Saint-Germain des Prés, on Paris’s left bank, is the Paris everyone dreams of. It’s a bit like being on a movie set. Wondering about the best things to do in Saint Germain des Prés? This 2024 guide to Saint Germain des Pres leads you to all the treasures in this iconic part of Paris.
I lived on Paris’s left bank for eight months and wandered through Saint Germain des Prés countless times. I was enchanted by this quartier’s cobbled streets, unique boutiques, famed literary cafés, and tucked-away squares. Not to mention the majestic fountains, beautiful churches, and art galleries found in St Germain des Prés.
Quintessential Paris is found right here in Saint Germain des Prés so stroll to your heart’s content, people watch and feel Paris. You’ll walk away with a smile, knowing that “la vie est belle.”
29 Best Things To Do In Saint Germain des Prés Paris
One Of The Most Important Things To Do In Saint Germain des Prés
Of all the things to do in Saint Germain des Prés, wandering is the most important. The French equivalent of wandering or strolling is to “flâner.” It’s the best way to feel Paris. Slow down. Stroll. Wander. Turn in the opposite direction from the crowd. Observe. Read the plaques. Smell the roses.
St Germain des Prés, Paris is so enchanting and ripe for exploring. Pretend you are on that movie set. Don your beret and go! “Hop! Hop! Hop!” as the French would say. But, don’t pronounce the “h!”
What To Do in Saint Germain des Prés Tip: Suggested starting points for your wandering: rue de Seine, rue Bonaparte, rue Jacob, rue de Buci.
People Watch From Iconic Cafés
1. Les Deux Magots
Pick a table on the terrasse and feast your eyes. The people-watching hits an all-time high at Les Deux Magots, an iconic Parisian café. It’s the perfect place to sit with a café or a glass of wine and imagine literary giants like Simone de Beauvoir, Jean-Paul Sartre and Ernest Hemingway gathered right at your table. Les Deux Magots is definitely touristy but oh, so worth a stop.
- Address: 6 Pl. Saint Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Daily 7:30 AM to 1 AM
2. Café de Flore
Right next door to Les Deux Magots is Cafe de Flore. Another iconic literary café in the 6th arrondissement in Paris where the tourists line up in droves. Go on a weekend morning for a croissant and coffee and watch the locals. They love this café too. It’s also the perfect place for an apéro with a side order of people watching.
- Address: 172 Bd. Saint Germain, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Daily 7:30 AM to 1:30 AM
3. Ralph’s Coffee
The newest café in St Germain des Prés is Ralph’s Coffee found in the 17th century mansion of the Ralph Lauren Store. This cosy (as in tiny) coffee shop is as elegant as they come! Wood-panelled walls and the green marble fireplace set the atmosphere as well as the comfy chairs and hushed ambience. It’s quite a stunning experience. Be sure to browse around the chic Ralph Lauren store and perhaps linger for lunch at Ralph’s Restaurant in the stunning courtyard.
- Address: 173 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Weekdays 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Weekends 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Visit Historic Churches
4. Stop By Eglise Saint Germain des Pres
The bells chiming from Saint-Germain-des-Prés church, Paris’s oldest church, can be heard far and wide in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. Visiting this ancient church, its bell tower standing since the year 990, is one of the essential things to do in Saint Germain des Prés. The interior columns are painted and the celestial ceiling is dotted with golden stars and angels. Saint-Germain-des-Prés church is rather heavenly. Don’t miss the apse of the church where you’ll find arches dating from Roman times.
- Address: 3 Pl. Saint Germain des Prés, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: Open 24 hours; Sunday, Monday 9:30 AM to 8 PM
5. Explore Eglise Saint-Sulpice
One of the magnificent things to do in Saint Germain des Pres is to find a quiet moment in the Church of Saint-Sulplice Church. Eglise Saint-Sulpice, the second largest church in Paris after Notre Dame Cathedral, holds its fair share of treasures. Stand before Saint Sulpice and admire her soaring mismatched towers.
Stop by the Chapel of Angels, the first chapel on the right after you enter. Here you will find three masterpieces of Eugène Delacroix. The murals of Jacob Wrestling with the Angel and Heliodorus being driven From the Temple face each other and be sure to look up at the canvas on the ceiling for Saint Michael Slaying the Dragon.
Saint-Sulpice Church has one of the finest and largest organs in the world. It’s been accompanying services of all sorts since 1781. I can attest to its marvellous sound as I attended the Christmas Eve service in 2021.
