As popular a destination as Paris is, some of its arrondissements (or neighborhoods in English) are better known than others. The 1st and 8th offer imperial majesty, the 3rd and 4th exude effortless chic, and the 10th boasts trendy streets. However, the 15th arrondissement, the southernmost expanse of the Left Bank, often goes unnoticed. Despite its proximity to iconic attractions like the Eiffel Tower, it remains a hidden gem with charming streets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and unique markets.
The recent arrival of several charming boutique hotels, like the two Orso properties, has started to change this perception. “The 15th arrondissement is actually where 10 percent of Parisians live,” explains Louis Solanet, founder of Orso Hotels. “It’s an area that is authentic and very Parisian.” This authenticity attracts travelers seeking a tranquil stay without compromising on design and comfort.
Beyond the hotels, the 15th arrondissement offers a plethora of experiences for those seeking a more authentic Parisian experience. It is home to under-the-radar museums, urban farms, and even a replica of the Statue of Liberty. During the 2024 Olympic Games, the 15th arrondissement will be bustling with events and activities, including the District Olympics, where residents can represent their arrondissements in various sports.
Where to Stay
Orso Hotels, with its two properties, offers stylish and intimate accommodations in the 15th arrondissement. The first, Orso, is a cool 45-room refuge with stylish rooms, larger suites with Eiffel Tower views, and a basement-level bar serving breakfast, cocktails, and Italian bites. The rooftop lounge, Tuco, offers a charming Italian Riviera-inspired escape with cocktails, natural wines, and cheese plates.
Orso’s second property, , is a Nordic-inspired hideaway housed in a 17th-century building. Designed by Gesa Hansen, the hotel features a whimsical blend of textures with brick walls, leather banquettes, playful carpeting, and mid-century wood chairs. Families can enjoy the family room with two balconies and a sofa bed. The hotel also boasts a charming interior courtyard where guests can enjoy breakfast.
Where to Eat and Drink
The 15th arrondissement offers a diverse culinary scene, ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual bistros.
For a glamorous dining experience, head to , Cyril Lignac’s Italian-inspired restaurant. The menu features Italian delicacies, from veal Milanese to Neapolitan pizza.
For a Michelin-starred experience, visit Japanese chef Hideki Nishi’s . Nishi combines French and Japanese techniques to create a precise and artistic menu with dishes like grilled A5 Wagyu with caviar and grilled tuna belly with pickled vegetables.
For a more casual setting, try , where chef Jérôme Bonnet serves rustic and robust dishes like roasted partridge with stuffed cabbage.
For a fuss-free brunch, pop into , an Australian-style cafe offering meticulously prepared coffee, salads, and eggs benedict sandwiches.
What to Do
The 15th arrondissement offers a diverse range of activities for visitors.
Culture vultures should visit , the home and studio of artist Antoine Bourdelle, a student of Rodin. The space is free to enter and features antiques, drawings, and sculptures.
On Île aux Cygnes, an artificial island on the Seine, you’ll find a replica of the Statue of Liberty, a gift from Americans to the French in 1889.
The 15th is also known for its unique craft stores, such as , which creates and sells wooden puzzles. The flagship location features an impressive selection of puzzles for all ages.
For those interested in stained glass, visit , a workshop that designs, makes, and restores stained glass pieces.
The 15th arrondissement is also home to the world’s largest urban farm, located atop the . The farm offers tours, workshops, and a restaurant with stunning views over Paris.
The Seine Riverfront offers a variety of activities, including the riverside and its sister project , a sports and entertainment complex. The complex features a pool barge and various other activities.
To celebrate the Olympics, the 15th arrondissement will host several events, including a new exhibit called , which celebrates newer Olympic sports.
Parc des Expositions near Porte de Versailles will be a major competition site for several Olympic and Paralympic disciplines, including volleyball, weight lifting, and table tennis. A fan zone will be located in front of the city hall, offering broadcasts of matches, play areas, and community events.
After the Games, in 2025, Bras de Grenelle, a section of the Seine in the 15th, will open as a public swimming space, serving as a lasting memento of Paris’s Olympic legacy.
The 15th arrondissement offers a unique and authentic Parisian experience, waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil stay, a culinary adventure, or a cultural exploration, this hidden gem has something for everyone.
