Best Things to Do in Saint-Germain-des-Prés: Complete Guide

TL;DR — Saint-Germain-des-Prés

• One of Paris’s most iconic Left Bank neighborhoods, known for history, culture, and café life
• Home to major landmarks like Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Saint-Sulpice, and Jardin du Luxembourg
• Famous cafés such as Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore shaped Paris’s literary and intellectual scene
• Strong cultural offer with museums, theaters, galleries, and independent bookshops
• Excellent shopping, from Le Bon Marché and La Grande Épicerie to local markets and boutiques
• Compact, walkable area blending historic charm, dining, shopping, and quiet corners

Explore the Historic Heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The historic core of Saint-Germain-des-Prés takes you on a remarkable experience through Paris's past. This neighborhood in the heart of the 6th arrondissement preserves centuries of French history with its remarkable churches and charming squares.

Visit the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés

The Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés has stood proudly since the 6th century and holds the honor of being the oldest church in Paris. The original structure was part of a major Benedictine abbey that Childebert I, son of Clovis, founded in 558. This historic sanctuary has seen nearly 1,500 years of Parisian history.

The abbey complex sat outside the medieval walls of Paris in the fields and meadows of the Left Bank (hence the name "des Prés"). It grew into a vital center of scholarship and manuscript production. The church became the final resting place for Merovingian rulers and welcomed foreign royalty, including King Edward I of England in 1286.

The church's architecture blends various styles beautifully. One of France's oldest Romanesque bell towers catches your eye as you approach. The interior shows a unique mix of Romanesque arches with Gothic vaulting—evidence of its continuous development across centuries. Vibrant frescoes cover the walls and arches, restored in the 19th century under artist Hippolyte Flandrin's direction. These add life to this ancient space.

Admire the architecture of Église Saint-Sulpice

A short walk brings you to Église Saint-Sulpice, the second-largest church in Paris after Notre-Dame. Workers began building this magnificent structure in 1646. Construction lasted over a century, creating an impressive mix of architectural styles.

The church's grand façade features two towers—though they're not quite similar. The right tower remains unfinished and hollow inside. The impressive west front, which Servandoni designed with inspiration from Christopher Wren's Saint Paul's Cathedral in London, shows elegant double columns arranged in Ionic order over Roman Doric.

Sunlight streams through large arched windows, highlighting countless treasures inside. The enormous shell halves (Tridacna gigas) serve as holy water fonts. The Venetian Republic gave these to King Francis I, and Jean-Baptiste Pigalle mounted them on rock-like bases. The Chapel of the Holy Angels showcases masterful murals by Eugène Delacroix from 1855 to 1861, including "Jacob Wrestling with the Angel" and "Heliodorus Driven from the Temple".

Music lovers can hear the famous Great Organ, built in 1781, during Sunday morning Mass or occasional afternoon concerts.

Stroll through Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés captures the neighborhood's spirit perfectly. This charming square sits at the area's heart, embodying the essence of Parisian charm.

The square provides easy access to iconic cafés like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, which face it across Boulevard Saint-Germain. These historic spots once hosted philosophical debates between intellectuals like Jean-Paul Sartre and drew artistic giants such as Ernest Hemingway and Picasso.

Nearby Rue Jacob beckons with beautiful bookshops and galleries. A turn onto Rue Fürstenberg reveals what many call one of Paris's most charming squares. This former abbey courtyard has become a delightful urban space with a single five-light lamppost surrounded by four paulownia trees.

Cafés, Bistros, and the Best Restaurants in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Saint-Germain-des-Prés serves up a delightful mix of history and food that captivates both history lovers and food enthusiasts. The neighborhood's restaurants tell Paris's food story through its historic cafés where great minds gathered and cozy bistros that serve authentic French dishes.

Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore

Boulevard Saint-Germain houses these two iconic cafés just steps from each other. Les Deux Magots, 1812 old and moved to its current spot in 1873, got its name from two Chinese figurines (magots) that still keep watch over guests. Poor artists and writers flocked here during the 1920s and 1930s. They sought warmth and good conversation.

Café de Flore opened its doors in 1887 just a block away, sparking what locals call a "rivalry" between these two spots. Jean-Paul Sartre made this café his office from 9 AM until noon. He would return after lunch with Simone de Beauvoir and stay until dinner. These cafés were at the heart of the existentialist movement in Paris.

These cafés give you a front-row seat to Parisian life. Start your day with a café crème and tartine, or warm up with their legendary hot chocolate during winter.

Chez Fernand and Brasserie Lipp

Chez Fernand on rue Christine brings authentic comfort food to life in a cozy space with red-and-white checkered tablecloths. This bistro's beef bourguignon keeps locals coming back. The meat melts in your mouth. The wine list impresses with over 1,300 options, and the staff speaks both French and English.

Brasserie Lipp, a Parisian staple since 1880, sits nearby. The staff might seem direct but they're quick and efficient. Lipp's special daily menu, Le Semainier, changes throughout the week. Black-pepper steak or poached haddock in beurre blanc appears on Mondays, while Thursdays belong to cassoulet lovers.