- Address: 2 rue Palatine, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM to 8 PM
Where To Stay In Paris
Hotels In the 6th Arrondissement: Check out hotels in Saint-Germain here. This small family-run hotel is in the heart of Saint Germain. I stayed in this hotel before moving to Paris and loved its location so close to the Jardin du Luxembourg.
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
Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views: 21 Dreamy Hotels with Eiffel Tower Views
Homestays: 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.
Things To Do In Saint Germain des Prés For Museum Lovers
6. Luxembourg Museum
While strolling through the Luxembourg Gardens, stop by and visit France’s oldest public museum, the Musée du Luxembourg. The museum opened around 1750 and the paintings originally displayed now can be found at the Louvre. The Luxembourg Museum does not have a permanent collection but has wonderful temporary art exhibitions.
Just outside the museum is Angelina’s Paris where drinking luxuriant hot chocolate in the 6th arrondissement in Paris can be the highlight of the day!
- Address: 19 rue de Vaugirard, 75006 Paris
- Hours: The Musée de Luxembourg is only open during its exhibitions. During these periods it is open daily 10:30 AM to 7 PM and on Thursdays until 10 PM
- 2024 Exhibitions: March 13, 2024, to August 11, 2024 Design & Sport: A Story Looking to the Future
7. Eugène Delacroix Museum
Eugène Delacroix, leader of the French Romantic movement, lived in the 6th arrondissement in Paris. Step through the large doorways on Place de Furstenberg into Delacroix’s home and studio which is now the Musée Delacroix. Admire a collection of his paintings and stay awhile in the lovely secluded garden. Listen for the chiming bells of nearby Saint Germain des Prés Church. It’s a hidden gem and one of the special things to do in Saint Germain des Prés.
Delacroix’s work can also be seen at the Louvre (my favourite is Liberty Leading the People), the Musée d’Orsay, and in Eglise Saint-Sulpice.
- Address: 6 rue de Furstemburg, 75006 Paris
- Hours: The Delacroix Museum opens on March 27, 2024 after 6 months of renovation.
- 2024 Exhibitions: March 27, 2024, to June 10, 2024 Ingres and Delacroix: Artists’ Objets
8. Zadkine Museum
The Musée Atelier Zadkine is dedicated to Ossip Zadkine, the Russian cubist sculptor, who lived and worked in this house and studio for forty years. Throughout this lifetime, Zadkine produced sculptures in clay, stone, bronze, and wood. The small museum is dedicated to his life and work.
- Address: 100bis, rue d’Assas, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Daily 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Closed Mondays
- 2024 Exhibitions: until March 32, 2024 Chana Orloff: Sculptor of the Century
Read More | If you love museums, here is my list of fabulous Paris museums to add to your bucket list.
Gardens and Fountains In Saint Germain des Prés
9. Spend Time In The Luxembourg Gardens
One of the best things to do in Saint Germain des Prés is to while away some time in everybody’s favourite Paris garden, the Luxembourg Gardens. Sit by the octagonal pond (le Grand Bassin) and watch the children prodding antique sailboats across to the other side. Gaze at the French Senate housed in the magnificent Luxembourg Palace. Find the Queens of France statues, a riveting game of pétanque to watch, or pause by the magical Medici Fountain in the 6th arrondissement in Paris.
Read More | 12 Reasons to Visit the Luxembourg Gardens
10. Be Mesmerized By The Fountain of The Four Bishops
Stop under the chestnut trees by this elegant Renaissance fountain in front of Saint-Sulpice Church. Known as both the Saint Sulpice Fountain and the Fountain of the Four Bishops, it is 12 metres (40 feet) high with water cascading down stacked octagonal basins.
Four lions, looking rather ferocious, sit at the base of the fountain as if guarding it, each holding a Paris coat of arms between its paws. On each side of the fountain is a niche where a bishop sits, each carved by a different sculptor.
Beautiful Places To Linger
11. Linger On The Pont des Arts
One of the essential things to do in Saint Germain des Prés is to linger on the Pont des Arts. Spanning the Seine River in the heart of Paris this pedestrian bridge is unforgettable. Stand in the middle and admire the Institute of France (Institut de France)and the Louvre Museum. This bridge with its glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, houseboats, and Île de la Cité is not to be missed. Stand awhile on the Pont des Arts and watch Parisian life unfold. Artists sketching. Photoshoots. Movie Scenes. Lovers entangled. Musicians giving it their all. It is quintessential Paris.
