places to visit in latin quarter paris

21 Best Things To Do In The Latin Quarter Paris (+ Practical Tips)

Planning to visit the Latin Quarter and looking for what to do? This article will give you the  best things to do in the Latin Quarter , Paris  plus practical tips to guide you!

Commonly known as a student neighborhood due to its many scholarly establishments, the Latin Quarter is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in Paris , and no doubt one of my personal favorites!

From quaint cafes and restaurants, and historical buildings, to famous Parisian monuments , the Latin Quarter offers so much that will appeal to any kind of traveler.

The Latin Quarter is not just touristy as many may think of it! It has hidden and authentic streets that truly bring out the local vibe and visible influences of the Romans and other historical landmarks that history buffs will appreciate.

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So, whether you’re in Paris for 2 days or 3 days , the Latin Quarter located in both the 5th and 6th districts is one of the areas to add to your Paris itinerary .

And since it’s packed with so many attractions, in this article, I will be giving you some of the best things to do in the Latin Quarter for an amazing time.

But before we look at what to do in the Latin Quarter Paris, here are a few practical tips that I believe will make your trip much more enjoyable.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Best Things to Do in the Latin Quarter, Paris

From visiting historical monuments to museums, and churches, here are some of the best things to do in the Latin Quarter of Paris.

1. Go on a Walking Tour of The Latin Quarter

If you don’t want the stress of planning your trip or want a deeper insight into what you see from a knowledgeable and friendly person, then I recommend booking this Latin Quarter walking tour .

With this tour, you’ll be able to see all the highlights of the neighborhood plus some hidden gems while learning more about them.

The tour takes away the stress of figuring out where to go next and even how to get there.

All you have to do is show up at Saint Michel fountain (which is the meeting point) and your friendly tour guide will do everything for you.

2. Visit the Paris Panthéon

One of the highlights of visiting the Latin Quarter in Paris is the Panthéon . Constructed to resemble a Greek temple with columns and sculptures, and a dome soaring in the sky, the architectural beauty of the Panthéon is what draws many crowds.

Though it was initially constructed to be a church to honor the patron saint of Paris, Saint Genevieve at the command of King Louis XV, it was later converted into a mausoleum to be the final resting place of some of the most influential French people .

Over the years (specifically in the 19th century), it was converted back to a church twice and later into its current state as a mausoleum.

Today, you can visit its necropolis where famous French writers , Victor Hugo, Voltaire, and Émile Zola are buried.

More famous people buried or commemorated here include Marie Curie, her husband Pierre Curie, Josephine Baker, a famous French singer , and many others.

Besides historical significance, the Panthéon also offers stunning views of Paris from its dorm but only if you visit between April to October when the dome is open to tourists.

To access the Panthéon, you’ll need to purchase this entry ticket . Plus, if you buy it in advance, you’ll avoid the long queues.

3. Admire the Beauty of Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church

Just next to the Panthéon is one of the famous churches in Paris , Saint-Étienne-du-Mont .

After converting the Panthéon into a mausoleum as we’ve seen above, the shrine of Saint Genevieve was moved to this church where it currently still stays.

The church has a striking architectural beauty on the outside that can’t be missed but a step inside is equally rewarding with its detailed features.

From the Jubé, or Rood Screen, which is the only one of a kind in Paris, the nave, the pulpit, and its detailed sculptures and carvings, and its colorful stained windows, everything flows well together creating a masterpiece you can’t miss while exploring the Paris Latin Quarter.

4. Take a Latin Quarter Food Tour

For foodies, the best way to explore the Latin Quarter is through its food, and this Latin Quarter food tour will do exactly that.

On this tour, you’ll explore this historic neighborhood while tasting various French foods from foie gras, specialty cheese, and freshly baked goodies from various bakeries, and markets in the area and crown your 3 hours tour with French wine.

On top of tasting, you’ll also learn some history about the food and the Latin Quarter to increase your knowledge of both French food and the Latin Quarter.

5. Discover the Remains of Roman Influence at the Arènes de Lutèce

Mbzt , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Latin Quarter Paris history dates back to the time when the Romans occupied Paris. Over time, their influences and notably architecture have disappeared but one that still remains is Arènes de Lutèce .

During its prime time, it used to hold a capacity of 15,000 people to either watch a play or as an amphitheater for gladiatorial shows.

Today, part of it is in ruins but you’ll usually find locals either having a quick lunch break from its steps or playing Pétanque, a popular French outdoor game.

6. Go On a Biking Tour of the Latin Quarter

If you want to visit the Latin Quarter in a rather fun way, instead of walking, opt for biking.

This Latin Quarter biking tour will not only take you through the famous attractions of the area like the Pantheon and Arenes de Lutece, but you’ll also discover the hidden and lesser visited streets while your tour guide gives you facts and historical info about the places you visit.

After discovering the Latin Quarter, the tour will end in another famous neighborhood of Le Marais so that you get a glimpse of this lively area.

7. Visit Musée Curie

Photo by mike / Flickr

If you’re fascinated by radiography and its history, then Musée Curie is one of the best places in the Latin Quarter of Paris not to miss.

This museum used to be the laboratory where Noble Prize for Chemistry winner, Marie Curie conducted her research on radiography.

The museum houses some of the most notable instruments used by Curie and a permanent historical exhibition on radioactivity.

There are also documents and photos showcasing the work of Marie Curie and other historical events in radiography.

Visiting Musée Curie is free making it one of the must-visit free museums in Paris .

8. Learn About Plants At Jardin des Plantes

Jardin des Plantes is one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris ! As the main botanical garden in the country, the park features thousands of different plant and flower species that are not only beautiful to look at but also increase your knowledge about Plants.

Besides the large collection of plants, Jardin des Plantes is also home to greenhouses and a small zoo which you can visit to see some animals, but if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to see some without paying to enter.

And if you visit in spring , you’ll be treated to some of the best cherry blossoms in Paris as the park puts on a beautiful and huge display on its large cherry trees.

You should note that if you plan on picnicking here, you’ll have to use the benches within the park as it’s prohibited to sit on the grass.

9. Learn About Evolution at the National Museum of Natural History

Shadowgate from Novara, ITALY , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

While still in Jardin des Plantes, be sure to stop at the National Museum of Natural History .

Often referred to as the Louvre of Natural Science, the National Museum of Natural History opens a unique world to learn about different animal and plant species, both common and rare.

The museum has 4 galleries! The Grand Gallery of Evolution which focuses on different animals and birds, the Gallery of Mineralogy and Geology which showcases different minerals and stones, the Gallery of Botany which heavily focuses on plants, and the Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy which showcases Dinosaurs.

If you love to see the evolution of endangered species and stones, the National Museum of Natural History is one of the best places to visit in the Latin Quarter.

10. See the Sorbonne University

One of the main reasons the Latin Quarter is known as a student neighborhood is because of the many Scholarly establishments and one that stands out the most is Sorbonne University .

Established in 1150, the Sorbonne was the best university in Paris from the year of its establishment to 1970 (minus the French Revolution time), and many influential people like Popes, royals, and scientists studied there.

Though there are a number of Universities in Paris today, Sorbonne still retains the same kind of importance both locally and internationally and a stroll around it is well worth it.

It may not be possible to enter on your own but you can join a guided tour to visit the University by contacting ([email protected].) to book an appointment or better yet book this Latin Quarter walking tour .

11. Watch a Cabaret at Paradis Latin

Photo by Paradis Latin /Flickr

One of the best things to do in Paris at night is to watch a Cabaret and although the Moulin Rouge is most famous for this, one more intimate and less crowded option to consider is Paradis Latin in the heart of the Latin Quarter.

A night at Paradis Latin will be an unforgettable experience with perfectly choreographed dancers, creative shows, great attires, and lights! Everything is created to make sure you have a fun and electric night in the Latin Quarter.

Since shows at this Cabaret are popular, I recommend booking your seat in advance so as not to miss out.

You can either book this show with a 3-course dinner or this one without dinner since it’s cheaper, but regardless of what you choose, you can be assured of an amazing time.

12. Visit Cluny Museum

Also known as the National Museum Of The Middle Ages, Musée de Cluny is one of the unique museums to visit in Paris .

The museum is dedicated to the Middle Ages with objects that bring a rare glimpse of the medieval period.

It houses over 2,300 artifacts but the highlight of your visit will no doubt be the famous The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries and the Gallo-Roman baths .

Pro tip* Purchasing this Paris museum pass will give you free access to Cluny Museum.

13. Explore Shakespeare & Co Bookshop

Shakespeare & Co has gone from just being one of the best English bookstores in Paris to both a literary establishment and a popular tourist spot.

Back in the day, it used to host several famous writers, but today, people go there for various reasons.

You can visit to browse its collection of books, both new and old, attend one of the many festivals organized at the bookstore including book reads from famous writers, grab a coffee at their cafe, or even just take a photo of their recognizable storefront.

Another cool thing about Shakespeare & Co Bookshop is that when you buy a book from them, you’ll have it stamped with their logo which is a great souvenir. You can also buy one of their branded merchandise as a souvenir from Paris .

14. Grab a Book At The Abbey Bookshop

Shakespeare & Co may get all the rap but another equally stunning bookstore yet less crowded and less of a “tourist trap” is the Abbey Bookshop .

Easily recognizable with a Canadian flag paying homage to the Canadian owner, Brian Spence, this bookshop is covered in books in every little corner!

You can find 1st editions of rare books and discounted second-hand books to satisfy your bookworm side.

15. Take in the Beauty of Eglise Saint-Sulpice

Next on this list of things to do in the Latin Quarter, Paris is visiting Eglise Saint-Sulpice or Saint-Sulpice church.

Only second to Notre Dame Cathedral, Eglise Saint-Sulpice is one of the biggest churches in Paris.

Its unique architecture makes it stand out from most of the Parisian buildings making it easy to spot even from afar including from the steps and the dome of Sacre Coeur .

Up close, you can admire its many columns, relax from the historic fountain right in front of it, or enter inside to admire its baroque architecture and decoration including The gnomon, The Organ, the painting in its dome, and Eugène Delacroix’s murals.

If you’re wondering why this church might be familiar, it’s because it was referenced in the popular The Da Vinci Code novel.

So, if you were looking for what to see in the Latin Quarter of Paris, Eglise Saint-Sulpice is one of them.

16. Stop at the Grande Mosquée de Paris

Away from churches, another religious place to visit in the Latin Quarter is the Grande Mosquée de Paris or just the Paris Mosque .

Considered the oldest mosque in metropolitan France and one of the largest in the country, a visit to this mosque will not disappoint.

From the Minaret which you’ll be able to spot instantly, to colorful turquoise tiled floors and mosaic walls in the central courtyard/ garden, every stop at the Paris mosque is stunning.

Since it’s less frequented by tourists, it is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for nontouristy places in Paris .

The mosque is beautiful all year round, but it gets even more beautiful during spring, particularly in May when it’s covered in Wisteria.

Just remember to dress decently before your visit.

17. Make a Stop at the Saint-Michel fountain

Seeing a fountain might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of things to do in the Latin Quarter but the Saint-Michel fountain is well worth it.

Besides its impressive size and historical significance, you’ll find several dancers usually salsa, and if you feel like it, you can join them too.

The fountain looks like a triumphal arc with Arc Angel Micheal’s statue and several other carvings. If you’re into architecture, you’ll find this fountain impressive.

18. Visit Église Saint-Séverin

The Latin Quarter is not short of churches and another must-see is Église Saint-Séverin .

Though it’s located on a busy street, its Flamboyant Gothic style of architecture makes it easily recognizable.

You can visit the church to see its colorful glass-stained windows, twisted columns, and unique choir.

Although it’s underrated compared to other Parisian churches, in my opinion, it is worth visiting especially since it’s 2 minutes from Shakespeare and Company bookstore.

19. Relax in Square René-Viviani

While still in the proximity of Shakespeare and Company, if you want to take a quick break from sightseeing, Square René-Viviani is the perfect green space for that.

From this little garden, you can enjoy a view of the Notre Dame Cathedral and also get a chance to see the Oldest tree in Paris , a Robinia tree planted in 1601.

20. Take a Stroll on Rue Mouffetard

One of the oldest streets in Paris that has been in existence since the middle ages is Rue Mouffetard though its name has changed over the years to its current one.

The street is beaming with cafes and restaurants, bakeries, and a fresh produce market to pick up some goodies.

If people-watching is part of your adventure, pop in any of the cafes with an outdoor terrace and observe Parisians go about their lives with a coffee in hand.

21. Buy Used Books at San Francisco Bookshop

If you haven’t noticed, the Latin Quarter in Paris France has a number of English bookstores, and one you can’t miss because of its striking red storefront is San Francisco Bookshop .

Unlike other bookshops that focus on new books, this one majorly deals in second-hand English books with a small section for new ones.

The books are budget-friendly (since they’re second-hand) and you can find all kinds of books. From books about Paris , historical books, kids’ books, books about France , biographies, thriller books, Paris travel guides , and more.

Practical Tips For Visiting the Latin Quarter in Paris

Now that we’ve looked at all the fun things to do in the Latin Quarter, Paris, let’s see the practical tips for visiting this neighborhood.

Where is the Latin Quarter in Paris

The Latin Quarter is located on the left bank of the Seine and it covers both the 5th and the 6th arrondissements of Paris .

How to get to the Latin Quarter, Paris

To get to the Latin Quarter, you can take various metro lines depending on where you want to start your visit.

You can take either M7 and stop at Place Monge station , or M10 and stop Maubert-Mutualite station . These will both put you 8-10 minutes away from the Pantheon. Metro M7 can also connect you to Jardin des Plantes. From here, you can just walk as everything is within walking distance.

Please note  that the station you start your journey at may not have M7 or M10 but don’t worry about this as you can just switch lines until you land on either of them. The  city mapper app  will come in handy in guiding your route.

Where to Stay in the Latin Quarter

If you’re still  planning to visit Paris  and have zeroed down on staying in the Latin Quarter on your trip, here are some of the  best hotels in the Latin Quarter  to consider.

Budget Hotel

Hotel André Latin: If you’re looking for a budget hotel in the Latin Quarter, look no further than this one . It is located just 5 minutes from Luxembourg Gardens and the Panthéon and 10 minutes from Jardin des Plantes which makes exploring the area easy. And to connect you to other parts of the city, metro line 7 is a few minute’s walk too.

>>>  Click here to check rates and availability  <<<

Mid-range Hotel

Hotel Les Bulles De Paris: Located between Notre Dame Cathedral and the Pantheon, this is the best hotel to stay in if you’re on a mid-range budget. The rooms are decorated in fun bold colors to make everything lively and since the hotel pays homage to champagne, you’ll be able to taste all kinds of champagne from there. Plus, it has a sauna, hammam, and massage room to unwind from long hectic days.

Luxury Hotel

Hotel La Lanterne: The swimming pool, gym, and buffet breakfast are some of the things that make this hotel worthwhile. In terms of location, it is not far away from Cluny Museum, Luxembourg Gardens, and Notre Dame, so you’ll be surrounded by popular landmarks. Plus, you’ll be in the quiet part of the Latin Quarter yet everything remains accessible in just a few minutes.

Apartment rental

Appartement Censier Daubenton: If you’d rather have an entire place to yourself, then this apartment will not disappoint. It is fully equipped with a kitchen and a breakfast bar to make your own meals and it’s located in a less touristy area to get the authentic feel of Paris yet still well connected to other parts of the city. Though it’s a bit small, it can easily accommodate even a family of 4.

>>>  Click here to check rates and availability  <<<

Where to Eat in the Latin Quarter of Paris

After long hours of sightseeing, you’ll definitely want to eat at some of these Latin Quarter restaurants .

La Jacobine: If you want to eat traditional French food , this is the restaurant to go to. You’ll find dishes like onion soup, filet mignon, Coq au Vin de Cahors, and many more. Plus, its location in a historic covered passage couldn’t make it more Parisian. Address:  59-61 Rue Saint-André des Arts, 75006 Paris.

Le Petit Prince de Paris: If you’re all about fine dining, then this restaurant will do it for you. They serve French food in a cozy setting and you’ll be just 4 minutes away from the Pantheon. Address:  12 Rue de Lanneau, 75005 Paris.

Le Petit Châtelet: This restaurant serves regional dishes that are perfectly prepared for your satisfaction. It has both indoor and outdoor seating and it serves both lunch and dinner. Plus, it’s right next to Shakespeare and Co bookstore. Address:  39 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris.

FAQS About Visiting the Latin Quarter in Paris

Why is the Latin Quarter called that?

The name Latin Quarter dates back to the old ages when the most spoken language by professors and students in the neighborhood was Latin and hence, the Latin Quarter.

What is the Latin Quarter in Paris famous for?

The Latin Quarter is mostly famous for being a student neighborhood with many Scholarly establishments. The next thing is probably the Paris Pantheon.

Is the Latin Quarter in Paris touristy?

The Latin Quarter can be touristy, especially around the areas of the Pantheon, and Jardin des Plantes, but it has some quiet streets that bring out the authentic vibe of Paris.

Is The Latin Quarter Worth Visiting In Paris?

Absolutely Yes! The Latin Quarter has a number of famous attractions worth visiting.

From the Patheon, Arènes de Lutèce, Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church, and Jadin des Plantes, to various museums, and bookstores, the Latin Quarter is actually one of the must-visit neighborhoods of Paris.

Is The Latin Quarter In Paris Safe

Yes, the Latin Quarter is a safe area in Paris.

What District Is The Latin Quarter In Paris?

The Latin Quarter covers both the 5th and the 6th arrondissements.

What Is There To Do In Latin Quarter At Night?

Though it seems pretty laid back, the Latin Quarter has a lot to offer during the night too.

You can watch a cabaret at Paradi Latin, grab dinner at the many cozy restaurants or even stop at the bar for a drink. If you’re into photography, you can go and photograph the Pantheon as it’s incredibly beautiful when lit by the nearby lights.

Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do in the Latin Quarter Paris

The Latin Quarter is no doubt one of the coolest areas in Paris. With a little bit of everything from churches, museums, and gardens to historical landmarks, a visit to this neighborhood is sure to give you a taste of what Paris is.

Whether you choose to see landmarks, sit in a cafe to observe life in Paris, or just roam its famous and hidden streets, the list of things to do in the Latin Quarter of Paris is endless.

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Fun things to do in Paris on a Rainy day
• Famous Paintings in Paris
• Where to Find the Best Macarons in Paris
• Famous Paintings at the Louvre Museum
• Best Covered Passages of Paris
• Most beautiful neighborhoods of Paris
• Fun free things to do in Paris
• Famous Churches to Visit in Paris
• Best Museums in Paris
• Tips for Visiting the Eiffel Tower
• How to spend One day In Paris

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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Getting around paris, paris travel guide, paris essentials, train travel, paris arrondissements, the latin quarter of paris – where medieval meets modern.

The Latin Quarter's winding, cobblestone streets remind us of what the medieval city of Paris looked like, when the original scholars of the Sorbonne university roamed the streets speaking Latin. Built by the Romans, it is, in fact, the oldest district in Paris. Today, the Latin Quarter (the 5th Arrondissement) retains its ancient feel as it was largely spared the sweeping renovations of Baron Haussmann. From the food stalls on Rue Mouffetard to the Jardin des Plantes, the Pantheon, and the historic Cluny Museum, there's a lot to see and do in the Latin Quarter.

Our Top-Rated Latin Quarter Experiences

1. Dinner & Show at Paradis Latin Cabaret… The most popular evening in the Latin Quarter.

2. Private Latin Quarter Discovery Tour… Your own private walking tour.

3. Gourmet Food Tour of the Latin Quarter… Taste your way through the Left Bank

4. The 16 Best Things to do in the Latin Quarter… All in one list!

5. Our Top-Choice Latin Quarter Hotel… Stay at charming Hotel Monge.

1. Dinner & Show at Paradis Latin Cabaret…

2. Private Latin Quarter Discovery Tour…

3. Gourmet Food Tour of the Latin Quarter…

4. The 16 Best Things to do in the Latin Quarter…

5. Our Top-Choice Latin Quarter Hotel…

23 Great Things About the Latin Quarter of Paris

1. the pantheon.

This magnificent Paris landmark is a monument and mausoleum to France's greatest men (and two women). Originally built as a church in 1758, it was converted to a shrine to the "heroes of France" during the French Revolution. The exterior was modeled after the Pantheon in Rome and it's worth a detour to explore inside. It's where Foucault first demonstrated his famous pendulum. An excellent way to see & learn about the Pantheon is on a private walking tour.

Discover What's On When You're Here...

Discover what's on when you're here, 2. hotel monge.

Our top-rated hotel in Paris, Hotel Monge , is perfection in many ways — from the welcoming salon replete with fresh flowers to the splendid service to the fantastic finishes in the rooms. Then, there's the location. Steps from two metro stops and situated in the heart of the Latin Quarter on Rue Monge , a classic Parisian street filled with boulangeries, and wine shops.

3. Latin Quarter Discovery Tour

We like spending a couple of hours to get a real feeling for a neighborhood, and that's true for this historic quartier . Led by a professional guide, this walking tour takes you to the very heart of medieval Paris. Learn about the many layers of the Latin Quarter — historic monuments and classic architecture as well as the hottest jazz clubs, nightclubs, cocktail bars, and hip restaurants. You'll see the bookstores, the Pantheon, the Sorbonne, Jardin du Luxembourg, and the best of the district.

Experience the Splendor Of Versailles

4. hotel les dames du panthéon.

You'll love the mix of antique furniture, French fabrics, period woodwork, exposed beams, as well as the recent upgrades in this romantic, boutique hotel. And, if you book a superior room, you'll be rewarded with an dazzling view of the Pantheon, with Sacre-Coeur in the distance. Added bonus — all rooms have air conditioning.

5. Paradis Latin

The Latin Quarter, famous for bars and cabarets, is also home to Paradis Latin , the oldest cabaret in Paris. It was founded by Napoleon in 1802 (or so they say) and then updated and re-designed by Gustave Eiffel in 1889. Today, the show has been modernized once again, it's smart, sexy & fun yet retains its classic old-school Paris roots. Added bonus: the menu was created by Michelin-star chef Guy Savoy, making it the best dinner show in all of Paris.

6. The Best Places to Stay in the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is not only a wonderful place to stroll, to sit in sidewalk cafes, and take in a cabaret. It turns out it's also one of the best places to stay while you're in Paris. The district is so… cosy, and oh-so Parisian. Even better, we've already found the best hotels in the quartier for you — hotels that not only meet our criteria, but that travelers have loved. In fact, all of these hotels have been awarded our highest ratings — from "Highly Rated" right up to our supreme accolade of "Superb-Plus". Be sure to check our reviews.

Romantic Dinner Cruises In Paris

7. la sorbonne.

It's the oldest university in France and one of the most famous place of higher learning in the world. Founded in 1257, you might not know that the Collège de Sorbonne is actually a collection of thirteen separate universities. Three of them have Sorbonne in their names — Panthéon-Sorbonne, Sorbonne Nouvelle, and Paris-Sorbonne .

• Sorbonne Website …

8. Latin Quarter Gourmet Food Tour

The Latin Quarter isn't just about history and museums, it's also about food, as Julia Child and thousands of other visitors before and since have discovered. In fact, in the shops and markets of the Latin Quarter you can find the best foods France has to offer.

That's why we like this food tour that gets you deep into the culinary culture of the quartier as you follow a food-expert guide to shops and markets. Learn how these specialties are produced, how to choose them, and how to prepare your own gourmet recipes. This semi-private tour accommodates a maximum of 8 people, so book early.

9. Hotel des Grand Hommes

There are good reasons this romantic Latin Quarter boutique hotel is an old favorite. The location can't be beat — directly across from the Pantheon. Travelers rave about the friendly staff, the classic interior design and the excellent views. You're close to so many must-see places including Jardin du Luxembourg, Rue Mouffetard, and the famous English-language bookstore, Shakespeare & Company.

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10. shakespeare & company.

A Paris institution, this independently-owned English bookstore was opened in 1919 by American Sylvia Beach. She ran it as a casual bookstore and boarding house for up-and-coming writers. Ernest Hemingway wrote about it his memoir, A Moveable Feast . World War II crashed into Paris and the bookstore closed during the Nazi occupation. Then, in 1951, another young American, George Whitman, re-opened the store and infused new energy with a new location in the Latin Quarter.

Now Whitman's daughter Sylvia Beach Whitman is in charge. She runs it much like it was before — as a bohemian hangout for writers and book lovers. Plan to spend time browsing the jumbled book shelves or drop in next door at the cafe.

• 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005
• Website …

11. Musée National du Moyen Age

Paris is filled with many hidden treasures and this Museum of the Middle Ages is certainly one of them. Away from the tourist bustle, this small gem of a museum is dedicated to the Middle Ages (not yours, but that epoch in history). One of the many highlights is the tapestry collection, including the über-famous La Dame a la Licorne (The Lady and the Unicorn). This six tapestry series was woven in Flanders from wool and silk using designs from Parisian life of the 1500s.

Other must-sees are the Roman-Gallo baths from the 3rd century, the Gothic ivories, sculptures, artwork and stained glass windows. Often referred to as the "Cluny", its name comes from the original building, which was the Cluny monastery. After you've exhausted yourself admiring the tapestries, slip outside and sit quietly in the peaceful garden.

12. Jardin des Plantes

During the 17th century, the Jardin des Plantes (botanical garden) was used to grow medicinal herbs for royalty. It was originally called the Jardin du Roi (The King's Garden). Today, we consider it a Paris hidden gem with lush gardens, pathways, benches, the zoo, and a collection of museums all at one address. The gardens boast 4,500 different plants in its alpine garden, rose garden, and Art Deco winter garden. There are also three large greenhouses; one built in the 1800s is a marvelous tribute to the period glass and metal architecture.

It's free to enter the gardens but there is a fee for the zoo and Natural History museum. We think it's the perfect place to take your children. You can easily spend the day here, dividing your time between all of the museums, gardens, zoo, and open areas.

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13. the zoo at jardin des plantes.

The French Revolution is responsible for many things and this wonderfully old-fashioned zoo, the second oldest in the world, is one of the more unusual. It was a "thing", a status symbol, for French royals to keep exotic animals on their estates. After they lost their heads (the royals, not the animals), the menageries needed a home.

One of those royal estates was Versailles. In 1793 animals from the king's ménagerie were transferred here to the Jardin des Plantes and the zoo was begun. What makes this zoo such a Paris treat is that some of the original green-glass exhibit cases from the 19th-century are still in use; places where the snakes, tortoises and other reptiles make their homes. Also of note are the adorable red pandas found in an outdoor habitat.

• Jardin Des Plantes, 75005

14. Natural History Museum

It's called the Natural History Museum (Muséum national d'Histoire naturelle) , but it is in fact a handful of museums located in the Jardin des Plantes and elsewhere — the Gallery of Mineralogy (Galerie de Mineralogie et de Geologie) , the Gallery of Paleontology (birds, dinosaurs, prehistoric animals), the ménagerie in the Jardin des Plantes, and the Grande Gallery of Evolution.

This collection of museums is the place to take children to see all things animals. Plan to spend at least three hours here, with a special stop at the Galeries des Enfants , an interactive science museum designed with children in mind.

• 57 Rue Cuvier, Jardin des Plantes, 75005

15. Institute du Monde Arabe

The Institute of the Arab World explores the scientific and cultural contributions of Arabs throughout history. The building itself is worth a visit. The contemporary structure, designed by Jean Nouvel and completed in 1987, features an exterior wall of photosensitive apertures, which open or close depending on the light level, paying homage to the traditional Moorish screen. It's a bit of a gimmick, but an interesting experiment nonetheless.

Here you will find temporary exhibitions as well as permanent collections, a library that features a spiral tower of 100,000 books, and a peaceful interior courtyard.

• 1 Rue des Fosses Saint-Bernard, 75005 Paris

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16. musée curie.

This fascinating free museum is housed in the building where Marie Curie worked and made her remarkable discoveries about radioactivity. In case you've forgotten your French scientific history, Marie Curie was the first woman to win a Nobel Prize, the first person to win two Nobel Prizes, the first woman to become a professor at the Sorbonne, and one of only two women to be entombed in the Pantheon. Unfortunately she died young (at age 66) due to exposure to radiation during her experiments.

