The 3rd arrondissement of Paris is a chic, historic, and trendy neighborhood in central Paris. It is renowned for its galleries, museums, stylish boutiques, and lively cafés.
It is part of the Marais, one of the most sought-after and culturally rich districts in the capital. Unlike the bustling 4th arrondissement, the 3rd offers a more intimate, artistic, and residential atmosphere. Perfect for strolling, shopping, and uncovering hidden gems.
For an overview of all 20 arrondissements of Paris, click on Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?
Note : you will find at the end of the article
1/ What to see in this arrondissement and nearby with direct online bookings for Museums and Monuments
2/ The interactive map of Points of Interest with access to our database
3/ The list of HOTELS in this arrondissement with direct online bookings
4/ The photo gallery of the most important places
5/ Your Bonus: 5 essential tips to help you plan and make the most of your stay in Paris
6/ Links for unforgettable Parisian keepsakes: hire a photographer for an outdoor shoot and select high-definition photos of Paris.
A free museum dedicated to the history of Paris, housed in a magnificent 17th-century private mansion.
This is the municipal museum of Paris dedicated to the history of the city, from its origins to the present day.
Located in the Marais, at 23 rue de Sévigné (3rd arrondissement), it features a wide range of collections: souvenirs from the French Revolution, historical paintings, sculptures, furniture and decor from the 17th and 18th centuries, art objects, prints, and more.
It comprises 140 rooms; 3,900 m² of permanent exhibition spaces + 360 m² of temporary exhibitions – Collections: 2,800 paintings, 2,000 sculptures, 300,000 prints, 150,000 photographs, 800 pieces of furniture, 50,000 coins, 200 signs.
Access to the permanent collections is free and open to the public without reservation. Access to temporary exhibitions is paid.
Find out more: Musée Carnavalet
Housing an impressive collection of Picasso’s works, the Musée National Picasso is located in the Hôtel Salé. It is France’s national museum dedicated to the life and work of Pablo Picasso and associated artists. The museum is housed in the Hôtel Salé, one of the magnificent Baroque mansions in the Marais (5 rue de Thorigny, 75003).
More information: Musée Picasso, world-famous, unique and personal art collection, 200,000 pieces
Book tickets for the Musée Picasso
A fascinating museum showcasing science, inventions and industrial design. It is the science and technology museum of the Conservatoire national des arts et métiers (CNAM), located at 60 rue Réaumur, 75003.
Under the authority of the Ministry of Higher Education and Research, it was founded in 1794 (during the Revolution) at the request of Abbé Grégoire, a member of the National Convention. Today, the CNAM is a major higher education and research institution, and its museum preserves all the machines, models and drawings used in the 19th and 20th centuries.
It regularly enriches its collections, particularly through the National Mission for the Safeguarding of Contemporary Scientific and Technical Heritage. Number of objects: 80,000
Discover the history of France through ancient manuscripts and historical documents.
The Musée des Archives nationales, established in 1867 at the National Archives, showcases documents preserved by the institution. It features a permanent exhibition of the National Archives’ most famous documents, as well as temporary exhibitions based on their collections. Free entry.
Learn more: Musée des Archives nationales
A hidden gem housing artworks and fascinating objects related to hunting and wildlife.
It is located in the private mansions of Guénégaud and Mongelas, at 60-62, rue des Archives, 75003 Paris.
The collections are also displayed at a second site, on the second floor of the Château de Chambord, where the Foundation has presented part of its collections of paintings, tapestries and contemporary art since 1971.
More information: Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
Ticketing: Musée de la Chasse et de la Nature
The mahJ occupies the former private mansion of the d’Avaux family, then of Saint-Aignan, in the Marais. (Hôtel de Saint-Aignan, 71 rue du Temple, 75003 Paris).
The museum traces the history of Jewish culture from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. Its collections of religious objects, manuscripts, and works of art highlight the contributions of Jews to France and the world. A significant place is given to the presence of Jews in the arts, featuring painters from the School of Paris (Chagall, Kikoïne, Soutine…) and contemporary artists (Christian Boltanski, Sophie Calle…).
Learn more: Musée d’art et d’histoire du Judaïsme
A dynamic cultural venue hosting events, exhibitions, and fitness classes, with a rich and varied history.
Hôtel de Soubise – A magnificent 18th-century private mansion with sumptuous interiors, now part of the National Archives.
Jewish Quarter (rue des Rosiers) – Immerse yourself in Paris’s Jewish heritage, sample excellent falafels, and explore historic synagogues.
Stroll along rue de la Corderie and rue des Gravilliers to admire some of the best urban art walls in Paris.
Don’t miss Galerie Itinerrance, a contemporary street art gallery featuring temporary exhibitions. More info: Galerie Itinerrance
The oldest covered market in Paris, with gourmet stalls offering French, Moroccan, Japanese and Caribbean cuisine.
Rue Vieille du Temple – Trendy fashion boutiques and concept stores.
Rue de Bretagne – Local shops, gourmet grocers and bakeries.
