The Marais is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Paris. It has become a much-desired address in recent years, and remains the home of a long established Jewish community around rue des Rosiers and has now also become the centre of Paris’s gay community.
It is a charming area with lots of lively bars, restaurants, boutiques, galleries and beautiful squares such as the famous Place des Vosges to the East. To the West lies the distinctive modern art museum, the Beaubourg/Pompidou Centre, with its street artists and colourful sculptures and fountains.
To the south is the Hotel de Ville - Paris’ central city hall - and the rue de Rivoli with its shops, cafes and restaurants. The bank of the Seine overlooks the two islands of St Louis and La Cité, which are also in the 4th arrondissement.
Property is very sought-after in the Marais and prices are very expensive, especially around Place des Vosges. Apartments here are usually very charming and range from the ultra-chic, to the quaintly medieval with beams, low ceilings and courtyards. This area is bustling both day and night and a favourite strolling place for Parisians at weekends.
Larger apartments can be found on, and south of, the rue de Rivoli and towards the east, around Bastille. La Cite and St Louis are amongst the most sought-after - and expensive - residential areas of Paris. With Notre Dame Cathedral on the east end of Ile de la Cite, these islands can be constantly overflowing with tourists throughout the summer months.