But the awards didn't stop with Marie . Husband Pierre, their eldest daughter Irène and her husband Frédéric Joliot-Curie all received a Nobel Prize as well. Although the subject matter sounds geeky, the museum is filled with interesting antique scientific instruments and there is a wonderful small garden to pause and think about how Marie Curie and her family changed the world.

• 1 Rue Pierre et Marie Curie, 75005

17. Rue Mouffetard – Iconic Market Street

Julia Child's favorite food market is still as bustling as it was in the 1950s, and for hundreds of years before that. (You can see Meryl Streep shopping here in Julie and Julia .) If you want to see the freshest and most bountiful displays, arrive in the morning. The vendors generally set up by 9 AM, close for lunch and reopen at about 2 PM. The Sunday market is a vibrant affair, but be warned: it closes for Sunday lunch and doesn't reopen until Tuesday.

Start your journey on the north end of Rue Mouffetard near the Pantheon and walk south with Eglise Saint-Médard as your final destination. If you want to have an impromptu picnic with your shopping bag loaded with cheeses, baguette, ripe tomatoes, and cured meats, lay your blanket down in the shade of Square Saint Medard.

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18. grande mosquée de paris.

It's the largest Islamic place of worship in Paris. Founded in 1926, the Grande Mosquée was a tribute to the Muslim soldiers from French colonies who died in World War I. During World II the mosque became a secret refuge for Algerian and European Jews trying to escape the Gestapo. Many escaped using Muslim birth certificates to guarantee safe passage out of Nazi-occupied France. Today, the mosque welcomes guests to enjoy the architecture, the peaceful gardens, the hammam spa, and the popular tearoom and restaurant.

• 2bis Place du Puits de l'Ermite, 75005
• Metro – Place Monge.

19. Boulevard Saint-Michel

Boulevard Saint-Michel is the only example of Baron Haussmann's wide boulevards found in the Latin Quarter. In fact, there are only two of these major thoroughfares on the Left Bank — one is Boulevard Saint Michel (5th Arrondissement), the other is Boulevard Saint-Germain (mostly in the 6th Arrondissement). Start at Pont Saint Michel and the place which bears the same name and continue south past the Sorbonne, the Jardin du Luxembourg, and end at Place Camille Jullian .

The tree-lined boulevard is a boundary between the two arrondissements — the odd numbered buildings belong to the 5th and the even numbers to the 6th. Today, it's where you'll find many shops, cinemas, and cafes. Veer off the major boulevard to the east and you'll be back in medieval Paris, with winding, small streets we associate with the Latin Quarter.

20. Latin Quarter Metro & RER Stations

Line 10 is an important Metro route that connects the Latin Quarter to the rest of Paris. It runs from the far west in Boulogne-Pont de Saint Cloud, through the center of Paris and continues to its furthest eastern destination of Gare d'Austerlitz. It stops in the Latin Quarter at Cluny-La Sorbonne , Maubert-Mutualité, Cardinal Lemoine, and Jussieu stations.

The longest Metro line in Paris, Line 7, crosses the city north to south in a curved path from Mairie d'Ivry in the north to Villejuif-Louis Aragon in the south. It stops in the Latin Quarter at Place Monge, Jussieu and Censier/Daubenton stations. Finally, at station Saint-Michel Notre-Dame you can catch Metro line 4, and RER B & C.

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21. fromagerie androuet – depuis 1909.

It's one of the leading fromageries of Paris, and with well over 200 cheese shops in the city to choose from, that's high praise. There are several Androuet locations in Paris — in the 7th, 14th, 15th and 16th — but the one on Rue Mouffetard holds a special place in our hearts. Come to sample and to buy some of the hundreds of cheeses on offer, then step back to admire the beautifully painted exterior of the building.

• 134 rue Mouffetard

22. La Tour d'Argent

This place is the stuff of culinary legend. La Tour d'Argent is one of the most famous restaurants in Paris and it has a long history — there has been a restaurant at this location since 1780. The "silver tower" of the restaurant's name was built on this spot in 1582. The Terrail family have owned it since 1912 and they held three Michelin stars for an amazing 63 continuous years — from 1933 to 1996. The restaurant still retains one Michelin star today.

La Tour d'Argent is famous for its duck, first roasted, then pressed in an authentic steel duck press. The juices are used to make a memorable sauce. Each duck is numbered (the millionth duck was ordered in 2003) and are sourced from Maison Burgaud in Challans in southwest France. Franklin D. Roosevelt dined on duck #203,728. Come for the duck and be dazzled by views of Notre Dame Cathedral and the Seine River. By the way, when the flag is flying over La Tour d'Argent it means that a member of the Terrail family is present on site.

• 15 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005

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23. beaucoup des églises .

Four historic churches dominate the skyline of the Latin Quarter — Saint-Severin, Saint-Etienne-du-Mont, Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, and Saint-Médard.

SAINT-ETIENNE-DU-MONT Closest to the Pantheon is Saint-Etienne-du-Mont, the church that holds the shrine to the patron saint of Paris, St Genevieve. Like many historical structures in the city, Saint Etienne has had numerous incarnations since it was built in the 6th century. The current version and the bell tower date from 1624. For film lovers, you'll recognize the exterior staircase from Woody Allen's Midnight in Paris . It's also where you'll find the last jube in Paris — sort of a bridged gallery that separates the nave of the church from the choir — and this one is a sculpted marvel, as pictured above.

EGLISE SAINT-MEDARD Originally built in the seventh century, Eglise Saint-Medard was destroyed by the Vikings 200 years later. Over the centuries it's had its fair share of renovation; the last major work was done in the 1700s. Saint-Medard is a charming and delightful place to end your tour of Rue Mouffetard (see point #9). Inside this Paris hidden gem are art treasures; you can see paintings by Philippe de Champaigne (1602 – 1674), Jean-Antoine Watteau (1684 – 1721), a Gobelins tapestry, and stained glass from the sixteenth century.

SAINT-JULIEN-LE-PAUVRE Although it wasn't completed until the 13th century, the construction of Eglise Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre started the same time as Notre Dame cathedral in 1165. Just steps away from the Musée National du Moyen Age , it's been a Greek Catholic parish since 1899.

EGLISE ST SEVERIN Eglise St Severin features gargoyles, flying buttresses and the oldest bells in Paris, cast in 1412. It is, in fact, the oldest church on the Left Bank, begun during the first half of the fifth century. Today there are occasional classical music concerts performed here.

The Best Markets in the Latin Quarter

• RUE MOUFFETARD Every day except Monday and half-day Sunday.
• MAUBERT Place Maubert Tuesday & Thursday, 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM; Saturday 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• MONGE Place Monge Wednesday & Friday 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM; Sunday 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM
• PORT-ROYAL Along Val de Grace Hospital, on Boulevard Port Royal Tuesday & Thursday, 7:00 AM to 2:30 PM; Saturday 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM

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Latin quarter facts & fancies.

• The Latin Quarter is the the oldest district in Paris. Built by the Romans, it began as a village called Lutetia.
• The Arene de Lutece , the ancient stadium of Lutetia, was built by the Romans to accommodate 17,000 spectators. Victor Hugo fought hard to protect it from the Haussmann renovations of Paris of the mid-19th century. Final score — Hugo one, Haussmann zero. Today, children like to play soccer here. Hotel Monge (rated "Superb-Plus by us), abuts the ancient Roman stadium.
• T he Pantheon is perfectly positioned on Montagne Sainte-Genevieve to overlook much of the Latin Quarter. It's an ideal starting point for a walk into either the Latin Quarter or towards Jardin du Luxembourg in the 6th, carrying on to Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
• Next to the Pantheon is the Sainte Genevieve Library, the world's first independent public library.
• The ancient Rue de la Huchette in the Latin Quarter, close to the Seine is today filled with tacky souvenir shops and the worst of international junk foods. Just walk on by!
• One of the narrowest streets in Paris is a passage called Rue du Chat qui Peche (the street of the fishing cat) with a width of 1.8 meters (5'10") — although we swear if feels narrower than that when you're walking it. It's found just off 14 Rue de la Huchette.
• Le Jardin d l'Ecole Normal Superieure is a pleasant little courtyard garden with a small pond found at 45 Rue d'Ulm, south of the Pantheon. It's open to the public during school hours.
• Salvador Dali's sundial. On the side of an otherwise unassuming building at 27 Rue Saint-Jacques (a little way behind Shakespeare & Co) is an astonishing sundial created by Dali in 1968. It depicts the head of a woman in the shape of the scallop shell.

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Guide to the Latin Quarter of Paris

The Latin Quarter is an incredible area of Paris that you need to visit when you’re here. The medieval area is steeped in history and has so much to see and do. It’s not just a museum district either, with a bustling student population it has plenty of great restaurants and bars! Read on to discover more about the area, what to see and where to stay.

Our guide is written by someone who actually lives in Paris and has done for the last 8 years. So read on to discover more about the incredible Latin Quarter of Paris!

This guide is in the following sections:

What is the Latin Quarter and Where is it in Paris?

Practical information, square rené viviani, shakespeare & company bookshop, the panthéon, church of saint-étienne-du-mont, rue mouffetard, grand mosque of paris, arènes de lutèce, paris jazz corner, where to eat & drink in the latin quarter, where to stay in the latin quarter, why is it called the latin quarter, is it safe, how to get there.

The Latin Quarter of Paris is located in the city’s 5th arrondissement on the left bank of the city. It’s an Medieval area filled with historical monuments dating back thousands of years and picture perfect, ancient streets.

Home to Paris’ oldest universities, the area is bustling with it’s dense student population which makes it particularly diverse. It’s not just student bars and libraries though – there’s plenty of incredible monuments to see and beautiful streets to discover.

The quarter is also home to the stunning Panthéon atop of the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève hill overlooking the city. Go further to the east and you’ll walk down one of the oldest streets in the capital and even ancient Roman ruins.

The Latin Quarter is easy to explore and access from the rest of the city. You can easily explore the area in a day including a visit to the Panthéon.

Tip : You can expect to walk around 6 miles / 10km. It’s fairly flat with the highest point being the Panthéon on the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève hill which is about 60m above the rest of the city.

I’d advise bringing comfortable shoes (there are a lot of cobbled streets) and a bottle of water. Note that there are free to use public fountains around the quarter to refill your water bottle.

What to Do & See

There is so much to do and see in the Latin Quarter and our guide covers only the must-do’s!

Tip : If you’re wanting to see and learn all the must-do sites in the Latin Quarter in a few hours then I’d recommend taking a walking guided tour .

The Square René Viviani is a small garden next to the busy main road adjacent to the Seine with views on the Notre-Dame cathedral. Dating back to the early 1900s, the garden is an interesting spot to start a tour of the Latin Quarter. Why is it worth a visit? It’s a small park that’s absolutely steeped in history. In the centre of the garden you’ll find the oldest tree in Paris, a locust tree planted in 1601. This ancient tree is surrounded by a circular bench – it’s hard to miss!

At the back of the garden you’ll find the Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre church which is one of the oldest churches in the capital dating back to the 12th century. Finally, scattered around the park you’ll find chunks of carved stone – these pieces are actually from the Notre Dame cathedral that were removed during a renovation works in the 1800s.

The Shakespeare and Co. bookshop is just around the corner from the Square René Viviani and is a famous English language bookstore.

The original bookshop was started in 1919 but eventually closed during the Nazi occupation in WW2 and never reopened. Some 30 years later the bookstore was reopened by a new owner, George Whitman, who kept the same name. The bookstore quickly became a well known meeting spot for anglophone writers. They even have accommodation for writers (they’re called tumbleweeds ) wanting to live in the city in return for volunteer work!

Next door to the bookshop they have a café with views over to the Notre Dame cathedral. It’s a great spot for a coffee break during your exploration of the area!

The Panthéon is up there as one of the city’s most recognisable monuments and it’s definitely worth visiting. The mighty building lies atop of the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève hill and is visible from across Paris.

Designed to be a church dedicated to the city’s patron saint, Saint Genevieve, King Louis XV ordered the construction back in the mid 1700s. Construction first began in 1758 and was finished 32 years later, in 1790 (right in time for the start of the French Revolution!).

After the revolution, the National Assembly decided to turn the church into a mausoleum for the country’s most famous citizens. You’ll find the tomb of Victor Hugo and Josephine Baker. You can buy advanced tickets to skip the queues here .

The Saint-Étienne-du-Mont church is located right next to the Panthéon on the Place Sainte-Geneviève . This ancient church dates back to the late 1400s when construction first began and eventually (it took a very long time to build) it was consecrated in 1626.

It’s free to enter and is definitely worth a quick visit. The gothic interior is stunning with incredible details on the vaults and stained glass.

An interesting part of the church is in the beautifully gilded Chapel of Saint-Genevieve where you’ll find the shrine to St. Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris. Her original tomb was destroyed during the French Revolution but the shrine contains surviving fragments and relics.

The Rue Mouffetard is up there as one of the most famous streets in Paris. It’s also one of the oldest surviving streets in the capital dating back to the 13th century. The 650m road starts near the Panthéon and winds down to near the Censier Daubeton metro station. Untouched by Baron Haussmann’s transformation of Paris, the street has retained it’s old Paris charm and that makes it a must visit .

In the day it’s a gem of a street for shopping and discovering incredible produce from small grocery shops. As the sun goes down, the street comes alive as all the bars open up and partygoers descend on the area. There are over 100 bars on the street and it’s a great place for a drink at night!

It’s a real Parisian street where people live, work, eat and socialise. There aren’t many “authentic’ Parisian streets in the city but this is definitely one!

The Grand Mosque of Paris is definitely an underrated attraction to visit in the city. Located about a 5 minute walk from the middle of Rue Mouffetard, I’d recommend stopping off here before visiting the nearby Jardin des Plantes.

The mosque itself has different sections including a giftshop, Hammam, tearoom and restaurant. I’d definitely advise visiting just for the beautiful central courtyard and garden. It’s a beautiful place to walk around and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding streets. The Moorish architecture is stunning with deep blue Moroccan inspired mosaic tiles and keyhole arches around grand, wooden doors.

The tearoom is a fantastic spot for a break (especially after a long walk) and has the same beautiful Moorish decor as the courtyard. Instead of waiting to order, there are waiters that come round with mint tea and North African pastries and you choose and pay directly.

The Arènes de Lutèc is an incredible (and surprisingly unknown) ancient Roman amphitheatre dating back to the first century AD. The 15,000 capacity arena saw gladiator fights and was even flooded for boat combat.

Today it’s a park with the old upper, staggered seating sections transformed for picnics. The lower section is completely flat and you’ll often find children playing soccer.

If you want to see more Roman remains, there’s the old Roman baths in the Cluny Museum in the west of the Latin Quarter.

Finally, if you like Jazz then there’s a gem of a music store right next to the Arènes de Lutèce . Stocking a huge collection of vinyls, CDs, posters and books, it’s a great spot to pick up a souvenir from your trip to the city of light.

There are some fantastic restaurants in the Latin Quarter and we’ve got a separate guide on our favourite spots here.

If you want to eat in great French restaurant I’d recommend Baca’v , it’s a fantastic modern bistro that’s even in the Michelin guide.

Low on time? There’s an array of great fast-food spots in the Latin Quarter that cater for the student population. One of my favourite Greek kebabs is from Casse Croute Grec and is close by the Panthéon. Alternatively, Au P’ti Grec is a really popular sandwich and crêpe spot on rue Mouffetard. Finally if you’re looking for a nice café then I’d recommend TRAM which is a really lovely café-bookstore near the Panthéon.

If you’re looking for a night out then Rue Mouffetard and the very animated side street Rue du Pot de Fer is where you want to go. Famous for the cheap student bars, there’s a fun, friendly atmosphere and is perfect for a great night out.

The Latin Quarter is a great place to stay in the city and we’ve got an in-depth guide on the best hotels to stay here here. For quick reference, here’s 3 of our favourite hotels:

• Les Jardins Du Luxembourg

The Les Jardins Du Luxembourg is a fantastic 4* hotel right next to the Jardins du Luxembourg, on the border of the Latin Quarter and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. The hotel is very modern and is ideally located in a quiet, residential area.

• Select Hotel

The Select Hotel is another great 4* hotel in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Only a 5 minute walk from the Panthéon, it’s an incredibly located to explore the surrounding areas and the rest of the city. The hotel is really modern but has plenty of old Paris charm with exposed wooden beams in the rooms.

• Hotel des Carmes by Malone

Want to stay in a beautiful design boutique hotel? The Hotel des Carmes by Malone is stunning 4* hotel on the footsteps of the Panthéon. The whole of the hotel has in a retro meets modern vine and the stunning design features are everywhere .

FAQ: The Latin Quarter

The area is called the Latin Quarter due to the fact that it’s home to the oldest universities in the city. Latin was the language that the courses were taught in back in the Middle Ages – hence the name!

Yes the Latin Quarter is a very safe neighbourhood. Like any areas in the city there will always be scams and pickpockets. Check out our guide on how to keep safe in Paris .

The Latin Quarter is well connected with 3 Metro lines running through it. You can get into the heart of the area by taking Line 4 (west side), Line 10 (centre) and Line 7 (south and east).

How to Get to the Eiffel Tower from the Latin Quarter

Getting to the Eiffel Tower from the Latin quarter is really easy . You have two options which are direct:

Metro: Line 10, which runs through the Latin Quarter ( Jussieu , Cardinal Lemoine , Maubert – Mutualité , Cluny La Sorbonne and Odéon ), goes direct to La Motte – Picquet Grenelle . From there it’s about a 15 minute walk through the Jardin de la Tour Eiffel which is a really lovely walk! RER: Alternatively if you’re on the west side of the Latin Quarter then you can take the RER overland train. You can take the RER C from Saint Michel Notre Dame and this takes around 10 minutes.

• Latin Quarter

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TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

A historic center of learning, scholarship, and artistic achievement in Paris , the Latin Quarter's mystique is well-merited. Unfortunately, the area is also a victim of its own popularity and it can be hard to see through some of the tourist-trap artifices to get at the fascinating heart of this beloved neighborhood. While you won't regret sacrificing some time away from the big-ticket attractions of the City of Lights, there are a variety of great activities worth prioritizing. Here's what to see on your visit to the Quartier Latin to engage more deeply with its rich, incomparable history.

Explore the St-Michel District and Seine-Side Quays

The area around Metro St. Michel is the easiest gateway to the Latin Quarter. To begin exploring the vicinity, take a stroll along the Quai St-Michel, which runs alongside the left bank of the Seine River . Admire the Square St-Michel (with its iconic fountain statue of the archangel Michel smiting Satan), and continue walking along the river on the Quai de Montebello, continuing eastward from the square. 

It's typically best to avoid spending too much time in tourist-trap areas such as Rue de la Harpe, full of overpriced and mediocre restaurants. If a restaurant promises "authentic French cuisine" with the aid of a cardboard cutout of a pig donning a chef's hat, or if there are people outside the restaurant trying to lure you in with waves and pushy words, it's very likely not worth your time or euros.

Places around St-Michel worth exploring:   Rue Saint-André des Arts, with its antiquarian dealers, rare booksellers, and cute cafés; Rue Hautefeuille, with its MK2 Hautefeuille arthouse cinema , and the Gibert Jeune and Gibert Joseph bookshops on and around Place St-Michel, with their bright yellow-orange signs.

Uncover Scientific History at Musée Curie

Dedicated to the work of Marie Curie—the mother of modern physics—and her family, the Musée Curie is a free museum that marks the site of monumental scientific achievement. Located a few blocks down from the Pantheon, where Marie Curie is entombed, the museum is housed in the building where the Curies conducted many of their radium experiments. (Interesting fact: The door handle is said to still be radioactive.) During your visit, you will get a first-hand glimpse of the kind of equipment used by these pioneering scientists in the preserved lab and office space. For any aspiring scientist or history buff, it's worth seeing the place where such a legendary family, with five Nobel prizes among them, conducted some of their life's work.

Explore the Rue Mouffetard and Jussieu Neighborhood

This neighborhood offers everything from vibrant market streets like Rue Mouffetard to classic old squares and pretty streets like Place de la Contrescarpe and Rue Monge. The quiet, charmingly cobbled residential streets are lined with trees and roaming with cats that lead to the magnificent botanic garden of Jardin des Plantes and an epic Natural History Museum . Take some time to stroll about, browse the bookstands, or find a cozy café to sit at for a while. After all, taking your time to dawdle in the atmosphere is the best way to see Paris.

Visit the Jardin des Plantes and the National Museum of Natural History

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer

The Jardin des Plantes is Paris' royal botanical garden, originally founded to cultivate medicinal plants under the rule of King Louis XIII in the 17th century. It was here where France's royal botanist kept their medicinal plants and where France brought new botanical specimens from all over the world, such as the coffee plant, to be studied.

With more than 60 acres, the garden boasts some of the best real estate in Paris. Sitting on the Seine's left bank, it encompasses the National Museum of Natural History , which comprises libraries, greenhouses, galleries, and the second-oldest public zoo in the world. Until the 20th century, the gardens were solely dedicated to research, but today they are open for visitors who are welcome to explore the many flourishing botanical varieties.

Browse at Shakespeare and Company Bookshop

You may have noticed that this entire district is something of a book lover's dream: From the open-air booksellers with their famed green metal stalls on the Seine to the French mega-bookstores on Place St-Michel, you'll easily find a worthwhile tome. 

But there are few places more iconic in the Latin Quarter than Shakespeare and Company, a beloved bookshop situated across the Seine and facing Notre-Dame Cathedral . Opened in 1951 by consummate Parisian beatnik George Whitman—who passed away in 2011—it's now owned by his business-savvy daughter, Sylvia.

Originally opened as "Le Mistral," this is not the original shop in Paris. George Whitman renamed it in 1964, in honor of the legendary bookshop opened by Sylvia Beach in 1919 just down the street. Under Beach's helm, the first shop was famous for hosting and publishing literary greats such as James Joyce. The more recent location is still a literary epicenter, a comforting refuge for English speakers, and it is still timeless.

Make sure to duck inside and browse both new and classic titles gracing the shop's narrow, uneven shelves and carefully curated tables. For those visiting Paris for a longer spell, the shop also regularly hosts workshops and talks with great writers. To avoid the crowds, it's best to get there early in the morning.

Soak in Medieval Art at the Musée Cluny

This humble, little-appreciated museum and former medieval residence is devoted to art, culture, and daily life from the Middle Ages. The star attraction here is no doubt "La Dame a la Licorne" (The Lady and the Unicorn), a 15th-century series of enigmatic, luminous Bayeux tapestries that mesmerizes all who come to behold them. 

There are also interesting objects from medieval daily life and an aromatic garden modeled after those from the Middle Ages. On the basement level, you will be able to see the building's Gallo-Roman foundations, which show that there once were thermal baths on the site. It's an especially cozy and inspiring thing to do in the winter when the chilly temperatures make an evening indoors an appealing prospect.

Tour the Panthéon

Erected between 1758 and 1790, this neoclassical building with its distinctive off-white dome may not be as famous or popular with tourists as Montmartre's Sacre Coeur —but it's arguably more important from a historical standpoint. Built as a church at the behest of King Louis XV, it was transformed into "a temple of the nation" in 1791 during the French Revolution. Although it would later serve its original purpose as a church, today the building stands as a mausoleum, paying tribute to the remains of great French minds, from Victor Hugo to Rousseau, Voltaire, Marie Curie, and, since 2002, Alexandre Dumas. Perched atop the knoll known as the Montagne St-Genevieve, the sweeping views from outside make for a spectacular photo opportunity on a clear day.

Contemplate Ancient History at the Arènes de Lutèce

Under the Roman Empire, Paris, then referred to as "Lutetia," was a part of French Gaul. The ruins of a 1st-century Roman arena, restored in most places, the Arènes de Lutèce are relatively lesser-known among tourists. But they make for an interesting stop after a whirl around the Rue Mouffetard area, especially for those with interests in history or archeology. Along with the thermal bath structures at Cluny, this is the French capital's most important intact Gallo-Roman site. 

Walk the Jardin du Luxembourg

Connecting the Latin Quarter with the formerly artsy St-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood , this breathtaking formal park and garden has it all: sublime statues and fountains; alleyways lined with deciduous trees that turn muted shades of red and orange in the fall, and lawns for indulgent summer picnics.

The entire area is also replete with literary and artistic history. Avant-garde writer and patron Gertrude Stein and her partner Alice B. Toklas lived behind the park on Rue de Fleurus, and luminaries such as Alexandre Dumas and Richard Wright also frequented the area. 

Play Hemingway at La Closerie des Lilas

Countless famous writers once haunted the tables at this legendary café and restaurant. Now a pretty posh affair compared to its bohemian heyday during the 1920s and 1930s—which saw patrons like Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald engage in liquor-laced arguments and debates about their craft— the Closerie is still worth a stop. As you dine on oysters, tartare beef, and Crêpe Suzette, you'll feel like you've traveled back in time to the long-lost Paris of books such as Hemingway's "A Moveable Feast."

Admire the Old Sorbonne University

The Sorbonne is a Parisian badge of pride as one of Europe's oldest colleges—it opened in 1257 as part of the medieval Université de Paris. The institution that gave the Latin Quarter its name (mostly theology students, monks, and other religious figures—who occupied the then-Christian institution—worked exclusively in Latin), the Sorbonne retains a genuine air of prestige.

To visit the hallowed walls of the old college, consider signing up for one of the Sorbonne's guided tours , which take place Monday through Friday and one Saturday a month. Available by appointment only, tours last one and a half hours and cost 15 euros a person. If you are unable to take a tour, a visit to the pretty traditional square, lined with cafés and trees, is still worth a bit of time out of your day. 

During the Middle Ages, theology students attending the Sorbonne were learning and speaking in Latin, thus giving the neighborhood its name.

The Latin Quarter is one of the top places to stay in Paris. Thanks to its central location, you're not too far from top attractions such as the Panthéon and Shakespeare and Company, and with the Sorbonne right there, you can immerse yourself in a lively nightlife scene.

Notre-Dame is located in the 4th arrondissement.

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Latin Quarter, Paris: 16 Top Attractions, Tours & Hotels

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Oct 21, 2021

Atmospheric Parisian cafés, quirky bookshops, and stylish student hangouts exemplify the Latin Quarter's special Bohemian charm. The area's vibrant and soulful ambience make it one of the most interesting quarters of Paris to explore.

The Latin Quarter dates back to the Middle Ages, when the Université de Paris was founded in the 13th century. La Sorbonne college of the Université de Paris attracted scholars from all over Europe who learned and spoke Latin, explaining the quarter's name. There are still many higher education institutions in this historic academic quarter, including La Sorbonne and the Collège de France.

Roughly bounded by Boulevard Saint-Michel, Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and the Seine River, the Latin Quarter overlaps with the city's 5th and 6th arrondissements in the Left Bank.

Most of the Latin Quarter is a medieval maze of winding, narrow streets and stone-paved alleyways, with a few quiet, hidden squares. Except for the Boulevard Saint-Michel, this quarter has a distinct old-world character.

Tourists will be rewarded by wandering and getting lost in the pedestrian lanes. Many hidden treasures are awaiting discovery, including ancient churches, picturesque riverside areas, and the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, as well as interesting locally owned boutiques and authentic French bistros.

The Latin Quarter is also appreciated for its cultural events and nightlife. The area is brimming with casual eateries, cinemas, museums, art galleries, and theaters. Favorite things to do in the area include dining on the Rue Mouffetard and shopping at the open-air bookshops along the Seine.

Learn about the best places to visit in this captivating area, with our list of the top attractions in the Latin Quarter.

1. Musée de Cluny (Musée National du Moyen-Âge)

2. panthéon, 3. eglise saint-sevérin saint-nicolas, 4. boulevard saint-michel & place saint-michel, 5. rue mouffetard restaurants, 6. atmospheric medieval alleyways & pedestrian streets, 7. bouquinistes & bookshops, 8. dining by the seine river, 9. eglise saint-étienne-du-mont, 10. place de l'odeon, 11. eglise saint-julien-le-pauvre, 12. sorbonne université, 13. jardin des plantes & musée national d'histoire naturelle, 14. arènes de lutèce, 15. grande mosquée de paris, 16. musée national eugène delacroix, map of latin quarter, paris: top attractions, tours & hotels.

