Choosing a great base for Paris - which district is best for me?

Question

I am travelling to Paris alone, and of course, I am concerned about safety, especially at night, after dinner and maybe after a couple drinks. I do not wish to travel alone late in the evening. I am currently booked in a hotel in the 10e, near the Gare de l'Eest, but now not so sure, since there seems like nothing to do there once I am done with sightseeing in the day and before I turn in.

I would appreciate any other suggestions.

Answer 1

Its not that the area around the Gare de L'est is particularly dangerous but its rather inconvenient since its away from most of the places a tourist would like to see and the restaurants and nightlife you will probably want to patronize.

The 1st, 4th, 5th and 6th arrondissements would all be more convenient.

Answer 2

Depends how much money you want to put in it. I would recommand closer to the center if you intend to come back late and not at your sharpest. Take taxis to come back, they are not that expensive. Do not take a hotel in Paris La Defense, despite the name of Paris it isn't in fact in Paris.

Answer 3

I don't think the area around Gare de l'Est and the Gare du Nord is particularly dangerous, but some may consider it a little seedy.  I have to spend a night alone in Paris this summer while passing through to Strasbourg, and even though staying near the Gare de l'Est would be convient for me to catch my train, as a woman travelling alone, I have opted to stay in a hotel a little farther away from that area.  

If you are interested in staying out late, I would recommend an area near the Latin Quarter, which is located on the Left Bank near the Sorbonne (5th arrondissement or district).  There you will find lots of cafes, clubs, etc. that stay open late.  I particularly enjoy anything on the Rue Mouffetard.  This area is particularly popular with students.

Answer 4

I too, traveled alone to Paris several years back.  I stayed at Hotel Muget, which was recommended to me by a travel writer friend.

It is located in the 7th Arr. and within an easy walk of latin quarter and eiffel tower.  It is quiet and safe with several bistros nearby.  Also easy to pick up some picnic items on rue de Buci    You can feel safe dining, visiting the Eiffel tower, or enjoying the Thursday evening hours at Musee d'Orsay and returning home later in the evening .

Muget is very woman friendly.  The lobby is staffed around the clock by polite and watchful ladies (and several charming resident dogs.)  You leave your key with them when you leave, and pick it up on your return.   No fear of losing a purse or keys and being locked out!  

The rooms were $65 per night when i was there, but a remodel and high tourist season probably means about 100eu

Bon Voyage!