Dear Fodorites,

Planning to visit Paris for 5 days in Oct. after a conference elsewhere. Have stayed in Latin Quarter and St Germain area last three times. However, this is the first time solo and looking to explore a new area.

Appreciate advice for what area would have a pleasant, quiet neighborhood feel with plenty of restaurants, markets, easy access to metro. Would also like hotel in the 100 Euro budget so realize this will also be a determining factor for area.

Suggestions?

Merci!

I haven't stayed at this hotel but did stop by to check it out and I know I've seen recommendations on this board. Grand Hotel Jeanne d'Arc in the Marais. The area is central to most sights and a very interesting area to explore. It's well within your budget.

http://www.hoteljeannedarc.com/bienvenue_en.html

when dh worked in Paris 25 years ago he stayed in the 19th, and we got around fine. but we did find ourselves gravitating to the Marais, which we have since visited again.

so any part of Paris is good, but IMO the marais would be very good choice. whether you stay there or not, don't miss Victor Hugo's house - it's as if he just stepped out!

regards, ann

Thank you Annhig. Adrienne, Hotel Jeannedarc looks cozy and would certainly do. Last time in Paris we took a Marais walking tour and didn't "get" the popularity - might be reason enough to go back there again.

For comparison, any comments on 7th or 16th as far as residential feel but with access to plenty of shops and restaurants that are more laid back than Latin Quarter and St. Germaine?

I enjoy the 7th very much. Either by the Eiffel Tower or near the musee d'Orsay. Both in residential areas with lots of restos in strolling distance. Tend to use the bus more than metro from ET neighborhood. Lots of food markets there, as well. You probably don't want to be situated anywhere between the two areas, as government buildings seem to go on for miles making it farther from convenient restos and markets. EJ

A friend of mine swears by the above mentioned hotel, the Jeanne D'Arc in the Marais. As that's her hotel of choice.

Another friend swears by the Campanille Hotel at Louis Blanc in the 10th. He's a regular there. I haven't stayed at that hotel, but stay at a friend's apartment very close by. The area is interesting as the Canal St. Martin area is about a block away and the Louis Blanc metro station is right there which is convenient. Happy Travels!

For around 300 Euros, you could rent an apt. in the 9th for the week. If you only use it for 5 days, the per day cost is still only 60 Euros. Way cheaper than a hotel, more private, 10-15 minute walk to Moulon Rouge, 15 minute walk to Sacre Coure(maybe more-long walk up hill unless you take the bus), several good restaurants within 8-10 blocks, several boulangers, nice parks, Metro (Anvers) 8 minutes, bus 4 minutes (bus 85-not handicapped accessable). See: http://locationparis9.canalblog.com/. Hot in late June, July and August. No AC. Sept. onward should be fine. Heat is available. It is completely furnished. Just bring clothes and food. The owner-Nadine is wonderful to deal with.

Good suggestions - thanks all. Decided against apt this time, although we have rented several times before. Prefer the security and getting to know the front desk staff while travellling solo.