Discover the beauty and depth of medieval art at the Cluny Museum. This National Museum of the Middle Ages is housed in the 15th-century Hôtel des Abbés de Cluny , formerly the Paris town house for the Benedictine abbey of Cluny based in the Burgundy region.

The building happens to lie on the excavation site of an ancient Roman bath complex . One of the museum's rooms is in the ruins of the former Frigidarium (cold baths), which now displays Roman and Gallic sculptures of the 1st century AD.

The Cluny Museum is most renowned for its collection of medieval tapestries. The oldest of the tapestries is the Flemish Offrande du Coeur , a delicate declaration of love created in the 15th century.

The museum's greatest treasure is the Lady with the Unicorn ( Dame à la Licorne ) tapestry series. Made in the 15th and early 16th century, these exquisitely detailed tapestries were created in the " millefleurs " ("thousand flowers") style of the time. Intricate patterns of flowers are interwoven among birds, rabbits, monkeys, and friendly dogs.

The series of six tapestries represents an allegory of the five senses. However, the meaning of the sixth tapestry with the inscription " À mon seul désir " ("To my sole desire") is still a mystery to scholars.

Renovations Update : The Musée de Cluny is currently closed for renovations. The museum is scheduled to reopen in early 2022.

Address: 28 Rue du Sommerard 75005, Paris (Métro Cluny-La Sorbonne, Saint-Michel, or Odéon station)

Official site: https://www.musee-moyenage.fr/en/home.html

Presiding over the Latin Quarter from its slightly elevated perch on the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève (Saint-Genevieve hilltop), the Panthéon is a mausoleum that holds the tombs of France's most prominent citizens.

Above the porch featuring Corinthian columns, an inscription reads: " Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissante ," which means "to the great men who are recognized by their country."

The celebrated architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot was commissioned by King Louis XV to build a grandiose church replacing the ruined abbey of Sainte Geneviève. Soufflot created a masterpiece of Neoclassical style, with its facade modeled after the ancient Pantheon in Rome and dome inspired by St. Paul's Cathedral in London .

The entire space of the Panthéon is devoted to remembering the accomplishments of France's most influential writers, scientists, politicians, and other historical figures. Foucault's pendulum, that proved the rotation of the earth, was demonstrated here in 1851 and still is on display. There are more than 70 illustrious men buried in the Panthéon's crypt. Among the famous names are the authors Victor Hugo and Emile Zola, as well as the philosophers Voltaire and Rousseau.

Since 1995, six of France's most esteemed female citizens have been buried in the Panthéon including Nobel Prize-winning physicist Marie Curie.

To admire views of the Paris cityscape, tourists can climb (200 steps) up to the Panthéon's dome. Open from April until October, the dome's colonnaded balcony provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramic outlooks. It's easy to spot the city's most important monuments, including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.

Address: Place du Panthéon, 75005 Paris (Métro: Luxembourg station)

The Eglise Saint-Séverin Saint-Nicolas is one of the finest examples of Flamboyant Gothic architecture in Paris. With its dark sanctuary illuminated by candles, the church has a somber and spiritual ambience.

The architecture combines various styles, with a simple nave from the 13th-century and stained-glass windows dating from the 14th and 15th centuries. Other noteworthy details of the interior include the pillars with elaborately carved capitals and fanciful keystones.

The Church of Saint-Séverin Saint-Nicolas regularly hosts classical organ recitals open to the public. Many visitors enjoy attending a concert here and find that listening to the holy music adds to the experience.

Address: 3 Rue des Prêtes-Saint-Séverin, 75005 Paris (Métro: Saint-Michel, Cluny-La Sorbonne, or Maubert-Mutualité station)

The busy main thoroughfare of Boulevard Saint-Michel and the bustling Place Saint-Michel bring modern energy to the Latin Quarter. In contrast to the narrow medieval streets that are tightly packed in most of the quarter, the Boulevard Saint-Michel is a wide modern avenue designed by Haussmann in the 19th century. The street is lined with artsy bookstores, clothing shops, busy cafés, and other student hangouts.

At the end of Boulevard Saint-Michel, a few steps away from the Seine River, is the Place Saint-Michel . This atmospheric public square is the real heart of the Latin Quarter. The square is crowded day and night with locals on the way to the Métro, students headed to class, and tourists arriving from the Métro station to explore the nearby sights.

The centerpiece of the Place Saint-Michel is the monumental Fontaine Saint-Michel . Commissioned by Haussmann under Napoleon III, this stunning fountain depicts the archangel Michael vanquishing the Devil. The allegorical image evokes the theme of good battling evil. In the local tradition, tourists may want to toss a coin into the fountain and make a wish.

Address: Boulevard Saint-Michel, 75005 Paris (Métro: Saint-Michel or Cluny-La Sorbonne)

On the gently sloping Montagne Sainte-Geneviève hill, the Rue Mouffetard is one of the oldest and most atmospheric streets in Paris. Known simply as " La Mouffe ," this narrow street is lined with historic shops, 16th to 18th-century houses, and quaint restaurants that are popular with students. The street is especially lively on weekend evenings when many street musicians come out to entertain diners.

Rue Mouffetard begins near the Panthéon and ends at the Place de la Contrescarpe , a pleasant square with many sidewalk cafés. One of Paris' most noteworthy market streets, the Rue Mouffetard is a bustling local grocery-shopping destination renowned for its selection of bakeries, cheese shops, and other specialty food stores. There are also traditional market stalls (only open in the mornings) stocked with an abundance of colorful fresh fruits and vegetables.

Getting lost in the Latin Quarter's labyrinth of stone-paved medieval streets is a must-do tourist experience. Wandering around the winding traffic-free thoroughfares offers a glimpse of what Paris was like before it was modernized by Haussmann in the 19th century.

The narrowest street is Rue du Chat Qui Pêche (Street of the Cat who Fishes), a cobblestone alleyway that runs from Rue de la Huchette to the Seine River and provides only enough space for pedestrians to walk single-file.

The Rue du Chat Qui Pêche runs into the Rue de la Huchette , a lively pedestrian-only street lined with small restaurants, take-out eateries, and ice-cream shops geared to tourists and students (but not gourmands). Taking a walk down this two-block stretch gives visitors a taste of the bustling Latin Quarter atmosphere.

On the Rue de la Huchette, the Caveau de la Huchette , appeals to jazz lovers (especially those who appreciate New Orleans jazz). Since 1947, this legendary jazz club has hosted performances by celebrated musicians. The venue continues to be a favorite spot for dancing and listening to jazz.

Other historic streets worth exploring in this area include the pedestrian-only Rue Saint-Sevérin (where the Eglise Saint-Sevérin is located), which has several quaint casual restaurants, and the Rue de la Harpe , a side street full of restaurants, many of which have sidewalk terraces for soaking up the street scene.

Riverside booksellers called Les Bouquinistes are a quintessential feature of the Latin Quarter. These open-air bookshops are found alongside the Seine, from the Quai de la Tournelle to the Quai Voltaire , and on the quays from the Pont Marie (bridge) to the Quai du Louvre . It would require a four-kilometer walk (circling the Seine) to see all the bookshops.

Les Bouquinistes comprise over 200 "book boxes" (run by independent booksellers) that are stocked with classic and modern literary works. In addition to used and new books, there are also postcards and posters for sale.

The Latin Quarter's ancient streets are also filled with many eclectic book stores including the English-language bookshop Shakespeare and Company at 37 Rue de la Bûcherie. Founded by American expatriate George Whitman in 1951, this legendary bookshop sells editions of everything from Shakespeare to James Joyce.

Shakespeare and Company is a well-known gathering place for writers and has a tradition of inviting young aspiring authors to lodge here, sleeping on cots in between the bookshelves. The shop hosts literary events such as book readings and discussions. In 2015, Shakespeare and Company opened a café next to the bookshop.

Dining at a péniche is one of the most memorable things to do in Paris. Dotted along the banks of the Seine River, péniches are charming little docked boats with inviting restaurants. These riverside barge restaurants offer a unique tourist experience that's often missed by tourists.

In the Latin Quarter at 3 Quai de Montebello, La Nouvelle Seine is an alluring péniche restaurant that offers gourmet cuisine, as well as theatrical entertainment. From the dining room, guest can admire superb views of the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

For a traditional French gastronomic experience, tourists can indulge in a meal at the Michelin-starred Tour d'Argent at 15 Quai de la Tournelle. The dining room dazzles guests with its spectacular views of the Seine River and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. This refined haute-cuisine restaurant is famous for its classic French cuisine, especially its signature roast duckling from Challans in the Loire Valley.

Address: La Nouvelle Seine, 3 Quai de Montebello; Tour d'Argent, 15 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005 Paris (Métro: Saint-Michel or Maubert-Mutualité station)

Classified as a Historical Monument, the Eglise Saint-Étienne-du-Mont was built in the 15th century from the Late Gothic period to the Renaissance. The architecture shows the evolution of styles. The nave of the church features stellar Gothic vaulting, while the round pillars were influenced by Renaissance design.

The church is famed for its rood-screen, which has a central marble section and a spiral staircase at each end. Also noteworthy are the 15th- to 16th-century stained-glass windows depicting scenes of the Apocalypse and the Parable of the Marriage Feast .

At the entrance to Our Lady Chapel are the epitaphs of the philosopher Blaise Pascal and the dramatist Jean Racine, who are buried in the church. The church is also said to contain a stone from the tomb of Saint Genevieve.

Located just steps behind the Panthéon, the Eglise Saint-Étienne-du-Mont is open for visits (free of charge) every day except Mondays. Guided tours are available. Mass is held here every day throughout the week and several times on Sundays.

Address: Place Sainte-Geneviève, 75005 Paris (Métro: Maubert-Mutualité or Cardinal Lemoine station)

The Place de l'Odeon in the 6th arrondissement is an elegant square lined by lovely old Parisian buildings. The most important monument on the square is the Neoclassical Théâtre de l'Odéon . This exquisite 18th-century venue presents classic French theater performances, such as comedies by Molière and drama by Victor Hugo, as well as contemporary theater productions.

The square is also a favorite place for locals to socialize. On warm days, students like to linger on the arcaded patio and steps of the theater.

Tourists will enjoy exploring the charming side streets around the Place de l'Odeon to discover trendy boutiques and happening restaurants. For a change of scenery just a few steps away, the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg is a perfect place to relax and enjoy a picnic lunch in the setting of a formal French garden. The closest Métro station is Odéon.

Next to the Square René Viviani park in the 5th arrondissement, the Eglise Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre is an interesting historic church built in High Gothic style between the 12th and mid-13th century.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, the Rector of the University was elected in this church, and its bell was rung to announce the beginning of lectures.

The interior of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre Church is dominated by an icon-decorated screen installed in 1901. There is a lovely perspective of the church's silhouette from a spot on Rue Galande near the Eglise Saint-Sevérin.

The Eglise Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre provides a place of worship for the local Melkite Greek Catholic religious community.

Tourists should note that the church hosts classical music concerts throughout the year.

The church is a short walk away from the Place Saint-Michel and just steps away from the Shakespeare and Company bookshop.

Address: 79 Rue Galande, 75005 Paris (Métro: Saint-Michel, Cluny-La Sorbonne, or Maubert-Mutualité station)

Known as "La Sorbonne," this ancient academic institution was founded in 1253 as a college for poor students of theology who could live and study at the school's expense. The college soon developed into a leading school of theology and during Napoleon's reign was given the status of a State university. Today, the university educates over 50,000 students every year.

Many of the Sorbonne University's lecture halls and libraries were built in the 17th century, commissioned by the Cardinal de Richelieu. The university embarked on another major building project in the 19th century, when the number of students was steadily increasing.

The entrance to the Sorbonne at 47 Rue des Ecoles, the Grand Hall features allegorical statues of Homer (representing the Arts) and Archimedes (representing the Sciences).

The main lecture hall, the Grand Amphithéâtre, has seating for 935, and above the podium is the celebrated mural by the Neoclassical painter Puvis de Chavannes, Le Bois Sacré ( The Sacred Grove ).

In the courtyard of the Sorbonne is a Baroque chapel built between 1635 and 1642 with a dome painted by Philippe de Champaigne.

Besides admiring the exterior of the Sorbonne buildings, visitors may take a guided tour to see the interior. Guided tours are offered a few times a month (two Wednesdays and one Saturday at 10:30am and 2:30pm) or by appointment for groups (on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays). Reservations plus an entrance fee are required for guided tours.

Tourists may visit the Sorbonne, free of charge, during European Heritage Days in mid-September.

Address: 47 Rue des Ecoles, 75005 Paris (Métro: Cluny-La Sorbonne or Maubert-Mutualité station)

The Jardin des Plantes is a legacy of the Royal Garden of medicinal plants kept by King Louis XIII in the 17th century. This luxuriant green space is a tranquil spot to relax and escape to nature, right in the heart of Paris.

Within the 26-hectare Jardin des Plantes are 11 distinct gardens, as well as several greenhouses. Highlights include the romantic Jardin de Roses (Rose Garden; the Jardin des Pivoines (Peony Garden); the Jardin Alpin (Alpine Garden) featuring mountain plants; and the Jardin de l'École de Botanique (Garden of the School of Botany), with an exceptional variety of flowers and plants arranged in an educational manner to help viewers understand biodiversity.

Inside the gardens is the Musée National d'Histoire Naturelle , which offers a comprehensive view of the various fields of natural history including botany (with an extensive historical collection), mineralogy (with notable giant crystals), geology, anthropology, and paleontology.

Families with young children love the Ménagerie , a zoo found within a several-hectare woodland space of the Jardin des Plantes.

The Jardin des Plantes is open to the public every day, free of charge, from 7:30am until 8pm. The Ménagerie requires an entrance fee; tickets are available online.

Address: 57 Rue Cuvier 75005 Paris (Métro: Place Monge or Jussieu station)

Official site: https://www.jardindesplantesdeparis.fr/en

Tucked away in a leafy green space near the Jardin des Plantes, the Arènes de Lutèce are the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater excavated in 1869. Wandering into this peaceful spot feels like discovering a secret treasure, which has been hidden for 2,000 years.

The Arènes de Lutèce was built around the 1st and 2nd century AD, but later during a barbarian incursion in 285, it was used as a quarry of stone for building defensive walls. Although the amphitheater had only 36 tiers of seating, it could accommodate an audience of up to 17,000, which was almost the entire population of the city during antiquity.

The ruins give an idea of the huge size of the original amphitheater, once used to stage gladiator and animal fights. The elliptical arena was 56 meters long by 48 meters across, roughly the same dimensions as the interior of the ancient Colosseum in Rome .

This amphitheater along with the Roman baths at the Musée de Cluny are the only vestiges of the ancient Roman city of Lutetia (which overlaps with today's Paris city center).

Today, locals use the Arènes de Lutèce as a park (it's surrounded by tall, leafy trees) and kids play soccer here. The site is open to the public for visits everyday (free of charge) from 8am until 6pm in the winter with later hours in the spring and summer.

Address: 49 Rue Monge, 75005 Paris (Métro: Cardinal Lemoine, Place Monge or Jussieu station)

An oasis of Islamic culture right in the Latin Quarter, the Grande Mosquée de Paris is just a few steps away from the Jardin des Plantes . A relatively recent addition to the neighborhood, the Grand Mosque of Paris was built between 1922 and 1926. The mosque is frequented by the local Muslim community but also offers tourists a unique and exotic experience.

The interior of the Grand Mosque is a stunning masterpiece of Hispano-Moorish style. The prayer hall features magnificent carpets, and the hammam replicates the baths of North Africa with colorful mosaic tile decorations. Featuring delicately adorned archways, the courtyard with its emerald-tiled adornments was inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada .

The Grand Mosque is open to the public for visits every day except Fridays and Muslim holidays. Visitors may amble through the lush fountain-adorned garden and enjoy fresh mint tea at the salon de thé (tea salon) in the garden's courtyard, or savor a delicious meal of authentic Moroccan couscous at the Mosque's restaurant , Aux Portes de l'Orient.

It is also possible to visit the hammam to soak in the traditional Turkish-style hot and cold baths or to get a pampering massage. The hammam is only open to women.

Address: Entrance to Mosque: 2 Bis Place du Puits de l'Ermite; Tea Salon and Restaurant: 39 Rue Geoffroy-Saint-Hilaire 75005 Paris (Métro: Place Monge or Censier - Daubenton station)

This excellent small museum celebrates the life and work of French Romantic painter, Eugène Delacroix. The museum is found at the border of the Latin Quarter and the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood on the handsome Place de Furstenberg, housed in the artist's former apartment. Delacroix chose this location as his residence because of its pleasant little garden, where he could build an art studio.

With a collection spanning Delacroix's career, the museum's exhibitions show the different themes that Delacroix depicted, as well as his artistic influences. The collection boasts numerous masterpieces. Highlights include the Mary Magdalene in the Desert painting exhibited at the Salon of 1845 and another religious composition titled Annonciation, painted in 1841.

Many of the other famous works by Delacroix are found in the Musée du Louvre across the Seine River in the 1st arrondissement.

Throughout the year, the Musée National Eugène Delacroix hosts exhibitions such as thematic assortments of paintings by Delacroix or on different aspects of the artist's persona and his creative process. The museum also suggests walking tours in Paris that allow visitors to discover more about the life and work of Eugène Delacroix.

Address: 6 Rue de Furstenberg, 75006 Paris (Métro: Saint-Germain-des-Prés or Mabillon station)

Official site: http://www.musee-delacroix.fr/en

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Must-See Landmarks Nearby : At the heart of Paris , the Latin Quarter is within walking distance of many must-see landmarks such as the fashionable Boulevard Saint-Germain-des-Prés with its legendary cafés and the glorious Notre-Dame Cathedral on the Île-de-la-Cité. Other amazing historic Paris churches are nearby: Saint-Chapelle also on the Île-de-la-Cité, the Eglise Saint-Louis en l'Île on the Île Saint-Louis, and the Eglise Saint-Sulpice in the 6th arrondissement.

Museums near the Latin Quarter : To admire masterpieces of fine art, tourists need only take a short stroll across the Seine River where the Musée du Louvre displays a world-renowned collection. Other top museums in Paris are the Musée d'Orsay in the 7th arrondissement, a veritable temple of Impressionist art filled with gorgeous paintings by Monet, Renoir, Degas, Pissarro, and Cézanne; and steps away from the Musée d'Orsay in the 7th, the Musée Rodin with its wonderful tree-shaded sculpture garden.

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Home > Best Things to Do in the Latin Quarter, Paris

Best Things to Do in the Latin Quarter, Paris

The renowned Latin Quarter is located on the Left Bank of the Seine River, in the 5th district of Paris . The Latin Quarter is one of the must-visit neighborhoods in Paris , a lively place with a dynamic ambiance and an exciting history that goes back to Roman times. It is also home to fascinating buildings , prestigious learning centers like La Sorbonne and Le Collège de France, as well as booksellers, independent cinemas, and lovely cafés.

Furthermore, the Latin Quarter was fortunate enough to be spared from Baron Haussmann’s major works, so it has an antique feel throughout the city and maintains a top position on the list of best districts to stay in Paris for visitors.

Latin Quarter Practical Information

How to get to the latin quarter in paris.

You can reach the Latin Quarter with metro line 4 ( St Michel-Notre Dame, Odéon ), line 10 ( Cardinal Lemoine, Maubert-Mutualité, Jussieu ), and line 7 ( Place Monge, Jussieu, Cesier-Daubeuton ). The RER trains B and C also have a stop in the Latin Quarter Paris ( Saint-Michel Notre Dame ).

Where to Eat & Sleep in the Latin Quarter?

What to Do in the Latin Quarter, Paris

If you plan to visit this neighborhood during your next trip to Paris, here’s the list of the best things to do in the Latin Quarter.

1. Take a Latin Quarter Walking Tour

This Latin Quarter walking tour with an expert guide is an excellent introduction to this neighborhood. Visit the main landmarks in the area and listen to the history of one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris and the artistic geniuses it inspired. If you prefer to arrange a tour for you and your tribe, this private Latin Quarter walking tour also has excellent reviews.

2. Visit the Panthéon of Paris

This stunning Paris landmark built in neoclassic style serves as both a memorial and a tomb to France’s finest men and women. Originally erected as a church in 1758, the Panthéon of Paris was turned into a “monument to the heroes of France” after the French Revolution.

The Panthéon’s exterior was designed after the Pantheon in Rome. It’s worth visiting inside to see the tombs of its eternal guests and learn more about their histories and main achievements. Hanging from the cupola, there’s a replica of the famous pendulum that Léon Foucault used to demonstrate the Earth’s rotation.

The Panthéon is excellently located on Montagne Sainte-Genevieve, considered the center of Roman Paris. If you decide to climb up to the cupola (April to October), you will be rewarded with one of the best views of Paris – Click here to buy your tickets to the Panthéon

TIP: The Paris Museum Pass for 2, 4, or 6 days includes the entrance to the Panthéon of Paris

3. Explore the Jardin des Plantes

Formerly known as Le Jardin du Roi (King’s Garden), the Jardin des Plantes is the main botanical garden in France and one of the main things to see in the Latin Quarter. It was founded in the 17th century by King Louis XIII as a garden to grow medicinal plants, and for many years, it was used to lecture future physicists and pharmacists.

Today, the Jardin des Plantes is considered one of the best gardens in Paris, together with the Tuileries Garden and the Luxembourg Gardens. In addition to its stunning collection of plants, flowers, and trees, there are several galleries, two greenhouses with exotic plants, a zoo, and a small carousel, so it’s the kind of place that can keep you busy all day.

The Jardin des Plantes is beautiful to see under all the seasons. In spring, it is the place where you can see the most beautiful cherry blossoms in Paris .

4. Visit the Musée de Cluny – National Museum of Middle Ages

This modest, sometimes underrated museum and former medieval home is dedicated to art, culture, and daily life in Paris in Medieval times . After years of renovation work, the Musée de Cluny reopened recently.

The main attraction here is, without a doubt, “La Dame a la Licorne,” a 15th-century collection of cryptic, dazzling tapestries that enchant those who see them. There are other intriguing artifacts from everyday medieval life, an aromatic garden outside that is styled like those seen in the Middle Ages, and a basement level that shows the stunning remains of one of the thermal baths in Roman Paris – Click here to buy your tickets to the Musée Cluny

TIP: don’t miss the statue of Montaigne , on the square just in front of the museum entrance, and the history behind it!

5. Picnic and Pétanque at the Arènes de Lutèce

The Arènes de Lutèce is the oldest building in Paris and a must-visit of the Latin Quarter if you wish to mix history with relaxation in a beautiful natural setting. This former amphitheater of Roman Paris was built during the 1st century AD and it was used for theatre plays, circus games, and other events.

Access to this unique place is free, and it is open from sunrise to sunset. Despite limited grass, it’s an excellent place to rest outside. The attractive, historical environment full of flowers can complement an improvised picnic.

The Arènes de Lutèce is one of the usual spots for pétanque players. Just like in Roman times, you can sit on the theatre’s steps and watch them play!

6. Take the Batobus (Seine’s Hop on Hop off Boat Cruise)

See the highlights of the city on one of the most leisurely Seine cruises in Paris . The Batobus is the only Paris hop-on hop-off that navigates the Seine River, and it has one of its stops in the Latin Quarter.

Instead of taking the subway or walking, this boat ride provides stunning views of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed riverbanks as well as the option to get off anytime you choose. Glide under the city’s gorgeous bridges and through its fine architecture, and jump on and off the riverboat to view sites such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum (9 stops available) when you want.

There are two stops to board on it in the Latin Quarter at Quai de Montebello (in front of Notre Dame) and Quai Saint-Bernard (in front of the Jardin des Plantes) – Click here to buy your tickets to the Batobus

7. Have a Break at Square Viviani

The Square René-Viviani is undoubtedly one of Paris’ most unique gardens. Discover a lush setting rich with historical relics and open onto Notre Dame in this garden set by the Seine riverbanks.

This small square is located atop the former cemetery of the Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre Church . Built in Romanesque style during the 12th-13th centuries on the site of a 5th-century chapel, Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre is the oldest church in Paris. Dedicated to the Melchite Greek Catholic worship since 1889, services are celebrated in Greek and Arabic.

Square René-Viviani even contains the oldest tree in Paris! This locust or false acacia was planted in 1601 by Jean Robin, arborist to King Henri IV and director of the Jardin des Plantes.

This square is ideal for a short break during your Paris sightseeing. If you visit Paris in December, it holds one of the best Christmas Markets in Paris .

8. Visit the Sorbonne (from Outside)

La Sorbonne is Paris’s oldest university and one world’s of the most well-known institutions of higher learning. Founded in 1257, La Sorbonne is today a collection of thirteen independent institutions. The building in the picture corresponds to the Sorbonne Chapel on Rue Victor Cousin, which was rebuilt in the 17th century by Cardinal Richelieu.

Those who aren’t students or intellectuals of the Sorbonne may appreciate the impressive buildings along the Boulevard Saint-Michel or relax with a glass of wine at one of the sidewalk cafés popular by students and teachers.

9. French Apéritif at Place de la Contrescarpe

Place de la Contrescarpe is one of the liveliest corners in the Latin Quarter in Paris. It is located along Rue Mouffetard, near the intersection of Rue Lacépède and Rue du Cardinal-Lemoine.

Place de la Contrescarpe is arguably best known as one of the favorite places of Hemingway in Paris . Indeed, throughout the 1920s, the American writer stayed on 74 Rue du Cardinal-Lemoine, not far from the square.

Several pubs and restaurants around offer good affordable cuisine for locals and visitors. They are also great places for a French apéritif and people-watching.

10. Mint Tea and delicious cakes at Café de la Mosquée de Paris

La Mosquée de Paris is the main site of worship for Muslims in Paris. The complex includes a secluded garden, a hammam or Arabic baths, and a café.

The mosque’s café is a lovely place for mint tea and some traditional pastries. Its décor is spectacular: copper-plated tables, mosaics, ornate ceilings, carved arches, oriental couches, and colored geometrical patterns transport you to exotic North Africa. It also has a gorgeous patio, which is an excellent spot to unwind.

11. A night of Champagne and French Cancan at the Paradis Latin

The Paradis Latin is an institution in Paris. Designed by architect Gustave Eiffel himself, the iconic Parisian cabaret on the Seine’s Right Bank recently celebrated 130 years of entertainment.

A fantastic combination of musical comedy, magnificent French can-can , and modern dances, it ensures a spectacular evening at the most Parisian of the great cabarets . Expect a memorable soirée in Paris, which you can combine with dinner or a glass of champagne.

Enter an extravagant world of color and beauty; there’s nothing more Parisian than the Paradis Latin cabaret show ! The show features gravity-defying scenography and aerial attractions, skilled dances mixed with delicate seduction, and one astonishing grand finale – Click here to buy your tickets to the Paradis Latin

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

Latin Quarter in Paris: What to see, do and eat

• Post category: Paris & Île-de-France
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

The Latin Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, France, dating back to Gallo-Roman era. It is home to the city’s La Sorbonne University which gave it its nickname. Students came here to study Latin, their conversations in the language echoing in the narrow streets.

The area also holds some remarkable landmarks and continues to have a rich literary and thriving social scene.

Today, it is occupies a large portion in 5th arrondissemen t along with a portion of the 6th . It is still somewhat a student area, with many student bars and restaurants.

Don’t be fooled though, the area is quite familial with many bourgeois Parisians also making their home here. It is quite a sought ofter area for locals and tourists, with prices in the area reflecting that.

So let’s have a look at the top things to see and do in the Latin Quarter, shall we?

10. Jardin des Plantes

History of the latin quarter.

Located just off of Ile de la Cité , the area used to be outside the initial city walls. It was nonetheless populated, with both the Gauls and the Romans have settled in the area.

If you wander around the Latin Quarter, you can still see among the Roman ruins , the ancient city walls and the Arènes de Lutèce . At the time, the Romans had changed the name of Paris to Lutetia, from the Gaulish name Parisii .

With the entrance located at 49 Rue Monge, these are among the most important ancient Roman remains from the era in Paris.

About a 10-minute walk away is the Thermes de Cluny, the ancient thermal spa of the Romans. After the Romans left, the walls of Paris gradually expanded.

Christianity came to France, and the area became known for several devout converts to the new religion, who were later sanctified. In the Middle ages, a new school for the clergy called La Sorbonne opened in the area, and since Latin was the language of the well-educated, the neighbourhood got a new name: the Latin Quarter.

