The Best Place to Stay in Paris

I’m sure many travellers as well as Parisians themselves have their own idea of the best place to stay in Paris. If you want an area that is full of quirks, culture and atmosphere however, I’d recommend Montmartre as the best place to stay in Paris every time.

Location

If you’re arriving by Eurostar into Gare du Nord station in the centre of Paris, the district of Montmartre is incredibly quick and easy to get to. Just jump off the train and walk up the road. There are many cost-effective guest houses and other standards of hotel in the Montmartre area and the walk to find yours will be a pleasant induction to Parisian life. Locals and tourists alike relax outside the bustling cafes and bars in the area, sipping coffee or beer as they watch the world go by.

Sightseeing

By the time you’ve checked into your accommodation you would probably have already been told what there is to see in the area. If not, ask! One of the things that makes Montmartre the best place to stay in Paris is that you can just wander around soaking up the atmosphere and seeing where the wind takes you without the need to have planned sights to see. Although sights there are indeed in Montmartre, and it would be a shame to miss them. In the space of just a short walk you’ll stumble across the Moulin Rouge, the Musée de Montmartre and many other museums and religious sites of interest. The most awe-inspiring attraction for any traveller to the area however needs an introduction all of its own…

Sacré-Coeur

Sacré-Coeur, the building in the sky, sits on top of a hill overlooking not only the rest of Montmartre but the whole of Paris. The view just from the front steps is incredible enough, let alone if you decide to climb the spiral staircase to the very top of the building. Many people come here to worship but many more flock to the area to see the sights and take in the atmosphere which, depending when you go, can get pretty lively. Early morning or early evening and on week days are best if you want to avoid the bigger crowds and the many touts selling their wares. However it’s worth checking out the amazing view both during the day and once again when night has fallen across the city of lights.

Atmosphere & Art

The atmosphere in Montmartre’s many squares contribute greatly to making this area the best place to stay in Paris. Streets seeped in history where artists have peddled their wares for centuries are now lined with gift shops and cafes and teem with tourists in the busy months. But don’t let that put you off. The paved streets of the squares in Montmartre are still something to behold; just pitch up at one of the tables on a cobbled road, order yourself a drink and imagine the likes of Picasso creating his masterpieces nearby. After that browse the local galleries and learn about up and coming local artists, perhaps taking home a painting or two by a future artistic genius. Submerging yourself in the history of Montmartre’s creative past and taking the time to soak up the atmosphere will really make your stay in this area one that you'll always remember.

There are many diverse and interesting areas to stay when visiting the French capital, but the above and much more make Montmartre a strong contender for the best place to stay in Paris. Not only does it offer so much in terms of culture, history and sightseeing, it is also incredibly accessible to the rest of the city and beyond.