If cobblestone streets, medieval courtyards and chic boutiques sound like your dream Parisian setting, then the Marais is the perfect place to spend a day – or many more. This beloved Right Bank neighborhood blends centuries-old architecture with a fresh, modern energy. It’s where we love to wander, shop, linger over long lunches and enjoy the lived-in charm that makes the Marais one of the most popular neighborhoods of Paris.
The Marais really has it all: historic mansions, secret gardens, cozy cafés, creative concept stores and a food scene that rivals any arrondissement in Paris. And when you stay in one of our carefully curated Paris Perfect vacation rentals in the Marais, you’ll experience it all like a true local, just steps from your front door.
History Around Every Corner
The Marais is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, and it shows in the best way possible. Every winding street feels like a story, and there’s so much beautifully preserved architecture. Take a stroll past grand hôtels particuliers (former aristocratic mansions), many of which now house some of the city’s most captivating museums. Favorites include the Musée Carnavalet dedicated to the history of Paris, the Musée National Picasso and the unique Maison de Victor Hugo.
The Musée Picasso is one of the artistic gems of Paris.
Don’t miss a walk through Place des Vosges, Paris’s oldest planned square. Surrounded by elegant arcades and tucked-away art galleries, it’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down and soak it all in. While you’re there, pop into Carette for a sampling of macarons or a velvety hot chocolate. Yes, it can be a little touristy, but the treats (especially their chouquettes) and views are worth every sip and bite.
This neighborhood once belonged to the aristocracy, and you can still feel that old-world charm in its peaceful courtyards and refined façades, even as it hums with the energy of modern-day Paris.
Walk through the history of Paris at the Musée Carnavalet.
To dive deeper into the rich architectural and cultural tapestry of the Marais, plan a guided walking tour led by a local expert. You’ll uncover centuries of history through landmarks like the Hôtel de Soubise, Hôtel de Sens, Hôtel de Donon and, of course, Place des Vosges. It’s a wonderful way to explore the area’s evolution from aristocratic enclave to one of the city’s most vibrant and diverse neighborhoods.
Boutique Shopping & Parisian Style
Start on Rue des Francs-Bourgeois for a stylish mix of everyday French labels and upscale boutiques. Then weave your way through Rue Vieille du Temple and Rue des Rosiers, where you’ll find everything from vintage gems to cult-favorite concept stores. Here are just a few of our favorite spots:
- Le Bijou Parisien: A fresh, design-forward brand inspired by urban life and the metro stations of Paris. Their sleek pieces are as cool as they are collectible.
- Fragonard: This family-run perfume house has been crafting beautiful fragrances in Grasse since 1926. Alongside their signature scents, you’ll find colorful home goods and the prettiest pillowcases that are perfect gifts for yourself or someone back home.
- Merci: No trip to the Marais is complete without a stop at this iconic concept store. It’s a treasure trove of curated fashion, home decor and accessories with a café tucked inside and its Insta-famous red Fiat parked out front.
Foodie Favorites
The Marais is a haven for food lovers, where it seems every corner has a tempting café, creative bakery or time-tested bistro. Start your day with a baguette or flaky pastry from a local boulangerie and settle in at a café for some classic Paris people-watching.
One can’t-miss stop is the Marché des Enfants-Rouges, Paris’s oldest covered market. Inside, you’ll find everything from Japanese bento boxes to Moroccan tagines and fresh organic crêpes. Keep an eye out near the entrance for the local artist who creates whimsical sculptures out of old books. He’s a longtime neighborhood fixture, and his work is one-of-a-kind. Just outside, you’ll often find pop-up brocantes (flea markets) perfect for treasure hunting.
Shop at the Marché des Enfants-Rouges.
Hungry yet? Here are a few of our favorite neighborhood spots:
- Brigat Paris: A stylish, modern boulangerie serving exceptional loaves. The brioche feuilletée is a must, and while the baguettes are delicious, it’s the specialty breads that truly shine.
- Le Trumilou: Looking for an authentic Parisian bistro with a local vibe? Head here. It’s cozy, unfussy and reliably delicious. Just the way we like it!
- Le Carreau: A warm, welcoming bistro with a “fait maison” (house-made) philosophy. Their team works with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients to create a menu that fuses French classics with Asian influences. The natural wine and craft cocktail list is just as thoughtful as the food, and the friendly staff make you feel right at home.
Enjoy a stroll along the Seine through the historic heart of Paris!
A Walkable & Wonderful Location in Paris
One of the best parts about staying in the Marais? You’re incredibly well-connected. Walk to the Seine, explore Île Saint-Louis and admire the Gothic grandeur of Notre-Dame. From there, you’re just steps from the Left Bank and the beauty of Saint-Germain. Don’t miss our self-guided walking tour from Place Dauphine to the Left Bank for an inspiring route through history.
Or try this beautiful walk through the historic heart of Paris, perfect for soaking in the architecture, gardens and hidden corners that make this part of the city so magical. And with several metro stations nearby, it’s easy to venture farther – from the Louvre and Opéra to the Eiffel Tower and beyond.
A gorgeous stay right in the heart of Marais at the Lillet.
Where to Stay
Paris Perfect offers a curated collection of beautiful vacation rentals right in the heart of the Marais. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with comfort and style in mind with fully equipped kitchens, elegant interiors and windows that open to charming Parisian views.
You won’t believe the gorgeous panoramic from the Jurançon penthouse!
Whether you’re traveling solo, planning a romantic getaway or bringing the whole family, we have the perfect apartment to match your Parisian dreams. Ready to fall in love with the Marais? Browse our available rentals here and start planning your stay in one of Paris’s loveliest neighborhoods.
