Finding the best place to live as a student in Paris can be challenging due to the numerous options available.

However, the city's diverse neighbourhoods offer unique living experiences, catering to different preferences and budgets. 

This post will highlight five of the best places in Paris for students, focusing on their distinct characteristics, amenities, and proximity to educational institutions.

Key Takeaways 

• Some neighbourhoods are more affordable than others, so consider your budget when choosing where to live. Public transportation access is crucial as it impacts your daily commute and overall convenience.

• Each arrondissement in Paris offers a unique atmosphere, catering to various lifestyles and preferences. Exploring different areas can help you find the one that best suits your needs, whether you prefer a lively student environment or a more tranquil residential setting.

• Living close to your university can save time and transportation costs, allowing you to focus more on your studies and less on commuting.

Best Neighbourhoods for Students in Paris

These neighbourhoods are located in various parts of Paris, each offering unique atmospheres and amenities to cater to diverse student preferences.

Each area provides convenient access to public transportation, educational institutions, and cultural landmarks, ensuring a well-rounded student living experience.

Let’s explore each neighbourhood below.

1) Latin Quarter (5th and 6th Arrondissements)

The Latin Quarter is renowned for its rich academic history and vibrant student life. Home to prestigious institutions like Sorbonne University, École Normale Supérieure, and the Paris School of Economics. This area is filled with cafes, bookstores, and cultural landmarks. The famous Rue Mouffetard is a favourite spot for students to unwind and socialize.

Moving around in this neighbourhood is easy. The area is served by several metro lines, including lines 4, 10, and 7, and the RER B, which provides direct access to both Charles de Gaulle and Orly airports. There are also several bus routes in the area.

Accommodation in the Latin Quarter ranges from charming historic apartments to modern student residences. There are also contemporary housing options tailored to student needs. Though rental prices can be on the higher side due to its prime location, students often find the investment worthwhile.

2) Le Marais (3rd and 4th Arrondissements)

Le Marais, covering the 3rd and 4th Arrondissements of Paris, is one of the city’s most vibrant and historically rich neighbourhoods. It is a trendy and diverse neighbourhood that is home to many communities, including a significant Jewish population and a vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. 

The area boasts numerous boutiques, galleries, and cafes, making it attractive for students who enjoy a lively and inclusive environment. It is ideally situated for students attending several prominent institutions in Paris, such as the École des Beaux-Arts, Paris College of Art, and the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris-Belleville.

Le Marais is served by several metro lines, including lines 1, 3, 7, 8, and 11, which provide direct access to key areas of the city. The proximity to major metro hubs like Hôtel de Ville and République ensures that students can quickly reach their schools. Regarding student accommodation, shared apartments, studio rentals, and purpose-built student housing are available, catering to different preferences and budgets.

3) Belleville (20th Arrondissement)

Belleville offers a more trendy option for students due to its affordability, artistic vibe, and strong sense of community. The neighbourhood is conveniently located for students attending various institutions across Paris. It is particularly close to the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris-Belleville, making it a perfect choice for architecture students.

Thanks to Belleville’s excellent transport links, students in the nearby 11th Arrondissement, such as the École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales (EHESS) and the Paris Institute of Political Studies (Sciences Po), can easily access campus while living in the neighbourhood.

Belleville is famous for its diverse food scene, which combines traditional French cuisine with international flavours, particularly from China, North Africa, and the Middle East. The lively Rue de Belleville and the nearby Belleville Market provide affordable dining options and fresh produce, perfect for students on a budget.

Accommodation in Belleville is more affordable compared to many other central Paris neighbourhoods. The area offers a variety of housing options, including shared apartments, studios, and student residences. It is an excellent choice for students who appreciate a bohemian lifestyle and a multicultural environment.

4) Canal Saint-Martin (10th Arrondissement)

The Canal Saint-Martin area is popular among young professionals and students for its trendy cafes, bars, and scenic waterways. It is close to the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris and the Paris College of Art. The area’s central location also allows quick commutes to other universities across Paris, including the Sorbonne and Sciences Po.

The neighbourhood has several trendy cafés, bars, bakeries, grocery stores and restaurants, making it easy for students to find fresh ingredients and delicious treats. One of the major perks of living in Canal Saint-Martin is its scenic environment. The canal is lined with trees, charming footbridges and pathways, creating a serene setting perfect for leisurely walks, jogging, or simply relaxing by the water.

The area is also well-connected by metro lines and is close to major railway stations, Gare du Nord and Gare de l'Est, for easy travel within and outside Paris. Canal Saint-Martin features a mix of historic Haussmannian buildings and modern apartments, many of which offer stunning views of the canal. Students can find shared apartments, studios, and student residences throughout the neighbourhood,

5) La Villette (19th Arrondissement)

La Villette is an emerging neighbourhood known for its green spaces and cultural venues. It hosts the Parc de la Villette, one of the largest parks in Paris, which includes various music venues, cinemas, and exhibition spaces. 

This neighbourhood is home to and near several educational institutions. The Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique et de Danse de Paris, one of the world’s leading music and dance schools, is located nearby, as are other institutions like the École Nationale Supérieure d’Architecture de Paris-La Villette. The neighbourhood's excellent transport links also allow easy access to other universities and colleges across Paris.

Regarding accommodation, the area features modern apartment buildings, many of which offer views of the park or the canal and more affordable shared apartments and student residences. Thanks to the neighbourhood's ongoing development, there is an increase in housing options, making it easier for students to find accommodation that fits their budget and lifestyle.

Co-living spaces have also emerged in La Villette, catering specifically to students and young professionals. These spaces offer fully furnished rooms, shared common areas, and a sense of community, which can be especially appealing for those new to Paris.

6 Luxury Student Accommodation Paris

Now that you know the best areas to live in Paris, here are some of the most exclusive private student accommodation Paris has to offer. These apartments are offered by Student Luxe and are the epitome of luxury student living in the best arrondissements in the city.

See the apartments in the gallery below.

These apartments come fully furnished and are equipped with luxury, hotel-style amenities like

• pool

• gym

• concierge service

• reception

• balconies

• elevators

• modern appliances

And some units are pet-friendly. Student Luxe also offers flexible lease terms, so you can stay for as long or as short as you want without any issues. Book your ideal luxury student accommodation in Paris today!

Wrapping Up

Living in Paris as a student offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and academic excellence. Each neighbourhood has its charm and caters to different preferences and budgets.  Whether you prefer the historical ambience of the Latin Quarter, the trendy vibe of Le Marais, or the artistic spirit of Belleville, Paris has something to offer every student. Explore these neighbourhoods to find the best fit for your lifestyle and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

About Us

Student Luxe are the preferred choice for guests seeking superior comfort, flexibility & service for their studies - providing some of the most luxurious and private student accommodation Paris has to offer.

Most of these apartments are in the best parts of the city, with amazing on-site amenities and flexible booking perks.

If we can assist with your apartment search in any way, please let our experts know.

We look forward to hosting you soon.