Exploring the Top Sights of the 6th Arrondissement of Paris

What Is The 6th District of Paris Known For?

If you are looking for one of the prettiest parts of Paris to spend some time in, then you need look no further than the 6th Arrondissement.  This district is host to one of the most beautiful gardens in Paris – Jardin du Luxembourg.

But that is not all that it has.  The 6th Arrondissement of Paris is also home to one of the city’s oldest churches – Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés as well as the famous Saint-Germain neighbourhood which was a literal haven for 20th century writers, artists and critical thinkers.

As a result, the modern-day 6th Arrondissement has become a top spot for its thriving shops and iconic cafés and bistros.

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Highlights of the 6th Arrondissement of Paris

Map of the 6th Arrondissement of Paris

✅ Make things easy and take a walking tour of this beautiful district. For a great introduction you can join a group and see all the major sights. Plus this tour is run by a local guide so you can ask for suggestions of where to eat and how to spend your time.

Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens)

What is the 6^th arrondissement in Paris most known for? Well, of course, yet another huge garden area – Luxembourg Garden. This one was voted one of Europe’s most beautiful, measuring 25 hectares and dates back to 1612 when it was commissioned by Queen Marie of Medici. 

The garden is immense, incorporating both English and French garden styles and is modelled after the Boboli Gardens in Florence.

There is so much to see here and if you want to take in everything, you need to dedicate a day just to enjoy all of your surroundings. We have been in different seasons and no matter the time of year it is a nice place to visit.

The large garden contains a forest, a pond, 106 statues, an apiary and greenhouses with orchids and roses. And that is just the botanical side of things – you can also play chess, tennis, cards or try remote control boats. 

All this is complemented by exhibitions of photography, painting and sculpture and visitors can enjoy concerts during the season. It is essentially an outdoor art and cultural centre.

This is one place you don’t want to miss when visiting the 6^th arrondissement of Paris.

✅ To receive an in-depth understanding of this beautiful garden and the structures within it, take a look at this small group tour that is perfect for learning about all the details you might just pass by.

Palais du Luxembourg

The historic Palais du Luxembourg, on the north end of the Luxembourg Gardens, was built in 1615 for Queen Marie de Medici.  While it initially served as a royal residence for many years, this impressive palace now serves as the seat of the Senate of France.

If you happen to be in Paris in September during the European Heritage Days, you may be lucky enough to visit the Senate as it opens its doors each year during this festival. But you need to book in advance to ensure your entrance.

Médici Fountain

Also located in the Jardin du Luxembourg is the famous Médici Fountain. The fountain was commissioned by Marie de Medici around 1630 and was initially referred to as the Luxembourg grotto. 

When it was restored after the Revolution a statue of Venus was added to the central niche.

The fountain was moved 30 metres closer to the Luxembourg when the Rue du Médici was constructed in the mid 1800s which is when the pool that stretches in front of the fountain was added.

A renovation of the fountain took place in 2021 to restore the statues and also to update the water system that feeds the fountain. It is quite a remarkable monument and adds to the Renaissance vibe of the gardens.

Eglise de Saint-Germain-des-Prés 

The 6th arrondissement is home to the oldest church in Paris whose history goes back to the middle of the 6th century.  Eglise de Saint Germain des Prés started out as an abbey when it was dedicated to the Holy Cross and Saint Vincent of Zaragoza on April 23, 558 AD. 

The church has a colourful history and has evolved considerably over the centuries from a tiny abbey to the magnificent structure that exists today.  Originally, the abbey served as a royal necropolis and the relics of Saint Germain, whom the church is currently named after, were venerated here.  

The church was rebuilt at the end of the 10th century including the western bell tower which is still intact today.  In fact, the first four levels of the tower are original and date back to around 1000 AD. 

Saint-Germain-des-Prés contains one of the first Gothic structures in France, the choir, which still exists today, was built in the middle of the 12th century.  It contributed to the spread of this architectural style throughout Europe and the world. 

During the Maurist reform of the mid 17th century, the abbey became a scholastic centre which lasted until the French Revolution when in 1792 it was turned into a factory for the production of saltpetre.  It stayed that way until 1803 when the church once again became a place of worship. 

