or arrondissements so you can learn more about what neighborhoods in Paris the hotels you are considering are in . It'll help you decide where in Paris you want to be and where you don't!  

The dream of vacationing in Paris is an extravagant one. It's quite easy to begin picturing indulgent living - canopy beds, crystal chandeliers, pure silk sheets - before coming to terms with the reality of budget constraints. Paris is an expensive city. And living like Marie Antoinette isn't feasible for most people . Furthermore, Paris is a diverse city. It has a wealth of different arrondissements and neighborhoods , and areas.  Some that might suit a married couple and four kids might not work for the trendy young single person , backpackers , or the retired couple celebrating their fifty-year anniversary. So before you finally select which Paris hotels near the Eiffel Tower are for you , or which 5 star hotels in Paris you like , or which Paris hotels in the Latin Quarter strike your fancy , you should also consider the ambiance and milieu of the neighborhood you're about to stay in. This is really important if you are to select the best hotel in Paris for you and your family . Remember it'll be your home away from home during your stay in Paris and you'll want it to be a good fit. So consider neighborhood along with price, safety and convenience as you make your final Paris hotel or apartment decision. Neighborhood is always an important consideration for hotel accommodation in Paris, France even if you are looking at hotels in Paris city centre.

A Rough Guide To Price

By and large, good Paris hotels on the Right Bank in elegant districts like the 8th and 16th arrondissements are the most expensive of any hotels anywhere . On the left bank, prices are generally lower. Of course there are exceptions, the upscale artsy Boulevard St. Germain area is also rather expensive , though not as expensive as the equivalent Right Bank hotels . Less expensive areas include more residential, student-y , or less central arrondissements. Boulevard St. Michel - though perhaps congested , is pretty cheap , though not as much so as Montparnasse. These two areas are good for finding cheap accommodation in Paris. Other neighborhoods that are generally on the bottom end of the price scale, but that aren't too dangerous to stay in , include Montmartre, which is low-key, artsy-hippie, and relaxed, the studenty, though perhaps a tad touristy, Rue Mouffetard, and the residential Portes d'Orleans/Alesia area. These areas aren't close to attractions like the Eiffel Tower, but it's easy to get around on Paris's Metro system or through Paris's Velib bike-rental system.

Your Guide To The Star Rating System For Paris France Accommodation

The concept behind the star rating system is mathematical - not a value-judgement. In France, a standardized system of star-ranking measures not the quality of the hotel but the quantity of its amenities. The 1 - four star scale (there are no 5-star hotels in France) is based on twenty-two criteria about the square footage, features, and amenities, and doesn't reflect on the "charm," "niceness," or lack thereof. So do your research ; don't assume stars automatically mean good, or that a hotel with only one star is no good - it could be a lot more charming than its "four-star" a hotel with four stars.

Choosing A Neighborhood

In general, the first , eighth, sixteenth , and seventh arrondissements are the most "elegant," with the 7th by and large more aristocratic, residential, and refined, and the eighth , first and 16th more opulent, catering to businesspeople and government officials. The sixth is also upscale, but in an artsier, more bohemian fashion. For young, trendy travelers , the Marais (3rd and 4th) is the best place to be, although for student travelers on a budget Montmartre (eighteenth - but be sure you're not in the less safe district of Barbes-Rochechouard or the seedy Pigalle, also bordering the 18th) is a great bet, as is the slightly more picturesque Latin Quarter (fifteenth ). Quiet residential arrondissements like the thirteenth , twelfth , fourteenth , fifteenth , and 17th are prime areas for families looking rent out a Paris apartment and experience "neighborhood life." Seedier areas include bits of the 2nd, the 9th, and outlying areas - be sure you're not in Barbes-Rochechouard, on Rue St. Denis (unless you're low down near Les Halles), or in Pigalle or Clichy - these are all seedier , or even dangerous  neighborhoods. Staying in the banlieus - suburbs- is not suggested .

Dijon, A Day Trip From Paris : A Must Paris Day Trip For Gourmets

Cheap trips to Paris start with getting to France inexpensively - in other words getting cheap flights to Paris! Once you've gotten your cheap international airline ticket to Paris, France or gotten that fantastic Paris, France travel or vacation or hotel deal, you can take a deep sigh of relief. Now you are ready to really have fun and plan and explore. You'll soon see why Paris is the world's top tourist destination. Dijon, a day trip from Paris, is one such jewel in France's tourism crown.



Most Americans and Canadians are familiar with the funny Grey Poupon mustard commercials. When it comes to Dijon mustard, Grey Poupon is probably the most recognizable brand out there. However, there is much about where this mustard originates from that people are unaware of. Beyond the influences of catchy condiment advertising is a region of refined culture and history.



