The Saint-Michel quarter hinges on the 5th and 6th districts of Paris. Its name derives from the bridge and boulevard Saint Michel, two locations very well known by Parisians. Spreading itself over a part of the Latin quarter, it is a place of history and heritage where tourists and Parisians meet. So I’ve gathered here for you all the places you must see, things to do and places to eat and sleep in the Saint-Michel quarter.
Table of Contents
First, let’s locate them on the map:
What to See and do in the Saint-Michel Quarter
The Saint-Michel Fountain
Place Saint-Michel, 75006 Paris
Overlooking the Place Saint-Michel, this fountain (that gets its name from the quarter itself) is really a place of interest of the 6th district of the capital.
With its grand statue of the archangel Saint-Michel fighting a dragon, the fountain is the representation of good and evil.
Facing the Seine, the fountain is listed as an historical monument. It has marble columns, and several statues of which two are impressive chimeras whose mouths gush water from the fountain.
So come visit the heart of the Saint-Michel quarter by stopping at this indispensable place of Paris. This is also where the metro station Saint-Michel is located.
The Narrowest Street of Paris
Rue du Chat-Qui-Pêche, 75005 Paris
If you want to go off the beaten path, pass by the narrowest street of Paris. Beginning at the very lively Rue de la Huchette, it takes you to the banks of Saint-Michel – from which you will admire the Seine and the Île de la Cité.
This street was built in 1540 and has known many name changes before becoming the Rue du Chat-qui-Pêche (‘the street of the cat who fishes’).
This unique street name is subject to numerous interpretations and legends.
The most famous one relates that a man had a cat who could catch fish from the Seine.
Three students, skeptical and thinking that this was a sign from the devil, decided to throw the cat in the Parisian river.
Imagine their surprise when the man appeared with the cat by his side a few days later!
So pop by this unusual narrow street of Paris during your walk on the banks of the Seine.
Visit the Cluny Museum
28 Rue du Sommerard, 75005 Paris
Only 5 minutes away from the Saint-Michel fountain, depart for the Middle Ages with the Cluny Museum in which you will be able to admire some work dating back to the first century of our era!
Numerous exhibitions are planned regularly in addition to the permanent pieces of art of the museum.
Children will also be able to be taken into the medieval world thanks to themed workshops.
They will learn the art of stained-glass, the art of calligraphy and be able to take an interest in the coats of arms of that period as well.
Price:
- €12 full price
- Reduced price from €10
- Free admission every first Sunday of the month
- For more information, visit the official website
Walk Around the Banks of the Seine
A walk around the banks, what is more Parisian than this? With the Saint-Michel quarter being located on the left bank of the river Seine, you will enjoy being there to admire the view of the river and the Île de la Cité.
From the Saint-Michel bank, you will have an unobstructed view on the very famous Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris as well as the opportunity to discover the Bouquinistes of Paris.
In the green boxes located along the riverbank of the Seine, you will find various old and more recent second-hand books as well as postcards, reviews and posters.
It is a typical symbol of Paris and so you will have the opportunity to bring back home a unique souvenir of your stay in this quarter.
Visit the Saint-Séverin Church
11 rue des prêtres Saint-Séverin, 75005 Paris
Come and discover the Saint-Séverin Church, the most significant and oldest on the left bank.
This church was built in the 6th century and then reconstructed in the 13th and 15th centuries.
You will find a heterogeneous blend of different styles added over the centuries.
This diversity is especially evident in the sanctuary’s stained glass windows, with traditional 14th-century windows alongside modern ones.
You can also enjoy its garden.
Take a break in the Square René Viviani
25 quai de Montebello, 75005 Paris
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Come relax at René Viviani Square for a little nature break right in the heart of Paris.
This park, overlooking Notre-Dame, has the oldest tree in Paris, a robinia planted in 1601, as well as a beautiful bronze fountain surrounded by flower beds.
There are plenty of benches for you to sit and rest before continuing your journey.
Watch a movie in the Saint-André des Arts theater
30 rue Saint-André des Arts, 75006 Paris
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Love artistic films? The Saint-André des Arts cinema is perfect for you.
Located just steps away from the Saint-Michel Fountain, this independent cinema offers a diverse range of art-house films.
You can discover exclusive works at this cinema, and with its three screening rooms, you’ll enjoy a selection of films that you can find on the cinema’s website.
Prices:
- €9.50 for regular admission
- €7.50 for discounted admission
- €5 for those under 15 years old
Wander in Shakespeare and Company’s aisles
37 rue de la Bûcherie, 75005 Paris
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Whether you want to settle down for reading a book or simply do some window shopping, head over to Shakespeare and Company.
A true Parisian institution, this famous English-language bookstore and library offers a wonderful selection of books.
The eclectic and vintage decor of the shop invites you to wander and travel, making it a perfect spot for relaxation for book lovers.
From the terrace, you’ll also have a lovely view of Notre-Dame and the square of Saint-Julien-le-Pauvre Church.
Where to Eat in the Saint-Michel Quarter?
Crêperie Genia
7 Rue de la Harpe, 75005 Paris
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What better way of eating really good crepes than in their country of origin?
This dish is a classic in France. Whether it be a savory or sweet one, you are going to love it in this creperie located in the heart of the Saint-Michel quarter.
