Paris Itineraries: Rue Mouffetard and around

A Day in the Quartier Latin: Join us and discover our favorite neighborhood

Salut from Paris! We’re Lena and Laurent, and today, we’re taking you on a short stroll through parts of the heart of Paris’s oldest district, the Quartier Latin.

Created by the Romans over 2000 years ago, this area is a vibrant mix of history, student life, and cultural richness, thanks to institutions like the Sorbonne University and the Collège de France.

We start our walk in the Jardin du Luxembourg, a majestic garden founded by Marie de Médicis in the early 17th century. It’s a place where history meets leisure, with over 100 statues, and of course, the iconic Medici Fountain.

But let’s dive into the heart of our tour: the Quartier Latin itself.

#1 The Panthéon

A monument that’s hard to miss, towering over the Montagne Sainte-Geneviève. Originally intended as a church by King Louis XVI, it transformed into a mausoleum honoring notable French figures during the French Revolution. Voltaire and Rousseau were the first to be honored, with recent additions including the Manouchians, who fought in the French Resistance against the Nazis.

#2 Eglise Saint Etienne du Mont

Just steps from the Panthéon, this Gothic church might look familiar if you’ve seen “Midnight in Paris. It’s a hidden gem worth exploring, especially if you are a fan of the movie.

#3 Placette Jacqueline-de-Romilly

Known for its vibrant nightlife, this spot offers a mix of pubs, bars, and eateries catering to all tastes. Our go-to is TranTrainZai for Sichuan noodles and the Hurling Pub for a lively night out. Alternatively, check out Le Pub Saint-Hilaire for student vibes.

#4 Rue Descartes

This street was home to literary giants like Ernest Hemingway, George Orwell, and James Joyce in the early 20th century. Not surprising that they settled all down here, the famous English bookstore Shakespeare & Company isn’t far.

#5 Restaurant Narro

72 Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, 75005 Paris

A blend of French cuisine with a Japanese twist, Narro offers a contemporary dining experience not to be missed.

Money saver: Come by at Lunchtime. The menu is cheaper then.

#6 Coffee Break at Place Contrescarpe

At the beginning of Rue Mouffetard and central square in the area. Sourrounded by bars and restaurants and a hub for coffee breaks and French Apéros.

#7 Rue Mouffetard

One of Paris’s oldest streets, it offers a medieval vibe with its cobblestones and narrow paths. It’s a stark contrast to the grandeur of Haussmann’s Paris, and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the city’s historical charm.

#8 Rue du Pot de Fer

A bustling pedestrian street filled with dining options. It’s the place to be for cheap dining and evening outings. But it is also the most touristy part of the area.

#9 Petit Grec

68 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris

Ideal for those on a budget, offering delicious options without breaking the bank. It’s more on the junk food side, with tons of cheese and fillings of your choice. You impossibly can be hungry afterwards.

#10. Marché Rue Mouffetard

139 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris

A bustling food market at the bottom of Rue Mouffetard. Open from Tuesday to Sunday mornings.

Subscribe to our Youtube Channel as we explore the streets, share our favorite spots, and uncover the stories that make this district uniquely captivating. Bon voyage!