Guide To Paris 3rd Arrondissement

In addition to the first and second arrondissements, Paris’ 3rd arrondissement is one of the city’s most popular among tourists.

Located in the middle of the city and offering a high quality of life, this neighbourhood is popular with locals. Besides its stunning architecture, the 3rd arrondissement of Paris is home to some of the city’s most exquisite boutiques and art galleries.

Only a small portion of Le Marais may be found in Paris’s 3rd arrondissement (the other half is in Paris 4). Le Marais is simply a part of Paris’s history; it is neither a district nor a neighbourhood.

The French word marais literally translates to “marshland,” and that’s exactly what Le Marais used to be. People’s lives began to alter in the 14th century when King Charles V drained and protected the city’s marshes.

Related Read:

• Guide To Paris 1st Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 2nd Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 4th Arrondissement
• Guide To Paris 5th Arrondissement

King Charles V decided to relocate to the Hôtel Saint Paul in Le Marais after a series of security problems on the Ile de la Cité. All the key persons who wanted to remain close to.

They surrounded the new royal palace with stunning hôtels particuliers (private houses). Museums have opened in several of these private mansions, some of which are now open to the public.

The 3rd arrondissement is also known as the Temple Quarter in Paris. The Knights of Templar, a religious and military organization, acquired this land by the 14th century and gave it the name “Temple.”

Within the walls of the Templars, many tradesmen and craftsmen were exempt from taxation by the monarchy. Only until King Philip IV imprisoned the last Templars and confiscated their property in 1307.

Even now, the exquisite Arts & Crafts Museum is silently a testimony to this medieval arts and crafts heritage. The Carreau du Temple, a covered market built on the site of the Templars’ medieval enclosure, is another notable building in this area associated with the Templars.

As a result of its fascinating past as well as the relics left by the area’s early occupants, the 3rd arrondissement is popular with tourists. See what the 3rd arrondissement has to offer in terms of attractions, dining, and lodging.

READ MORE: Guide To Paris Arrondissements

Guide To Paris 3rd 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 3rd Arrondissement

Are you looking for something to do in the 3rd Arrondissement? These are the most popular tourist attractions in Paris 3, and while they are touristy, they are also gorgeous and worth the visit.

Picasso Museum 

A short walk from the intersection of 3rd and 4th arrondissements, the Picasso Museum is housed within the historic Hôtel Salé. Pablo Picasso, one of France’s most celebrated artists, has a museum dedicated to his work and life.

Here, you’ll find the world’s largest public exhibition of Picasso originals. About 297 paintings, 368 sculptures and 3D works, 92 illustrated books and 200,000 archival pieces make up this collection.

Picasso Museum is also one of the best museums to visit in Paris.

Le Carreau du Temple

Located in the 3rd arrondissement, the Carreau du Temple is a well-known Parisian landmark. The whole ceiling of this exhibit hall is constructed of glass, making it look like a huge greenhouse.

If you are into photography and videography, this is an ideal setting. Regardless of the season, Le Carreau du Temple is one of the few naturally warm structures in Paris.

Musée Carnavalet

In the Musée Carnavalet, the history of Paris is depicted from its beginnings to this very day. A gallery on the first floor connects two adjacent private residences that house the museum.

This museum, one of the best free ones in Paris, should not be missed especially if it’s your first time in the city.

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

Passage de l’Ancre

The 3rd arrondissement’s crooked blue doors on Rue Saint-Martin may easily be overlooked as you stroll through the area.

A delightful surprise awaits those who brave the dimly lit entryway and find one of Paris’ many hidden corridors.

There aren’t many people in the neighbourhood that are aware of this wonderful walkway, so make sure you visit when you’re in Paris.

Square du Temple – Elie Wiesel

Located in the lower Marais, the Square du Temple is a lush green space in Paris with a little pond in the middle.

In contrast to other Parisian public places that are open late into the evening, this park is only open during the day. You can relax, read, picnic, or take a nap here in between exploring the area.

Where To Eat in 3rd Arrondissement

The 3rd district of Paris is home to some of the city’s best and most evolved restaurants and cafes. There is an abundance of vegan options, as well as innovative new concept restaurants, kosher dining establishments, and falafel stands.

Budget

La French Guinguette (58, rue Rambuteau) – La French Guinguette, a well-known hangout, exudes friendliness and familiarity. You’ll be in the mood as soon as you walk through the door!

French cuisine of the highest quality is served in a comfortable setting with a warm and elegant (rustic) design. The best thing? The food is quite reasonable and it’s one of the best affordable restaurants in Paris.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by 🌸 La French Guinguette 🌸 (@la_french_guinguette)

Midrange

Auberge Nicolas Flamel (51, rue de Montmorency) – Located in the oldest Parisian house (built in 1407) and designated a Historical Monument, this restaurant is a must-try for anybody visiting the city. Traditional French cuisine is given a modern twist by the chef, who offers a variety of unique combinations and inventive sauces.

Luxury

Anne – Pavillon de la Reine (28 rue Place des Vosges) – Non-guests are welcome at Anne, a beautiful restaurant inside the luxurious Hotel Le Pavillon de la Reine in Place des the Vosges.

At every meal, you’ll find an abundance of locally sourced ingredients that have been expertly prepared. Mathieu Pacaud, the chef, is one of Paris’ most talented cooks today.

Where To Stay in 3rd Arrondissement

A fantastic selection of hotels is available in the 3rd arrondissement, one of the most visited districts in Paris in terms of tourists. There are accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of our favourites.

Budget

Hotel Americain – The Hotel Américain is a lovely boutique hotel located in the historic Marais neighbourhood of Paris. All of the guest rooms have been recently remodelled and are soundproof, comfortable, and well-equipped. In addition to complimentary Wi-Fi, several of the rooms include balconies.

There are many attractions nearby, including the Picasso Museum and the Pompidou Center.

Check out the hotel rates here.

Midrange

Hôtel Jacques de Molay – The fitness centre and sauna at this Marais hotel are both complimentary to guests at the Hotel Jacques De Molay. All of the hotel’s rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi. A continental breakfast is offered each morning, as well as a drink at the hotel’s bar after a long day.

Both the Pompidou Center and the Canal Saint-Martin are easily accessible by foot from the Arts et Métiers Metro Station.

Check out the hotel rates here.

Luxury

Hotel du Petit Moulin –French designer Christian Lacroix created the interiors of Paris’ Hotel du Petit Moulin, located in the Marais region. All of the rooms are individually decorated and well-stocked. It’s possible to get a continental breakfast in your accommodation or at a hotel bar every morning.

Hotel du Petit Moulin is close to the Filles du Calvaire Metro Station, which offers direct access to the Eiffel Tower and Opéra Garnier.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hotel du Petit Moulin (@hotel_du_petit_moulin)

Check out the hotel rates here.