Situated between France's border with Switzerland and Paris , is the cozy little city of Dijon. It was here that combinations of white wine and grape juice produced the uniquely flavored mustard of the same name . Naturally, you will want to grab an original jar of Dijon to take back home, but what else can be seen here?


Dijon's Architecture



Just like many neighboring regions of France, Dijon claims some inspiring architecture as expressed through its churches. Often referred to as the "town of a hundred spires," this quaint locale is home to a collection of churches and other religious buildings. Among these inspired structures is the La Chapelle de Elus, or Chapel of the Elected Representatives. Construction on the Chapelle began in 1738. A tour of its interior presents an array of interesting designs. The intricately sculptured walls provide an air of inspiration as you make your way through the lightly colored halls.


Shopping in Dijon



Dijon offers great shopping , a wonderful place to look for presents to give to your friends and family after returning from your France vacation. In Dijon , you can find one of the famous Galeries Lafayette department stores. Located at 41, rue Liberté, this massive retailer offers a variety of items. The La Toison d'Or is a second option for shoppers. There are also wonderful cafes, upscale boutiques and tempting chocolate shops. Dijon only adds to the incentive to find cheap flights to Paris, France so that you can spend more of your vacation dollars on shopping and gourmet treats!


Tour Philippe le Bon



The Tour Philippe le Bon, or "Good Philip's Tower" stands at 46 meters and encircles the Dukes of Burgundy. The oldest portions of this tower date back to the 14th century. A trip up to the top of the tower provides visitors with a breathtaking picture taking opportunity. All around, the town of Dijon is before you. Buildings range from the mundane to the dramatically pointed spires and gently curved domes of churches. Altogether creating an interesting skyline. The ancient palace was demolished then later rebuilt in the seventeenth century, and currently is Dijon's town hall. Many of the palace's significant rooms, such as the vast reception halls and grand kitchens, were transformed into fine art museums.


Wine With Your Dijon?


Dijon, the capital of Burgundy lies in close proximity to the famous vineyards of Burgundy. Wine lovers must visit the Cote de Nuits and the Chateau du Clos de Vougeot. The wine cellars here date back to the 12th century, and when it is warm outside, these Burgundian wine cellars provide a lovely, cool tour after roaming outside, taking in the beautifully vibrant vineyards. Of course, no tour to Dijon would be complete without the obligatory wine tasting as you explore the cellars.

The Route des Grand Crus, or "Road of the Great Wines" runs through this area. Most famous of the wine produced are excellent red wines. As you can see, getting your Paris hotels selected and cheap flights to Paris, France in hand is just the beginning, Dijon and the rest of France beckon!

Guide To Paris France Hotel Pricing - Picking A Paris Arrondissement (Neighborhood) & Finding A Travel Deal

After you get your cheap flights to Paris, France, your next decision is what Paris hotel deal to look for. Of course you should pick your hotel for price, safety, and convenience, but you also should consider the flavor of the neighborhood you're about to stay in. Believe it or not it'll be a major part of your Paris France vacation. So make sure it is a comfortable fit. Sometimes you can save more if you combine your Paris airfare with a hotel in Paris – a Paris vacation package – but even then you need to consider where the hotel is located in Paris. 

Location Determines Paris Hotel Prices:

By and large, nice Right Bank Hotels in elegant districts like the 8th and 16th arrondissements are the most expensive of any hotels you can find. On the Left Bank, though, the upscale artsy Boulevard St. Germain area is also rather pricey, though perhaps not to the same extent. Less expensive areas include more residential, student oriented or out-of the way arrondissements. Boulevard St. Michel - though perhaps over-crowded, is rather inexpensive. But even cheaper is Montparnasse. Other neighborhoods that are generally on the bottom end of the price scale, but that aren't worryingly dangerous, include Montmartre, which is low-key, artsy-hippie, and relaxed. A bit more student oriented, though perhaps also a bit touristy, describes Rue Mouffetard, and the residential Portes d'Orleans/Alesia area. These areas tend to be a bit far for a walk to notable monuments like the Eiffel Tower. If you don’t want to walk, just take the Metro or rent a bike through the Velib bike-rental system. 

It is best to familiarize yourself more with the charms of each Paris neighborhood since in many ways Paris can be as varied as France itself. Then when after you have gotten your cheap flights to Paris for your France travels, you will know a great Paris hotel deal when you spot it!

Looking forward to planning your trip to Paris? Visit our Paris website by clicking here if you want to find a budget guide to Paris, including ways to get cheap airfares to Paris and insider tips to experiencing Paris like a Parisian.