Notre Dame & the islands

This is a walk with many world-famous monuments, that everyone should see at least once.

 

Île de la Cité is where Paris's first residents lived. It is home to the Notre-Dame. This cathedral is definitely worth visiting, as is La Conciergerie, the prison where Marie-Antoinette spent her final days. The Sainte-Chapelle cathedral has beautiful stained-glass windows. You can enter it through the Palais de Justice. The other island, Île Saint-Louis, is known for its stately homes. This is one of the most expensive—and most desirable—parts of town. Who wouldn't want to live here?

 

Quartier Latin is home to major universities and prep schools. You will even encounter remnants of the Roman era here. The hilltop features the impressive Panthéon, where famous French are laid to rest, including Voltaire, Rousseau, and Victor Hugo. Nearby the Panthéon you will find the vibrant Rue Mouffetard, full of cafés and restaurants suitable for any budget. The charming Contrescarpe square offers a welcome break from all the surrounding hustle and bustle. Scenic Jardin du Luxembourg is also a pleasant escape.

 

Saint-Germain-des-Prés is a neighborhood with many great designers and beautiful stores. You can find something for every budget here, because there are also plenty of studios of young designers. This walk will take you past cafés celebrated for their clientele of famous authors. Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir were regulars at Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore. Philosophic events are still held here. Opposite the cafés lies Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the church with the oldest steeple in Paris.