The Marais district, both romantic and lively, is an essential district worth discovering in the capital. This article will suggest some activities for you to explore in this iconic district.
Place des Vosges
This tranquil spot offers the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or to relax and take in the view.
Furthermore, the sumptuous private mansions surrounding it were converted into museums, like the Picasso Museum for example.
What we love:
- Captivating museums
- One of Paris’ most elegant squares
- Green spaces perfect for relaxing
Information (Website in French)
Carnavalet Museum
23 Rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris
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The Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, is housed in two magnificent town houses in the Marais district.
Here you will discover collections tracing the development of the capital, with works ranging from prehistory to the present day.
Art lovers will appreciate its exceptional paintings, sculptures, objets d’art and furniture.
The visit also includes immersive spaces, such as reconstructions of Parisian interiors through the ages.
What we love:
- A fascinating dive into the history of Paris
- The museum’s architecture and tranquil gardens
Eataly
37 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004 Paris
This establishment combines both an Italian grocery store with a bustling restaurant area.
As a very popular destination, it offers a large choice of products perfect for cooking some delicious Italian meals with authentic ingredients, or you can just sit there and eat.
What we love:
- The diversity of flavors and Italian products available in the same place.
Web site (Website in French)
Centre Georges Pompidou
Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris
The Centre Georges Pompidou hosts collections of modern and contemporary art, as well as a cinema and library. Its singular architectural structure will amaze you for sure.
What we love:
- Modern and contemporary works of art
- The movie theater
- The panoramic view of Paris from the roof terrace
Website (Website in French)
Saint-Paul-Saint-Louis Church
99 Rue Saint-Antoine, 75004 Paris
Built in the 17th century, this Baroque building boasts an imposing dome and magnificent stained glass windows.
Commissioned by Louis XIII, the church reflects the power of French royalty.
Its richly decorated interior houses a famous painting by Delacroix.
What we love:
- Its unique Baroque architecture
- The church’s peaceful setting in the heart of the Marais district
Information (website in French)
Rue Vieille du Temple
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Located in the heart of the Marais, this historic street is packed with trendy boutiques, art galleries and restaurants.
It offers a picturesque stroll between old buildings and modern shops.
It’s also a great place to discover the district’s bohemian charm.
What we love:
- The lively atmosphere and many trendy addresses
- Contemporary art galleries
Rue du Trésor
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Small and hidden, Rue du Trésor is a charming pedestrian street, ideal for getting lost and escaping the hustle and bustle of Paris for a while.
Its colorful facades and cafés make it a popular spot for local residents.
What we love:
- The intimate, picturesque atmosphere
- Its little cafés to linger in
Rue des Rosiers
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With its quaint cobbled lanes and historic stone façades, this charming street beckons for exploration and is truly a must-see destination.
What we love:
- An enchanting street
- The Lebanese restaurant on this street
Information (Website in French)
Rue des Barres
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A charming little cobbled street, Rue des Barres is an invitation to step back in time.
It offers a breathtaking view of the Saint-Gervais church and its well-preserved medieval buildings.
In summer, it’s a pleasant place for a quiet stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the tourist trade.
What we love:
- Its calm, authentic atmosphere
- The proximity of Saint-Gervais church
Rue des Francs-Bourgeois
A shopper’s paradise, Rue des Francs-Bourgeois is packed with fashion, jewelry and accessories boutiques.
It runs through one of the most beautiful pedestrian areas in the Marais, making it an ideal place to stroll while discovering the architecture of the town houses.
What we love:
- Chic shopping in the heart of the Marais
- The beauty of the surrounding architecture
Dans le noir ?
51 R. Quincampoix, 75004 Paris
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Recognized as one of the ten most unusual restaurants in the world, this spot has a unique concept: eating in the dark.
The main goal is to rediscover the pleasure of tasting through seasonal and creative cuisine while exploring sense in a deeper way. This intimate experience strengthens the bonds between customers.
Dans le noir ? also offers a “sensory space” featuring tasting workshops, olfactory lessons and oenological activities, as well as an escape game entirely immersed in the dark.
What we love:
- The unique sensory experience of eating in total darkness
- Service provided by visually impaired or blind waiters
Web site (Website in French)
Musée de l’Illusion
98 Rue Saint-Denis, 75001 Paris
A museum containing more than 70 brain-bending illusions. It’s a unique experience!
What we love:
- An original experience
- France’s first illusion museum
Temple des Marais
17 Rue Saint-Antoine, 75004 Paris
This singular monument is absolutely worth a visit, or at least a walk by to check the outside for its architecture and unique aesthetic.
What we love:
- The ancient style of the stone
Website (Website in French)
Musée national Picasso
5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris
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This museum contains the largest collection of Picasso’s work in the world.
It’s a great way to find out more about this legendary painter and experience his world famous works.
What we love:
- The expansive collection of works of art
Marché des Enfants Rouges
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Being one of the oldest markets in Paris, you’ll discover a stall full of fresh products.