Boulevard Beaumarchais – Home to the Merci boutique and other chic designer stores.
Rue des Archives – High-end fashion and vintage boutiques.
Place des Vosges: located in the 4th arrondissement, but one side of the square is in the 3rd.
Square du Temple – Elie Wiesel – A peaceful green space, perfect for relaxing.
Cour de l’Hôtel de Soubise – A sublime and quiet inner courtyard to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Jardin Anne Frank – A small, peaceful garden hidden behind a medieval building.
Stroll through the neighborhood, where you’ll find designer boutiques, art galleries, and charming cafés.
Explore the hidden passages and courtyards (many historic homes are freely accessible!).
Galeries du Haut-Marais – The 3rd arrondissement is teeming with contemporary art galleries, a paradise for art lovers.
The Haut-Marais is renowned for its independent designers, stylish boutiques, and vintage shops. Notably rue Vieille-du-Temple, which houses trendy fashion stores, concept stores, and art galleries.
Merci (111 boulevard Beaumarchais) – One of Paris’s most famous concept stores, offering designer fashion, home decor, and books. It also has a charming café!
The Broken Arm (12 rue Perrée) – An ultra-trendy boutique blending high-end fashion (Loewe, Jacquemus, Comme des Garçons) with an integrated café.
Isabel Marant (47 rue de Saintonge) – Iconic Parisian fashion, known for its bohemian-rock style.
Maison Kitsuné (18 boulevard des Filles-du-Calvaire) – Stylish, modern French streetwear with minimalist lines.
A.P.C. (112 rue Vieille-du-Temple) – French minimalist fashion and denim for men and women.
Thanx God I’m a V.I.P. (12 rue de Lancry) – One of Paris’s best thrift stores, featuring designer pieces like Chanel or Hermès.
Kilo Shop (69 rue de la Verrerie) – Buy vintage clothing by the kilo – perfect for unique finds!
Free’p’star (61 rue de la Verrerie) – Affordable thrift store packed with trendy secondhand fashion.
Fleux’ (39 rue Sainte-Croix-de-la-Bretonnerie) – The best spot for decor items, gifts and stylish accessories.
Papier Tigre (5 rue des Filles-du-Calvaire) – A stationery and design boutique offering beautifully crafted notebooks and planners.
Bonton (5 boulevard des Filles-du-Calvaire) – An ultra-stylish concept store for children, featuring clothing, toys and adorable decor.
L’Atelier Paulin (20 rue de Turenne) – Customizable wire jewellery with engraved names or words.
Médecine Douce (10 rue de Marseille) – Delicate Parisian handcrafted jewellery with a bohemian style.
Nose Paris (20 Rue Bachaumont, but 200 m away in the 2ᵉ arrondissement) – Create a custom perfume based on your personality.
Candora Atelier Parfum (1 Rue du Pont Louis-Philippe, 300 m away in the 4ᵉ arrondissement) – Discover the art of French perfumery and craft your own fragrance.
Librairie Yvon Lambert (14 Rue des Filles du Calvaire) – A magnificently curated art bookstore specializing in photography and fashion.
Ofr. Paris (20 Rue Dupetit-Thouars) – A trendy independent bookstore and gallery space, perfect for finding rare pieces.
Merci – A concept store blending fashion, home decor, and a cozy café.
Episode – One of the best vintage clothing shops in Paris.
The Broken Arm – A high-end boutique offering fashion and specialty coffee.
Robert et Louise (64 Rue Vieille du Temple, 75003 Paris) – A rustic spot renowned for its wood-fired steaks.
Café Charlot (38 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris) – A trendy Parisian café, ideal for brunch or people-watching.
Bontemps (57 Rue de Bretagne, 75003 Paris) – A charming patisserie famous for its delicate shortbreads and cakes.
Little Red Door (60 Rue Charlot, 75003 Paris) – One of the world’s best cocktail bars, offering original creations in an intimate setting.
Le Mary Celeste (1 Rue Commines, 75003 Paris) – A trendy bar with artisanal cocktails, oysters and a lively atmosphere.
La Cave du Marais (56 R. de Turbigo, 75003 Paris) – A cozy wine cellar featuring an excellent selection of French wines.
Little Red Door (60 Rue Charlot, 75003 Paris) – An exceptional cocktail bar hidden behind a discreet red door.
Bisou (15 Bd du Temple, 75003 Paris) – A cocktail bar with no menu, where drinks are crafted based on your mood.
Stroll & Art in the Afternoon
Wander through the Musée Picasso or the charming streets of the Haut-Marais.
Enjoy a romantic moment at the Square du Temple.
Aperitif at Le Mary Celeste
Savor cocktails and oysters in this trendy bar, bathed in soft lighting.
A cozy, rustic steakhouse with a wood-fired grill — perfect for a romantic dinner.
Late-night drinks at Little Red Door
A speakeasy-style hidden bar offering exceptional cocktails.
Brunch at Café Charlot
A classic Parisian café with delicious pastries and brunch.
