Paris is a true gem of a city. It’s one of the most visited locations on an annual basis by tourists. Even then, there’s so much to see here that even a handful of trips in Paris will leave you wanting to see more and more. This article will talk about four neighborhoods to hang out in. A couple of them might be familiar, while a handful of the locations may end up being complete mysteries to you…until now!
Latin Quarter
The Latin Quarter is bustling with energy. A stone’s throw from Notre Dame, this area in many ways is quintessentially Paris. Long, winding streets with tons of people all enjoying life. You can do very well here to enjoy some delicious food, and also stop to have a drink before continuing with your day. If you’re wanting to purchase a souvenir for yourself or your loved ones, there are plenty of opportunities here to buy a Parisian-themed trinket. Within the Latin Quarter sits the famed La Sorbonne, the Pantheon, Fontaine Saint-Michel, and the famed Shakespeare and Company bookstore (a real treat for those who love literature and historical significance).
Montmartre
Picturesque and stunning, Montmartre sits on a large hill overlooking the city. With Sacre-Coeur at the footsteps of the neighborhood, you should flock here to take in a truly wonderful experience. You can access Montmartre by walking up via a flight of stairs on either side of the neighborhood. Be warned…it’s a bit of a climb. There’s also an automated train car that takes people up without having to walk up the hill. These streets are gorgeous. Buildings are loaded with ivy and flowers. Artists sit in the middle part of the neighborhood — ready to sell you preexisting pieces or draw you right then and there. Of course, there are also plenty of places to eat. You’d do very well to grab a wedge of quiche while sitting at a corner café and people-watching. It’s also easily one of the most Instagrammable parts of Paris from an aesthetics standpoint.
La Goutte d’Or
La Goutte d’Or translates to “The Drop of Gold”. This neighborhood is a bit off the beaten path — though it’s one of the most diverse in all of Paris. Due to rampant French colonialism, a plethora of countries around Africa speak French as the primary language. This has led millions of immigrants from Africa to immigrate to France — specifically Paris. This neighborhood is also referred to as Little Africa. The colorful, busy streets are akin to markets you’d find in Africa. Many of the people living in this neighborhood hail from the likes of Tunisia, Morocco, Mali, Senegal, Algeria, Ivory Coast, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cameroon. You will get authentically delicious food from these places, along with opportunities to buy art, clothing, and other items. Egyptian architecture even exists here in this neighborhood (located in the 18th arrondissement).
Saint Germain des Pres
Saint Germain des Pres is in the 6th arrondissement. It’s another beautiful neighborhood chock-full of eateries and picture opportunities. It was said that F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway would pal around in this neighborhood. The food scene here is classic and opulent. Foodies will love Saint German des Pres, as will practically anyone and everyone. Jardins du Luxembourg is a must-see attraction here. Grab a bottle of wine, some cheese and a baguette, and relax in a shaded area of the park.
