Paris 1st arrondissement, also known as the Louvre district, is centrally located and teems with activities and historical sites. This area, characterized by its deep-rooted connection to Paris’s past villages such as Belleville, Vaugirard, and Montmartre, offers a rich experience of the city’s culture and history. Here’s more about the 1st arrondissement of Paris, covering general information, key attractions, and charming accommodations.
About the 1st Arrondissement of Paris
The 1st arrondissement, known as Louvre, is situated in the city’s heart, covering an area of 1.83 square kilometers. It also includes part of Île de la Cité. Approximately 17,000 people reside in this district, which is divided into four neighborhoods: Quartier Saint-Germain-l’Auxerrois, Quartier du Palais-Royal, Quartier des Halles, and Quartier de la Place Vendôme.
Key Attractions in the 1st Arrondissement
- The Louvre Museum: The most notable landmark in this arrondissement, the Louvre is one of the world’s largest museums, spanning about 160,000 square meters. Established in 1793, the museum, originally a royal palace, now showcases thousands of works from various periods and regions, including the famous Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- La Conciergerie: This historic building on the banks of Île de la Cité was once part of a royal palace and served as a prison during the French Revolution, housing notable prisoners like Marie Antoinette.
- Palace of Justice and Sainte-Chapelle: The Palace of Justice, housing France’s highest judicial bodies, is also in this arrondissement. Adjacent to it is Sainte-Chapelle, built in 1248 by Louis IX and famous for its stunning stained-glass windows.
- Pont Neuf: Paris’s oldest standing bridge, built at the end of the 16th century, connects the western part of Île de la Cité to the rest of Paris.
- Les Halles: Originally an outdoor market place from the 12th century, Les Halles was transformed into a covered market in 1854 and is now a vibrant shopping center.
- Galerie nationale du Jeu de Paume: An art gallery and exhibition space, originally constructed in 1861 and later becoming a significant venue for modern and postmodern art.
- Jardin des Tuileries: Named after the tile factories once located here, these gardens are a peaceful retreat in the heart of Paris, complete with cultural statues and fountains.
Staying in the 1st Arrondissement
Looking for accommodation in the 1st arrondissement of Paris? There are many great places to stay to choose from. Here are 3 great accommodations to make your choice a little easier.
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L’Empire Paris
A hotel that is well-received in the first arrondissement is L’Empire Paris. Stepping out of this hotel, you only need to walk 300 meters to reach the Louvre. The hotel features a wellness center to fully relax, complete with a sauna, spa, and hammam. If you need transportation to or from the airport, you can use the shuttle service.
The hotel rooms are fully equipped. There is air conditioning for the warmer days, televisions with a variety of channels, and wifi throughout the hotel. In the morning, you can enjoy a breakfast buffet, and lunch and dinner are served during the day. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, you can visit the bar.
You can read more about the hotel here.
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Hotel Ducs de Bourgogne
Another popular place to stay in the 1st arrondissement of Paris is Hotel Ducs de Bourgogne. From this hotel, it’s a 5-minute walk to the Louvre. Notre Dame is also very close. The hotel rooms feature a television, a workspace, and are accessible for guests with disabilities. The rooms are also well-cleaned.
A breakfast buffet is available in the morning in the hotel’s basement. Room service is also available, and public transportation from the hotel makes the rest of the city easily accessible. An airport shuttle can also be arranged. The reception is open 24 hours.
You can read more about the hotel here.
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Hôtel Victoria Châtelet
Hôtel Victoria Châtelet is a hotel in the 1st arrondissement of Paris that is highly favored by many. The hotel is known for its stylish decor. The hotel rooms are colorfully decorated and equipped with a television, free wifi, a kettle, and a beautiful bathroom. This hotel also has elevators, which is a luxury in Paris.
The great thing about this hotel is its central location and the fact that the reception is open day and night. You can also park at the hotel and the rooms are smoke-free. Additionally, the staff are very helpful and provide a lot of information about the city.