ALX Guide: The 4th Arrondissement of Paris

Paris is a “gay” city in every sense of the word. It's a colorful metropolis where joie de vivre is the name of the game. And in this day and age, the French capital is also a beloved haven for the LGBTQ+ community. The French have always been pretty liberal when it comes to these things, but none more so than the Parisians in the 4th arrondissements. Here, you'll find the city's official “gayborhood,” home to the largest queer community in the city and perhaps, in the entire country too. It's also no surprise that the area is a fashionable district with hip eateries, trendy galleries, luxurious shops, and more.

 

 

 

 

 

Is the 4th Arrondissement in Paris Safe?

Despite how high the crime rates in Paris tend to get, the 4th arrondissement will always remain a safe area. It's a central neighborhood in Paris, after all, popular among locals and tourists alike. This sort of place that's always lively and often crowded tends to be one of the safer parts of the city. At the same time, the district itself is among the more affluent areas in the French capital. Though it's not the most upscale neighborhood, the residents here are still more well-off compared to those living in other arrondissements. Let's just say that Le Marais is far from the most affordable part of the city. 

  

What is The 4th Arrondissement in Paris Called?

While it doesn't take up the entire 4th arrondissement of Paris, this part of the city is known and generally referred to as the Marais district. Traditional markets and well-known shopping streets make up the area, turning it into one of the trendiest neighborhoods in Paris. Some would even go so far as to say that Le Marais is the “heart of Paris” and they're not that far from the truth. Local life flourishes here in the 4th arrondissement. Some of the best places to shop here have been around for decades or centuries. And most of the residents tend to go out and about, hanging out in all the hottest spots. 

  

  

What is The 4th Arrondissement in Paris Known For?

The 4th arrondissement, or more specifically, Le Marais, is popularly known as the “gayborhood” of Paris. This is where most of the city's LGBTQ+ community resides, turning it into their own colorful haven within the French capital. This is where you'll find countless gay bars, clubs, cafes, and more. Naturally, this is the best place to celebrate Pride Month in Paris too. Every June, the arrondissement lights up with waving rainbow flags, residents in flashy costumes, and unapologetic displays queer love. Come nightfall, you'll want to watch the best drag shows in Paris too! They're always a hoot! 

  

Marais in The 4th Arrondissement of Paris

Even beyond its “gayborhood” status, Le Marais remains one of the trendiest neighborhoods in the city. If you ever move to Paris and want to stay close to all the action, the 4th arrondissement is where you'll want to be! From the gayest (in every sense of the word!) bars to some of the best cafes in Paris, you'll likely spend most of your time out and about than just sitting at home. What's great about it is that it's all about being local here. Most of the businesses are run by people who have lived here for most of their lives. Pretty cool, right? 

  

  

Attractions in The 4th Arrondissement of Paris

The 4th arrondissement of Paris is home to a good number of the city's most famous landmarks. One of them is the historic Notre Dame Cathedral. A man-made marvel of intricate Gothic architecture, it's one of the most iconic churches in the world. Much like the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe, this church's fame is just as worldwide. You can't miss Centre Pompidou too, a mecca of modern and contemporary art. It's one of the best art museums in Paris and is one of the most influential institutions in the global art industry. It's right up there with the Louvre itself! 

  

Restaurants in The 4th Arrondissement of Paris, France

It shouldn't surprise you that the 4th arrondissement is where you'll find many of the best places to eat in Paris. From Michelin-starred restaurants to homegrown bistros, this area's culinary scene is something else! Case in point: Le Saint-Régis, a quintessentially Parisian hotspot where you can get your crêpes and cocktail fixes at the same place. It's the kind of restaurant that's great for any time of day: be it brunch or happy hour. You can't overlook Bofinger on Rue de la Bastille either! It's a historic brasserie that has been around since 1864—a huge testament to its culinary excellence. The seafood here is totally to die for! 

  

Here are more of the best restaurants in the 4th arrondissement

  

• Au Bourguignon du Marais on Rue François Miron

  

• Chez Mademoiselle on Rue Charlemagne

  

• Les Mauvais Garçons on Rue des Mauvais Garçons

  

• Les Philosophes on Rue Vieille du Temple

  

• Le Peloton on Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe

  

• Le Temps des Cerises on Rue de la Cerisaie

  

• Le Trumilou on Quai de l'Hôtel de ville

  

• Miznon on Rue des Ecouffes

  

• Une Glace à Paris on Rue Sainte-Croix de la Bretonnerie

  

• Vinosfera on Rue François Miron

  

Paris 4th arrondissement Apartments for Sale

Although we specialize in luxury apartments in Paris you can rent, it's also worth noting that there are many homes on sale in the 4th arrondissement. They're all prime real estate, whether it's a small studio unit or a chic penthouse with a great view. Either way, it'll still cost you a pretty penny to purchase a place here. The living costs in Paris are notoriously high, especially the prices per square meter. They range from a minimum of €6,500.00 to a maximum of €14,000.00. Do you think you can afford all that? 

  

  

With a wealth of culture, chic shops, delicious restaurants, and plenty of beautiful long-term luxury Paris rentals in store, the 4th arrondissement is one of the best Paris neighborhoods. Here's what you need to know about this famous district.