ALX Guide: The 2nd Arrondissement of Paris

The 2nd arrondissement of Paris is one of the more underrated districts in the city. It's no surprise that it's not as popular as, say, the 7th arrondissement with the Eiffel Tower or the 18th arrondissement with Montmartre. There's hardly any iconic spot in this part of the French capital. So does that mean the place is not worth exploring? Of course, not! The 2nd arrondissement has many charms of its own, including the city's Japanese quarter, the gilded Opéra Comique, the beloved Grand Rex movie theater, and more. Let this guide tell you more about it.

 

 

Is the 2nd Arrondissement in Paris Safe?

For the most part, it is. The crime rates in Paris do tend to be high, but that doesn't necessarily affect the 2nd arrondissement. The area is generally safe and some would even go so far as to say it's one of the quietest parts of the city. The district does, however, have parts you'd do well to avoid. The area around Les Halles, the city's central food market, for example, tends to be sketchy. You're better off not going here at night, even more so if you're all alone. The area near Théâtre du Châtelet, which borders the 2nd and 1st arrondissements, is also worth avoiding at night. 

  

Is the 2nd Arrondissement in Paris Safe for Families?

Yes, it is. As already mentioned, the 2nd arrondissement is one of the city's quietest districts. While it's not the safest area, it's still safe enough for families with little kids. It helps that there are many metro and bus stations nearby. You can easily take public transport in Paris from here, which allows you to take your little ones to the more exciting attractions in the French capital. At the same time, the 2nd arrondissement has its fair share of Parisian schools too. You can enroll your children in either Middle School Public César Franck on Rue de la Jussienne or Public Elementary School de Louvois on Rue de Louvois, among many others. 

  

  

Is the 2nd Arrondissement in Paris Nice?

Yes, it is. For one thing, this is where you'll find the famous Rue Montorgueil, an electrifying street lined with excellent restaurants, cafes, shops, boutiques, and more. Whether you want to eat or shop, this is the place to do it all. The liveliness of Rue Montorgueil is enough to make the 2nd arrondissement one of the best neighborhoods in Paris. Not only is it a central part of the city, but it's also near a fairly residential area with many luxury apartments in Paris. You'll find it easy to snag a home in this part of town! 

  

Is the 2nd Arrondissement in Paris a Good Place to Stay?

There's no doubt about it: the 2nd arrondissement is a great place to stay. Why? Because it gives you the best of both worlds. You've come to the right place if you moved to Paris for its divine culinary scene and electric nightlife. At the same time, if you still yearn for a fairly quiet city life, then you couldn't have picked a better place to settle down in. With the 2nd arrondissement as big as it is, it's no surprise that some parts are lively and exciting, and other parts are peaceful and largely residential. 

  

  

What to Do in 2nd Arrondissement Paris

You already know that Rue Montorgueil, the center of the Montorgueil district, is one of the best places in Paris to eat and drink, right? Beyond its bevy of bars, bistros, cafes, and even Michelin-starred restaurants, this famous street is lined with countless cheese shops, wine shops, boulangeries, and more. If you're the type to just have a quick bite and dip, then you'll love Rue Montorgueil. As for the other parts of the 2nd arrondissement, there's also Le Grand Rex on Boulevard Poissonnière, the most beloved cinema in Paris. It's also the biggest of its kind in all of Europe! 

  

Best Restaurants Near 2nd Arrondissement of Paris

Since it's no secret that 2nd arrondissement is a foodie haven, where exactly do you eat here? Well, a good place to start is, of course, Rue Montorgueil. Here, you'll find the likes of Le Compas, La Grille, Montorgueil, Bistro Burger Montorgueil, La Perla, Bella Sera, Little Italy Caffe, La Boca, and more. Some spots nearby are worth checking out too. Bambou on Rue des Jeuneurs, for example, is one of the best Thai restaurants in Paris. Once you've tasted their Pad Thai and Massaman Beef Curry, you won't go anywhere else for your Thai cuisine fix! Don't overlook Aux Crus de Bourgogne on Rue Bachaumont too! The place serves dishes from the Burgundy region, giving you a taste of the French countryside. 

  

  

The 2nd arrondissement of Paris may not be the most famous part of the city but that doesn't make it any less worth your while. Get lost in this underrated area with all its nostalgic novelties and unique Parisian charms!