ALX Guide: The 6th Arrondissement of Paris

On the Left Bank of Paris, the 6th arrondissement pulsates with pure Parisian esprit! If you were to ask both locals and tourists alike which part of the French capital truly captures the essence of the city, many will tell you it's Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This neighborhood offers what many love about Paris from historic cafes once patronized by leading early 20th-century figures to the beloved Jardin du Luxembourg and its botanical bliss. It has a vintage vibe enhanced by a modern mood—perfect for exploring if it's your first time in the arrondissement.

 

 

 

 

What is the 6th Arrondissement in Paris?

As its name says, the 6th arrondissement is the 6th district of Paris. It's home to the much-beloved Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a popular neighborhood where the past and present meet. The area is famous for its historic cafes, vintage bookstores, and cobbled streets lined with luxury apartments, and more. Street artists offer their fascinating works to passers-by while tourists shop and take photos of the neighborhood’s old-world mystique. And though there's no world-famous monument here, the 6th arrondissement is fairly famous among tourists who want to see Paris at its most romantic essence. 

  

Where is the 6th Arrondissement in Paris?

The 6th arrondissement is famously located on the Left Bank of the Seine River. It borders the 5th, 7th, 15th, and 14th arrondissements. Since it's close to the iconic Seine, the riverbanks tend to be the go-to spot for people who just want to hang out but can't afford to eat at the area's well-known cafes and upscale restaurants. And while the 6th arrondissement itself doesn't have iconic monuments to offer tourists, the city's famous landmarks are not too far from here either. Fortunately, public transport in Paris is efficient enough that you can go to the Eiffel Tower, Montparnasse Tower, the Pantheon, and Hotel des Invalides from here. 

  

  

What is The 6th Arrondissement in Paris Known for?

The 6th arrondissement is famous for a lot of things, Firstly, there's the beloved Parisian neighborhood, Saint-Germain-des-Prés. It's one of the best places to live in Paris thanks to its lively atmosphere, historic hotspots, and electric nightlife. Secondly, this is also where you'll find Jardin du Luxembourg, one of the most popular parks in Paris. With its colorful flower beds and lush fields, it's a great place to enjoy some botanical bliss at the heart of the city. And third, you can't overlook the area's iconic cafes. Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore are just some that once upheld Parisian cafe society. 

  

Is The 6th Arrondissement in Paris Safe?

For the most part, it is. With so many hotspots in the area, the 6th arrondissement does tend to get too lively at times, especially at night. But all in all, the district, especially Saint-Germain-des-Prés, is a generally safe place. There might be a few dark corners you're better off avoiding after dark, but they don't make up the entire arrondissement. Even within the many crime rates in Paris, the crime rate in this area isn't as high as those in other arrondissements. 

  

  

Restaurants Near The 6th Arrondissement in Paris

The 6th arrondissement is home to some of the best cafes in Paris. Among the most notable names include Café de Flore, Les Deux Magots, Café Le Procope, and Coutume Café. The first two, in particular, were the center of the intellectual elite of Paris in the early 20th century. Prominent figures like Richard Wright, James Baldwin, Albert Camus, Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway, Jean-Paul Satre, Simone de Beauvoir, and more dined in these very hotspots. Though these cafes were famous rivals, they both shared immense popularity from that time until today! 

  

Here are more of the best restaurants in the 6th arrondissement.

  

• Brasserie des Prés on Cour du Commerce Saint-André

  

• Café Louise on Boulevard Saint-Germain

  

• Dandino on Rue de Buci

  

• La Poissonnerie Viot in Austin du Marché Saint-Germain

  

• Le Dame des arts in Hôtel Dame des Arts on Rue Danton

  

• Oktobre on Rue des Grands Augustins

  

• Shiro on Boulevard Saint-Germain

  

• Spiti Sou on Quai des Grands Augustins

  

Things to Do in The 6th Arrondissement in Paris

Whether you're just visiting or you're moving to Paris altogether, the 6th arrondissement is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in the city. There's a lot to do here you won't ever get bored. Even simply strolling around the block is exciting—you never know what you might discover along the way! Going to the area's famous cafes is a good idea too. Not only will you get to revel in the city's fascinating history, but you also get to indulge in haute cuisine. Don't forget the vintage shops too! From bookstores to boutiques, the place is a trove of past treasures. 

  

  

It's fairly accurate to say that the 6th arrondissement is the true heartbeat of Paris. From its historic cafes to its lively markets, the district captures the eccentric and elegant Parisian lifestyle in all its idyllic glory.