Your Guide to Paris’ 1st Arrondissement

Centuries ago, royalty walked the cobblestone streets of Paris’ 1st arrondissement. Today, tourists and locals alike wander those same paths, where palaces have become museums and royal gardens have turned into the city’s favorite gathering spots. Timeless, elegant, and unmistakably Parisian, this neighborhood is where the city’s story begins.

Ready to discover its charm? Here’s your guide to the 1st arrondissement in Paris.

---

Your Guide to Paris’ 1st Arrondissement

Things to Do in Paris’ 1st Arrondissement

Small in size but rich in culture, the 1st arrondissement of Paris is an open-air museum just waiting to be explored. From world-renowned artworks to some of the city’s most iconic sights, there is plenty to see and do.

Admire masterpieces in the Louvre Museum

Once a medieval fortress and later a royal palace, the Louvre now stands as one of the world’s greatest art museums. Whether it’s the Mona Lisa, ​Venus de Milo, or Liberty Leading the People, every corner holds a masterpiece.

Guided Visit of the Louvre Before Opening Hours
Start your day at the Louvre before it opens to the public. See some of the most iconic works of Western art, guided by an expert in your preferred language, and enjoy the museum without the usual crowds.

Louvre Museum Private Tour: “Theme by Theme”
Learn about the Louvre’s evolution into the world-famous museum it is today. After diving into its history and architecture, your guide will create a personalized tour based on your interests, highlighting special collections and hidden gems.

Private Louvre Scavenger Hunt
While adults discover the highlights of the historic museum’s many treasures, children embark on their own interactive scavenger hunt, making the Louvre a fun and memorable adventure for the whole family.

Stroll among fountains and flowers in the Jardin des Tuileries

Looking for a peaceful escape from the crowds of the Louvre? Just steps away, the Jardin des Tuileries provides a breath of fresh air. Wander past manicured trees, blooming flowers, and elegant statues in this historic Parisian park.

Luxury Picnic in a Parisian Park
Savor a typical French picnic in the Jardin des Tuileries or Jardin du Palais Royal. Enjoy champagne, fresh pastries, and a chef-prepared classic French meal while taking in the charm of Paris.

Travel back in time at Sainte-Chapelle and the Conciergerie

Step inside the famous Sainte-Chapelle, a Gothic-style chapel renowned for its stunning stained glass, which is arranged across 15 windows, each 15 meters high. Next door, the Conciergerie reveals a darker chapter of Parisian history. This former royal palace, which was later converted into a revolutionary prison, once held notable figures such as Marie Antoinette.

Sainte-Chapelle Entrance and Guided Tour
Gain a deeper understanding of Sainte-Chapelle on a guided tour led by a licensed expert. Learn about the chapel’s artistic and architectural details, the symbolism behind its stained glass, and the historical events that shaped this fascinating monument.

Explore the arcades and gardens of the Palais Royal

Originally built in 1628 as a royal residence, the Palais Royal now houses Constitutional Council and the Ministry of Culture. Tucked away behind bustling Parisian streets, this palace is often missed by visitors, but it’s well worth a stop. Take photos of the contemporary art installation Les Deux Plateaux in the palace’s courtyard, then relax in the serene garden.

An Exclusive Tour of French Lifestyle and Arts of the Table
Once you’ve seen the palace and its gardens, it’s time to check out the rest of the Palais Royal neighborhood. Discover elegant 16th- and 17th-century architecture and enjoy a curated mix of gourmet delights, fashion, and home décor as you stop by unique local shops and boutiques with your guide. 

Indulge in luxury at Place Vendôme

Although Place Vendôme was once intended to be a symbol of political power, today, it’s synonymous with luxury shopping, particularly for fine jewelry. Browse boutiques filled with sparkling diamonds and exquisite jewels, and you might even find a piece to call your own.

Fine Jewelry Atelier in Place Vendôme
Go behind the scenes to uncover the secrets of some of the world’s most famous jewelers, including Cartier, Mauboussin, and Boucheron. Learn about their innovative techniques and uncover the stories of how these legendary names rose to global fame.

Experience modern creativity at the Bourse de Commerce

While it’s not the Louvre, the nearby Bourse de Commerce offers a fresh perspective on art. Originally a hub for trading grain and other commodities, in 2021, the Bourse de Commerce was transformed into a museum of contemporary art for the Pinault Collection. Home to over 10,000 pieces of contemporary art, the museum showcases a dynamic selection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations from the past fifty years.

Private Guided Visit of the Bourse de Commerce
Tour the museum on a private visit led by a licensed guide. Dive into the permanent collections, as well as temporary exhibitions, thematic displays, artist-focused showcases, and other special projects, gaining unique insights into contemporary art from 1960 to the present day.

Restaurants in Paris’ 1st Arrondissement

The 1st arrondissement is home to some of the city’s most refined dining experiences, from Michelin-starred restaurants to charming bistros tucked between historic landmarks. Whether you’re craving a traditional boeuf bourguignon or a creative modern dish, these restaurants serve up unforgettable cuisine and offer the perfect place to recharge after a busy day of sightseeing.

Halle aux Grains

After admiring some contemporary art or exploring the rest of the 1st arrondissement, head up to the third floor of the Bourse de Commerce to the Halle aux Grains. This restaurant by Michel and Sébastien Bras serves delightful contemporary cuisine that reimagines the idea of seeds, cereals, and legumes as the centerpiece of each dish.

À L’Épi d’Or

A traditional family-style Parisian bistro, À L’Épi d’Or offers dishes that are both tasty and classic. The menu is purposefully short and changes weekly, specializing in seasonal dishes. Stop by for a leisurely lunch or an elegant evening meal featuring French staples made with local ingredients.

Where to Stay in Paris’ 1st Arrondissement

Maison Albar – Le Pont-Neuf
If you want an experience fit for royalty, then Le Pont-Neuf is the place to go. “Casually luxurious”, this five-star hotel offers guests a spa, a gourmet restaurant, and an array of rooms and suites. Just a quick walk away from both the Louvre Museum and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, this is where Parisian charm meets modern sophistication.

Hotel Brighton
Located on Rue Rivoli and overlooking the Jardin des Tuileries, the four-star Hotel Brighton combines classic Parisian style with warm hospitality. Many rooms in this historic hotel even offer views of the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre, making it an unforgettable and perfectly situated Parisian home base.

---

There’s no doubt that the 1st arrondissement is a must-see on any Paris itinerary. Between its ornate palaces, manicured gardens, historic landmarks, and elegant boutiques, this neighborhood embodies the timeless beauty and history that make Paris unforgettable.

You may also be interested in our specially curated Paris travel packages, such as Exquisite City Trip in Paris and The Best of Paris in a Week.

Ready to start planning your trip?