Paris is divided into neighborhoods called arrondissements which are numbered (1è, 2è, 3è, etc.). The hostels in Paris are spread out over so many different parts of the city that you will find at least one hostel in almost every arrondissement. So which area is best to stay in? If you know you want to visit a particular neighborhood, you could look for hostels in that arrondissement. But really it does make too much difference since Paris is well-connected with an extensive subway system that will get you anywhere in the city you want to go. So don't worry too much about the various locations, just look for a Paris hostel with a decent rating that's available during the dates of your stay.

When you arrive in Paris, whether it's by train or plane, you'll probably get to your hostel by métro (subway train). A few tips... Unless you have a European credit card with an embedded chip, your credit card probably won't work in the ticket machines, so go to the window to buy your ticket. A "carnet" (pronounced "car-nay") of 10 tickets is the best value if you'll be in Paris for more than a day or two. And when you buy your tickets also ask for a free métro map (that's "un plan" in French).