The church was fully restored during the mid 1800s to repair the damage that had been done during the Revolution and was declared a historic monument in 1862.  

Recent restorations of the murals and nave of the church have been ongoing since 2021.  The Paris neighbourhood of Saint Germain des Prés, which is famous around the world, owes its significance to the magnificent church which has stood here since the birth of the city.

Saint Sulpice Church

While not nearly as old as Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Saint-Sulpice Church in the sixth arrondissement of Paris has the distinction of being the second largest church in the city, behind only Notre-Dame Cathedral.

While its cornerstone was first laid in 1646, the church took over 100 years to complete.  In fact, it was never really fully finished as is evidenced by its asymmetrical facade which has two towers, one much taller than the other.

The taller north tower was completed by Jean Chalgrin (who also designed the Arc de Triomphe) in 1780 and it was at this time that construction of the church was halted, so the shorter south tower was never finished.

The interior of the Baroque-style church contains the masterpieces of Eugène Delacroix, one of France’s most famous Romantic painters.  The works of art are two immense murals depicting biblical stories each more than 23 feet high.

Many of the chapels are being refurbished. It is a definite place for a return visit to see how the massive project is coming along.

Fans of Dan brown’s The DaVinci Code may recognize the interior of the church as some scenes from the movie were shot here.

Ladurée

While not officially considered a national monument or cultural site, Ladurée, the Paris pastry and tea shop famous for its French macarons, we think it definitely should be! We visited the one that is located just outside the Luxembourg Gardens in the 6th arrondissement and we were impressed with the level of artistic detail that goes into each delicious treat.

Laduerée is where the famous macaron was initially created and these treats are the best we have ever tried. There are so many different flavours your toughest decision will be which one to choose.

Since it was early spring and the weather was a little on the cool side, we decided to order a hot beverage to go with the famous macarons that this shop is known for.

Denis ordered a café crème and Kim opted for the decadent hot chocolate served from a flowing fountain of molten cocoa.  Each was topped with chocolate sprinkles formed in the logo of the Ladurée brand.  Kim was spellbound by her choice which she described as “like drinking a liquid chocolate bar”.

This is definitely a place we will come back to when we revisit Paris.

✅ Looking to experience more Parisian sweets? This 5 star walking tour takes small groups to hidden gems. Choose from a sweet or savoury itinerary and taste your way through the heart of Paris. A perfect way to explore the sights and enjoy the foods of the area.

Fontaine Saint Michel

The Fontaine Saint Michel is an iconic landmark that was built in 1860 and represents one of the few wall fountains in Paris.  It is an immense structure that stands 26 metres tall and 15 metres wide, somewhat resembling the Arch de Triomphe.  

The fountain features 4 Corinthian columns, 2 on each side of the central niche.  On top of each column is a statue representing one of the 4 virtues – Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance.  The niche contains a sculpture of the Archangel Michael wrestling with the devil.

Fontaine Saint-Michel overlooks an expansive square that bears the same name and looks out onto the quays of the left bank.  

We actually discovered the fountain by accident as we emerged from the nearby Saint-Michel Notre Dame metro station just across the street on a trip from the south of France.   The majestic fountain was hard to miss and we stopped to admire it for several minutes before proceeding to our hotel.

Pont des Arts

The Pont des Arts, built in 1801 to 1804, was the first iron bridge to be built across the Seine River.  It connects the Instiut de France on the Left Bank with the central plaza of the Louvre Museum. 

This pedestrian only bridge was made famous when it was known as the Love Lock Bridge because couples from around the world would attach padlocks to its iron fence as a sign of their eternal love.  It seems in France many bridges are synonymous with love – another example is the Ponts des Amours in Annecy that is another famous spot for lovers.

Well, so many locks were attached to the bridge’s railing that in 2015 a section of it collapsed from all of the added weight.  Since then, the railing has been replaced by sections of glass panels and it is now illegal to attach locks anywhere on the bridge.  

The view from the bridge along both sides of the Seine is quite spectacular and it is a great place to take photos.  We usually make it a point of crossing over this romantic icon of Paris whenever we visit the city.

