Paris. The name itself conjures images of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and romantic strolls along the Seine. But beyond the major tourist sites, Paris’s diverse neighborhoods each have their own character and appeal. Welcome to “Beyond the Postcard,” a blog series exploring the distinct qualities of Paris’s lesser-known districts.

Our first stop? The 9th arrondissement, specifically the district known as Nouvelle Athènes (New Athens). Located on the Right Bank, this area offers a different perspective on Paris—one rooted in artistic and literary history, with elegant architecture and a quieter, more residential atmosphere.

“Nouvelle Athènes attracts buyers who want authentic Parisian character without the tourist crowds,” says Jennifer Jomard, a property agent with Paris Property Group. “It’s become increasingly popular with families and professionals who value the neighborhood’s cultural heritage and village-like feel.”

A Walk Through History and Artistic Legacy

Nouvelle Athènes earned its name in the 19th century due to its neoclassical architecture, inspired by ancient Greece, and its status as a hub for artists, writers, and musicians. Victor Hugo, Frédéric Chopin, George Sand, and Eugène Delacroix all lived in this neighborhood at various times. Their presence contributed to the area’s creative reputation, which influences its character to this day.

As you walk through its tree-lined streets, you’ll encounter grand hôtels particuliers (private mansions) and elegant apartment buildings, many with classical facades and ornate balconies. The architecture here stands in contrast to the busier boulevards just a few blocks away.

Local Points of Interest

Nouvelle Athènes has several notable sites worth visiting:

Musée de la Vie Romantique (reopening February, 2026): Housed in the former home of painter Ary Scheffer, this small museum focuses on the Romantic era. It features memorabilia of George Sand and Frédéric Chopin, and has a garden café that provides a quiet retreat.

Rue des Martyrs: While technically just bordering Nouvelle Athènes, this market street is worth exploring. You’ll find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and pastries from independent boulangeries and specialty food shops. It offers a good look at everyday Parisian shopping habits.

Théâtre Saint-Georges: A historic theatre that hosts various performances, offering an alternative to the city’s larger, more famous venues.

Cafés & Boutiques: The side streets contain independent cafés and boutiques offering fashion, homeware, and gifts.

Property Styles: Haussmannian Architecture

For those interested in the real estate of Nouvelle Athènes, the dominant style is Haussmannian architecture—stone facades, ironwork balconies, and apartments with high ceilings, decorative moldings, and herringbone parquet floors. These apartments often feature multiple fireplaces and spacious reception rooms.

“The Haussmannian apartments here are particularly well-preserved,” notes Jomard. “Buyers appreciate the original features—the moldings, the parquet floors, the fireplaces. Many buildings have been carefully maintained, so you’re getting historic character without necessarily sacrificing modern comfort.”  

Chic rue D’Aumale, a small, quiet street with beautiful buildings epitomizes the architectural charm of this neighborhood and therefore, has very little turnover.

You’ll also find some earlier 19th-century buildings with more intimate layouts, and occasionally renovated artist’s studios. Modern lofts are less common here, with the appeal lying primarily in the historic architecture.

Living in Nouvelle Athènes

Life in Nouvelle Athènes tends to revolve around local routines: morning visits to the boulangerie, browsing antique shops, lunches at neighborhood bistros, exploring independent bookstores, and evenings at local wine bars or theatres. The area provides access to cultural activities while maintaining a residential, relatively low-key atmosphere. For dining, Jomard recommends Le Bon Georges, Chez Delphine, and Bleubao—all local favorites where reservations are advised.

According to Jomard, this balance is what sets the neighborhood apart. “My clients often tell me they feel like they’ve discovered a secret part of Paris,” she explains. “You have excellent transport connections to the rest of the city, but the streets here remain peaceful. It’s residential without being isolated.”

Nouvelle Athènes offers an experience of Paris that’s less touristy and more historically grounded. It’s a neighborhood with a strong artistic heritage that has retained much of its architectural character. For those looking to explore Paris beyond its most famous landmarks, this district provides an interesting alternative.

Contact Paris Property Group to learn more about buying or selling property in Paris.