Whenever speaking of Paris, the Marais seems to be a word that hangs on everyone’s lips — sounding like a mysterious, trendy and maze-like area. That is exactly what the neighbourhood offers, with cobbled-stoned streets leading to hidden courtyards and secret squares. Because of this, I believe that the Marais truly captures what the city is all about: bohemian, romantic and secretive — a bit like a Paris within Paris.
In terms of arrondissements, the Marais is both in the 3rd and the 4th — and so you may also want to look at our guide to the 3rd arrondissement.
It has absolutely everything you could possibly dream of, from charming little restaurants to trendy shops, to hidden gardens and historic house museums … everyone will find something to do or to see in Paris’ 4th arrondissement!
So let’s take a look at our guide to the Marais, the 4th arrondissement of Paris and where to visit, eat and stay.
The Marais Paris : Location, location, location
Located on the right bank of the Seine, the Marais feels both intimate and infinite, with some of the most iconic views of Paris, including the impressive Hôtel de Ville, the intimate Place des Vosges, and the quaint Île Saint-Louis, filled with galleries, small boutiques and coffee shops.
It feels very much out of time, with carved stone doorways leading to small courtyards covered in climbing ivy. But there are also some of the best cafés, boutiques, cocktail bars and art galleries in town — infusing the neighbourhood with a modern feel.
Insider Tip: Now, when it comes to exploring this neighbourhood, it’s best to do it by foot! And since the streets are mostly cobbled-stoned, it’s best to wear flat and confortable shoes (you’ll thank me later!).
1. Things to do in the Marais
There’s no shortage of things to do in the Marais — but the real pleasure lies in wandering aimlessly. I would say the best place to begin a visit of the Marais is the Place des Vosges. It is the oldest square in Paris, built under the reign of Henri IV in the early 17th century. The central garden is quiet and clean, with people lingering on the lawn as soon as there is a sunny day, picnicking or sketching. Bordering the Place des Vosges is also Victor Hugo’s old apartment (at number 6), so any fans of the French writer, author of Les Misérables, will be able to get a sneak peek into his life — as well as enjoy a multitude of traditional French restaurants, including the famous La Place Royale and the Café Carette for a coffee with a view.
It’s technically in both the 3rd and the 4th arrondissements and if you walk all the way around it, you’ll visit both !
From the square, head down the Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, one of the district’s liveliest streets, filled with small boutiques, galleries and little coffee shops. If you like a cozy vibe, head over to the Griffon for an excellent chai latte and carrot cake.
Just around the corner from there is the Musée Carnavalet, which tells the story of Paris through paintings, models, and artefacts that trace the city’s evolution from medieval to modern — and it is free (as are most museums in the Marais!).
One of the main attractions of the Marais is the Rue des Rosiers, the heart of the historic Jewish quarter — and home to one of the most popular falafel stands in the city (the line is always down the road).
In the Marais, you can also find the Picasso-Paris National Museum which offers an un-rivaled look into Pablo Picasso’s prolific life and work. With over 5,000 pieces, it’s a must for art lovers.
Another must see is the Musée des Arts et Métiers on rue Réaumur. The museum itself showcases the history of different technologies and inventions in various fields. Things that you will see there are Foucault’s Pendulum, Lavoisier’s chemistry lab and even some of Pascal’s calculating machines!
In the 4th arrondissement, you will also find the bold façade of the Centre Pompidou, France’s most famous museum of contemporary art, as well as the Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis, two islands in the Seine.
Insider Tip: If you visit the Centre Pompidou, make sure to head up to the rooftop. Even if you don’t tour the museum, the café-restaurant offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris — perfect at sunset.
2. Where to shop in The Marais
For anyone who likes fashion, the Marais is filled with small boutiques of independent designers, outlet stores and thrift shops — many of which are on Rue Vieille-du-Temple and Rue Charlot.
If you love discovering small French brands, wander down Rue Vieille-du-Temple around opening time (usually 10:30–11:00). The area gets busy later, but early mornings feel wonderfully calm — ideal for browsing without the crowds.
