Saint-Germain-des-Prés is without doubt the Parisian district where time seems to have almost stood still. And yet, different eras rub shoulders with one another in the different architectural styles, with some buildings and monuments dating back tomedieval times!
And here they are, frozen, ready to face the centuries, uniting their styles to offer the world an eternal retrospective of the city of Paris. But Saint-Germain-des-Prés is also famous for its love of literature. Bouquinistes display their beautiful aged leather bindings in shop windows, while other stores run by antique dealers offer unusual collectibles, from typewriters to vintage cameras and porcelain dolls.
In Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Odéon district, luxury and refinement à la française are also the order of the day, as evidenced by fashion, beauty and even home furnishings brands that follow one another and never resemble one another, while remaining faithful to the haute-couture image that Paris conveys around the world. Gastronomy also has its place here, with every street a place of honor, from the local bistro to the passionate wine merchant for whom wine holds no secrets.
As you'll have gathered, this district has more than one trick up its sleeve to help you experience and (re)discover thesoul of Paris in all its many facets. To discover Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Odéon district from every angle, follow the guide!
Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church, the heart of the Latin Quarter
The beautiful church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés has been through destruction and reconstruction. Fortunately, it's still standing today. And it's one of the last vestiges of Romanesque art in Paris! [Read more]
Eglise Saint-Sulpice, in the Odéon district - Video
The Eglise Saint-Sulpice is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful in Paris, and the second largest church in the city after Notre-Dame-de-Paris. It's well worth an extended detour! [Read more]
3 anecdotes about the Jardin du Luxembourg, discover the secrets of the Parisian garden
The Jardin du Luxembourg, considered by tourists as "the most beautiful garden in Europe", located in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, hides some little secrets, only known by the regulars of the area. Ready to discover them? [Read more]
Did you know? This fountain near the Jardin du Luxembourg represents only 4 continents.
Just off the Jardin du Luxembourg, in the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs, is a grandiose fountain by Napoleon III's sculptor. It represents four women carrying the world, allegories of the continents, but one is missing... find out why! [Read more]
The sublime Mines Paris library, a hidden treasure in the Jardin du Luxembourg
The sublime Bibliothèque des Mines Paris (PSL), nestled in the historic Hôtel de Vendôme in the Luxembourg Gardens, invites you to take a trip back in time to the 18th century. With over 200,000 documents, the library is open to all. [Read more]
The Saint-Sulpice fountain
The Saint-Sulpice fountain was designed by Louis Visconti, who was also responsible for the Molière fountain. Erected between 1843 and 1848, this imposing 12-metre-high Renaissance-style fountain is topped by an aedicula. Each face houses a larger-than-life statue of bishops under Louis XIV: Bossuet, Fénelon, Massillon and Fléchier. In the basins, four lions watch over the fountain.
The place of the rue de Furstemberg in Paris: a secret spot with a crazy charm
Nestled in the Latin Quarter in Paris, the place of the rue de Furstemberg is a secret place of the capital that attracts photographers. So discreet that it doesn't have a name, this place seduces us by its crazy charm! [Read more]
Ephemeris of September 17 in Paris: Bomb attack in front of Tati, rue de Rennes
On September 17, 1986, Paris was once again the target of a terrorist attack on the rue de Rennes. For two weeks, the capital had been the scene of a series of attacks, claimed by a pro-Iranian terrorist network working on behalf of the Lebanese Hezbollah. The bomb, planted in front of the Tati store, killed 7 people and wounded 55, putting an end to this "black September". [Read more]
Ephemeris for September 15 in Paris: Attack on the Publicis drugstore in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
On September 15, 1974, a grenade exploded in the Saint-Germain drugstore, killing 2 people and wounding 34 others. The attack was blamed on the revolutionary terrorist Ilich Ramirez Sanchez, known as Carlos. [Read more]