To experience the crepe dish to the fullest, first enjoy a savoury crepe then a chocolate one together with a beverage (a cider to experience it just like the Bretons!). This is what the Crêperie Genia offers to you for just €5.
Average price: Menus between €4.50 and €6.50
What we like:
- Affordable menus
- The crepes are hearty
Website (in French)
The Frog & Princess
9 rue princesse, 75006 Paris
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When passing by this quarter, make a stop at Frog & Princesse: a pub-style restaurant that will offer you a variety of burgers.
With each burger coming with fries or a salad, you will find yourself enjoying the Frogtastic burger or the classic BBQ.
Don’t hesitate and try the sweet potato fries for a change, because they are as delicious as the ones from a regular potato.
You will also be able to discover their craft beers to complete your meal.
Average price: €15
What we like:
- The craft beers
- For sports fans, the pub broadcasts some games
Heureux comme Alexandre
24 Rue de la Parcheminerie, 75005 Paris
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If you want to isolate yourself from the lively streets of the Saint-Michel quarter, this restaurant welcomes you in a typical and warm setting.
To enjoy an excellent fondue savoyarde or bourguignonne, with beef, chicken, duck or a blend of these three types of meat, Heureux comme Alexandre is the perfect place for you.
You will also be able to cook your meat thanks to a heated stone brought to your table.
The products are of quality and the meals are flavourful.
Average price: €20
What we like:
- The cheese fondue is delicious
- You can take as much salad, potatoes, and bread as you want
Sourire – Tapas françaises
27 Rue Galande, 75005 Paris
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If you want to eat something out of the ordinary, come have a taste of this Spanish typical dish adapted to French flavors in this tapas bar.
This dish is a variety of appetizers from Spain usually served with a great wine. Consisting of what are also starters, at Sourire you can eat several tapas and be totally satisfied.
So come eat croquettes of Comté fruité with a honey and mustard sauce, or an artisanal charcuterie board, amongst others.
Other quality dishes are also available on the menu, such as the burger or the fried seabream accompanied with mango. This will leave you wanting more.
This Spanish concept is brought to France and adapted here in Paris to offer you a pleasant and memorable moment in the Saint-Michel quarter.
Average price: €30
What we like:
- The flavors are unique and regularly change
- you shouldn’t miss the croquette of comté
Website (in French)
Where to Sleep in the Saint-Michel Quarter?
Hôtel Esmeralda
4 Rue Saint-Julien Le Pauvre, 75006 Paris
Located just a few steps away from the Notre Dame Cathedral, this hotel in the heart of the Saint-Michel quarter will allow you to have access to numerous restaurants, bars and places of interest that you don’t want to miss.
In particular, it is only 3 minutes away from the metro station Saint-Michel from which you will be able to visit any other important places of Paris (for example, the Eiffel Tower is 13 minutes away and the Arc de Triomphe is 15 minutes away).
With their baroque style rooms, that are pretty comfortable, the Hôtel Esmeralda is perfect for you because of its location and its proximity to great places to visit.
Price: from €160 for a night
What we like:
- the baroque decor
- It is close to public transport
- The view of Notre-Dame
French Theory Hotel
18 Rue Cujas, 75005 Paris
The French Theory Hotel has a warm setting and simple and sophisticated decor. It is also well-situated between the Luxembourg Garden and the Sorbonne University. You will only be a few steps away from the French capital’s many historical places.
You will also be able to enjoy a beautiful rustic-style breakfast room with a vault.
You will enjoy a typical French trip in this hotel in the 5th district of Paris.
Price: from €151 for a night
What we like:
- the unique shared spaces: a recording room with self-guitar guitars and a room with TV, among others.
- There is a cafe and a shop within the hotel
Europe Saint-Séverin
38-40 Rue Saint-Séverin, 75005 Paris
In a lively street, just a few steps from the must-see places in the Saint Michel neighborhood, Hotel Europe Saint Severin offers rooms with a traditional decor.
You’ll also be close to many restaurants, including the hotel’s own, which serves Italian dishes.
You can also enjoy the hotel’s hearty breakfast, either in the dining area or in your room, upon request.
Price: from €131 for a night
What we like:
- the delicious and hearty breakfast
- the shops are near
Hôtel du Levant
18 Rue de la Harpe, 75005 Paris
If you want to unwind close to the neighborhood’s attractions after a busy day of exploring, Hotel du Levant is the place for you.
In a warm and family-friendly setting, this ideally located hotel allows you to enjoy the comfort of the rooms as well as the lounge area at your disposal.
You’ll feel right at home.
Price: from €205 for a night
What we like:
- the hotel is well-located within the district
- the breakfast is hearty and made with fresh products
Hôtel Albe Saint Michel
1 Rue de la Harpe, 75005 Paris
In order to be really in the heart of the Saint-Michel quarter, not too far away from the metro stations, restaurants and various shops, you can book a room at the Hôtel Albe.
In a modern and elegant setting, you will enjoy the bright and spacious rooms as well as a really good continental breakfast.
This is the perfect recipe for a wonderful stay in the Saint-Michel quarter.
Price: from €184 for a night
What we like:
- beautiful view of the Seine and the district
- close to public transport
- the hotel is calm
I aim to share my tips and recommendations for the beautiful country of France. My goal is to help you plan your next adventure, whether it’s a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime trip. From finding the best hotels and restaurants, to discovering unique activities and sights, I’ve got you covered!
