Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a historic Parisian neighborhood, effortlessly blends a bohemian spirit with modern-day chic. This charming area, located in the 6th arrondissement, is a delightful mix of culture, history, and elegance, attracting visitors from all walks of life.
Getting Around Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Navigating this picturesque neighborhood is a breeze. Strolling on foot is the best way to soak in the atmosphere, but you can easily hail a taxi or ride-share if venturing further afield. The 6th arrondissement sits conveniently close to the heart of Paris, just a 15-minute walk from the iconic Louvre Museum.
The Métro system provides seamless connectivity, with Line 4 directly serving the Saint-Germain-des-Prés station. Nearby stops like Saint-Sulpice, Saint-Placide, and Odéon offer additional options. Other lines, like Line 10 (Mabillon) and Line 12 (Rue du Bac), further enhance the neighborhood’s accessibility.
Métro tickets are readily available at stations for €2.10 (approximately $2), allowing for transfers within 90 minutes. These tickets are also valid on buses, with several routes, including the 96, stopping at Saint-Germain-Odéon.
Immersed in History and Culture
Bordering the Latin Quarter and the landmark-rich 7th arrondissement (home to the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, and Musée Rodin), Saint-Germain-des-Prés unfolds around the former abbey of the same name. The Boulevard Saint-Germain, a fashionable main street, weaves through the neighborhood, offering a glimpse into its rich history.
This enchanting area boasts several landmarks, including the twin-towered Église Saint-Sulpice, famously featured in “The Da Vinci Code”. Another highlight is the Neo-Classical Odéon Théâtre de l’Europe, the oldest theater-monument in Europe still hosting performances in its original location.
A Stroll Through Parisian History
The true allure of Saint-Germain-des-Prés lies in its charming streets and gardens, once frequented by the city’s most celebrated flâneurs (strollers). Lose yourself in the shaded cobbled streets winding along the river Seine, meandering past antique shops and ornate brasseries.
Discover hidden squares and gardens adorned with lush greenery, eventually reaching the bouquinistes, renowned booksellers, along the Seine. Their stalls are a colorful spectacle, showcasing collages of old posters and antiquarian books.
Shopping for Every Taste
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a haven for shoppers with diverse tastes and budgets.
CityPharma is a unique department store-like pharmacy boasting over 500 brands, including exclusive Parisian labels often offered at discounted prices.
The neighborhood is dotted with a curated mix of designer shops, mid-range French labels, independent boutiques, and the grand department store, Le Bon Marché.
Boulevard Saint-Germain is a hub of luxury, featuring flagship stores like Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren, alongside renowned French brands like Isabel Marant and A.P.C.
Near the Café de Flore, Assouline, a luxurious bookstore, is a must-visit, even for browsing. Its ceiling-high shelves display an impressive collection of coffee table books.
The covered Marché Saint-Germain is a delightful experience, with its gorgeous stone arcades housing shops like Apple, Nespresso, Uniqlo, and Marks & Spencer, along with Yves Camdeborde’s L’Avant Comptoir du Marché, a popular restaurant.
Beyond the shops, you’ll find classic market vendors offering fresh flowers, fish, fruits, and vegetables, adding to the neighborhood’s charm.
A short walk towards Rue de Sèvres leads you to Le Bon Marché, the original grand magasin of Paris, now spanning two buildings. The ground floor of La Grande Épicerie, its gourmet food hall, is a treasure trove of culinary delights.
A Culinary Journey Through Time
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining experiences, from historic brasseries and bistros to celebrity chef-helmed restaurants and wine bars.
Start your culinary adventure at one of the iconic brasseries and cafés – Café de Flore, Brasserie Lipp, or Les Deux Magots.
For a more local experience, head to family-run Au Sauvignon or Freddy’s, a wine bar popular with the after-work crowd, serving shareable plates.
Cyril Lignac’s Le Bar des Prés is a beautifully designed bar located just off the main drag, offering a cozy setting to enjoy cocktails.
For a taste of natural wine and tapas, visit Augustin Marchand d’Vins.
Indulge in Champagne and elevated cocktails at the Belle Époque Bar Joséphine, nestled within the legendary Hotel Lutetia, the only Palace-rated hotel on the Right Bank.
The landmark La Rhumerie, a rum bar dating back to the 1930s, is an excellent choice for rum-based cocktails and punches.
Find Your Parisian Haven
While hotel chains are more prevalent in other arrondissements like the 8th, 9th, and 16th, Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers a unique selection of boutique accommodations.
Many hotels are located in old hôtels particuliers (mansions), tucked away on side streets, adding to the neighborhood’s charm.
From budget-friendly three- and four-star hotels to luxurious five-star properties, you’ll find a variety of options.
Charming and airy accommodations like Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain & Spa and the Relais & Château property Relais Christine, featuring a Guerlain Spa, offer a comfortable and indulgent stay.
For Every Traveler
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a welcoming destination for all types of travelers, from solo adventurers and families to couples and backpackers.
Its pedestrian-friendly streets and proximity to major attractions make it an ideal choice.
While some classic cafés and brasseries can be pricier, the neighborhood also caters to students, offering happy hour deals and specials for budget-conscious travelers.
The Luxembourg Gardens, with their ample space for children to play, are a popular destination for families.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés has a peaceful atmosphere compared to other bar-heavy neighborhoods, with quieter evenings, ensuring a good night’s sleep.
The area’s boho heritage contributes to its cleanliness and safety.
While the streets can be busy on weekends, the crowds are generally manageable, unlike the bustling crowds found in the Marais or near the Eiffel Tower.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a vibrant and historic neighborhood where you can immerse yourself in the heart of Paris. With its charming streets, cultural landmarks, and diverse dining options, it offers a memorable and enriching experience for every traveler.
