10 things to do in the Marais district of Paris

The Marais, this emblematic district of Paris located between the 3ᵉ and 4ᵉ arrondissement, is brimming with historical, cultural and gastronomic treasures. The true beating heart of the capital, this district of cobbled streets and Renaissance townhouses offers an authentic and diverse experience. From must-see museums to trendy restaurants, vintage boutiques and historic monuments, the Marais seduces with its unique blend of heritage and modernity.

This guide presents the 10 must-do activities in the Marais district, allowing you to discover the soul of this historic Parisian district. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff or just a stroller, the Marais will win you over with its rich culture and unique atmosphere.

1. Stroll around the Place des Vosges, an architectural gem in the Marais district

Considered one of the most beautiful squares in Paris, the Place des Vosges is the ideal starting point for a visit to Paris. This royal square, built under Henri IV between 1605 and 1612, boasts perfect architectural harmony with its 36 symmetrical pavilions in red brick and ashlar. In the centre, a peaceful garden invites you to relax, while the arcades are home to art galleries, antique shops and charming cafés. Don’t miss the Maison de Victor Hugo (6 place des Vosges, 75004 Paris, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 3,200 reviews), where the writer lived from 1832 to 1848 and wrote part of Les Misérables.

---

Also in the Paris guide :

• 15 free things to do and see in Paris
• What to do in ParisTop 8 activities + Top tips – A selection of unique activities
• Top 20 culinary specialities in Paris – Complete gastronomic guide
• Visit Disneyland in 1, 2 or 3 days: all our tips – Disneyland Paris complete guide
• 5 weekend ideas around Paris – Fontainebleau, Provins and other destinations
• The most beautiful villages to discover around Paris this winter – Winter escapades
• Top 5 best hotels with a view of the Eiffel Tower – Premium accommodation guide
• 10 romantic weekend getaways near Paris – Escapades romantiques

---

2. Discover the Picasso Museum in the Hôtel Salé

The Musée Picasso, housed in the magnificent 17thᵉ century Hôtel Salé, is home to the largest public collection of works by Pablo Picasso in the world. This historic residence (5 Rue de Thorigny, 75003 Paris, rated 4.4/5 on Google for 13,882 reviews) features more than 5,000 works by the Spanish artist, covering all his creative periods. From his early canvases to his latest creations, via the blue and pink periods, the museum offers a fascinating chronological tour. The garden of the private mansion also provides a pleasant green setting for a contemplative break.

3. Immerse yourself in Parisian history at the Musée Carnavalet

The Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, occupies two exceptional town houses in the heart of the Marais district. Housed in the Hôtel Carnavalet and the Hôtel Le Peletier de Saint-Fargeau (23 Rue de Sévigné, 75003 Paris, rated 4.7/5 on Google out of 10,129 reviews), this free museum traces the development of the capital from its origins to the present day. You can admire over 100 exhibition rooms, from archaeological objects to reconstructions of Parisian interiors and the famous collection of shop signs. Madame de Sévigné’s former home provides an exceptional backdrop for this plunge into Parisian history.

4. Explore the historic Jewish quarter on rue des Rosiers

Rue des Rosiers is the heart of the historic Jewish quarter of the Marais, a witness to a rich multicultural history. This picturesque street is home to synagogues, kosher restaurants and traditional shops. You won’t want to miss L’As du Fallafel (34 Rue des Rosiers, 75004 Paris, rated 4.3/5 on Google out of 13,613 reviews), a true Parisian institution where you can enjoy the best falafels in the capital. Take a stroll through the adjacent streets, such as rue des Écouffes and rue Ferdinand Duval, to discover specialist bookshops, traditional patisseries and feel the authentic atmosphere of this historic district.

5. Immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Centre Pompidou

On the edge of the Marais district, the Centre Pompidou stands as a symbol of modern and contemporary art. This bold architecture by Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers (Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris, rated 4.4/5 on Google out of 57,193 reviews) is home to the Musée National d’Art Moderne, the largest collection of contemporary art in Europe. As well as the permanent and temporary exhibitions, enjoy the panoramic view from the top floor and discover the Stravinsky fountain with its colourful and playful sculptures by Jean Tinguely and Niki de Saint Phalle.

