Paris is one of those places with an undeniable allure that keeps tourists coming back for more. There are many neighborhoods and areas in the City of Love that pique curiosity, and without a doubt, one of the most charming and authentic is the Latin Quarter of Paris.
If you’ve heard of it, you probably know it’s often called the ultimate student district. In fact, the term “Latin” originates from the use of Latin as an academic language among students in past centuries.
The Latin Quarter lies between Paris’ 5th and 6th arrondissements, in the heart of the city along the left bank of the Seine. It’s the ideal spot to linger, with everything you could need nearby: universities, theaters, cinemas, restaurants, bookstores, concert halls, churches, parks, and museums.
Keep reading to discover everything you’ll encounter while strolling through its charming streets.
What to see in the Latin Quarter of Paris?
Our first tip is to let yourself get a bit lost in the Latin Quarter in Paris—it’s worth it! This area is full of quaint little streets, bustling nightlife, and plenty of shops and eateries.
Below is a list (which you can also check on the city map to help orient yourself) of the must-visit spots:
1. The Sorbonne University
Who hasn’t heard of Paris’ most historic university? It has maintained its prestige since the 12th century. Today, it offers studies in Law, Economics, Social Sciences, Philosophy, Geography, and History.
The university in the Latin Quarter offers guided tours from Monday to Friday and on some Saturdays. We highly recommend them, so you can admire the beauty of its interior. In the 1970s, various universities branched off from the historic Sorbonne, many of which are still located in the Latin Quarter.
Take a leisurely walk here, immersing yourself in university life, photographing the historic facades, and enjoying the campus and its gardens.
The area is also full of budget-friendly hotels in Paris with breakfast included, as well as affordable apartments and restaurants (from low-cost hostels to luxurious multi-star hotels), making it easy to explore this central neighborhood.
2. The Pantheon of Paris
This is a neoclassical monument in France, whose construction began in the 18th century. It is also known as the Church of Saint Genevieve of Paris. Inside, you’ll find the resting place of 65 prominent figures in French history. The walls bear the names of over a thousand people who have played a significant role in the history of the French Republic.
The Pantheon also contains two plaques honoring French writers who perished in the world wars. In the crypt, two additional plaques commemorate those who died in the 1830 and 1858 revolutions. The structure’s tower features a renowned vaulted ceiling.
In 2002, Alexandre Dumas’ tomb was transferred here. Today, the Pantheon is no longer a church or religious site. It is located on Rue Clotilde in one of the most important squares of the capital.
For those interested in French history and architecture, the Pantheon offers a profound insight into the nation’s past and serves as a tribute to its most celebrated figures.
This monument is located in the Place du Panthéon, which is also home to several other notable buildings: the historic Sainte-Geneviève Library, various buildings of the University of Paris, and the Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church.
Currently, climbing the tower isn’t allowed, but the view from inside the Pantheon is stunning. Admission is free, and if you have the Paris Pass, you can skip the lines.
3. Luxembourg Gardens
On one side of the Latin Quarter, you’ll find this beautiful park dating back to the 17th century. Today, it’s one of the most famous gardens in Paris, and although privately owned, it’s open to the public.
It’s the ideal spot for a quiet stroll and to relax amidst nature. The park is home to a vast array of plants and flowers and also features several ponds, fountains, sculptures, and a café. Other activities include puppet shows, pony rides, and live music.
Within the park stands the Luxembourg Palace, also built in the 17th century, which currently serves as the seat of the French Senate. Due to its governmental role, visits to the palace are only possible with special permission from a senator.
4. Cluny Museum, or the Museum of the Middle Ages
When you approach this building, you’ll be captivated by its charm. This museum has a long and storied past. Roman baths were built on this very site in the 1st century, and they still remain to this day.
Inside, the museum houses an extensive collection of works and artifacts ranging from the Roman period to the Middle Ages. Notably, it features some of the world’s most complete collections of medieval art, including the renowned “Lady and the Unicorn” tapestries. The collection is mainly composed of goldsmith work, ivories, sculptures, tapestries, and stained glass.
What to see in the museum?
- The “Lady and the Unicorn” tapestries
- Medieval sculptures
- Medieval stained glass
- Ruins of the Roman baths
If you’re interested in museums and natural history, you might also want to visit the National Museum of Natural History. This museum features galleries of botany, evolution, anatomy, paleontology, geology, and mineralogy. Next to it is the Jardin des Plantes, an extensive botanical garden with a zoo, a hedge maze, alpine plants, 18th-century trees, and a rose garden with over a hundred varieties of European roses.
