Paris, often referred to as “The City of Lights,” is a dream destination for many travelers. Famous for its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral, this vibrant city offers much more than just tourist attractions—it’s a rich tapestry of culture, fashion, gastronomy, and art.
However, Paris can be quite expensive for travelers, especially when it comes to accommodation. But don’t worry, hostels are an excellent option for those looking to save money without compromising on the Parisian experience.
Feasibility of the Best Hostel in Paris
Opting for one of the best hostels in Paris can significantly enhance your travel experience. Here’s why:
- Affordability: Hostels offer budget-friendly accommodations, allowing you to save money for other activities.
- Social Experience: Hostels provide a social atmosphere where you can meet fellow travelers from around the world.
- Convenient Locations: Many hostels are centrally located, providing easy access to major attractions and public transportation.
Top 10 Paris Hostels to Stay
In this guide, we will explore the top 10 Paris hostels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of French flair.
1. St Christopher’s Inn Hostel
Located along the Canal St-Martin, St Christopher’s Inn Hostel is an excellent choice for travelers looking to experience the eclectic vibe of Paris. The hostel offers a variety of room options, including dormitories and private rooms.
With an on-site bar and a waterfront terrace, this hostel is a social hub where you can meet other travelers.
2. Generator Paris
Generator Paris is situated in the trendy 10th arrondissement and offers a stylish and modern stay. This hostel stands out for its chic design, rooftop terrace, and premium amenities such as a cafe and a cinema room. The rooms are sleek, with options ranging from shared dorms to private suites.
3. Le Village Montmartre by Hiphophostels
If you’re an art lover, Le Village Montmartre offers the perfect stay near the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The hostel features murals and art installations, infusing the spirit of Montmartre into its interiors.
Apart from its aesthetic appeal, it also offers free walking tours and cooking classes, providing a wholesome experience.
4. MIJE Marais
Set in three traditional French buildings, MIJE Marais offers a unique experience with its historic charm. Located in the heart of the Marais district, this hostel is within walking distance of Notre Dame and the Place des Vosges. The rooms are simple and elegant, fitting the historical atmosphere of the hostel.
5. Les Piaules
Les Piaules is located in Belleville, one of Paris’s most diverse and vibrant neighborhoods. The hostel offers a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower. The rooms are minimalist but cozy, offering an array of options from shared dorms to private rooms.
6. The Loft Boutique Hostel
Situated in the 20th arrondissement, The Loft Boutique Hostel offers a chic and intimate atmosphere. The hostel features modern design elements such as exposed brick walls and vintage furniture. The Loft is well-suited for solo travelers and small groups looking for a quieter, laid-back experience.
7. FIAP Jean Monnet
FIAP Jean Monnet is more than just a hostel; it’s a cultural experience. Located in the 14th arrondissement, the hostel hosts various events and activities, from language exchange sessions to concerts. The rooms are modern and spacious, with options for both dormitory-style and private accommodation.
8. Woodstock Hostel
Named after the legendary music festival, Woodstock Hostel offers a retro vibe and is located near Montmartre and the Moulin Rouge. The hostel features vintage décor and a relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular choice for young travelers and music enthusiasts.
9. Oops! Latin Quarter by Hiphophostels
Oops! Latin Quarter is situated in one of Paris’s most historically rich areas, close to the Pantheon and the Luxembourg Gardens. The hostel offers an eclectic design with modern amenities, creating a perfect blend of style and comfort. Its central location makes it ideal for those who want to explore the city on foot.
10. Peace & Love Hostel
Located near the Canal St-Martin, Peace & Love Hostel is perfect for travelers looking for a lively social scene. The hostel features a bar and lounge area, creating a vibrant atmosphere where guests can socialize. The accommodation options are flexible, offering dormitories and private rooms.
Things to Do in Paris
Paris offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages and interests. Here are some must-see and must-do activities:
- Visit the Eiffel Tower: Climb to the top for stunning views of the city.
- Explore the Louvre Museum: Home to thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
- Stroll along the Champs-Élysées: A famous avenue lined with shops, theaters, and cafes.
- Discover Montmartre: A historic district known for its artistic heritage and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Cruise on the Seine River: Enjoy a boat tour to see Paris’s landmarks from a unique perspective.
Top 5 Libraries in Paris
- Bibliothèque Nationale de France (BnF): The national library of France, offering a vast collection of books and manuscripts.
- Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève: A historic library known for its stunning architecture and academic resources.
- Bibliothèque Mazarine: The oldest public library in France, housing a rich collection of rare books and manuscripts.
- Bibliothèque Forney: Specializing in fine arts and decorative arts, located in a historic building in the Marais.
- American Library in Paris: Offering a wide selection of English-language books and cultural programs.
Top 10 Food and Drinking Stops in Paris
- Le Comptoir du Relais: A popular bistro known for its traditional French dishes.
- L’Ambroisie: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering gourmet French cuisine.
- Le Marais Falafel: Famous for its delicious falafel sandwiches in the Marais district.
- Angelina: Renowned for its hot chocolate and pastries, located on Rue de Rivoli.
- La Palette: A historic café frequented by artists, offering a charming atmosphere and excellent drinks.
- Pierre Hermé: Known for its exquisite macarons and pastries.
- Le Procope: The oldest café in Paris, offering classic French dishes and a historic ambiance.
- Septime: A modern bistro known for its innovative cuisine and stylish setting.
