Located on the right bank of the River Seine, the 2nd arrondissement is best known as the location of the Bourse (stock exchange), which makes it France’s financial center. This is also where you will find “les galeries”, covered upscale shopping areas 
that date back to the 19th century. The arrondissement is also home to Paris’ textile district, known as the Sentier, and the Opéra-Comique concert hall.
Metro stops: The most commonly used metro stops in the 2nd arrondissement are Opéra, Réamur-Sébastopol and Etienne Marcel.
What to do in the 2nd Arrondissement
Bibliophiles will enjoy a visit to la Bibliothèque Nationale de France, Richelieu, 58 rue Richelieu (Métro: Bourse or Palais-Royal). Reading rooms are open Monday through Friday 9am-6pm and Saturday 9am-5pm. Special exhibitions are open: Tuesday through Saturday 10am-7pm.
The 2nd arrondissement has some of the loveliest architecture in all of Paris. Be sure to stop by the Place des Victoires, a round “town square” featuring a statue of King Louis XIVth and 17th century architecture. Visit the nearby Notre Dame des Victoires, a XVIIth century church located in the 2nd as well.
Even if you don’t see a performance there, be sure to at least stop by the famous Opéra-Comique.
Of course, you must take a stroll through Les Galeries, even if you don’t plan on doing much shopping there (the shops here tend to be extremely upscale). La Galerie Vivienne is the best preserved of the galleries and boasts 19th century style. Be sure to look down and taken in the intricate mosaic floor. Other Galeries worth a visit include the Passage Choiseul, the Passage des Panoramas, the Passages des Princes, and the Passage du Grand-Cerf.
Where to shop in the 2nd Arrondissement
The 2nd arrondissement is a great place for upscale boutique shopping (or browsing). Here are a few of the better-known stores in the area.
Anne Fontaine
Women’s Clothing and Accessories
+33 1 4041 0832
50 rue Etienne Marcel
Paris, France 75002
Blancpain
Swiss Watches (Men and Women)
+33 1 4292 0888
8 rue de la Paix
Paris, France 75002
Costume Nationale
Men and Women’s Clothing and Accessories
+33 1 4015 0436
5 rue Cambon
Paris, France 75001
Episode Galerie
Upscale Secondhand, Men’s and Women’s Clothing and Accessories
+33 1 42 61 14 65
12-16 rue Tiquetonne
Paris, France 75002
Kiliwatch
Upscale Secondhand, Men’s and Women’s Apparel and Shoes
+33 1 4221 1737
64 Rue Tiquetonne
Paris, France 75002
Piaget Boutique
Women’s Accessories and Jewelry
+33 1 5818 1415
16 Place Vendôme
Paris, France 75002
Where to Stay in the 2nd Arrondissement
This arrondissement is not known for having many hotels. Here are a few we recommend.
4-Star Hotels
Hotel Westminster
This lovely hotel Paris Opera is decorated with refined, antique furniture. All bedrooms are charming and have private marble bathrooms, air conditioning, satellite TV, minibar, and safes. Some rooms are on the small side, but all are 4-star quality. The hotel restaurant “Le Celadon” is renowned for its outstanding French cuisine. The staff is very friendly and efficient. We stayed here recently and found it a pleasure to return to our little piece of heaven after a full day of sightseeing.
Edouard VII Hotel
Guests staying at the Hotel Edouard VII will enjoy spacious and elegant surroundings as the hotel has recently undergone extensive refurbishment. Classically styled furniture and rich fabrics create a charming and luxurious ambiance. Spacious rooms and bathrooms with all modern amenities will make this Paris hotel opera one of your favorites.
This modest hotel is well located and offers a warm welcome. It offers 18 rooms, from single to triple occupancy, en-suite bathrooms, television and free WiFi. Prices begin at 50 euros per room.Where to eat in the 2nd Arrondissement
Check out our Paris Restaurant Guide by Arrondissement.
For other Paris Restaurant and Bistro Recommendations, see our Paris Eating and Drinking pages.
Comments