SEP 26, 2022
My go to in the 6th arrondissement de Paris, Saint-Germain-des-prés
by Anne-Marie Leduc
Even after a year, I still can’t believe that we live in the 6th arrondissement in Paris! My favorite Paris neighborhood, Saint-Germain-Des-Prés. I always had a preference for the left bank (that’s how we call the areas to the south of the River Seine). It's a totally different vibe than the right side, it is less crowded and more authentic. The 6th arrondissement has plenty of museums, theaters, churchs, concept shops, unique local boutiques and much more. Here is my go-to.
Le jardin du Luxembourg
This is my happy place in Paris. I find that the city can often be overwhelming with people, cars, noises and I like to take a break from it all in this beautiful place. The center of the garden is stunning to walk or lounge around on the green chairs available to everyone. In the summer there is an area where you can picnic on the grass. My favorite part to sit down is the side of the entrance from Guynemer street. It feels more private and relaxing. Don’t miss out on the great art - there are statues everywhere. Don’t miss the fontaine médicis.
Café de Flore
IIn my opinion, Café de Flore is a must when visiting Paris. It was a go-to place for a lot of famous poets, writers, artists in the old days, this café is full of rich history. Today, it does cater to rich tourists, but you don’t need to have a full meal to enjoy yourself. There is no shame in just grabbing a seat outside to order a chocolat chaud viennois (I love their rich hot chocolate), croissant and take your time to people watch. It is an experience in itself, it’s popular for a reason.
Fromagerie Barthelemy
This is the cutest and one of the best fromagerie that I know. Their selection of cheeses is incredible. They are masters at what they do and always have excellent recommendations. Don’t be afraid to try something new! It is not only a fromagerie but a little museum for the eyes. My favorite time to go is during christmas time, there is a huge line up of locals in front and it is the perfect french picture.
Rue Cherche-midi, Rue Grenelle, Rue du Bac
These streets are some of my favorites in Paris. Beautiful Hausmann architecture, shops, bakeries, restaurants, terasses… To name a few of my favorite spots, on Grenelle street you will find the Barthelemy cheese shop mentioned above. On rue du Bac you will find Pastavino, an Italian delicatessen with delicious fresh sandwiches to go. Sezane, a French clothing and accessories brand that Parisian womens love (the perfect gift place). Le Bon Marché and la Grande Épicerie. On rue du Cherche-midi you will find a bunch of good restaurants like Anima and Garçon.
BREIZH café Odéon
Odéon square is a great place to have a drink or eat. It has a cool Parisian vibe and you are surrounded by beautiful Haussmann buildings. We love the BREIZH café (they have several locations) for their Breton crepes and apple cider.
Rue Buci
This is a cool street to have something to drink after a long day or before going out for the night. La Maison Sauvage is a popular spot for cocktails and brunch.
La grande crèmerie
My favorite wine bar/restaurant so far. I like the cozy vibe, the rustic decor and the food is delicious. It is a small restaurant and always full. I recommend that you book in advance. It is a great place for a date or a small group of friends.
Malongo
This is a great spot for coffee lovers. I will have to trust my partner on this one since I am not a coffee drinker. It is a beautiful shop with fresh beans that you can ask to grind on the spot. They have a tone of flavors and a new one each month. They also have a barista corner where you can order coffees and patisseries.
Liberté our go to bakery/patisserie
For me, there is no such thing as the best croissant in Paris. Firstly because everyone has their preferences,secondly because it's Paris, and finally because freshness matters. We tried A LOT of bakery/pastry shops and did not find a bad one. Obviously don’t buy your croissants from grocery stores like Carrefour or Franprix! We love Liberté on Saint-André des arts for their chou à la crème, it is divine.
National School Of Fine Arts and the Bonaparte street
If you are staying in Paris for a few months or more, consider taking a session at Les Beaux-Arts de Paris. They have a lot of different art classes with outstanding teachers. I took drawing classes with live models for two semesters and it’s the best thing I did since I moved to Paris. The location is beautiful in front of the Seine river and at the corner of Bonaparte street which is very pretty and has a Ladurée.
Art galleries everywhere
There are countless art galleries in the 6th arrondissement as well as antique stores, theaters and cinemas.
The view from the famous pont des arts
One of the best views of Paris. This bridge is pedestrian only and goes from the Louvre to the beautiful France institute. You can see the Eiffel tower sparkle at night (sparkling lasts 5 minutes every hour, on the hour, between sunset and midnight).
Le bon marché
Technically in the 7th arrondissement, this is the best department store in Paris. Way less crowded than Galerie Lafayette on the other side of the bank. They have all the most popular brands at all price ranges. They also have numerous pop-up stores on different levels.
La grande épicerie
Next door to the Bon Marché, this grocery/bistro/home goods store is fabulous. This is the go-to place if you want to bring goodies back home. It has everything from a cheese corner, a boulangerie, a boutcher, a fish shop, takeaways food, sandwich bar, pasta bar where you can sit and eat to a beautiful flower shop. It is worth a visit.
