Living Better in Paris

Exploring the 7th District of Paris: A Comprehensive Guide

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Paris' 7th arrondissement, located on the left bank, is known for its historical sites, charming neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene. It is a must-visit for anyone exploring Paris, and it remains one of the best Paris neighborhoods in which to live. This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about the 7th district, covering everything from major attractions to accommodation, dining, schools, living, and practical information. Whether planning a visit or considering moving to the 7th district of Paris, read on to find out everything you need to know.

General Information About the 7th District of Paris

Where is the 7th District in Paris located?

The 7th district is located in central Paris on the Left Bank of the River Seine. It is bordered to the south by the 15th arrondissement, to the north by the Seine and the 16th, 8th, and 1st arrondissements, and to the east by the 6th arrondissement. The famous Eiffel Tower stands in the 7th arrondissement.

Why the 7th Arrondissement of Paris is a Top Choice for American Expats

The 7th arrondissement of Paris is a favorite neighborhood among American expats in Paris because of its historic monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Musée d'Orsay, its elegant Haussmann-style architecture, and its quality amenities. This upscale, safe, serene district offers a vibrant cultural and social scene with numerous cafés, restaurants, and cultural events. In addition, the presence of the American Church, the American Library, the American University, the Franco-American Community Center Of Paris, and many prestigious international bilingual schools adds to its appeal, offering a strong community spirit and support network for American expats in Paris.

The Administrative Heart of Paris: 7th Arrondissement

The 7th arrondissement of Paris boasts not only cultural landmarks and residential charm but also a range of administrative offices and institutions, including the Gendarmerie Nationale-Garde Républicaine, which ensures security and public order, and the prestigious Hôtel Matignon, the official residence of the Prime Minister of France, and the Assemblée Nationale, the lower house of the French Parliament. Additionally, the district hosts numerous Embassies representing various countries and providing consular services to their citizens, such as South Korea, the Netherlands, Poland, New Zealand, etc.

Hôtel Matignon (official residence of the Prime Minister of France) - 57 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris

Hôtel Matignon (official residence of the Prime Minister of France) - 57 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris

What Are the Top Attractions in the 7th District of Paris?

Best Museums to Visit in the 7th District of Paris

The 7th district of Paris is home to several museums. Here are a list of fascinating museums in the 7th arrondissement:

Musée d'Orsay: 

The Musée d'Orsay is one of Paris's most emblematic museums in the heart of the 7th arrondissement alongside the left bank of Seine on Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing. Formerly a train station designed to welcome visitors to the Paris Universal Exhibition (1900), the Museum d'Orsay is renowned for its unique collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces from world-famous artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas, Cézanne, etc. The museum's extensive art collection includes paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, photographs, and architectural projects from the mid-19th to the early 20th century. 

Musée d'Orsay - Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, 75007 Paris

Musée d'Orsay - Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, 75007 Paris

Musée Rodin: 

Housed in the elegant Hôtel Biron, the Rodin Museum showcases a vast collection of the famous French sculptor Auguste Rodin's sculptures, drawings, and personal objects, including "The Thinker," "The Kiss," and "The Gates of Hell." The museum also has a lovely sculpture garden that offers a peaceful retreat from busy city life. 

Musée Rodin - 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris

Musée Rodin - 77 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris

Top Tourist Attractions in Paris 7th District:

Eiffel Tower: 

The Eiffel Tower, undoubtedly one of the world's most emblematic monuments, is located in the heart of Paris's 7th arrondissement, on the Champ de Mars. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, this architectural masterpiece has become synonymous with Paris and symbolized France. Rising to a height of 324 meters, the Eiffel Tower offers breathtaking views of the Paris skyline. You can climb the Eiffel Tower by elevator or the original stairwell to enjoy panoramic views of the city's landmarks, including the Seine, the Invalides, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre. 

Every day from sunset to 1 a.m., the Eiffel Tower's 20,000 light bulbs sparkle for five minutes every hour. Don't miss it! 

Besides, the Eiffel Tower offers unique dining experiences with two restaurants, Madame Brasserie—Tour Eiffel, located on the first floor, and Restaurant Le Jules Verne on the second floor (2-star Michelin). 

Hôtel des Invalides: 

The Hôtel des Invalides was built in the 17th century by King Louis XIV, who wanted a hospital and retirement home for wounded war veterans. Today, the Hôtel des Invalides is still home to veterans and victims of war, men and women of all generations and all wars.

