There's arguably no better place to live the quintessential Parisian lifestyle than in the 18th arrondissement of
Paris. This is where you'll find Montmartre, one of the city's most popular neighborhoods. It's a largely residential area with its own brand of urban liveliness—charming cafes, bohemian bookstores, provocative cabarets, and more. The district is filled with all sorts of local gems that define what Parisian life is truly about. Some are historic and nostalgic, while others are modern and contemporary. There's truly no place quite like the 18th arrondissement, which is why so many people love it here.
Is The 18th Arrondissement in Paris Safe?
For the most part, it is. The 18th arrondissement has become one of the most residential parts of the city. Though
Montmartre is also a pretty urban district with lots in store, the area is now mostly about luxury rentals and mid-range homes. Hence, the 18th has also become one of the safest. While the
crime rates in Paris tend to be high, those in this arrondissement are only mid to low. The neighborhood still has its fair share of dark alleys and sketchy corners, but overall, you'll be safe and sound here!
Is The 18th Arrondissement in Paris Safe at Night?
It's safe to say that most parts of the 18th arrondissement remain safe at night. Even in the areas that are still lit up after dark, the energy is more lively than rowdy. With that said, it's worth remembering that parts of the 18th arrondissement are part of the city's red-light district, namely
Pigalle. These places specialize in adult nightlife entertainment, hence, they tend to invite to draw in all sorts of sketchy characters. If this isn't your type of scene—and even more so if you have kids with you—then it's best to avoid these parts altogether.
What to Do in The 18th Arrondissement in Paris
The 18th arrondissement is one of those bright
neighborhoods in Paris where locals can play tourists and tourists can live like locals. The district is named '
La Butte' and was once the artists' village, home to the likes of Picasso, Dali, Hemingway, and more. Naturally, their artistic and bohemian spirits remain ever-vibrant with the galleries, museums, and cafes here. Some have been around from beyond their time, which further emphasizes the historic appeal of the arrondissement. A walk through the 18th is like a walk through the history of Paris. What's not to love?
What to See in The 18th Arrondissement in Paris
Where to even start? The 18th arrondissement is a treasure trove of popular attractions in Paris. Sitting literally at the top of Montmartre Hill is Sacré-Cœur, the second-most famous church in Paris after Notre Dame. Whether you're from a distance admiring its impressive architecture or you're by the church and looking out into stunning views of the city, the place is a feast for the eyes on all fronts. There's also the iconic Moulin Rouge, the beloved Parisian cabaret that inspired a blockbuster jukebox movie musical of the same name. While the movie is all made up, rest assured that the glamour and extravagance are very much real.
Best Restaurants Near The 18th Arrondissement in Paris
The 18th arrondissement, especially Montmartre, is a great place to unleash your inner foodie. Firstly, the area is home to several
French bistros and brasseries, serving up cuisines that are more
haute than the next. A few culinary highlights include Un Zèbre à Montmartre, Au Gamin de Paris, Bistrot XVIII, Chez Marie, and Le Bimbo, to name a few. The district also offers some of the
best cafes in Paris, from the much-beloved La Maison Rose and its delectable menu of sweets to the historic Le Consulat and its famous French onion soup. Eating in the 18th arrondissement is truly eating like a Parisian.
Apartments for Sale in The 18th Arrondissement in Paris
If you're
moving to Paris, you should seriously consider settling down in the 18th arrondissement. As already mentioned, the district has become largely residential over the years but has also remained tourist-friendly and safe. Moreover, the area has a lot of available real estate too. If you're looking to buy or
rent a luxury apartment in Paris, browsing through Montmartre is a great idea. From cozy studios to chic penthouses, the homes here are worth every penny. They also range from fairly affordable to extremely expensive, especially if you plan on purchasing the property and living there yourself.
The 18th arrondissement of Paris gives you a look into a side of the beautiful city that you're probably familiar with. One that's progressive, liberated, and ultimately, ideal. And if you ever get the chance to go here yourself, you'll realize that it's more than what you see in the movies or TV.
