Embark on a Parisian adventure in the charming and iconic neighborhood of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Located in the 6th arrondissement, this neighborhood seamlessly blends history, culture, and modern flair, offering a unique experience for every type of traveler.
Getting Around
Navigating the streets of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a breeze. Embrace the Parisian lifestyle and explore on foot, soaking in the ambiance of this picturesque neighborhood. For those venturing further afield, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
The neighborhood is conveniently connected to the city’s extensive metro network, with multiple lines passing through its heart. The Line 4 metro offers direct access to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés station, while other nearby stops include Saint-Sulpice, Saint-Placide, and Odéon. The Line 10 connects to Mabillon, and the Line 12 takes you to Rue du Bac. Purchase your metro tickets (€2.10, or around $2, for a single journey with transfers within 90 minutes) at the stations, which are the same tickets used for buses. Several buses also stop at Saint Germain-Odéon, including the 96.
A Journey Through History and Style
Nestled between the vibrant Latin Quarter and the iconic 7th arrondissement, home to the Eiffel Tower and renowned museums, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a neighborhood steeped in history and cultural significance. This area is named after the ancient Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Boulevard Saint-Germain, a bustling artery lined with elegant boutiques and charming cafés, serves as its main thoroughfare.
Within this neighborhood lie a few notable landmarks, including the majestic Église Saint-Sulpice, with its distinctive twin towers, made famous by its appearance in “The Da Vinci Code.” The Odéon Théâtre de l’Europe, with its Neoclassical design, boasts the distinction of being Europe’s oldest surviving theatre-monument, still hosting performances in its original space.
A Stroll Through Time: Exploring the Neighborhood’s Soul
Step back in time and wander the same streets and gardens that once captivated the city’s most renowned “flâneurs” – leisurely strollers. The cobbled streets, shaded by verdant trees, invite you to lose yourself in the neighborhood’s captivating charm. As you amble along, discover hidden squares and gardens, and browse through antique shops and ornate brasseries. At the banks of the Seine, the iconic “bouquinistes” – booksellers – line the riverbanks, displaying their treasures of old posters and antiquarian books.
A Shopping Paradise
Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a haven for shoppers, offering an eclectic mix of boutiques, department stores, and unique shops catering to every taste and budget.
CityPharma, a Parisian institution, is like a department store dedicated to pharmacy goods, boasting over 500 brands, including smaller, Parisian-exclusive labels, often at discounted prices. The neighborhood is a tapestry of designer shops, mid-range French labels, independent boutiques, and the grand dame of department stores, Le Bon Marché.
Along the Boulevard Saint-Germain, you’ll encounter luxury giants like Louis Vuitton and Ralph Lauren, whose Parisian flagship houses the chic Ralph’s restaurant, with its stylish blue-and-white pillows and sophisticated leather banquettes. French brands like Isabel Marant and A.P.C. add to the neighborhood’s trendy appeal.
Near the iconic Café de Flore, the luxurious bookstore Assouline invites you to browse its ceiling-high shelves, showcasing a collection of coffee table books that are sure to inspire.
The covered Marché Saint-Germain, with its beautiful stone arcades, offers a mix of modern shops like Apple, Nespresso, Uniqlo, and Marks & Spencer, as well as one of the neighborhood’s favorite restaurants, Yves Camdeborde’s L’Avant Comptoir du Marché. Classic market vendors, including florists, fishmongers, and fruit and vegetable stalls, bring a traditional touch.
Continue towards Rue de Sèvres to reach Le Bon Marché, Paris’ original grand magasin, now spanning two buildings. La Grande Épicerie, located on the ground floor, is a culinary haven where you can find gourmet delights.
A Culinary Journey: Indulge Your Senses
The culinary scene in Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a vibrant blend of Parisian classics and modern gastronomic experiences. Historic brasseries and bistros stand shoulder-to-shoulder with celebrity chef-helmed restaurants, market-style eateries, and intimate wine bars.
Start your culinary adventure at one of the neighborhood’s iconic trio of brasseries and cafés: Café de Flore, Brasserie Lipp, or Les Deux Magots. For a more local experience, explore family-run establishments like Au Sauvignon and Freddy’s, a wine bar popular with the after-work crowd, offering delicious shareable plates.
Enjoy the beautifully designed Le Bar des Prés, located behind the main drag, offering a stylish ambiance and cocktails, or head to Augustin Marchand d’Vins for natural wines and tapas.
Indulge in Champagne and exquisite cocktails at the Belle Époque Bar Joséphine, tucked away inside the legendary Hotel Lutetia, the only Palace-rated hotel on the Right Bank. For a taste of history, visit La Rhumerie, a rum bar dating back to the 1930s, known for its rum-based cocktails and punches.
A Parisian Sanctuary: Where to Rest Your Head
While well-known hotel brands are more common in other Parisian arrondissements, Saint-Germain-des-Prés offers a charming collection of boutique hotels, often housed in elegant old mansions.
Accommodation options range from budget-friendly three- and four-star hotels, offering charming and airy spaces in the heart of the neighborhood’s attractions, to luxurious five-star establishments like Pavillon Faubourg Saint-Germain & Spa and Relais & Château property Relais Christine, featuring a Guerlain Spa.
Perfect for Every Traveler
Saint-Germain-des-Prés, with its close proximity to major attractions and pedestrian-friendly streets, welcomes all types of travelers – solo adventurers, families with young children, couples seeking romance, and budget-conscious backpackers.
While some of the neighborhood’s classic cafés and brasseries can be on the pricier side, its student population ensures happy hour deals and special offers for those on a budget. The Luxembourg Gardens, with its abundance of activities for children, is a perfect family excursion. The neighborhood’s quieter evenings, compared to other bar-heavy areas, provide a peaceful respite.
With its bohemian spirit, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is known for its cleanliness and safety. The streets are rarely crowded, except on weekends, ensuring a more relaxed and enjoyable experience.
So, embark on a journey to the heart of Parisian charm and experience the captivating beauty of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
