Le Marais Tour Guide

The 17th century saw extensive development in Le Marais as rich aristocrats began to construct their palaces and hotels for tourists who came to take the Le Marais Tour. The rich aristocracy realized the real estate potential of the Marais district and with the rich agri-land in la Douce France providing foundation for the aristocracies' fortunes; it began to be the preferred choice for regal chateaux, which was to become their permanent abode. Some others built pompous mansions as a symbol of their power. While many of these mansions have been converted into condos, their unique and intricate facades are still striking in their appeal and a delight to watch as you amble through these narrow streets during the Le Marais Tour.

Today, several of these old Hotel Particulars have been preserved by the government and used as museums including the Picasso Museum at Hotel Aubert de Fontenay, the Historical Library at Hotel Lamoignon, and the Parisian History Museum at Hotel Carnavalet. Moreover, some striking hotels such as Hotel Liberal Bruand, and Hotel des Ambassadeurs de Hollande in Le Marais are still privately owned. So why not club a lunch at one of the wonderfully French restaurants in Marais with a visit to the Picasso Museum, All these can be easily witnessed in a Le Marais Tour!

The Le Marais district, also known as the Gay district, once a swamp, has metamorphosed into a gorgeous, quaint neighborhood and has also become the home to the Jewish community in Paris. A highly expensive, trendy, and fashionable residential area, Le Marais is also home to some of the hippest and hottest bars as well as gay restaurants, great delicatessens, and boutiques, especially on the streets such as rue Ste-Croix-de-la-Bretonnerie, rue des Archives, and rue Vieille du Temple. Two popular areas on the outskirts of the Le Marais neighborhood are very crowded and older markets, now replaced by modern and swanky malls, Les Halles and Montorgueil.

A Parisian neighborhood that implores you to walk around and explore the narrow statuesque streets, this interesting area offers everything from history to modern day exploits. After you have completed your customary tour of the Louvre, D’Orsay, the Orangerie, make a trip to the Pompidou Center. The center is a modern art museum, but its architecture is an art form that mustn’t be missed. Also not be missed in the Le Marais is the Place des Vosges, a wonderful square made in the 17th century, it has a covered arcade and plenty of first-rate restaurants and trendy shops.

The Le Marais is the bastion of the gay population in Paris and offers visitors plenty of small and enjoyable surprises that make the visit to this neighborhood worthwhile!