Last Updated on August 30, 2023 by April | Dreaming in French
Are you looking for the best things to do in Le Marais, a neighborhood on Paris’ Right Bank? Then you’re in the right place!
One of Paris’s oldest neighborhoods is the Le Marais district. On the right bank of the Seine, Le Marais is a portion of what are now Paris’ Third and Fourth Arrondissements.
One of the things to do of any holiday to Paris is Le Marais. The best architecture, fascinating museums, beautiful gardens, inexpensive, trendy bars, charming cafés, and incredible clothing boutiques can all be found here.
The Jewish, Chinese, and LGBTQIA+ populations are just a few of the diverse communities that call this lovely area home. It is difficult to get bored in Le Marais with such an intriguing mixture!
Le Marais is the perfect area of Paris for flâneurs, people who roam around the city aimlessly to experience it.
So, you shouldn’t skip exploring this delightful area if you’re in Paris for a weekend or three days.
Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you. Merci!
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of things to do in Le Marais:
History of the Marais
The Marais meaning translates its name literally to a swamp. It was continuously submerged by the Seine until the 13th century.
The land was progressively transformed into a neighborhood. The old nobles had acquired control of the area by the late 15th century.
Henry IV created the opulent Places des Vosges in 1605 and gave it the name Place Royale. This served as the catalyst for the Marais’ transformation into a posh area.
The Marais had become a favorite hangout of the elite during the 17th and 18th centuries. The hotel particulars are the dozens of grand houses that the elites left behind. Later, the state purchased several of these beautiful residences, converting them into museums and cultural organizations.
The aristocrats left in the nineteenth century. The Marais evolved into a fairly grimy working-class neighborhood. During the 1960s, gentrification started.
The Marais established itself as the dominant gay neighborhood in Paris by the 1980s and Place des Vosges property values increased dramatically.
Le Marais Paris Map
How to Get to Le Marais
Metro lines 1, 7, 8, and 11 all service Le Marais. On each line, you can exit at the following stops:
- Line 1: Hôtel de Ville, Saint Paul and Bastille
- Line 7: Sully-Morland and Pont Marie
- Line 8: Chemin Vert, Filles du Calvaire, République
- Line 11: Hôtel de Ville, Rambuteau, Temple, République
Since Line 1 is the automatic line, you are covered even in the event of a transit strike!
Walking is the perfect way to explore the Marais and all of its charming nooks and crannies.
You might wish to reserve a guided Le Marais walking tour or a walking + tasting tour to make sure you don’t miss any.
Things To See in Le Marais
Here are the top places to see and activities to do in the Marais if you intend to stay there for a day. The neighborhood deserves a full day on your Paris itinerary, even though most tourists only spend a few hours there.
Visit the Picasso Museum
Address: 5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris
Ah, I enjoyed the Musée National Picasso in Paris. The stunning Baroque Hotel Sale serves as home to the namesake museum. It’s undoubtedly among the top things to do in the Marais for art enthusiasts.
The museum is home to the largest collection of Picasso artworks in existence. Picasso never sold any of the artwork in his personal collection during his lifetime.
The museum is arranged in chronological order. The progression of his artistic approaches and the succession of his tolerant female muses—Fernande Olivier, Olga Khoklova, Dora Maar, Marie Therese-Walter, Francoise Gilot, and Jacqueline Roque—will be visible to you as you walk. His love life and his art have always been linked.
The Picasso Museum is one of Paris’s most well-liked museums. You must reserve a skip the line ticket if you want to visit it without waiting in line. The Paris Pass includes admission as well.
Additionally, you can reserve a 2 hour skip the line private tour or a 2 hour small group guided tour of the museum.
You can also check out my recommended tours and activities in Le Marais in the widget below all offered by my favorite tour provider GetYourGuide.
Find Hôtel de Ville
Address: Pl. de l’Hôtel de Ville
Paris’s city hall is the Hôtel de Ville. Since 1357, this structure has served as the City Council’s headquarters.
In the late 19th century, it was reconstructed in the original Renaissance style after being completely destroyed by a fire started by French Commune fanatics in 1871. Instead of a government structure, it has a chateau-like appearance.
One of Paris’ most impressive Renaissance structures is the Hôtel de Ville. Numerous statues of well-known Parisians are used to embellish it. There is a huge clock in the main tower.
With the exception of special occasions or heritage day, you cannot enter the building.
