A Walk in the Latin Quarter in Paris

A Walk in the Latin Quarter in Paris

Paris’ left bank is known for being prime real estate for walking tours. From the architecture to the street scenes, there is enough to see without ever having to venture inside of a property at all. 

The Latin Quarter, in particular, is a feast for the eyes when explored on foot. This is one of to go-to zones for first timers in Paris, who want to get a feel for what local Parisian life is really like. 

The History of Paris’ Latin Quarter

The ‘Latin Quarter’ was dubbed as such way back in the middle ages. This occurred because the area was home to Paris’ University La Sorbonne, which essentially made it a student town. At that time, Latin was the language of study, and thus the Latin Quarter was born. 

Paris’ Latin Quarter – by Ninara – Wikimedia Commons

It is widely felt that students from that time through to the present day have had a myriad of influence over the city at large. During the 19th and 20th centuries, it has usually been the students who band together to organize political movements of great importance. 

Top 5 Bars in the Latin Quarter

If something in France needs to change, it is most likely to ignite here. This energy adds to what makes the Latin Quarter such a significant place to explore by walking, as one can really grasp the feel of the culture and street life. 

Things to See in Paris’ Latin Quarter 

When exploring on foot, there are a number of notable monuments one should try to pass by. For the most part, the entire Latin Quarter can be sufficiently explored in under a day, with time for brunch and lunch taken in between of course. 

The district is made up of a cluster of small and very charming cross streets. To meander them, no matter the season, is so wonderfully French that you’ll feel like somewhat of a local within minutes. 

The Pantheon

Not to be confused by the very well known Pantheon in Rome, Paris’ Pantheon was built far more recently — the 1700s to be exact. 

The Pantheon in Paris – by Cabby – Wikimedia Commons

During the mid 1700s, King Louis XV got very ill, and it was unlikely that he would survive. When he did, he was so over the moon that he decided to build a church in honor of St. Genevieve. This occurred on the same location where the Pantheon now stands in the Latin Quarter. 

Interesting Facts About the Pantheon in Paris

The Shakespeare and Company Bookstore

Paris’ most iconic independent bookstore, Shakespeare and Company is a hybrid bookstore and sells both new and used literature. It’s safe to call this spot the most famous English literature bookstore in the whole of France. 

Shakespeare and Company – by ssedro – Wikimedia Commons

Shakespeare and Company is a hybrid bookstore and sells both new and used literature. It’s safe to call this spot the most famous English literature bookstore in the whole of France.

Jardin des Planets in Paris

The Jardin des Plantes, or the Botanical Garden of Paris, is a large garden ground that takes up a significant portion of the 5th arrondissement. It is situated right up against the Seine in the Latin Quarter, and is a popular tourist attraction in this neighborhood. 

Jardin des Plantes – by stefi123 – Wikimedia Commons

Paris’ Botanical Garden is over 357 years old. It was founded in 1640 for the sole purpose of being a land on which the official doctor of the king of France could grow medicinal herbs for said king.

The Great Mosque of Paris 

Few people know about this gem of a landmark, located in the Latin Quarter. This is one of the largest and oldest mosques in Europe, and is officially the oldest in Paris.  

The Great Mosque of Paris – by Cédric Sicot – Wikimedia Commons

During the horrors of the Holocaust, the mosque served as a shelter to save Jews who needed help. Today, all are welcome to explore this gargantuan Moroccan-style mosque, right next to the Jardin des Plants. 

The Natural History Museum in Paris

Paris’ Natural History Museum is one of the most noteworthy landmarks in all of the city. More than this, it is one of the most enjoyable places to visit with children, so travelers from all over the world tend to want to stop here to take advantage of the entertainment.

10 Lovely Things to See in the Latin Quarter

Cafes in The Latin Quarter

This area also happens to be an abundant zone for charming cafes and restaurants. As you explore on foot, take time to stop by a few, even if just for a refreshing cup of tea and a freshly baked croissant. 

Paris’ Latin Quarter – by Ninara – Wikimedia Commons

Some of my personal favorite cafes include:

• Loulou
• Jozi Cafe
• The cafe attached to Shakespeare and Co. Bookstore
• DOSE cafe
• The Coutume Institute

The Best Cafes in the Latin Quarter

Where to Start a Walk in the Latin Quarter?

This is a great question, and a walk through any Parisian neighborhood always feels better when time and distance has been optimized. 

In my opinion, it is best to start at the Saint-Michel Notre-Dame metro stop, which is where the Notre Dame area technically morphs into the Latin Quarter. From here, it’s a short walk to attractions such as the Shakespeare and Co. Bookstore, the university streets, the Paris Pantheon and eventually the botanical gardens.