First Arrondissement Paris, 1st Arrondissement

Although not the oldest area architecturally, it is a lively haven for tourists as it is home to some of Paris’ most famous landmarks including the Palais du Louvre and its ornate Tuileries gardens, Sainte Chappelle famous for its stained glass and the chic Place Vendôme. The more ‘populaire’ pedestrianised shopping and restaurant district of Les Halles, once a thriving market, is also in the first arrondissement.

This arrondissement is essentially a daytime area for businesses and high street names and is thus a favourite with the shoppaholics, especially on rue de Rivoli and around Les Halles. In the evenings it is animated with a mixture of bars and restaurants catering for all tastes.

Apartments
Larger apartments do occasionally become available in areas such as rue de Rivoli and around Sainte Honoré, but the area is more associated with the smaller studios and two or three room apartments, which are always in high demand due to the central location and the excellent transport.

These more modest properties can be found around the Les Halles district, which is ideal for connections to public transport but best avoided late evening especially in the red light district of rue St Denis.

Rarely do apartments become available on the Ile de la Cité, but if you are lucky enough to find one it is likely to be stunning.

First Arrondissement - Useful Addresses

Mairie - 1st Arrondissement
4 Place du Louvre
75042 PARIS CEDEX 01
Tél : 01.44.50.75.01
Fax : 01.44.50.75.99