Paris is divided into special neighbourhoods, called arrondissement in French, each with its own peculiarities that give it a distinct identity. Le Marais is the 4th arrondissement situated on the land along the right bank of the Seine, once marshy and in fact, from here derives its name, "Le Marais", which in English means marsh. This neighborhood is considered one of the most fascinating and interesting districts of Paris. The places to visit are numerous when walking through this neighborhood: churches, museums, and works of different nature, but one of its most fascinating components for tourists is the perfect mix between styles and cultures. A visit to Le Marais is not only a visit, but also a real travel experience.
How to get to Le Marais
Le Marais is on the right bank of the Seine, known as the Rive Droite. Its perimeter extends between l'Hôtel de Ville, Place de la Bastille and Place de la République, and to the south, it is defined by the Seine. Marais is a large neighbourhood which has significant differences from one area to another. To get there by metro, you can get off at the Rambuteau stop on line 11 (brown), at the République stop on lines 3,5,8,9 and 11, at the Sully stop on line 7 (pink) and at the Saint Paul stop on line 1 (yellow). Obviously the choice of line is directly related to the choice of the first stage of the tour you have thought or imagined going through. On the other hand, it is nice to walk around this district even without a specific goal, as it is all beautiful and to be discovered. To make your experience unique, book a English-speaking guide who can guide you in your discoveries so that you don't miss any aspect or angle of this wonderful arrondissement. Book now by filling out the form in our section English Private Guide.
The highlights of Le Marais
In le Marais area, time seems to have stood still: museums, hotels and many buildings from the early nineteenth century are part of it. But there are also numerous breweries and restaurants. It is a particularly active area throughout the day and into the early hours of the morning. It is also famous throughout Europe as one of the biggest meeting points for gays. Speaking more in detail of the attractions that absolutely must not be missed, we can name: the Hôtel de Soubise-Archives nationales, the Picasso museum, the Hôtel Carnavalet and the famous Place de Vosges. But the area is really all about walking and it would be wonderful to see other attractions such as the Hôtel d'Avaux, the hunting and nature museum, the Cognacq-Jay Museum (free admission), the Hôtel de Lamoignon, the Hôtel de Ville and the building dedicated to the martyred twins Saint Gervais and Saint Protais.
For those who love to shop
Between a visit to a museum and a visit to a historic palace, the Marais also allows for original shopping. In fact, there are two places somewhat off the tourist map, Rue du Pont Louise Philippe and Le Village Saint Paul, where all shopping enthusiasts can indulge their passion. Rue du Pont Philippe, located nearby between the Rue de Rivoli and the Seine, is home to many specialised wine cellars where you can find original objects such as: jewellery made from ecological materials, photographic galleries, handmade bags made in France and much more. In the Village Saint Paul, composed of Rue de l'Ave Maria, Rue Charlemagne, Rue Saint Paul and Rue des Jardins de Saint Paul, you can stroll among traditional cellars, artisan workshops and antique shops.