However, it is also an institution dedicated to France's military history and heritage that the Hôtel des Invalides welcomes the general public. The Hôtel des Invalides is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture, overlooking the Paris skyline and housing the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte. 

Hôtel des Invalides - 7th district of Paris

Hôtel des Invalides - 7th district of Paris

Champ de Mars: 

The Champ de Mars, located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, is a vast public green space between the Eiffel Tower and the École Militaire and offers a picturesque setting for strolls, picnics, and relaxation. The highlight of the Champ de Mars is undoubtedly its breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower, making it one of the most popular places in Paris to take picture-postcard photos or have a romantic picnic while admiring the stunning Eiffel Tower.

The Champ de Mars hosts various events and gatherings throughout the year, from cultural festivals and concerts to public celebrations and fireworks displays, such as Bastille Day Fireworks, every July 14th.

Champ de Mars - 7th district of Paris

Champ de Mars - 7th district of Paris

Restaurants and Dining: Top places to eat Paris 7th arrondissement

Fine Dining in Paris 7th District

The 7th arrondissement of Paris is renowned for its elegant and sophisticated dining scene, offering various fine dining options. Here are some of the best fine dining restaurants in Paris's 7th arrondissement:

Le Jules Verne

Located on the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, Le Jules Verne is a two-star Michelin restaurant that offers a unique dining experience with stunning panoramic views of Paris. Its renowned chef, Frédéric Anton, presents a menu combining classic French cuisine with innovative touches. Price-wise, the dinner 5-course Tasting Menu is €255, and the 7-course is €275. 

Arpège

Arpège, led by celebrated chef Alain Passard, is a three-Michelin-star restaurant in Paris known for its creative, 100% vegetable-centric cuisine. It is located next to Musée Rodin. The menu emphasizes fresh, organic produce from the restaurant's gardens. 

Classic French Restaurant in Paris 7th District

Les Cocottes 

Les Cocottes is a charming French restaurant located on vibrant Rue Saint Dominique. It features a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere and French brasserie-style cuisine, such as Beef tartare and roasted pigeon in a cocotte.

Les Cocottes (French Classic Restaurant) - 135 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris

Les Cocottes (Classic French Restaurant) - 135 Rue Saint-Dominique, 75007 Paris

La Fontaine de Mars

La Fontaine de Mars Restaurant, located in the 7th arrondissement near the Eiffel Tower, is a cozy Parisian bistro known for its classic French cuisine and charming ambiance. With its checkered tablecloths, antique furnishings, and comfortable dining space, this traditional French restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. Signature dishes include free-range chicken fricassee, coq au vin, blanquette de veau, and roast baby lamb leg.

Where to Shop in the 7th Arrondissement of Paris

The 7th arrondissement of Paris offers a diverse shopping experience catering to a wide range of budgets, tastes, and preferences. Here are some of the best places to shop in the 7th district:

Boutiques in Paris 7th District

Le Bon Marché: As one of Paris's oldest and most prestigious department stores, founded in 1838, Le Bon Marché offers a wide selection of luxury fashion, beauty products, and home goods. The store features high-end designer brands and exclusive items perfect for those looking for unique and stylish pieces.

La Grande Épicerie: Located adjacent to Le Bon Marché, La Grande Épicerie is a gourmet food store haven for food lovers. It offers a wide selection of fine foods, international delicacies, artisanal cheeses, fresh produce, and an extensive wine selection. It's an ideal spot to find high-quality ingredients, gourmet treats, and Paris souvenirs.

Markets in the 7th District:

Saxe-Breteuil Market (Marché Saxe-Breteuil): 

Saxe-Breteuil Market is an open-air market at 37-31 Av. de Saxe, next to the Esplanade Jacques Chaban-Delmas. It opens every Thursday and Saturday morning, offering an authentic Parisian market experience where you can find stalls with fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, and baked goods. In addition to fresh produce, the market also features flowers, clothing, and other artisanal products, making it a great place to explore local flavors and crafts.

