Paris-What is the Best District to Stay in

Marcie, most of Paris is very safe. But, for a first time visitor I think staying in the 4th ( Marais) 5th( Latin Quarter) or 6th( St Germain) is most central and funnest. This does NOT mean other areas are not nice, I personally have stayed in 3-4 other areas as well as those ,, but those are the most dead central to the most sites.. after that if you like a bit quieter then look at 7th, or bit more shopping and upscale then look at 1st, , 14 th borders on 6th and is a great area too... I personally like a neighborhood that is "open" in the evenings, cafes etc,, so that when walkinng back to my hotel I feel a bit safer as a solo woman visitor then walking through areas that are quiet or residential,, NOTE .. this does not mean those areas are not safe, merely that I prefer being around people myself when walking home after dark!

I was getting ready to post a reply, when I saw that Pat had already said everything I was going to say! So, I can only echo her sage advice: 1. Almost all of Paris is safe. The most dangerous areas are not in the city proper, but in certain suburbs, outside the city and not near any tourist attractions. 2. The 4th, 5th and 6th arrondissements are the most central and "user-friendly" for a first time visitor. As Pat said, in addition to being convenient, these areas are always bustling with street activity, so at almost any hour, you will not feel you are in a deserted area. 3. You will need to use the Metro or buses (or take VERY long walks) to get to some sights, no matter where you stay. Enjoy my favorite city!

I agree with Pat and Harold. My first time to Paris I stayed on Rue Rick, I mean Rue Cler, because it gets so much hype by Rick. It is a very nice area, but not much going on and far from almost everything besides the Eiffel Tower. You can always go there to check it out, but no need to stay there. Since then I have rented 2 different apartments in the 5th. Next time I might try somewhere else, but I won't be seeing things like a first time visitor would.

Thank you for the wonderful advice. I will look for a room in those areas.

I usually stay in the Latin quarter or near the Opera near les Grands Boulevards.

I stayed in Marais near the Bastille. There were lots of cafes and shops very close and the metro and bus stops were very convenient.