All the charms of the 3rd arrondissement

Historical, cultural, offbeat, trendy, lesser known… Many and varied are the adjectives used to describe the 3rdarrondissement, where the Hôtel Les Tournelles is nestled. It must be emphasised that this district of Paris, among the city’s oldest, has a strong and multifaceted identity. Take the time to discover it during your next stay in Paris.

A break focussed on history and culture

The 3rd arrondissement is just about assimilated into the district called the Marais. Translating as ‘Marsh’, the name harkens back to the time when Paris was only a small city gathered around its two river islands. This marshy area was quickly made habitable by various religious institutions. Then, during the Renaissance and in the following centuries, the private mansions of the Parisian nobility and upper middle class were built there. Tucked behind high walls, their elegance can still be glimpsed in the beauty of a porte cochere or in the details of a porch visible from the street. You can also admire some of them when visiting the major museums of the 3rd arrondissement. For example, the National Picasso Museum is located in the Hôtel Salé, a magnificent 17th century building. A visit to the Carnavalet Museum, in addition to introducing you to the history of the City of Paris since prehistoric times, invites you to see from the inside the beautiful spaces and numerous architectural details of the Hôtel Le Peletier Saint-Fargeau. Less well known is the fact that the 3rdarrondissement also preserves charming green spaces such as the Jardin Anne-Frank Garden, completely isolated from the street. The current cultural scene is also represented in places like the Gaîté Lyrique, a venue dedicated to digital arts.

A district vibrant with life

The 3rd arrondissement, despite its centuries of history and its magnificent buildings, is firmly a part of daily life. You’ll find a wealth of shops and cafes there, each contributing to an authentic neighbourhood ambiance. Browse the aisles of the Marché des Enfants Rouges, the oldest covered market in Paris. It welcomes high-quality producers and artisans and provides a heartwarming example of the village-like feel of the 3rd arrondissement. Also take the time to discover the concept stores that have made the district popular among shopping enthusiasts. New trends are well represented there, and young designers cater to customers who are open to change and innovation. What’s more, the Marais is a gourmet-oriented district where you can enjoy all kinds of cuisine. Trendy bistro or traditional café, world cuisine or starred restaurant, quick takeaway snacks… It’s all here and you will be spoiled for choice.

The 3rd arrondissement reveals wonderful surprises to those who take the time to explore and discover it. From its museums to its peaceful streets, from its secret gardens to its trendy concept stores, it has a thousand faces, and something for everyone. The Hôtel les Tournelles team will be happy to tell you all about it during your next stay in Paris.  

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Photo: Crin

Hotel Les Tournelles, a 3-star hotel in the heart of the Marais