Gastronomic discovery at Marché des Enfants Rouges
Paris’s oldest food market, featuring stalls serving French, Moroccan, Japanese and Italian cuisine.
Coffee and pastries at Bontemps
Their shortbread cookies and fruit tarts are divine.
Dinner at Les Enfants du Marché
A hidden gem within the market — ideal for lovers of seafood and natural wines.
Wine tasting at La Cave du Marais
A charming local wine bar with a great selection.
Boutiques and concept stores
Merci – Stylish fashion, home decor and a lovely café.
The Broken Arm – Designer fashion and specialty café.
Episode – One of Paris’s best vintage shops.
Healthy snack break at Wild & The Moon
A organic and healthy café for a quick bite.
End the day with a chic cocktail at Bisou
A no-menu cocktail bar — just tell the bartender your favorite flavors!
Apéritif at La Candelaria
A cocktail bar hidden behind a taquería — a Mexican vibe in Paris!
Dinner at Les Chouettes
A stylish restaurant with a beautiful indoor glass-roofed atrium.
Late-night cocktails at Little Red Door
Ranked among the world’s best bars.
You can enjoy exploring the surrounding area by taking our self-guided walks that pass through the Marais district:
Self-guided walk from the Pompidou Museum to the Bastille via the Marais
Self-guided walk on the Île de la Cité in Paris, 800 years of history
Alternatively, you can also directly visit or see the following Points of Interest:
Musée des Arts et Métiers - Book tickets for Musée des Arts et Métiers
National Archives Museum - Tickets available on site
Museum of Hunting and Nature - On-site booking
Museum of Jewish Art and History - On-site booking
Place des Vosges: in the 4th arrondissement, but one side of the square is in the 3rd.
Victor Hugo’s House – Book Victor Hugo’s House (Place des Vosges in the Marais)
Square du Temple – Elie Wiesel – A peaceful green space, ideal for relaxation.
Courtyard of the Hôtel de Soubise – A sublime and quiet inner courtyard to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
Louvre Pyramid (1st)
Palais Royal Gardens (1st)
Rue Crémieux (12th)
And for a relaxing moment on the waters of the Canal Saint-Martin with boarding nearby at Port de l'Arsenal, Bastille side
Have you noticed that our website provides you with tools to help you easily organize your trip to Paris so that your stay is a stress-free success?
Do you struggle to find the right word or phrase in French? Click here on PHRASEBOOK – or at the top right of your screen. It’s a glossary of 100 useful words and/or phrases for a tourist visiting Paris. You’ll feel at ease at restaurants, hotels, shopping, the metro, greetings, asking for directions, and more. Eight languages are available. And guess what? You can also listen to each word and phrase in French.
There are many interesting and educational things to see in Paris. We strongly recommend organizing your stay well. To help you, we offer you Trip Generator FREE OF CHARGE.
In just 5 minutes and 5 clicks, you’ll get your half-day itinerary. Plus, all reservations—if you wish, with no obligation—for the sites you want to visit. You can also book your transport (plane, train, or car) and your accommodation. Even suggestions for valuable gift souvenirs for you, your friends, and your family.
How does it work?
Click on "Paris Trip Organizer"—completely free—which will save you the hassle of trying to see as much as possible in the least amount of time. Then, you’ll need to make your choices:
1/ Select your "general interests" by clicking on the list (Museums, Churches, Monuments, Parks, etc.);
2/ The VPBY Trip Generator will then provide you with all relevant listings;
3/ You select by clicking on the names of the museums, monuments, parks, or activities you want;
4/ The organizer will send you a day-by-day itinerary for your stay;
5/ with geographically optimized daily visits—if you wish—to avoid tiring, time-consuming travel.
It takes just 5 clicks and 3 minutes. And it’s completely free. To use it, click on "Paris Trip Organizer".
Note: Want to know what users of the VPBY Trip Generator think of their experience? Click on "They planned their trip with VPBY".
To avoid wasting time waiting in line, we recommend making your reservations online a few days in advance. All official reservations are available and can be found on our website:
Reservations to enter museums, monuments, shows, and Seine cruises
Reservations for your arrival in France: planes, trains, and cars
Reservations for your accommodation: hotels, apartments, guesthouses – in Paris or nearby
You can find links to all these reservations directly in the articles of the visits that interest you or in the self-guided routes of our walks. By clicking on "Reservations" in the header bar, you’ll have access to all the reservations you’ll need during your stay. For example:
Reservation for Notre-Dame de Paris entry (Free entry but reservations recommended to avoid the queue)
Book Château de Versailles: Entry Ticket + Gardens Access + Trianon Estate
These are high-definition collectible photos available in digital format or as long-lasting prints (75 to 100 years). They come in sizes ranging from postcard to large wall art (1 meter or more). A lifelong keepsake to decorate your home. Quality souvenirs (unlike typical plastic Eiffel Towers or snow globes). At very affordable prices. Click on:
Reportage by professional photographers in Paris at locations of your choice or suggested by us. A "family" reportage, wedding, or other events. From 1 hour to a full day. The best quality-to-price ratio. Click on :