Curator’s statement
Of all the areas of Paris, Saint-Germain-des-Prés is the most quintessential Parisian neighborhood. Located on the Left Bank of the Seine River, this area is walkable and full of history, charm, shopping, and dining. Choosing to stay in this area means you are centrally located to all of the top Paris sites. If you are staying elsewhere in the city, be sure to spend a day walking this iconic neighborhood. Here are some things I love to do here.
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Where to stay in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
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Things to do in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
Buci News on Rue Buci
Walk: This neighborhood is very walkable. Taking a stroll down the streets of Saint Germain is like walking through an old foreign film. Romance and history around every corner.
Shop: There are so many places to pop in and purchase the perfect gift. Check out Buci News for stationary and paper goods and Barthélémy Fromagerie for delicious cheeses.
Skincare shopping tips: If you are looking for French skincare products, head over the CityPharma. Don’t try to navigate all of the products on your own. You will see many people in white lab coats ready to assist you. They are so friendly and knowledgable. Have your passport ready, because when you check out they will help you with the VAT tax refund process. The cashiers are well-trained on how to help you with this. Don’t forget to bring your own tote bag with you to carry your goodies.
See: Don't miss architectural treasures such as Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés or Eglise Saint-Sulpice. History tip: Be on the lookout for bronze medallions embedded in the streets. They are called Arago Medallions. They mark the line France used as its own meridian for navigation and maps prior to the world adopting the Greenwich line in 1884.
Places to eat & drink in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
Brasserie Lipp
Dinner options where I recommend having reservations:
Chez Fernand Christine
Le Jardin Saint-Germain
La Jacobine (Pro tip: They do not offer online reservations and they don’t usually answer the phone. Best way to get a reservation here is to pop in a few days before and make your reservation in person).
The iconic three:
Although Les Deux Magots and Café Flore tend to be more well-known, I prefer Brasserie Lipp right across the street. My grandparents frequented this café every time they went to Paris. So, it holds special significance to me.
Other recommendations:
Le Procope: Oldest café in Paris on a quint alleyway
Chocolat Chapon: Rich chocolate mousse
Bubble Bliss: Champagne tasting
Huitrerie Régis or Huguette Bistro de la Mer: Oysters
Need to know
When you finish strolling the cobblestone streets of Saint-Germain-des-Pres, don't forget to walk over to the Luxembourg Gardens and check out the beautiful Medici Fountain.
Travel Advisor
Adore Travel LLC
Laura Wells
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