Where to Stay in Le Marais
Le Marais is one of the most beautiful areas of Paris, so anyone staying in the vicinity is more or less guaranteed the classic experience of the French capital. Those seeking views of the Seine might want to base themselves along Quai des Celestins, whilst other seeking green spaces have the option of Place des Vosges. Boulevard Beaumarchais is a great location for anyone looking to explore neighboring Bastille, whilst anywhere along Rue Chapon or Rue Michel-le-Comte will open up plenty of options for exploring the adjacent arrondissements.
Facts about Le Marais
The Marais is one of the most popular quartiers of Paris, with its historic charm, picture-postcard streets, ornate courtyards, and gardens, as well as a plethora of traditional cafes and bistros.
- Le Marais became a haven for bohemian culture in the wake of the revolution
- Le Marais is famous for its LGBT culture
- The neighborhood was once considered the Jewish Quarter of Paris and features several ornate synagogues.
- Place des Vosges is Oldest planned square in Paris, built by Henri IV in 1612.
Things to do in Le Marais
Paris arguably has more world-renowned landmarks than any other city on earth from iconic modern structures to ancient catacombs, there is enough to do in the city to keep visitors returning again and again. Les Marais is particularly noteworthy for its medieval heritage. Often cited as the French Capital’s most historic quartier, Le Marais is a place to explore as it has so many famous sights nearby.
Q. What is Le Marais known for?
Le Marais is known as being one of the best-preserved areas of Paris, with architecture dating back to medieval times. It is home to the oldest planned square in the city and many of the buildings have been featured in movies and literature.
Q. How long does it take to explore the Le Marais
Le Marais is only a small area so those looking to explore its stunning architecture will find they can fit a walking tour into a single afternoon. However, the charm of Le Marais lies in its atmosphere, so many prefer to spend much longer in the area - perhaps enjoying a coffee in one of the picturesque cafes.
Q. Is Le Marais close to any other landmarks?
Le Marais is just a short walk from some of Paris’s most famous locations, including the Louvre, Jardins des Tuileries and the Palais-Royal. It is also possible to reach several other world-famous landmarks, including two of Paris’s most iconic cathedrals, without needing to rely on public transport.
Q. What are some romantic activities near Le Marais?
Le Marais itself is one of the most romantic areas of Paris - with its picturesque streets lined with historic architecture. In fact, a simple stroll around the area is one of the most romantic things to do. Alternatively, it is possible to picnic in one of the nearby green spaces, or even take a romantic cruise along the Seine, taking in the incredible views from the river.
Places to Visit in Le Marais
Thanks to its central location, Le Marais is the perfect place from which to explore the city of Paris. Whilst there’s plenty to see and do around the neighborhood itself - not least its huge selection of cafes and bistros - anyone staying in Le Marais will find they don’t need to walk far to find many of the French capital’s most famous sights. Below are a few of the must-see attractions in the area.
- Place des Vosges - This is said to be the most beautiful square in Paris - not to mention the oldest. Filled with galleries and restaurants, it is one of the most popular sports in the city.
- Jardins des Tuileries - Stunning garden and a key part of Parisienne history, with plenty of open space and stunning floral displays.
- The Louvre - Simply one of the greatest museums in the world and home to the infamous Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
- Musee d’Orsay - One of the world’s premier art museums, housed in a former train station and boasting a stunning interior.
- Notre Dame Cathedral - Just a short walk outside of the 1st arrondissement is the famous medieval cathedral that is instantly recognizable due to its two-towered facade.
- The Champs Elysees - The wide boulevard is the place to shop in Paris, with several high-end designer stores and boutiques.
- The House of Victor Hugo - A former residence of the author responsible for Les Miserable and the Hunchback of Notre Dame. Open for tours all year round.
Places to Eat in Le Marais
Le Marais boasts a thriving restaurant scene, offering everything from no-frills bistros to fine dining. Anyone looking to enjoy the classic Paris cafe experience will find it in local establishments such as Breizh Café, Cafe Pinsent or Le Pelototon - all of which have an old-world feel to them and exhibit the social atmosphere that such places have become so well known for. In terms of restaurants, there are some excellent fine dining establishments in and around the 3rd and 4th arrondissements, including Dessaince, Comptoir Gourmet, and Le Table Ronde. Alternatively, for something a little more casual, there are plenty of great bistros, such as Bistrot de l’Oulette or Au Petit Fer à Cheval.
Street Food in Les Marais
Despite being known as one of the most affluent areas in the city, Le Marais still upholds the Parisienne tradition of excellent street food. The most popular street food locally can be found along Rue des Rosiers - with L’as du Fallafel rumored to offer the best falafels the city. As a former Jewish Quarter, there are also plenty of Jewish bakeries and cafés, offering delicacies such as challah bread, potato pancakes, and more. Alternatively, for something with a little spice, there’s Siam Square Thaï Street Food or OBAO Asian Street.
Shopping in Les Marais
Being only a small area, shopping in Le Marais is a more low key affair than in much of the city’s more commercial neighborhoods. However, the 3rd and 4th arrondissements boast a wide selection of specialized shopping, with the likes of The Kooples, Sandro and Comptoir des Cotonniers having a local presence. here’s an abundance of home décor and interior furnishing shops in the area.
For a more traditional shopping experience however, the area has several shopping malls within easy reach. These include:
- Carrousel du Louvre
- Forum des Halles
- Galerie Vivienne
- Le Village Royale
- Rue Montorgueil Shopping
Transportation in Les Marais
Le Marais benefits from being part of Paris’s excellent public transport network. There are numerous bus routes operating direct services from all over the city - with the 42 and the 69 covering most other central locations and several metro stations that serve Le Marais and its surroundings. Some of the local metros stop to be aware of include:
- Hotel De Ville
- St Paul
- Chatelet
- Concorde
- Pyramides
- Les Halles
Transport in the city can be paid for using the Paris Visite travel pass, which costs €38.35, is a five-day pass which offers unlimited travel across the cities public transport.
Weather Les Marais
Paris weather is seasonal and largely predictable in monthly terms. Winters will see temperatures drop to around freezing - or just below - in December and January. Typically, July and August are the warmest months for the city, with temperatures reaching over 28 degrees on average during the hotter periods. During the summer, it is advisable to find accommodation with air conditioning, as temperatures can stay high even overnight. August is the holiday month and many Parisienne's heads to the south coast, so the city is often less busy than one may expect during the height of summer. Paris weather in September and October is often the most desirable, as during these months it is cooler than the height of summer but typically still dry, making this a popular time of year to visit the city.