Each year, the building is decorated for the holidays with a unique theme. It began to shimmer and becoming vivid blue in 2022. Kids can skate on an ice rink as well.
Additionally, one of Paris’ best Christmas markets may be found here. With no kitsch and only beautiful decorations, I thought it was the most lovely venue I visited in Paris.
Stroll Rue des Rosiers
The Marais’s medieval Jewish Quarter is centered on the pedestrianized Rue des Rosiers. It’s a vibrant urban community and the core of Marais cool.
Numerous falafel shops can be found there, where you may eat in or grab a meal to go at a reasonable price. On this particular Parisian street, eating while you stroll is completely okay.
L’As due Fallafel is by far the most well-known, and there is almost always a line there. They serve the greatest chickpea fritters, harissa, and falafel sandwiches.
Find Remnants of the 1190 Philippe Auguste Wall
The remnants of the late-12th-century city wall stand largely unappreciated and sandwiched by typical Parisian apartments. It was constructed on Philip II Augustus’ instructions to protect the city from the army of the Plantagenets while he was gone on the Third Crusade, and it is one of the few remaining examples of medieval Paris.
Another striking wall portion can be found near Lycée Charlemagne. With two towers and some remnants of crenellations, this is the longest preserved portion.
👉 READ NEXT: Butte aux Cailles: How to Explore the Beautiful Paris Neighborhood
Visit Eglise Saint-Gervais
Address: 13 Rue des Barres
A variety of architectural styles are present in the 1621-completed Eglise Saint-Gervais.
French Classicism served as an inspiration for the facade, which was created by Luxembourg Palace architect Salmon de Brosse. In each of the three major Ancient Greek orders, there are three tiers of columns. A pediment with a semi-circular shape tops the upper tier.
You should have a look inside at the Louis XIII-decorated golden chapel. The church’s organ is Paris’s oldest. There is a 30-minute Latin vespers held every Saturday.
Relax at Place des Vosges
Address: 6 Place des Vosges
One of Paris’ most picturesque locations is the Place des Vosges, which is arguably the top attraction in the Marais.
Henry IV came up with the idea for the grand square, which Louis XIII, who had moved in with Queen Anne of Austria, officially opened in 1612. It was formerly known as Place Royale and is currently Paris’s oldest square.
Following the king’s example, the aristocracy constructed the opulent houses that surround the area and give it a regal air. With their steeply sloping roofs, dormers, and arcaded passages, they are a wonderfully symmetrical vision of rose-toned brick and stone.
Victor Hugo lived in a house, which served as the prolific author’s pied-à-terre, is located at No. 6. After releasing his hugely popular book The Hunchback of Notre Dame at age 30, he relocated to the Place des Vosges and started composing Les Misérables.
Maison Victor Hugo, his former residence, is now a museum that the great author himself had furnished. Its purpose is to provide readers with a glimpse of Hugo’s way of life.
Enjoy the Anne Frank Garden
Address: 14 impasse Berthaud, 75003 Paris
This beautiful garden honors Anne Frank, a well-known Holocaust victim, and is located at 11 Impasse Berthaud in the heart of Paris. The park is open daily from 9am to 8pm and features passages from Anne’s diary.
Eat at Marché des Enfants Rouges
Address: 39 Rue de Bretagne Haut Marais
Off of Rue de Bretagne is the oldest covered market from the 17th century called the Marché des Enfants Rouges. It is Paris’s oldest market and is known for its organic foods and beverages.
Along with some well-known eateries like Bibo Vino, it boasts a wide variety of fresh fruit, vegetable, and meat stands.
It’s the ideal location for buying groceries or stopping for lunch in the Marais.
Learn About Paris’ History at Carnavalet Museum
Address: 16 Rue des Francs Bourgeois, 75003 Paris
“The museum of the city of Paris,” the Musée Carnavalet, will fascinate history aficionados. Located in the heart of the vibrant and museum-rich Marais district, it was Paris’ first municipal museum.
Designed by Renaissance architect Mansard, the structure was built between 1548 and 1560. The four seasons are represented in bas reliefs that adorn the courtyard. In the middle lies a statue of Louis XIV, one of the few bronze statues that was spared by the revolutionaries.
Since the mid-1800s, the Carnavalet has been recognized as a Monument Historique. Especially with a recent $65 million renovation, it’s fantastic. The renovation includes audio-visual displays, a new café in the garden, and a more logical chronological arrangement for the exhibitions.