Top Attractions in the area

1. panthéon.

Originally intended to be a church, the Pantheon is where France’s national heroes and legendary figures are buried.

Like its much older counterpart in Rome, Italy, it celebrates famous French names like Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie , becoming a mausoleum and a monument to much of French history and culture .

Inside are several statues, paintings, and symbols dedicated to French ideals of the République . Right in the center of the Panthéon is French physicist Léon Foucault’s pendulum, demonstrating the rotation of the Earth.

In addition, several people like Voltaire, Emile Zola and Jean Jaures are buried at the Panthéon. It is open everyday to visitors, and you can purchase your skip-the-line tickets here.

2. Saint-Étienne-du-Mont church

The Panthéon in Paris was originally intended to be a temple dedicated to Saint Genevieve who lived in the 5th century, at the time of the Roman Empire. The Roman empire was gradually decreasing in influence due to the increasing Frankish invasions (a Germanic tribe) .

Genevieve was an ordinary woman from Nanterre who saw God and became a nun at 15. She would slowly become renowned for her piety and her visions, and become the patron saint of Paris .

In 451 AD, Paris was threatened by the army of Attila the Hun, which had pillaged Treves, Metz and Reims. Parisians were planning to abandon the city, but they were persuaded to resist by Geneviève who led a prayer-marathon to divert the Hun army.

While the Pantheon ended up being converted into a tribute for the great thinkers , visionaries, and writers of France, the Saint-Étienne-du-Mont church remains dedicated to her, next to the Pantheon.

The church contains fragments of her tomb, as well as the tombs of  inventor Blaise Pascal  and  revolutionary Jean-Paul Marat amongst others.

3. La Sorbonne

The Latin quarter was named as such because of the large amounts of students who congregated in the area, learning and speaking Latin. They were attending one of the top universities in Europe, La Sorbonne.

The school was founded in 1253 by Pierre de Sorbon, chaplain to Saint King Louis. It was originally a theological college for poorer students. It then integrated into the University of Paris, where the arts, law and medicine were taught. The name “Sorbonne” was so prestigious that its name was used to designate the entire University.

The impressive domed building dates back to the 17th century which was constructed under the orders of Cardinal Richelieu (of Alexandre Dumas’s 3 Musketeers ‘ fame.)

Richelieu attended the university in his youth, and asked to be buried in the Sorbonne chapel (known as Chapel of Sainte Ursule de la Sorbonne ).

4. Cluny Museum

Musée de Cluny is an abbey that was partially constructed on the remnants of the third century Gallo-Roman baths known as the Thermes de Cluny, Roman era.

Today the museum houses an extensive collection of medieval art in a 15th-century abbey. One of the most well-known of its displays are the six tapestries of  The Lady and the Unicorn  ( La Dame à la licorne ).

It also holds the original statues of Kings that were on the front of Notre Dame de Paris , before they were cut down during the French Revolution . You can buy tickets for the museum here.

5. Rue Saint-André des Arts and Rue de la Huchette

When exploring the Latin Quarter, you will come upon some of the oldest streets in Paris.

Rue Saint-André des Arts lies on what was the western axis of the ancient Roman Lutetia, as Paris was called at the time. Today it is a charmingly narrow street that has been pedestrianized with small shops and restaurants lining its way.

The nearby Rue de la Huchette is newer, dating back to the middle ages when it was famous for for its inns and its cabarets. These days it is lined with restaurants and a couple of small theatres, keeping that theatrical tradition.

6. Ecole Henri IV and Louis le Grand

In the heart of the Latin Quarter and the 5th arrondissement sits two of the most famous schools in France , the Ecole Henri IV and Louis le Grand.

Ecole Louis le Grand was founded in the early 1560s by the Jesuits as the  Collège de Clermont , was renamed in 1682 for the Sun King Louis XIV during Louis’s reign.

Ecole Henri IV was founded in the early 1796 after the French revolution , and was named King Henri IV in 1815. It is located on Rue Clovis , a street named after the 1st King of the Franks .

After the revolution, names of royalty were not popular. Both schools changed names several times, before finally being restored. Today they remain two best high schools in the country, offering scholarships and taking the best students from all across France.

7. Fontaine Saint-Michel

The impressive Fontaine Saint-Michel is located within footsteps of the Notre Dame Cathedral at the corner of Boulevard Saint-Michel that leads into the Latin Quarter.

It was built during Baron Haussmann’s reimagining of Paris in the 19th century , when much of the old medieval buildings were knocked down to make way for the new style of architecture known as the Hausmannien .

The fountain features the Archangel Michel wrestling with the devil, with two dragons at his feet (sometimes) spraying water.

8. Église Saint-Séverin

The Roman Catholic Eglise Saint-Séverin was constructed in the 1230, and rebuilt after a fire and enlarged in the 15th-17th centuries. It is a gothic style church that was meant to be the local paris church for those attending Sorbonne-University of Paris in the middle ages.

It is one of the oldest churches in Paris , and is named after Saint Séverin of Paris, a devout hermit who lived there in the 6th century.

9. Shakespeare & Co’s

The world famous Shakespeare & Co’s bookstore near the banks of the Seine river is located on the edge of the Latin Quarter. Founded in 1951, the shop was named after an earlier bookstore owned by American author Sylvia Beach that she founded in 1919 at a nearby location.

The shop is renowned for its classic new and used books in English and other languages, making a treasure trove for booklovers. The shop is open everyday and located at 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris.

On the edge of the Latin Quarter is a large botanical garden, which also features 4 large galleries holding specimens of all types of animals.

With everything from large dinosaur bones to whale skeletons and stuffed lions, there is plenty to see for kids and adults alike.

The 4 galleries include:

• Grande galerie de l’Évolution (‘Gallery of Evolution’) which includes over 1000 species of animals big and small.
• Galerie de Paléontologie et d’Anatomie comparée (‘Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy’) displaying over 650 dinosaur remains.
• Galerie de Minéralogie et de Géologie (‘Gallery of Mineralogy and Geology’) displaying minerals, crystals and other rock formations.
• Galerie de Botanique (‘Gallery of Botany’) with a collection of almost 8 million samples of plants.

You can read more about visiting Jardin des Plantes here. Tickets to each galerie are sold separately, so book them all in advance.

Shopping on Rue Mouffetard and Place Contrescape

One of the most charming areas in Paris has to be Marché Mouffetard, located in the heart of the Latin Quarter. This market is located a short distance from the Place de la Monge along the historic and narrow Rue Mouffetard, which leads to Place Contrescape.

Even on days when there is no street market , locals and tourists from around the world visit this bustling pedestrianized area.

There is a bit of everything, from fruit and vegetable, cheeses , charcuterie , pâtés , seafood, pastries , cakes , and other sweets . If you are looking for organic products and souvenirs , you will easily find those here as well.

There are certain tips to visiting markets in France, such as not to touch the produce, and what to bring with you , which you can read here. Marché Mouffetard is open everyday except Mondays, from 8am to 1pm, while the shops on Rue Mouffetard are open everyday.

What to eat: Restaurants, Brasseries, and Bistros

Place Contrescape has several restaurants with terrasses where you can begin your night with an apéro , and then move on from there. Some local favorites in around the 5th are:

• Les Papilles – traditional French fare at 30 Rue Gay-Lussac, 75005 Paris
• Alliance – creative twist on French dishes at 5 Rue de Poissy, 75005 Paris
• Hebe – seasonal dishes at 15 Rue Frédéric Sauton, 75005 Paris

You can find more ideas and ways of spending an evening in Paris here.

Bars and Nightlife

With several universities in the Latin Quarter like La Sorbonne and Jussieu, there are several student pubs and bars on Rue Mouffetard and around.

However, given that the 5th arrondissement is quite an expensive area in Paris, there are several bars and restaurants for “grownups” as well.

• Le 1802 du Monte Cristo (upscale rhum bar in Hotel Monte Cristo) – 22 Rue Pascal, 75005 Paris
• Le Piano Vache (a cheap rock bar) – 8 Rue Laplace, 75005 Paris
• Le Violin Dingue (cheap student bar) – 46 Rue de la Montagne Sainte Geneviève, 75005 Paris
• Pub Saint Hilaire (classic pub) – 2 rue Valette, 75005 Paris

You can find more bars and nightlife options around Paris here.

Where to stay: Hotels and other accommodation

A lively area with all the charm of historical Paris , you cannot go wrong staying in the Latin Quarter. There are no 5-star hotels in the 5th, but some other recommended hotels in the area are:

• €€€ – Hotel De Suez
• €€€ – Hotel du College de France
• €€€€ – Hotel Le Notre Dame Saint Michel
• €€€€ – Residence Henri IV

You can find more accommodation options for the Latin Quarter here.

If you enjoyed that article, you may like to read more about the nearby 6th , 13th , and 14th arrondissements . A bientôt!

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Top Attractions & Things To Do In Paris’ Latin Quarter

If you only walk down Rue de la Huchette, you may run screaming from Paris’ Latin Quarter. That street is just so gaudy and jammed jowl to jowl with tourists.

But the Latin Quarter isn’t just one touristy street. It’s eminently friendly and likable, if you know where to look.

Its likability doesn’t emanate from the faux Greek taverns or tacky souvenir stands in an isolated corner. No, the storied Latin Quarter is the lively heart and soul of the Left Bank.

It’s a tangle of medieval narrow streets with soulful asymmetrical architecture that seems alive. The Latin Quarter is anti-Haussmann blandness, a rare place in Paris where medieval meets modern.

The Latin Quarter is home to countless museums, gorgeous churches, storied cafes, and other historical curiosities. It’s also the hub of academic life in Paris, home to the world famous Sorbonne and the École des Beaux-Arts.

In this guide to the Latin Quarter, you’ll discover the 20+ top must visit attractions, historic landmarks, and secret hidden gems.

Snapshot Glance Of Things To Do In The Latin Quarter

• Saint-Severin
• Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre
• College des Bernardines
• Cluny Museum
• Saint-Etienne-du-Mont
• Biblioteque Saint-Genevieve
• Luxembourg Gardens
• Arenes de Lutece
• Dali Sundial
• Curie Museum
• Delacroix Museum
• Place de la Contrescarpe
• Convent de Corderlieres
• Shakespeare & Co Bookstore
• Statue of Danton
• Odette Pastry Shop
• Grand Mosque
• Institue du Monde Arab
• Jardin des Plantes

You may want to check out some tour options:

• hidden gems bike tour
• 2.5 hour walking tour
• 3 hour private walking tour
• wine & walking tour
• writers of the Left Bank tour

Where is it? Situated on the Left Bank of the Seine River, the Latin Quarter lies in the 5th arrondissement and a small chunk of the 6th arrondissement.

Mini History of the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is ancient. It’s been around for 2,000 years and was first inhabited by the Romans. Its name derives from the fact that, until the 16th century, Latin was the language of the educated elite and all that was spoken there.

Much of the district was renovated in the 19th century. But there are still pre-Haussmann vestiges to be spotted. 

There’s a serious cafe culture in the Left Bank, which took off in the early 1900s. Free thinkers hung out there, enjoying the area’s creative freedom.

The Latin Quarter helped usher in the Age of Enlightenment and was the center of bohemianism. During this time, every idea was scrutinized; nothing was sacred. Even the notion of royalty was questioned.

Pre-revolutionary France was governed by the wealthy. But the gap between the classes became increasingly glaring. Even Louis XIV predicted future societal issues, intoning rather pedantically, “Apres moi, la deluge,” or “after me, the flood.”

The French revolutionaries met in cafes in the Latin Quarter, like Le Precope. Robspierere, Marat, and Danton debated ideas and plotted rebellion in Revolutionary era Paris.

The rebellious culture still permeates the Latin Quarter. In 1968, the entire month of May was filled with student riots. They demonstrated against the strictures of a patriarchal society and the Vietnam War.

Top Attractions In Paris’ Latin Quarter

1. saint-severin church.

Set on a charming square in the Latin Quarter, Saint-Séverin is one of Paris’ most beautiful churches . It’s a quirky ancient church, dating from the 6th century.

Saint-Séverin Church, dating back to the 13th century, got its name from a devoted hermit. It blends early Gothic and Flamboyant Gothic styles, once serving as the main church of the Left Bank.

It faced fire damage during the 100 Years War. But the church was restored and is now free to visit, featuring striking gargoyles and stunning stained glass.

Inside, you’ll find unique stone pillars that arch like palm trees, with the most exquisite group in the apse. This historic church also inspired French artist Robert Delaunay, who painted its grand interior.

2. Saint-Julien-le Pauvre

Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre is reputedly the oldest church in Paris (though St. Germain des Pres also vies for that honorific). “Pauvre” means poor and the church earns its name.

The ancient church is small, with no transept or steeples. It was a refuge for pilgrims and travelers.

The stout church was demolished during the Norman invasion. But it was rebuilt in the 12th century by Benedictine monks. Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre stands in the shadow of Paris’ oldest tree, an Acadia planted in 1601.

Plain and simple, the church’s nave is austerely elegant. The choir pillars are decorated, like other Paris churches, with foliage and figures of harpies.

Many concerts take place in this modest church. Right now, the facade is undergoing restoration.

READ : The Best 15 Churches in Paris

3. Pantheon, the Academy of the Dead

The Pantheon is an iconic Latin Quarter attraction was built after a king’s near death experience It celebrates the greatest dead heros of France.

The Paris Pantheon was modeled, rather obviously, on the Roman Pantheon . With its doughty 272 foot dome, it also resembles St. Paul’s Cathedral in London .

While the exterior is Romanesque, the gigantic interior resembles a Gothic cathedral in Neoclassical from.

Its grandiose space features a vast, soaring dome that stretches overhead, allowing natural light to filter through an oculus at its apex.

The walls are adorned with impressive frescoes and murals, depicting significant historical and allegorical scenes. They honor the rulers and religious leaders of France, telling the tempestuous history of France in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Numerous sculptures and ornate details adorn the niches and columns throughout the vast interior.

The Panthéon serves as a mausoleum for notable French figures, and visitors can also marvel at the final resting places of luminaries like Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie.

In 2020, six stunning art works by the artist Anselm Kiefer were installed.

Commissioned by Emmanuel Macron, the permanent exhibition honors writer Maurice Genevoix’s entry into the Pantheon. Genevoix is the famous author of  Ceux de 14 , which describes the horrors of World War I.

For more details, read my guide to the Pantheon . In high season, you’ll want to book a skip the line ticket . The Pantheon is also included in the Paris Museum Pass .

4. Sorbonne University

Paris is home to myriad prestigious universities. None is as famous as the Sorbonne University.

The Sorbonne has a storied history. It was founded 1260 by Robert de Sorbon, a 13th century French theologian.

In the middle ages, in conservative and philistine fashion, the Sorbonne stood against the Knights Templars, Protestantism, and Enlightenment philosophy. It even sent its most eminent bishop to preside over the trial of Joan of Arc.

The Sorbonne’s most famous leader and philosopher was the scheming Cardinal Richelieu. He was Louis XIII’s chief minister and an ardent Catholic.

Richelieu presided over the construction of the Sorbonne chapel in 1635, where he is now buried. Under Richelieu, the Sorbonne primarily taught theology.

During the French Revolution, religion was squashed and the Sorbonne was temporarily shuttered. Apres la deluge, things returned to normal and esteemed professors arrived for duty.

But the medieval buildings vanished. They were succeeded by Baroque buildings, finally finished in 1883.

The modern day Sorbonne is a massive place, with a plethora of lecture rooms, seminar rooms, examination halls, etc. It has 54,000 students.

5. College des Bernardines, a Rare Medieval Building in Paris

Tucked away on a little side street on Rue de Poissy, lies the the 13th century Collège des Bernardins. The abbey was built in the 13th century by Bishop Clairvaux. It served as the former residence of Cistercian Monks, who trained there for centuries until the French Revolution.

It’s a beautiful old medieval building, both inside and outside. The vaulted ceilings of what was the college refectory (dining room) are stunning. The space is approximately 1,000 square meters with 32 pillars.

In 2004-08, the college became the last medieval building to be renovated in Paris. Now, it’s used as a cultural and spiritual center, with an auditorium seating 200.

Tip : Visitors can take a tour at 4:00 pm each day.

6. Cluny Museum, National Museum of the Middle Ages

The Cluny Museum is truly one of the best museums in the Paris . It’s housed in the fully renovated Hotel de Cluny, a rare example of civic architecture in a Flamboyant Gothic style.

The museum is adjacent to an extant “frigidarium” (cold room) of a Roman bath house. The bath is the oldest preserved site in Paris.

Since 2018, the museum’s has a new entrance on Boulevard Saint Michel. It’s made of clad aluminum and striking metallic mesh, but somehow still seems to look Roman.

This museum is dedicated to all things from the Middle Ages. The Cluny’s pièce de résistance is the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. It’s considered the Mona Lisa of tapestries and is one of the greatest surviving medieval relics.

Other Cluny highlights include the stained glass gallery, the corridor of tombstones, the Roman baths, the Gothic rooms, and the Notre Dame gallery.

In the Notre Dame gallery, you’ll find 21 stone heads of the kings of Judea and Israel. The full length statues originally decorated Notre Dame’s western facade.

Here’s my complete guide to the Cluny Museum .

Tickets are 12 euros (free for under 18s) and you can buy tickets online  here . You also have free entry to the museum with the  Paris Museum Pass .

7. Saint-Etienne-du-Mont Church

Saint-Étienne-du-Mont is where Saint Genevieve, Paris’ patron saint, is buried. The church’s exterior has an unusual design with a tall belfry on one side, originally part of an abbey founded by King Clovis.

During the French Revolution, the abbey was mostly destroyed, except for the Clovis Tower, visible from the church. The church itself survived and was later restored.

Inside, you’ll find a unique rood screen separating the chancel and nave, flanked by distinctive spiral staircases – the only one of its kind in Paris. The stained glass dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries.

Saint-Étienne-du-Mont’s steps were featured in the film Midnight in Paris , launching the movie’s fantasy element.

8. Bibliotheque Sainte-Genevieve

Just across from the Pantheon is the Bibliotheque Sainte-Genevieve . It was the only great monastic library that survived the French Revolution.

It has a fine collection of medieval manuscripts and a beautiful reading room with iron trusses supporting an arched roof.

You can visit for free Monday to Saturday from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm. You can see the frescoed entrance vestibule, the staircase of honor, the cabinet of curiosities, and have a peak at the reading room.

9. Luxembourg Gardens: A Leafy Pantheon

Luxembourg Gardens is one of Paris’ ever-so-pretty green spots, full of architectural delights. It’s essentially an outdoor sculpture museum.

Dating from 1612, the sun-speckled gardens feature heavily in Victor Hugo ‘s romantic novel Les Miserables . They were frequented by the real life philosophers Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.

Marie de Medici, Henry IV’s widow, commissioned the Luxembourg gardens in the 1630. They were styled to emulate the Boboli Garden of the Pitti Palace in Florence .

The crowning glory is the incredibly romantic Medici Fountain. It’s a grotto-like monument designed to emulate water seeping from the stones.

You’ll also see sculptures and busts of Eugene Delacroix, George Sand, Stendahl, and Beethoven.

To see it all, you can book a  2 hour tour of the gardens .

Tip : During the summer months, you can rent miniature sailboats and sail them across the Luxembourg’s central fountain feature.

10. Arènes de Lutèce: Roman Paris

The Arenes de Lutece is another wonderful attraction in the Latin Quarter. Lutetia or Lutece was one of Paris’ first official names. It used during the Gallo-Roman period.

Built around 200 A.D., it was one of the largest Roman amphitheaters in Roman Gaul, though not as large as the ones you’ll find in southern France . The Arena seated around 15,000.

Over the centuries, it was buried under expansion detritus and used as a graveyard. In 1869, the arena was re-discovered during the Haussmann construction of Rue Monge. As with Notre Dame Cathedral, a group led by Victor Hugo rescued Arenes de Lutece from the city planner’s wrecking ball.

Today, little remains of the original grand amphitheater. What you see is only 1/3 of its original size. The arena is mostly used by teenagers playing soccer.

11. The Salvador Dali Sundial

I confess I have a soft spot for Salvador Dali . Though he made his name as an eccentric showman, the man could flat out draw. When he arrived in Paris in 1926, he joined the Surrealist movement.

On Rue Saint-Jacques, you’ll find a unique piece of his street art — a Salvador Dali sundial. It depicts the head of a woman in the shape of a shell.

There’s also a small Espace Dali museum in Montmartre. And the massive “Shh!” mural near the Pompidou Center.

If you’re interested in Paris street art (a massive subject on its own), you can also find some works of Banksy in the Latin Quarter.

12. Curie Museum: Get Your Geek On

The Curie Museum celebrates the life of scientist Marie Curie — what a woman! It’s located near the Pantheon in the 5th arrondissement.

Curie was the first woman to receive a Nobel Prize. And she’s the only person in history to have won a Nobel Prize in two different scientific fields, physics and chemistry, in 1903 and 1911.

The permanent exhibition of her eponymous museum traces the history of radioactivity and its medical applications. It also gives you an overview of the lives and works of Curie, her husband Pierre, and their children, Irene and Frederi.

The Curies are dubbed “the family of 5 Nobel prizes.” The museum got a facelift in 2012, courtesy of Curie’s daughter.

You’ll find a chemistry laboratory that houses laboratory notes and scientific instruments from 1930. I especially loved Curie’s small office where she spent most of her time.

13. Musée National Eugène Delacroix

Bordering the Latin Quarter and the tonier Saint-Germain-des-Pres neighborhood is the Eugene Delacroix Museum , on the gorgeous Place de Furstenberg.

This is an eccentric little gem of museum. It’s off the beaten track gem that’s one of the best things to do in the Latin Quarter for art lovers. When I last visited, it was nearly empty.

It has an intimate setting, housed in Delacroix’s final apartment and studio before his death in 1863.

Delacroix is known as the founder of the Romantic Period of painting. You won’t see anything as stunning as Delacroix’s famous Liberty Leading the People (that draws massive crowds at the Louvre ) at his studio.

What you’ll find is lush religious and historical paintings and drawings by Delacroix and others, as well as personal objects and mementos.

Delacroix had an obsession with large cats, and you’ll see some of those paintings too.

14. Place de la Contrescarpe & Rue Mouffetard

Just down the hill form the Pantheon is the Place de la Contrescarpe. It’s a lively square, flanked by cafes and restaurants far removed from Paris grand boulevards. A flowing fountain sits in the center amid lush trees.

In the summer, musicians play music. The square is located along the vibrant Rue Mouffetard, one of Paris’ oldest streets with haphazard crooked cobblestones and food stalls. In another life, it was the main road of Roman Lutecia.

Place de la Contrescarpe is perhaps most famous as the setting for the opening scene of Ernest Hemingway’s famous novel, A Moveable Feast . In the 1920s, Hemingway took up residence at 74 rue du Cardinal-Lemoine.

Though the area is now quite gentrified, then it was a working class neighborhood of craftsman. And it doesn’t seem entirely refined now, which lends to its traditional charm.

Hemingway romanticized his “poor but happy life” in the district. He famously penned the phrase: “If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.”

Hemingway wasn’t the only expatriate luminary living there.

Victor Hugo set scenes from Les Miserables there. George Orwell was there, writing Down and Out in Paris and London .

James Joyce completed Ulysses there. Julia Child loved the market on Rue Mouffetard. The film about her life, Julia and Julia starring Meryl Streep, shows her shopping there.

15. Remains of the Convent des Cordelieres

Continuing along Rue Moufftard, you will come across the remains of the Convent des Cordelieres.

It was founded in the 16th century and belonged to the Franciscan order of the Poor Clares, an order of nuns. The convent gained historical significance due to its association with notable figures such as Marguerite de Navarre, the sister of King Francis I, who resided there.

It’s also known for being the place where the philosopher and theologian Pierre Abélard sought refuge in the 12th century after his controversial relationship with Héloïse d’Argenteuil.

The vestiges of the convent stand in the garden of the present day Broca Hospital.

16. Shakespeare & Company & Abbey Bookstore

Facing the Seine, Shakesapeare and Company is the most famous English language bookstore in Paris. It’s always a fun spot to visit and one of the most popular things to do in the Latin Quarter. You’ll likely encounter a line to get in.

You can browse for books. Upstairs is a reading room and library with comfy nooks to curl up with a good book.

There’s a cafe right next door, owned by the bookstore, should you need a coffee or pastry.

Located in the Hotel Dubuisson, the Abbey Bookstore is another charming anglophone bookstore. It sells new, vintage, and rare books, lovingly offered up in massive floor to ceiling piles.

The bookstore also serves up coffee and the delicious smell wafts among the books.

You’ll find the Abbey Bookstore on Rue de la Parcheminerie, a tiny lane dating back to the 13th century.

17. Statue of Danton, Giant of the French Revolution

I love this statue of the French Revolutionary Georges-Jacques Danton. The expressive piece seems to capture the very essence of the larger than life figure.

It exudes the revolutionary fervor of the time, when political convulsion gripped France and then reverberated around the world.

Danton was one of the driving forces of the French Revolution, which put an end to monarchs raising their bejeweled fingers in command. Danton was an orator whose impassioned speeches drove reformers to take action.

Unfortunately, the revolution quickly escalated into the Reign of Terror. Maximilien Robespierre seized control and the guillotine was his weapon of choice.

When Danton protested the extremes, he too lost his head. On the block, Danton told his executioner: “Make sure you show it to the people. It is worth a look.”

18. Odette Pastry Shop

Foodies should visit Odette Pastry Shop. The bakery is a famous instagrammable spot in Paris, right next to a rare green half timbered building in Paris.

The shop is just steps away from Saint Severin and behind Shakespeare & Co. bookstore. It specializes in cream puffs, but has an extensive menu.

If you’re adventurous and it’s the right season, try the passion fruit or champagne puff.

19. Grande Mosque de Paris

The Grande Mosque de Paris is the principal religion center for Paris’ Muslim community.

The mosque was built between 1922-1926 in a composite Moorish style. Its calling card is a striking green and white minaret that’s 65 feet tall.

The most gifted artisans from northern Africa were hired to decorate the building with mosaics, tiles, and marbles. The grand patio features woodwork, mosaics, and a beautiful fountain. It was inspired by the Alhambra in Granada .

The mosque is open to the public. You’ll just have to take your shoes off to enter. It also has a popular tea room, which serves mint tea and Moroccan food in an idyllic Moorish setting.

20. Institute du Monde Arabe

Inaugurated in 1987, the Institute du Monde Arabe is an amazing glass and steel building designed by Jean Nouvel. (He also designed the Quai Branley-Chirac Museum .) The sleek facade has 1,600 aluminum prisms that open and close to regulate sun coming the building.

The building was the product of a joint Franco-Arab project intended to encourage cultural links between the West and the Arab world.

The building has permanent and temporary exhibitions spaces, a library, bookstore, and auditorium. The permanent collection showcases the scientific and cultural achievements of Arab scientists.

It also has a rooftop cafe that offers up spectacular views of the Seine and Notre Dame. This alone makes it one of the top attractions in the Latin Quarter.

21. Jardin Des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes is another excellent attraction in the Latin Quarter, a place where you can escape the city buzz.

It was originally founded in 1635 as the royal medicinal garden of Louis XIII. The gardens were later expanded in 1739 by Georges Buffon. They have since been renovated and reopened to the public in 2010.

There are three majestic avenues lined with trees, three greenhouses, a menagerie, bronze gazebo, and 18th century labyrinth. The menagerie (or zoo) is classified as a history monument.

The gardens are on the grounds of Paris’ Natural History Museum . It’s an old world museum featuring the evolution of animals. You’ll find the usual whale skeleton, taxidermied animals, and animal-centric interactive displays.

Where To Stay In The Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is brimming with excellent hotels, including some hip boutique hotels.

Hotel le Lapin Blanc is a pretty hotel with pastel shades near the Luxembourg Gardens. At the beautifully renovated Hotel Monge , the decor offers numerous nods to literary Paris.

The Hotel d’Aubusson is a fantastic hotel with old world charm near the Seine. The Esprit Saint Germain is a warm boutique hotel with an authentic Parisian vibe. The Hotel de Buci is a sumptuous boutique hotel inspired by 18th century designs.

One of my favorite hotels is the beautiful Relais Christine . It’s a discreetly luxurious boutique hotel in a Paris mansion.

