The 6th arrondissement is one of the most culturally significant hubs in the world. From artists and existentialists to musicians and politicians, the heart of Paris’ Left Bank has played host to some of the greatest intellectuals of all time – most of whom flocked to Saint Germain for elegant socialising at the likes of our beloved Café de Flore.
This artistic reputation has defined the 6th as a popular port of call for Parisians today – old or young, expat or native – but that’s not to say that the original charm is lost. In fact, it’s the opposite. Paris’ 6th arrondissement thrives off its artistic charm, still completely visible in all corners: be it cafés, gardens, galleries or boutiques.
So, herewith, VINGT’s guide to get you started. Just make sure you have a book to hand when you immerse yourself in this intellectual society.
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There is a great selection of hard-to-find art books and the best place for anything on “arts premiers” – ancient and indigenous art from around the world. Librarie Fischbacher 33 Rue de Seine, 6th Ph.… Read more
Tiny (about 30m²) bookstore packed to the rafters with the most amazing selection of rare treasures: comics, magazines, erotic literature and graphic novels – and all this a stone’s throw from the hordes at St… Read more
Image: Stephen Coles Diptyque was created in 1961 by three friends who were linked by their love of fine arts and fine décor; Desmond Knox-Leet, Christiana Gautrot and Yves Coueslant. Their now legendary boutique on… Read more
Played a key role in Christian Vincent’s film La Discrète. More reasonably priced than Café Flore and in a more discreet neighbourhood, this is a very typique Parisian restaurant that appears to have been frozen in… Read more
Patrick Roger flavours his ganaches with lime, basil, jasmin, quince and Szechuan pepper corns – amongst other things. A mix of classic and innovative, there is something for all tastes here. He also creates chocolate… Read more
Most beautiful art-nouveau decor and a great lunch time prix-fixe. Bouillon is ancient term for brasserie – this one was built in 1906. A tribute to the history of fine dining in this city. Bouillon Racine… Read more
Old favourite, popular with Ecole des Beaux-Arts students and the local Galeristes. Bit of fun on the left bank, with lots of chinos and pink sweaters. It is a ‘site classé,’ which means that the… Read more
One of Paris’ top chocolatiers, JP Hevin’s signature store on the rue Saint Honoré, also has a sophisticated Salon de Thé, which is great for a lunch entre copînes, it’s not too expensive. With additional boutiques… Read more