12. Admire Place du Furstemberg
Everyone has seen photos of this place oozing Parisian charm! Tucked away in the 6th arrondissement in Paris is the most charming Place du Furstemberg. It’s perfect Paris with its lone elegant lamp post stealing the show in the centre. Stunning storefronts with their awnings and white shutters add to the ambience. Linger a little in Place du Furstemberg and smile. You’re in Paris!
13. Stop By Square Gabriel-Pierné
One of the important things to do in Saint Germain des Prés is to sit and relax in between all the exploring. Not far from the Seine River is the delightful Square Gabriel-Pierné. Named after the renowned French composer, this square is a hidden gem beloved by locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by historic buildings and a view of the Institut de France’s dome, Square Gabriel-Pierné is a delightful oasis in the 6th arrondissement of Paris. It is a lovely place to see cherry blossoms in full bloom!
14. Admire Picasso’s Statue
In the shadow of the Church of Saint Germain des Prés is the lovely green space, Square Laurent-Prache. Linger a little and ponder the bust by Pablo Picasso dedicated to Guillaume Apollinaire, the renowned French poet. It’s a bizarre story because the sculpture looks nothing like Guillaume Apollinaire and is, in fact, of Dora Maar, Picasso’s muse. Suffice it to say the three of them were close friends and frequented many of the nearby cafés. The statue was stolen at one point and some doubt that this is the original! One of the fun things to do in Saint Germain des Prés – ponder the stories!
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, and a skip-the-line ticket to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. And don’t forget Versailles and Disneyland!
St Germain des Prés For The Artsy
14. National School Of Fine Arts – Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Beaux Arts
The National School of Fine Arts, founded in 1671, with its busts standing guard is eye-catching. I walked past it on my way to a friend’s apartment a million times during confinement, determined to enter and see what was hiding behind the gate of this prestigious art school in the 6th arrondissement in Paris.
However, it is not open to the general public. Unless there is an exhibition.
Check for an exhibition because what lies behind the gate is a true treasure of Paris. Two treasures I discovered were a tranquil garden situated in an ancient cloister and the most magnificent of Art Nouveau exhibition halls lined with Roman statues.
- Address: 14 rue Bonaparte, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Vist the Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Beaux Art only during exhibitions
15. Hum A Tune By Charles Aznavour
Do you know Charles Aznavour? This famous French singer and songwriter was born in Paris on May 22, 1924, to immigrant parents of Armenian descent. A prolific singer, with more than 1200 songs to his name, he is a household name in France.
On the anniversary of his birthdate in 2021, a bust of Charles Aznavour was unveiled in Saint-Germain Paris. Perhaps you’ll find yourself humming “La Bohème” or “She,” two of his lengthy list of famous tunes as you stroll the charming streets of the 6th arrondissement in Paris.
16. Read Rimbaud On rue Férou
Who doesn’t like a poem written on a wall in elegant calligraphy? In the 6th arrondissement on rue Férou between L’Église Saint-Sulpice and the Jardin du Luxembourg, Arthur Rimbaud’s poem Le Bateau Ivre (The Drunken Boat) is inscribed for all to see. Rimbaud, a French poet, wrote this poem about a sea voyage in 1871 at the age of 16. He first recited Le Bateau Ivre in a café close to rue Férou.
17. See A Show At Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe
In between the Saint Sulpice Church and the Luxembourg Gardens pass by the semi-circular Place de l’Odéon where the oldest theatre monument in Europe still in operation stands. The elegant historical monument with its classical columns still has performances from Tuesdays through Sundays.
- Address: 2 rue Corneille, 75006 Paris
- Program: Odéon-Théâtre de l’Europe
Dine In St Germain des Prés
18. Le Polidor In The 6th Arrondissement In Paris
Having a meal at Le Polidor had been on my list for a while. Dining with the ghosts of Arthur Rimbaud, Victor Hugo and Ernest Hemingway is always a delight. But I also love the movie Midnight in Paris by Woody Allen. And here at the Polidor in the 6th arrondissement in Paris, Owen Wilson meets Ernest Hemingway.
Needless to say, Restaurant Polidor was founded in 1845 and makes for a great dining experience. Communal tables and classic French favourites are enjoyed in a charming ambience. Plus, you never know who you’ll meet at Le Polidor!