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to the top attractions in the Latin Quarter. You may enjoy these other Paris travel guides:

• 5 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 3 Day Itinerary for Paris
• 2 Day Itinerary for Paris
• Tips for Planning a Trip to Paris
• Tourist Traps To Avoid In Paris
• T op Attractions in Montmartre
• Top Attractions in the Marais
• Best Museums In Paris
• Hidden Gems in Paris
• Best Things To Do in Paris in Winter
• Guide to the Opera District
• Secret day trips from Paris

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2 thoughts on “Top Attractions & Things To Do In Paris’ Latin Quarter”

I must compliment you…this is one of the best ‘blogs’ I have found in my search for what to do in 2 weeks in Paris. My wife and I are taking the Viking France’s Finest cruise15 days. Since we are traveling so far, and probably for the last time (cruise in 2024 – 78 years old too). About Shakespeare and Company. In 1986 I went to Paris and had already looked up the history of the famous book store. I knew that George Whitman was the owner so when I visited, I asked if I if I could speak to him. The clerk sent me upstairs. George was at his desk and welcomed me warmly. The then I told him that, being a Whitman from Massachusetts, I was his son. I will never forget the look on his face — only for a few seconds. He jumped up and embraced me with tears of laughter streamimg down his cheeks. Good thing he had a good sense of humor. I will return to meet Sylvia Beach Whitman in 2024. Thank you for this excellent information…particularly about botique hotels.

Thank you so much Stanley! I hope you have a divine time.

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Last Updated on January 9, 2024 by Leslie Livingston

Latin Quarter Guide: Wandering around Medieval Paris!

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 13th October 2022

Categories Paris

Last Updated on 13th October 2022 by Sophie Nadeau

Good food, Haussmann architecture and plenty of history: few arrondissements capture the spirit of iconic Paris quite like the Latin Quarter . Oh, and if you’re in search of medieval Paris, then you’re definitely taking a step ( back ) in the right direction. Here’s your complete guide to the Latin Quarter of Paris , including what to see, visit, and where to stay in the 5th arrondissement.

A brief history of the Latin Quarter

Things to know before visiting the latin quarter, #1 visit the paris panthéon, place du panthéon, 75005 paris, france, #2 admire the sorbonne panthéon, 75005 paris, france, #3 purchase a book at shakespeare and company bookstore, 37 rue de la bûcherie, 75005 paris, france, #4 visit the abbey bookshop, 29 rue de la parcheminerie, 75005 paris, france, #5 visit the oldest tree in paris at square rené-viviani, 25 quai de montebello, 75005 paris, france, #6 admire the jardin des plantes, 57 rue cuvier, 75005 paris, france, #7 marvel at the église saint-éphrem-le-syriaque, 17 rue des carmes, 75005 paris, france, #8 explore paris’ roman past, various locations throughout the latin quarter, #9 eat a cinnamon bun at circus bakery, 63 rue galande, 75005 paris, france, #10 wander around the jardin du luxembourg, #11 visit saint-etienne du mont, final resting place of saint genevieve, #12 visit san francisco books, #13 shop at librairie le pont du jour, #14 college des bernardins, #15 go shopping on rue mouffetard, hotel villa d’estrées, hôtel d’aubusson paris, le sénat, enjoyed reading this latin quarter guide pin it now, read it again later.

Inhabited as early as the Roman era, the Latin Quarter has nearly two millennia worth of history to explore. The district is so called because medieval students of the nearby Sorbonne university spoke exclusively in Latin during the middle ages. Clergymen and students alike would wander the narrow cobbled alleyways conversing in Latin… and the name kind of just stuck!

During the 19th-century, though much of the area was renovated, there are still vestiges of the Latin Quarter’s pre-Haussmann look to be spotted. Sitting squarely by the Seine on the left bank of the city, the Latin Quarter takes up much of the 5th and some of the 6th arrondissements of the city.

The Quartier Latin as it is so-called in French filled with eateries, bookstores, museums, as well as the Sorbonne University and a couple of ancient older gothic churches… Either side of this area, you’ll soon discover that the Saint-Germain-des-Pres and the Ile de la Cité areas of the city also have plenty on offer!

Today, the arrondissement (Paris is divided into twenty districts known as ‘arrondissements ‘) remains home to countless museums, many cobbled streets, and several historic churches that are worth a visit.

The area of the Latin Quarter is the main student part of the city, meaning that it’s common to spy students flitting between lectures or sipping coffee on the terrace-side cafés dotted around the district.

If you want to get to know the area on a local level, then I highly recommend taking this free and self-guided Latin Quarter walking tour . En route, you’ll soon discover many of the main Latin Quarter attractions, as well as all of the hidden gems you may well not have heard of before.

Best things to do in the Paris Latin Quarter

The pantheon sits atop a wide boulevard, just as it has done since its construction in the mid 18th Century. Construction ended in 1789; at the very beginning of the French revolution. 

Once built to honour the patron Saint of Paris, Saint Genevieve (whose final resting place can now be found behind the Pantheon) , today the former church acts as a mausoleum and final resting place for French citizens of note.

One of the greatest honours a French citizen can be bestowed is to be buried in the Pantheon. It is here where you’ll find the resting place of Voltaire and Marie Curie. In a somewhat ironic twist of fate, the first person to ever been interred in the Pantheon was removed during the French revolution and his body was never recovered.

The Pantheon is also home to the infamous Fouquet Pendulum ( built to prove that the earth is round- rather than flat as it was believed to be in the middle ages ). If you want to enjoy the impressive pendulum for yourself or admire the fantastic view from the top of the dome, here’s your complete guide to visiting the Paris Panthéon .

The entire area of the Latin Quarter owes its history and name to students, and so it is perhaps rather fitting that it remains a hub of student life today. You can even visit the interior courtyard of the Sorbonne if you ask nicely at the doorway! As a result of so many students, the entire arrondissement is filled with affordable bistros, bars, and student campuses.

The historic University of Paris was established as early as the 13th Century and was a crucial factor in Paris becoming the capital of modern-day France. Education was once the preserve of the church, but universities changed everything.

Nearby to the Sorbonne Panthéon campus, there are a number of independent cinemas where you can watch vintage and independent films you won’t find elsewhere. Also close by, you’ll find the free-to-visit,  College des Bernardins, which was once home to Sorbonne University Students .

Founded in 1919, Shakespeare and Co. actually comprises of two neighbouring bookstores sat side by side. The café at the end of the street is also now owned and run by the company and well worth a visit if you want to enjoy a coffee (if slightly overpriced) overlooking the nearby cathedral of Notre Dame.

Although the original bookstore from 1919 was closed down during the Nazi occupation of Paris and never reopened, George Whitman revived the concept, opening a new store by the same name in the 1950s.

It soon became a hub for writers, and even has a library on the first floor. If you’re in the area, it’s definitely worth a peek inside… After all, the bookshop is certainly an   offbeat Paris location you won’t want to miss!

There is always a large assortment of discount books residing in the Abbey Bookshop . The inside of the store is completely piled high with books; from floor to ceiling all available space is occupied. Rare finds sit next to barely used second-hand books.

Coffee is available at the back of the shop to all those perusing the shelves in search of a rare find or vintage treasure. Owner Brian is always willing to talk about all things Paris and book-related, while the store holds several book-related events over the year. All in all, the Abbey Bookshop is easily one of the best secret spots in Paris you should know about .

A couple of meters from the Shakespeare and Co. bookstore sits what may well be the most interesting square in Paris. Square René-Viviani is also home to what is purportedly the oldest tree in Paris  and is situated on a former 6th-Century graveyard.

Apparently dating back to around 1650, and pretty damaged, you can tell that the tree has lived through a lot in its lifetime! Elsewhere in the area, there are plenty of cobbled lanes to explore, as well as several bookshops to peruse through. If you’re looking for a quick garden to stop and rest for a little while, then Square René Viviani is easily one of the  best picnic spots in Paris!

While some may argue that Paris is lacking in green space, I would say that this is definitely not the case if you know where to look… One of the largest gardens in the centre of the city sits on the fringes of the Latin Quarter next to the Museum of Natural History (which you have probably heard of if you’ve read ‘All the Light We Cannot See’).

Once a 17th Century herb and medicinal garden, the green space is now a welcome refuge from the narrow streets of the district. The garden is also home to Paris’ Natural History Museum and a particularly unique carousel, the Dodo Manège , which exclusively features characters of endangered and extinct species.

Situated somewhere between the Paris Pantheon and the River Seine, with views onto Notre Dame, the church dedicated to Saint Ephrem is the third place of worship on site. Beautiful and built in the 18th Century on 14th-century foundations, the church is said to have the best acoustics in Paris.

As a result, classical music concerts are often held here and so check the ecclesiastical building’s website for further details. Services are held on a weekly basis and the church is open daily. For more information, here’s how to visit  Église Saint-Éphrem-le-Syriaque, an Obscure Church in Paris.

During the Gallo-Roman period, Paris was, for the most part, known as Lutetia . Though not one of the most important cities during the era, the city was still home to all of the amenities you’d expect from a Roman city; a forum, arena, main street, and baths were all present.

Today, the former Roman amphitheatre now operates as a football ground, while the old Roman baths (Thermes de Cluny) can now be viewed when visiting the Cluny Museum, close to the Sorbonne University. Other highlights of Paris of old include Rue Saint Jacques and Place de la Sorbonne.

If you’re looking for a quick snack while in the Latin Quarter, be sure to head to Circus Bakery . Located close to the River Seine, the newly opened Circus Bakery offers freshly baked Parisian style treats.

Top of the list is cinnamon buns, though jams, comté, and speciality coffee can also be purchased on site. Please note that as of late 2021, Circus bakery is permanently closed. Luckily, many of the same products that were for sale in Circus can now be found for sale in the Café in the Merci concept store in Le Marais.

Home to architectural delights such as the Medici Fountain , the Luxembourg gardens were commissioned during the 17th-century by Marie de’ Medici. Styled to look like the garden of the Pitti Palace, Medici’s childhood home, in Florence, today this public green space is filled with plenty of hidden gems and secret spaces to explore. During the summer months, you can rent miniature sailboats and sail them across the garden’s central fountain feature.

Relegated to the shadows behind the ever-so-famous Paris Pantheon, you’ll find an equally impressive building. The Gothic-Renaissance-Romanesque Church of Saint-Etienne-du-Mont finds its roots dating all the way back to the 6th-century when it was connected to a now demolished abbey.

Today, the ecclesiastical building’s exterior belies little of the sheer beauty to be found within the church. For example, aside from several stunning stained glass windows, be sure to check out the impressive glass tomb which houses all that remains of the relics of Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris (many of her relics were burned during the French Revolution) .

Tucked down a narrow side street in one of the most illustrious districts of the city, the San Francisco Book Company is a must-visit for those who are looking to purchase second-hand English language books. There is even a whole section of the store dedicated to books all about Paris!

Located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, on a street filled with, independent boutiques and plenty of spots to caffeinate, you’ll find the treasure of a bookstore that is Librairie le Point du Jour . Inside, you’ll find thousands of books covering all sorts of topics on sociology, history, economics, philosophy, politics, among other things.

Of all the secret spots you might stumble upon in Paris, Collège des Bernardins remains truly unexpected. After all, it’s not often that you stumble upon such a large structure that’s hidden in plain sight, even in a quirky city like Paris.

The Collège des Bernardins was founded by the abbot of Clairvaux, Stephen of Lexington (an English Cistercian Monk) in 1248 in the 5e arrondissement of the city.

What had once been a swampy piece of land was now home to a building which served as the residence for the Cistercian monks who studied at the University of Paris. Today, you can still wander in and see the medieval vaulted arches of the historic church.

As well as being one of the oldest  streets in Paris , rue Mouffetard  (or la Mouffe as some locals like to call it) , rue Mouffetard is located in the 5th arrondissement and is particularly well-known for its many shops.

This market street has all sorts of shops that you need to be able to purchase ingredients to cook up a French feast and also boasts several quirky stores including clothing shops and independent booksellers.

Where to stay in the Latin Quarter

If you’re looking to stay in the heart of all the action, then the 5th and 6th arrondissements contain plenty of Paris’ major attractions and are home to countless transport links to the rest of the city. Here are the best places to stay in the Latin Quarter (based on web reviews and location)- otherwise, check out our complete Latin Quarter hotels guide :

Situated close to the Fontaine Saint-Michel and not far from Notre Dame, this four-star hotel is incredibly well-reviewed online. This boutique hotel is also close to all of the Major attractions found in the Latin Quarter. Check prices and availability here.

For those searching for a little bit of luxury during their time in the Latin Quarter, this five-star accommodation offers stunning rooms, while the communal area is complete with a jazz bar.  Check prices and availability here.

Close to the Luxembourg Gardens, Le Sénat Hotel offers all of the amenities you would expect from a four-stay place to stay. There’s a self-service bar on offer, a fireplace, and breakfast is available for an extra fee.  Check prices and availability here.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Wednesday 25th of March 2020

Great article, but just one thing: No one thought the earth was flat in the middle ages, in fact it was well established in ancient Greece that the earth was round and academics from then on accepted that. This was a myth made up just to attack the church.

Thursday 13th of August 2020

Precisely, I was just going to say that. The pendulum was made to prove the earth’s rotation, not that it is round. And it’s Foucault’s Pendulum, not Fouquet’s. I also wonder what’s‘infamous’ about it.

Tuesday 17th of October 2017

It’s Jardin des Plantes, not planets.

Tanja (the Red phone box travels)

Wednesday 12th of April 2017

I miss Paris...:) I need to visit it again:)

Thank you for sharing this! I'm coming back to Paris in 2 weeks and I think I need to explore each arrondissement more and this post is what I really needed it x

Our Adventure Journal

25 Things to Do in the Latin Quarter in Paris

Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by Kelly

The Latin Quarter is one of Paris’s oldest districts . Filled with narrow cobblestone streets, the Latin Quarter still retains much of its medieval architecture . This area of Paris was once a Roman village, and it dates back to the Middle Ages. The Latin Quarter first revolved around its university, which was first chartered by King Philip II in the year 1200 AD. The Latin Quarter got its name because scholars from all over the world began traveling to the university to learn the Latin language.

When you visit the Latin Quarter today, you’ll find numerous historical sites, excellent cafes, and charming parks. In this post, we’ll share our guide to the 25 best things to see and do in the Latin Quarter in Paris .

About the Latin Quarter

Paris is made up of 20 arrondissements , or municipal districts. Portions of the Latin Quarter are within the 5th and 6th arrondissements .

The Latin Quarter is known as a student center of higher education. The Sorbonne was the first university in Paris, and it still stands in the Latin Quarter today. The Latin Quarter also contains the Université Paris Cité ,  Panthéon-Assas University, and the Collège de France. It’s not uncommon to see students studying at the many cafes in the Latin Quarter.

Boulevard Saint-Michel is the largest street that runs through the Latin Quarter, and it’s the most modern. However, once you leave the main boulevard, you’ll find lots of small cobblestone streets.

My favorite thing to do is to wander some of the narrow streets without a map or a purpose. I’ve made some of my best local “discoveries” by going a bit off the beaten path. Because of this, my recommendation is to set aside some time in your itinerary to just wander through the Latin Quarter and enjoy everything you find. You’ll stumble upon unique bookshops, cafes, hidden squares, and gardens.

1. Fontaine St. Michel (St. Michel Fountain)

Many visitors begin their day exploring the Latin Quarter at Place Saint-Michel . When we last visited Paris, we visited the Sainte-Chapelle church in the morning, and then we walked over the bridge (Pont Saint-Michel) to Place Saint-Michel. 

My favorite part of the public square is Fontaine Saint-Michel. This fountain was created in 1860 and features the archangel Saint Michael brandishing a sword. Also depicted in the fountain are two dragons that spit water, as well as sculptures of the four classical cardinal virtues (prudence, power, justice, and temperance).

I think this is a truly impressive fountain, and it captures my attention every time I visit Paris. On a sunny day, it’s really nice to sit near the fountain and observe all its details.

2. Take a Latin Quarter Gourmet Food Tour

One of the best ways to explore the Latin Quarter is to take a food tour! A food tour of the Latin Quarter (linked here) will take you to all the best places. We really love to take food tours, because instead of ordering just one large dish, you’ll get to try bites of lots of different foods. You’ll get to visit cheese shops, bakeries, creperies, and more on this tour.

3. Walk Along Quai Saint Michel

The walkway that borders the Seine River in the Latin Quarter is called Quai St. Michel. You’ll be able to observe the beautiful bridge Pont Saint Michel and enjoy watching the boats cruise by. You’ll also see many bouquinistes (riverside book boxes) filled with treasures. The boxes are operated by independent book sellers, and on any given day you’ll see dozens of these open. In addition to books and manuscripts, you’ll also see prints and artworks for sale. Purchasing an item from a bouquiniste makes for a great souvenir! 

3. Sorbonne Université

Sarbonne Université was founded in 1253 and is known simply as La Sorbonne . The Sorbonne is one of the cornerstone’s of the Latin Quarter due to its influence over the centuries. The university is still an active university, and thousands of students attend its courses.

It’s worth visiting the Sorbonne just to catch a glimpse of its exterior. (It makes for an impressive backdrop for photos!) Inside, you’ll find the Grand Hall, Grand Amphithéâtre, and the Grand Salon. It is possible to attend a group tour to view the university’s many famous sites. The tour lasts 90 minutes, and at the time of this writing, costs 15 euros.

4. Musée de Cluny ( Cluny Museum)

The Musée de Cluny is dedicated to preserving the Latin Quarter’s medieval history. Because of this, it’s also known as the National Museum of the Middle Ages. If you’re interested in France’s medieval history, this is the museum you need to visit!

The museum consists of two primary buildings: the Thermes de Cluny (Roman thermal baths) and the Hôtel de Cluny.

Many people visit the Musée de Cluny to view the original The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries . Experts believe that the tapestry was created in the 1500s. 

Note that this museum is closed on Mondays. At the time of this writing, a regular admission ticket costs 12 euros. Check their website for the most updated information.

5. Panthéon

One of the most famous sites within the Latin Quarter is the Panthéon. The Panthéon was built in 1790 , and it constituted the first major monument in the city of Paris. The structure was built with the goal of becoming more grandiose than St. Peter’s in Rome and St. Paul’s in London. The Panthéon was built to be a church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, who is the patron saint of Paris.

Located within the Panthéon are numerous pieces of art, a crypt (Voltaire and Victor Hugo are interred there), and Foucault’s pendulum (which was a device created in 1851 that showed the Earth’s rotation). On the main facade, you’ll see sculptures depicting Nation and Liberty. To the left, are scholars and statesmen. To the right, are soldiers. 

You need to pay for an admission ticket, and you can buy your ticket online. Audio guides are also available. 

6. Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens)

While you’re in the Latin Quarter, stop by the Jardin du Luxembourg. With 57 acres to explore, you could easily spend several hours here on a nice day. The Jardin du Luxembourg is divided into French gardens and English gardens . In the middle, there is a forest and a pond ( Le Grand Bassin ). Children love sailing small toy sailboats across the the pond, which makes it a great place to visit if you’re traveling to Paris with kids. You’ll also find over 100 statues , an apiary, a rose garden, and a greenhouse. 

Some things you’ll want to be sure to see are:

• Palais du Luxembourg : Once housed the royal family, and during the French Revolution it even served as a prison. 
• Medici Fountain: A beautiful fountain that was originally built in 1630 with many modifications over the years. It’s in a quiet area of the park surrounded by tall trees, so it’s easy to miss this site if you’re not looking for it. 
• Pavillion Davioud : This pavillion was built in 1867 and is named after the architect Gabriel Davioud. 
• Orangerie : This building was constructed in 1839 and is dedicated to the cultivation of orange trees. 

The Jardin du Luxembourg is a public garden and is free for all to visit. You can only sit on the grass in designated areas, but there are lots of benches and chairs. If you want just a quick view of the gardens, you can see most of the main sights in about an hour. 

7. Cream Puffs at Odette

Cream puffs, or Choux  à  la Crème   in French, are a must-have Parisian dessert. One of the best places to get them is at Odette in the Latin Quarter. 

Odette is centrally-located in the Latin Quarter and easy to find. It’s wedged within a narrow cobblestone street with direct views of Notre Dame. The shop is fairly small, and there’s just a few bistro chairs outside its door. (Which just adds to the charm!)

We ordered a box of their signature cream puffs. Even though we were very full, we couldn’t help but try several of the different flavors. Although it was extremely difficult to pick a favorite flavor, the raspberry flavor really topped our list!

8. Musée Curie 

This museum features the life work of Marie Curie and the history of radiology research. The site of the museum was Marie Curie’s laboratory. Marie Curie was the Head of the Physics Laboratory at the Sorbonne, and she was also one of the first female professors within the Faculty of Sciences. The museum is free.

9. Jardin des Plantes

The Jardin des Plantes is a beautiful garden located in the Latin Quarter. However, it’s so much more than just a garden! There are actually 11 garden and 6 distinct places to visit. There are galleries, museums, greenhouses a zoo, and a merry-go-round. You could easily spend half a day at Jardin des Plantes. 

10. Arènes de Lutèce (Arenas of Lutetia)

While in the Latin Quarter, you can see remnants of Roman ruins. The Arenas of Lutetia once held up to 15,000 people. Construction for the theater began in the 1st century. Visiting the arenas is free. 

11. Église Saint-Séverin (Saint Severin Church)

As you’re walking through the Latin Quarter, stop by the church of Saint Severin. Construction on the church first began in 1230, which makes it one of the oldest churches in Paris. The church was affiliated with the University of Paris during the 13th century, and the building has survived despite numerous wars and political changes. If you want to see some Gothic architecture, it’s definitely worth a visit!

12. Rue du Chat qui Peche  

Another interesting place to visit in the Latin Quarter is the Rue du Chat qui Peche, which is the most narrow street in the entire city of Paris. The street is only 1.80 meters wide (5 feet, 11 inches). 

13. Bibliothèque Sainte-Geneviève (Sainte Genevieve Library)

This library was originally an abbey that held the tomb of Saint Genevieve. When you walk through the library, you’ll see lots of iron architectural details, green reading lamps, and lots of books!

14. Musée de la Sculpture En Plein Air (Outdoor Sculpture Museum)

The Outdoor Sculpture Museum contains over 50 sculptures. The museum was established in 1980 in Square Tino Rossi. The Outdoor Sculpture Museum is completely free. If it’s a nice day outside, take a stroll through the museum and admire all the sculptures.

15. Salvador Dali Sundial

While in the Latin Quarter, you can also see one of Salvador Dali’s pieces. You’ll have to know where to find it, though! The sundial is caste in concrete on the side of a building. The sundial was created in 1966. It doesn’t actually work, but it’s pretty cool to see a piece of Salvador Dali’s work in public!

16. Shakespeare & Company

One of our favorite places to visit in the Latin Quarter is Shakespeare & Company. This historic bookstore is extremely popular. There’s often a line out the door! In our experience, the line moves pretty quickly. The bookstore has a charming ambiance. If you purchase a book, the shop will add a sticker to it stating that it was purchased at Shakespeare & Company. We think that makes for a pretty cool souvenir! 

17. Dine in a Péniche (River Boat)

One unique experience you have to do in the Latin Quarter is have a meal in a péniche (one of the boats along the river). For example, La Nouvelle Seine sits on the water and has direct views of Notre Dame. (Check out their brunch menu!)

18. Square Rene Viviani

Square Rene Viviani is a public garden located near the Seine River. The square contains the oldest tree in Paris, which was believed to be planted in 1601. Today, the tree is supported by two concrete pillars. The tree is missing some of its upper branches because it was hit by a shell during World War II.

19. La Closerie des Lilas 

Looking for a good cafe in the Latin Quarter? Check out La Closerie des Lilas. This was Hemingway’s favorite cafe. He would frequent the cafe and complete much of his writing there. The cafe has also attracted numerous other artists, including Pablo Picasso and Oscar Wilde.

20. Saint-Etienne-du-Mont

Saint-Etienne-du-Mont is a famous church located in the Latin Quarter. The church contains the shrine of Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris. One of the things that really stands out about this church is its bell tower, which was added in 1624.  

21. Fine Dining at La Tour d’Argent

Paris is known for its fine dining, and La Tour d’Argent is one of the Latin Quarter’s nicest restaurants. The restaurant has large windows that have excellent views of the Seine River and Notre Dame. 

22. Institute du Monde Arabe (World Arab Museum)

The Institute du Monde Arabe was created with the help of 18 Arab countries to share Arab culture. The institute contains a museum, library, auditorium, and restaurant. One especially unique aspect of this museum is its architectural design. The southwest wall is made of glass with 240 shutters that adjust to control for the amount of light and heat that enter the building from the sun.

23. Grande Mosquée de Paris

For a small fee, you can enter the Grand Mosque in Paris. The design of the mosque is reminiscent of the Alhambra in Spain. (Which just happens to be one of my favorite places to visit in Spain!)

24. Watch a Cabaret at Paradis Latin

Paris is famous for its cabaret shows, and you can catch a show in the Latin Quarter at Paradis Latin. Paradis Latin actually happens to be the oldest cabaret in all of Paris. 

25. Eglise Saint-Sulpice

The second-largest church in Paris is the Eglise Saint-Sulpice. The church is filled with murals, paintings, and sculptures. It was also one of the filming locations for the movie  The Da Vinci Code.  There are free guided tours available, but they only occur on select days of the month.

History of the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter has a rich history. The Latin Quarter began as a village named Lutetia . Its first settlers were from a Gallic tribe called the Parisii . (The name Paris comes from this original group.) It’s estimated that Lutetia was founded in the 3rd century BC. Lutetia was an important village because it served as a crossing point over the Seine River.

The Romans then conquered the city in the 1st century BC. Characteristic of the Roman style, the romans built a forum, amphitheater, and Roman baths. (Some of these ruins still remain in Paris!)

During the 1800s, Baron Haussmann renovated much of Paris with his signature style noted throughout the city. However, the Latin Quarter did not undergo such renovations, and thus retains much of its medieval charm today.  

In 1968, the Latin Quarter was the site of major student protests. Thousands of students filled the streets protesting the closure of Nanterre University. This then led to massive strikes throughout France. 

How to Get There

If you’re flying into Paris, the main airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (Airport Code CDG).

The Latin Quarter is located on the left bank of the Seine River , which runs through the heart of Paris. 

It’s very easy to visit the Latin Quarter, because the district is in central Paris. I’ve found it very easy to walk from the Latin Quarter to other notable sites in Paris, including the Louvre and Notre Dame. 

The nearest metro station to the Latin Quarter is the Metro St. Michel stop. 

During our last visit, we also took taxis to reach the Latin Quarter. We found it very easy to catch a cab along Quai de Montebello. 

Hotel Recommendations

Luxury: relais christine.

Relais Christine has the perfect location in the Latin Quarter. The guest rooms and suites are lavishly decorated. The hotel also has a spa.

To check rates for Relais Christine on Booking.com, click here . 

Moderate: Hotel des Grands Hommes

Hotel des Grands Hommes is located right next to the Pantheon. The 3-star hotel features a classic Napoleonic style.

To check rates for Hotel des Grands Hommes on Booking.com, click here . 

Budget: Hotel Minerve

Hotel Minverve contains 54 guest rooms. The rooms are small, but you’ll be able to easily walk around the Latin Quarter when you stay here. 

I’ve been to Paris several times, and the Latin Quarter remains one of my favorite areas of the city. I love to explore the cobblestone streets and find unique bookshops, cafes, and patisseries. After you’ve been to the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre, make sure you spend some time in the Latin Quarter! I also think that the Latin Quarter is a great place to stay due to its central location!

Disclaimer: We always strive for content accuracy. Since the time of publishing, travel-related information regarding pricing, schedules, and hours may have changed. Please look up such information directly from each vendor or institution for the most current information.

Hi, I’m Kelly!

After studying abroad in Spain, I became passionate about international travel. Since then, I’ve traveled to 6 continents and 36 states within the United States. When I’m not travel blogging, you can find me hiking, reading books in Spanish, or playing cribbage. I hope my blog inspires you to see the world!

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The ultimate guide to the Latin Quarter of Paris

What to see in the latin quarter of paris.