5. Saint-Sulpice Church
This is one of the largest churches in Paris, second only to the Notre Dame Cathedral. Saint-Sulpice is designed in the Baroque architectural style, located in the 6th arrondissement, and is dedicated to Saint Sulpicius the Pious.
Built over more than a century (starting in 1646 under architect Christophe Gamard), Saint-Sulpice Church is a must-visit site that has witnessed several significant events in Paris’ history, including royal weddings and noble baptisms. It has gained further fame in recent years for its appearance in the novel The Da Vinci Code.
Highlights of your visit should include the exterior facade, the southern tower (which is open to the public and can be climbed), the gnomon (an astronomical instrument to determine the time of day), the baptismal font, and the spectacular organ that dominates the main nave.
If you’d like to explore the church’s interior, Saint-Sulpice is open daily from 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM. Keep in mind that tours pause during mass, so you might want to check the schedule in advance.
6. Collège des Bernardins
The Collège des Bernardins is another gem in the Latin Quarter. Founded in the 13th century by Cistercian monks, it has been fully restored and now serves as a cultural and educational center, hosting conferences, art exhibitions, and public lectures. This historic institution is a fascinating place to learn about the intellectual heritage of medieval Paris.
We continue our tour of must-see spots in the Latin Quarter of Paris with the Collège des Bernardins, a popular building of medieval Cistercian architecture that today has been converted into an important cultural center open to the public.
Founded in 1248 by Stephen of Lexington, the abbot of Clairvaux Monastery, the college was expropriated during the French Revolution, losing its religious function and serving as a prison and storage space. After this period of decline, it was restored in 2008 as a center dedicated to culture and spirituality, where ideas can be freely exchanged.
Notable features of the Collège include the refectory (featuring a vaulted ceiling), the Chapter Room (where monks would gather to discuss important matters), the cloister (though renovated, as the original no longer exists), and the art exhibitions frequently held in its halls and corridors.
7. Rue Mouffetard
Next on our list is one of the most picturesque streets in Paris’ historic core, Rue Mouffetard, where you can experience authentic Parisian life. Locals shop at markets and small stores here, and many stop by the cafés for a break.
While strolling along this street, be sure to visit the Rue Mouffetard Market, one of the oldest in the city, where you can buy fresh products ranging from fruits and vegetables to cheeses, meats, and seafood (open daily except Mondays).
In addition, check out the variety of shops and boutiques on both sides of the street offering clothing and souvenirs. If you need a break, there are plenty of cafés where you can enjoy a croissant and a drink.
8. Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church
We previously mentioned this French church, one of the most important in the city, largely because it houses the remains of Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris.
Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church stands out for its architectural styles, combining late Gothic and Renaissance elements. The western facade exemplifies French Renaissance style, with elegant details and abundant ornamentation. The main entrance features striking columns and carved reliefs.
Inside, the pulpit is a noteworthy feature, crafted in wood and adorned with biblical scene carvings. Take time to appreciate the stained glass windows of sacred art as well as the windows of the choir and central apse.
Other notable churches in the Latin Quarter include:
Church of the Sorbonne: This church served as the chapel for the university of the same name. The building we see today is a reconstruction from several centuries ago and houses the tomb of the famed Cardinal Richelieu.
Saint-Séverin Church: Considered one of the most beautiful churches in Paris by some, it is notable for its medieval bells, dating back to the early 15th century. It features Gothic architecture and 20th-century stained glass windows representing the seven sacraments. Here’s a great tour of Notre Dame and Saint-Séverin we recommend.
9. Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
Located in the Latin Quarter of Paris, Shakespeare and Company is the city’s most famous bookstore. As you can see in the photo above, its fame isn’t due to its size, beauty, or uniqueness. Its importance lies in what it represented in the last century—a gathering place for writers and artists of the caliber of Ernest Hemingway, James Joyce, and Gertrude Stein.
The bookstore continues to be a beloved literary hub, hosting readings and events that attract authors and book lovers from around the world, preserving its legacy as an iconic cultural institution in Paris.
The bookstore is located directly across from Notre-Dame Cathedral, and most of its books are in English. It also hosts literary events, readings, and workshops. The bookstore’s highly recognizable facade in green and gold tones, with signs and event notices, has appeared in many films.
