The Marais & Les Halles

1er, 3e & 4e Arrondissements. The Marais is one of those rare Parisian neighborhoods that combines excellent museums, boutiques, dining, and nightlife in a postcard-perfect historic setting. It's also home to the city's largest Jewish and gay communities. This is the place to be, whether it is night or day. The mixed cultures provide a great diversity of food (great falafel to go), nightclubs, art galleries, and cafes to sit in for hours. There is a young feeling in the streets but it mixes well with the history of the neighborhood. Taking to the wider streets leads you to the most popular contemporary, Centre Pompidou, which is in the western direction. And, if you want to shop (because sometimes you can't resist), this is the best area to dig through a pile of vintage clothing.