Guide To Paris 2nd Arrondissement

Paris’ 2nd district is one of the city’s more compact areas, covering a section of central Paris on the right bank of the River Seine. The Louvre and the Tuileries gardens, two well-known Paris landmarks, are also within walking distance.

One of Europe’s financial hubs, the 2nd arrondissement of Paris houses the Bourse (stock exchange) and the CAC 40 index, which you hear or read about in the news. The fields of journalism and fashion are also well-represented in this part of town.

The 2nd arrondissement of Paris, despite its proximity to the heart of Paris, is home to some of the city’s most exciting sights, which, unfortunately, many visitors miss.

One of them is the stunningly well-preserved medieval tower where a horrific assassination of the monarch took place.

Related Read:

• Guide To Paris Arrondissements
• Guide To Paris 1st Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 3rd Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 4th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 5th Arrondissement

Many tourists flock to the 2nd arrondissement of Paris for its famous permanent market area, charming ancient covered alleyways and trendy stores from established and up-and-coming fashion houses.

Despite its numerous notable attractions, this region is still under-appreciated by many visitors. Most visitors to Paris may have missed it entirely since they were too busy taking in nearby tourist hotspots like the Centre Georges Pompidou and the Les Halles mall.

However, since visitors have long overlooked Paris’ 2nd Arrondissement, it is a peaceful and fashionable area popular with locals. Notre Dame, the museums on the Seine, and Le Marais are all within walking distance.

The 2nd is a superb location not only because of its closeness to notable attractions. New hotels, restaurants, and cocktail bars have opened in the area over the past years, elevating it to the status of a fashionable destination unto itself.

If you’re planning a vacation to Paris soon, consider making this booming area your home base. Here’s how to get the most out of your time in Paris’ 2nd arrondissement.

Guide To Paris 2nd Arrondissement

 Related Read:

• Guide To Paris 6th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 7th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 8th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 9th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 10th Arrondissement

Things To Do In 2nd Arrondissement

Nearly all of the area’s major tourist sites are easily accessible via these transportation hubs. The Marais, Les Halles, and the Louvre-Tuileries sector are all close enough to walk to other parts of the city.

Palais Brongniart

The Palais Brongniart, located in the heart of the 2nd Arrondissement, is the most well-known structure in the district. It served as the stock exchange from 1826 to 1998 when it was transferred to a new location. In recent years, it has served as a venue for seminars and conferences.

The Rue Montorgueil Neighbourhood

Rue Montorgueil is a bustling pedestrian area in the 2nd arrondissement. This marble-paved pedestrian area is home to some of the most sought-after bakeries, cafes, markets and restaurants in the city.

This neighbourhood exemplifies how even in the heart of Paris, you can find the small-town charm. Also, it shows how Paris manages to be both modern and traditional at the same time. For example, there are still family-owned cheese shops and brasseries.

La Tour Jean-Sans-Peur

History enthusiasts will find this medieval-era fortification to be particularly fascinating. The Duc d’Orleans is supposed to have been assassinated here, making the area famous. For a modest price, visitors to Paris can ascend the Tower to get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding areas.

Bibliothèque Nationale de France

The Bibliothèque Nationale de France, located in Paris, is France’s national library. All French publications are here, as is a wealth of historical material.

This library is a must-visit for bibliophiles or admirers of historic libraries with its impressive collection and stunning interior. Securing a Pass BnF “Lecture/Culture” or 1-day reader’s card may be worth the money and effort.

Passage des Panoramas

Montmartre Boulevard and Saint-Marc Street are positioned on each side of the Passage des Panoramas, the oldest of the covered passages in Paris.

As one of the first covered commercial alleys in Europe, it is an important place in the history of the Parisian philatelic community.

In many ways, it was a precursor to both the nineteenth-century city gallerias and the covered suburban and city retail malls of the twentieth century.

Related Read:

• Guide To Paris 11th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 12th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 13th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 14th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 15th Arrondissement

Where To Eat in 2nd Arrondissement

The 2nd arrondissement has grown in popularity as a tourist destination, in part because of the influx of hip restaurants that have opened in the area. While you’re exploring the neighbourhood, stop by one of these restaurants for a delicious meal.

Budget

Le Dénicheur (4 Rue Tiquetonne) – One of the numerous unusual and avant-garde establishments on Rue Tiquetonne is Le Dénicheur. You can eat and browse for antiques and jewellery simultaneously in this establishment.

The restaurant has a collection of antiques on display, as well as delicious French and Spanish food that’s very affordable.

Midrange

Frenchie (5 Rue du Nil) – The Michelin starred Frenchie is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a fantastic lunch in a casual setting.

The welcoming, friendly personnel at this quaint French restaurant are the perfect antidote to any preconceived notions you may have about French eating.

Are you avoiding meat? Looking for gluten-free options? It’s not a problem at Frenchie, as their menu caters to various dietary preferences. It’s imperative, though, that you reserve a table in advance.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Resto / Bar à Vins / Caviste (@frenchieruedunil)

Luxury

Aux Lyonnais (32 rue Saint-Marc) – Aux Lyonnais, a Parisian café run by Alain Ducasse since 2002, specializes in Lyon-style food.

It first opened its doors in 1890 in honor of the Lyonnais bBouchon Known for his love of traditional French bistro fare, celebrity chef Alain Ducasse brought this venerable establishment back to life while preserving its Lyonnaise specialties.

Where To Stay in 2nd Arrondissement

If you want a more tranquil setting in Paris, consider staying in a hotel in the 2nd arrondissement. You get to stay in a beautiful environment that allows you to truly relax, such a the following options that are suitable for every budget:

Budget

Hôtel Bonne Nouvelle – Hotel Bonne Nouvelle is a low-cost lodging option lear the Opera and the Republique. The hotel features well-appointed guest rooms, a 24-hour reception, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. A short stroll from the hotel will take you to Les Halles, Palais Royale, and the historic Marais.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by HBN Hôtel Bonne Nouvelle (@hotel_bonne_nouvelle)

Check out the hotel rates here.

Midrange

Korner Opera – Large, comfortable rooms with free WiFi and private bathrooms are available at the Hotel Korner Opera. It’s a great place to stay if you’re going to the Jardin du Palais Royal, Galeries Lafayette, or the Korner Opera, all of which are close by.

Check out the hotel rates here.

Luxury

Hotel Malte – Astotel – This beautiful Parisian hotel is located in the city’s historic centre and boasts an indoor courtyard and a 24-hour front desk.

All of the rooms are soundproofed and equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi. Each room has a minibar and a private bathroom. Oil painting reproductions from the 18th and 19th centuries are featured in each room, giving it an old-world character.

Check out the hotel rates here.