Sumiko24

Hello,
I'm still on the early phase of planning my Christmas trip and was looking at hotels in Paris.

I found a good deal , the hotel is located in Avenue De Flandres, 19 arrondissement and it says that is very close to Parc de la Villete. Being my first time in Paris, is this a good area to stay?

Thanks in advance!

nytraveler

It;'s not where I would stay. Very far from the center. If it were me I would look only at the 4th through the 6th - to be close to a lot of sights, in the center of things and have a huge choice of cafes and restaurants.

Christina

You probably have a map of Paris, they are in most guidebooks. It is pretty far out and no, I don't think it's a good choice for a first-timer to Paris, in general. I don't think it's a good location for anyone, probably, that's some road near the railroad and some industrial area, I think, and almost outside Paris. It's kind of dull out there, anyway, and buses can be very few and far between, having waited maybe an hour for one once (and that was in day time). That Parc has some science museum for kids.

At Christmas, it would be even worse, as at least in summer it is light late and warmer.

StCirq

No, there's nothing inherently wrong with the 19th arrondissement, but the area near the Parc de la Villette is kind of a wasteland and poorly supported by public transportation to some extent. It also takes some time to get in and out of Paris from there, and I wouldn't want to be spending evenings there.

Forget that one and look at least a little bit closer in.

Sumiko24

Ok,thanks for the input. I don't want to be so far away from the center.

Will look for something closer!! Also, if it's not exactly in the center...I don't think I won't have problems using the metro.

Time to look for other options!

kerouac

The area is quite interesting and "authentic." In fact, that is exactly where I lived for 12 years. Is the hotel you found the Kyriad?

StCirq

Yes, it's interesting and authentic. But if you were coming to DC for the first time, I'd be unlikely to recommend that you stay in Anacostia or the Shaw District, though both are interesting and authentic.

Guenmai

I've stayed several times in the 19th, but on the rue des Dunes. That location was fine. I like the 19th. But, for a first time trip, I would stay more central. Happy Travels!