Living Better in Paris

Le Marais: Best Neighborhood For Expat To Rent An Apartment In Paris

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Are you moving to Paris for your fashion or art career? Then, the Marais neighborhood should be at the top of your destination to rent an apartment in Paris. Located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements in Paris, this historic neighborhood is one of Paris' most charming and trendy areas, with its cobbled streets, historic architecture, and a casual fashion & art scene. From world-class museums, galleries, designers' shops, and vintage boutiques to top-notch restaurants and cafes, there is something for everyone in Le Marais, especially those who are into fashion and art. Here are the best reasons to consider renting an apartment in Le Marais, Paris.

1. Paris' most expat-friendly neighborhood

Le Marais is a multicultural neighborhood with a mix of people from different backgrounds and nationalities, well known as one of the most expat-friendly neighborhoods in Paris. Strolling around the Marais, you will hear people speaking many languages and won't even realize you are in Paris. Besides, most shops and local habitants can speak English. This diversity creates a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy for expats to feel at home and make new acquaintances.

2. Best place to live for fashion & art people in Paris

Le Marais, especially the Haut Marais (Upper Marais), is undoubtedly the best place to hang out or rent an apartment in Paris for those passionate about fashion, art, or beauty. It has been considered the center of Paris' fashion. The neighborhood is known for its vibrant fashion atmosphere, art galleries showcasing contemporary and traditional art, and trendy fashion boutiques, from high-end designer labels to independent designers' shops selling one-of-a-kind vintage pieces; there is something for every style and budget. Besides, Le Marais has many unique museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Carnavalet Museum. Again, you will find many fashion or art events in Le Marais. Therefore, Le Marais has become one of the most popular areas in Paris, attracting many fashion designers, stylists, lifestyle influencers, artists, and celebrities to live here.

Musée des Archives Nationales - Hôtel de Soubise

3. LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood in Paris

Le Marais is known for being a welcoming and inclusive neighborhood for the LGBTQ+ community in Paris, and there are many LGBTQ+ bars, clubs, and organizations based in the area, making Le Marais a popular location to live and rent an apartment among this artistic and creative community. Furthermore, every year, in June, the city of Paris hosts an annual Pride parade which usually starts from the Marais. In addition, Le Marais also hosts LGBTQ+ cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including the Queer Week festival and the LGBTQ+ film festival, both creating an inclusive community. 

Queer Week festival in Le Marais

4. Central location with handy public transportation

Le Marais is located in the heart of Paris, making it an excellent base for exploring the city. Situated on the right bank of the Seine River, it is within short walking distance of many of Paris's most famous landmarks and attractions, including the île de la Cité, île Saint Louis, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Pompidou Center, Place des Vosges, and Place de la Bastille. Le Marais is also well-connected to the rest of the city, with several metros (Lines 1, 3, 8, 11) and bus lines running through the neighborhood. It makes getting to other parts of Paris easy, such as the Champs-Élysées and Concord. Furthermore, Le Marais is conveniently located near two major Parisian train stations, Gare de l'Est, and Gare du Nord, making Le Marais convenient for business expats to live in Paris and travel around easily in France and to Europe.

5. Foodies' paradise in Paris - worldwide cuisines

Le Marais is considered one of Paris's best neighborhoods for foodies. Le Marais boasts a rich culinary history and is home to restaurants serving worldwide gourmet, specialty coffee, and unique food markets, offering something for every taste and budget. As an expat, you definitely can find the taste of home!

International Cuisine Restaurant in Le Marais Paris:

Le Marais is also home to many international restaurants, offering a diverse range of worldwide cuisines such as Thai, Kosher, Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Italian, and American. You will find the best falafel in your life on Rue des Rosiers, the famous Jewish Quarter, and the most authentic Chinese food in Arts & Métiers (Chinese neighborhood), etc.

Rue au Maire in Arts & Métiers (Chinese neighborhood)

Food Markets in Le Marais Paris:

Le Marais also has several food markets, including the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges, one of the oldest food markets in Paris, dating from 1615. These markets offer a range of fresh French produce, specialty foods, food trucks, and even exquisite French cuisine, making it easy to stock up on ingredients for a home-cooked meal or grab a simple dinner when you don't want to cook.

Marché des Enfants Rouges - 39 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris

6. Popular nightlife destination in Paris

Le Marais is a popular destination for nightlife among expats in Paris, with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues. So whether you're looking for a quiet night out in a trendy cocktail bar, a sober whiskey bar, a jazz venus, or a lively evening in the secret underground clubs, you'll find plenty of options in Le Marais. 

7. Exclusive rental properties 

Le Marais is a famous historic district offering many unique Paris rental apartments showcasing a mix of modern and traditional interior design, creating a distinct aesthetic. Here are some types of amazing apartment rentals in Le Marais:

  • Historical Charm: Many unique apartment rentals in Le Marais are in historic buildings from the 17th century featuring original Parisian architectural elements like exposed wooden beams, antique fireplaces, original tiles, high ceilings, winding staircases, and hidden courtyards. For example, the exclusive apartment rental on the elegant 17th-century buildings surrounding Place des Vosges is a treasure you can not miss.
  • Contemporary Design: Despite its historical roots, many newly renovated apartment rentals in Le Marais feature modern Parisian interior designs like sleek furnishings, minimalistic decor, and high-tech home appliances.
  • Artistic Touches: The neighborhood is known for its art atmosphere, and many apartment rentals in Le Marais highlight artistic touches like tasteful paintings and original sculptures.
  • Unique Layouts: Because many apartments in Le Marais stand in historic buildings, they often have a unique layout that you will not see in other standard Parisian flats.

Le Marais is undoubtedly one of the best neighborhoods for expats to rent an apartment in Paris. Whether you're looking for a cozy one-bedroom apartment or a spacious family apartment, Le Marais has a wide range of options to suit your needs and budget. So if you plan to move to Paris, consider Le Marais your top choice for a comfortable and exciting new home. Do not hesitate to contact Paris Rental for help in finding your lovely apartment rental in Paris' Le Marais area!

Consult our local guide about the best things to do in the 4th arrondissement of Paris.

Editor: Siyi CHEN

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