Rue Charlot, rue de Poitou and rue de Bretagne are becoming more and more popular in le Marais due partly to the renovation of numerous historical buildings such as the Hôtel de Retz, its art galleries and showrooms, and the 17th century Hôtel de Sauroy, built by Mr. Charlot himself. He was, in the 1650’s, what we would now call a real estate agent and architect.

Some people say rue Charlot is the chicest street in le Marais. There are many stylish streets in this neighborhood, but rue Charlot does have a great mix of shopping, good restaurants, art galleries and many historic places. Here’s a tour of this popular street and area.

Starting at the southern end, begin with a visit to the Picasso Museum, just a short walk down rue du Perche. If you enjoy classical music, take a seat at the Armenian Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque art with its wonderful paintings and stained-glass windows. You can listen to terrific classical concerts every weekend for a mere 10€.

Further up the street, find out everything about Marie Antoinette’s style at Le Boudoir et Sa Philosophie, number 18, a trip back to the 18th century. You’ll also want to visit the creative frame maker Eugénie Seigneur, next door.

Across the street at number 27, don’t miss Ander’s Hus Scandinavian gallery…be sure to wander downstairs to uncover the hidden treasures. Near rue de Bretagne, make a stop at “A chacun son image” where photographer Fabien Breuvart has opened his old style photo studio. He takes romantic portraits that make the perfect Paris souvenir.

Though rue Charlot is probably the most up and coming street in the neighborhood, you’ll want to vist all the nearby streets, starting with the main one, rue de Bretagne. At number 55, you’ll discover one of the best restaurants in the north Marais, « Les chineurs » – which means antiques hunters – serving upscale gastronomy at brasserie prices. Back on rue Charlot, stop at number 53, the remarkable Gallery Anne Vignial, specialising in 20th century arts and crafts.

You’ll also want to stroll along rue de Poitou…and you may even choose to stay at the Hotel du Petit Moulin, 29/32 rue de Poitou, designed by Christian Lacroix. On rue Debeyleme, get some fresh organic food at Bio Moi, or dine at Le Pamphlet, a famous gastronomic restaurant recommended worldwide, with meals for less than 35€.

Next to Innamoratti a great Italian restaurant, turn right on rue du Forez, then rue de Picardie where you’ll find many small design shops. Try Les Don Juan, another great option for lunch.

Visit Kakeboton, Les Comptoirs de Carthage, Egoismes, Jenny du Marais, 8 rue Dupetit-Thouars and the many shops around the rue Dupetit Thouars. End your trip to rue Charlot at Amisphere – you can’t miss its large red window, and you’ll appreciate its friendly staff, good French dishes and great value, starting at 9 euros for a “plat du jour”.

After all that shopping and a great meal, you’ll enjoy a rest on the grass of Temple square, just facing the local city hall.

You can spend hours visiting the tiny, creative shops that are such a big part of the imaginative atmosphere of le Marais – here we've listed the ones we recommend. If you discover any great places we haven’t included, write to us and we'll report on it as well!

Discover more pictures and check local maps on www.parismarais.com/rue-charlot.htm