If you step inside, you’ll find wooden shelves reaching from floor to ceiling, filled with new and second-hand books. Upstairs, there’s a reading room where visitors can enjoy a quiet reading environment, complete with a collection of vintage typewriters.
One of the bookstore’s most unique traditions is its “Tumbleweed” program. Visiting writers and artists can stay temporarily in the bookstore in exchange for a few hours of work.
10. Arènes de Lutèce
Finally, let’s talk about the Arènes de Lutèce, a place you might overlook if you’re not aware of its significance. This site contains Roman archaeological remains, such as the ancient amphitheater visible in the photo above, which once held over 15,000 spectators and hosted gladiator and animal fights.
The central arena, which remains well-preserved, is now used for soccer games. You should also take a look at the stands and the underground chambers accessible from the arena’s sides.
Take some time to stroll through the surrounding gardens and read the information panels detailing the history of this unique place.
Bonus: Theaters in the Latin Quarter
The most popular Parisian theater here is the Odéon Theater, a neoclassical building inaugurated in the late 18th century, offering both classic and contemporary performances.
Other theaters in the Latin Quarter include the Vieux Colombier Theater, the Huchette Theater, and the famous Paradis Latin cabaret, which opened in 1809.
The Paradis Latin is a must-visit during any trip to Paris, offering a fun and unique evening experience, though it’s intended for adults.
You can visit the Paradis Latin website for current show prices. It’s easy to find with a map, as it’s located near the Pierre and Marie Curie University on Rue du Cardinal Lemoine.
Best Tours of the Latin Quarter
If you’d like a guided tour of the Latin Quarter in Paris, consider booking one of these activities:
4-Hour Bike Tour of Paris: New Routes
This nearly 4-hour bike tour covers the main sights in both the Latin Quarter and the Marais district. The itinerary is as follows:
Starting at 10:00 a.m. in Saint Michel Square, you’ll see monuments in the area, including the Latin Quarter, the Pantheon, Le Marais, and the Shakespeare and Company bookstore. For more details, check the link here.
Free Tour of the Latin Quarter of Paris
This tour is highly recommended, as you only pay what you think it’s worth. During the tour, you’ll visit popular sites like the Shakespeare and Company bookstore, Saint-Séverin Church, explore the Sorbonne Square, and finish almost 4 hours later in the Luxembourg Gardens.
This free tour of the Latin Quarter is very popular among tourists. For more information, see the link here.
Paris: Macaron and French Pastry Class
This unique activity is more than a typical Latin Quarter tour; here, you’ll learn to make authentic French pastries. The 2-hour class specifically focuses on crafting the famous French macaron.
All ingredients and kitchen tools are provided. For more details, visit the link here.
Best Budget Hotels in the Latin Quarter of Paris
Here are some of the top budget-friendly hotels in Paris’ Latin Quarter:
1. Hôtel Des Mines
If you’re looking for accommodation in the Latin Quarter of Paris, this hotel is worth considering. It may not be the most visually stunning or luxurious, but it’s ideal for a comfortable night’s stay, close to numerous points of interest in the area.
Rates are usually under 80 euros per night, making it a popular option among apartments in the Latin Quarter of Paris.
This hotel in the Latin Quarter is well-known for its affordability, with rooms typically priced below 80 euros per night. It’s a highly frequented choice, located just 300 meters from Jardin des Plantes and a short walk from Notre Dame.
Its rooms feature classic decor, making it one of the most economical hotels in Paris’ Latin Quarter.
3. Hotel Claude Bernard Saint-Germain
This elegant and understated hotel is ideal for business travelers or anyone seeking a quiet and relaxing stay. It’s one of the affordable hotels in the Latin Quarter of Paris that’s highly popular with tourists year-round.
Rates are under 100 euros per night, and it has recently been renovated.
Possibly the best value-for-money hotel in Paris. Even in high season, prices stay below 90 euros per night. Its excellent location—less than 50 meters from the nearest metro station—adds to its appeal.
This 3-star hotel usually offers free cancellation in advance.
If you have any questions about what to see or need more information, feel free to reach out through our contact form on the site or on social media, such as Twitter and Facebook.
As you can see, knowing how to navigate the Latin Quarter of Paris is essential, as it’s a must-visit area full of charm. This large district is home to many monuments, points of interest, and vibrant spots that every visitor to France’s capital should experience.