By Blaise Jaeger · Updated July 25, 2026

A Personal Connection to the 9th & 10th Arrondissements

My first apartment in Paris was on Boulevard Bonne Nouvelle, a lively spot in the heart of the Grands Boulevards area. That is why I spent many years exploring the 9th and 10th arrondissements, falling in love with their blend of history, culture, and modern energy. These districts are full of contrasts—home to the grand Opéra Garnier, bustling shopping streets, hidden covered passages, and the relaxed charm of Canal Saint-Martin. The Grands Boulevards are also very close to Montorgueil, my favorite place in Paris, and generally a cheaper option to stay in the city. Whether you’re interested in stunning architecture, shopping, food, or nightlife, these neighborhoods offer an authentic Parisian experience. In this guide, I’ll take you through the must-see spots and hidden gems of the 9th and 10th arrondissements.

The 9th & 10th at a Glance

• Location: Right Bank, just north of the center, around the Grands Boulevards, the Opéra Garnier, and Canal Saint-Martin.
• Best for: Shopping, grand architecture, theaters and cabarets, covered passages, and a relaxed canal-side atmosphere.
• Don’t miss: The Palais Garnier, Galeries Lafayette’s rooftop, Passage Jouffroy, and an evening along the Canal Saint-Martin.
• Getting there: Métro Grands Boulevards (lines 8, 9), Opéra (3, 7, 8), and République (3, 5, 8, 9, 11) put you right in the middle of it.
• Good to know: A central, well-connected, and often better-value area to stay, a short walk from Montorgueil and the Louvre.

Opéra Garnier & Theaters: Parisian Elegance at Its Finest

One of the most breathtaking landmarks in the 9th arrondissement is the Palais Garnier. Built in the late 19th century, this opera house is a masterpiece of architecture, with its grand marble staircase, gilded balconies, and the famous ceiling painted by Marc Chagall in 1964. You can visit on your own during the day (tickets are around €15), but my recommendation is to take a guided tour to fully appreciate its opulent interiors. Or, for an unforgettable evening, attend a ballet or opera performance under the great chandelier.

Beyond the Opéra Garnier, the 9th arrondissement is also known for its rich theater scene. The Théâtre Mogador, one of the city’s most famous musical theaters, regularly hosts Broadway-style productions. The last time I went, it was to see an amazing performance of The Lion King. The Folies Bergère, an iconic venue with a history dating back to the 19th century, is also perfect for those who enjoy cabaret and variety shows.

The Grands Boulevards & Shopping

The Grands Boulevards area is synonymous with shopping, entertainment, and classic Haussmannian architecture. One of the most famous streets, Boulevard Haussmann, is home to Paris’ most iconic department stores: Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann.

• Galeries Lafayette: Known for its luxurious brands, its magnificent stained-glass dome, and a free rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Paris.
• Printemps Haussmann: A haven for fashion lovers, with an elegant Art Nouveau dome and exclusive designer collections.

For a more intimate shopping experience, explore the Passage Jouffroy and Passage des Panoramas. These covered passages are filled with charming bookstores, antique shops, stamp dealers, and cozy cafés, offering a glimpse into 19th-century Paris. Passage des Panoramas, opened in 1800, is one of the oldest covered arcades in the city.

Canal Saint-Martin & République: The Trendy, Relaxed Side of Paris

A short walk from the busy Grands Boulevards, the Canal Saint-Martin offers a completely different atmosphere. This picturesque canal, lined with trees and iron footbridges, is a favorite spot for locals to picnic, stroll, or enjoy a drink at one of the many waterfront cafés.

• Canal Saint-Martin boat tours: A great way to explore the area from a different perspective, gliding through its locks and under its footbridges.
• Quai de Jemmapes & Quai de Valmy: Lively spots where Parisians gather in the evening, especially in summer.

Nearby, Place de la République is not only a historical square but also a popular meeting point. It has played a key role in French history, hosting demonstrations and celebrations. Today, it’s surrounded by trendy bars and street art, making it a cultural hotspot in the 10th arrondissement.

Where to Eat: Best Restaurants, Cafés & Bakeries

The 9th and 10th arrondissements are home to some of the best dining spots in Paris. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Parisian brasserie, a trendy café, or an international restaurant, you’ll find plenty of options.

• Historic brasseries near the Grands Boulevards: Classic French cuisine in beautiful period settings.
• Trendy cafés near Canal Saint-Martin: Perfect for brunch and specialty coffee.
• Wine bars near République: A must for wine lovers, with lively evening crowds.