September 10th Paris Ephemeris: Tornado wreaks havoc in the heart of Paris
On September 10, 1896, a tornado formed in the heart of Paris, just a stone's throw from Place Saint-Sulpice. In just a few minutes, the phenomenon swept across the capital, ravaging everything in its path. [Read more]
Ephemeris for September 1st in Paris: The founding of the Sorbonne
On September 1, 1257, the Sorbonne was founded by Robert de Sorbon, chaplain and confessor to King Louis IX. Initially dedicated to destitute students, the school quickly became Europe's leading cultural and scientific center, thanks to the quality and wealth of its teaching. [Read more]
Ephemeris for August 13 in Paris: Eugène Delacroix's death, rue de Furstemberg
On August 13, 1863, the painter Eugène Delacroix breathed his last in his apartment on rue de Furstemberg, in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. [Read more]
Gabriel Pierné Square and its sublime cherry blossoms
In the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Square Gabriel Pierné is the place to be in spring. In April, cherry blossom lights up this buccolic spot where you can relax. This little corner of paradise, hidden behind the Institut de France, becomes the scene of a fascinating ephemeral nature, a must-see. [Read more]
The Jardin du Luxembourg, an exotic setting in the heart of Paris
The Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris is a popular park with Parisians, who call it "le luco", and tourists alike. A bucolic and lively garden, it's a delight for those who choose to stroll here, especially with the arrival of fine weather! [Read more]
The Garden of the Great Explorers, a little known walk in Paris
Do you know the Jardin des Grands Explorateurs? This little-known park in Paris, located a stone's throw from the Jardin du Luxembourg, is well worth a visit. Here you will discover a secret stroll in the middle of statues as well as the magnificent Fountain of the Four Parts of the World [Read more]
Jardin du Père-Armand-David, the garden of the 6th arrondissement
The 6th arrondissement is home to a new garden: the Jardin du Père-Armand-David. 500m2 of greenery and shade to delight young and old alike! [Read more]
The Catherine Labouré Garden and the Potager Garden
Among the capital's hidden parks and gardens is the Jardin Catherine Labouré, adjacent to the Jardin du Potager in Paris's 7th arrondissement. Discover 7,000 m2 of family-friendly green space, featuring fruit trees and green lawns. [Read more]
Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Odéon restaurants, our best addresses
From Saint-Germain-des-Prés to Odéon, the Latin Quarter is bursting with great restaurants. Here are our top addresses! [Read more]
Literary and artistic Paris: mythical restaurants and cafés, historic addresses
Immerse yourself in the Paris of yesteryear, discovering the mythical and historic restaurants, bistros and cafés where artists, authors and intellectuals met. [Read more]
Galette Café, oysters, crepes and Breton galettes in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
For a seaside break... in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, head for Galette Café. On the menu: oysters, Breton galettes and wheat crêpes, all washed down with cider, of course. [Read more]
Café Louise, the modern brasserie in Saint-Germain-des-Prés that makes you brush up on your classics
Café Louise is the contemporary brasserie that attracts Parisians and tourists alike to the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. At any time of day, this restaurant serves up French specialties and comfort food on a 100% home-made menu. [Read more]
Shiro, the Franco-Japanese Fusion restaurant in Saint Germain des Prés
Sponsored - Located in the Saint-Germain des Prés district, the bistronomic restaurant SHIRO offers Franco-Japanese fusion cuisine by chef Ryo Miyazaki in a chic, spacious setting. All summer long, SHIRO opens its flower-filled terrace, allowing you to enjoy a gastronomic moment on Boulevard Saint-Germain, SO CHIC! [Read more]
Treize au Jardin, the hybrid tea room just a stone's throw from the Jardin du Luxembourg
How about a gourmet tearoom a stone's throw from the Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris? We take you to Treize au Jardin, a picturesque address where you can enjoy sweet and savoury treats concocted from organic produce. [Read more]
Pane vivo, the unique, easy-to-digest bread made with ancient durum wheat, now available for delivery throughout France.
