1st arrondissement Travel Guide

Explore the best museums, outdoor adventures, tours, food, and culture with our week-long itinerary in 1st arrondissement. Learn safety tips, where to stay, how to get around, and nearby destinations to visit.


Introduction to 1st Arrondissement

Paris is the epitome of a romantic and cultural European city, and the 1st arrondissement is no exception. It is the smallest arrondissement in Paris, located in the heart of the city, and bursting with some of the most iconic landmarks and attractions. From the Louvre Museum to the Jardin des Tuileries, 1st arrondissement is ideal for both budget and luxury travelers as there are plenty of free or affordable options to explore.

List of Places to Visit in 1st Arrondissement

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The 1st arrondissement is famous for its art and historical sites, making it a haven for history buffs and art enthusiasts. Some of the must-visit museums and historical sites include:

  • The Louvre Museum: Home to over 35,000 works of art from across the world, including the Mona Lisa, The Winged Victory of Samothrace, and Venus de Milo.
  • The Palais Royal: A former royal residence featuring picturesque gardens and impressive architecture, including the Colonnes de Buren.
  • Sainte-Chapelle: A stunning Gothic-style royal chapel famous for its 13th-century stained-glass windows.

Natural Attractions of 1st Arrondissement: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

While 1st arrondissement may be small, it doesn’t lack stunning natural attractions. Here are some of the best outdoor activities and scenic views to explore:

  • The Jardin des Tuileries: A beautiful garden in the heart of Paris that sits between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde.
  • Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel: A stunning monument located in the Jardin des Tuileries, a smaller version of the famous Arc de Triomphe.
  • The Seine River: A must-do river cruise where you can enjoy stunning views of the city’s famous landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Hiking/Biking Routes of 1st Arrondissement

1st arrondissement is small, limiting hiking and biking routes within its boundaries. However, the banks of the Seine River offer an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or bike ride with fantastic views of the city.

Best Things to Do in 1st Arrondissement: Activities and Tours

1st arrondissement offers plenty of activities and tours for tourists to indulge in. These include:

  • Guided tours of the Louvre Museum and Palais Royal
  • Walking tours of the historic streets and buildings in the area
  • A food tour, exploring the local cuisine, and sampling delicacies such as escargot and patisserie.

Week-Long Itinerary for 1st Arrondissement

Day 1: Spend the day exploring the iconic Louvre Museum, home to some of the world’s most beloved masterpieces.

Day 2: Take a guided tour of the Palais Royal and then stroll through the neighborhood’s narrow bustling streets to Galleria Vivienne, one of Paris’s most charming covered passages.

Day 3: Visit the Sainte-Chapelle, the stunning Gothic chapel, and take a stroll through the Jardin des Tuileries.

Day 4: Take a cruise on the Seine River and enjoy the stunning views of the city landmarks.

Day 5: Visit the Musée de l’Orangerie, showcasing Claude Monet’s famous Water Lilies paintings and other Impressionist masterpieces.

Day 6: Explore the historic streets of 1st arrondissement on a guided walking tour and end with a food tasting tour discovering the city’s culinary delights.

Day 7: Walk along the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, the most famous avenue in Paris, and witness the vibrant nightlife of the city.

Food and Drink Scene of 1st Arrondissement

Must-Try Dishes

The 1st arrondissement of Paris is renowned for its gastronomic delights. Some of the must-try dishes in the area are:

  • Escargots de Bourgogne: A traditional French dish consisting of snails served baked in garlic butter.
  • Croissant: A flaky, buttery pastry originating from France.
  • Patisserie: A collection of French pastries, including macarons, éclairs, and mille-feuille.

Local Beverages

Paris is not only famous for its wine but its aperitifs and spirits as well. Be sure to try:

  • Kir: A typical French aperitif made from crème de cassis and white wine.
  • Pastis: An aniseed-flavored drink popular in the south of France.
  • Champagne: A world-famous sparkling wine, originating from the Champagne region of France.