6. Shopping at the BHV Marais and in vintage boutiques

Shopping in the Marais offers a unique experience combining department stores and independent designers. The BHV Marais (52 Rue de Rivoli, 75004 Paris, rated 4.2/5 on Google for 15,847 reviews) remains the must-visit institution, with its six floors of fashion, interior design and DIY. Then take a stroll down Rue des Francs Bourgeois, the district’s commercial artery, where you’ll find a succession of designer boutiques, concept stores and trendy names. The Village Saint-Paul, with its cobbled courtyards and antique shops, offers a more intimate atmosphere for hunting out unique pieces and objets d’art.

7. Savour the gastronomic delights of the Marais’ restaurants

The Marais boasts an eclectic gastronomic scene, from traditional bistros to avant-garde restaurants. The culinary offering reflects the diversity of the district: Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jewish cuisine, classic Parisian bistros and modern fusion. The terraces of the Place du Marché Sainte-Catherine provide an idyllic setting for lunch, while the wine bars hidden away in the cobbled streets offer a more intimate atmosphere. Oriental patisseries rub shoulders with artisanal bakeries, creating a veritable gourmet journey through cultures.

8. Visiting private mansions and historic monuments

The Marais is home to the highest density of private mansions in Paris, testimony to the district’s golden age in the 17th and 18th centuries. The Hôtel de Sully, the Hôtel de Soubise housing the Archives Nationales, and the Hôtel de Lamoignon with the Bibliothèque Historique de la Ville de Paris, reveal French classical architecture in all its splendour. These aristocratic residences, often transformed into museums or cultural institutions, offer a glimpse into the Parisian art of living of yesteryear, as well as contemporary cultural programming.

9. Discover the nightlife and trendy bars

As soon as night falls, the Marais reveals another facet of its personality with a dynamic and diverse nightlife. Creative cocktail bars nestle in ancient vaulted cellars, creating unique atmospheres. La Candelaria, a Mexican speakeasy hidden behind a taqueria, is a perfect example of the district’s underground spirit. The terraces come alive in the evening, particularly around rue des Archives and rue Vieille du Temple, creating a friendly atmosphere that lasts well into the night.

10. Stroll through hidden gardens and green spaces

Contrary to popular belief, there are plenty of green spaces in the Marais, offering welcome breaks from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Place des Vosges garden, with its shady paths and carefully tended lawns, is a haven of peace in the heart of the district. The gardens of the town houses, often accessible during the Heritage Days, reveal unsuspected green spaces. The Square du Temple and its play areas will delight families, while the inner courtyards of the Village Saint-Paul offer a more intimate atmosphere.

Download the audio tour to discover Paris on foot and on your own

For the best possible exploration of the Marais and its treasures, the Navaway audioguided itinerary accompanies you as you discover the district’s emblematic places. This carefully crafted itinerary takes you from the must-sees to the secret addresses, enriched with historical anecdotes and practical advice. Thanks to the mobile application, you can discover Paris at your own pace, with detailed explanations of each point of interest. Download your audio guide now to visit Paris and enjoy a unique immersive experience in the streets of the Marais.

In conclusion, the Marais district offers an exceptional range of activities to suit all tastes and curiosities. From artistic contemplation in its world-famous museums to tasting culinary specialities in its authentic restaurants and shopping in its unique boutiques, every street reveals new treasures. The Navaway audio tour will ensure that you don’t miss out on any of this exceptional heritage, while discovering the anecdotes that make up the soul of this emblematic district. Let yourself be guided on this fascinating exploration of the Marais, where every step you take will plunge you into the living history of Paris.

Frequently asked questions about Le Marais activities

How long does it take to visit the Marais district?

A full day allows you to discover the main sites of the Marais. Allow at least 4 to 6 hours for an in-depth visit, including 2-3 museums, a lunch break and some shopping. For a more in-depth exploration, including all the town houses and museums, allow 2 days.

What museums are free in the Marais?

The Musée Carnavalet (history of Paris) and the Maison de Victor Hugo on the Place des Vosges are completely free. Several other museums offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month or for under-26s who are EU residents.

Where to eat the best falafels in the Marais?

Rue des Rosiers is home to some of the best addresses, including L’As du Fallafel (the most famous), Chez Marianne and Mi-Va-Mi. These restaurants offer authentic Middle Eastern specialities in an atmosphere typical of the historic Jewish quarter.

Is the Marais accessible by public transport?

The Marais is well served by metro lines 1, 7, 11 and 14, and has several stations: Hôtel de Ville, Saint-Paul, Châtelet and République. Buses 67, 69, 76 and 96 also run through the district. Most of the sites are within walking distance once you’re there.