Guide To Paris 4th Arrondissement

The 4th Arrondissement of Paris is where you will find Notre Dame, the Hôtel de Ville (Paris’ city hall), Ile de Saint Louis, the eastern edge of Ile de la Cité, and the southern half of Le Marais.

Not only is this area a famous tourist destination because it contains some of the most significant historical landmarks in the city but it is considered the heart of contemporary Paris. 

Artists, designers, hipsters, and young professionals are all drawn to the 4th Arrondissement, which is home to many vibrant and affluent areas that attract a varied spectrum of people.

The 4th Arrondissement is bordered on the west by the 1st arrondissement, on the north by the 3rd arrondissement, on the east by the 11th and 12th arrondissements, and on the south by the Seine and the 5th arrondissement.

The neighbourhoods of Saint-Merri, Saint-Gervais, and Notre-Dame are all part of this old District. A significant amount of medieval Paris can be found here  On both ends of the Axe historical, as well as in the small alleys of the lower Marais, you’ll find remnants from that era.

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Whether you’re a history buff or a fan of old architecture, you’ll enjoy walking through the streets of the  4th.

However, at night the 4th is most recognized for being the location of some of the most dynamic bar scenes in Paris.

This includes the Lower Marais, which is well-known as the gay district of Paris. Still, there is no shortage of bars that cater to a range of demographics, including straight singles, mixed crowds, and even families during the early evening hours.

Are you planning a trip to Paris soon? Then stay in the 4th Arrondissement to take advantage of the many attractions, shopping opportunities, and cultural sights that the city has to offer.

This guide offers a more detailed look at what you’ll find in the area, from the top to visit the best dining options and the best hotels for every budget preference.

READ MORE: Guide To Paris Arrondissements

Guide to Paris 4th Arrondissement

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Things To Do In 4th Arrondissement

Parisian history that dates back to nearly a thousand years, impressive art and a look into the life of a literary great are just some of the things you’d experience in the 4th arrondissement of Paris.

Notre Dame

Notre Dame, the most visited attraction in the 4th, is a must-see for anybody visiting Paris. The famed cathedral was erected in the 12th century and houses ancient relics, exquisite stained glass windows, and precious works of art. 

It is also often regarded as an architectural wonder, even after the fire that destroyed a part of it. The church is currently being restored.

Archeological Crypt of  Île de la Cité

The Archeological Crypt of Île de la Cité is a museum that displays items from various periods in Paris’ history, dating back to ancient Roman times.

This section delves into Parisian history before the medieval period. The crypt is located in the area directly in front of Notre Dame, and it is frequently neglected by visitors to the famed church.

Georges Pompidou Center

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With various galleries and the National Museum of Modern Art, the Centre Georges Pompidou is a modern hub for French art and culture. There is also a public library, a coffee shop, and a bookstore on the premises.

Meanwhile, the National Museum of Contemporary Art houses almost 50,000 works of art, including one of the world’s most important, vast, and prestigious collections of modern art.

Place des Vosges

Once royal grounds, the Place des Vosges gardens now serve as a respite from the city’s bustling streets and provide a welcome break from the heat.

The Place des Vosges, which is lined with stunning red brick structures, is the city’s oldest square and one of the most beautiful in the world. This area also serves as a boundary between the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris.

Maison de Victor Hugo

The famous author Victor Hugo lived in this flat from 1832 to 1848.

His former residence has now been turned into a museum. You may visit his preserved flat and see recreations of other rooms in this little museum on the picturesque Place des Vosges.

Hugo’s most famous works include The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Les Misérables, both of which are set in Paris.

Where To Eat in 4th Arrondissement

The Marais is home to a plethora of excellent bistros and restaurants. Foodies will enjoy the vibrant street des Rosiers, which is home to the best falafels in town as well as other delicious affordable foods, while rue Saint-Louis is well-known for its gourmet eateries.

Budget

L’As du Falafel (32-34 Rue des Rosiers) – L’As du Falafel, located on the warm rue des Rosiers, is the neighbourhood’s signature restaurant. This restaurant is a must-visit for everyone who likes Middle Eastern cuisine. The house specialities are falafel and shawarma.

Everything here is fresh, homemade, and excellent. But keep an eye out for the crowds and don’t expect to be able to stay at your table. Fortunately, the takeout service is quite quick. This is a must-try.

Midrange

Le Caveau de l’Isle (36 Rue Saint-Louis en l’Ile) – Traditional yet exquisite cuisine awaits you in this quaint restaurant at the heart of Isle St. Louis. The magnificent cellar filled with period stones and furnished with a lovely 17th-century fireplace transports you to another era.

Its superb meals with an unusual twist, as well as skillfully picked wines, are popular with both regular customers and tourists.

Luxury

L’Orangerie Paris (28, rue Saint-Louis en L’Ile) – Located on the Ile St Louis, this charming neighbourhood bistro is a must-try.

The Michelin-starred L’Orangerie, offers a unique dining experience in a bright, airy setting. Plus, even with a little workforce, the service here is quick and efficient. Plant- and fish-based meals, as well as dairy, play a prominent role in the cuisine.

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Where To Stay in 4th Arrondissement

A wide range of hotel options can be found in Paris’ fourth arrondissement, whether you’re on a budget or are willing to splash out on lodgings.

Budget

D’win – It takes only five minutes to go to Paris’ Hôtel de Ville Metro Station on foot from the D’win Hotel. Spacious, pleasant, and fully furnished, this hotel’s rooms are a pleasure to stay in. A complimentary continental breakfast is available each morning for guests. The hotel’s courtyard is a nice place here to unwind.

In addition to complimentary Wi-Fi, the front desk is open 24/7 should you have any concerns.

Check out the hotel rates here.

Midrange

Hôtel Bastille Speria – Between Bastille and the Vosges, you’ll find the Speria Hotel in the hip Marais neighbourhood. Guests can rest in a spacious and pretty room that has a private work area with a desk and phone.

Every morning, you can enjoy a breakfast buffet in the privacy of your accommodation. The entire Bastille Spéria hotel has free Wi-Fi and 24-hour reception.

The hotel is less than a quarter of a mile from the Place de la Bastille and its world-famous opera house. The city hall and the Georges Pompidou Center are both within a 20-minute stroll.

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Check out the hotel rates here.

Luxury

Goralska Résidences Hôtel Paris Bastille – Featuring spacious suites and a fitness centre, Goralska Résidences Hôtel Paris Bastille is located 601 m from Place de la Bastille. Guests can enjoy views over the river and there is free WiFi throughout the property.

Each suite at this hotel offers spacious, comfy and stylish well-equipped rooms. Extra facilities at this hotel include a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge, and a concierge service.

Opéra Bastille is 701 m from Goralska Résidences Hôtel Paris Bastille, while Notre Dame Cathedral is 0.9 mi from the property.

Check out the hotel rates here.