What to do and see in Le Marais Paris? Feel like shopping today? Le Marais district is one of the best arrondissements to stay in Paris. In which arrondissement is Le Marais located? In the 3rd and 4th arrondissements and a very popular area with many places of interest and tourist attractions. Also cozy restaurants, coffee bars, boutiques and concept stores such as Merci. This originally Jewish neighborhood in Paris is also known for its many bakeries and patisseries, where you can enjoy French delicacies. There is always a pleasant atmosphere and it is ideal for a walking tour.
Le Marais is also a great area for shopping in Paris. The Rue des Francs-Bourgeois is the main shopping street of the district with a wide range of fashion shops, art galleries and trendy boutiques. The district is also a paradise for vintage lovers, there are numerous vintage shops with a large selection of clothing, accessories and antiques.
There are also interesting museums in Le Marais, such as the Musée Picasso or the recently renovated Musée Carnavalet. Just get lost in the many, nice streets and there is something new to discover around every corner. These are the best things to do, walking tour, hotspots, nice places to enjoy culinary delights and shopping in the Le Marais district of Paris. And also discover the best boutique hotels in Le Marais.
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1. The best shopping areas in Le Marais district Paris
You can shop in Le Marais mainly in Rue des Francs-Bourgeois, Rue de Turenne and Rue Vieille du Temple. These are some of the nicest shopping areas in Le Marais with brands such as Sandro, Maje and The Kooples. But there are also many other interesting boutiques with handmade products, from jewelery to fashion accessories and home decoration. Le Marais is also recommended for vintage enthusiasts. And then we are definitely talking about the Kilo Shop, one of the most famous vintage stores.
TIP: You can also shop in the Le Marais district on Sundays, but keep in mind that it can be very busy.
• Read also: 6x Best shopping streets in Paris, big malls & stores →
2. Good food and drinks in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements
Le Marais is a neighborhood bursting with energy and charm, and you can feel it in the many places to eat and drink. Here, trendy cafés, bustling terraces, and cozy bars alternate, perfect for a quick coffee stop or a long evening with a good glass of wine. As you stroll through the narrow streets and stylish squares, you’ll quickly notice that Le Marais offers the ideal mix of liveliness and relaxed Parisian flair. The link below lists some of our favorite spots in the Marais neighborhood. Bon appétit!
• Read also: 10 Best Restaurants in Le Marais Paris: Top Places to Eat →
3. Place des Vosges: one of the most beautiful squares in Paris
Place des Vosges is one of the most iconic squares in Paris and is located in the heart of the Le Marais district. According to many, it is also the most beautiful square in Paris. Surrounded by beautiful houses with harmonious symmetry and under the arcades there are many nice shops, restaurants and art galleries. One of the main attractions in the square is the Maison de Victor Hugo, the former home of the famous French writer. It was converted into a museum and offers a glimpse into the life of the author and his works.
The famous square is also the site of several events during the year, such as music festivals, art fairs and theatrical performances. In the summer months, the square is a popular picnic spot and a fantastic place to relax and soak up the sun.
4. Marché des Enfants Rouges: the oldest covered market in Paris
Food tip in the Le Marais district: Marché des Enfants Rouges. The oldest covered market in Paris where you can enjoy world cuisine in an authentic atmosphere. Marché des Enfants Rouges was founded in 1628 and took its name from a nearby orphanage that dressed children in… red clothing. The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, ranging from fruits and vegetables to exotic spices and delicious dishes. There are more than 30 stalls, including traditional French dishes, international dishes and street food. Order a delicious couscous with mint tea and take a seat among the locals on the cozy terraces. Recommended.
5. Rue des Rosiers: iconic and lively street in the Jewish quarter
Rue des Rosiers is an iconic street located in the heart of the Jewish quarter of Le Marais. There is always a vibrant atmosphere and you can also enjoy delicious food and drinks. In this famous street you will find many shops with Jewish delicacies. It is best known for its excellent falafel including Chez Marianne and L’As du Fallafel. In the Rue des Rosiers there are also many trendy boutiques and vintage shops.
6. Le Village Saint Paul: cobbled streets and hidden courtyards
Much less known and touristy is Village Saint Paul, a historic district in the heart of Le Marais. Often described as a ‘village within the city’, because of the cozy atmosphere and the countless shops and galleries that you can find here. With its cobbled streets, old buildings and hidden courtyards, this is one of the most picturesque and charming places in Paris. Looking for art, antiques, good food or just a quiet stroll? Then Le Village Saint Paul is definitely worth exploring.
7. Musée Picasso: one of the largest collections of Picasso
Musée National Picasso is dedicated to the work of the famous Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. Founded in 1985, it houses one of the largest collections of Picasso’s work in the world, with more than 5,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings, engravings and other works of art. The stunning collection is spread over 5 floors of the beautiful 17th century Hôtel Salé, itself a masterpiece of French architecture. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also regularly organizes temporary exhibitions that are worthwhile.