Try a macaron at Pierre Hermé or Ladurée

Parisians and tourists alike debate the merits of Pierre Hermé versus Ladurée macarons. Pierre Hermé worked at Ladurée before starting his own brand. He treats sugar like salt and creates unexpected flavor combinations. His Saint-Germain shop on Rue Bonaparte holds special significance as his second location.

Ladurée sticks to timeless flavors like vanilla, chocolate, and pistachio. Chocolate experts often prefer Pierre Hermé's deeper flavors and smoother textures. All the same, both shops represent the best of Parisian macaron craftsmanship.

Enjoy seafood at Huguette

Huguette brings the seaside to Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This vibrant seafood spot sits at rue de Seine and rue de Buci, creating a summer beach vibe. Fresh seafood arrives daily, and doors stay open from noon until 23:30, extending to 2 AM.

Picture a harbor bistro right in Paris's heart. Huguette's menu shines with garlic butter frog legs, perfectly seasoned mussels, and impressive shellfish platters. The casual, cheerful atmosphere works just as well for long lunches as it does for late dinners.

Hidden gems for wine and cheese lovers

Saint-Germain holds some special spots for wine and cheese fans beyond the tourist trail. Augustin Marchand d'Vins runs a simple but excellent cave-à-manger. Knowledgeable staff help you explore natural wines paired with fantastic cheese and charcuterie.

Freddy's on rue Seine welcomes you with wines and small plates from a seasonal chalkboard menu. Solo travelers and small groups find it especially welcoming. Sunday and Monday visitors appreciate it even more since many other places close.

Family-run bistros that span generations offer authentic French wine and cheese experiences. These places stock extensive wine lists featuring small producers. Many bottles come from organic or biodynamic vineyards, and prices stay reasonable.

Where to Stay in Saint-Germain-des-Prés

For travelers who want to stay right in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris Vacation Rentals offers a curated selection of centrally located apartments in this area and nearby Left Bank streets. These apartments are ideal for visitors who want to explore cafés, museums, shops, and gardens on foot while enjoying more space and privacy than a hotel. Staying in Saint-Germain allows easy access to the Louvre, Notre-Dame, the Seine, and Luxembourg Gardens, making it one of the most practical and atmospheric bases in Paris.

Museums, Art, and Cultural Highlights

Saint-Germain-des-Prés has more than historic churches and famous cafés. The neighborhood's impressive cultural institutions keep its artistic legacy alive. Visitors can explore small museums and historic venues that have shaped Paris's cultural life for centuries.

Musée Eugène Delacroix

The Musée Eugène Delacroix sits quietly on Rue Furstemberg, in the celebrated romantic painter's final home and studio. The Society of Friends of Eugène Delacroix (including artists like Maurice Denis and Paul Signac) established this small museum in 1932 and saved Delacroix's workspace from destruction. The Louvre Museum took it under its wing in 2004.

Visitors can see masterpieces like Mary Magdalene in the Desert (Baudelaire's favorite), The Education of the Virgin, and the fresco Bacchus with a Tiger. The current exhibition "Delacroix. A Place, an Artist" (January 10–September 6, 2026) shows rare archival documents and sketches that reveal the artist's personal side.

The garden offers a peaceful escape where you can admire the studio's façade that Delacroix had built to his exact specifications. The museum's website states, "When it opened in 1932, 'the Delacroix studio' was conceived by the first president of the Société des Amis, painter Maurice Denis, as 'an ideal illustration of the Journal'".

Musée du Luxembourg

The Musée du Luxembourg stands out as the first public art museum in 1750. It later became the first contemporary art museum in 1818. The museum moved from the Palais du Luxembourg to the Orangery in Luxembourg Gardens in 1886.

The museum now hosts two temporary exhibitions each year. These focus on 20th-century modernity, women artists, and photography. From February 18 to July 19, 2026, you can explore an exhibition about Leonora Carrington, an avant-garde artist who mixed surrealism, mythology, and spiritual exploration in her work.

Théâtre de l'Odéon

Architects Peyre and de Wailly built the Théâtre de l'Odéon in 1782. It's now one of France's six national theaters. Fires destroyed it twice in 1799 and 1818, but it rose again each time. This neoclassical building once held 1913 spectators but now seats about 800.

The theater offers a rich mix of classical and contemporary shows. English speakers will appreciate that some performances come with English surtitles. The theater's neoclassical facade is a testament to its historical significance.

Librairie des Femmes and other literary spots

Librairie des Femmes serves as a unique cultural hub in central Paris that specializes in women authors' works. Customers love its big selection of books of all types, from novels to children's literature. The store's warm atmosphere and the core team's expertise create a welcoming space for readers looking for diverse voices that traditional bookstores often miss.

Book lovers will find another gem at L'Écume des Pages, just steps from Café de Flore. This independent bookshop stays open late and offers French and international titles, art books, and beautiful stationery in a cozy, softly lit space.

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Shopping and Markets in the 6th Arrondissement

Saint-Germain-des-Prés showcases its refined character through historic department stores, bustling markets, and unique boutiques.