Where to Stay in 1st Arrondissement: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The 1st arrondissement is the hub of Paris’s tourism and offers a wide range of accommodation options. Some of our top picks include:

  • Grand Hotel du Palais Royal: A luxurious 5-star hotel offering rooms with stunning views of the Palais Royal.
  • Hotel Britannique Paris: A charming boutique hotel situated in a 19th-century building, offering a unique and authentic experience.
  • Hotel Bachaumont: A stylish, modern hotel with trendy decor and exceptional service

What to Buy in 1st Arrondissement: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Paris is renowned for its fashion, beauty products, and souvenirs. Some of the best locally sourced souvenirs and items to bring back with you include:

  • Beret: A traditional French hat made of wool and worn by many Parisians.
  • Perfume: France is famous for its perfume, and Le Bon Marché is a notable place to purchase quality scents.
  • Gourmet food: Buy local delicacies from reputable shops such as foie gras, artisanal cheeses, chocolates, and wine.

Local Culture and Customs of 1st Arrondissement

Parisians are proud of their rich culture, history, and cuisine. In France, it is customary to say “Bonjour” and “Au revoir” when entering and leaving a store or restaurant. It is also polite to greet people before asking for assistance. Most Parisians speak English, but learning basic French phrases can show that you respect their culture when interacting with locals.

Best Time to Visit 1st Arrondissement

June and July are the peak tourist season in Paris. However, visiting during autumn (September to November) or spring (March to May) can provide the perfect weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable hotel rates.

Do’s and Don’ts of 1st Arrondissement

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and wine.
  • Respect the French culture and customs.
  • Visit the famous landmarks and museums in the area.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly in public or on public transportation.
  • Dress inappropriately when visiting religious and cultural landmarks.
  • Touch art or artifacts in the museums and historical sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in 1st Arrondissement

Overall, 1st arrondissement has a low crime rate, but tourists should be aware of pickpockets, especially around tourist hotspots. Stay alert and keep your belongings close.

Health in 1st Arrondissement

Medical facilities and hospitals are easily accessible in Paris. In case of any emergencies, dial 112 to reach the emergency services in France.

Getting to 1st Arrondissement: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near 1st Arrondissement

Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris Orly Airport are the two primary international airports in Paris, with many options for direct and connecting flights to major cities worldwide.

Bus Stations Near 1st Arrondissement

Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est are two popular bus stations in Paris, providing a convenient way to access the city’s landmark, including the 1st arrondissement.

Other Options

Paris has an extensive Metro system, with several lines providing easy access to the 1st arrondissement. Taxis and Uber are also readily available in the city.

How to Get Around in 1st Arrondissement

1st arrondissement is small and compact enough to explore on foot. You can also use bicycles, the metro, and buses to navigate the area.

Where to Go Next from 1st Arrondissement: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Paris is an excellent hub for exploring other stunning French cities and towns such as Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel, Giverny, and Fontainebleau. Versailles is a popular day trip from Paris, featuring the Château de Versailles, once home to King Louis XIV, and beautiful gardens.

Conclusion

1st arrondissement in Paris offers an array of activities from visiting museums and historical sites to indulging in local gastronomic delights. With stunning views, vibrant nightlife, and a rich cultural heritage, it’s the perfect destination for any traveler looking to experience the best that Paris has to offer.

''Quartiers'' of the 1st arrondissement ''Quartiers'' of the 1st arrondissement Schematic of metro and RER lines in and around the 1st arrondissement Schematic of metro and RER lines in and around the 1st arrondissement Le Palais Royal Le Palais Royal Bourse de commerce Bourse de commerce Musée des Arts Décoratifs Musée des Arts Décoratifs Forum des Halles Forum des Halles Jardin des Tuilleries is a popular place to sit down and relax even in the colder months Jardin des Tuilleries is a popular place to sit down and relax even in the colder months The Louvre The Louvre Interior of Saint-Eustache Interior of Saint-Eustache Window in Sainte Chapelle Window in Sainte Chapelle Place Vendôme with the ''Colonne'' Place Vendôme with the ''Colonne''