8. Merci: most famous concept store in Paris
We don’t really need to introduce concept store Merci in Paris. This well-known concept store, located in an old wallpaper factory, can be recognized at the entrance by the red Fiat 500. Very popular on Instagram. Clothing, furniture, accessories, vintage, books,… you could spend hours there. They also have 3 nice cafes (including the Used Book Café which is definitely recommended) where you can have a nice bite to eat and drink. Nice to know: Merci donates part of the profit to a charity in Madagascar that helps women and children in poverty. Put Merci on your bucket list.
• Read also: 8x Best concept stores in Paris that you should not miss →
9. Discover Place Sainte-Catherine and Jardin Anne-Frank
Finally, 2 nice squares full of charm where we like to relax. Place Sainte-Catherine, a hidden square with a very lively atmosphere. Particularly popular with locals and tourists due to the many restaurants, cafes and bars that can be found here. And then Jardin Anne-Frank, opened in 2007 and designed in memory of Anne Frank and to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence. An oasis of peace in the heart of Paris and ideal for a break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
10. Take a walking and food tour of the Marais district
A walking tour of the Marais district offers a perfect mix of history, culture, food and conviviality. Taste delicacies from Aveyron, Vendée, Pays Basque and other French regions known for their delicious products. Discover the secrets of small shops and enjoy the windows of macaroons, cupcakes, pastrami, bagels or falafel. Also visit the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris during this 3-hour Marais Walking Food Tour.
EXTRA: free self-guided walking tour of Le Marais, Paris (with map)
Take a delightful stroll through Le Marais! This walking route will allow you to discover the historic and lively streets of this unique neighborhood, from narrow medieval alleyways to squares brimming with character like Place des Vosges. Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful architecture, boutiques, cozy cafés, and interesting museums that together define Le Marais’s unique character. The walk is approximately 3.5 kilometers and takes about 50 minutes (but allow a few hours if you take breaks), so put on comfortable shoes and enjoy a mix of history, culture, and charming Parisian atmosphere.
• Start point: Centre Georges Pompidou
• End point: Hôtel de Ville de Paris
• Distance: 3.5 km
• Duration: approximately 50 minutes
• Highlights of the Le Marais walking route:
A. Centre Pompidou | B. Anne Frank Gardens | C. Jardins des Archives Nationales | D. Rue des Rosiers | E. Joseph Migneret Gardens | F. Musée Carnavalet | G. Place des Vosges | H. Le Village Saint-Paul | I. Hôtel de Sens | J. Hôtel de Ville de Paris
Le Marais in Paris is a bustling district with numerous sights and trendy places to eat and drink. The Jewish neighborhood of Le Marais is also a great place for shopping. Still looking for a nice hotel in this district? Discover the 6 best boutique hotels in Le Marais Paris.
FAQ about the best things to do and see in Le Marais Paris
1. What makes Le Marais such a special neighborhood in Paris?
Le Marais is a historic district full of charm, cobblestone streets, elegant mansions, trendy boutiques, and art galleries. It blends the old and the new perfectly, from medieval architecture to cool concept stores and hip cafés.
2. Is Le Marais good for first-time visitors?
Absolutely! It’s compact, walkable, and packed with must-see spots. You’ll find culture, history, shopping, and great food, all within a few blocks.
3. What are the top things to see in Le Marais?
Don’t miss Place des Vosges, one of Paris’ oldest and prettiest squares. Other highlights include the Musée Carnavalet, Musée Picasso, the Jewish Quarter on Rue des Rosiers, and beautiful hidden courtyards.
4. Is it a good area for foodies?
Yes! Le Marais is a food lover’s paradise. From falafel joints to cozy bistros, trendy bakeries, and stylish cafés, there’s something for every craving, including lots of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
5. Can you go shopping in Le Marais?
Definitely. It’s one of the best shopping areas in Paris! Expect vintage shops, designer labels, local artisans, concept stores, and quirky boutiques. Sunday is also one of the rare days shops are open in Paris.
6. Is Le Marais LGBTQ+ friendly?
Very much so. Le Marais is known as the heart of LGBTQ+ life in Paris, with a vibrant scene full of bars, clubs, cafés, and cultural spaces.
7. What’s the vibe like at night?
Buzzing but not overwhelming. Think wine bars, hidden speakeasies, and romantic evening strolls rather than loud nightlife. It’s lively but still laid-back.
8. Is there a lot of history in Le Marais?
Yes! It’s one of the oldest parts of the city. You’ll spot medieval lanes, former aristocratic mansions (known as hôtels particuliers), and lots of stories from Paris’ Jewish and noble past.
9. How do you get to Le Marais?
Take the metro to stations like Saint-Paul, Hôtel de Ville, or Chemin Vert. Once you’re there, it’s best to explore on foot, the neighborhood is a joy to wander.
10. Can I stay in Le Marais?
Of course! There are boutique hotels, charming apartments, and stylish guesthouses. It’s a central and atmospheric place to base yourself, with easy access to other parts of Paris.
Bonus tip: don’t forget to look up! Le Marais is full of beautiful balconies, street art, and unexpected architectural gems. It’s a neighborhood where you’ll want to let yourself get a little lost.
