1st - 12th arrondissements

Overview of the arrondissements in central Paris

Central Paris is traditionally divided into 20 arrondissements, spiraling outwards from the heart of the city, which is located at the Louvre in the 1st arrondissement. Here’s a brief overview of the arrondissements in central Paris:

1st Arrondissement
Landmarks: Louvre Museum, Palais Royal, Place Vendôme
Characteristics: Historic and elegant, with many prestigious shops and landmarks.

2nd Arrondissement
Landmarks: Bourse (old stock exchange), Rue Montorgueil
Characteristics: A mix of historic sites and a lively business district.

3rd Arrondissement
Landmarks: Musée Picasso, Marché des Enfants Rouges
Characteristics: Part of the Marais district, known for galleries, boutiques, and a bohemian atmosphere.

4th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Hôtel de Ville, Île Saint-Louis
Characteristics: The heart of the Marais, famous for its medieval streets, Jewish quarter, and LGBTQ+ community.

5th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Panthéon, Sorbonne University, Jardin des Plantes
Characteristics: The Latin Quarter, renowned for its academic institutions and student-friendly vibe.

6th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Luxembourg Gardens, Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Characteristics: Known for its intellectual history, literary cafés, and art galleries.

7th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, Les Invalides
Characteristics: Elegant, upscale neighborhood, home to many museums and government buildings.

8th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Concorde
Characteristics: Prestigious area with luxury shops, offices, and famous avenues.

9th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Opéra Garnier, Galeries Lafayette
Characteristics: Known for its theaters, shopping, and grand boulevards.

10th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Canal Saint-Martin, Gare de l'Est, Gare du Nord
Characteristics: A trendy, multicultural district with a vibrant nightlife and creative energy.

11th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Place de la Bastille, Rue Oberkampf
Characteristics: Known for its nightlife, bars, and young, dynamic atmosphere.

12th Arrondissement
Landmarks: Bois de Vincennes, Bercy Village
Characteristics: Residential area with green spaces, including the Bois de Vincennes park.

Central Paris usually refers to the first 12 arrondissements, though all 20 form a circular arrangement around the city center.