Saxe-Breteuil Market (Marché Saxe-Breteuil) - 37-31 Av. de Saxe, 75007 Paris

Saxe-Breteuil Market (Marché Saxe-Breteuil) - 37-31 Av. de Saxe, 75007 Paris

Shopping Streets in the 7th District:

Rue Cler: 

Rue Cler is a vibrant pedestrian street close to the Eiffel Tower renowned for its bustling market atmosphere and diverse range of food shops. Tourists and Parisians favor it for its florists, bakeries, cheese shops, wine shops, seafood stands, specialty French food stores, and cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or a coffee break. It's the ideal place to stroll and immerse yourself in the lively culinary delights and chic vibe of the 7th arrondissement.

Rue de Grenelle: 

Rue de Grenelle offers a mix of high-end boutiques, chic clothing stores, and unique gift shops. It's perfect for fashion enthusiasts looking to update their wardrobe with stylish Parisian finds. Rue de Grenelle also has several cafes and restaurants where shoppers can relax and refuel.

Real Estate Information about the 7th District of Paris

Buying an Apartment in Paris 7th District: 

Paris 7th district is renowned for its luxury real estate. Real estate prices in the 7th arrondissement are among Paris's highest, with average prices ranging from €12,000 to €24,000 per square meter due to its central location and proximity to landmarks like the Eiffel Tower. Some of the most expensive streets for apartments for sale in the 7th district of Paris are Quai Voltaire (18 339 €/m²), Rue de Constantine (17 941 €/m²), and Rue de la Planche (17 819 €/m²).

Renting an Apartment in Paris 7th District: 

Renting in the 7th arrondissement of Paris is also costly, with average monthly rents for a one-bedroom apartment ranging from €1,800 to €3,000. Larger, more luxurious, or viewing the Eiffel Tower properties tend to have even higher rents due to the district's desirability.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris 7th District:  

Where to live in Paris 7th district? Here are the usual recommendations:

Gros-Caillou: 

Situated within a short walking distance of this iconic landmark, Gros-Caillou has a reputation for being the wealthiest neighborhood in Paris, offering a mix of residential charm and tourist attractions. Here, you'll find chic Parisian cafes, lively markets, and picturesque streets lined with beautiful Parisian Haussmann architecture. Its proximity to the left bank of the Seine River and famous cultural landmarks, such as the Invalides, makes the Gros-Caillou district a popular choice for both local Parisians and expat families relocating to Paris.

Gros-Caillou neighborhood - Rue Saint Dominique - Paris 7th district

Rue Saint Dominique - Paris 7th district

Les Invalides: 

Home to the iconic Les Invalides, the Invalides neighborhood is a historic Parisian neighborhood with a strong military heritage. It offers a mix of grand boulevards, elegant squares, embassies, governmental institutions, and charming cafes, making the Invalides district an ideal place to explore Parisian history and architecture. Besides, its proximity to the American University of Paris (AUP) makes it a popular place to live among international students in Paris.

École Militaire: 

Located near the prestigious military academy of the same name, École Militaire is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood with a lively atmosphere. It is home to UNESCO, the beautiful lane of Esplanade Jacques Chaban-Delmas, and elegant Huassman buildings. The École Militaire district offers many amenities, including shops, restaurants, and parks, making it a highly sought-after place to live in the heart of Paris among Parisians and expats.

Transportation Info about the 7th District of Paris

What Metro Lines Serve the 7th District of Paris?

There are 13 metro stations with three (3) key metro lines serving the 7th arrondissement, including:

  • Line 8: Access to major stops like La Tour-Maubourg and École Militaire.
  • Line 10: Connecting to areas like Ségur and Duroc.
  • Line 13: Serving stops such as Varenne and Invalides.

Biking in the 7th District of Paris

Biking in the 7th arrondissement of Paris is a great way to commute or explore this part of the city. 

Scenic Biking Routes in the 7th District of Paris:

  • Along the Left Bank of the Seine River: Biking along the Seine offers breathtaking views of Paris’s famous bridges and landmarks, including Pont Alexandre-III, the Eiffel Tower, Grand Palais, and Petit Palais. The dedicated cycling paths along the Seine make biking safe and enjoyable.
  • Boulevard Saint-Germain: This historic boulevard Saint-Germain is perfect for a leisurely ride, lined with cafes, boutiques, and beautiful architecture.
  • Rue de Grenelle: This street provides a mix of shops, cafes, and residential buildings, giving you a taste of everyday Parisian life.

Biking in the 7th district of Paris

Cycling Infrastructure

Bike Lanes: The 7th arrondissement has several dedicated bike lanes and shared paths, making it easy to navigate safely.