If you need a break from the crowds surrounding the shops, you can head to the Jardin des Rosiers–Joseph Migneret, which offers a secluded green space tucked behind high stone walls — perfect for a coffee or reading break between two shops !
Insider Tip: Many boutiques and museums close on Mondays — so make sure to plan accordingly!
3. Where to eat and drink in The Marais
Now onto food ! Where to eat and drink in the Marais?
As mentioned above, L’As du Fallafel on Rue des Rosiers is a popular lunch spot. There’s always a queue so be prepared to be patient but if it’s a sunny day, why not take one to eat on the square of the Place des Vosges?
If you don’t fancy queuing, there are plenty of crêperies and bakeries in the area, such as Breizh Café (Rue Vieille-du-Temple). This is a cult favourite for Breton crêpes made with organic ingredients — perfect for lunch or an early dinner.
When it comes to dinner you could try Glou for effortless French comfort food, or Les Foodies for contemporary fusion in a chic setting. And if you’re in the mood for cocktails, Little Red Door — known for its inventive menu and intimate ambience — is one of the most acclaimed bars in Paris.”
Insider Tip: Many popular restaurants in the Marais don’t take reservations, especially in the evenings. Plan to arrive early (around 7 pm) to avoid long waits.
4. Insider tips for visiting The Marais, Paris
There is no best time to visit the Marais, each season offering a unique experience. To get there, hop off the métro at Saint-Paul, Hôtel de Ville, or Chemin Vert, as each one will drop you off at the heart of the neighbourhood.
If you really want to explore the Marais fully, allow at least a full day — maybe two if you can — it’s really worth taking the time to delve into each hidden little square.
The Marais is also known as the artsy neighbourhood so as you wander down the quiet streets, make sure you keep an eye out for murals and other art exhibitions.
Insider Tip : If you’re visiting on a Sunday, the Marais is one of the few Parisian neighbourhoods where most boutiques remain open — making it one of the best days to explore.
Where to Stay in The Marais
When choosing where to stay in the Marais, a multitude of choices appear. Boutique hotels like Pavillon de la Reine (hidden behind ivy-covered façades on Place des Vosges) offer understated luxury, while Hôtel Bourg Tibourg channels a moodier, more poetic atmosphere.
For a modern touch, Hôtel du Petit Moulin, designed by Christian Lacroix, mixes eccentric style with historic charm. It is on the site of the oldest bakery in Paris and legend has it that French writer Victor Hugo, who lived on the Place des Vosges, used to come here to get his bread.
If you prefer independence, chic apartments near Rue des Archives or Rue du Temple make perfect bases for exploring both the 3rd and 4th arrondissements on foot.
If you’re looking for more options, you could try :
- Hôtel Caron de Beaumarchais: a charming, romantic boutique hotel inspired by the 18th-century writer Beaumarchais — perfect for couples.
- Le Grand Mazarin : at the corner of rue de la Verrerie and rue des Archives, this hotel has a spa and pool.
- Hôtel Jacques de Molay: a stylish but more affordable option, located in a quiet side street close to great cafés, shops and galleries.
Final words on our Guide to the Marais, the 4th arrondissement of Paris : What to do and Where to stay
To walk through the Marais is a bit like being Owen Wilson in Midnight in Paris — it’s like stepping back into the past. But staying there is realising that the neighbourhood is not just a museum of the past, but a living, breathing quartier, with 17th-century mansions now housing contemporary galleries and in this small pocket of the 4th arrondissement, Paris reveals what it does best: reinventing itself while remaining utterly, unmistakably timeless.
Are you planning a trip to the Marais? Let us know your favorite spots or what you’re most excited to see!
I hope you enjoyed this feature about Guide to the 4th arrondissement of Paris, and don’t forget to check out our other Paris guides as well as our favourite tranquil retreats and hidden gems in Paris and the best places for a day trip or weekend getaway that are just 2 hours from the French Capital.
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