See Nicholas Flamel’s House
Address: 51 rue de Montmorency
A rather peculiar stone mansion built in 1407 and covered in symbols can be found down a meandering cobblestone road. According to records, it is Paris’s oldest home. Today, a restaurant and hotel are located there.
However, the home was initially constructed by Nicolas Flamel, who according to legend was a well-known alchemist. Flamel is credited with creating the Philosopher’s Stone, a mystic artifact that could transform metal into gold. But he is a real person, not just a Victor Hugo or Harry Potter character.
In this home, Flamel carried out his research. Flamel may have used dark arts, but this has never been confirmed beyond a reasonable doubt. But there’s no doubt that he’s been the focus of obsession.
See Modern Art at Pompidou Center
Address: Place Georges Pompidou
Paris’ modern art museum is called the Pompidou Center. It’s one of the best things to do in the Marais, and in the bustling area of Beauburg.
The Pompidou, created by Renzo Piano, is renowned for its avant-garde “inside out” architecture and was first opened in 1977. 120,000 pieces of art are housed within the exoskeleton’s interior.
The best and most significant collection of modern art from the Golden Age, ranging from Fauvism to Pop Art, is found at the Pompidou in Europe. Along with modern masters, you can find pieces by Kandinsky, Rothko, Picasso, Pollack, Miro, Klee, Matisse, and Modigliani.
But you’ll also see a variety of media, including photography, installations, and experimental video. The sixth story, which also serves as an exhibition space and as the location of the St. George restaurant, a Parisian rooftop restaurant that offers breathtaking views of Paris.
You should either reserve a skip the line ticket in advance or be ready to wait in line.
Please note: After Paris hosts the Olympic Games in 2024, the Pompidou Centre is slated to close from 2024 to 2028 for multi-year repairs.
Walk down Rue Chapon
Walking down Rue Chapon, which is close to the Pompidou Centre, is one of the charming things to do and explore in Le Marais, Paris. Beautiful alleyways with galleries, vibrant murals, and Passage de l’Ancre can be found here.
There are several covered corridors in Paris, but Passage de l’Ancre is open air and absolutely charming. The ivy-covered buildings and even a sweet, still-operating umbrella repair shop may be seen on the cobblestone alley. Something you just don’t find in the US is an independent shop like this that repairs umbrellas that you can tell has been there for decades still operating. I love that this shop is still open and operating today.
While strolling around here, you nearly get the impression that you’ve left the city and been transferred to a small town in the middle of the countryside.
Flâner in Le Marais
One of the best things to do in Le Marais is the art of flânering, which involves walking and observing daily life in Paris. Give yourself plenty of time to relax at a café, stroll around a few galleries, check out a museum, and explore the winding, cobblestone alleyways in search of various hotels particuliers and stores.
A day in le Marais that is popular is Sunday, because many of the streets are closed to traffic.
Shop on Rue De Rivoli
Even though the Tuileries Garden and the Louvre offer some of the best Paris shopping, this entire street is packed with stores and numerous souvenir shops.
I went into BHV department store, a renowned and sizable department store in Le Marais, directly opposite from the Hôtel de Ville. One of my favorite local shops was La Chaise Longue, which offered a variety of amusing home accessories, and HEMA, which offered just about any tiny trinket you could imagine, from stationery to home decor, at reasonable costs.
I didn’t do a lot of shopping, but this is a great neighborhood to visit if you want to see one of the biggest department stores in Paris, which is easy to get lost in, as well as other interesting boutiques on the street.
Visit Eglise Saint-Paul Saint-Louis
Address: 99 Rue Saint-Antoine, 75004
You will understand why visiting this cathedral should be on your list of things to do in Le Marais once you go through the enormous and stunning crimson door.
Eglise Saint Paul Saint Louis, which was built between 1627 and 1641, was the first French church in Paris to use a Baroque architectural style, in contrast to other French churches in the gothic style.
The interior is just as appealing as the spectacular external architecture! On top of the beautiful sculptures that adorn its walls, there is a grand gallery organ from the 19th century that is worth viewing. You will also witness the stunning artwork “Christ in agony in the Garden of Olive Trees” by famed French painter Eugène Delacroix.
Le Marais Things to do Nearby
Nearby to the Marais are some more things to do that are worthwhile visiting.
Place de la Bastille
Address: Pl. de la Bastille, 75004 Paris
A former royal fortification and jail, the Bastille had eight towers and curtain walls. The structure, which stood for the oppression of the Bourbon kings, was destroyed by French revolutionaries in 1789.
