The Trendiest Neighborhood To Stay At In Paris Is A Foodie Heaven, Per Rick Steves' Travel Guide

The City of Light and the City of Love, Paris is one of the world's most beautiful and historic destinations. With its countless museums, impeccable architecture, and irresistible street scenes oozing with coffee and the smell of baguettes, the capital of one Europe's most exciting countries is a haven for the wandering artist, philosopher, and foodie. However, a city as vast and busy as Paris can be overwhelming, so it's best to become familiar with Paris' trendiest and tastiest neighborhood: Le Marais. 

Spreading through parts of the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, Le Marais was once a district that much of the French aristocracy called home. However, this all changed after the French Revolution, with the district left to rot as it was abandoned by moneyed Parisians. In recent years, Le Marais has become a highly sought-after destination, with travel extraordinaire Rick Steves describing Le Marais on his website as a "moveable feast of fashion boutiques, art galleries, Jewish bakeries, nightlife, and real Parisians." No visit to Paris is complete without a stroll through Le Marais' lush green squares and its many restaurants, so come stay in this gem of a neighborhood with an open heart and a big appetite.

Rick Steves' favorite street in Paris is the bustling Rue Cler, a hub of cafes, bistros, bars, and food markets at the heart of Le Marais. Situated conveniently on this street is the recently renovated Cler Hotel, Steves' go-to hotel in the City of Light, and a spot offering top-floor views of the Eiffel Tower. Drop off your suitcases, then grab an espresso and a pastry at Au Petit Versailles du Marais, an award-winning boulangerie and pastry shop named after France's iconic Versailles Palace. With decor modeled on the inside of its famous namesake and pastries fit for French aristocracy, Au Petit Versailles will transport you to the 18th-century splendor of the royal court.

With your appetite satisfied, it's time to explore the rest of the district. Rick Steves claims that a visit to Le Marais is incomplete without a walking tour of the Place des Vosges, which he calls the "centerpiece of the finest neighborhood in town." A perfect example of 17th-century architecture, the stunning courtyard was once used by the French monarchs for equestrian activities. Now an integral part of daily Parisian life, you'll find families, lovers, and tourists alike grazing on the well-kept lawns. If you still have an appetite, make sure to check out Le Place Royale for lunch. Situated in the stone walls of the Place, with terrace seating, this restaurant offers a two-course lunch menu at 22 euros per person. An inventive twist on traditional Normandy cuisine, the vegetable tatin or the prawn brochettes come highly recommended.

Another cultural gem that features in Rick Steves' walking tour through Le Marais is the Pompidou Center. The center is not just a home for contemporary arts but also a library and center for music and a marvel of '70s postmodern architecture. Although much of the Pompidou's appeal is in its appearance, the exhibits inside the center also offer a wide range of stimuli for any art lover. Drawing international artists to the district, this building very much helps Le Marais retain its title of "trendiest neighborhood in Paris."

For dinner, try L'Inapercu, a fusion of gastronomy and photography in the northern corner of Le Marais. The creative bistro-cum-library project offers a creative menu with an emphasis on seasonal fruit and vegetables. A twist on classic French cuisine, this restaurant offers dishes such as breaded bronze filet in wild garlic sauce and pork tenderloin with polenta. The deconstructed desserts are also a surprising treat for any foodie.

Le Marais is also Paris' LGBTIQ+ epicenter and comes to life at night. For a trendy nightcap, stroll over towards Le Mary Celeste (although you may have to wait in line as this bar has become one of the busiest in the area). This spot typically hosts a stylish crowd, so make sure to dress to impress. Do not leave without trying the Mezcal Fizz.