1st Arrondissement Travel Guide

Paris

A narrow street lined with historic buildings, a prominent church spire, and flags.
A multi-tiered fountain with statues, surrounded by trees and historic buildings.
A statue of an angel on a column with a building in the background.
A tall, ornate tower with intricate architectural details and a clock face.
A historic building with a large dome and a clock tower.

Few urban districts in Europe have a higher concentration of artistic masterpieces and breathtaking architecture than this neighbourhood.

Visit stunning palaces and superb museums, pass long afternoons in lush gardens and view incredible artwork from Monet, Michelangelo and da Vinci, all within the bounds of Paris’s 1st Arrondissement.

In the heart of Paris on the northern banks of the Seine River, the 1st Arrondissement is easy and enjoyable to explore on foot. Most sites are within a short walk of each other. Stroll through sprawling gardens and scenic narrow streets.

Escape the crowds of busy Châtelet metro station and walk for 10 minutes northwest to the Louvre Museum. Inside a lavish 12th-century palace, the collection consists of approximately 35,000 pieces. You won’t see it all in a day, so do advance planning to be sure you locate your favourites. Find masters by Rembrandt, Michelangelo and of course the Mona Lisa by da Vinci. The gallery is open every day except Tuesday. Enter through the 69-foot-tall (21-metre) glass pyramid.

Follow a morning inside with a walk enjoying the fresh, fragrant air of Jardin des Tuileries that neighbours the Louvre. As well as beautiful arrangements of tulips and roses, see sculptures here by Rodin and Giacometti. Continue on to reach the Musée de l’Orangerie. The highlight of this old gallery is a set of water lily paintings by Claude Monet. A funfair comes to the park during the Fête des Tuileries in July and August each year. Race on bumper cars and play games of skill.

Positioned in the centre of the 1st Arrondissement, Le Palais Royalis another grand site. Home to Louis XIV in his youth, this 17th-century neoclassical palace conceals an internal garden of bright flowers and shimmering fountains.

Enjoy an excellent choice of cuisine here whether you shop at the diverse fresh food stalls at Rue Montorgueil or indulge in one of the many fine-dining restaurants. In spite of the prime position of the 1st Arrondissement, you can expect to find a range of hotels perfect for all budgets.

Stay near popular 1st Arrondissement attractions

The Louvre Museum's courtyard with the iconic glass pyramid.

Louvre Museum

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Home to the Mona Lisa, and instantly recognizable by its glass pyramid, this landmark has vast collections of well-known art from France and around the world.
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Things to do

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Where to stay in 1st Arrondissement

Find the best 1st Arrondissement areas for the activities you enjoy most.
The Louvre Museum's courtyard with the iconic glass pyramid.

Paris City Center

Louvre Museum and Notre-Dame are a few top attractions in Paris City Center. Hop around the city on the metro at Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre Metro Station or Louvre - Rivoli Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, stunning cathedral and charming cafes.

A historic building with a symmetrical facade, a central courtyard, and well-manicured hedges.

Marais

Travellers love Marais for its popular shops, and you can see more of Paris by jumping on the metro at Saint-Paul Station or Saint-Sebastien - Froissart Station. You might spend time checking out top sights like Picasso Museum and Place des Vosges.

A historic building with a large garden and people sitting and walking around.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Known for its charming cafes and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Check out top attractions like Marche rue de Buci and Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, and jump on the metro at Mabillon Station or Saint-Germain-des-Pres Station to see more of the city.

A statue of a woman holding a child in a park with a large building in the background.

6th Arrondissement

Known for its beautiful gardens and charming cafes, there's plenty to explore in 6th Arrondissement. Check out top attractions like Luxembourg Gardens and Marche Saint-Germain, and jump on the metro at Saint-Sulpice Station or Mabillon Station to see more of the city.

A historic building with large columns and a statue, surrounded by people.

7th Arrondissement

7th Arrondissement is highly notable for its charming cafes, and you might want to visit top sights like Eiffel Tower and Rodin Museum. See more of Paris by jumping on the metro at Solferino Station or Assemblee Nationale Station.

1st Arrondissement Travel Guide