Visit the 4th arrondissement

Nestled between Châtelet and Bastille, two popular places in Paris, is the 4th arrondissement, one of the liveliest neighborhoods of Paris. It is the most visited part of the city because it’s home to the Marais and the Jewish Quarter, with its monuments, nightlife, and shops.

What to do ?

You have several options to get to the 4th arrondissement. But no matter where you are coming from, you won’t be short on things to see ! Paris Attitude shows you the best places to visit.

The Hotel de Ville

Coming from Chatelet or the Ile de la Cité, you’ll quickly find yourself in front of this imposing building that dates from the nineteenth century. The Hotel de Ville, Paris’ City Hall, overlooks a beautiful pedestrian square which often hosts all kinds of events (exhibitions, concerts, ice skating in wintertime, etc.) Just for its architecture and lighting, the Hotel de Ville is worth a visit, and even more so in winter. Between Chatelet and the Hotel de Ville, you can also admire the Tour Saint-Jacques, stunning work of Gothic architecture, sitting in the middle of a public garden; it has the distinction of being the starting point of the famous pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostella.

The Marais

Credit Jeanne Menjoulet

Does the Marais even need an introduction ? Surely, you have to walk through the streets of this exceptionally charming, can’t-miss neighborhood. Take a stroll around the Place des Vosges, a verdant square full of history and surrounded by arcades that conceal art galleries and even the house of Victor Hugo, a mansion once rented out by the author. Then head to the old Jewish quarter centered on the vibrant Rue des Rosiers. As you walk towards Bastille, you will pass by the very pleasant Saint-Paul neighborhood, with many shops and the church of the same name.

Looking for an apartment in the marais ?

Ile Saint-Louis

If you head down to the river, you’ll find yourself facing the Ile Saint Louis. Feel free to take a stroll around this little island that has its own atmosphere and offers a lovely view of the Seine and the city. As you walk around the island, a stop by Berthillon, the delicious ice cream shop, is mandatory.

Credit Kathleen Tyler Conklin

31 Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, 75004 Paris
01 43 54 31 61

Ile de la Cité

Credit ALTITUDE / Yann Arthus-Bertrand

Larger than its neighbor, the Ile de la Cité is just as charming, if not more so. From the moment you first set foot on the island, you are greeted by the famous flower and bird market, which features all kinds of plants, resulting in a unique, floral decor that lends its charm to the island. Of course, you have to go to the Notre Dame Cathedral, completed in the sixteenth century, which dominates the island and is one of the most visited monuments in France, you should expect to wait in line, but it’s worth it.

Where to shop ?

Are you a fan of shopping? Then this neighborhood is for you. Whether in the Marais, full of designer shops, in the thrift stores on the Rue des Rosiers, or on the Rue de Rivoli between Chatelet and Saint Paul you’ll definitely find your happiness. From H&M to Maje from Stradivarius to Forever 21, every budget will be satisfied.

For more specific purchases

Marché aux Fleurs et Marché aux Oiseaux : Every day of the week, all kinds of flowers – and birds on Sunday – spread out before your eyes, a good way to get a some fresh air without leaving the capital an the ideal place to find the perfect bouquet !

Credit Zoetnet

Place Louis Lepine. Metro : Cité, Saint-Michel ou Châtelet

Opéra BD : Feeling like reading but it is already 10 p.m. Come to Opéra BD and enjoy !

2 rue des Tournelles . Open everyday from 11.00 a.m. to midnight

Where to eat ?

As one of the most touristy areas in Paris, there are an untold number of restaurants and brasseries to satisfy all tastes, for a wide variety of visitors.

L’As du Falafel

Credit Chris Goldberg

L’As du Falafel is the flagship restaurant of the neighborhood on the warm rue des Rosiers. This restaurant is a must for lovers of middle-eastern flavors. Falafel (balls of fried chickpea) and shawarma (minced lamb spiced with cumin) are the specialties of the house: Everything is fresh, housemade, and delicious. Watch out for the crowds though, and don’t expect to be able to linger at your table. Fortunately, the takeout service is very fast. You absolutely must give it a try.

Dans le noir ?

Here the concept is simple, you eat in the dark. Helped by a guide, dive into the atmosphere of this restaurant that gives you a unique experience. The food is very good and the atmosphere pleasant. Don’t hesitate to come check it out.

Le Loir dans la Théière

Credit Oubruncher.com

Of course, Le Loir dans la Théière is probably the busiest tearoom in the city. But beyond the cup of tea that can be enjoyed in a vintage, cozy atmosphere, the lounge offers an excellent brunch at quite reasonable prices. However, you should expect to wait for your table, but it’s worth it, I promise.

Where to have a drink ?

Similarly, the 4th arrondissement is filled with bars of all kinds. You can relax on the banks of the Seine, or on a terrace at the Sainte Catherine market. We have selected few addresses for you.

The Pick Clops

Credit Marshal Segal

Nestled in the southern part of the Marais, on the Rue Vieille du Temple, this restaurant offers a decor like a 1950s American bar, with very friendly waitresses. With a relaxed atmosphere and an original playlist, Pick Clops bar in Paris is especially ideal for aperitifs on the shaded terrace, with good prices and why not grab a bite to eat thanks to their plates, salads, and sandwiches.

La Perla

Credit Jolyon Russ

Located in the Chatelet – Les Halles neighborhood, La Perla Bar is a trendy Mexican bar, not at all cliché, and is recognized as one of the best tequila bars in Europe. Nestled on the Rue Francois Miron, La Perla, a Mexican bar/restaurant with its large wooden facade, will welcome you in warm, Latin setting. Enjoy the happy hours, which are really worth the cost, and why not some appetizers ?

Le Trésor

Credit Moonik

Located on a little dead-end street, away from the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood, you’ll find this brasserie with old-fashioned furniture that hints at a gloried past but that gives it all its character, it’s an authentic brasserie. It’s a bit pricey for dining, but perfect for a drink. On the cozy dining terrace sheltered from the cars, you can order a pint of “trésor”, a local beer, which you can’t just find anywhere else, a little treasure.

Caféothèque

Credit Kattebelletje

An authentic coffee roaster, where coffees from around the world are sold at retail. Upon entering, you’re already captivated by the aroma of real coffee that is present throughout. The enchanting fragrance of genuine coffee spills beyond the walls. Addictive from the first visit, you can leave with a packet of coffee ground to order, depending on your machine.

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