In Paris' 6th arrondissement, on the left bank of the Seine, lies one of the city's most unmissable destinations: Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Full of charm and elegance, this romantic district is steeped in history and is of great interest to tourists from all over the world, who come to enjoy its unique atmosphere.
As a haunt of intellectuals and philosophers in the last century, Saint-Germain-des-Prés was visited by such famous names as Simone de Beauvoir, Jean-Paul Sartre, Boris Vian and Ernest Hemingway. This reputation reached its height after the Second World War, particularly at the famous Café de Flore, which was popular with artists and writers. Even today, visitors flock to this famous establishment where time seems to stand still… As well as this legendary place, there are other Parisian institutions like the Café des Deux Magots or the Brasserie Lipp, a listed Historic Monument. The latter, founded in 1880, has a charming 1900 décor with its large mirrors, chandeliers and ceiling frescoes. The atmosphere is typical of the great Parisian brasseries, with its waiters in black uniforms and white aprons. Yet Saint-Germain-des-Prés also has bookshops, art galleries and antique shops that give it a special atmosphere all of its own.
On your walk, you can also see the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of the oldest in Paris, dominated by an imposing square bell tower and standing on a charming cobbled square. After passing along Rue de Buci, which is always bustling due to the many cafes and restaurants there, be sure to drop by the banks of the Seine, on Quay de Conti, to see the French Institute (Institut de France), the magnificent Mazarine Library, and the Monnaie Mansion. With its 11 Conti Museum, it offers an experience on the theme of metal, its artistic crafts, treasures and remarkable heritage collections.
To the south-west of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, on Rue de Sèvres, you'll find the unmissable Bon Marché, a chic store selling clothes and fashion accessories by the top designers.
