Exploring the 2st Arrondissement of Paris – Eat, See and buy (2023)
What can you see, eat, do and buy in the 2st Arrondissement of Paris? What are the best Hotles over there? Here is your best guide for travel in the 2st Arrondissement of Paris!
- By: Mark Jhonson
Sandwiched between the 1st and 3rd arrondissements, the 2nd arrondissement holds its own as a fascinating area to explore in the heart of Paris. Concealed behind the grand opulence of the Louvre and Palais-Royal lies a more intimate neighborhood brimming with charm and character. Meandering lanes branch off wide boulevards lined with chic shops, beckoning visitors to lose themselves in the district’s winding streets.
The 2nd arrondissement packs an impressive selection of cultural attractions within its small 0.99 square miles. The baroque Opéra Garnier, gleaming centerpiece of the Opera District, provides a dose of artistic grandeur. The Musée des Arts et Métiers showcases scientific achievements throughout history. And the Bibliothèque Nationale Richelieu houses precious manuscripts spanning centuries.
Yet it’s in wandering the vibrant streets and tucked-away passages where the 2nd arrondissement’s spirit truly reveals itself. The charming old-world neighborhood around Rue Montorgueil enchants with its classic cafés, patisseries, and market street. The elegant Place des Victoires is centered around an equestrian statue of Louis XIV. And the hip laid-back Rue Montmartre tempts with its indie boutiques and stylish shop fronts.
As evening falls, the area transforms into a buzzing nightlife destination. Theatergoers pour into the Folies Bergère music hall, soaking up its extravagant Belle Époque ambiance. Cocktail bars like Little Red Door and Café Français mix up artisanal concoctions. And jazz clubs like Baiser Salé host intimate live performances into the night.
The 2nd arrondissement delivers an eclectic array of quintessentially Parisian experiences, inviting visitors to delve beyond the surface and into its hidden treasure trove of cultural gems waiting to be explored.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Explore the Passages Couverts | 19th century glass-roofed arcades with shops, cafes, and restaurants.  |
| Dine in the Marais | The Marais is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from Michelin-starred establishments to casual eateries. |
| Shop on Rue Sainte-Anne | Rue Sainte-Anne is home to a number of Asian shops and restaurants, making it a great place to explore if you’re looking for something different.  |
| Visit the Picasso Museum | The Picasso Museum is home to one of the largest collections of Picasso’s work in the world.  |
| See the Hôtel Carnavalet | The Hôtel Carnavalet is a museum that tells the story of Paris from the Middle Ages to the present day.  |
| Take a walk through the Jardin du Marais | The Jardin du Marais is a beautiful park located in the heart of the Marais.  |
Best cafés in 2st Arrondissement of Paris
Café Marly – Located in the Louvre museum, offering breakfast, lunch, and desserts with a view of I.M. Pei’s glass pyramid.
KB Cafeshop – Cozy coffee shop serving espresso drinks and light fare in a vibrant setting.
La Jacobine – Charming corner café with outdoor seating perfect for people watching.
Best Restaurants in 2st Arrondissement of Paris
Frenchie – Exciting market-driven menus from chef Gregory Marchand in a modern bistro.
Verjus – Hidden wine bar with a prix-fixe menu showcasing fresh ingredients.
Le Pantruche – Classic French cuisine and romantic atmosphere with a Michelin star rating.
Best Hotels in 2st Arrondissement of Paris
Hotel Vivienne – Contemporary boutique hotel featuring a patio lounge and breakfast room.
Hôtel Chopin – Intimate, affordable hotel situated near the Passage Jouffroy shopping arcade.
Hôtel Design Secret de Paris – Bold, modern hotel with stylish rooms and scenic views of the Palais Royal gardens.
Hôtel Banke – Luxury 5-star hotel housed in a historic bank building near the opera house.
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We are a group of travelers who love to explore and write about Paris. Over the years, we have gained extensive experience with cruising on the Seine River in Paris. Here, you could find all the essential information you need to know about Seine River cruises, including the different types of cruise, prices, tickets, operating hours, departure points, and many more. Bon voyage!