Paris 5 nights in May-Airbnb what area to stay

IMHO, Airbnb is the way to go most of the time. My experience with them the last few years compared to most “budget” European hotels has been revelatory. My first trip to Paris was a cramped, stuffy room up 4 flights of stairs. My second stay was a 2nd floor full apartment 5x the size, with laundry and kitchen in the Marais. Cost was the same if not less. Hosts are usually very friendly and helpful, and will have lists of recommendations in the neighborhood when you get there.

Most of Paris is “safe.” I recommend looking in the Marais or south of Luxembourg Gardens. That’s usually where the price breaks, and they’re nice neighborhoods. As long as you’re near a Metro stop the entire city will be at your fingertips.

Hi from Wisconsin,
You can't pick a wrong neighbor hood in Paris. Which ever one you end up in, you will leave thinking it must be the best.

Paris is carved into arrondissements (governmental districts). Numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 are the very center of Paris. The numbers continue outward in the shape of a conch shell. I think you would be very happy in 1-7 and pleased with 8-11.

Google 'Paris Arrondissement' and you will see what I mean. Seems my wife and I have always stayed in the 4th, the Marais. Friends ended up in the 18th and absolutely thought they had the world on a string they loved it so much. Like I say, it is hard to go wrong in Paris.

Our next trip will be to visit the past years' best baguette bakeries and eat at each.

Wayne iNWI

I agree with the other comments but have a couple of realtime suggestions, as I am in an Airbnb apartment in the 11th right now. Metro is great! BUT try to look at the metro map before choosing a location. I am only a short walk from Metro but have to make lots of transfers to get to the BIG spots. It's not difficult to figure out but can involve long walks down twisty tunnels late at night. My friend went home yesterday and I am on my own for 2 weeks. I never have feared for my personal safety, but long walks on dark streets late at night with rowdy drunks and reckless motorcyclists roaring by are causing me to rethink my bravery . Also, if you are not used to, or are bothered by, street noises, be sure to ask if your apartment faces the street. Ask, too, about the security in the flat These things can make a difference in how happy and comfortable you feel. Enjoy Paris! C'est Magnifique!

The best hands down IMO is the Marais area. It's walking distance to most of the top sights and has plenty of restaurants.

After that, I'd go with the Latin Quarter for the same reasons.

I've stayed at hostels, hotels and Airbnb's in the area. Paris can be expensive so hostels are the best money saving option. Airbnb's are fine but you have to pay close attention to the location, often they are sold as more convenient than they really are.

I've been really happy in the Latin Quarter. You could look at budget friendly Hotel Familia. It is in a lovely Parisian style building. Its very basic, but I've stayed three times and have been very happy there.

We just stayed in a houseboat on The Seine through airbnb. It was a five minute walk to the Eiffel Tower and a 2 minute walk to the metro. When we sat on deck, we could see the Eiffel Tower at night. It was a magical experience. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13553836

We always stay in the Marais (Hotel de Nice). Love its narrow streets, Place des Voges, and good Metro and bus connections.

There is nothing more romantic than a walk over the bridge to Ile St Louis and standing along the quai watching Notre Dame and the river -- with ice cream!!

ss

Try Paris Perfect. I have used them twice and will again. They are a great company, wonderful staff & a large number of apartments in various locations in Paris.