See Also: Paris Neighborhood Map
Paris is divided into 20 arrondissements, or administrative districts, each with its own unique character and charm. The arrondissements are arranged in a clockwise spiral, starting from the city center and spiraling outwards towards the periphery.
The arrondissement system in Paris was established in 1795 during the French Revolution, as a way to divide the city into administrative districts. Before that, Paris was divided into parishes, which had their own administrative and judicial systems. The arrondissements were intended to provide a more unified system of governance for the rapidly growing city.
Originally, Paris was divided into 12 arrondissements, each with its own mayor and council. In 1860, the city expanded its borders to include the surrounding towns and villages, and eight new arrondissements were added, bringing the total to 20.
The arrondissements were designed to be roughly equal in size and population, and each is assigned a number from 1 to 20, with the 1st arrondissement located at the center of the city. The system has proven to be a useful way of organizing the city for administrative, political, and cultural purposes.
Today, each arrondissement has its own council and mayor, who are responsible for local issues such as public transportation, waste management, and cultural events. The arrondissements also play an important role in the city’s political life, with each arrondissement electing representatives to the Paris City Council.
The first four arrondissements (1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th) are located in the heart of the city, known as the “Right Bank” or “Rive Droite”, and contain many of Paris’ most famous landmarks, including the Louvre Museum, the Tuileries Gardens, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. These arrondissements are also home to some of the city’s most upscale shopping and dining destinations. The popular Marais district is spread across the 3rd and 4th arrondissements.
The next three arrondissements (5th, 6th, and 7th) are located on the Left Bank, or “Rive Gauche”, and are known for their intellectual and artistic heritage. The Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissement is home to many of the city’s top universities, while the 6th and 7th arrondissements are home to some of the city’s most famous museums, including the Musée d’Orsay and the Rodin Museum. The Eiffel Tower is located in the 7th arrondissement.
The 8th and 9th arrondissement (back on the Right Bank) are known for their grand boulevards and luxury shopping, including the famous Champs-Élysées avenue. This area was once a fashionable residential district for the wealthy elite and is home to many opulent buildings and landmarks.
The remaining arrondissements (10th-20th) are located on the outskirts of the city and are known for their more diverse populations and vibrant street life. These areas are home to some of Paris’ best outdoor markets, as well as many trendy cafes, bars, and clubs. The 10th and 11th arrondissements, in particular, have become popular among young Parisians and expats in recent years.
Our Favorite Paris Hotels
• 5-Star: Four Seasons
• 4-Star: Grand Powers
• 3-Star: Cler • Chopin
• Cheap: Welcome Paris
• For couples: Relais Christine
• For families: Fraser Suites
• Near Eiffel Tower: Pullman
• Louvre: Hotel du Louvre
• Notre Dame: Saint Severin
• Montmartre: Hotel Des Arts
• Gare du Nord/Gare de l’Est: Hotel Hor• Best Hotel in the 1st: Mandarin Oriental
• Best Hotel in the 2nd: Park Hyatt
• Best Hotel in the 3rd: Le Pavillon de la Reine
• Best Hotel in the 4th: Hôtel Bourg Tibourg
• Best Hotel in the 5th: Saint Séverin
• Best Hotel in the 6th: Relais Christine
• Best Hotel in the 7th: Le Cinq Codet
• Best Hotel in the 8th: Four Seasons
• Best Hotel in the 9th: Maison Souquet
• Best Hotel in the 10th: Midnight Hotel
• Best Hotel in the 11th: Hotel Fabric
• Best Hotel in the 12th: Hôtel Parisianer
• Best Hotel in the 13th: Hôtel Henriette
• Best Hotel in the 14th: Lenox Montparnasse
• Best Hotel in the 15th: Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel
• Best Hotel in the 16th: Saint James Paris
• Best Hotel in the 17th: Le Tsuba Hotel
• Best Hotel in the 18th: Le Relais Montmartre
• Best Hotel in the 19th: The ReMIX Hotel
• Best Hotel in the 20th: Hôtel Comete Paris
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