Eva’s apartment offers the experience of living in the heart of Paris like a Parisian, surrounded by beautiful views, church bells, cafes, markets, and transit. The apartment is on the top floor of a classic Paris building, with one set of windows facing the Parthenon and Notre Dame, and the other facing Sacre-Coeur. The stairs are a typical spiral set, ascending from a private courtyard to the 6th floor (7th if you count the ground floor).
Right outside from the building is a cafe, and just beyond that all the shops you would expect to find in every neighborhood including a large weekly outdoor market. The neighborhood was safe to walk around in, with places of worship on nearly every corner. Do you like church bells?Transit to the central arrs was a short walk away. This neighborhood will get you away from the packed tourist streets while keeping you close to the places you want to visit.
The apartment was cute and comfortable. The sitting areas were perfect for breakfast and lounging at the end of the day. The kitchen had everything I needed to prepare a few meals. I didn’t use the dishwasher or laundry machine so I can’t speak to those, but they were there. Washing machine might need some instruction, but I’m sure if you asked Eva she would be helpful and quick to respond. The bedroom had a dark curtain and was quiet enough for 5 comfortable night’s sleep. The bathroom fixtures all worked and there was ample hot water. Everything was well stocked including spices, towels, sheets and cleaning supplies, etc.
Paris is not a quiet city, but the way this apt is situated and the quality of the windows meant it was quiet at night. There is a lot of traffic horns at evening rush hour, but you probably won’t be in the apartment much between 5pm and 7pm, and there is very little traffic noise at other times. Top floor is my preference because you never have to worry about upstairs neighbors being loud.I was there in the spring with warm sunny days, and the breeze from the windows was great.
Communication with Eva was easy. I was able to check in and out without any hassle. I really like the Oberkampf neighborhood in general as it’s young and vibrant without being a “college town.” I’m a big walker, so stairs don’t bother me and I explored all the area on foot. There’s a great park (Buttes-Chaumont) just north of there that’s excellent for picnics and views if you’re doing an extended stay like I was. After 5 nights in this apt, I would return. I really felt like I was “living like a Parisian.”