Address: 41 rue Monsieur le Prince, 75006 Paris
19. Saint-Germain des Prés: Dine At Le Procope
Here in the 6th arrondissement in Paris is the oldest café in continuous operation in Paris. Le Procope, found in the Cour du Commerce Saint-André, has been around since 1686 welcoming intellectuals, writers such as Voltaire, and regular Parisians. A brasserie with a traditional French menu, step into the magic of le Procope and enjoy a “téte de veau en cocotte” served just as it was in 1686! Be sure to check out their reasonable set menu for lunch (noon-7 pm).
Spend a bit of time wandering through the enchanting and cobbled Cour du Commerce Saint-André lined with quaint cafés, bistros, and small boutiques.
- Address: 13 rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Daily 12 PM to 12 AM
Read More | Ernest Hemingway spent a lot of time in Saint-Germain des Prés Paris. He and his first wife Hadley stayed in Room 14 at the Hôtel d’Angeterre (formerly Hôtel Jacob) on rue Jacob. Hemingway fans will love the Hemingway Bar. located in the Ritz Hotel.
20. Partake In A Gourmet Meal At Ferrandi Cooking School
One of the unique things to do in Saint Germain des Prés is have lunch at Ferrandi Cooking School, a world-renowned cooking establishment. There are two dining rooms where the chefs and servers practice their skills. Read my full article on the experience of having a nine-course déjeuner at Ferrandi. It’s an unforgettable gastronomic delight in Saint-Germain Paris.
- Address: 28 rue de l’Abbé Grégoire, 75006 Paris
Stop By Fantastic Pâtisseries
21. Savour Poilâne’s World-Famous Bread In Saint-Germain
The famous Poilâne bakery was started in 1932 by Pierre Poilâne. His granddaughter, Apollonia, carries on the family tradition of baking their famous round sourdough loaves with the letter “P” etched on top. Elegant and so delicious. Ask for what you need. At their storefront in the 6th arrondissement in Paris, they will happily sell you just a few slices of a loaf.
Don’t miss their well-loved “chausson aux pommes” (apple turnovers). Melt in your mouth delicious, especially when warm and featured in my Best Pâtisseries in Paris article!
Apollonia shares the secrets of the world-famous bakery here.
- Address: 8 rue du Cherche-Midi, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Monday to Saturday 7:15 AM to 8 AM
What To Do In Saint Germain des Prés For Shoppers
One of the most fun things to do in Saint Germain des Prés is shop! There is a wide range of shopping, unique and chic boutiques for everyone’s taste and a lovely selection of art and antique shops
22. Peruse Art And Antique Boutiques
Saint-Germain des Prés is fantastic for perusing. Slow down. Stroll. If you are an art lover, wander down rue des Beaux-Arts and rue de Seine and gaze at the marvellous window displays. Don’t be surprised if you walk away with a little art treasure from the 6th arrondissement in Paris!
23. Shop At Le Bon Marché
Le Bon Marché, the classiest of Paris’s department stores, is in the 7th arrondissement and still part of Saint-Germain des Prés! The villages of Paris and the arrondissements do not always abide by the same boundaries. I love browsing the upscale and quality range of products at Le Bon Marché. If you are visiting Paris in January and June, don’t miss the sales!
- Address: 24 rue de Sévres, 75007 Paris
- Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:00 AM to 7:45 PM, Sundays 11:00 AM to 7:45 PM
24. For Francophiles – the Perfect Paris Memento
One of the best things to do in Saint Germain des Prés for Francophiles is to stop by the boutique, Les Merveilles de Marin Montagut. There is something just so enchanting and elegant about their collections in fabric, glass, porcelain, and paper. What will you bring home?
- Address: 48 rue Madame, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Monday to Saturday 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM
25. The Ultimate in Unique Shops To Browse
I love popping into the Librairie Alain Brieux. It specializes in strange objects, scientific instruments, medical “things” and botanical prints. It’s small boutiques like the Librairie Alain Brieux, that remind me that I’m in Paris. I can be fascinated and curious at the drop of a hat and find a unique gift for anyone!
- Address: 48 rue Jacob, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Monday to Saturday 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM; 2 PM to 6:30 PM
26. The Most Normal Shop
Of all the things to do in Saint Germain des Prés you would never expect a pharmacy to be listed. But the CityPharma is a hot spot! It’s worth having a look around. Situated on three levels and full of great deals, CityPharma is hopping with locals and tourists alike! How much extra room is in your suitcase?
