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14 Things to Do in the 9th Arrondissement of Paris

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Discover the essence of Paris in the 9th arrondissement, a district that blends timeless elegance with vibrant local culture. From iconic landmarks like the Palais Garnier and Galeries Lafayette to charming neighborhoods and unique attractions, the 9th offers an immersive Parisian experience. Whether you’re captivated by historic architecture, passionate about the arts, or simply here to enjoy the city’s culinary delights, this guide reveals 14 must-visit spots that showcase the district’s rich character and charm. Dive in to explore the monuments, museums, bustling streets, and hidden gems that make the 9th arrondissement unforgettable.

Monuments and Landmarks

1. Palais Garnier Opera House

A stunning example of Second Empire architecture, known for its grand staircase and Chagall-painted ceiling.
Palais Garnier Opera House

📍8 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris

The Palais Garnier Opera House in Paris is a breathtaking example of Second Empire architecture and an icon of French culture. Designed by Charles Garnier and completed in 1875, the opera house boasts a richly adorned façade, grand marble staircase, and intricate mosaics, all hallmarks of 19th-century opulence. 

Visitors are drawn to its lavish interiors, including the gilded Grand Foyer with vaulted ceilings and detailed chandeliers. A true highlight is the Chagall-painted ceiling in the main auditorium, a colorful masterpiece set above the grand chandelier, enhancing the theater’s enchanting atmosphere. Located in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, the Palais Garnier remains a popular destination for those looking to experience Parisian elegance and historical grandeur.

2. Galeries Lafayette Haussmann

A luxury department store famed for its Art Nouveau glass dome and panoramic rooftop views.
Galeries Lafayette Haussmann

📍40 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris

The Galeries Lafayette Haussmann is one of Paris’s premier department stores, renowned for its stunning Art Nouveau dome and luxurious shopping experience. Founded in 1894, it quickly became a symbol of Parisian style and innovation. The store’s central atrium, crowned by an exquisite glass and steel dome, bathes the space in natural light, creating a unique shopping atmosphere. 
Visitors can explore ten floors filled with high-end fashion, beauty products, gourmet foods, and home decor. The rooftop terrace offers one of the best panoramic views of Paris, from the Eiffel Tower to Montmartre. Situated on Boulevard Haussmann, the Galeries Lafayette combines luxury shopping with architectural beauty, making it a must-see in the 9th arrondissement.

3. Printemps Haussmann

Iconic shopping destination with a beautiful stained-glass dome and luxury fashion collections.
Printemps Haussmann

📍64 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris

Printemps Haussmann is a historic department store in Paris, celebrated for its sophisticated fashion collections and remarkable architecture. Founded in 1865, Printemps is known for its stunning stained-glass dome and elegant interiors, which embody the grandeur of the Belle Époque. 

Spanning several buildings, the store offers high-end fashion, beauty, and home goods across multiple levels, with each floor showcasing premium brands and exclusive collections. Its rooftop terrace provides a breathtaking view of the Paris skyline, including landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Sacré-Cœur. Located on Boulevard Haussmann, Printemps combines the luxury shopping experience with a taste of historic Paris, making it a prominent attraction in the 9th arrondissement.

4. Church of La Trinité

A magnificent 19th-century church with an eclectic architectural style and intricate frescoes.
Church of La Trinité

📍Place d’Estienne d’Orves, 75009 Paris

The Church of La Trinité is a striking example of 19th-century Parisian architecture, located in the bustling 9th arrondissement. Designed by architect Théodore Ballu and completed in 1867, the church combines elements of Renaissance and Classical styles with intricate detailing. Its grand façade features a tall clock tower and richly carved sculptures, while the interior impresses with high vaulted ceilings, marble columns, and delicate frescoes. 
Known for its beautiful organ, which was once played by composer Camille Saint-Saëns, La Trinité also hosts regular classical music concerts. The church overlooks the charming Place d’Estienne d’Orves, offering a serene setting for both locals and visitors to appreciate its artistic and architectural beauty in central Paris.

Cultural and Entertainment

5. Grévin Wax Museum

Historic wax museum featuring lifelike figures of celebrities and historic icons in elaborate settings.
Grévin Wax Museum

📍10 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009 Paris

The Grévin Wax Museum is a unique Parisian attraction that brings history and celebrity to life through lifelike wax figures. Established in 1882, it’s one of the oldest wax museums in Europe and features over 200 characters from French history, pop culture, and global fame. Visitors can walk through elaborately themed rooms, such as the Hall of Mirrors, which creates a dazzling visual effect with mirrors and lights, or the ornate Belle Époque theater. 

Highlights include wax figures of French icons like Édith Piaf, historical figures like Napoleon, and international stars. Located on Boulevard Montmartre, Grévin provides an immersive experience that blends artistic craftsmanship with entertainment, making it an engaging destination for all ages.

6. Musée de la Vie Romantique

A quaint museum celebrating Romanticism, with exhibits dedicated to George Sand and a peaceful garden café.
Musée de la Vie Romantique

📍16 Rue Chaptal, 75009 Paris

The Musée de la Vie Romantique is a charming museum nestled in a 19th-century mansion in Paris’s 9th arrondissement. Dedicated to the Romantic era, the museum showcases art, literature, and personal items connected to notable figures like writer George Sand and painter Ary Scheffer, who once lived here. 