- Café de Flore: One of the oldest and most famous cafés in Paris, known for its literary and artistic patrons.
- Le Bar Hemingway: Located in the Ritz Paris, offering expertly crafted cocktails in a luxurious setting.
Top 5 Beaches in Paris
While Paris is not a coastal city, nearby locations offer beach-like experiences:
- Paris Plages: A summer event that transforms the Seine riverbanks into temporary beaches with sand, deck chairs, and activities.
- Île de Loisirs de Cergy-Pontoise: A leisure island with a sandy beach, swimming, and water sports, located just outside Paris.
- Plage de l’Isle-Adam: A beach on the Oise River, offering swimming, sunbathing, and recreational activities.
- La Plage de Meaux: A man-made beach on the Marne River, perfect for a day trip from Paris.
- Lac d’Enghien-les-Bains: A lake with a sandy beach and various water activities, located in a nearby town.
Top 5 Museums in Paris
- Louvre Museum: The world’s largest art museum, housing thousands of works from ancient civilizations to the 19th century.
- Musée d’Orsay: Featuring an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
- Centre Pompidou: Known for its modern and contemporary art collections and unique architectural design.
- Musée Rodin: Dedicated to the works of sculptor Auguste Rodin, set in a beautiful garden.
- Musée de l’Orangerie: Home to Monet’s famous Water Lilies series and other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works.
Top 5 Castles in Paris
- Palace of Versailles: A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its opulent architecture, gardens, and historic significance.
- Château de Fontainebleau: A royal residence with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, located just outside Paris.
- Château de Vincennes: A historic fortress and royal residence located in the eastern suburbs of Paris.
- Château de Malmaison: The former residence of Napoleon and Josephine, offering insights into their lives and times.
- Château de Chantilly: Known for its art collection, beautiful gardens, and horse racing events.
Top 5 Zoos in Paris
- Paris Zoological Park (Parc Zoologique de Paris): Located in the Bois de Vincennes, offering a variety of animal exhibits and habitats.
- Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes: One of the oldest zoos in the world, located in the heart of Paris.
- Thoiry ZooSafari: A safari park offering drive-through animal exhibits and a traditional zoo experience, located near Paris.
- Parc des Félins: Specializing in big cats, offering a unique and educational experience.
- Zoo de Vincennes: Known for its modern enclosures and focus on animal welfare.
Top 5 Parks in Paris
- Luxembourg Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg): A beautiful park offering lush gardens, fountains, and recreational activities.
- Bois de Boulogne: A large park offering lakes, gardens, and a variety of recreational activities.
- Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries): A historic garden located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and scenic views.
- Bois de Vincennes: The largest public park in Paris, offering a zoo, botanical garden, and various recreational facilities.
Top 5 Mosques in Paris
- Grande Mosquée de Paris: The main mosque in Paris, offering prayer services, a beautiful garden, and a traditional tea room.
- Mosquée Adda’wa: Located in the 19th arrondissement, serving the local Muslim community.
- Mosquée de Créteil: A large mosque located in the suburbs of Paris, offering religious services and community events.
- Mosquée de Gennevilliers: Serving the Muslim community in the northern suburbs of Paris.
- Mosquée de Courcouronnes: Offering prayer services and cultural activities for the local Muslim population.
Top 5 Temples in Paris
- Pagode de Vincennes: A Buddhist temple located in the Bois de Vincennes, offering meditation and teachings.
- Vedic Temple Paris: A Hindu temple offering spiritual services and cultural events.
- Gurdwara Sahib Bobigny: A Sikh temple serving the Sikh community in Paris and offering community services.
- Sri Manicka Vinayakar Alayam: Another prominent Hindu temple in Paris, dedicated to Lord Ganesha.
- Eglise Evangélique Paris Bastille: Offering spiritual services and community events for the evangelical community.
Top 5 Churches in Paris
- Notre-Dame Cathedral: An iconic Gothic cathedral known for its stunning architecture and historical significance.
- Sacré-Cœur Basilica: Located in Montmartre, offering panoramic views of Paris and beautiful architecture.
- Saint-Sulpice Church: Known for its stunning interior and historical significance.
- Sainte-Chapelle: Famous for its stunning stained glass windows and Gothic architecture.
- Saint-Germain-des-Prés: One of the oldest churches in Paris, known for its beautiful architecture and historic importance.
Other Enjoyable Places in Paris
- Montmartre: A historic district known for its artistic heritage and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
- Le Marais: A trendy neighborhood known for its historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cultural scene.
- Champs-Élysées: A famous avenue lined with shops, theaters, and cafes, leading to the Arc de Triomphe.
- Latin Quarter: A historic district known for its lively atmosphere, student culture, and historic landmarks.
- Canal Saint-Martin: A picturesque canal offering boat rides, trendy cafes, and scenic walks.
Paris is a city of endless exploration and discovery. Whether you’re delving into its rich history, savoring its delicious cuisine, or enjoying its vibrant arts scene, this guide will help you make the most of your visit. Enjoy the charm and elegance of Paris, and create unforgettable memories in this iconic city.
Conclusion
Paris is a city that caters to a wide array of travelers, from the luxury seekers to the budget-conscious. Hostels in Paris offer not just a place to sleep, but a way to meet like-minded travelers and engage in unique experiences.
Each of the top 10 Paris hostels listed above offers something special, be it their location, design, amenities, or the activities they host. So why wait? Dive into the rich culture of Paris without breaking the bank by booking your stay at one of these fantastic hostels today.