Where to Stay in Paris for the First Time: A Complete Guide

This guide is part of our main page where you can compare all hostels in Paris. Instantly find the best-rated hostels and real-time prices from Hostelworld and Booking.com. Compare prices side-by-side and save money every time. Learn how we compare prices.

Find your Perfect Hostel in Paris

Where you stay in Paris can make or break your trip, especially if it’s your very first time.

You want to pick an area in the city that suits your vibe (and hopefully your budget, too).

That’s what this guide is all about—helping you navigate the “Where should I stay?” dilemma so you can focus on all the fun stuff, like devouring pastries and making friends from around the world - and gawking at the Eiffel Tower while everyone who lives there pretends they don't care about it.

Top Picks: The Best Hostels in Paris

Best for Hostel Newbies

FRATERNiTY-HOTEL9.1

from $27.76 | More Details

Best for Female Solo Traveler

The People Hostel - Par...9.1

from $26.42 | More Details

Best Party Hostel

Beau M8.7

from $20.78 | More Details

This is not an ad. We help you find the perfect hostel and compare prices from Hostelworld and Booking. You can save up to 23.7%

Top Neighborhoods to Stay in Paris

Le Marais

• Le Marais is known for its cool cafés, art galleries, and boutique shops lining narrow streets. It’s central enough that you can walk to major landmarks, but still feels cozy. I love it for the mix of old architecture and modern flavors.
• Best for: Solo travelers and couples who want to be in the heart of everything while enjoying great dining options, it's the perfect spot to stay in Paris for the first time, specially if you're not really on a tight budget.

Latin Quarter

• The Latin Quarter is home to student life, affordable food, and centuries of history around every corner. You’ll find lively bars, quirky bookstores, and iconic sites like the Panthéon.
• Best for: Budget-minded adventurers, students, and anyone craving a buzzing neighborhood vibe.

Montmartre

• Perched on a hill, Montmartre looks like a painting come to life. Wandering its winding streets feels almost dreamlike, and you get stunning views from the Sacré-Cœur.
• Best for: Artists, daydreamers, and folks who don’t mind walking uphill for a breathtaking panorama.

Belleville

• Belleville offers a more local, down-to-earth feel compared to the tourist hotspots. You’ll stumble upon inexpensive restaurants, funky street art, and a diverse cultural scene that won’t break the bank.
• Best for: Budget travelers, backpackers, and anyone looking for an alternative side of Paris without sacrificing good food and easy metro access.

Short and crisp: The Best Hostels in Paris

1. MIJE Hostel - Fauconnier
2. Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels - best for Older travelers (+50)
3. Woodstock Montmartre by Hiphophostels - best for Party Hostel, Solo Traveller
4. Caulaincourt Montmartre by Hiphophostels - best for Couples
5. Madrigal - best for Couples, Female Solo Traveller

MIJE Hostel - Fauconnier

8.7

4è - Marais

MIJE Hostel Fauconnier is part of 3 hostels in the Marais District. All three hostels date back to more

Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels

8.2

18è - Montmartre Area

Start your day on the sunny terrace with jaw-dropping views of the Sacré Coeur, while more

from

$23.61

Woodstock Montmartre by Hiphophostels

8.1

9è - Opéra Area

Colourful decor, a cute hostel cat and an onsite bar open until 2am - all to be found at Woodstock, more

Caulaincourt Montmartre by Hiphophostels

8.6

18è - Montmartre Area

Stay at Caulaincourt Montmartre and you might think you accidentally booked a hotel. It’s more

from

$25.69

Madrigal

9.0

14è - Montparnasse Area

This stylish boutique hostel is your modern home-away-from-home. The gorgeous hostel dog will make a more

from

$29.56

Top 10 tips for your first time in Paris

1. Buy a carnet (pack of metro tickets) for cheaper public transport.
2. Walk as much as possible—you’ll stumble on unexpected gems.
3. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas.
4. Learn a few French basics like “Bonjour” and “Merci”—it goes a long way.
5. Skip the fancy coffee chains and try a local café instead.
6. Plan museum visits in the morning to avoid long lines.
7. Bring comfy shoes; Paris streets are easier to explore on foot.
8. Picnics by the Seine are a great way to eat on a budget.
9. Give yourself a couple of free hours each day for spontaneous adventures.
10. Don’t overbook your schedule; savor the city’s pace and charm.

Hostels in Paris are the best option - Here’s why

Hostels in Paris let you connect with other travelers (many of which will probably also be in Paris for the first time), share travel tips, and even split wine costs by the Seine.

They’re typically located near metro stops, so you can hit up different districts without much hassle.

Plus, hostels often have common areas where you’ll meet new people, making those Paris memories twice as fun.

11 Hidden Gemz in Paris (by Hostelgeeks)

How it works

Final Recommendations

Paris has a knack for casting a spell on first-time visitors, and choosing the right neighborhood plays a huge role in how magical your stay feels.

Whether you’re drawn to the artistic flair of Montmartre or the lively social scene in Belleville, make sure the area matches your travel style.

Backpacking Paris? Here’s What You Need to Know

These are the guides I wish I had before visiting. I’ve been there, had fun, did some minor mistakes, and now I’m passing the best tips on to you. Safe travels!

Must-Read

Where to Stay in Paris as a Solo Traveler

Best Areas and how to get around

How to Pick a Hostel in Paris

What to Expect (and what not!)

Backpacking Paris

All those cool and unique experiences we are looking for!

I stayed in a Backpacker Hostel in Paris

My experience and what you can expect

Solo Travel Paris

My experience and what you can expect

About the author: Nour De Wilde Salhab

A Lebanese-Congolese-French-Belgian girl as likely to be found climbing a volcano in Indonesia or reading a sci-fi book by the sea in the South of France. Always on the hunt for remarkable experiences. My two favorites so far: volunteering in emergency medical services in Lebanon and solo backpacking around the world. Life is enjoyable in all its facets, from its healthy extremes to its mundane slows.