If you’re not familiar with how Paris is laid out, you may like to know that the city of Paris is separated into twenty neighborhoods – or arrondissements. Each have a number that people refer to such as saying “I live in the 6th” which is also commonly known as Saint Germain. The 2nd arrondissement, also known as Sentier, is a wonderful gem of a neighborhood in Paris and has plenty to discover. As the founder of En Route to Rêverie, a travel advisory specializing in Paris, I’m very familiar with the city and its various neighborhoods and love exploring gems in each.
A Guide To The 2nd Arrondissement In Paris
The 2nd arrondissement sits just above the 1st arrondissement where many tourists tend to spend much of their time. It runs from about Place Madeleine in the West to Boulevard de Sébastopol and Les Halles in the East. It is a lively neighborhood full of shops and eateries and while a small neighborhood, it has plenty to see and do.
Things To Do In 2nd Arrondissement Paris
Explore Rue Montorgueil
Arguably the most lively street in the 2nd, the famed Rue Montorgueil is a pedestrian street with cafés to enjoy a terrace lunch or verre du vin as well as patisseries, flower shops and several other iconic boutiques from brands worth exploring while visiting Paris.
Take in a show at the Opéra Comique
This beautiful Opéra sits on a stunning square tucked away and allows for the opportunity to go see a show in one of the most historic settings in Paris.
Get an eclair at Strohrer
Stohrer is the oldest patisserie in Paris and was founded in 1730 by King Louis XV’s pastry chef, Nicolas Stohrer. The store still operates out of its Rue Montorgueil location and is known for their eclairs in particular.
Have drinks at Bamboo
This is a small and fun little bar serving up inventive cocktails with a fun, chill staff.
Have a donut at Boneshaker Donuts
Donuts don’t abound in Paris the way they do in the States but the French adore this donut shop making big, fluffy donuts in all kinds of flavors. I don’t think the donuts are as good as what we can get at some places in the U.S. but if you’re in need of a donut fix, this is the spot to do it in Paris.
Get croissants at Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Terroirs d’Avenir
On a charming small street this pocket-sized boulangerie is serving up delicious croissants and other breads.
Shop at Sézane
Sézane opened their first Paris store in the 2nd arrondissement and it remains their most popular outpost for locals and tourists alike. Looking for recommendations on what to buy? Read my The Best Sezane Essentials Guide.
Walk Rue Saint Denis
This is one of the oldest streets in Paris and it runs through both the 2nd arrondissement and the 1st arrondissement.
Explore the covered Passages
Paris is home to a variety of charming and stories passages and the majority of them are actually found in the 2nd arrondissement. Notably, don’t miss the Passage du Grand Cerf and the Passage des Panoramas.
Shop at A. Simon
Love to cook? You won’t want to miss the opportunity to browse this kitchen supply store that will help you level up your game when in your own kitchen.
Best Restaurants In 2nd Arrondissement Paris
Have lunch at Chez Georges
This gilded and traditional style bistro serves up classic dishes in an old-world setting that satisfies.
Have dinner at Pizzaria Popolare
You’ll spot this restaurant not by the name outside but rather the line down the block. Their delicious pizzas are enjoyed in a big, beautiful space lined with colorful alcohol bottles.
Have dinner at Frenchie Wine Bar
One of the most celebrated restaurants in Paris in the last decade this spot has seasonally-forward dishes that change each evening. You’ll want to arrive early to secure a table.
I prefer the Wine Bar to the sister restaurant, Frenchie, with a Michelin star.
Best Hotels In 2nd Arrondissement Paris
Looking to stay in the 2nd? I have a variety of hotels I work with as a luxury travel advisor and the founder of En Route to Rêverie which means I can help you make your reservation while enjoying VIP perks and amenities such as complimentary upgrades, spa or food/beverage credits, complimentary breakfast and/or early check-in and late check out. If interested in having me help you book your hotel, reach out via En Route to Rêverie.
I think staying in the 2nd can sometimes be the best Arrondissement to stay in Paris for first time visitors. It offers more value than the 1st but still allows for you to walk to a variety of tourist attractions and Paris bucket list items.
Hotel Bachaumont
Located on a charming street, this 4 star hotel is decorated in an art deco style and is under fifteen minutes away from the Louvre by foot.
Hotel Grands Boulevards
Featuring a beautiful entryway that helps you escape off the busy Boulevard Poissonnière, this spot has stylish rooms and a popular bar.
The Hoxton Paris
Beloved by locals as a hangout in the gorgeous atrium and a go-to spot for meetings amidst a stylish crowd, The Hoxton offers elevated yet well-priced accommodations at their 4 star Paris property.
2nd Arrondissement Attractions
Passage des Panoramas
The oldest and arguably one of the most charming covered passages in all of Paris.
Passage du Grand Cerf
One of the tallest covered passages in Paris.
Le Grand Rex
This is the largest cinema in all of Europe dating back to 1932!
Galerie Vivienne
My personal favorite covered passage. It sits just behind the Palais Royal with two entrances including one on Rue Vivienne. It dates back to the 19th century and has several charming stores to explore while also being beautiful to photograph.
Paris Stock Exchange
Now known as Euronext Paris, the Paris Stock Exchange can be seen in the 2nd arrondissement having been built there in the early 1800s.
Square Louvois
A compact yet picturesque little park featuring a fountain.
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Do you have a favorite arrondissement of Paris? I’d love to know in the comments!
Heading to Paris? Book En Route to Rêverie with me and get customized recommendations based on your travel preferences to make your next trip to Paris the best one yet.
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