3me Arrondissement

The Third is one of the smaller arrondissements of Paris, only beat out buy the Second. Also located on the Right bank, this charming district is an amalgamation  of cultures, containing the northern
most reaches of Le Marais, the medieval district of Paris (though Le Marais also expands into the Fourth). Also housing part of the Jewish quarter, the Third is home to the Museum of Judaic Art and History, as well as the Guimard’s Agoudas Hakehilos Synagogue. A budding Chinatown is also thriving in the Third.

This district is home to several museums, including the popular Picasso Museum. The Baroque mansion that houses some of the Spanish painter’s works has been closed for several years for renovations, but is set to reopen in the fall of 2014. The Musée Carnavalet, dedicated to the history of Paris, is also located in the Third, housed in a Renaissance residential building. Other museums in the district include the Musee des Arts et Metiers, the French National Archives (Hotel de Soubise), and Musee de la Poupee, the Paris Doll Museum.

If you are looking to stay in the Third, there are several different options you can choose from. For an more unique experience, try the L’Hotel du Petit Moulin; this artsy boutique hotel is sure to wow you with its colourful decor. If you’re after a more traditional hotel, the Pavillon de la Reine, with its ivy-covered facade, will charm any traveller. The interior decor will make you feel as if you are in the poshest of hotels, while the garden is perfect for enjoying the weather.

Suggested restaurants in the Third include Derriere and L’Ami Louis. The former will provide you with the feel of a meal eaten outdoors in your backyard, but be sure to make a reservation. The latter features modest decor, but is heralded as one of the finest restaurants the Third has to offer.