4th Arrondissement

Le Marais, Île Saint Louis

From the Grand Palais and Grands Boulevards to the Moulin Rouge and Sacré Coeur, the Rive Droite is filled to the brim with some of the most historic attractions in the world – but most of us locals have been there and done that. Some of us maybe even have the t-shirt. So where is the best place for local (yet central) stylish spots? Easy: the 4th Arrondissement.

Serving as the meeting point between the Seine and the North-Eastern hinterlands, the 4th is one of the most popular hubs for Parisians. Further into the arrondissement sit a bunch of brilliant ports of call: from traditional cafés and quirky bars to luxury boutiques and even premium falafels.

So herewith, VINGT’s selection of the best places to see in the 4th. Just make sure you’re wearing your best Paris gear upon arrival.

Paris’ Hammam Steam Baths

Text: Susie Hollands Image: Ed Porras A popular way of winding down in Paris is to hit the Hammam. It’s a type of relaxing steam bath that was imported here from the Maghreb (North Africa)… Read more

Jean Bart Bistro

On a budget? This cute and rumbunctious little Breton dive in the Marais might be more about atmosphere, but it’s a rare reasonably-priced option amongst the prime real estate of the Marais. Don’t get it confused… Read more

Les Mots à la Bouche

Image: Alain Roy In what was formerly the gay heartland of le Marais (and still is in some ways), this bookshop is dedicated to all things queer, with an emphasis on male homosexuality. A homey… Read more

Luminor Hôtel de Ville

  Operating as the Nouveau Latina for many years, this small independent cinema in the Marais has returned to its original name the Luminor Hôtel de Ville – from when it opened in 1914. Its… Read more

Le Petit Marcel

You’ve just seen an exhibition at Pompidou or caught a film at MK2 Beaubourg? This is a good little spot to debrief, grab a coffee, drink or something to refuel. A typical bistro with a… Read more

Vide Greniers and Brocantes in Paris

This is a type of French garage sale (or car boot/jumble sale if you’re British)– the phrase vide grenier means”attic clearance”.  Read more

Paris’ Best Independent Cinemas

Despite instant movie downloads, France is still a country of moviegoers, and Paris is still the film capital of Europe.  As well as the mega chains UGC and MK2, a number of independent cinemas survive… Read more

Paris Libraries

Image: Matthew Black My world expanded somewhat when I found out about Paris’s libraries. And all for free. There are even specialist Libraries in different arrondissement – 1er Music, 4eme Fine Arts, Graphic Arts, History of… Read more