Do you know Pane Vivo? The bakery that makes bread that's good for you? A unique flour made from ancient durum wheat, an ancestral sourdough and a lot of time: these are the ingredients that make the digestive quality of this almost gluten-free bread. And the good news is that the house is launching a subscription to receive its bread anywhere in France. Your microbiota will thank you! [Read more]
Ralph's Coffee, Ralph Lauren's ultra-stylish American café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Ralph Lauren opens a typically American café on Paris's Boulevard Saint-Germain: Ralph's Coffee. In the heart of a 17th-century mansion, this address elegantly fuses authentic style and exquisite gourmet treats in a wooded setting, punctuated by touches of tartan and crystal chandeliers, where each tasting transports you into the chic, refined world of the fashion label. [Read more]
Les Deux Magots: legendary café in Paris's Saint-Germain des Près district
At Les Deux Magots, you'll discover a place steeped in history and an ideal setting for a gourmet break on the terrace. Since 1885, this legendary café has welcomed gourmets and art lovers alike. [Read more]
Le Gainsbarre, the café-restaurant and cocktail bar at the Maison Gainsbourg
Le Gainsbarre is the name of a hybrid café-restaurant by day and cocktail bar-restaurant by night in the Maison Gainsbourg, the famous house transformed into a museum in honor of the artist. With a decor evoking the artist's early piano-bar years, come and enjoy a room service menu from lunch to dinner. [Read more]
Dandino: our test of this fine Italian restaurant in Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Dandino is the beautiful Italian restaurant in Paris' Saint-Germain-des-Prés district! Opened by chef Arnaud Ancora, Dandino offers an air of dolce vita with an authentic menu, all within an elegant, powdery decor and a captivating musical ambience. We've tried it, we'll tell you about it! [Read more]
Dinner on a bus from Saint Germain to the Eiffel Tower!
One of the most original experiences the capital has to offer is eating in a bus with Paris as a backdrop. Discover the Bus Saint Germain 1920, the imperial bus that treats you to a Roaring Twenties atmosphere while admiring the most beautiful monuments the City of Light has to offer. [Read more]
Musée Delacroix: a must-see museum for Eugène Delacroix lovers in Paris
Discover the Musée Delacroix, a jewel in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, dedicated to the famous painter Eugène Delacroix. Explore the fascinating history of the museum, from its rescue to its transformation into a cultural space, and immerse yourself in contemporary exhibitions. A must for art and history lovers! [Read more]
Musée du Luxembourg: opening hours, prices, access... everything you need to know before visiting the museum
The Musée du Luxembourg, France's leading museum of contemporary art, awaits you for even more exhibitions and cultural events! Located in the heart of Paris' Latin Quarter, this emblematic museum is also steeped in history. Opening hours, access, prices, history... We take stock! [Read more]
Mundolingua, the unusual museum of languages and linguistics in Paris
Lovers of languages and linguistics will want to check out Mundolingua, the unusual museum of languages, language and linguistics. An opportunity to learn all about the world's languages. [Read more]
Musée Zadkine: l'Atelier - Museum near the Jardin du Luxembourg
On the outskirts of the Jardin du Luxembourg, the Musée Zadkine in Paris opens its doors free of charge to its permanent collection, all year round, in the heart of a green setting populated by sculptures. Nestled at 100 bis rue d'Assas, the museum is the former home of iconic sculptor Ossip Zadkine, who lived there from 1928 to 1967. [Read more]
Maison Gainsbourg in Paris: new slots go on sale in April
30 minutes of immersion in Serge Gainsbourg's incredible home, where everything has remained unchanged since his death on March 2, 1991. This is the moving and incredible experience that the Maison Gainsbourg has been offering since September 20, 2023. For the occasion, we pushed open the doors of the Maison Gainsbourg. We tell you all about this visit, a real plunge into the singer's intimacy, guided by Charlotte Gainsbourg's voice. New slots will go on sale in April! [Read more]
Italian Cultural Institute: program, exhibitions, events... All about Hôtel de Galliffet
Discover the Italian Cultural Institute of Paris, a cultural treasure nestled in the historic Hôtel de Galliffet! Explore its history and its essential contribution to the spread of Italian culture in France. Located in the prestigious 7th arrondissement, this establishment offers language courses, cultural events and a rich library, attracting Italian culture lovers and history buffs alike. Want to learn Italian? [Read more]
Andres Serrano - Portraits of America: the photo exhibition at the Musée Maillol - promo
The Musée Maillol in Paris is devoting a groundbreaking exhibition to photographer Andres Serrano from April 27 to October 20, 2024, for a look at America as you've never seen it before! Tickets open on April 17! [Read more]
Martine, the literary icon of our childhood, arrives in Paris for a free exhibition.
