The first arrondissement of Paris contains some of the most important attractions and museums in the City of Lights. It is the beating, historical and artistic heart of Paris, the highlight of which is of course the Louvre Museum and the adjacent Tuileries Gardens.
What else is there in the first arrondissement besides the Louvre, you ask? There's plenty more to see. Head south to the Ile de la Cité, where you'll get to see the palace where she was imprisoned. Marie Antoinette And the Sainte-Chapelle Church. In short, an immense historical and artistic bliss, located in a relatively small geographical space – which means you can save travel time and spend it eating croissants.
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Attractions and museums in the first arrondissement of Paris
Here are some of the must-see sites in the 1st arrondissement, from the most well-known to a few surprises you might not have known about. Book your tickets in advance, the queues in Paris are merciless!
The Louvre Museum
The largest museum in the world, and undoubtedly the most important in Paris. Don’t try to see it all in one day (or even a few days), because all you’ll get is “art poisoning.” It’s a good idea to decide in advance which sections you’ll visit.
- The home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo
- A huge collection of classical art
- Requires advance planning due to its size
Sainte-Chapelle Church
Built by King Louis IX to house Christ’s “Crown of Thorns,” the church features some of the most beautiful stained glass in Paris. Come on a sunny day and you’ll see what everyone’s talking about.
- Breathtaking Gothic architecture
- 13th century stained glass windows
The Conciergerie
A medieval royal palace that became a famous prison during the Revolution. This is where Marie Antoinette spent her last days before her unpleasant encounter with the guillotine.
- A fascinating (and slightly dark) history
- A combined ticket to Sainte Chapelle is recommended.
The Orangery Museum
A must-see for lovers of Impressionism, especially Claude Monet. His giant work “Water Lilies” is displayed in elliptical rooms designed especially for it.
- Intimate and relaxed atmosphere
- Works by Picasso, Renoir and Matisse
Hotel de la Marine
The former French naval headquarters has undergone a massive renovation and has been transformed into a fascinating museum. An incredible opportunity to glimpse the splendor and wealth of the 18th century aristocracy.
- Breathtaking interior design
- Amazing view of Place de la Concorde
The stock exchange
This museum of modern art is located in the magnificent building of the historic Wheat Exchange. It displays the impressive art collection of François Pinault.
- A perfect combination of old and new
- Excellent temporary exhibitions
Museum of Decorative Arts (MAD)
The museum, located in one of the Louvre's wings (the Marsan wing), displays a vast and magnificent collection of design, furniture, fashion, and jewelry from the Middle Ages to the present day. A true paradise for lovers of aesthetics.
- The most talked about fashion exhibitions in the world
- Less crowded than the neighboring Louvre
Museum of Illusions (Musée de l'Illusion)
Located in the 1st district. An interactive and fun experience where nothing is as it seems! Inverted rooms, holograms and optical illusions that will blow your mind.
- An amazing attraction for families and children
- Huge opportunities for Instagram photos
If you feel like going deeper, joining a guided tour, discovering hidden gems, or going on a culinary tasting in central Paris, I have compiled plenty of great options for you.
Recommended hotels in the 1th arrondissement of Paris
If you've decided that the first district is the place for you (an excellent decision, by the way), here are 5 recommendations for hotels that will suit different styles and budgets – from uncompromising luxury to comfortable realism:
Hotel Le Meurice
Splendor and history right across from the Tuileries Gardens. Not cheap to say the least, but it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience. For true indulgent eaters who appreciate classic luxury.
- Perfect location in front of the Tuileries
- Michelin restaurant in the hotel
Brighton Hotel
One of my favorite hotels. Offers perhaps the most beautiful view in Paris of the Tuileries Gardens and the Louvre, with spacious rooms relative to Paris.
- Breathtaking view
- Spacious rooms
- Very high demand
Novotel Paris Les Halles
A modern 4-star hotel, perfect for families because of the adapted rooms and the location at the central train station Les Halles (which will take you directly to Disney).
- Ideal for families and shopping
- Convenient location for public transportation
Timhotel Le Louvre
A reliable chain hotel that provides great value for money. Functional rooms and good air conditioning (not a given in the Parisian summer) a stone's throw from the Louvre.
- Good value for money
- A fixed and reliable standard
Hotel Saint Roch
A very basic hotel but with historical charm and the best location available at a reasonable price. For those who come to explore the city and need a cheap and clean place to lay their head.
- Winning location at a low price
- Very basic and modest
None of these hotels are exactly what you were looking for? No problem, I've prepared a more extensive list. Click here for the full page of recommended hotels in the 1st District.
Recommended apartments in the 1th arrondissement of Paris
If you want to feel like a local, go down to the bakery (boulangerie) in the morning and come back with a fresh baguette, renting an apartment is the solution. Here are 5 recommended apartments of various sizes:
Sweet Inn Etienne Marcel
A charming and well-equipped apartment with a separate bedroom. Located in a lively and bustling pedestrian area with lots of restaurants behind La Halle.
- A lively area with good food
- equipped kitchen
Charming Studio
Romantic studio under the “roofs of Paris” (in the attic). Special and luxurious design in a location between the Louvre Museum and the Opera House. Classic for a couple’s vacation.
- Romantic and Parisian atmosphere
- Great location
Yuna Les Halles
Modern and great serviced apartments for families. The location is perfect if you plan to combine trips to Disneyland thanks to the proximity to the RER train.
- Great for combining with Disney
- Close to Montreuil culinary street
Apartments Du Louvre
An air-conditioned and well-equipped apartment hotel offering exceptionally large apartments. An excellent and popular solution for large families who want to be in the center of things.
- Spacious and air-conditioned (important in summer)
- Please note: There is no elevator in the building.
City dwellers Les Halles
Part of a large and trusted apartment hotel chain, offering apartments of various sizes with hotel facilities and home comforts, right in the heart of the vibrant Le Halle area.
- Large network security
- Spacious bathroom and kitchenette
Want to check out more apartment options in the area? Visit my complete recommended apartments page in District 1..
The next step in your trip
Finished exploring the first district? Great! Now it's time to discover what awaits you in the rest of the city. Enter theMy Paris attractions page And you will see a whole world of shows, exhibitions and parks.
And if you want to be prepared in advance for any scenario, restaurant or metro ride, Comprehensive Paris guide on the website I've compiled all the knowledge I've gained for you. Have an amazing trip (and don't forget to eat a macaron or two for me)!