Therefore, nothing of the ancient Bastille fortress is still visible, except for the cobblestone contour on the sidewalk that illustrates the enormous size of the structure.
The July Column, also known as the Colonna de Juillet, is present in the center. This 155-foot-tall monument commemorates the assault of the Bastille and the ensuing uprising of 1830 was built by Louis Philippe. It took its cue from Rome’s Trajan’s Column.
Nightlife is vibrant in the Bastille, especially on the Rue de Lappes. Additionally, it is home to the Opera Bastille, the primary opera venue in Paris with excellent acoustics.
Major fireworks displays and a procession along the Champs-Elysées are used in Paris to celebrate Bastille Day every year on July 14.
Bourse de Commerce
Address: 2 Rue de Viarmes
Paris’s newest and most popular museum, the Bourse du Commerce, debuted in May 2021. It has a nicely rebuilt edifice that houses the collection of French millionaire Francois Pinault.
The private museum underwent a $140 million makeover and renovation by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. A 3,000 square foot exhibition area is available.
5,000 pieces by artists like Cy Twombly, Cindy Sherman, Damian Hirst, and Jeff Koons are part of Pinault’s collection of modern art. Additionally, there are unique exhibitions.
Go straight to the top floor. It gives views of the Saint-Eustache church, the Centre Pompidou, and the roofs of Paris and looks out over the Jardin Nelson Mandela.
Click here to book a skip the line ticket.
Tour Saint-Jacques
Address: Square de la Tour Saint-Jacques
Built between 1509 and 1523, the Tour Saint-Jacques is a magnificent Gothic tower. The Saint-Jacques-de-la-Boucherie Church was completely demolished in 1797 as a result of the French Revolution, and this is the only trace that remains.
It is now a recognized National Historic Landmark. On Friday through Sunday, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, you can take a 40-minute guided tour up the tower for €12. The 300 steps to the top are covered in the 40-minute tours.
Best Le Marais Restaurants
There are several restaurants in Le Marais, but these are the ones you should eat at when all the exploring has worked up an appetite.
L’inaperçu
Address: 65 Rue Beaubourg, Paris, France
The new location for photography, art publications, and creative gastronomy is now known as the “Arty Corner” in the northern Marais. Between the Centre Pompidou and the Arts-et-Métiers, L’inaperçu openly proclaims the involvement and cultural influence of the Chinese population. Lunch and dinner are served at the Salon de thé-café-restaurant, which features an inventive menu with fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables.
L’Aller Retour Marais
Address: 5 Rue Charles-François Dupuis, 75003 Paris, France.
Visit L’Aller Retour Marais for a delicious home-roasted meat and wine pairing in a cozy and private setting. They emphasize great meals and top-notch service in addition to serving delectable wines. You’ll undoubtedly find something to suit your palate among the broad wine selection’s more than 100 different varietals.
Salento Marais
Address: 6 Rue de Jarente, 75004 Paris, France.
At Salento Marais, savor flavorful Italian cuisine combined with delectable drinks in a cozy retro-chic atmosphere. This restaurant offers hearty amounts of exquisitely prepared and delectable Salento-inspired cuisine that will satisfy both your eyes and your stomach. For a fantastic lunch under 20€ in this cozy, pleasant café filled with beautiful work by skilled photographers, I highly recommend Salento.
Best Bars in Le Marais
If you want to conclude your day with a drink in your hand, Le Marais is brimming with stylish bars, making your decision difficult. Here are several bars to think about to aid with your decision-making.
LE 153
Address: 153 Rue Saint-Martin, Paris, France
Le 153 is a fascinating combination of unique and creative life, offering not only inventive cocktails but also eating, wine, and beer venues, among other fascinating mysteries. Discover the three floors and each one’s distinct ambiance. Visit the cocktail bar Mixology, which is situated in the heart of a welcoming den, the ground-floor bar, which is proudly placed between wood and industrial furniture, the cavernous cellar with exposed stone, which has a few surprises, and the terrace.
Candelaria
Address: 52 Rue de Saintonge, 75003 Paris, France
Visit the speakeasy Candelaria in Le Marais for a taste of Mexico. The front of this stone-walled bar, which offers unique flavor combinations of tequila and mezcal in a lively ambiance with sporadic DJ visits, is a taqueria selling delectable tacos.
FAT.
Address: 8 Rue de Beauce, 75003 Paris, France.
