How Many Arrondissements Are in Paris?

By Alice Nichols

How Many Arrondissements Are in Paris?

Paris, the capital city of France, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. One unique aspect of Paris is its division into arrondissements.

An arrondissement is an administrative district within the city, each with its own distinct character and charm. Let’s delve into how many arrondissements there are in Paris and what makes each one special.

The Arrondissements of Paris

Paris is divided into a total of 20 arrondissements, numbered from 1 to 20. Each arrondissement is shaped like a clockwise spiral, starting from the city center and radiating outwards. The arrangement allows for easy navigation and gives each district a distinct personality.

The Central Arrondissements

The first four arrondissements are located in the heart of Paris and are often referred to as the central arrondissements. These districts are home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the city:

  • 1st Arrondissement: This arrondissement is home to the Louvre Museum, which houses famous works of art such as the Mona Lisa. It also includes notable sites like the Tuileries Garden and Palais Royal.
  • 2nd Arrondissement: The second arrondissement is known for its bustling business district and the historic covered passages such as Galerie Vivienne.
  • 3rd Arrondissement: This district encompasses part of Le Marais, a trendy neighborhood filled with trendy boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafés.
  • 4th Arrondissement: The fourth arrondissement features the famous Notre-Dame Cathedral on Île de la Cité and is also home to the historic Le Marais district.

The Surrounding Arrondissements

The remaining 16 arrondissements are situated in a circular pattern around the central districts. Each of these arrondissements has its own unique character:

  • 5th Arrondissement: Known as the Latin Quarter, this district is home to the historic Sorbonne University and is known for its vibrant student atmosphere.
  • 6th Arrondissement: This arrondissement is famous for its picturesque streets, Luxembourg Gardens, and the iconic Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood.
  • 7th Arrondissement: The seventh arrondissement is where you’ll find the Eiffel Tower, as well as many government buildings, including the French National Assembly.
  • 8th Arrondissement: Known for its luxury boutiques and grand boulevards like Champs-Élysées, the eighth arrondissement exudes elegance and sophistication.
  • 9th Arrondissement: This district houses several cultural landmarks such as Palais Garnier, home to the Paris Opera, and Galeries Lafayette department store.
  • 10th Arrondissement: Located near Canal Saint-Martin, this arrondissement offers a lively atmosphere with trendy bars, shops, and restaurants.
  • 11th Arrondissement: Known for its vibrant nightlife scene and trendy neighborhoods like Oberkampf and Bastille, this district attracts a young crowd.
  • 12th Arrondissement: The twelfth arrondissement is home to the beautiful Bois de Vincennes, a large public park perfect for leisurely walks.
  • 13th Arrondissement: This district is known for its multicultural atmosphere and features unique architecture, including the famous Bibliothèque François-Mitterrand.
  • 14th Arrondissement: The fourteenth arrondissement is home to Montparnasse, a lively neighborhood known for its artistic history and panoramic views from Montparnasse Tower.
  • 15th Arrondissement: This arrondissement is the most populous in Paris and offers a mix of residential areas, shopping streets, and beautiful parks.
  • 16th Arrondissement: Known for its upscale residential areas and prestigious institutions like Trocadéro and Musée de l’Homme, the sixteenth arrondissement exudes elegance.
  • 17th Arrondissement: This district offers a mix of residential areas, green spaces like Parc Monceau, and vibrant streets like Rue de Levis with its market stalls.
  • 18th Arrondissement: Home to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre, the eighteenth arrondissement is known for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic history.
  • 19th Arrondissement: Situated along the Canal de l’Ourcq, this district features modern architecture, parks like Parc des Buttes-Chaumont, and the science museum Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie.
  • 20th Arrondissement: The twentieth arrondissement is known for its diverse neighborhoods, including Belleville and Ménilmontant, which offer a mix of cultures and artistic vibes.

Exploring all 20 arrondissements of Paris allows you to experience the city’s diversity and uncover hidden gems at every turn. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets of Le Marais, enjoying a picnic in Luxembourg Gardens, or marveling at the stunning views from Montmartre, each arrondissement has something unique to offer.

Next time you visit the City of Light, make sure to venture beyond the well-known landmarks and discover the distinctive character of each arrondissement. Bon voyage!