Visitors can explore intimate rooms filled with portraits, sculptures, letters, and keepsakes that capture the spirit of the Romantic movement. Outside, a tranquil garden offers a peaceful escape, complete with a small tea room where guests can enjoy refreshments among rose bushes and greenery. Situated on Rue Chaptal, the Musée de la Vie Romantique offers a unique glimpse into 19th-century artistic life and Parisian culture.

7. Gustave Moreau Museum

Former atelier of the Symbolist painter Gustave Moreau, displaying his works in a unique, spiral-staircase setting.
Gustave Moreau Museum

📍14 Rue de La Rochefoucauld, 75009 Paris

The Gustave Moreau Museum is a captivating museum and former home of the Symbolist painter Gustave Moreau, located in Paris’s 9th arrondissement. This unique space preserves Moreau’s personal studio and showcases over a thousand of his works, including paintings, drawings, and sketches. The museum’s grand spiral staircase and richly decorated rooms create an intimate, artistic atmosphere, reflecting Moreau’s passion and creativity. 

Highlights include masterpieces like Oedipus and the Sphinx, displayed alongside studies and unfinished works that reveal his process. Visitors can explore several floors filled with romantic and mystical themes that define the Symbolist movement. Situated on Rue de La Rochefoucauld, the Gustave Moreau Museum is a hidden gem for art enthusiasts.

8. Fragonard Perfume Museum

Museum dedicated to the art of perfumery, offering interactive exhibits and fragrance workshops.
Fragonard Perfume Museum

📍9 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris

The Fragonard Perfume Museum in Paris offers a fascinating look into the art and history of perfumery. Located near the Palais Garnier, this museum was created by the famous Fragonard perfume house and showcases a vast collection of antique perfume bottles, distillation instruments, and historic artifacts tracing the evolution of fragrance. 

Visitors can explore exhibits that reveal the secrets of perfume-making, from ingredient sourcing to blending techniques, all within a beautifully preserved 19th-century building. Highlights include workshops where guests can create their own signature scents. The museum provides a sensory experience that captures the heritage and craftsmanship behind French perfumery, making it a unique destination for those interested in the finer details of this timeless art.

9. Théâtre Mogador

Renowned theater hosting popular musicals and international productions in an elegant Art Deco space.
Théâtre Mogador

📍25 Rue de Mogador, 75009 Paris

The Théâtre Mogador is a historic theater in Paris, renowned for its grand Art Deco architecture and vibrant performing arts scene. Opened in 1919, this elegant venue has hosted numerous famous productions, from classic operettas to modern musicals, becoming a beloved cultural hub in the city. With plush seating, intricate detailing, and excellent acoustics, the theater creates an immersive experience for audiences. 

Located in the 9th arrondissement near major landmarks like the Palais Garnier, Théâtre Mogador is known for staging popular international shows, including many Broadway favorites adapted for French audiences. Its rich history and impressive design make it an ideal destination for theater lovers looking to experience world-class performances in a stunning Parisian setting.

Streets and Squares

10. Rue des Martyrs

Bustling street lined with artisan shops, bakeries, and specialty food stores, perfect for a gourmet stroll.
Rue des Martyrs

📍Rue des Martyrs, 75009 Paris

Rue des Martyrs is a lively, historic street that stretches through Paris’s 9th arrondissement, known for its unique mix of artisan shops, cafes, and specialty food stores. This charming street offers a quintessential Parisian experience, lined with bakeries, cheese shops, chocolatiers, and small boutiques that reflect the local spirit. 

Popular with both locals and visitors, Rue des Martyrs is a great spot to sample French delicacies, pick up fresh produce, or simply enjoy people-watching from a café terrace. The street’s inviting atmosphere and variety of offerings capture the essence of traditional Paris, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll filled with gourmet treats and local discoveries.

11. New Athens District (La Nouvelle Athènes)

Charming neighborhood with neoclassical architecture, historically home to Romantic artists and writers.
New Athens District (La Nouvelle Athènes)

📍Around Rue Blanche and Rue de Douai, 75009 Paris

The New Athens District (La Nouvelle Athènes) is a picturesque area in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, celebrated for its neoclassical architecture and artistic heritage. Developed in the early 19th century, this neighborhood became a hub for Romantic artists, writers, and musicians, who were drawn to its elegant townhouses and creative atmosphere. 

Strolling through streets like Rue Blanche and Rue de La Rochefoucauld, visitors can admire beautifully preserved façades, wrought-iron balconies, and lush courtyards. Key sites include the Musée de la Vie Romantique and the former homes of artists like Eugène Delacroix. The New Athens District offers a peaceful escape, with a rich cultural legacy that makes it a must-see for those interested in Paris’s artistic history.

