7 Things to Do in Paris’ Trendiest District, the Marais
The Marais is one of the chicest areas of Paris. Formerly the neighborhood of France’s finest aristocrats, today it’s known for it’s array of modern boutiques, Instagram-worthy restaurants, and eccentric nightlife.
Here are a few things that are worth experiencing in this district.
- Go shopping
The Marais arguably has the best shopping in Paris. Why? There’s something there for everyone. From small, trendy concept stores with one-of-a-kind pieces, to giant department stores, to vintage shops with designer second hand clothes you can’t find anywhere else.
2. Taste falafel in the Jewish District
Take a walk down Rue de Rosiers in the Marais and you will find world-famous falafel joints like L’as Du Fallafel, a favorite of food critics, bloggers, and celebrities alike.
3. Indulge in Jewish pastries
Part of the Marais is known as the Jewish District, so it makes sense that they have the best kosher desserts in all of Paris. On Rue de Rosiers, you can find cafes and restaurants serving these traditional delicious sweets.
4. Get artsy at Centre Pompidou
This is Paris’ Museum of Modern Art and definitely worth a visit, even if only to see the amazing skyline view from the top floor. There are over 50,000 pieces of art in this giant gallery, making it one of the largest collections in Europe. The architecture is unique and contemporary, with the building’s exposed structure which is even color-coded (escalators are red, electricity is yellow, and plumbing is green).
5. Take a stroll in Places des Vosges
Places des Vosges used to be known as the royal square. Aristocrats like Louis XIII used to live along this square; many of these homes have been turned into museums, while the rest of them are still nice to admire from the outside.
6. Explore the LGBT nightlife
The Marais also happens to be one of the gay-friendliest districts of Paris. Take a stroll around here at night and you’ll find a plethora of options for where to spend your night.
7. Walk back in time in the historic mansions
In the 1500–1700’s, the Marais was home to the elite French aristocracy. Today you can find what’s left of those lavish mansions and courtyards. While there’ve been changes to this district over the years, the Marais is one of the few areas that were left untouched by Haussmann. Because of that, this area is one of the most historic and original-looking places in Paris.
If you want to get to know the Marais more intimately, firebnb offers exclusive discounts on Airbnb listings throughout the district.