The Latin Quarter of Paris is absorbing. Crammed with iconic landmarks, colorful streets, and a wealth of restaurants from every corner of the world, it is one of Paris’s most compelling neighborhoods. The oldest district in Paris is also home to the Sorbonne and several small museums. A student neighborhood and intellectual melting pot for centuries, it is a Left Bank original with many sights and stories to uncover.

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table of content

My TOP 5 Highlights of the Latin Quarter in Paris

• Enjoy the color and life of Rue Mouffetard market (139 Rue Mouffetard, 75005). Referenced by Ernest Hemingway and beloved by Julia Child, this market street bursts with vitality and color. A feast for the senses, especially the tastebuds.
• Explore dusty bookstores and have coffee at the iconic Shakespeare & Company (37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005). The Latin Quarter once brimmed with nostalgic book stores staffed by passionate bookworms. As more and more close, a visit to one of the neighborhood’s institutions may be the last. A local literary legend, the emblematic Shakespeare & Company is going nowhere right now and remains a choice destination for curious visitors and literature buffs.
• Travel back to the middle-ages at the evocative Cluny Museum (28 Rue du Sommerard, 75005). The diverse collection at this magical museum breathes life into medieval France with colorful art and artifacts, all displayed in the enchanting old Hôtel de Cluny, itself built on Roman ruins.
• Take your breath away at the Panthéon (Pl. du Panthéon, 75005). An awe-inspiring list of the great and the good of French history are entombed or commemorated in this breathtaking monument. Take a moment to savor the grandeur of the building before learning a little about the people it lionizes.
• Explore the hidden corners of this historic quartier. This compact quartier is perfect to explore. Hire a bike or put on your walking shoes, there are surprises around every corner of this ancient quarter: from one of the oldest universities in the world, through bustling café-lined cobblestone streets, to the left bank of the Seine overlooking the majestic Notre Dame cathedral.

General information about the Latin Quarter

Straddling the 5th and 6th arrondissements on the left bank of the River Seine, the Latin Quarter is high on many visitor agendas. Bustling yet laidback, there is little to look out for in personal safety. Like any lively area in Paris, though, it pays to secure your valuables against pickpockets. While there are quiet spots around, the main streets are rarely quiet. As long as you don’t mind ducking around group photos, exploring by foot (or bike) is ideal, especially as some of the most compelling streets are pedestrian friendly. At night, the district’s bars and cafés really come to life, drawing in visitors and locals to enjoy the boisterous but easygoing nightlife.

How to get to the Latin Quarter?

Several Métro stations serve the Latin Quarter:

• Line 4 – Saint-Michel Notre-Dame (perfect for Notre Dame and the Latin Quarter)
• Lines 4, 10 – Odéon
• Line 7 – Place Monge
• Lines 7, 10 – Jussieu
• Line 10 – Cardinal Lemoine, Maubert – Mutualité, Cluny La Sorbonne

Bus lines serving the Latin Quarter:

• 27, 38, 47, 63, 72, 75, 96.
• Hop-on, Hop-off bus tours include the Latin Quarter.
• My Tip: You can also reach the neighbourhood very comfortably with one of the Hop on Hop off buses in Paris. These are also included in many Paris Sightseeing Passes, with which you can save money on sightseeing during your visit to Paris. Take a look!

Attractions, activities, and tours in the Latin Quarter

An enduring favorite with visitors, there is lots to see and do in the Latin Quarter. And with a lively bar or busy bistro always around every corner, the neighborhood is a delightful place to spend time.

Top attractions

In the Latin Quarter there are many attractions that you should visit. You can find the best ones here.

Cluny Museum

A true treasure hidden away in the Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissement. One of the more unusual museums in Paris, the Cluny Museum is compact yet fascinating. Sited on the ruins of Gallo-Roman baths, the stirring exhibition brings art and artifacts of the middle-ages to light. In our opinion, this is one of the star attractions in the Latin Quarter. More art museum than gallery.

Rue de la Huchette

Refining the spirit of the Latin Quarter into one densely packed street, rue de la Huchette is a colorful counterpoint to the somber Panthéon. A little touristy and less photogenic than the petite cour du Commerce Saint Andre, but a fun place to shop and soak up the atmosphere. It is also one of the oldest existing streets in Paris and has one of the highest concentrations of restaurants, with Greek specialities predominating. The street also has an intense nightlife with no less than four pubs and many bars.

Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Paris

The church Saint-Étienne-du-Mont stands on the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève, in the 5th arrondissement of Paris. It is one of the architectural jewels of Paris. Not a well-known landmark, but an ornate and calming interior coupled with over 400 years of history make this church a captivating diversion. Pairs nicely with a trip to the nearby Panthéon.

Best tours of the Latin Quarter

There are many things to do in the Latin Quarter of Paris. Here you can find the best tours.

Latin Quarter 2-Hour walking tour

The Latin Quarter and Le Marais are great for walking, but jumping on a bike means you can fit all the main sights into one tour. Bikes, helmets, and knowledgeable tour guide included. Explore this vibrant city like a local on this 4-hour bike tour through the Latin Quarter and the Jewish quarter of Le Marais. The tour starts in the heart of the Latin Quarter and ends at the Hotel de Sens. On the tour you will stop at, among others: Sant-Sulpice, Pantheon, Place Monge, Arenes de Lutece, Place des Vosges and many more.

Paris Walking Tour in the Latin Quarter

Take this 2-hour walking tour through the Latin Quarter of Paris. Explore the Church of Sainte Genevieve, the Panthéon, the Luxemburg Gardens and many more. Cobbled streets and a treasure trove of history and landmarks make a walking tour accompanied by an insightful guide a surefire way to discover more. Meeting point is at the fountain at Place Saint Michel (7B Place Saint-Michel, 75006 Paris).

Eating & drinking in the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is a laidback place to dine, brimming with relaxed bistros, chic restaurants a bewildering diversity of international cuisines. With a nightlife to match, this is a choice place to find lively watering holes and sophisticated bars.

Top restaurants

01 Grains Nobles et Plus Restaurant

Another gem hidden behind an unfussy exterior, this restaurant adds a touch of panache to quality dining. Wooden beams, art-adorned walls, and comfortable seating let you sit back and enjoy seasonal ingredients and creative surprise menus. You will find this restaurant in the 5th arrondissement.

03 Café Shakespeare & Company

Shakespeare & Company is iconic and located in the 5th arrondissement. A dusty bookshop immortalized by Ernest Hemingway and a fixture for local tours. The in-store café taps into the rich heritage and offers views over Notre Dame.

04 Jozi Café

Third-wave cafés, with their traceable beans and artisanal brews, are ascendant in Paris. Jozi Café adds delicious breakfast for the mix for one of the better breakfasts in Paris.

Handily located in the itinerary-topping Latin Quarter in a sea of inviting cafés, their brunch selection is concise and very much in tune with modern tastes.

The ubiquitous avocado toasts are there. Smoked salmon too. Pancakes, tartines, pastries, and granola complete the tempting medley.

A well-priced fixed menu covers the highlights and delivers a satisfying and balanced start to the day. With many of the most visited landmarks in walking distance , you couldn’t ask for more.

05 Nuance Café

Brunch is especially popular at the Nuance Café, a decidedly local hangout in the 5th arrondissement with a warm welcome and comfortable space.

Shopping in the Latin Quarter

Gifted with great markets and lively thoroughfares filled with independent stores and, perhaps, too many souvenir shops, shopping in the Latin Quarter is always entertaining. Some stores to look out for include:

• Fromagerie Laurent Dubois : 47 Ter Bd Saint-Germain, 75005.
• The Abbey Bookshop (Much-loved English language bookstore): 29 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005.
• Shakespeare and Company Bookstore (Iconic bookstore of local legend): 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005.
• Album Comics : 67 Bd Saint-Germain, 75005.
• La Cave du Sénat (Fine wines): 16 Rue de Vaugirard, 75006.
• Avanti la Musica (peculiar & fun music boxes): 73 Quai de la Tournelle, 75005.
• Par’ici (kitsch souvenir wonderland): 52 rue Mouffetard 75005.

The best art galleries and museums in the Latin Quarter

Paris’s oldest district is home to several unique museums and bijou art galleries. Here are a few of the best, both in the district and just outside the Latin Quarter.

01 Cluny Museum

02 artethic gallery.

Tiny but inviting gallery displaying sculptures, photographs, and paintings from a handful of working artists. You will find this art gallery in the 5th arrondissement.

03 Botanical Garden Jardins des Plantes

A green oasis next to the Latin Quarter and home to two natural history museums, art exhibitions, venerable botanic gardens, and La Menagerie (the second oldest zoo in the world.)

01 French Theory

3 stars | What a cool hotel concept: it not only combines a boutique hotel with a distinctly unique design, it is also a concept store and music studio! Located in the heart of the laid-back Latin Quarter, it’s just 200 meters from the Louvre. And at the same time, you’re surrounded by many of the little cafes, bars, and restaurants that make up Paris.For me, French Theory is one of the best budget hotels in Paris, so I didn’t want to deprive you of it here!

02 Hotel La Lanterne

4 Stars | Boasting a cute pool and courtyard, crisp and stylish décor, and balcony rooms, this boutique hotel at the heart of the Latin Quarter strives for premium comfort and serenity.

03 Hôtel Les Dames du Panthéon

3 stars | Hôtel des Grands Hommes is a small romantic boutique hotel on Place Panthéon in the Latin Quarter of Paris. Here you are in the heart of Paris, but without the hustle and bustle – next to the Panthéon you are very quickly at the Seine, the church Notre Dame and the Jardin du Luxembourg. My tip: Get a room with a view of the square, then you look at all of Paris – simply a dream!

04 Hôtel Montecristo EN

4 Sterne | Eines der beliebtesten Boutique Hotels in Paris ist das Hôtel Montecristo im Quartier Latin im 5. Arrondissement. Denn neben der Lage in einem entspannten sicheren und für Paris so typischen Stadtviertel mit seinen Cafés, Bäckereien und Bars seid ihr gleichzeitig ganz nah an vielen wichtigen Sehenswürdigkeiten von Paris . Dazu kommt, dass es wunderschön gestaltet ist, eine sehr gute Bar und einen Wellnessbereich mit Sauna und Pool hat.

Das Hotel ist auch auf diesen Bestenlisten zu finden:

• Die schönsten Hotels im Quartier Latin
• Die schönsten Boutique-Hotels in Paris
• Hotels in Paris mit Pool

05 Hotel Residence Henri IV

4 Stars | Evoking Bourbon levels of luxury, this singular hotel condenses the trappings of a comfortable country chateau into a quiet corner of the Latin Quarter in the 5th arrondissement.

History & Facts about the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is founded on the Roman site Lutetia, the foundation stone of modern Paris. It is the oldest district in Paris , even if the vanquished Gauls had already settled île de la Cité opposite. The Romans left behind the Arènes de Lutèce, an amphitheater you can still play in today (even if little remains from the original structure.) île de la Cité would soon become the preferred site of Roman governors and subsequent French kings. But the Latin Quarter remained important and would eventually become home to France’s first university, La Sorbonne (Université de Paris) . Opened in 1150 , it quickly became a center of learning for Europeans.

By the middle-ages, the university had expanded and the students who filled the street were well-versed in the noble language of the day, Latin . Around this time, the district earned its name, Le Quartier Latin. Despite brief closures during the French Revolution (reopened in 1806) and the student uprisings of 1968 , the university continued to grow in stature. Gaining illustrious alumni like Voltaire and exerting influence in France and beyond, it remains the nation’s most prestigious seat of learning.

The other grand monument in the arrondissement is the Panthéon. Commissioned by King Louis XV of France in the 1750s , he never got to see his magnificent church completed. Nor did he know that it would be dedicated to the great and glorious of France. From Jean-Jacques Rousseau to Victor Hugo, the list of names interred and commemorated at the mausoleum is a roll call of France’s finest and a piece of national history.

Is the Latin Quarter easy to explore on foot?

Yes – The Latin Quarter is a compact neighborhood of cobbled streets and alleyways best explored on foot.

Do I need a map to explore the Latin Quarter?

Probably. It is impossible to get lost, but with many old streets to explore it can be easy to miss points of interest and even easier to find yourself wandering into an adjacent quartier.

Is the Latin Quarter in Paris safe?

Yes – It’s a student neighborhood and tourist hotspot that rarely sees trouble, even late at night. As ever, store your valuables safely as pickpockets are the biggest risk.

Neighbouring districts

The Latin Quarter is a prime Parisian destination surrounded by similarly popular locales. Opposite the district — in the middle of the Seine — is Paris’s storied island, île de la Cité . Home to Paris’s star attraction, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Paris, and the resplendent Sainte-Chapelle, crossing the historic Pont Saint-Michel bridge from the Latin Quarter is a moment for your camera. Touching the western borders of the Latin Quarter is the chic Saint-Germain-des- Prés , the leafy garden quartier Odeon , and the former home to Paris’s mint, the tiny Monnaie district.

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Explore the Latin Quarter: Best Things to Do in the Left Bank

The Latin Quarter of Paris, a historic and iconic area on the left bank of the Seine, has been an integral part of the city’s story for centuries. This article takes you on a tour of this vibrant cultural hub, exploring all there is to see and do. From long-standing cafes and university buildings to literary landmarks that tell tales from days gone by, it’s easy to see why the Latin Quarter continues to draw in visitors worldwide.

Dive into its colorful history, discover hidden gems in its squares and alleys, and discover why people from all walks of life come together in this small corner of Paris . Join us to explore this unique neighborhood, uncover its fascinating stories, and soak up the unique atmosphere that can only be found in the Latin Quarter.

Table of Contents

What to See in the Latin Quarter

1. musée de cluny (musée national du moyen-âge), 2. panthéon, 3. eglise saint-sevérin saint-nicolas, where to eat and drink in the latin quarter, 4. boulevard saint-michel & place saint-michel, 5. rue mouffetard restaurants, 6. atmospheric medieval alleyways & pedestrian streets, 7. bouquinistes & bookshops, 8. dining by the seine river, shopping and entertainment in the latin quarter, 9. eglise saint-étienne-du-mont, 10. place de l’odeon, 11. eglise saint-julien-le-pauvre, 12. sorbonne université, 13. jardin des plantes & musée national d’histoire naturelle, 14. arènes de lutèce, 15. grande mosquée de paris, 16. musée national eugène delacroix, where to stay in the latin quarter of paris for sightseeing, frequently asked questions, why is it called the latin quarter, what is the latin quarter in paris famous for.

The Latin Quarter is a historic district in Paris, located on the left bank of the Seine in the 5th and 6th arrondissements. It’s renowned for being the birthplace of many great writers and thinkers during the Age of Enlightenment. Its patron saint, Saint Genevieve, and its Jardin des Plantes were spared from Baron Haussmann’s renovations – preserving its unique anti-Haussmann blandness.

Today, this bustling neighborhood is alive with culture and history. From ancient churches to vibrant eateries and bookstores, ruins of a Roman amphitheater to locally owned boutiques, authentic French restaurants to beautifully preserved architecture – there’s something for everyone here!

The Latin Quarter offers an unparalleled combination of medieval and modern influences, making it truly one-of-a-kind in Paris. A must-see destination for any visitor!

The Musée de Cluny, also known as the Musée National du Moyen ge, is a renowned museum of medieval art in Paris . Founded in the mid-6th century, it showcases French artifacts from Roman times until the Middle Ages and boasts 24,000 pieces spanning more than 1,000 years of artistic expression.

The highlight of this museum is undoubtedly its Lady and the Unicorn tapestry series – six wool and silk tapestries dating back to the 1490s. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a tranquil garden space or marvel at Jean-Antoine Fouquet’s rare 18th-century pendulum clock – The Fouquet Pendulum.

Visiting the Musée de Cluny is a must for anyone interested in medieval art and history! It’s the perfect place to start exploring Paris’ Latin Quarter.

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The Pantheon is a former Roman temple-turned-Catholic church in Rome, Italy. Situated in the Latin Quarter of Paris on Place du Panthéon, it is the final resting place for many renowned French heroes and martyrs – from Voltaire to Jean-Jacques Rousseau, with Victor Hugo honored with Pantheonization in 1885. Visitors can admire its ornate paintings, sculptures, and frescos – an impressive example of neo-classical architecture.

The Les Invalides complex and the Louvre are nearby attractions, while classical music concerts or outdoor sculpture museums can be enjoyed inside the Pantheon. A must-see for anyone exploring the Latin Quarter of Paris, this remarkable building serves as a reminder of its rich history and global influence.

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The Eglise Saint-Sevérin Saint-Nicolas is a 13th-century church in the Latin Quarter of Paris, on rue des Prêtres-Saint-Séverin. Visitors can marvel at its gothic façade and ornate paintings, sculptures, and stained glass windows.

It also houses interesting historical artifacts, such as a statue of Saint Genevieve – the patron saint of Paris. Nearby attractions include the Fontaine Saint-Michel and the Caveau de la Huchette. Visiting this ancient church is an absolute must when exploring the Latin Quarter; it’s a reminder of its rich history during the Age of Enlightenment.

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The Latin Quarter is renowned for its restaurants, bars, and shops. Locals and tourists flock to the area for its vibrant cafe culture, historic landmarks , and bustling streets. Since the early 1900s, it has been a foodie hotspot with iconic eateries like Café de Flore and Rue Mouffetard’s bistros.

You can find anything from traditional French cuisine to Greek, Spanish or Italian specialties – plus affordable restaurants like Les Baux de Paris and Chez Gladines. Michelin-starred La Tour d’Argent or La Rôtisserie d’Argent are also on offer!

The Latin Quarter isn’t just about eating, though. There are plenty of unique boutiques and bookstores, including San Francisco Book Company or Shakespeare & Company, alongside student-friendly stores. Plus, there’s lively nightlife with jazz clubs and live music venues galore!

When you’re done exploring all that the area has to offer, why not take a picnic or stroll? Medieval alleyways mingle with pedestrian streets while boulevards bustle – whatever your preference when it comes to eating and drinking in Paris; the Latin Quarter won’t disappoint!

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Boulevard Saint-Michel & Place Saint-Michel is a much sought-after spot for tourists and locals in the Latin Quarter of Paris. This area boasts iconic architecture, cobblestone streets, and energetic cafe culture. At its core stands the Fontaine Saint-Michel, commissioned by Napoleon III in 1860. The fountain serves as a rendezvous point and gathering place for visitors and inhabitants.

The Boulevard Saint-Michel also houses numerous shops, eateries, and cafes. From bookstores to fashionable boutiques, there’s something for everyone! Tourists can purchase souvenirs or local products such as cheese, honey, or pastries to take home with them. There are plenty of bars and pubs, like the renowned Café de Flore or San Francisco Book Company.

The district is also home to the celebrated Tour d’Argent restaurant serving classic French cuisine since the 16th century. Its famous dish is pressed duckling prepared with an authentic steel duck press, steak tartare, roasted lamb & fresh oysters on offer too!

From the bustling Boulevard Saint-Michel, you can explore Rue Mouffetard nearby – known for its grocery shopping & abundance of cheese shops plus bakeries & specialty food stores galore! Circus Bakery opened here in the early 1900s but closed in 2021; it was famed for its freshly baked pastries (cinnamon buns/croissants) & signature cream puff! Whether you’re after a delicious meal or a unique shopping experience – even just admiring city beauty – Rue Mouffetard has something special waiting for all who visit!

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The Rue Mouffetard, located near the Pantheon in Paris’ Latin Quarter, is renowned for its local grocery-shopping destination, bakeries, cheese shops, and specialty food stores. It has many restaurants, cafes, bistros, and patisseries offering affordable French cuisine and Greek and Spanish specialties.

Odette Patisserie’s creative flavors of pastries – particularly cream puffs – attract locals and visitors alike. And if you’re looking for a place to picnic with fresh ingredients from the nearby stores or admire the city’s beauty along the Seine River – Rue Mouffetard has something for everyone!

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The Latin Quarter is renowned for its atmospheric medieval alleyways and pedestrian streets, with narrow cobbled roads reminiscent of medieval Paris. Explorers can admire the striking Gothic architecture and intricate designs of the houses and buildings. The Rue de la Huchette is one of these famous pedestrian streets lined with restaurants and shops that attract locals and tourists alike.

Open-air bookshops along the Seine offer a variety of books to suit all tastes. At the same time, the San Francisco Book Company specializes in second-hand English language books – a favorite spot for locals and visitors.

Dining by the Seine River provides guests with delicious meals, stunning views, and live music concerts – plus, don’t forget to check out Salvador Dali’s sundial sculpture depicting a woman’s head in shell form! Strolling through these streets gives you an insight into Latin Quarter history and culture and experiences Paris’ unique atmosphere.

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The Latin Quarter is a haven for book lovers, boasting many bookshops and bouquinistes with books to suit all tastes. Les Bouquinistes is the most renowned of these, comprised of over 200 book boxes along the banks of the Seine River. The Shakespeare & Company Bookstore , revived in 1951 by George Whitman, also calls this area home and offers visitors a library with more than 100,000 books, readings, and discussions.

The Rue de la Parcheminerie houses the Abbey Bookstore – an ideal spot for new, vintage, or rare books. San Francisco Book Company specializes in English-language titles and has become a favorite among locals and tourists.

When you’re done browsing through bookshelves, take some time to explore other offerings around the Latin Quarter, such as boutique hotels like Hotel Dubuisson or cafes like Café de Flore, where you can sample traditional French cuisine alongside international dishes from Boulevard Saint-Germain to Rue Mouffetard.

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The Latin Quarter is an excellent destination for foodies and sightseers alike, boasting a variety of restaurants by the Seine River, offering guests an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a cozy restaurant or an elegant dinner cruise, there’s something to suit everyone.

Le Calife, La Balle au Bond, and Le Cafe des Beaux-Arts are all excellent options for dinner, while La Croisière Gourmande and La Péniche Marcounet offer boat restaurants with stunning views.

The Latin Quarter also has many other eateries, including cafes, restaurants, patisseries, and pubs – from the famous Café de Flore to the quaint Rue Mouffetard bistros. If you’re on a budget, there are also many affordable places, such as Les Baux de Paris and Chez Gladines. For those seeking something more luxurious, several Michelin-starred restaurants like La Tour d’Argent and La Rôtisserie d’Argent serve delicious dishes in style.

Iconic landmarks abound in this area, too – take your pick from Fontaine Saint-Michel, Panthéon, or Eiffel Tower ! Or why not enjoy some al fresco dining along Quai de Montebello or Quai Saint-Bernard? Ernest Hemingway was known to frequent these streets; he wrote fondly of Rue Saint-Jacques and Quai de la Tournelle’s beauty in his works.

Whether it’s romantic dinners or casual lunches that you seek, the Latin Quarter has something for everyone with its vibrant cafe culture, historical landmarks, and bustling streets – so explore!

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The Latin Quarter isn’t just a place for delicious food and drinks. It’s also home to plenty of shopping and entertainment options. Iconic monuments like the Pantheon and Eiffel Tower are located here, as well as winding streets with unique boutiques, cafés, restaurants – even street musicians playing on weekends!

The Church of Saint-Etienne-du-Mont is one of the oldest churches in Paris, dating back to the 12th century. Inside you’ll find pillars with carved capitals, keystones, and stained glass windows from the 16th & 17th centuries. Services are held each week at this historical landmark which remains open daily – outside; there’s an inscription reading “To the great men who are recognized by their country.”

The Place de l’Odeon is another popular destination in the Latin Quarter; it houses the Odeon Theatre de l’Europe, a historical landmark. Visitors can explore side streets for trendy boutiques & restaurants or admire Beaux Art buildings nearby. Another historic church worth visiting is the Eglise Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre, built in Romanesque style – one of the city’s oldest religious buildings, so perfect for exploring history!

The Sorbonne Université offers world-renowned higher education & research opportunities across arts, humanities & social sciences (ranked #48 Best Global Universities). Visitors can explore the grounds to find Marie Curie Museum & Collège de Sorbonne or take a guided tour around campus for unique experiences. Lastly, Jardin des Plantes & Musée National d’Histoire Naturelle are two most popular attractions in the Latin Quarter – perfect places to explore its historical gardens!

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Located in the Sorbonne district of Paris, the Eglise Saint-Étienne-du-Mont is a historic church with centuries of rich history. Attached to the Abbaye de Sainte-Geneviève, this iconic landmark in the Latin Quarter boasts a Gothic-Renaissance-Romanesque style with elaborately carved capitals and fanciful keystones. The 16th and 17th-century stained glass windows are illuminated during weekly services while visitors can explore daily. An inscription outside reads “Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissance,” meaning “To the great men who are recognized by their country.”

The perfect place for those wanting to learn about the Latin Quarter’s past or enjoy its tranquil atmosphere, you can participate in classical music concerts or guided tours that will teach you more about its architecture and history. Whether exploring culture or finding peace away from bustling streets, visit the Eglise Saint-Étienne-du-Mont when visiting Paris !

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The Place de l’Odeon is a semi-circular square in Paris , France, which houses the Odeon Theatre de l’Europe – built in 1782. It’s recognized as a historic landmark and renowned for its stunning architecture, plus it was part of the May 1968 Paris Uprisings.

Explorers can wander side streets to discover trendy boutiques and restaurants or admire Beaux Art buildings. On weekends street musicians play tunes while classical music concerts occur at the Church of Saint-Etienne-du-Mont.

The Place de l’Odeon offers an escape from the Latin Quarter hustle and bustle with plenty of cultures to enjoy – whether you’re looking for history or exploring fashionable shops and eateries!

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Located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, the Eglise Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre is a must-see for anyone exploring the Left Bank’s historic heart. This Melkite Greek Catholic parish church has been around since before the current building was constructed in Romanesque style and is now a historical landmark. Visitors can admire pillars with elaborately carved capitals, fanciful keystones, and stained glass windows from centuries past.

Services are held each week at this open-to-public church, while outside, an inscription reads “Aux Grands Hommes La Patrie Reconnaissance,” – honoring its patron saint Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre. Nearby churches such as the Eglise Saint-Étienne du Mont and the Pantheon offer insight into Paris’ rich history. Whether you’re seeking knowledge or want to wander through winding streets and alleys, add this ancient site to your itinerary!

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The Sorbonne Université is an outstanding higher education and research institution, ranked #48 in Best Global Universities. Founded by Robert de Sorbon, theologian and confessor to King Louis IX in the 13th century, it boasts an impressive 54,000 students today. Explorers can wander its grounds to find the Marie Curie Museum and Collège de Sorbonne or take a guided campus tour for a unique experience. The Collège de Sorbonne is named after its founder and is the oldest college at the university.

The Marie Curie Museum celebrates her life as the first female professor at the Sorbonne and Nobel Prize winner for physics and chemistry with documents, manuscripts, photographs from her life’s work, and interactive displays. Guided tours are available too!

A visit to this historic Left Bank destination offers winding streets of the Latin Quarter plus history galore – making it a must-see spot for anyone looking to explore Paris’ past! From museum visits to guided university tours, there’s something special waiting around every corner at Sorbonne Université!

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Jardin des Plantes and Musée National d’Histoire Naturelle are two of Paris’ most beloved attractions. This botanical garden, part of the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, dates back to the 16th century and features a variety of roses, alpine plants, medicinal plants, and a large pond. Inside this garden lies the museum with its galleries such as Mineralogy, Paleontology, and Grande Gallery of Evolution. It also houses Galeries des enfants – an interactive science museum for children.

The Ménagerie is another highlight in Jardin des Plantes; it’s the second oldest zoo in the world that was transferred from Versailles in 1793. You can find giraffes, tigers, and elephants, among other animals.

Visitors can rent miniature sailboats to sail across the central fountain feature or explore historical gardens. At the same time, guided tours at Ménagerie or activities at Galeries des enfants will entertain kids. The Jardin des Plantes offers an unforgettable experience for all ages!

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The Arènes de Lutèce is a historic Roman monument situated in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, close to Rue Monge and Place Monge . Open from 8 am to 6 pm during winter and later hours in spring and summer, it was built in the first century AD as an arena for gladiator fights, chariot races, and theatrical performances.

Although only one-third of its original size remains today, it can still accommodate 17,000 spectators with 36 tiers of seating. The Dodo Manège carousel featuring characters of endangered species now stands at the Arènes de Lutèce.