Institut de France

The Insitut de France sits on the left bank of the Seine at the entrance to the Ponts des Arts.  This majestic building exemplifies French Neo-Classic architecture with its pillared facade and impressive dome.

The Institut de France was established in 1795 and brings together the 5 major academies of French arts and science – French Academy, Academy of Inscriptions and Belles-Lettres, Academy of Sciences, Academy of Fine Arts and Academy of Moral and Political Sciences. 

The purpose of the academy is to improve letters, sciences and arts, on a non-profit basis.  It is held in high regard and is under the protection of the President to maintain the heritage and history of France.

The building itself is quite majestic and even if you don’t get a chance to go inside, it is still worth taking in its magnificent architecture.  

Place de l’Odeon

The Place de l’Odeon, also referred to as Théâtre de l’Odeon, is best known by local Parisians as simply l’Odeon.  It has been an Institution in Paris since its inauguration in 1782 when it first began holding theatrical performances in a variety of genres. 

Originally built to seat nearly 2000 patrons, the current capacity of the theatre is only 700, making it a very intimate venue.

Today it is the hallmark of French theatre and continues to put on performances covering comedy, drama, tragedy and even thrillers.  

The Italian style building was destroyed by fire and rebuilt twice – once in 1799 and again in 1818.  The building was declared a historic monument in 1947 and is well worth a visit while you are in the 6th arrondissement.

Place de Furstemberg & Musée Delacroix

Place Furstemberg is a tiny plaza located in the heart of the Saint Germain des Prés neighbourhood on the very short Rue de Furstemberg.  It is a charming plaza with a small grouping of mature trees in its centre along with ornate lamposts that add to the ambiance of the square.

Eclectic boutiques surround the plaza as well as the original house of the famous French artist, Eugene Delacroix who lived at 6 Rue de Furstemberg.  This is where Delacroix lived out the last few years of his life as he painted the murals for the nearby Saint Sulpice Church.

Today, his apartment on Place de Furstemberg has become the Eugene Delacroix museum, dedicated to the famous painter’s incredible work.  When we visited, the museum was temporarily closed for renovation and a changing of his collection with a re-opening scheduled for July 2024.

Quai Malaquais – Bouquinistes

The Quai Malaquais stretches along the left bank of the Seine from Pont des Arts to Pont du Carrousel and forms part of the northern border of the 6th arrondissement.  A stroll along this stretch of boulevard provides great views of the Louvre across the river, Notre Dame on Îles de la Cité and the majestic buildings that line both shores of the iconic Seine.  

But one of the more unique features of this Quai is the long standing tradition of outdooor booksellers – les bouguinistes – who have been a fixture here since the 1700s.  The books are sold out of metal bookstalls which are closed up and locked at night, as has been done since the 19th century, when the bouqinistes were given special permission by the city to leave their inventory on the Quai.  

And there are books of every genre, with many one-of-a-kind editions and classic volumes that can be found for the determined book seeker.  

While there are bouquinistes on both sides of the Seine, the majority are found here on Quai Malaquais in the 6th arrondissement.

Famous Cafes

Paris is famous for its cafés with two of the most famous located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighbourhood.   And this is no surprise since this area was teeming with writers, painters, sculptors and philosophical thinkers during the 19th and 20th centuries.  The two world famous cafés that you will find in the 6th arrondissement are Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore.

Les Deux Magots

Les Deux Magots has been serving food and beverages since 1884 when it was converted from a silk and novelty store to a café and liquor bar.  From its very beginnings, it has catered to the literary and artistic community of Paris and has been the local favourite of Ernest Hemingway, Jean Paul Sartre, James Joyce and Pablo Picasso.

The interior has been maintained as a typical French bistro and has been featured in a number of films and television series. Inside you will see the two original statues that provide the namesake.

In 1933 it became the first café to award a literary prize – the Prix de Deux Magots – which entrenched its standing as a literary café and continues to be awarded today. This café was where Simone de Beauvoir wrote her novel “Les Mandarins” in 1954.

Today it is best known for its traditional hot chocolate served in ceramic pots.  It is located in the plaza near lÉglise Saint-Germain-des-Prés which makes it an ideal place to relax and watch the endless parade of people who walk past the terrace.