To celebrate her 70th birthday, Martine is honored with a free exhibition, from March 20 to May 9, 2024, at Galerie Gallimard. The beloved icon of our childhood is revealed here through a collection of original plates illustrating her adventures. These drawings, rooted in our collective history, have already captivated millions of young readers around the world. [Read more]
The Tiepolos: our photos of the exhibition at the Beaux-Arts de Paris
Something to delight art lovers... Les Beaux-Arts de Paris invites you to discover its latest exhibition, entitled Tiepolo: Invention and Virtuosity in Venice, from March 22 to June 30, 2024. Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Giambattista Tiepolo and his sons, through an exceptional collection of drawings and etchings celebrating the Venetian artistic genius of the 18th century. [Read more]
Match, design and sport: a behind-the-scenes look at sport at the Musée du Luxembourg
Victory sometimes comes down to a few things... Like a well-designed shoe. The Musée du Luxembourg looks at the links between sport and design, with the exhibition "Match", on view from March 13 to August 11, 2024. [Read more]
Popular Paris in the 70s: the Roger-Viollet gallery photo exhibition unveiled
Galerie Roger-Viollet plunges us into the working-class Paris of the 70s, with a free photo exhibition on view from March 7 to June 1, 2024. [Read more]
Ingres et Delacroix, objets d'artistes: a new exhibition from the Musée Delacroix
The Musée Delacroix brings Ingres and Delacroix face-to-face, in an exhibition that lifts the veil on the artists' intimacy. On view from March 20 to June 10, 2024. [Read more]
Œdipe - L'abîme de l'âme exhibition at the Italian Cultural Institute
The Italian Cultural Institute invites you to discover its latest exhibition, entitled "Oedipus. The Abyss of the Soul", from February 2 to April 26, 2024. The exhibition offers a contemporary reinterpretation of the Oedipus myth through the works of fifteen artists. A fascinating journey through art and mythology! [Read more]
MK2 Odéon: a lively cinema in the heart of the Latin Quarter
With two cinemas in Odéon, one on the Saint Germain side and the other on the Saint Michel side, MK2 makes the most of its location surrounded by the many tourist attractions of the Latin Quarter. [Read more]
UGC Danton movie theater
The UGC Danton movie theater is one of the two UGC group movie theaters set on Boulevard Saint-Germain in Paris 6th arrondissement. [Read more]
UGC Montparnasse movie theater
Set 350 meters from the Montparnasse Tower, you’ll find the UGC Montparnasse movie theater to enjoy movies played in exclusivity. [Read more]
We call it Flamenco, the exceptional Spanish dance show in Paris
Flamenco fans, you're in for a treat, as an authentic Spanish dance show comes to the capital. A true immersion in Spanish culture, for one evening! [Read more]
Montaigne, Les Essais, the extended one-man show at Théâtre de Poche Montparnasse
"Montaigne, Les Essais" runs at the Théâtre de Poche Montparnasse until June 8, 2024. The one-man show is an adaptation of Montaigne's Les Essais, performed by Hervé Briaux. [Read more]
Corneille's Le Menteur, Marion Bierry's successful adaptation at the Théâtre de Poche
Corneille's "Le Menteur" returns to the Théâtre de Poche Montparnasse from April 18 to June 28, 2024, following the success of the previous season. Marion Bierry's critically acclaimed adaptation and staging promise a Corneille classic like you've never seen before. [Read more]
Le Lucernaire: a cinema-theatre and restaurant in the Montparnasse district
Cinema, theater, bar or restaurant... they're all at Le Lucernaire! If you're in the mood for something a little out of the ordinary, head for the 6th arrondissement of Paris, where art meets art in all its forms. [Read more]
Le jeu de l'amour et du hasard, Marivaux's play at the Lucernaire
