#3 is in my favorite area. For 5 days it might be a bit far from the Seine, but it's still only a 20 minute walk through a very interesting area. When we stayed in that area a few years ago, I was always amazed that it took 20 min--it never seemed that long. You're right by Rue de Bretagne, which is hugely convenient if you like food, right by all the hip Marais boutiques, if you like shopping, and yet just far enough away from the tourist crowds.

I tend to agree with the last few posters - I don't think we're looking to be directly in the center of the touristy action, but we would still like to be close enough that we can walk or metro to most things easily. Square du Temple looks like a nice area, and not too far of a walk for us, so of the three we're leaning towards #3.

That said, we also started exploring a few places in the Latin Quarter. It looks like another great area that's a bit closer to the Seine and other attractons, but prices tend to be a few hundred more for a week for a comparable apt. Will the extra cost be worth it?

Tahua: We did look at 201, but unfortunately it's booked for the week that we're there.

TPAYT: Didn't get a chance to thank you earlier... the link you posted in your first response was VERY helpful.

DebitNM: Thanks for the link to this apt. It looks great, but we'll be there early September, and it's booked for that week.

Not in my opinion.... Also, you say you don't want to be smack-dab in tourist central, which the Latin Quarter often is. Depending on where exactly the apartment is.

I don't think it's worth the extra money. 3rd/4th arrondissements would be my first choice anyway. But certainly, everyone is different and has their own fave part of Paris. Plus, since you're only there for 5 days, maybe that 20 minute walk from Square du Temple makes a difference for you.

Le Marais is a more livable area of Paris, while Latin Quarter is maybe better for tourists. But the idea of paying more money to stay in the Latin Quarter instead of le Marais just rubs me the wrong way! ;-)