It’s enough to make your mouth water and make you want to cook!
What we love:
- A beautiful covered market
- A pleasant place to visit
(Website in French)
Hôtel de Sully
62 Rue Saint-Antoine, 75004 Paris
Built in the 17th century, this town house is a perfect example of classical Parisian architecture.
Surrounded by superb formal gardens, it is now home to the Caisse Nationale des Monuments Historiques.
Visitors can walk through the courtyard directly to the Place des Vosges.
What we love:
- The tranquillity of its gardens
- The elegant architecture and beautiful proportions of the hotel
Hôtel de Ville
Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, 75004 Paris
The Hôtel de Ville, the seat of the Paris City Council, is a magnificent neo-Renaissance building.
You can admire its richly decorated façade, visit its rooms for events or simply enjoy the outdoor entertainment, particularly in summer with the festivals, or in winter with the ice rink.
What we love:
- The exhibitions and cultural events, many of which are free
- The grandeur of the architecture
Information (website in French)
The House of Nicolas Flamel
49 Rue de Montmorency, 75003 Paris
If you’re a fan of alchemy, this house is made for you!
Legend has it that the house of Nicolas Flamel, renowned as the greatest alchemist of all time, remains an enduring symbol of his legacy.
If you want to know more about it and immerse yourself in a historical atmosphere, this is the perfect place.
You can also enjoy a delicious meal in the inn located in the same building.
What we love:
- The legend of Nicolas Flammel
Website (Website in French)
House of Victor Hugo
6 Place des Vosges, 75004 Paris
This house, where Victor Hugo lived for 16 years, is now a museum dedicated to the life of the writer.
Here you can discover his world through personal objects, manuscripts and reconstructions of his various flats.
What we love:
- Discovering the private life of one of France’s greatest writers
- The privileged location on the Place des Vosges
Le BHV Marais
52 Rue de Rivoli, 75004 Paris
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The BHV Marais is one of Paris’s iconic department stores.
Here you’ll find everything from fashion to home decoration and electrical goods.
Its rooftop also offers a breathtaking view of Paris and the Marais district.
What we love:
- The variety of products on offer
- The exceptional view from the terrace
Information (website in French)
LeGay Choc
33 Rue Rambuteau, 75004 Paris
This small artisanal bakery is well known for its naughty pastries, a visit is a must if you want to sample these revisited classics.
What we love:
- The proposed creations
- The craftsmanship
La Mutinerie
176-178 rue Saint-Martin, 75003 Paris
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La Mutinerie is a queer-feminist bar run by women for women, whether straight, lesbian, queer, bisexual or transgender.
Its diversified program includes concerts, lectures, DJ sets, community events, performances, writing workshops, drag shows, screenings, self-defense classes, karaoke and open stages.
What we love:
- Its queer-feminist commitment
- A safe, inclusive atmosphere
- Outstanding performances
Website (Website in French)
Tiger Sugar Paris Le Marais
29 Rue du Roi de Sicile, 75004 Paris
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This bubble tea shop in the Marais district is famous throughout Paris!
Come and relax or take away a wide selection of delicious drinks.
What we love:
- Wide choice of bubble tea
- On-site consumption or takeaway
Hôtel de Sens
1 Rue du Figuier, 75004 Paris
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The Hôtel de Sens is one of the few Gothic town houses still standing in Paris.
Built in the 15th century, it was home to Queen Margot.
Today it houses a library, and its impressive architecture makes it a must-see for lovers of medieval history and art.
What we love:
- Its architecture, unique in Paris
- Its fascinating history
Information (website in French)
Glace Bachir
58 Rue Rambuteau, 75003 Paris
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This ice cream maker offers 100% Lebanese ice creams, and they’re all organic.
They may be a victim of their own success and you’ll have to wait a while, but it’s definitely worth it!
What we love:
- The delicious taste of these ice creams
- Organic products
Péniche Marcounet
Port des Célestins, Quai de l’Hôtel de ville, 75004 Paris
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Located in front of Saint-Louis Island, this barge is both a jazz club and a restaurant and provides quite a unique concept.
What we love:
- The unusual setting
- The menu
Veja
15 rue de Poitou, 75003 Paris
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A small and uncluttered shop in the Marais district, this shoe store has a very special charm.
Everything is done to showcase the products themselves.
We love:
- Ethical fashion shoes distinguished by their manufacturing quality and the verified origin of their materials
- They’re part of a humble and minimalistic setting
Tata burger
54 Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie, 75004 Paris
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The Tata Burger, it’s a staple in the Marais district and has a distinctive feature: its burger are shaped in a… very suggestive way, just like those at the LeGay Choc
Come and enjoy the playful delights of Tata’s burgers, an experience that’s both delicious and fun.
What we love:
- The naughty concept
La Maison du Mochi
120 Rue de Turenne, 75003 Paris
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100% plant-based, no preservatives, gluten-free, all-natural French products!
What we love:
- An authentic Japanese recipe
Website (Website in French)
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