Vélib’ Stations: Paris’s bike-sharing system, Vélib’, has 31 stations throughout the 7th arrondissement. You can easily rent a bike (regular or electric) and return it at any station.

Vélib station in Paris

Parking in Paris 7th district

Parking in the 7th arrondissement of Paris can be challenging due to its central location and popularity. Here are some options and tips for parking in Paris 7th district:

Paris Street Parking

Open parking zones are found in Paris streets, and rates generally apply from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Parking prices vary but expect to pay between 4 and 6 euros per hour. You can make payments via parking meters or mobile applications such as PayByPhone and Flowbird. However, like in all big cities, street parking is rare and quickly taken, especially in central Paris.

Public Parking Garages

Public parking garages offer more security and availability than street parking. The rate for Public Indigo parking is around €3 to €5 per hour, with daily rates available.

Examples of Public Parking Garages in Paris 7th District:

  • Parking Indigo Joffre École Militaire: Located at 2 Place Joffre, close to the École Militaire and Champ de Mars.
  • Parking Indigo Invalides: Located at Esplanade des Invalides
  • Parking Sèvres-Babylone: It is located at Square Boucicaut, next to Le Bon Marché, which is convenient for the residents of Saint-Germain area.

Resident Parking Permits

Paris residents can apply for parking permits in the arrondissement where they live, which offers reduced rates for street parking. To obtain a parking permit, visit the Paris City Hall website or local town hall (mairie).

Parking Apps and Services

Apps like Zenpark provide real-time information on available parking spots and prices.

International schools in the 7th district of Paris

In the 7th arrondissement of Paris, several international schools cater to the needs of expatriate families and globally-minded students. Here are some of the best international schools in Paris 7th district: 

The Bilingual Montessori School of Paris - Quai d'Orsay

The Bilingual Montessori School of Paris—Quai d'Orsay, located in the 7th arrondissement along the scenic Quai d'Orsay, offers a unique educational experience in the Montessori approach with English and French bilingual instruction. This school provides programs for children aged 2 to 12 in three sessions:

  • The World of Toddlers (children aged 2 to 3)
  • Children's House (ages 3 to 6)
  • Elementary class (ages 6 to 12)

Tuitions vary from 10 600€ to 15 750€ per year. 

EIB Grenelle - École Internationale Bilingue

EIB Grenelle, one of the campuses of the École Internationale Bilingue, is a leading international bilingual school in Paris located in the 7th district on rue de Grenelle. With a rich history dating back to 1954, EIB Grenelle offers a comprehensive and rigorous educational program for students aged 3 to 18 from kindergarten to the final year of high school. The school follows the French national curriculum and the International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Its tuition ranges from €15,643 to €16,900 per year. 

Lennen Bilingual School

Lennen Bilingual School, located in the heart of the 7th arrondissement, is a private bilingual school offering a comprehensive bilingual program (French and English) for students aged 2 to 15. The school has three campuses within the 7th district dedicated to kindergarten, primary, and middle school. Tuition ranges from 15,400 € to 22,000 € per year. 

The American University of Paris (AUP): 

While not a traditional K-12 school (all grades from kindergarten (K) through 12th grade), AUP offers undergraduate and graduate programs with an American-style curriculum. Founded in 1962, the American University of Paris provides a comprehensive liberal arts, fashion, film, history, and marketing education to students from over 100 countries in a dynamic and international learning environment. The tuition of the American University of Paris is around €35,584 per year. 

Practical Info about the 7th District of Paris

Where are the Nearest Hospitals or Clinics in the 7th district?

The 7th arrondissement has several medical facilities, including the Hôpital Necker-Enfants Malades, Clinique de l'Alma, and Hôpital Laennec. One convenient way to find healthcare providers in Paris is using the Doctolib application. By accessing the Doctolib app, you can effortlessly search for healthcare services based on your specific requirements, such as general practitioners, specialists, or medical centers, and filter the results by location to find those closest to the 7th district. 

Whether you're looking for an authentic chic Parisian experience or settling into one of its upscale neighborhoods, the 7th arrondissement provides a perfect blend of beauty, history, and modern amenities (department store, public transportation, gyms…), making it one of the most desirable districts in Paris. Don't hesitate to contact Paris Rental if you plan to rent a Furnished Long-Term Apartment in Paris 7th district
 

Editor: Siyi CHEN

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