Paris can be expensive, and one way to save money is to stay in one of the many Paris vacation rentals, especially if there are several of you travelling. Rentals can be found all over the city, although some areas are pricier or more desirable than others. And to have any private outdoor space, you’ll probably have to stay in the suburbs, rather than in the centre, where space is at a premium.
Look at a map of Paris and you’ll see that it’s divided into 20 neighbourhoods, which spiral out from the historic city centre. As far as convenience to the major sights, the 1st and the 8th arrondissements are perhaps the best areas to stay in, with the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Opera and the famous shopping street the Champs Elysees all within easy reach. However, these two areas are also home to some of the priciest places to stay in the city.
To economize, consider staying in a Paris vacation rentals in one of the outlying areas of Paris, which are still considered to be the city centre. The 18th arrondissement of Montmartre was once the artistic and Bohemian area of the city, and much of this area still retains that atmosphere, along with secluded streets and squares. Staying here puts you within easy reach of the beautiful Sacre Coeur Cathedral, the historic Montmartre cemetery and the huge flea market at Porte de Clignancourt.
Another area to consider that’s often more affordable is the area around the 11th and 20th arrondissements. One of the most visited sights in Paris can be enjoyed here, the historic and atmospheric Pere Lachaise cemetery, home to dozens of famous artists, writers, politicians and other notables. The popular Marais district and the Place De La Bastille are close to here, and France’s largest science museum is a short Metro journey away.
It would be a crime to visit Paris and not eat at one of the city’s thousands of cafes, bistros or restaurants. However, staying in a vacation rental also provides you with a kitchen, and preparing and cooking some meals can also save money, rather than eating out several times a day. Keep in mind that the kitchen in a typical Paris apartment can be small and cramped, but otherwise perfectly adequate. It’s all part of immersing yourself in the experience and feeling like you’re living in Paris, rather than just visiting.