How Many Districts Are There in Paris?

By Anna Duncan

Paris, the capital city of France, is divided into 20 administrative districts called arrondissements. Each arrondissement has its unique character and charm, making Paris one of the most diverse cities in the world.

What is an Arrondissement?

An arrondissement is a type of administrative division used in France. It’s similar to a borough in some other countries like New York City or London. In Paris, each arrondissement is identified by its number, which ranges from 1 to 20.

How are Arrondissements Numbered?

The numbering of arrondissements in Paris starts from the center of the city and spirals outward in a clockwise direction. The first arrondissement is located at the center of Paris, and then each subsequent district forms an outer circle around it.

The 20 Arrondissements of Paris

Here’s a list of all 20 arrondissements in Paris along with some notable landmarks or attractions in each district:

  • 1st Arrondissement: The Louvre Museum and Tuileries Garden
  • 2nd Arrondissement: The Palais Royal and Bourse (Stock Exchange)
  • 3rd Arrondissement: Picasso Museum and Le Marais (historical district)
  • 4th Arrondissement: Notre-Dame Cathedral and Hôtel de Ville (City Hall)
  • 5th Arrondissement: The Latin Quarter and Panthéon
  • 6th Arrondissement: Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Luxembourg Garden
  • 7th Arrondissement: Eiffel Tower and Les Invalides
  • 8th Arrondissement: Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe
  • 9th Arrondissement: Opéra Garnier and Grands Boulevards
  • 10th Arrondissement: Canal Saint-Martin and Gare du Nord (Train Station)
  • 11th Arrondissement: Place de la Bastille and Père Lachaise Cemetery
  • 12th Arrondissement: Bois de Vincennes (Park) and Paris Zoological Park
  • 13th Arrondissement: Chinatown and Bibliothèque Nationale de France (National Library)
  • 14th Arrondissement: Catacombs of Paris and Montparnasse Tower
  • 15th Arrondissement: Tour Montparnasse and Parc des Expositions (Exhibition Center)
  • 16th Arrondissement: Trocadéro Gardens and Palais de Chaillot
  • 17th Arrondissement: Montmartre Cemetery and Place de Clichy
  • 18th Arrondissement: Sacré-Cœur Basilica and Moulin Rouge Cabaret
  • 19th Arrondissement: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (Park) and La Villette Science Museum
  • 20th Arrondissement:Père-Lachaise Cemetery, Belleville Park, Place Gambetta, Ménilmontant.

In Conclusion

Paris is a city with a rich history, culture, and diversity. Its 20 arrondissements offer a glimpse into the city’s unique character and charm.

Each district has its landmarks, attractions, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. So, next time you visit Paris, make sure to explore all its arrondissements to truly experience the City of Lights.