Living Better in Paris

Beautiful Lesser-Known Neighborhoods in Paris to Live

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Paris is a city of many beautiful and charming neighborhoods, each with its unique character and appeal. While some areas like Le Marais or Saint-Germain-des-Prés are well-known and popular among expats, many beautiful lesser-known neighborhoods offer an excellent quality of life for those looking to live in Paris like locals. Here are a few lovely non-touristy areas in Paris to consider:

What are unknown neighborhoods by tourists but loved by locals in Paris?

La Campagne à Paris - 20th district of Paris

In the 20th arrondissement of Paris, the "La campagne à Paris" neighborhood feels like a village within the city with a unique French countryside vibe. Although it is not well known, its narrow streets, lovely tiny houses with gardens, and beautiful flowers make it special. Local Parisians love to stroll around the area and stop for a coffee. So if you are looking for a house to rent in central Paris, La Campagne à Paris is the right place to be. 

"La Campagne à Paris" neighborhood

La Mouzaïa - 19th district of Paris

In the heart of the 19th arrondissement of Paris, two steps away from Buttes-Chaumont - a beautiful park known for its scenic beauty, hilly terrain, and stunning views of the surrounding city- La Mouzaïa neighborhood is known for its flowery cobblestone streets and colorful villas. It has a unique village-like and artistic atmosphere and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Meanwhile, you have accessible public transportation access by Métro line 7 - Botzaris ou Danube Station. Finally, explore more long-term furnished apartment for rent in the 19th district of Paris.

La Mouzaïa neighborhood

Which is the most trendy neighborhood in Paris?

Les Batignolles - 17th arrondissement

Located in the 17th district of Paris, Les Batignolles neighborhood is less known among foreigners and tourists. However, the Batignolles neighborhood has become one of the uprising's trendiest and most expat-friendly neighborhoods in Paris, and more and more expat and young Parisian families are renting apartments in the Batignolles neighborhood. It has a chic and artistic vibe, with a farmers' market, many chic cafes, trendy restaurants, galleries, designer shops, and local events. The area is popular with young Parisians, including professionals. The bohemian streets surrounding the Place de Clichy are full of trendy bars. Les Batignolles is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the Parc Martin Luther King and the Square des Batignolles, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors. Besides, Les Batignolles is well served by public transportation with the subways Villiers et Rome (line 2) and Pont Cardinet (line 14). Overall, the Batignolles neighborhood is a young and vibrant neighborhood to live in Paris. Discover more apartments for rent in the Batignolles neighborhood.

Discover the 17th arrondissement of Paris with our local guide: must-see places, activities, the best restaurants and real estate information.

Parc Clichy - Batignolles Martin Luther-King

Folie-Méricourt - 11th arrondissement

The Folie-Méricourt neighborhood stands in the 11th arrondissement of Paris, and it is a vibrant and trendy area popular with young professionals and artists. This lively district is known for its trendy bars, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife. One of the most popular spots in the Folie-Méricourt is the Marché Popincourt, a street market on Boulevard Richard Lenoir opening twice a week, where you can find a wide range of fresh local produce, artisanal products, and vintage clothing. In addition, rue Jean-Pierre Timbaud and rue Oberkampf, where Café Charbon is also located, are lined with trendy bars that stay open late at night. Near the Belleville metro station, you will find many affordable fashion boutiques and delicious Asian restaurants. Finally, the streets between the Goncourt and Oberkampf stations are home to popular neo-bistros offering innovative French cuisine. Also, discover furnished apartments to rent in the 11th arrondissement of Paris.  

Check out our guide to the 11th district of Paris to discover the must-see places, activities, and the best restaurants.

Cité du Figuier - Paris 11th district

Père-Lachaise - 20th arrondissement

The Père-Lachaise neighborhood is in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, and young Parisians consider it one of the city's most incredible and vibrant neighborhoods. This district's name comes from the famous Père-Lachaise Cemetery, one of the world's largest and famous cemeteries where the graves of Edith Piaf, Oscar Wilde and Jim Morrison are located.. With its lovely pedestrian streets and small pavilions with flower gardens, this district offers an authentic "countryside" atmosphere. Besides, the Père-Lachaise neighborhood is known for its wide range of trendy cafes, brunch spots, bars, restaurants, and boutique shops around the rue de Bagnolet. It is also home to several art galleries, theaters, and cultural institutions, including the Ménilmontant Cultural Center and the Musée Édith Piaf. The Père-Lachaise district is easily accessible by the Gambetta Metro (line 3, 3bis). Discover more apartments for rent in the Père-Lachaise neighborhood, 20th district.

Père-Lachaise neighborhood - Rue Saint Blaise

What is the area of Paris that is least touristy?

12th arrondissement of Paris

The 12th district of Paris is a lesser-known neighborhood that is a great place to live for those looking for a more peaceful, residential atmosphere and value green spaces and outdoor activities. Here are the advantages of renting an apartment in the 12th district of Paris. One of the highlights of the 12th district is the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, a former railway line converted into a green space. The Coulée Verte is a great place to go for a walk or a bike ride, and it offers stunning city views featured in several movies, such as Before Sunset. In addition, the Bercy Village, lined with colorful shops, cafes, restaurants, theater, and several concert venues, is a great entertainment option. Besides, numerous galleries and arts and crafts studios are under the Daumesnil arches. Another popular spot in the 12th district is the Bois de Vincennes, a large park on the eastern edge of Paris. The park offers lakes, gardens, and walking trails, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors with your family or pets. 

The 12th district is also home to several markets, including the famous Marché d'Aligre, one of Paris's oldest and most popular markets, where you can find a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal products, and vintage items.

Bercy neighborhood

Where in Paris do most locals live?

Denfert-Rochereau, 14th arrondissement

The 14th arrondissement is the least touristy area of Paris. However, it is a popular residential area for local Parisians. In particular, the Denfert-Rochereau neighborhood is known for its village-like atmosphere and quiet streets, making it a popular place for families to live in Paris. Besides, it is home to several schools, including the prestigious Lycée Montaigne, and several parks and green spaces, such as the Parc Montsouris. Additionally, the area has excellent transportation, with several metro and bus lines passing through the city, such as Metro 4 & 6 and RER B.

Parc Montsouris - 2 Rue Gazan, 75014 Paris

Convention, 15th arrondissement

Although not a popular destination for tourists, the Convention neighborhood in Paris' 15th arrondissement is a popular residential area that provides a calm and peaceful environment and a lively community for families. Nearby Rue de la Convention, there are a lot of cafes, shops, and restaurants. It is also home to a popular farmers' market: the Marché Convention opened three times a week, where you can shop for fresh local produce, cheese, meats, and other artisanal products. The Convention neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, practical for families and people with pets, including the Square Saint-Lambert and the Square Georges Brassens. 

Marché Convention - Rue de la Convention, 75015 Paris

Paris is full of hidden gems for you to discover. Suppose you'd like to have a real taste of Parisian life. These lesser-known neighborhoods offer a unique living experience. 

Do not hesitate to contact Paris Rental if you need help finding your dream apartment rental in Paris.

 

Credit Photo@Charlota Blunarova

Editor: Siyi CHEN

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