4th arrondissement

One of the oldest neighbourhoods in Paris, the 4th arrondissement is the medieval heart of the capital and is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Hôtel de Ville and the fashionable Le Marais district. With a palpable history, bars, restaurants and shops, this area is particularly popular with tourists. The 4th arrondissement is divided into three official districts, each with a unique personality. The Saint-Merri district is a pedestrian area with an eclectic mix of historic buildings from the 14th, 15th and 16th centuries. The grand Hôtel de Ville of Paris, the town hall, can be found here too.

The Saint-Gervais district is the most densely populated part of the 4th arrondissement and its streets are lined with beautiful mansions. The Arsenal neighbourhood is also located in this district and is home to the Arsenal Harbour and the Arsenal Bookstore which is one of the city’s most famous bookstores.

Finally, the Notre-Dame district is made up of two small natural islands: Ile de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis. One named Lutetia, this area is the birthplace of Paris and has many beautiful buildings, including its namesake: the Cathedral of Notre-Dame.

Though not an official district, Le Marais is a neighbourhood of historic and cultural importance. Le Marais is spread across the 4th and 3rd arrondissements with its liveliest part in the 4th arrondissement. A popular haunt for celebrities, this neighbourhood has thriving gay and Jewish communities and plenty of bars, art galleries, restaurants and shops.

The experts say

The 4th arrondissement is a reflection of typical Paris: rich not only in history and culture but also entertainment with many bars and restaurants. With plenty of trendy shops in Le Marais, this arrondissement is also a notable fashion hub. Located right at the heart of the bustling capital, this neighbourhood offers an attractive lifestyle which will seduce both Parisian and international buyers.

The property market in 4th arrondissement

With high ceilings, exposed beams and roof terraces, properties in the 4th arrondissement are perfect for those who love Paris’s old-world charm.

Le Marais has become one of the most sought-after neighbourhoods in this district. Many Parisians love to live there and could not imagine living anywhere else. Place des Vosges and the heart of Le Marais are particularly popular areas for international buyers. The high demand for property in these areas means that apartments for sale here are a rare find. This is also the case for residences on the banks of the Seine where the demand exceeds supply.

However, property for sale is rarest on Île Saint-Louis and real estate prices here have a reputation for shooting up in value. The most affordable property can be found in the eastern part of the 4th arrondissement, near Bastille and Quai de la Rapée.

In general, prices here vary from €12,000 to €20,000 per square metre with some exceptional sales fetching as much as €30,000 per square metre. As a guideline, a family property of 70 to 120 square metres will cost at least €15,000 per square metre. However, there is a demand for larger properties in excess of €2m from international buyers.

Three insiders tips for 4th arrondissement

TO VISIT - Place des Vosges is a former royal residence which will enchant you with its beautiful lush gardens and its famous fountain. This stunning residence was also Victor Hugo’s backdrop when he was writing he wrote Les Misérables as he used to live in an apartment across the road.

TO EAT - Les Fous de l’Ile is a Michelin-starred restaurant serving authentic French favourites with a welcoming atmosphere.
TO DO - Simply stroll through the streets of the 4th arrondissement. With boutique shops, authentic cafes and charming terraces, like those of St Catherine's Square, the streets here are an attraction in their own right. Rue des Francs Bourgeois and Rue du Trésor are not to be missed.
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