We enjoyed a wonderful lunch here with a charcuterie plate and some fresh rose wine. We sat on the patio and enjoyed the lovely atmosphere with a leisurely lunch in Paris.

Cafe de Flore

Less than one minute from Les Deux Magots, you will find the other great literary café of Paris  – Café de Flore.  Dating back to 1887, this location receives its name from a statue of the goddess of flowers that was located just across the street.

Take it for what it’s worth, but Café de Flore describes itself as the birthplace of Surrealism.  Many of the early Surrealists frequented this cafe including the same ones who spent time at les Deux Magots.   

During our lunch at this famous location, we had a nice bowl of french onion soup and a traditional baguette sandwich. Both were very nice and we enjoyed it from the patio while watching the world hurry by.

This is a pretty popular place so be prepared to wait in a queue to get in.

✅ If you are short on time and prefer to tailor your itinerary to your interests, check out this private walking tour of the 6th arrondissement of Paris. This 5 star tour gives you a taste of everything noteworthy in the district. A perfect way to enjoy a morning or afternoon.

FAQs

Where Is The 6th Arrondissement in Paris?

Tucked between the 7th arrondissement (home to the Eiffel Tower) to the west and the 5th arrondissement (Latin Quarter) to the East the 6th district also nudges the left bank of the River Seine.

It literally forms part of the downtown area and is in the heart of Paris.

Is The 6th Arrondissement Expensive?

The 6th arrondissement is one of the most expensive districts in Paris.  It is home to the exclusive exclusive neighbourhoods – Saint-Germain-des-Prés – and, as such, attracts many wealthy families. This means that many of the accommodations here can be on the higher end but you get what you pay for. But don’t worry, there are some reasonable options are available, perhaps with less amenities.

Is The 6th A Good Area In Paris?

The 6th is one of the best areas in Paris and well worth visiting.  There are many chic boutiques, and traditional cafés and it is home to one of the most beautiful gardens in Europe – the Luxembourg Gardens.

Is The 6th Arrondissement in Paris Safe?

Yes, the 6th arrondissement in Paris is considered one of the safest places in the city. Like any major city, you need to watch out for pick-pockets and use common sense when you are in crowded areas. 

Paris 6th Arrondissement Hotels

If you would like to stay in the district and are ok with not having a lot of available services, you can check out Royal Saint Germain. This hotel property has a great location within walking distance of everything and is also close to metro stops. The rooms are comfortable, quiet and clean. But don’t expect any frills.

Ideally located next to Luxembourg Gardens is the highly recommended hotel Bonsoir Madame. Here is a comfortable, family-run establishment with an onsite restaurant, bar and spa/fitness room. The staff (available 24 hours a day) is very friendly and helpful with all your needs while in Paris.

A 5-star option is the Hotel Le Six. This is a location with a more modern but charming interior. The rooms are clean and very comfortable. Guests mention how ideally located it is to the metro with easy access to shops and restaurants.

Another property with a perfect location is Hotel Aramis. Guests mention that the rooms are very clean, beds comfortable and the staff are friendly and helpful. It also has many bistros and cafes within close proximity making if convenient for dining.

6th Arrondissement Paris Restaurants

We had a wonderful meal at Bouillon Chartier – a bistro that dates back to 1903. The art nouveau style with intricate tile work is beautiful. There is a great selection of dishes and all were fresh and very tasty. The prices were very good (remember this is Paris). 

You will likely be seated at a table with other guests but this is a nice way to make new friends. Our suggestion is to arrive early as it is a very popular spot and usually has a long line up out front to get in.

Another French bistro with an eclectic decor style is Paris Pyla. Here you will find friendly staff and a nice atmosphere. The menu offers a wide selection including many traditional French dishes. The evening we were there it was dreary but the patio outside looked like it would be a nice spot in favourable weather.

The Final Word…On The 6th Arrondissement of Paris

If you want to spend the day living like a Parisian, then you definitely want to visit the 6th arrondissement of Paris.  This is where the heartbeat of the city can truly be felt.  From the historic churches, the beautiful gardens and the charming traditional cafés, you will experience the art, culture and culinary flavours that the city has to offer.  

When you visit Paris make sure that the 6th arrondissement is on your bucket list.