The square outside houses several restaurants and cafes, plus Caveau de la Huchette music club, popular among jazz fans. Tourists may also explore nearby attractions such as Rue de la Harpe, Musée de Cluny, Quai de la Tournelle, or Place de la Contrescarpe while visiting this site.

A visit to Arènes de Lutèce offers a unique experience that allows you to discover winding streets and alleys of the Latin Quarter along with some oldest churches in Paris – all accompanied by entertainment options like shopping or learning about the city’s past! An unforgettable journey awaits those who choose this destination!

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The Grande Mosquée de Paris is a mosque in the 5th arrondissement of Paris, established in 1926 to honor Muslim soldiers from French colonies who perished in battle during World War I. It houses a modern structure designed by Jean Nouvel and completed in 1987, inspired by the Alhambra Palace in Granada. The mosque’s interior is adorned with Hispano-Moorish style carpets and a hammam replicating North African baths decorated with mosaic tiles.

The Grande Mosquée de Paris opens its doors to visitors every day except Fridays and Muslim holidays, requiring an entrance fee for the zoo and Natural History Museum and donations for the mosque. Tourists can explore its grounds, participate in religious events or savor traditional tea and food at their Tea Salon & Restaurant. Moreover, guided tours are available to learn more about its architecture and history while admiring its rose garden, alpine garden, and various sculptures.

Close to many popular attractions such as Musée de Cluny, Boulevard Saint-Germain, Place de la Sorbonne, etc., tourists can wander around these sites on foot or via Métro while discovering more about this city’s culture & past.

The Grande Mosquée de Paris offers an extraordinary experience that will leave you wanting more! Whether it be entertainment or shopping you seek – or simply knowledge about this city’s heritage – this place has something special for everyone!

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The Musée National Eugène Delacroix is a Parisian museum dedicated to the works of French Romantic painter Eugène Delacroix. Housed in his former apartment and studio, it boasts a picturesque garden and offers visitors an array of exhibitions and collections. These include artworks by Delacroix himself and Roman-Gallo baths, Gothic ivories, sculptures, paintings, and stained glass windows.

English-speaking guests can conveniently take advantage of services in English and French. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions such as thematic assortments of paintings by Delacroix or on different aspects of the artist’s persona; interactive activities; lectures; workshops – all designed to help you learn more about the life and work of this great artist!

Take a stroll along the way. Rue de la Harpe or Quai de la Tournelle to discover more about medieval Paris while exploring the museum’s collections at your leisure – free admission! Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs from the gift shop before leaving! The Musée National Eugène Delacroix is open daily except Tuesdays, 1 January, 1 May & 25 December, so plan your visit today!

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When looking for a place to stay in the Latin Quarter of Paris, travelers have plenty of options depending on their budget. Hotel Le Lapin Blanc , Hotel Monge , Hotel Parc Saint Severin , Hotel d’Aubusson , and Residence Europe Saint Severin are excellent choices for those seeking central accommodation.

Those looking to indulge can check out the highly rated luxury hotels – Hotel des Grandes Ecoles and Hotel de la Herse d’Or – both offering superb amenities right in the heart of the Latin Quarter. Alternatively, the nearby College de France hotel is always for more affordable accommodation.

No matter which hotel you choose for your stay in this vibrant area of Paris, you will be sure to experience an unforgettable time exploring its cobblestone streets and alleyways or admiring its historic architecture while taking in its unique atmosphere.

The Latin Quarter of Parquicklyily unveils its charm and unique character to anyone who visits. It’s a vibrant and colorful area, full of history and culture that is not mirrored anywhere else. You will find famous monuments , landmarks, churches, cafes, restaurants, bookstores, theatres, gardens, and preserved architectural wonders here.

From visiting the iconic Panthéon and exploring the winding streets around the Eglise Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre church to experiencing the exquisite selection of French, Greek, and Spanish cuisine on Rue Mouffetard and exploring the hidden treasures of the historic medieval alleyways and pedestrian streets, the Latin Quarter is a must-see destination for all visitors in Paris.

In addition to being a cultural hub renowned for its abundance of attractions, the neighborhood offers a range of accommodation options so visitors can soak up its beauty during their stay. With so much to explore, the Latin Quarter of Paris is an unforgettable experience of art, history, and local flavor.

Named for its history of intellectualism, the Latin Quarter is one of the oldest districts in Paris. It lay on the left bank of the Seine and was historically home to numerous universities where Latin was heavily studied and used. Thus, the area became known as the Latin Quarter and retained this name today due to its cultural resonance and popularity.

The Latin Quarter is vibrant, full of cafes, restaurants, and shops. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals, known for its lively atmosphere and unique culture.

The Latin Quarter of Paris is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, filled with bars and lounges such as Paradis Latin, regarded as one of the oldest in the city. It is home to the famous Pantheon and Sainte Genevieve Library, the world’s first public library designed by Gustave Eiffel. The Latin Quarter is truly a must-see destination for anyone visiting Paris.

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How to spend a day in the Latin Quarter or the 5eme ou 6eme as the Parisians say!

Fall in love with the panthéon’s neoclassical architecture.

The story goes like this: King Louis XV of France was very ill and vowed to rebuild the church dedicated to Sainte-Geneviève (patron saint of Paris) if he was healed. He eventually recovered, and commissioned the Panthéon in 1744. What we see today however, is no longer a church, but a monument that stands to honour great men in history. A mausoleum and a final resting place for legendary figures like Voltaire, Victor Hugo, Marie Curie and Alexandre Dumas, this neoclassical building with its distinctive off-white dome is perched on top of the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève. Inside, you can visit the crypts with the remains of these intellectual visionaries, see a replica of Foucault’s pendulum or climb up to the dome for stunning views of Paris.

Relive your student life at the Sorbonne!

One of the ways to feel like a local here is to stroll by the Sorbonne University, watching the students rush from one class to another. The Sorbonne is a true edifice of the Latin Quarter and houses the successor universities of the University of Paris. Paris-Sorbonne University is the main inheritor of the old Sorbonne, which dates back to the 13th century. It’s the largest institution in France dedicated to the study of literature, languages, civilizations, arts, humanities and social sciences. Walk past its buildings and observe students engaged in deep scholarly discussions. You can even sign up for a tour to discover its rich heritage.

Travel back in time to the Middle Ages

The Musée de Cluny (External link) or the Cluny Museum - National Museum of the Middle Ages, is the famous home of The Lady and the Unicorn tapestries, said to be one of the greatest surviving artefacts of their kind from the Middle Ages. The museum was once the town house of the Abbots of Cluny and is an outstanding example of medieval architecture. It was built on the remains of Roman baths from the 3rd century which can still be seen in the lower level. Explore the stained-glass windows from Saint Chappelle, remarkable wooden sculptures, gothic rooms and, surprisingly, the heads of Judean kings (they were beheaded during the French revolution) from the front of Notre Dame.

The Latin Quarter for Bibliophiles

For an avid reader who is travelling, a stop in a bookstore always feels like home, whether you understand the language or not. When I found out that the Quartier Latin is a bibliophile’s haven, I had to visit it on my first ever trip to Paris! On my literary bucket list was of course, one of the most Instagrammed bookstores, Shakespeare & Company (External link) . You can spend hours at this English-language bookshop, finding your way between customers flipping through novels, or a staff member perched on a ladder trying to restock a book, only to find a comfortable seating place in the corner. (Pro-tip- If you like a coffee to go with your book, then the café next door, the one that bears the same name as the bookstore, is the perfect spot!)

For those looking to own a piece of French history, take a look at what the bouquinistes or booksellers along the Seine have to offer- it could be a second-hand or antique book (including rare editions of novels), a collectable postcard, a print or a poster!

The striking Notre-Dame Cathedral and the unmissable Luxembourg Garden

While the beloved Notre-Dame Cathedral may not be open to visitors for a few more years owing to the unfortunate tragedy that occurred on April 15th, 2019, it remains an architectural legacy, with its flying buttresses, rose windows and stained glass. I had the opportunity to explore the interior of the Church, and it was indeed, a surreal experience. The stained glasses allow the natural light from the outside to reflect inside, giving the Church a holy glow of sorts. And its huge vaulted ceiling had me gazing upwards through the entirety of my tour!

20 minutes away from the Notre-Dame is the Luxembourg garden. The gardens, which cover 25 hectares of land, are split into French gardens and English gardens. You can lounge on the chairs, enjoy watching a game of pétanque or steer mini sailboats in the pond! La vie est belle!

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Paris Latin Quarter

Historic Quartier Latin

The Latin Quarter in Paris , or Quartier Latin , is one of the most popular visits in the city.

Located south of the Île de la Cité , and around the Sorbonne, it has been and continues to be one of the busiest and liveliest areas of the French capital .

It owes its name to the students who lived here in the Middle Ages, since until the 18th century the university only spoke Latin .

University district of Paris

The Latin Quarter in Paris is closely linked to the history of the students, who have had a great influence on the life of the city. It was one of the key sites during the May 68 Revolution, when student movements and protests led to the largest general strike in French history.

hippie movement of the time had a great influence on the Parisian student groups, who demanded a society with less inequality, less consumerism and authoritarianism. The massive protests, joined by industrial workers, unions and the French Communist Party, ended when de Gaulle announced snap elections.

What to see in the Latin Quarter of Paris?

In the center of the Latin Quarter is the Place Saint Michel , with a bronze statue of Saint Michael fighting the Devil. From the square radiate narrow streets full of charm and full of restaurants and cafes with their terraces with a relaxed atmosphere and more affordable prices compared to the rest of central Paris.

A five-minute walk from Saint Michel Square you will find the Cluny Museum of the Middle Ages , with one of the most outstanding medieval collections in the world. Thanks to the student tradition of the Latin Quarter, several cinemas and theaters are located here, a lively  nightlife in Paris and a great cultural offer. There are music rooms and bookstores, the most famous for its history and its appearance in cult movies: Shakespeare And Company

Around Rue de la Harpe , you will find shops, restaurants and a lot of movement of visitors and locals.

Near this area you can visit buildings of architectural interest such as the Pantheon in Pari , the Sorbonne University, the Luxembourg Palace and Gardens and the Odeon Theater . Interesting places to see in Paris .

One of the best free tours in Paris covers many of the picturesque places in the Latin Quarter, such as Rue du Chat Qui Pêche (the narrowest street in Paris), as well as many stories, curiosities and anecdotes.

It is a highly recommended neighborhood to stay in Paris . If you are looking to bet on the safest, we recommend you take a look at this list of 5 excellent hotels in the heart of the Latin Quarter in Paris .

More attractions in Paris

Continue planning your trip to Paris with these ideas

Natural History Museum

Recommended museum with exhibits on geology, botany, mineralogy, anatomy, paleontology and zoology.

Marché Monge Flea Market

Charming open-air market in Paris, characterized by a pleasant village atmosphere.

Île de la Cité

The island in the Seine River in the middle of the center of Paris where the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sainte Chapelle and the Conciergerie are located.

Cluny Museum

The Museum of the Middle Ages in Paris has one of the most outstanding medieval collections in the world.

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Dreamer at Heart |

17 Best Things To Do In The Latin Quarter Paris

Last Updated: October 25, 2023 By Alison Browne Leave a Comment

The Latin Quarter Paris is a charming neighbourhood in Paris that seamlessly blends history, culture, and an undeniable sense of bohemian charm. Nestled on the left bank of the Seine River in the 5th arrondissement, there are plenty of things to do in the Latin Quarter of Paris. Stroll its cobbled streets, admire the stately architecture and vestiges of Roman Paris, and stroll past one of the world’s oldest learning institutions, La Sorbonne. The Latin Quarter of Paris is unforgettable.

Planning Your Trip to Paris?

Book your airline tickets with my favourite platform, Skyscanner.

Book a transfer from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport with Welcome Pick Ups .

Reserve a car (not for Paris) but for a road trip in France

Reserve train tickets for further travels in Europe with Trainline (my go-to)

Where To Stay in Paris:

Hotels in the Latin Quarter Paris: These boutique hotels are inviting and in great locations for discovering Paris. Hotel Le Lapin Blanc (named after the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland), Hotel Monge is very popular, and Hotel d’Aubusson is a 4-star hotel very close to the Seine. Here is a map of all hotels in the Latin Quarter .

Homestays : This colourful apartment is right by one of my favourite places to get the best croissant! This apartment has a view over the Seine and Notre Dame’s towers. This small apartment , full of old-world charm, is perfect for two. In a fabulous location, by the Mabillon metro station, this chic apartment sleeps up to 6 people.

Affordable Hotels In Paris : Check out this curated list of 13 best affordable Paris hotels .

Boutique Hotels In Le Marais : 11 Charming Boutique Hotels in le Marais

1. Absorb Intellectual Brilliance At La Sorbonne

The world-renowned Sorbonne University in the Latin Quarter of Paris was founded in the 13th century by Robert de Sorbon. Latin was spoken by the professors and students in the streets of the Latin Quarter and thus the name was born.

Sit at a café in Place de la Sorbonne with its central fountain and admire the entrance to La Sorbonne with its beautiful façade and the blue dome of the Sorbonne Chapel elegantly soaring skyward.

Care to visit this distinguished university? Try contacting [email protected] to set up a guided tour.

This Latin Quarter of Paris gem is found at 1 rue Victor Cousin

Closest Métro: Cluny- La Sorbonne

Planning Your Paris Trip ? Be sure to book in advance for the most popular things to do. Book your one-hour Seine cruise , a timed-entry ticket to the Louvre Museum, and a skip-the-line ticket to the top of the Arc de Triomphe . And don’t forget a skip-the-line guided tour of Versailles and Disneyland !

Guided Tours Of Paris Latin Quarter:

A 90-minute walking tour of the Latin Quarter Paris

2. The Latin Quarter Paris: Visit The Panthéon

Wondering what to do in the Latin Quarter Paris? The Panthéon is a must-see in the Latin Quarter. Originally erected as a church to honour Sainte Geneviève, after the French Revolution the Panthéon was transformed into a temple where famous French men (yes, mostly men) are interred.

Wandering through the crypt, you’ll find a real who’s who of the French greats. Philosophers including Voltaire, writers including Victor Hugo and Alexandre Dumas, and scientists including Pierre and Marie Curie are found in the crypt. The latest addition to the Panthéon (fall 2021) was Josephine Baker, one of six women honoured in the Panthéon.

Read More | The 6 Women Honoured in the Panthéon, Paris.

Stand in awe at the stunning neo-classical building modelled after the Pantheon in Rome, explore the interior with Foucault’s Pendulum demonstrating that the earth rotates on its own axis, and look for countless inspirational French greats in the crypt. Oh, how the Latin Quarter of Paris is inspiring!

One of the best things to do in the Latin Quarter of Paris is to climb the 206 stairs of the Panthéon to the viewing platform. The views over Paris are breathtaking. Open from April to October 31.

Book My Entry Ticket To The Pantheon HERE

This Best Thing To Do in the Latin Quarter Paris is found at Place du Panthéon

Closest Métro : RER Luxembourg, Cardinal Lemoine

3. Uncover All The Treasures In Saint-Étienne-du-Mont

There are many reasons to visit Saint-Etienne-du-Mont. You might, as I was, be drawn to its purple door visible from the Panthéon. Or perhaps its soaring 16th-century belfry. You might want to sit on the famed staircase from the movie Midnight in Paris where Owen Wilson waited to be picked up each night. Or, you might want to see the shrine dedicated to Sainte Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris. Saint-Etienne-du-Mont also has the last remaining rood screen in Paris, an elaborate white stone partition separating the chancel from the main part of the church. All these reasons make it one of the best things to do in the Latin Quarter Paris.

Saint-Etienne-du-Mont was built between 1492 and 1626 and thus is a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance styles. Note the stunning stained glass windows dating from the 16th century and the early 17th century most of which are in their original locations. Perhaps you will time your visit with a Saturday evening organ concert.

This Latin Quarter Paris gem is found at Place Sainte-Geneviève

Closest Métro : Cardinal Lemoine

Essential Reading

25 Essential Paris Travel Tips will prepare you for Paris! Here are 39 best Paris experiences and also some terrific hidden gems . Only have one day in Paris? Follow this itinerary !

If you really want to explore Secret Paris? There are over 60 secret spots in my eBook, Paris for the Curious Stroller .

4. Step Back In Time At The Cluny Museum 

There are many smaller museums in Paris, but here tucked into the heart of the Latin Quarter Paris is the Museum of the Middle Ages. Housed in a stunning Gothic hôtel de Ville where the abbots of Cluny used to stay is an outstanding collection of artefacts. 

Remind yourself that Paris used to be ruled by the Romans while you stand in the ancient Gallo-Roman baths. 

Be blown away by the Lady and the Unicorn tapestry series and find countless relics from Notre Dame Cathedral, and Sainte-Chapelle. 

Items from daily life in the Middle Ages, glittering golden crowns and the remarkable chapel make this a favourite small museum in Paris . 

Read More | All about the Cluny Museum in the Latin Quarter Paris.

This Latin Quarter of Paris gem is found at 28 rue du Sommerard

Closest Métro : St-Michel

5. The Latin Quarter Of Paris: Stand In The Arènes de Lutece

Oh, Roman Paris!

Right in the heart of the Paris Latin Quarter is a Roman arena dating from the first century AD. Roman gladiators fought here in the 5th arrondissement. Imagine that. Right in Paris.

And why the name Lutèce? Aeons ago, the capital of France was called Lutèce or Lutetia and was occupied by the Romans. Ahh, Paris! Never a dull moment.

Come and sit in an ancient Roman arena where 15000 spectators used to cheer.

This Latin Quarter of Paris gem is found at 49 rue Monge

Closest Métro: Jussieu, Place Monge, Cardinal Lemoine

6. Relax At The Jardin des Plantes In The Latin Quarter Of Paris

The Latin Quarter of Paris has one of the most beautiful and varied parks in Paris. You’ll never tire of things to do in these Botanical Gardens that are 400 years old. Stroll along the alleys and admire the plane trees and stunning rose, peony and alpine gardens. Visit the Natural History Museum, one of the world’s oldest zoos and the glass and steel Grandes Serres (greenhouses) that have been in use since 1714. Like a true explorer, find your way to the hilltop gazebo amidst the yew-hedged maze!

Spring blossoms provide a riot of colour including flowering cherry blossoms and the spectacular white cherry blossom tree (Prunus Shirotae).

The Jardin des Plantes also has a unique Christmas light display. In 2021, illuminated prehistoric animals were placed all through the park.

Fun Paris Latin Quarter Fact : I first heard of the Jardin des Plantes when reading All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr. I knew I needed to visit. The book was also the inspiration for my first trip to Saint-Malo.

This Paris Latin Quarter gem is found at 57 rue Cuvier

Closest Métro Stations: Gare d’Austerlitz, Censier Daubenton, Jussieu

7. The Latin Quarter Paris: Visit The Grand Mosquée

One of France’s largest places of Islamic worship is found in the Latin Quarter of Paris, just a few steps from the Jardin des Plantes. The 26-metre-high minaret is impressive along with the ornate Moorish-style architecture and design. Admire the decorative tiles and horseshoe arches in the garden. Be sure to enjoy a cup of Moroccan mint tea and what about relaxing at the Hammam (the Turkish baths) that are for women only? Add in a massage and a gommage to make your day!

Pro Travel Tip : See the magnificent wisteria in bloom here in the spring.

This Latin Quarter Paris gem is found at 2bis place du Puits de l’Ermite

Closest Métro: Place Monge

8. The Latin Quarter Paris: Attend A Concert

There are three small churches in the Latin Quarter of Paris that are dear to my heart: Église St-Julien-le-Pauvre, Église Saint-Éphrem-le-Syriaque, and Église Saint-Séverin. They are all unique in their own way. Église St-Julien-le-Pauvre is one of the oldest religious buildings in Paris, dating to the 12th century. Église Saint-Éphrem-le-Syriaque built in 1733 has phenomenal acoustics and Église Saint-Séverin houses the oldest bell in Paris in its bell tower! Classical concerts are performed at all three of these churches and make for a special evening in Paris.

Book My Ticket To A Concert In The Latin Quarter HERE

Where to find these gems in the Latin Quarter of Paris :

St-Julien-le-Pauvre, 1 Rue Saint-Julien le Pauvre

Église Saint-Éphrem-le-Syriaque, 17 Rue des Carmes

Église Saint-Séverin, 2 Rue des Prêtres Saint-Séverin

9. The Latin Quarter Of Paris: Stroll Rue Mouffetard

One of the essential things to do in the Latin Quarter Paris is to stroll along one of my favourite Paris streets , rue Mouffetard, on a Sunday when the service at Église Saint-Médard ends. As the parishioners flood out of the rustic church, sit at the corner café, watch dancers spin to live music and know that this is as local an experience as it gets.

Then wander along one of the oldest market streets of Paris, hailing from Roman times. Given its lifespan, rue Mouffetard has a long and intriguing history but today it is lined with boutiques, grocers, butchers, cheese shops, cafés and crêperies. Take note of the lovely façade, designed by Italian painter Eldi Gueri, across from église Saint-Médard.

10. Feel The Vibe At Place de la Contrescarpe

Either start or end your stroll along rue Mouffetard with a drink or meal at lively Place de la Contrescarpe. It’s a bustling spot with plenty of leafy trees and a fountain where musicians are often entertaining the crowd. Place de la Contrescarpe, in the Latin Quarter Paris, is surrounded by typical French cafés. There are lots of small Greek and Lebanese restaurants where you can pick up a reasonably priced meal. My favourite is to order a falafel sandwich at Le Cèdre and then perch in the middle of Place de la Contrescarpe, like one of the many university students.

Ernest Hemingway fans will immediately recognize Place de la Contrescarpe from the opening of A Moveable Feast . He lived from 1922 to 1923 with his first wife Hadley in the Latin Quarter of Paris at 74 rue du Cardinal Lemoine.

11. The Latin Quarter Paris: Sit In Square Rene Viviani

Square Rene Viviani has wonderful views of Ile de Cité and Notre Dame. But its real claim to fame is that this square in the Latin Quarter Paris boasts the oldest tree in the city. The black locust or “robinier” was brought from North America in 1601 and has been watching over Paris for more than 400 years. Sit under its shade and imagine the past. Over the centuries, who has sat here? Who walked by when it was just a little sapling? 

Pick up some melt-in-your-mouth choux pastries (cream puffs) from around the corner at Odette’s. Settle in and enjoy the moment!

If you’re crazy for spring blossoms in Paris you’ll find wisteria here in the spring and during the Christmas Season, a lovely small Christmas market  replacing the one that usually takes place in front of Notre Dame.

12. The Latin Quarter Of Paris: Dance By The Seine

Read More | Don’t miss these insider tips from someone who lived in the Latin Quarter Paris

While in the Latin Quarter head to the Seine River. Plan for a picnic sitting across from Ile Saint-Louis with Notre Dame Cathedral in view. Gather your picnic items on rue Mouffetard or at the shops at Maubert-Mutualité (except on Mondays).

I just love the dancing by the Seine at Quai Saint-Bernard (Jardin Tino-Rossi) in the Latin Quarter of Paris. Wander down to the Seine in the evening and join in the dancing or simply sit in one of the amphitheatres and watch. It’s people-watching with a seductive twist. The Latin Quarter of Paris can get your feet tapping! Will you choose to dance salsa, tango , or rock?

13. Browse Shakespeare and Company

I’ll never forget my friend resisting my idea to stop by Shakespeare and Co. “Why are we going to an English bookstore in Paris?” She was swept away the minute we arrived.

Here in the Latin Quarter Paris, Shakespeare and Company has a long history starting with Sylvia Beach wanting to provide a meeting place for writers such as James Joyce, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Ernest Hemingway (have you been to the Hemingway Bar in Paris?). The current location of Shakespeare and Company opened in 1951 and continued as a gathering spot for writers. It’s iconic, this bookstore in the Latin Quarter of Paris, and you too will love exploring its corners and shelves. Be sure to head up the creaky stairs and ponder the quote from Hafiz, one step at a time.

After browsing and purchasing, stop by the coffee shop Shakespeare and Company Café and dive into your new book!

Looking for other great English bookstores in Paris ? The Abbey Bookshop, run by a Canadian, is just around the corner. Please note the Canadian touch – maple syrup is available to drizzle in your coffee!

This Latin Quarter Paris gem is found at 37 rue de la Bûcherie

Closest Métro: St-Michel

14. Find French Gastronomy At Maubert-Mutualité

Some of the best places to eat in the Latin Quarter of Paris are the little boutiques at the Metro Maubert-Mutualité.

Here you will find one of the best croissants in Paris at La Maison d’Isabelle (47ter Bd Saint-Germain) and one of my favourite Paris fromageries , Fromagerie Laurent Dubois (47ter Bd Saint-Germain). This is the perfect place to shop for a picnic by the Seine.

Around the corner is Aux Merveilleux de Fred (2 rue Monge) one of my favourite pâtisseries in Paris !

Look for the little market that runs from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

15. Step Back In Time At Le Collège des Bernardins

Once again it is possible to step back in time while exploring the Latin Quarter of Paris. The Collège des Bernardins brings you back to 1248 when monks lived and studied in this space.

Enter the Collège des Bernardins and walk through the impressive former nave and sacristy. Today it is used as an exhibition centre and event venue organizing events from lectures, to yoga evenings, to film screenings.

This Latin Quarter Paris gem is found at 18 -24 rue de Poissy.

Closest Métro: Cardinal Lemoine

16. The Latin Quarter Paris: Visit A Jazz Cave

Looking for jazzy things to do in the Latin Quarter Paris? Imagine descending into a cave and finding a hopping scene with live music. Such is an evening spent in the Latin Quarter in Paris at Le Caveau des Oubliettes, a 12th-century medieval dungeon, and Caveau de la Huchette.

The Caveau des Oubliettes is found at 52 rue Galande, 75005 Paris

The Caveau de la Huchette is found at 5 rue de la Huchette, 75005 Paris

17. The Latin Quarter Of Paris: Find Emily’s Haunts

The Latin Quarter of Paris is completely charming and so it comes as no surprise that it is used in film sets. I have stumbled across filming in action several times while walking or biking through the Latin Quarter.

Let’s talk Emily in Paris . Emily moves into her apartment when she arrives in Paris and it is located just a few minutes from the Panthéon in Place de l’Estrapade. If you want to follow in Emily’s footsteps, here are a few things to do in the Latin Quarter of Paris.

Sit in Place de l’Estrapade, a lovely, small square with several benches and towering trees and head to the Boulangerie Moderne, where Emily discovers the delights of pain au chocolat.

I hope you enjoy immersing yourself in these 17 best things to do in the Latin Quarter Paris!

Until next time,

More Paris Info…

Get mixed up with the arrondissements of Paris? This guide to  the Paris arrondissements   will help you plan your best visit to the City of Light!

If you love hidden gems , here are 25 to discover in Paris.

  This post on Montmartre  leads you to the most popular sites as well as some lesser-known places in Montmartre.

Another of Paris’s most-loved areas is Saint-Germain des Prés. Here are my best tips on things to do in  Saint-Germain des Prés.

Le Marais  is one of the best areas of Paris to flâner. Here are  23 tops things to do in le Marais .

La Butte aux Cailles,  tucked away in the 13th arrondissement, is another place in Paris that has retained its village-like charm.  My article on La Butte aux Cailles  will lead you to discover some of the area and its visually enticing street art.

Canal Saint-Martin  is another place full of small restaurants, boutiques and plenty of character. Stroll the bridges of the canal under the chestnut trees and feel like a true Parisian. All the details on this “bobo” district are in  this article on Canal Saint-Martin .

Here are all the things to do  on Ile Saint-Louis , one of the oldest villages in Paris.

Don’t forget that the  7th arrondissement   has lots to see and do once you have seen the Eiffel Tower.

And the 11th arrondissement of Paris ? Authentic and full of great restaurants and shopping (like a local).

Other Paris and France Travel Tips:

Travelling to  Paris alone ?  This article on navigating Paris alone  is full of tips and tricks for the solo traveller.

This page has  all my articles on Paris   that will help you plan out your trip, including day trips from Paris. I hope you  subscribed to my newsletter  to get my free download –  An Amazing 2-day Itinerary in Paris.

If you are going further afield in  France , make sure to check out  my page on France.