Le jeu de l'amour et du hasard runs at Le Lucernaire until June 2, 2024. Following its success since its first performance on January 24, 2024, the play, directed by Frédéric Cherboeuf, has been extended. [Read more]
The Comédie-Française, a theatrical institution in Paris
The Comédie Francaise, founded over three centuries ago, is a French cultural institution. Since 1799, it has been located in the heart of Paris, at the Palais-Royal station in the 1st arrondissement. [Read more]
Cabaret Rive Gauche: the immersive experience that lets you chat with Barbara and Boris Vian
Would you like to step back in time and meet some of the world's leading personalities? That's what Sculpteurs de Rêves offers you with its brand new immersive experience, Cabaret Rive Gauche. Join us at the Musée Maillol from April 26, 2024, for a drink in the company of Boris Vian and Barbara! [Read more]
Claire Chazal: Ma bibliothèque idéale at the Théâtre de Poche-Montparnasse
Claire Chazal, in Ma bibliothèque idéale, reads every Monday from March 25 to July 1 2024 at the Théâtre de Poche-Montparnasse. She shares her literary favorites during a reading session. [Read more]
In Miyazaki's dreams: a concert in the clouds at MPAA/Saint-Germain
This spring, the melodies of Hayao Miyazaki's films will resound in the small MPAA/Saint-Germain hall in Paris's 6th arrondissement, thanks to the Izanami duo formed by Marie Ishii and Guillaume Masson. [Read more]
Jazz à Saint-Germain-des-Prés 2024 Festival: Stacey Kent, Shani Diluka... the program
The Festival Jazz à Saint-Germain-des-Prés is back in Paris from May 13 to 20, 2024, with a new and 23rd edition packed with concerts and very jazzy discoveries! On the program? Stacey Kent, Shani Diluka and Fred Hersch. [Read more]
Gibert Joseph, an entire building dedicated to culture in the heart of the Latin Quarter: report
With its wide selection of new and second-hand products, Gibert Joseph is a long-established address for Latin Quarter regulars, selling books, CDs, DVDs and much more. [Read more]
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche in Paris, the world's oldest department store
Le Bon Marché, the world's very first department store, is an iconic institution of Paris shopping. Located on the left bank of the City of Light, in the chic 7ᵉ arrondissement, the historic address offers a cutting-edge selection of luxury brands, young designers and exclusive products in the fields of fashion, beauty, home and children. [Read more]
World Perfume Day: plunge into a whirlwind of emotions with the "Darius" piece
Sponsored - Perfume, that magical essence that touches our deepest souls, becomes the protagonist of a moving story in the celebrated play Darius.
Written by Jean-Benoît Patricot, Darius is much more than an ordinary play. It's a captivating sensory journey that takes you into a world of dreams and intense emotions. The play runs at the Lucernaire until April 28, 2024. [Read more]
Saint Laurent Babylone: the Maison Saint Laurent bookshop and art gallery in Paris
Maison Saint Laurent inaugurates its own bookshop-gallery in the 7th arrondissement of Paris: Saint Laurent Babylone. Open from Wednesday to Sunday, the new hybrid cultural haunt for art and fashion lovers organizes monthly exhibitions, book signings and DJ sets, among shelves stocked with fine art books and a cutting-edge selection of magazines and vinyl. [Read more]
Cordelia Coffee Flower Shop: Cordelia de Castellane's charming coffee shop and florist
The Cordelia Coffee Flower Shop subtly blends Parisian elegance with English pastoral charm, in the heart of Paris's Left Bank. Conceived by Cordelia de Castellane, Artistic Director of Dior Maison and some of the capital's finest restaurants, this deco-florise-coffee store infuses a bohemian-chic universe of fresh flowers, authentic decor and chef's delicacies! [Read more]
Le Bon Marché and Collector Square buy back your luxury items (bags, jewelry, watches, etc.).
