Explore the Latin Quarter in Paris in one day

Imagine exploring centuries of history or savoring unforgettable flavours. The Latin Quarter, with its cobbled streets and bohemian soul, is just the place you need to enjoy the soul of Paris.

A must-see for any visit to the French capital, a charming fusion of history, culture and cuisine. A bohemian and young district that is the delight of all passers-by. If you’re looking for a itinerary with all the places to see in the Latin Quarter, stay on and read on.

What will you find there?

The Latin Quarter is the cultural and intellectual heart of the city. Here you can find centuries-old bookstores and bohemian cafés frequented by Hemingway, open-air markets with artisan bakeries, historical attractions such as the Gallo-Roman baths at Cluny and medieval remains and avant-garde cultural attractions. 

Discover the famous Sorbonne University, the Pantheon, Gothic churches, museums, parks and a young and restless atmosphere thanks to its student traditions.

Where is it?

Located in the 5th arrondissement on the left bank of the Seine, the Latin Quarter extends from the Èle de la Cité to the Luxembourg Gardens. More exactly, from Place Saint Michel and the River Seine, to Rue Soufflot and around the Pantheon.

How to get in?

You can take the metro from anywhere in the city (lines 4, 10, RER B and C). If you stay at a nearby hotel, such as the Maison Colbert Meliá Collection, you are within a short walk of places such as the Sorbonne, Rue Mouffetard or the Pantheon. 

Why is it an important neighbourhood?

The Latin Quarter is synonymous with innovation and diversity. Intellectual and artistic movements were born here, and that spirit continues to this day with a lively cultural agenda, unique bookstores, and cafés where philosophy, cinema or politics are still debated.

It has been home to academic centers since the Middle Ages (such as the Sorbonne, founded in the 13th century), and ever since then has been a focus for art and critical thinking, debate and activism. Student movements and editorials emerged here, and as you tour you will see how their energy is still alive in every corner.

First of all: a Parisian breakfast is essential to recharge your batteries and begin this journey. Home-made bread, butter croissants and fresh coffee are all enjoyed in a calm and elegant ambience.

An excellent base is the Maison Colbert Meliá Collection hotel, just a short step from Notre-Dame. A boutique hotel that not only offers a luxurious experience, but is also the ideal start for a tour of the Latin Quarter in Paris.

Just a few steps from the hotel, discover the iconic Notre-Dame. In all its splendor since its reopening in December 2024 after its restoration, with a Gothic façade as straight as it was on the first day. 

Then cross to Èle de la Cité where you can also visit the Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its stained-glass windows.

Continue the walk to the legendary Shakespeare & Company bookstore, a literary icon in Paris. Strolling along the banks of the Seine you will discover bouquinistes (old book stalls), perfect for an authentic Parisian postcard. And, who knows, you might come across a printed treasure that has passed through some very interesting hands.

Walk to the Luxembourg Gardens, one of the most beautiful green gardens in the city. Between the sculptures, fountains and children sailing boats in the pond, it is the ideal place to relax. An image that reminds me of the preferences in Paris for the cast of 'Emily in Paris'.

This street is perfect for great food. I recommend you choose a terrace with a menu of the day and try classics such as confit de canard or a cheese board with wine. You can also explore their positions fresh, local products if you prefer an improvised picnic.

Climb up to the Pantheon, a colossal work by the architect Soufflot, where figures such as Voltaire, Marie Curie and Victor Hugo rested.

A few meters from the historic Sorbonne University, reminding you that this district has always been the cradle of intellectuals. One of the most prestigious and oldest academic institutions in the world (1257), it is so remote that when it began, classes were given in Latin. This is where the district gets its name: as we passed through the area, students could be heard speaking in Latin and it was named Quartier Latin, Latin Quarter in Spanish.

This museum is partly housed in a Gallo-Roman baths and contains medieval treasures such as the tapestry of The Lady and the UNICORN. Ideal for a dose of history and art.

Considered the oldest café in Paris, Le Procope is an excellent place to take a break and enjoy a cup of tea or coffee. Founded in 1686, it was a meeting point for Rousseau, Diderot and Voltaire. The interior retains the atmosphere of the illustrated rooms.

For a more refined break, visit Les Deux Magots or Café de Flore, two iconic cafés on the Parisian literary scene.

Rue Huchette has a relaxed atmosphere and gourmet dining options for all tastes. Whether you are looking for typical local dishes such as crepes or fondue, or international dishes such as kebabs and Lebanese pastries.

How not to visit Paris and be charmed by its style. To find the best deals, stroll around Rue Saint-Jacques, Rue Galande and Rue de la Harpe to discover independent shops, bookstores in several languages, stationery shops and French boutiques. Impossible to resist!

End the day with one of the nearby bistros. Le Petit Châtele or Les Trubliones are highly recommended for an intimate dinner, including local cuisine and excellent wine.

This tour begins (and ends, if you wish) at the very entrance to the Maison Colbert Meliá Collection. A prime location allows you to get around on foot and avoid wasting time travelling.

But beyond its proximity, the hotel also has the same essence as the neighbourhood: history, refinement and a deeply Parisian identity. Inspired by Jean-Baptiste Colbert, a key figure in the 17th century, the hotel combines heritage with modernity to create the most sophisticated ambience, ideal for travelers with cultural concerns. Two characteristic details that define the city are its past: Simone de Beauvoir lived here, and the hotel pays tribute to the Spanish painter Joaquín Sorolla, enriching the spaces with his work and inspiration.