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Alison Browne

Creator and Founder of Dreamer at Heart Alison, a Francophile from a young age, is following a long-held dream and has been living in Paris since 2020. Her passion for uncovering Paris and discovering the regions of France has resulted in an expertise about France that she loves to share in her articles. Also a solo traveller, Alison shares her experiences of solo travel to many corners of the world. Alison helps over 65000 readers a month plan their trips.

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[2023 GUIDE] 17 Best Things to Do in Latin Quarter | Paris Tips

Posted by Mick | Europe , Places to Go | 0

The best things to do in Latin Quarter are some of the top attractions in Paris . The Latin Quarter is a must visit neighborhood in Paris with a vibrant atmosphere and fascinating history dating back to the Roman times. There are many interesting buildings, prestigious educational centers such as the Sorbonne and Le Collège France, as well as dozens of booksellers, independent cinemas, and beautiful restaurants and bars. In addition to being saved from major works from Baron Haussmann, Latin Quarter is also very historic and retains a prominent position among Paris’ best districts.

Table of Contents

A brief history of the Latin Quarter

Invaded by the Romans since the 16th century, the Latin Quarter has a rich past of over 2,000 years that can be examined. The district has become a nickname due to medieval students in the nearby Sorbonne University speaking primarily Latin in the mid-century, including Clergyman students walked the narrow alleys to converse on Latin. Despite extensive renovations throughout the 19th-century, some of the areas remain intact and a few of the vestiges are visible from the early Haussman periods. Located directly on the left bank of the Seine, the Latin Quartier covers many of the fifth and a few of the sixth districts in the City.

Latin Quarter Metro & RER Stations

Line 10 represents a significant metro line linking La Place Latine with the remainder of Paris. The route is to the west in Boulogne – Pont Saint Cloud, through Paris and ends at its most western destination Gare d ‘Austerlitz. Metro lines 7 traverse Paris north to south along a straight line between Mairie d’Ivry north and Villejuif-Louis Aragon south. The route ends at the Latin Quarter near places like Mongé, Jussieu or Censier/Daubenton. Lastly at Saint-Michel Saint-Denise, you can take subway 4 and RER B & B.

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1. Purchase a book at Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris, France

Visiting Shakespeare and Company sits at the top of our list of things to do in Latin Quarter Paris. Established in 1919, this renowned book store includes a café where you can enjoy a cup of an inexpensive coffee with views over the Notre Dame Cathedral nearby. Although it closed its original shop from 1919 during the Nazi invasion and never opened again, George Whitman revived the business by opening a new shop under the name in the 1950s. Eventually, a hub for writer’s work was built, and there are libraries on its first floor.

2. Admire Sorbonne University

It is probably a fitting fit that this part of the Latin Quarter has long been associated with students. Inside the courtyards of Sorbonne, you will see its students passing by from one building to another. Because of the number of students from Sorbonne in the Latin Quarter, the whole district has affordable restaurants and pubs that tourists can enjoy as well.

3. Visit the Paris Panthéon

Pantheon stands on a large avenue just like the buildings of its predecessor from the early 1800s. Construction began in 1789 a year before the French revolution. The former church was built to honor the patron of Paris, Saint Genevieve. Today its grave is behind the Pantheon but it also acts as a mausoleum. The Pantheon is also the burial site for Voltaire and Marie Curie.

4. . Wander around the Luxembourg Gardens

The Luxembourg Garden contains numerous architectural delights, including the Medici Fountain. Marie Medici commissioned it in 17th-century to create a private garden. The public garden today is built on a site designed as the garden of Pitti Palace, the Medici’s childhood home in Florence. On the paths through the trees, you’ll see joggers and groups of people on roller skates. Others relax in the green chairs that line the pond. Happy children sail colorful wooden toy boats, pushing them with poles. Luxembourg gardens boasts more than 100 sculptures. You will even find a small-scale replica of the American Statue of Liberty.

5. Go Shopping on Rue Mouffetard

In addition to being the oldest street in Paris, Rue Mouffetard is located in 5th arrondissement and is particularly famous for its many stores. This quaint street in the Latin Quarter has a range of shops that sells fresh produce, clothing, and books.

6. Visit Saint Etienne du Mont

Behind the Paris Pantheon is the equally impressive Church of Saint Etienne Du Mont. Its roots date back at least to the 6th century and it was associated with an ancient abandoned Abbey that had been destroyed. Today, it is a secular church building where you can find an impressive glass tomb, the burial of Paris’ patron Saint, Saint Genevieve.

7. Visit Abbey Bookshop

The popular bookshop is the only English language bookstore in the Latin Quarter, where you can find many discounted books. Once you make your way inside, you will find piles and piles of books for you to discover. All in all, Abbey Bookshop provides a unique book shopping experience is definitely an excellent secret spot in the Latin Quarter.

8. Marvel at the Église Saint-Éphrem-le-Syriaque

17 Rue des Carmes, 75005 Paris, France

The chapel dedicated to Sainte Ephrémy, situated between Paris Pantheon and River Seine . Built in the 14th-century, it is widely considered as one of the most beautiful Churches in Paris where classical music concerts also takes place.

9. Admire the Jardin des Plantes

57 Rue Cuvier, 75005 Paris, France

O ne of the biggest gardens in Paris is located in the Latin Quarter , next to the Museum for Natural History. Once a herbal and medicinal garden during the 16th century, the greenspace has now become a refuge from the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter. The ‘garden of plants’ comprises eleven distinct gardens and many greenhouses. Highlights include romantic gardens of flowers and roses, and the Jardin des Pinoyanes, and the Paris Natural History Museum that feature endangered and extinct species.

10. Grande Mosquée de Paris

The Grand Mosque is just a few steps from the Jardin des Plantes , which was built between 1922 and 1926. The mosque serves the local Muslims and provides travelers with a special experience and a unique cultural experience. The interiors of the Grand Mosque are a spectacular masterpiece in hispano-morris style. The prayer room boasts stunning carpets and the hammam replicates North African bathtubs with colourful ceramic tiles.

11. Visit the oldest tree in Paris at Square René-Viviani

The René Vivianisquare is home to what is claimed as the oldest tree in Paris, and sits in an old cemetery dating back from 1600. The Square René-Vivani is one of the most picturesque picnic spots on the city!

12. Eat a Cinnamon Bun at Circus Bakery

63 Rue Galande, 75005 Paris, France

You may want to try Circus Bakery when visiting the Latin Quarter . The newly opened Circus Bakery near the Seine provides delicious French style food. The most prominent item on the list is a cinnamon bun, but you may also find popular items like their jam, comté, and specialty coffee.

13. Boulevard Saint-Michel & Place Saint-Michel

Boulevard Saint-Michel offers a wide modern avenue designed by Haussmann during the 19th century. The area features eclectic bookstores, clothing, and cafés, and other student hangouts. The Saint-Michel is situated on Avenue Saint Michel, just steps from the Seine river.

14. Musée de Cluny (Musée national du Moyen-ge)

Cluny Museum is best known for its medieval tapestry collection, where the earliest tapestry in Flemish history is the Offrande de Couure, which was commissioned in the 15th century. The building sits on archaeological sites of Roman baths and was built by the Romans in the 12th and 17th centuries. One of the museum’s rooms is located within the remnants of a former Frigidarium.

15. Eglise Saint-Sevérin Saint-Nicolas

The Eglise Saint-Séverin Saint-Nicolas is considered to be one of the best Gothic architectural in France. With a dark sanctuary lit up with candle lights, the Church provides somber, spiritual ambience. This building is combines several styles, including an elaborate nave from the 12th century and stained glass windows from the 14th and the 15th. The interior includes the impressive columns with elaborately decorated capitals and bizarre keystone. St. Séverin Saint-Nicolas hosts regular classical organ recitals available for the public.

16. Arènes de Lutèce

The Arènes de Lutèce is located in an urban leafy greenery close to the Garden des Plantes, and is the remnant of an ancient amphitheater discovered in 1869. Wandering in the quiet area feels as though you discovered some mysterious treasure hidden for thousands of years. The Arènes de Lutèce was originally constructed at around 1 and 2nd centuries a.c., but later during a barbarian invasion in 285, the quarry was used to build defended walls in response to a barbarian invasion. Today, locals use the Arènes de Lutèce as a parkwhere kids play soccer. The site is open to the public daily (free of charge) from 8am until 6pm in the winter, with later hours in the spring and summer.

17. Place de l’Odeon

This elegant square is lined with beautiful old Parisian buildings. The most notable monuments in the square are Neoclassical “Tresor l’Ordéone”. The elegant 18th-century venue offers classic French theater productions including dramas by Molière and of Victor Hugo, and modern theater performances. It is also an ideal spot for socializing among residents in the area. Students enjoy relaxing in the arcade patio or steps of the theater during warm days. Tourists may enjoy walking the charming side of the Place d’Oréon and catching up with the trendy shops and trendy restaurants nearby.

Where to stay in the Latin Quarter?

The fiveth and sixth arrondissements offer lots of Paris attractions and have numerous connections to the rest of the city. This list of good hotel options in Latin Quarter (as determined by web reviews and locations), and other visit this Latin Quarter guide for the best accommodations & services.

Hotel Villa d’Estrées

This 4-star hotel near Fontaine SaintMichel and nearby Notre Dame has a huge number of online review reviews and has been highly recommended. This boutique hotel is near all the major attractions within the Latin Quartier. Get the best deals for you.

What is the Latin Quarter in Paris famous for?

The Latin Quarter is famous for bars and cabarets and houses Paradis Latin, a French-style cabaret created by Gustave Eiffel. Next to the Pantheon sits Saint Genevieve Library, the only independent public library on earth.

Is the Latin Quarter worth visiting in Paris?

Latin Quarter is a good place to stay in Paris. Thanks to the central location you’re close to major attractions including the Pantheon and Shakespeare and Company, and so you can get into an energetic nightlife scene right here.

Is the Latin Quarter in Paris a good place to stay?

La quarta del Latino. It is very central and is incredibly convenient to stay in Paris, close to everything. The city is also easily accessible from airports, the area is clean and beautiful. Look through the hotels below for the best value for money.

What is there to do in Latin Quarter at night?

The Latin Quarter is an excellent start to your evening at City Lights. The lighting in the neighbourhood is bright neon when it sets. You can simply stroll through Rue Mouffetard / Rue de Huchette and there are many clubs and bars to pick from.

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Hello there, thanks for stopping by! My name is Mick – nice to meet you here. I was born in Manila, grew up in Chicago, went to college in San Diego, and then worked for the French Government up until 2017.

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Paris - By month , Travel

15 lovely things to see in the Latin Quarter in Paris

Place de la Sorbonne - Picture by Guilhem Vellut on Wikimedia Commons

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1. the area of saint-michel fountain.

Saint-Michel Foutain – Source : Pixabay.com CC0

2. Along Rue de la Huchette

Rue de la Huchette with the Theatre de la Huchette – Picture by dalbera on Wikimedia Commons

3. The Cluny Museum of Middle Ages

The Hotel de Cluny and the Museum of Midlle Ages – Picture by Jebulon on Wikimedia Commons

4. Around the Sorbonne University

Rue Saint-Jacques and the recognizable towers of La Sorbonne – Picture by Gouts – Wikimedia Commons

5. The Pantheon

The Pantheon – Source : Pixabay.com CC0

6. The Gardens of Luxembourg

The Medici Fountain – Picture by Joe de Sousa on Wikimedia Commons

7. Rue Mouffetard

Rue Mouffetard – Photo by LPLT on Wikimedia Commons

8. The Roman ruins of Lutetia arenas

The Lutetia Amphitheater – Picture by ctj71081 on Wikimedia Commons

9. The Arabic landmarks

The Arab World Institute seen from the Seine – Picture by Guilhem Vellut on Wikimedia Commons

The gardens of Paris Great Mosque – Picture by Marc Cooper on Wikimedia Commons

10. The Botanical Gardens and the Natural History Museum

Perspective of the Botanical Gardens with the Natural History Museum in the background – Picture by Jastrow on Wikimedia Commons

11. Jardin des Plantes

DiscoA340 , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

12. Musée Curie

Guilhem wilko , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

13. Le Grande Mosquée de Paris

Madorielaoshi , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

14. Latin Quarter metro stations

Pedro Ribeiro Simões , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

15. Place de la Contrescarpe

Britchi Mirela , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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Nicolas enjoys long walks across the French Capital, and taking pictures of it along the way. Overtime, he has discovered many hidden gems he is now eager to share!

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Visiting the Latin Quarter

A lovely day in the cradle of paris.

The Latin Quarter is located on the Left Bank of the Seine, straddling parts of the 5th and 6th arrondissements, where the center of the Gallo-Roman city Lutetia ( Lutèce in French), the predecessor of Paris, was founded over 2000 years ago. It is renowned for its bustling and intellectual atmosphere. Indeed, it has been being the student district since the Sorbonne was built in 1253! What to do and visit in the Latin Quarter? Here are the must-see places in this quarter steeped in history.

Things to do during the day in the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter remains home to countless museums, so you could start your day with a visit to one of them.

Travel back in time to the Middle-Ages at the Musée de Cluny . Founded around the ancient remains of the Cluny thermal baths, this museum presents a wide collection of medieval objects and works of art. If you are more interested in science, go to the National Museum of Natural History. Be sure to see the mythical Grande Galerie de l’Évolution and its 7000 animal species. After your visit, you may stroll through the Jardin des Plantes which is a haven of greenery in the Latin Quarter. Another must-visit for those who are architecture enthusiasts is L’Institut du Monde arabe . Admire this contemporary building built by Jean Nouvel, and go inside if you would like to explore Arab civilization.

Linger in one of the mythical café-restaurants of the Latin Quarter. “ Les Deux Magots ” and its neighbor “ Le Café de Flore ” are legendary addresses in Paris because they were once frequented by famous writers and philosophers like Ernest Hemingway, Louis Aragon, Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.

The Latin Quarter can be easily visited on foot. Strolling along its maze of streets, squares and buildings is a good way to enjoy its historical charm. Walk in the lovely rue Saint-André des arts and rue de la Huchette . If you have time, also try to see rue Saint-Jacques which is supposed to be one of the oldest street in Paris. Rue Saint-Jacques intersects with rue Soufflot, which leads to the most emblematic monument of the Latin Quarter: the Pantheon . This impressive building is a mausoleum where rest important personalities who have marked the history of the French nation. Pierre and Marie Curie, Victor Hugo and Jean Moulin are among those buried there.

During your walk in the Latin Quarter, you may plan to go to 49 rue Monge, where you will find the Arènes de Lutèce . This place is a quiet small public garden, but it is also the remnant of an ancient Roman amphitheater.

Other architectural masterpieces are worth a visit in the Latin Quarter: the Sorbonne University , the Great Mosque of Paris and its minaret, the church of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre , which is one of the oldest in the French capital, and the church of Saint-Étienne-du-Mont where rests Sainte Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris.

Things to do in the evening in the Latin Quarter

To finish your day in the Latin Quarter, head toward the oldest cabaret in Paris and the only one cabaret on the Left Bank : the Paradis Latin . It is a magnificent place to enjoy a show in the Latin Quarter . Indeed, the Paradis Latin was built by Napoleon in 1803, and then rebuilt by Gustave Eiffel in 1889. It opens its doors six nights a week. Inside, you will attend a colorful, poetic and sensual show, “L’Oiseau Paradis”, directed by the famous French choreographer Kamel Ouali. You will have the opportunity to see the traditional high-kicks of the French Cancan dancers and to taste the cuisine of the Michelin-starred chef Guy Savoy, who has been creating the menus for the Paradis Latin’s dinner-shows since 2020.

For a last drink, you may go to the lively rue Mouffetard , to the Caveau de la Huchette , a mythical jazz club and temple of swing in Paris, or to the Piano Vache , a relaxed bar with a rock’n’roll spirit.

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Where to Stay and What to Do in the Latin Quarter, Paris, in 2024 + Maps

Hugo Kennedy Last Updated: September 26, 2023

Traveling to Paris is a dream for many or a beloved place to return to for others. It is the most visited city in the world with a wealth of options for accommodation and sights to see. However, sometimes with a plurality of options comes difficulties in making an informed decision about where to stay. These guides on Parisian neighborhoods hopefully will allow you to make that decision properly and get the most out of your trip. First up is the Latin Quarter, Paris, neighborhood guide!

Pro Tip: It’s easier to organize your trip when you have all your resources in one place. Create a browser folder and bookmark this post along with our dedicated guide to Paris and the Eiffel Tower to help you plan your trip. Also, check out our article on the best Paris tours .

Where is The Latin Quarter, Paris

Top things to see in the latin quarter: well-known and not., where to stay in the latin quarter, paris, the best restaurants in the latin quarter, paris, map of the latin quarter, paris, where to stay in paris.

The Latin Quarter of Paris is a fairly vaguely defined area covering parts of the 5th and 6th arrondissements. Consisting of the hill of Saint Genevieve, topped by the Pantheon. Bounded by the boulevard Saint Michel on one side and the Seine on the other side. It lies just south of the Ile de la Cité home of Notre Dame Cathedral. It is a neighborhood whose history is intimately tied to education, which is, of course, where the name of the neighborhood comes from. From the medieval language of instruction at the University of Paris. Latin!

In today’s Latin Quarter, what you will find is a buzzing area, especially up on the hill around the Pantheon. Behind this major sight, you can find the streets of Rue Descartes and Rue Mouffetard, which offer some of the most genuine quality eateries in the city.

Down below the hill in between the Boulevard Saint Germain and the river is Saint-Michel. While this part of the Latin Quarter has some cool sights to see (which I have spoken about a bit further down), the restaurants you will find here are, for the most part, some of the most touristy in the city. Your aim in Paris is, with some exceptions, to get yourself away from the major sites like Notre Dame for a great culinary experience!

For those looking for history, culture, and a buzzing atmosphere, the Latin Quarter is for you.

Best Hotels in the Latin Quarter

• Hanging out with Voltaire: Hôtel Les Dames du Panthéon
• Central Stay with a Bookshop : Hôtel Parc Saint-Séveri n
• Boutique Hotel Close to Everything : Maison Colbert 
• A Garden in Paris! : Hotel des Grandes Ecoles
• One of the Best Views in Paris : Les Rives de Notre-Dame

Top Things to See In The Latin Quarter

• The Pantheon
• Shakespeare and Company
• Musée de Cluny
• Saint Séverin

Not ready to book a tour? Check out our article on the Best Tours to Take in Paris and Why

1. Explore the Bookshops and Literary History of the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is home to the University of Paris, the third oldest university in Europe (some people dispute this, by the way, but historians are always arguing). For centuries this attracted some of the greatest minds to the neighborhood. People from Thomas Aquinas to Marie Curie have graced its streets. Combine with this thriving literary scene, it has attracted writers of all shapes to come. James Joyce. Ernest Hemingway. Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Including so many more who have lived here. As a result, they need books!

The most famous bookshop in the city is in the Latin Quarter, in the shape of Shakespeare and Company. It has connections to the writers of the Lost Generation from the 1920s as well as connections with the Beats of the 1950s. It has been through two incarnations, but the original one was set up by a lady from Baltimore called Sylvia Beach in 1919. The current incarnation (granted the name in the 1950s by Beach) was set up by George Whitman. His daughter still runs it.

There is, however, always a line outside of this bookshop, and it’s a major tourist draw. Go early or later in the evening, and you will have a better experience. Make sure to check out the Abbey Bookshop , just around the corner as well as San Francisco Books . Both of these are quality establishments and much quieter. Of course, running along the banks of the Seine are the Bouquinistes, selling books and pamphlets since before the French Revolution.

The Latin Quarter is the place to visit for all aspiring writers and literature enthusiasts for sure.

2. Pay Homage to French Heroes at the Pantheon

Apart from its many bookshops, the Latin Quarter is also home to some great museums and major sights. The most important of these is the Pantheon. The Pantheon houses the remains of the citizen heroes of France. It is basically the highest honor a citizen can attain to be buried inside. Here you will find Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas and Marie Curie. Louis Braille, who invented Braille, is interred with people like Josephine Baker and Voltaire. The list is a who’s who of interesting characters and well worth a visit.

3. Check Out the Latin Quarters Museums

Check out as well the Musée de Cluny, the medieval museum of the city. It has recently undergone a renovation which has made it an even better experience. While obviously, it takes a backseat to the behemoth museums of the Louvre and the Orsay, it is a fantastic experience. Whilst there, go and visit the ancient Roman bathhouse to explore Paris’s ancient past as well as see some of the most beautiful tapestries on earth. The Lady and the Unicorn series.

For those who have visited Paris before and want to see something a bit different, then the Musée de la préfecture de Police or the Police Museum is worth popping into. It’s free, and if you are feeling morbid, there you can have a look at an example of an icon of French history. La Guillotine.

4. Discover the Hidden Gems of the Latin Quarter, Paris

Saint Julien-le-Pauvre, is one of the oldest churches in the city, with a Romanesque vault (in a city of Gothic churches, this is fairly rare). It is home to the Greek Melkite Catholics, who have Greek Orthodox traditions but are in communion with the Pope in Rome. In the park is also the oldest tree in Paris! Planted in 1601.

Just around the corner from this church is the quite stunning late gothic church of Saint-Severin. It has gargoyles that are much older than those on Notre Dame (those were replaced in the 19th century) and some incredible interior decoration. They are presently restoring it to its former glory, and it is well worth popping into.

Towards the top of the hill, you can also find St Etienne du Mont. It contains the knuckle of Saint Genevieve, one of the patron saints of Paris as well as being the burial spot of the scientist Blaise Pascal. Have a look out the back door there, and you can see the remains of part of the old city wall, built in the late 12th century when Paris was basically only the Ile de la Cité and the hill of the Latin Quarter.

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Hôtel Les Dames du Panthéon | Hôtel Parc Saint-Séverin | Maison Colbert | Hotel des Grandes Ecoles | Les Rives de Notre-Dame

Not exactly what you’re looking for? Check out the free Where to Stay in Paris Guide.

Hanging out with Voltaire

Hôtel les dames du panthéon.

€€€ | Great view | 4 – Star | Perfect Location

This hotel has a great location in the Latin Quarter. As you will find on exploring the Latin Quarter, the best restaurants tend to be a bit further up the hill, away from the river and closer to the Pantheon. Overlooking the Pantheon not only gives you a fantastic view of one of the more impressive Parisian monuments but access to great restaurants. Also, imagine yourself sitting out on that balcony reading from any of the brilliant people who interred in the building. Voltaire is in there, and he apparently drank fifty cups of coffee a day. So you can sit and contemplate that fact while looking at his tomb with a cup of joe in hand.

Central Stay with a Bookshop

Hôtel parc saint-séverin.

€€€ | Nice view | Centrally Located | 4 – Star

The Hôtel Parc Saint-Séverin is just overlooking the really lovely church of Saint-Séverin. The terrace offers pretty great views of this late Gothic wonder. It is located on a quieter medieval street just right in the heart of the buzz of Saint-Michel. This means it is super central, it would be less than a five-minute walk to the Notre-Dame Cathedral and also to Shakespeare and Company. Make sure you check out the Abbey Bookshop on the same street, set up by a guy from Toronto in 1989! Makes it the unofficial Canadian bookshop of Paris. Good choice for a sightseeing stay, with fairly small rooms, but that is to be expected in Paris.

Boutique Hotel Close to Everything

Maison colbert.

€€ € €+ | Boutique | Recently Renovated | 5 – Star

Maison Colbert is a boutique hotel set inside a historic 19th-century bourgeois mansion. It is a 5-star hotel and part of the Meliá collection, so it has a price to match, but it has everything you would expect from that level. Honestly, for me, one of its main pluses is its location right beside Notre Dame. This means everything is within an easy walk, up into the Latin Quarter and the Pantheon or crossing the river towards the Marais. A great option at the higher end of the price range.

A Garden in Paris!

Hotel des grandes ecoles.

€€ | Great Value | Garden | 3 – Star

I really like this place. The rooms are serviceable and fairly small (again, getting huge rooms in Paris is not so common). However, it has a really nice location. It is on the same street where James Joyce and Ernest Hemingway used to live in the 1920s for literature lovers to visit. To go along with that, its location makes it a couple of minutes walk from the really charming Place de la Contrescarpe and Rue Mouffetard. It also has a garden! And a cat! Just a great option for a reasonable price.

One of the Best Views in Paris

Les rives de notre-dame.

€€ €€ | Unbelievable View | Central | 4 – Star

This place pops up quite a lot on recommendations, and it’s not really surprising. The view from some of the rooms here is quite fantastic. Looking out the window to the right, you have the Notre Dame Cathedral in all its glory (its glory is being renovated at the moment). Looking out to the left and you can see the impressive police prefecture and down the river towards the Louvre Museum. It’s also a very good hotel with clean, comfortable rooms and close to everything in the city center. Maybe a little noisy in the morning with the road down below, but the view makes up for it. Really good option.

Alliance | Le Grenier de Notre Dame | Le Coupe Chou | La Truffière | Le Cèdre | Les Pipos

The Latin Quarter contains some great restaurants, quality bars, and a thriving jazz scene. While those looking for more upscale establishments may wish to head down towards Saint Germain, the Latin quarter offers one of the nicest atmospheres in the city for socializing. It, over the years, has attracted literati, musicians, actors, and even lowly blog writers like myself. Below I have listed some of my top restaurants to visit and some great jazz clubs and theaters to brighten up any evening in Paris. You can also check out the full and free guide to the Best Restaurants in the Latin Quarter .

The Fine Dining Restaurant

This restaurant is just off the Quai de la Tournelle (a favorite haunt for Hemingway to buy books from the Bouquinistes) and opened its doors in 2015. Its cuisine is French, with a strong Japanese influence, as the chef is Japanese. Excellent choice for those looking for a fine dining experience in the Latin Quarter. Alliance has one Michelin star, and I would not be surprised if it is on the way to more in the future.

A Restaurant for the Vegetarian

Le grenier de notre-dame.

Paris traditionally is not the best spot in the world for vegetarians. Steak tartare. Boeuf Bourguignon. Hardly a vegetarian’s dream. This is changing somewhat, and more options are available. So why not go to (what they claim at least) to be the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the city? Literal steps away from the river banks overlooking the Cathedral, this restaurant maintains a really great quality and variety of veggie dishes. Definitely recommended, and still one of the best vegetarian restaurants in the city.

The Best Historic Restaurant

Le coupe chou.

Does anyone feel like dining in a building dating back to at least the 16th century? Well, I do, and this place is great. It is actually built on ancient Roman foundations, and the current restaurant was opened in the building in 1962. Nowadays, it offers French classics in a cozy setting with exposed wooden beams. A really nice place. They have a terrace for the summer, but if you happened to be exploring Paris in the winter to avoid the crowds, then this offers an inviting, warm place to sink into and enjoy. Fantastic!

The Best Jazz Club in the Latin Quarter

Caveau de la huchette.

For jazz aficionados, this place needs little introduction. It is one of the most famous jazz clubs in a city with some great options. Briefly featured in the film La La Land, it has attracted visitors from all over and continues to attract numerous locals. A really nice experience in an atmospheric environment. It is housed in a building with some fairly bloody French Revolutionary history, which you can explore! One of the most genuine and fun nights out in the city and one of my top recommendations in the Latin Quarter.

Best Theatre in the Latin Quarter

Théâtre de la huchette.

Just up the road from the Caveau de la Huchette is the really curious and fun Théâtre de la Huchette. It has been playing the same two plays by Eugene Ionesco, the absurdist Romanian playwright, since 1957. While I can imagine absurdist theatre is not for everyone, this makes for a really fun and weirdly unique evening. On a Wednesday evening, they project English subtitles above the stage. Not that that will help you really understand what is going on (it is absurd, after all). If you don’t speak French and you want an even more absurd evening, go and see it without the subtitles. You will emerge confused and charmed regardless of which option you choose!

The Latin Quarter lies just south of the Ile de la Cité. It is bounded by the river to the north, the Jardin des Plantes to the East, and the boulevard Saint Michel to the West. Further south lies the neighborhood of Montparnasse. In the Latin Quarter, you will find numerous public transport options, including the Metro lines 4, 7, 10, and the RER B. Buses run regularly through the neighborhood, and it is a short walk to Saint Germain and a 45-minute walk or 10-minute taxi ride to the Eiffel Tower.

With a city as magnificent as Paris, it can be hard to find the perfect hotel at the perfect price. Explore the best hotels and places to stay in these incredible neighborhoods in Paris.

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