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche is now offering Collector Square to buy back your luxury items. To take advantage of the service, visit the corner of the online platform for luxury and second-hand accessories, to drop off watches, bags and small leather goods, and perhaps even benefit from advantages in the department store. [Read more]
Elise Tsikis boutique-atelier in Paris
Do you like jewelry? Then let's discover the Elise Tsikis boutique and its beautiful creations inspired by nature. You're guaranteed to fall in love. [Read more]
Chercheminippes, the second-hand institution in Paris: shopping and home bargain
Chercheminippes is one of the oldest second-hand concepts you can find in Paris. With five stores along the rue du cherche-midi, you can find pieces from great brands, as well as furniture and decoration for a lesser cost. And you can even enjoy a give away your clothes to give them a new lease of life! [Read more]
Molinard, luxury perfumery à la Française
Molinard is the latest spot for those in search of a unique fragrance. The perfumery's first Parisian boutique opens its doors to you in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. [Read more]
A duo floating massage in historic vaulted cellars converted into unusual baths
Looking for a soothing experience with your soulmate? We'll take you on a unique and unusual duo treatment in Paris: a floating massage in old vaulted cellars in the Latin Quarter, converted into baths. [Read more]
A wellness ritual with a duo massage and floating bath for two in an aquatic spa in Paris
Clemens is the first aquatic spa in Paris. And good news for lovers, the wellness spot offers hot duo rituals, so you can enjoy a good hand-in-hand massage before taking advantage of the pools in former vaulted cellars in the Latin Quarter. [Read more]
Le Barbier des Voyeurs, masculine well-being in the heart of the 7th arrondissement
Le Barbier des Voyeurs is a trendy address in Paris's 7th arrondissement. This hybrid place is both a beauty salon and a concept store. A veritable temple to the art of living. We take a look at what's new! [Read more]
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche opens a new space dedicated to well-being and beauty
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche is dedicating a new space to the cult of well-being and beauty, to be discovered from September 5, 2022. A timeless setting, where luxury and refinement go hand in hand with the excellence of the expertise of the most prestigious skincare brands. [Read more]
La Maison des Histoires, an immersive museum for children aged 0 to 7, hidden in a bookshop
Behind the Chantelivre bookshop, a brand-new children's museum opens in June 2023, to the delight of the very young! La Maison des Histoires plunges the whole family into the literary worlds of l'École des Loisirs, between Cornebidouille and the Maximonstres! [Read more]
ÔTIPI Saint-Placide, the new address for the family toy store, in the 6th arrondissement
ÔTIPI, the must-visit neighborhood toy store in the 15th arrondissement, is expanding and will open a new address in September 2023, in the Saint-Placide district (6th). [Read more]
Unusual: an introduction to baby and prenatal massage at an aquatic spa in Paris
Pregnant women and new parents beware: an unusual spa offers treatments never before available in the capital, for the well-being of babies and mothers-to-be. [Read more]
Introduction to modeling and ceramics classes with friends or family at Three Seven, in the 6th arrondissement
Putting your hands in the clay is your guilty pleasure, the activity you never tire of? Then it's a good thing, because Three Seven is now offering its ceramic modeling classes for young and old, in its store in the 6th arrondissement. [Read more]
La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels: an anachronistic wine bar in Paris
La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels is a timeless wine bar in the Latin Quarter, just a stone's throw from the Marché Saint-Germain. Here, you'll discover a passionate address that caters for all budgets, while bringing together Parisians of today and yesteryear in the love of oenology. [Read more]
Monsieur Le Zinc: the self-service beer and wine bar
If you dream of filling your glass via old gas pumps, then quickly discover the concept of Monsieur Le Zinc, nestled in the 6th arrondissement of the capital. [Read more]
Discover all these great addresses on the map below!
What to do in Paris's 6th arrondissement? Good addresses and ideas for outings
Historic, chic, but also quite chill, Paris's 6th arrondissement is an iconic and lively neighborhood on the Left Bank. Here's the lowdown on what to do and where to go to make the most of it. [Read more]
Enjoy your visit to Saint-Germain-des-Prés!