Founded in 1852, Le Bon Marché has become Paris's most sophisticated department store. Shoppers enjoy a more relaxed experience here compared to the busy Right Bank stores. Celebrities quietly browse the ground floor's collection of makeup, perfume, and accessories. Glamorous labels, trendy designers, and Le Soulier shoe department with Europe's finest footwear fill the upper floors.

La Grande Épicerie sits right across the street and serves as a luxury food lover's paradise. This culinary wonderland spans 3,000 square feet and features nearly 30,000 meticulously displayed products. Award-winning chefs, bakers, and chocolatiers create their masterpieces right before your eyes. The basement wine cellar stocks an amazing selection that makes perfect gourmet gifts.

Marché Saint-Germain

Hotel Trianon Rive Gauche guests can walk to this covered market that captures Paris's essence and heritage. Marché Saint-Germain comes alive with vibrant stalls and lively conversations between passionate vendors and curious shoppers. Market hours run Tuesday through Saturday 8am-8pm, with Sunday mornings until 1:30pm.

Rue de Buci and Rue Jacob

Rue de Buci teems with local shops, fashion boutiques, and gourmet grocery stores. Cafes and restaurants line this pedestrian street with bustling terraces perfect for watching the world go by. Rue de Jacob draws visitors with its specialist bookshops, luxury furnishing stores, and art galleries filled with antiques and paintings.

Citypharma for French skincare

Citypharma at 26 rue du Four sells French beauty products at prices up to 70% lower than other stores. Locals and tourists flock to this Saint-Germain discount parapharmacy. The best time to visit is when doors open (8:30am weekdays, 9am Saturdays). Remember your passport if spending over 175€ to claim duty-free refunds.

Art galleries and antique shops

Saint-Germain-des-Prés boasts prestigious galleries that specialize in antique prints. The Martinez family has dealt in estampes anciennes for more than five decades. Galerie Martinez - Estampes Anciennes displays prints by theme and era. The Carré Rive Gauche district features exceptional galleries that sell everything from masterpiece paintings to rare medieval treasures.

Relaxing Walks and Hidden Corners

The peaceful spaces of Saint-Germain-des-Prés welcome you after a day of learning about museums and boutiques. This neighborhood has quiet gardens and hidden corners that make a perfect escape from the busy city life.

Jardin du Luxembourg

Queen Marie de Medici created this beautiful 25-hectare garden in 1612 between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter. The garden takes its inspiration from Florence's Boboli Gardens and has both French and English sections divided by a geometric forest and a large ornamental pond. You'll find 106 statues across the grounds and the stunning Medici fountain from 1630. The garden isn't just about natural beauty - kids can enjoy puppets, rides, and slides while adults play chess, tennis, bridge, or sail remote-controlled boats.

Square Félix Desruelles

A small green space sits between Saint-Germain-des-Prés Church and Boulevard Saint-Germain since 1872. The square bears sculptor Félix-Alexandre Desruelles's name and features Louis Barrias's statue of Bernard Palissy. The square's crown jewel is the beautiful Art Nouveau portico on a neighboring building's gable wall. The Manufacture de Sèvres created this ceramic masterpiece for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, with detailed blue and brown patterns leading to a central medallion.

Rue Férou and Place de Furstenberg

Place de Furstenberg stands as one of Paris's most picturesque spots, though it's actually a street (rue de Furstenberg). Photographers love capturing its three pawlonia trees (once four) arranged around a central lamppost with five globes. Eugene Delacroix made this place his home from 1857 until 1863, and his former house now serves as the Musée Delacroix. The square lies within the old Saint-Germain-des-Prés Abbey's grounds from the 6th century.

Pont des Arts and Seine river strolls

The pedestrian-only Pont des Arts gives you unbroken views of Paris as it links the Louver to the Institut de France. Napoleon Bonaparte commissioned Paris's first metal bridge here between 1802-1804, designed with nine arches. The current seven-arch structure dates from 1981-1984, built after damage from both World Wars and a partial collapse in 1979. Artists, photographers, and picnickers gather at this "studio en Plein air" for its special viewpoint. The bridge earned its spot on UNESCO's World Heritage Site list in 1991 and remains a favorite among Parisians and visitors alike for its simple beauty and atmosphere.

Key Takeaways

Discover the essential experiences that make Saint-Germain-des-Prés one of Paris's most beloved neighborhoods, from historic landmarks to culinary treasures.

• Visit the Church of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris's oldest church dating from the 6th century, featuring unique Romanesque and Gothic architecture.
• Experience iconic café culture at Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore, where famous intellectuals like Sartre and Hemingway once gathered.
• Shop at Le Bon Marché and La Grande Épicerie for luxury goods and gourmet foods, plus visit Citypharma for discounted French skincare.
• Explore intimate cultural gems like Musée Delacroix and stroll through the 25-hectare Jardin du Luxembourg for peaceful respite.
• Wander charming hidden corners like Place de Furstenberg and Pont des Arts for authentic Parisian atmosphere and stunning views.

The neighborhood's compact, walkable layout makes it perfect for spontaneous discoveries, allowing visitors to experience centuries of history, world-class dining, elegant shopping, and peaceful gardens all within minutes of each other. This unique blend of historic significance and contemporary sophistication truly captures the essence of Parisian culture.

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