- Address: 26 rue du Four, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Monday to Friday 8:30 AM to 9 PM; Saturday 9 AM to 9 PM; Sunday 12 AM to 8 PM
Have An Apéro In Saint Germain des Prés
It goes without saying that one of the things to do in Saint Germain des Prés is to have an apéro. There are an incredible number of cafés and bars in St Germain. Here are a couple of the best spots.
27. Have A Drink On rue de Buci
Rue de Buci just bumps. Head over at lunch or catch the after-work crowd and the activity level sizzles. I love heading straight to Maison Sauvage. With flowers cascading down the outer walls of this restaurant, it’s easy to find. The drinks and food are great and the people watching is super!
Hang out a bit on rue de Buci, pop into one of the many cafés and boutiques, or lose yourself in the unique Taschen bookstore (one of my favourite Paris bookstores).
- Address: 5 rue de Buci, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Daily 7:00 AM to 2 AM; No reservations
28. Get A Taste Of Island Life At La Rhumerie
You guessed it! If you are looking for lively things to do in Saint Germain des Prés stop by La Rhumerie! For more than 90 years La Rhumerie has been serving rum-based cocktails amidst an ambience of the Caribbean, the Antilles to be exact. Sunday and Monday nights are jazz nights from 8:30 to 10:30. Will you be there?
- Address: 166 Bd. Saint-Germain, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Sunday & Monday 11:00 AM to 12 AM; Tuesday & Wednesday 11:00 AM to 1 AM; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday 11:00 AM to 2 AM
29. Have A Drink At La Palette
La Palette is a legendary establishment that dates back to 1902. This historic bar has long been a gathering place for intellectuals and artists. And it still is. Sit a while on the outdoor terrace and observe Parisian life. It’s the ultimate in people-watching!
- Address: 43 rue de Seine, 75006 Paris
- Hours: Daily 8:00 AM to 2 AM; No reservations
FAQ: Saint Germain des Prés
Is St Germain des Prés worth visiting?
Absolutely! St Germain des Prés is unquestionably worth visiting for its rich history, vibrant atmosphere, and cultural delights. This iconic Parisian neighbourhood exudes charm with its lively cafés and historic buildings. Not to mention the cobblestone streets and unique boutiques! With its chic yet bohemian ambience, Saint Germain des Prés captures the essence of Paris.
How far is Saint Germain des Prés to the Eiffel Tower?
From the métro station Saint Germain des Pres, the Eiffel Tower is a 45-minute walk. The métro (line 4 and then line 6) will take 30 minutes. Alternatively, take Bus #86.
What else is there to see near Saint Germain des Prés?
Saint-Germain des Prés is on the left bank of Paris and is tucked in between the 7th arrondissement, the Latin Quarter, and the 14th arrondissement. Saint-Germain runs right to the Seine River.
Highlights near St Germain des Prés include:
- walking along the Seine (10-minute walk from Saint Germain des Prés métro station)
- the Eiffel Tower (45-minute walk)
- the Panthéon (20-minute walk)
- les Invalides (30-minute walk
- rue du Bac (11-minute walk)
Saint Germain des Prés is a 15-minute walk from the Louvre Museum which is on the right bank. Head towards the Seine River and cross the Pont des Arts or Pont du Carrousel.
What are the best things to do in Saint Germain des Prés in a half-day?
The best things to do in Saint Germain des Prés in a half-day are to sit at an iconic café, visit the Church of Saint-Germain des Prés, and stroll along rue de Seine and rue de Buci. Walk up to Saint-Sulpice Church, up rue Férou and to the gorgeous Luxembourg Gardens.
How do I spend a day in Saint Germain des Prés?
Get off at the Saint-Germain metro station and start your day at Place Saint Germain des Prés. Have a coffee and croissant at Les Deux Magots. Visit the Church of Saint Germain des Prés, Place du Furstemburg and stroll along rue Jacob, rue de Seine and rue de Buci. Have a leisurely lunch at Le Procope and soak up the ambience of this café that has been operating since 1686. Walk to Saint-Sulpice Church, sit at the fountain of the Four Bishops, walk up rue Férou and spend a while exploring the Luxembourg Gardens. Have an apéro at La Palette and arrive for your dinner reservation at Aux Prés, one of Cyril Lignac’s famed restaurants.
I hope you enjoy these best things to do in Saint Germain des Prés Paris as much as I have. It’s still my favourite neighborhood to explore in Paris.
Until next time,
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