One of my personal favorites is Le Bouillon Chartier, a historic restaurant serving delicious traditional French dishes at very affordable prices, in a listed 1896 dining room. If you’re in the mood for pastries, don’t miss Du Pain et des Idées, one of the best bakeries in Paris, famous for its pistachio escargot and its flavored breads.

Where to Stay in the 9th & 10th

This is one of the most convenient and best-value areas to base yourself in Paris: central, superbly connected by métro, and within walking distance of the department stores, the Opéra, and Montorgueil. Options by budget:

• Upscale: InterContinental Paris Le Grand, the legendary palace hotel right beside the Opéra Garnier, and the boutique Grands Boulevards Hotel by the Experimental group.
• Mid-range: Holiday Inn Paris Opéra – Grands Boulevards, reliable and central, in a handsome Haussmannian building.
• Charming & affordable: Hôtel Chopin, a wonderfully atmospheric hotel tucked right inside the covered Passage Jouffroy.

👉 Compare the latest prices for hotels near the Grands Boulevards on Booking.com.

Not Far from the 9th & 10th Arrondissements

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Père Lachaise Cemetery is the largest and most famous cemetery in Paris, known for its serene atmosphere and historic significance. Established in 1804, it is the final resting place of numerous renowned figures, including Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, and Frédéric Chopin. With its tree-lined paths, elaborate tombs, and intricate sculptures, Père Lachaise feels more like an open-air museum than a typical cemetery. Visitors from around the world come to explore its rich history, admire its artistic memorials, and pay tribute to the many writers, musicians, and artists buried there. If you enjoy it, the equally atmospheric Montparnasse Cemetery on the Left Bank is well worth a visit too.

Explore More of Paris

Frequently Asked Questions About the 9th & 10th Arrondissements

Where are the 9th and 10th arrondissements in Paris?

They sit on the Right Bank, just north of the city center. The 9th is home to the Opéra Garnier and the Grands Boulevards department stores, while the 10th stretches up around Canal Saint-Martin and Place de la République.

Can you visit the Palais Garnier opera house?

Yes. The Palais Garnier is open for self-guided daytime visits (tickets around €15), and guided tours are available for a closer look at the grand staircase, the auditorium, and Chagall’s painted ceiling. You can also, of course, attend an opera or ballet performance.

What are the best department stores near the Grands Boulevards?

Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann, both on Boulevard Haussmann, are the two great Parisian department stores. Don’t miss Galeries Lafayette’s stained-glass dome and its free rooftop terrace, which has one of the best free views in the city.

What are the covered passages in this area?

The 9th arrondissement is famous for its 19th-century covered passages, especially Passage Jouffroy and Passage des Panoramas. These glass-roofed arcades are full of bookshops, stamp and antique dealers, and cafés, and make a lovely rainy-day walk.

What is there to do at Canal Saint-Martin?

Canal Saint-Martin is best enjoyed slowly: stroll its tree-lined quays, picnic by the water, browse the independent shops, or take a boat tour through its locks. In the evening, the Quai de Jemmapes and Quai de Valmy fill with locals having a drink.

Is the Grands Boulevards area a good place to stay in Paris?

Very much so. It’s central, exceptionally well served by the métro, and generally better value than the most touristy districts, while being within walking distance of Montorgueil, the Louvre, and the department stores. It’s one of my top recommendations for a first stay.

Where should I eat in the 9th and 10th arrondissements?

For affordable, traditional French food in a gorgeous historic room, Le Bouillon Chartier is a classic. For pastries, Du Pain et des Idées is one of the best bakeries in Paris. Around Canal Saint-Martin you’ll also find excellent brunch spots and specialty coffee.

How do I get to the 9th and 10th arrondissements?

Take métro lines 8 or 9 to Grands Boulevards or Richelieu-Drouot, lines 3, 7, or 8 to Opéra, or the many lines serving République for the 10th. The area is also very walkable from the Louvre and Montorgueil.

Who is buried in Père Lachaise Cemetery?

Père Lachaise, opened in 1804, is the resting place of Oscar Wilde, Jim Morrison, Edith Piaf, Frédéric Chopin, Marcel Proust, and many other artists and writers. Its tree-lined paths and elaborate tombs make it feel like an open-air museum, and entry is free.

Are the 9th and 10th arrondissements safe?

Yes, they are lively, popular areas both day and night. As anywhere in a big city, keep an eye on your belongings around the busy stations and department stores, and around Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est in the northern 10th, but there’s no reason to avoid the neighborhood.