Guide To Paris 1st Arrondissement

The 1st Arrondissement of Paris is noted for its unique combination of prominent historical and cultural landmarks, stunning parks, and pretty gardens.

There are also shopping streets and neighbourhoods ranging from flea markets to expensive couture. Whether you’re visiting the City of Lights for the first time or have been here many times before, this bustling district is one you’ll want to return to.

The 1st Arrondissement comprises the western end of the Île de la Cité and is primarily located on the right bank of the Seine.

It is one of Paris’ oldest neighborhoods, with parts going back to 52 B.C. For centuries, the 1st Arrondissement was home to France’s most illustrious monarchs.

READ MORE: Guide To Paris Arrondissements

They erected their beautiful palaces and superb gardens here, resulting in the glorious architecture and lovely parks and gardens that we see today.

Today, le Premier, or the 1st Arrondissement in French, is jam-packed with some of the city’s most spectacular attractions.

This district is home to the magnificent Louvre Museum, the Musée de l’Orangerie (Orangerie Museum), which houses Monet’s massive water lily paintings, old churches with stunning stained glass such as Sainte-Chapelle, exquisite jewellers around Place Vendôme, and French designer Coco Chanel’s favourite hot chocolate spot, the Angelina tea room.

The 1st Arrondissement is also home to rare treasures such as 19th-century shopping arcades and attractive market streets.

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There are also cool jazz clubs and wine bars to experience the Parisian nightlife. If you love the winter holidays, you’ll also find Paris’ best and largest Christmas market.

If you’re heading to Paris soon and want to see as much of the 1st Arrondissement as possible, we’ve got you covered.

We have some fantastic options for where to eat and stay, as well as must-see sites. In this helpful guide, learn more about Paris’s 1st Arrondissement.

Guide To Paris 1st Arrondissement

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Things To Do In 1st Arrondissement

Whether you’re in the mood for art, history, a walk in the park or some shopping – there are plenty of places to capture your fancy in the 1st Arrondissement of Paris.

Musée du Louvre (Louvre Museum)

The Louvre is the largest and most famous museum of art in the world.

In addition to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the most renowned painting in the world, the Louvre houses a bevy of other treasures, including Egyptian mummies, medieval tapestries, a luxurious 19th-century apartment of Emperor Napoleon III, Greek and Roman statues and Italian Renaissance masterpieces by Titian and Raphael.

Buy your ticket online here.

Tuileries Gardens

Located in the heart of Paris, the Jardin des Tuileries is one of the city’s most beautiful and beloved green spaces. Lie back in one of the park’s green steel chairs and enjoy the warm weather.

Stop for a croissant and café crème at Paul’s, located near the Arc de Triomphe, or a glass of wine and an afternoon snack in the tree-shaded grove.

If you’re in town in November or December, don’t miss out on the city’s famous Christmas market.

READ MORE: 13 Interesting Facts About Tuileries Gardens

Rue Montorgueil Market Street

As absolute Parisian foodie heaven, Rue Montorgueil provides an excellent opportunity to sample some of the city’s finest culinary offerings.

Along the way, you’ll see little cafes and brasseries selling everything from cheese to chocolate to fruit and vegetable stands to fish markets and wine shops. The oldest patisserie in Paris, Stohrer, is among the many places you’ll discover in this neighborhood.

Sainte-Chapelle chapel

With its 15 medieval stained glass windows in jewel-like hues, Sainte Chapelle is one of Paris’ most charming locations. There are 1,113 biblical images on the glass panels if you take a close look.

If you’re looking for a Parisian church with an eye-popping colour palette of blues and crimsons in addition to golds, greens, and purples, then this is it.

The chapel was built in 1248 by Louis “The Pious” IX of France and is now a superb example of French High Gothic architecture at its finest.

Pont Neuf Bridge (oldest bridge in Paris)

Pont Neuf, a UNESCO World Heritage monument, is the oldest standing bridge spanning the Seine in Paris, France.

It is located on the western end of the Île de la Cité, the island in the middle of the river that was the birthplace of Paris, back when it was known as Lutetia.

The 232-meter long Pont Neuf spans the Seine River and connects the first to sixth arrondissements.  

Where To Eat in 1st Arrondissement

Travellers say that when it comes to food, the 1st Arrondissement doesn’t disappoint. Here where you can sit down for a meal in between exploring the area.

Budget

Caroussel du Louvre Food Court (the shopping mall at 99 Rue de Rivoli) – This area has stalls providing international cuisine; some are pretty good, and the prices are reasonable. You may access the food court by taking the elevator from the mall’s ground level to the mezzanine level.

Midrange

Champeaux (north end of Les Halles shopping centre) – A bright and airy modern brasserie with lively service, Champeaux serves elegant interpretations of classic pub fare such as burgers, steaks, cheese souffle, salads, chicken, fish, and sweets. Stop in for a drink, a little snack, or a classic three-course meal.

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Luxury

Cafe Marly (93 Rue de Rivoli) – Tucked away among the Louvre’s arcades, Cafe Marly offers terrific views of the Pyramid and gardens from the patio.

Service is continuous, with upscale brasserie food. Reservations are almost always brilliant. Three dishes plus wine and coffee will set you back at least €100 per person.

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Where To Stay in 1st Arrondissement

Whether you’re on a budget or willing to spend for a luxury stay in Paris, there is something for you from the many fabulous hotels in the 1st Arrondissement.

Budget

Hôtel du Cygne – Hôtel du Cygne, located in a 17th-century townhouse, is well-known for its excellent customer service and clean, comfortable rooms. The hotel is located in the heart of Paris and has a 24-hour reception and free WiFi.

Check out the hotel rates here.

Midrange

Normandy Le Chantier – The Normandy Le Chantier, located near the Louvre Museum and the Jardin des Tuileries, welcomes travellers with bright, large, and comfortable rooms.

The hotel is well-known for its excellent customer service and delectable breakfast buffet. If you’re willing to splurge a little, Normandy Le Chantier is well worth it.

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Check out the hotel rates here.

Luxury

Maison Albar Hotels Le Pont Neuf – Maison Albar Hôtels Le Pont-Neuf, located within walking distance of the Louvre Museum in Paris, offers luxury amenities such as an indoor pool, hot tub, and spa centre.

Rooms are stylishly furnished and decorated but homey. There is also a restaurant on-site where guests may enjoy classic French cuisine.

Check out the hotel rates here.