Quartier Latin, Paris
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Latin Quarter (rue Mouffetard) - by Sophie Augustin on Unsplash
Description
The Latin Quarter (Quartier Latin) is an area on the left bank of Paris known for its bistro / restaurants and student life. There is no precise geographic perimeter and, depending on the source of information, it occupies most or the entire 5th arrondissement and occasionally some of the 6th as well. For the purpose of this review, we will define it loosely as the areas around Saint Michel, La Sorbonne and diagonally southeast until Place de la Contrescarpe/rue Mouffetard and the Arènes de Lutèce. The name simply originates from the Latin language that was widely spoken around the University during the Middle Ages.
Access & Transport
There are several convenient métro stations within the area itself: Saint Michel (4, REC C, RER B), Cluny La Sorbonne (10), Maubert-Mutualité (10) and Cardinal Lemoine (10). By bus, there are 3 major roads: Bd Saint Michel (section near the Seine), Bd Saint-Germain (between Bd Saint-Michelin and RUe Monge) and Rue Monge (until place Monge).
Instructions & Recommendations
We would recommend wearing comfortable shoes and criss-crossing the neighbourhood - it is a great place for lunch. You can take this opportunity to visit the Panthéon, Notre Dame de Paris just across the river or the Jardin des Plantes. Don't forget to browse through the bouquinistes stalls (2nd hand books) along the Seine riverbank.
Environmental & Social
Urban setting with little green spaces (excl. Jardin des Plantes) Balanced from a social perspective: the increased commercialization allows independent operators to earn a living and keep the historical legacy of the neighbourhoods going.
Conclusion
The Quartier Latin is one of the liveliest areas in the city with marked differences between the youthful and popular Saint Michel neighbourhood near the Seine and the much more upmarket Panthéon / Mouffetard / Monge neighbourhood. It is a Parisian microcosm and no visit to the capital is complete without visiting either this area or Saint-Germain-des-Prés (just west of Saint Michel).
Key positive
Variety of things to see and do
Quite central and easy to get to
Dynamic and enjoyable vibe
Key negative
Can feel a little touristy at times, especially the Saint Michel neighbourhood
Suitability
Suitable for all ages and visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Onsite
RESEARCHED IN
May 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 25m
est. visit time:2h 30m
Sunrise / early morningNo
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightOk
Night – aft. midnightNo