How Many Quartiers Are in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

Paris, the capital city of France, is known for its rich history, art, and culture. The city has been divided into several neighborhoods called “quartiers” in French. These quartiers are not official administrative divisions like arrondissements, but rather a way to identify and organize different areas of the city.

So how many quartiers are there in Paris? The answer is not straightforward as the number can vary depending on who you ask.

Some sources claim that there are 20 quartiers in Paris, while others say there are 80 or even more. This discrepancy arises because the definition of what constitutes a quartier can differ from one person to another.

Initially, Paris was divided into 12 arrondissements or districts during the French Revolution in 1795. Each arrondissement was further divided into four quartiers with unique characteristics and identities. However, this system was abolished in 1859 when Paris was expanded to include more areas surrounding the city.

Today, some people still use the old system of dividing Paris into 80 quartiers based on historical boundaries and landmarks. Others prefer to use a more modern approach that focuses on practical considerations such as transportation and business districts.

Regardless of which system you choose to follow, it’s clear that each quartier has its own distinct personality and charm that makes it unique from other parts of the city. Some of the most famous quartiers include:

The Marais

The Marais is a historic district located in the 3rd and 4th arrondissements of Paris. It’s known for its narrow streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. The area also contains numerous museums such as the Picasso Museum and Carnavalet Museum.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is located in the 6th arrondissement and is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris. It’s home to the famous Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, and other literary cafes where writers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Ernest Hemingway used to frequent.

Montmartre

Montmartre is a hilltop neighborhood in the 18th arrondissement known for its bohemian atmosphere and stunning views of the city. It’s famous for landmarks such as the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and Moulin Rouge cabaret.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there is no definitive answer to how many quartiers are in Paris, it’s clear that each one has its own unique character and charm. Whether you’re interested in history, art, literature or just want to explore different parts of the city, there’s always a new quartier to discover in Paris. So why not take a stroll down some of these streets and experience the magic of this beautiful city for yourself?

  • The Marais
  • Saint-Germain-des-Prés
  • Montmartre