24 hours around Les Halles: a walking tour of the neighbourhood

Staying at the Relais des Halles also means discovering Paris on foot. The neighbourhood is home to much of what gives the capital its charm: historic streets, major museums, lively cafés and hidden gems. In just one day, you can explore several different sides of Paris without straying far from the hotel.

Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of the surrounding area.

Morning: Paris comes to life around Les Halles

The day can begin at a leisurely pace in the streets surrounding the hotel. The neighbourhood still retains the atmosphere of its old shopping streets, with small boutiques, cafés and historic façades.

A short walk takes you to the Church of Saint-Eustache, one of the most impressive buildings in central Paris. Right next door, the Nelson Mandela Garden offers an open space in the heart of the Les Halles district.

The Forum des Halles is also nearby. This venue, very popular with Parisians, brings together shops, restaurants and access to one of the city’s largest transport hubs.

Late morning: off to the Louvre

From the hotel, the Louvre is within easy walking distance. The walk takes you through the streets of the 1st arrondissement before reaching the museum’s famous courtyard and the glass pyramid.

Even a short visit allows you to appreciate the atmosphere and architecture. The Tuileries Gardens, situated just behind the museum, then offer a pleasant break to take a stroll or simply enjoy the surroundings.

Afternoon: strolling through the streets of central Paris

On the way back towards Les Halles, there are several detours well worth taking. The nearby Montorgueil district is known for its lively streets, its food shops and its quintessentially Parisian atmosphere.

It’s an ideal spot to pop into a patisserie, explore a delicatessen or have lunch on a terrace.

Just a few minutes away, the Centre Pompidou also catches the eye with its instantly recognisable architecture and its exhibitions of modern and contemporary art.

End of the day: the Seine and the quays

In the late afternoon, your stroll can continue towards the Seine. The quays are easily accessible from the Les Halles district.

Walking along the river allows you to discover some of Paris’s most iconic sights: historic bridges, old façades and sweeping views of the city.

It is often at this time of day that the atmosphere becomes at its most pleasant, when the late-afternoon light reflects off the buildings and the water.

Evening: dinner around Les Halles

The neighbourhood offers plenty of options for dinner. Traditional restaurants, brasseries, bistros and more contemporary eateries are all just a few minutes’ walk from the hotel.

After dinner, a final stroll through the bustling streets of central Paris allows you to soak up the neighbourhood’s unique atmosphere before making your way back to the hotel at your leisure.

A day in the heart of Paris

Le Relais des Halles is ideally situated for exploring Paris on foot. In a single day, you can explore several iconic neighbourhoods, visit major cultural attractions and soak up the special atmosphere of the historic centre.

To extend your exploration, our team is on hand to recommend other itineraries or places to discover during your stay.