French. Touch. Art! For fans of urban culture and hip-hop to get a drink, connect, and play beer pong, FAT. constructed a room covered in graffiti. A busy Parisian nightclub space adorned in pop art can be found downstairs.
Bisou
Address: 15 Bd du Temple, 75003 Paris, France.
A menu is unnecessary. Without a doubt, Bisou doesn’t. The mixologists will make it just how you like it if you tell them how. You can enjoy a diverse selection of handcrafted drinks made with ingredients grown in France here in a cozy setting.
Best Le Marais Hotels
Here are some of my suggestions for the top hotels in Marais if you’ve decided to base yourself in this hip area but are still unsure about where to stay.
Budget Accommodation
Hotel De La Bretonnerie offers all the comforts you’ll need without breaking the bank. The Picasso Museum and other prominent sites in the Le Marais district are nearby, and the 3-minute walk to Hôtel de Ville metro station makes it simple to travel to other parts of the city.
Mid-range Accommodation
Mareuil Paris, a boutique hotel offers lovely, modern rooms, some with views of the Paris rooftops, and is located close to the République metro station, between the Place des Vosges and the Centre Georges Pompidou. For a moderate price, you can indulge in expertly prepared cocktails at the on-site cocktail bar or unwind in the courtyard with an outdoor fireplace.
Luxury Accommodation
The height of luxury in Le Marais is Le Pavillon de la Reine. This five-star hotel, which is situated on the storied Place Des Vosges, combines unparalleled elegance with a prime location to provide you with the ideal district exploration base. The Chemin Vert Metro Station is a 4-minute walk from the property, and there are other amenities like a spa, hammam, and fitness center.
Apartment rental/Airbnb
For those who prefer an apartment to a standard hotel, Le Ferdinand – Le Marais Serviced Apartments offers eight distinctive, conveniently situated, and stylishly constructed apartments complete with antique-style decor and comfort features to suit your vacation needs. Additionally, the on-site Le Ferdinand Restaurant serves delectable modern fare whenever you become hungry.
FAQS About Visiting Le Marais In Paris
Is Le Marais Paris Worth Visiting?
For individuals who live in the area or are just passing through for the day, Le Marais has everything they might want. From the eccentric to hip cafes, restaurants, and bars, to shopping, the odd galleries, the museums, the architecture, the history, or simply to walk around Le Marais’ streets.
What is the Marais Neighborhood Known For?
The Marais has long been known as Paris’s Jewish neighborhood, and many of its streets are steeped in Jewish heritage. It is well known for its bakeries and kosher delis.
Today, Le Marais is well-known for its hip, LGBTQIA+ welcoming bars, funky, electric bars, historical sites, and its chic upscale shops.
What is the Prettiest Street in Marais Paris?
The maze-like streets of Le Marais are the ideal place for a stroll and getting lost. The streets of Rue Charlot, Rue Poitou, and Rue Bretagne are the prettiest.
What are Things to do in Le Marais?
The Hotel de Ville, Maison de Victor Hugo, Place Des Vosges, BHV Marais, Centre Pompidou, and Musée Carnavalet are among the must-see attractions of Le Marais. To learn more about the others, read the entire article.
Is Le Marais a Good Place To Stay?
Absolutely! The neighborhood is safe, convenient for most Paris attractions, and has a variety of accommodations for all types of visitors.
Is Le Marais Safe?
Although some areas have seen an increase in crime, the historic heart of Paris still has exceptionally low crime rates. Strong restrictions on the possession of firearms and other weapons have made city-wide crime essentially non-violent. This neighborhood, which is also among the most elite and residential, is safe at all times.
What to Do in Le Marais at Night?
In Paris, there is a thriving nightlife. It is challenging to offer specific guidance because it changes constantly! You can discover daily recommendations in newspapers that you can either buy throughout the city or pick up for free in the cafés and bars, in addition to the regular and well-established clubs and cabarets.
The most useful publications to learn what is happening and where to go are undoubtedly L’ officiel des spectacles, which can be found in any bookstore. Pick up the free publications like Qweek, where you’ll find a lot of addresses if you want to go out to the gay clubs.
Final Thoughts on the Best Things To Do in Le Marais
Le Marais is a must-visit neighborhood since it is home to a variety of fascinating historical sites, cutting-edge museums, cafés, and specialty shops. With so many things to do in Le Marais, the experience there will be one to remember!
Leave a Reply