12. Covered Passages: Panoramas, Jouffroy, and Verdeau

Beautiful 19th-century covered arcades with antique shops, bookstores, and quaint cafés.
Covered Passages: Panoramas

📍11 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009 Paris (Passage des Panoramas)
📍10-12 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009 Paris (Passage Jouffroy)
📍6 Rue de la Grange Batelière, 75009 Paris (Passage Verdeau)

The Covered Passages of Panoramas, Jouffroy, and Verdeau are hidden gems in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, offering a charming glimpse into the city’s 19th-century shopping culture. These historic arcades, with their glass roofs and intricate ironwork, create an inviting, vintage atmosphere where visitors can stroll through elegant walkways sheltered from the weather. 

Passage des Panoramas is the oldest, known for its quaint bistros, stamp collectors, and antique shops. It leads directly to Passage Jouffroy, which houses unique bookstores, quirky shops, and the entrance to the Grévin Wax Museum. Just next door, Passage Verdeau continues the experience with more antique stores, art galleries, and vintage boutiques. Together, these passages capture the essence of old Paris, blending nostalgia with a cozy shopping experience. Perfect for leisurely exploration, they provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling boulevards outside.

13. Pigalle – SoPi District

A lively neighborhood blending historic charm with modern nightlife, known for its stylish cocktail bars, vintage boutiques, and artistic vibe.
Pigalle - SoPi District

📍Around Rue Frochot and Rue Jean-Baptiste Pigalle, 75009 Paris

The Pigalle – SoPi District (South Pigalle) is a dynamic area in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, blending historical character with a fresh, creative vibe. Known for its bustling bars, cafes, and shops, SoPi has evolved from its cabaret past into a hub of trendy nightlife and culture. The district is filled with stylish cocktail bars, like Dirty Dick and Lulu White, known for their inventive drinks and warm atmospheres, as well as lively cafes and restaurants. During the day, visitors can explore SoPi’s vintage boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. With its vibrant energy, the Pigalle – SoPi District captures the bohemian spirit of Paris, making it a popular spot for locals and travelers alike.

Cafés and Gastronomy

14. Mamiche Bakery

Local favorite for artisanal breads and pastries, known for its delicious, freshly baked goods.
Mamiche Bakery

📍45 Rue Condorcet, 75009 Paris

Mamiche Bakery is a beloved artisanal bakery in Paris’s 9th arrondissement, known for its fresh, handmade breads, pastries, and sweet treats. Popular with locals and visitors alike, Mamiche specializes in high-quality baked goods with a rustic touch, from flaky croissants and indulgent cookies to their famous sourdough loaves. The bakery’s friendly atmosphere and dedication to traditional methods have made it a neighborhood favorite. Located on Rue Condorcet, Mamiche draws daily crowds eager to enjoy the warmth and authenticity of a true Parisian boulangerie, making it an ideal stop for a delicious breakfast or afternoon treat.

How to get to the 9th Arrondissement of Paris?

New Athens District (La Nouvelle Athènes)

The 9th arrondissement is centrally located in Paris and easily accessible by several public transportation options:

Metro: The area is well-served by multiple metro lines. Key stations include:

    • Opéra (Lines 3, 7, 8) near the Palais Garnier and department stores.
    • Saint-Lazare (Lines 3, 12, 13, 14) near Printemps Haussmann.
    • Chausée d’Antin – La Fayette (Lines 7, 9) for Galeries Lafayette.
    • Pigalle (Lines 2, 12) for the SoPi district.
    • Notre-Dame-de-Lorette (Line 12) for the New Athens District and Rue des Martyrs.

RER: The Auber station (RER A line) connects with the western and eastern suburbs and is near Opéra.

Bus: Several bus lines run through the arrondissement, including 26, 43, and 68, providing convenient options for shorter trips within the area.

Walking: The 9th arrondissement is close to other central districts like the 8th and 2nd, making it accessible on foot from nearby attractions.

Taxi or Rideshare: Taxis and services like Uber are also available for direct access from anywhere in Paris.

Where to stay in the 9th Arrondissement of Paris?

Rue des Martyrs

For an unforgettable stay in the heart of Paris, the 9th arrondissement offers a fantastic selection of accommodations to suit every style and need. From charming boutique stays to contemporary options, explore all the best choices by clicking the button below!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main attractions in the 9th arrondissement?

The 9th arrondissement is home to iconic sites like the Palais Garnier, Galeries Lafayette, Printemps Haussmann, and cultural treasures like the Musée de la Vie Romantique and the Gustave Moreau Museum. The lively Rue des Martyrs and the historic covered passages also draw many visitors.

The 9th arrondissement combines elegant, historic Paris with a trendy, youthful vibe. Visitors will find beautiful 19th-century architecture, upscale shopping, theaters, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, particularly in the South Pigalle (SoPi) area.

Yes, the 9th arrondissement is generally safe for tourists. Like any urban area, it’s advisable to stay aware of your belongings in crowded places, but it’s a popular and safe district for both locals and visitors.

Yes, the 9th is centrally located, making it easy to walk to nearby areas like the 8th arrondissement (Champs-Élysées and Madeleine), the 2nd arrondissement, and Montmartre in the 18th arrondissement.

Shopping here is fantastic, especially with department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Printemps offering luxury brands, plus the boutiques along Rue des Martyrs and vintage shops in SoPi for unique finds.

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