The Latin Quarter of Paris : a mythical place

inside the Panthéon

The Latin Quarter is a historical place, located on the left bank of the Seine.This location is famous for its intellectual and artistic life. It is a must visit place for travelers in search of culture and history. This is why we have to explore the different facets of one of the oldest districts of Paris and give you some tips to make the most of your visit.

The history of Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter takes its name from the use of Latin as a universal language in medieval universities. For centuries, since this time, it has been the center of education and of student life. Famous writers and intellectuals such as Ernest Hemingway, Simone de Beauvoir or Jean Paul Sartre frequented the cafés and bookstores of the neighborhood. Today, for students, artists and intellectuals the Latin Quarter is still a place of meeting.

How to spend my day in the Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter is an emblematic and ideal spot to hang out and discover a part of the attractions that the neighborhood offers. It is mainly located in the 5th arrondissement but also in the 6th arrondissement. The Mouffetard street in the 5th arrt is one the oldest and the liveliest cobbled pedestrian streets in Paris. The area has cafés, bistros, restaurants, craft shops and museums.

Don’t miss the Place de la Contrescarpe in the district, with its many cafes and restaurants. 

The Institut du Monde Arabe, located a stone’s throw from the Great Mosque of Paris and the Sorbonne, are very popular places to visit.

The Jardin des Plantes is a botanical garden created in the 17th century, where you can walk and relax.

In the 6th arrondissement, there are many bistros surrounding the Place d’Odéon. Odéon le Théâtre de l’Europe is the oldest theater monument in Europe to still operate in its original premises and the University of Paris Descartes.

In other words it is a pleasant and dynamic setting where life is good. 

For books’ lovers, this arrondissement of the Latin Quarter abounds with all kinds of bookstores that will make you happy : San Francisco Book Co, Gibert Joseph, Gibert Jeune or Librairie des Grands Caractères.

Where to get a snack ? 

The Latin Quarter houses a lot of quality restaurants and cafés. If you are looking for a location to enjoy a traditional French cuisine, take an appointment at La Jacobine. This restaurant is a former bakery created in 1626. For a culinary experience more contemporary try Le Cosi. This one proposes an inventive Mediterranean cuisine.The Latin Quarter is also well-known for its cafés such as the Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots in the 6th arrondissement . In these restaurants many artists and writers spent hours chatting and writing. These two places have managed to keep their charm and attract tourists who wish to experience a Parisian lifestyle.

The spot of all tastes

The Latin Quarter is a passionate and lively district of Paris that is worth discovering. From History to Gastronomy, it offers something for everyone. I hope this article made you want to discover this mythique place, leading you to the famous Quais de Seine. So, If you are in Paris, don’t miss the amazing Latin Quarter !