17th arrondissement of Paris: What to see, do, and eat

One of the more eclectic districts in Paris, the 17th arrondissement starts at the Arc de Triomphe and continues to edge of the city till it reaches the Peripherique (a six-lane highway that surrounds Paris.)

Known for its quiet streets and luxury apartments, it is nonetheless home to some excellent dining and nightlife.

The infamous Metro line 13, in which passengers coming from outside the Paris are packed like sardines, also runs through the 17th. I would highly recommend avoiding taking line 13 during rush hour if you can.

What to see: Top Attractions

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most symbolic buildings in France. With the unknown soldier buried at its base, along with the eternal flame this is a monument to the France’s past.

It was commissioned by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1806, but his defeat by the British meant that he never saw it finished. It was completed in 1836, and become a rallying point for both French and foreign armies.

Famous victory marches around or under the Arc de Triomphe include:

• the Germans in 1871 – Franco-Prussian war
• the French in 1919 – WWI
• the Germans in 1940 – the invasion of France at start of WWII
• French and Allied Forces in 1944-45 – end of WWII

Nowadays, there are military marches every 14 Juillet (Bastille Day) and 11 November (Armistice day) where the President of France and other dignatories gather to pay tribute to those who have fought for the country’s freedoms.

You can climb up to the top of the Arc de Triomphe and bow to the tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame. You can buy your tickets to the Arc de Triomphe here.

Batignolles

North of the 17th is the quirky village of Batignolles, which was annexed into Paris by Napoleon III in 1860. It still maintains a village feel and is a wonderful place to explore. Wander around this bobo-chic quartier, with your camera at the ready for that quintessential Paris.

Shopping

In terms of shopping in Paris, much of the 17th is within walking distance to the Champs Elysées in the 8th arrondissement which is where many top boutiques and shops are located.

However, there are also a number of shops at one end of the 17th near Porte Maillot inside Les Boutiques Du Palais.

The shops are inside a mall attached to the Palais des Congrès center, and there is everything from clothing boutiques to household goods and books.

Where to eat: Restaurants, Brasseries, and Bistros

The 17th arrondissement has no shortage of restaurants, with quite a variety. Some local favorites are:

• Coretta – elegant French plates at 151 Bis Rue Cardinet, 75017 Paris
• Le bistro 21 – French bistro at 21 Bd Pereire, 75017 Paris
• La Compagnie – modern take on a classic at 123 Av. de Wagram, 75017 Paris

You can find more ideas and ways of spending an evening in Paris here.

Bars and Nightlife

There are a lot of small bars and pubs in this area, catering to locals rather than many tourists. Some popular favorites are:

• L’Ambre Bar – elegant New York-style bar 29 Rue Brunel, 75017 Paris
• La Buvette des Batignolles – neighborhood bar at 40 Rue des Dames, 75017 Paris
• Les p’tits potes – wine bar at 33 Rue des Dames, 75017 Paris

You can find more bars and nightlife options around Paris here.

Where to stay: Hotels and other accommodation

The discreet 17th arrondissement doesn’t have as many bars and nightclubs as the east end of Paris or the Left Bank, but it if you are looking for calm and quiet, this is a great area to base yourself in. Some recommended hotels in the area are:

• €€€ – Hôtel Elysées Flaubert
• €€€€ – Hotel Flanelles Paris
• €€€€€ – Renaissance Paris Arc de Triomphe Hotel

You can find more accommodation options for the 17th arrondissement here.