Walking in the Saint-Germain des Prés area, from metro Saint-Germain des Prés to metro Odéon, offers a delightful exploration of one of Paris’s most historic and culturally rich district. Here’s a detailed guide…

Starting Point: Metro Saint-Germain des Prés

• Begin your walk in the heart of Parisian intellectual and cultural life. The Saint-Germain des Prés quarter is famous for its literary and artistic heritage.

Stop 1: Café de Flore

• Just a short stroll from the metro, visit the renowned Café de Flore. Famed as a gathering place for existentialist philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, it’s an ideal spot for a coffee break immersed in Parisian history.
• This café was a central hub for the intellectual and artistic elite of the 20th century. Capture a timeless photo outside its iconic red-awning front.

Stop 2: Église de Saint-Germain des Prés

• Wander to the Église de Saint-Germain des Prés, one of Paris’s oldest churches. Its history dates back to the 6th century, offering a glimpse into medieval Paris.
• This church was the burial site of Merovingian kings of Neustria.

Stop 3: Les Deux Magots

• Continue to Les Deux Magots, another famous café just a short walk away. Once frequented by artists like Picasso and writers like Hemingway, it’s a symbol of the area’s rich artistic past.
• Enjoy the view of the Saint-Germain des Prés Church from its terrace.

Stop 4: Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine

• Stroll down Rue de Buci and Rue de Seine, vibrant streets filled with quaint shops, bustling bistros, and charming art galleries.
• Visit the small artisanal bakeries for a delicious pastry or croissant. Our favourite is “brioche suisse” (a mix of pain au chocolat and danish pastry).

To ask for it in French : “Bonjour, je voudrais une brioche suisse s’il vous plaît”.

Stop 5: Jardin du Luxembourg (Optional Detour)

• If you’re up for a slight detour, a walk to the Jardin du Luxembourg is highly recommended. It’s a beautiful garden perfect for a relaxing break.
• In the garden, the Medici Fountain is a serene spot for photos.

Final Stop: Odéon

• Conclude your walk at Odéon, an area known for its theaters and lively ambiance. The Odéon Theatre, built in 1782, is a significant monument in French theatrical history.
• The Odéon Theatre was an important site during the French Revolution and has a rich history of promoting avant-garde works.

You can stop for lunch (or dinner if you arrive early enough or with a reservation) at restaurant “Le Procope“, the oldest restaurant in Paris (established 1686), for a really classic and delicious French food experience in a beautiful place.