With 20 arrondissements, or boroughs, Paris abounds with different neighborhoods to explore. From the glamorous Champs-Elysées to the alternative Montmartre neighborhood, France’s capital has a flavor for each and every visitor. But one neighborhood remains a must, no matter your itinerary or interest. Hailing as one of the oldest neighborhoods in Paris, the Latin Quarter will charm you with its cobblestone streets and millennia of history. And just a stone’s throw away from this historic neighborhood stands the Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral, which reopens its doors later this year. Not only can you discover the treasures on the inside of the cathedral but also the marvels surrounding it. We’re sharing our deep-dive guide to the Latin Quarter in Paris as well as the best activities in this neighborhood near Notre Dame.
Your Deep-Dive Guide to the Latin Quarter in Paris
History of Latin Quarter and Paris
Before there was Paris, there was Lutetia. Between 400 and 300 B.C., the ancient Gallic settlement of Lutetia was founded, according to the World History Encyclopedia. “Lutetia was actually a double settlement,” according to the World History Encyclopedia. “The main part was, originally, a village on the island that is now called Isle de la Cité.” And today, Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral is on the Île de la Cité. “The Romans reorganized the town on their customary gridiron map. It consisted of what is now more or less the Quartier Latin,” per World History Encyclopedia. It wasn’t until 360 A.D. that it was renamed Paris.
What’s the Latin Quarter Known For?
From Roman to medieval times, the Latin Quarter is a hodge podge of various eras. Many parts of the Latin Quarter are a labyrinth of centuries-old cobblestones.
The Latin Quarter will enchant you with some of its landmarks. Admire the Fountain Saint Michel, which dates back to the mid 1800s. Bookworms will find their bonheur at the famed anglophone bookshop Shakespeare and Company or perhaps at one of the green bouquinistes, or second-hand booksellers, stalls lining the Seine. Stroll past the world-renowned Sorbonne University.
Wander the Arènes de Lutèce, a Roman amphitheater dating back to the 1st century, or the Jardin des Plantes. Or pay your respects at the Panthéon, where key figures such as Victor Hugo and Josephine Baker in French history are buried. The Latin Quarter borders the Île de la Cité, a small island on the Seine that is home to Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral.
Notre-Dame, a Stone’s Throw from the Latin Quarter
After more than five years of closure, Paris rejoices for the opening of its beloved Notre Dame. The cathedral’s construction dates back to the 12th and 14th centuries, according to the Friends of Notre-Dame de Paris. In April 2019, the cathedral caught fire and lost its roof and spire; Notre-Dame has remained closed since the incident, per BBC. This UNESCO World Heritage site welcomed nearly 13 million visitors annually before the fire, per BBC. After more than five years, Notre-Dame de Paris is set to reopen in early December 2024. The reopening will be met with fanfare from concerts to ceremonies, according to Explore France. But during your visit to Paris, don’t stop at the cathedral; the Latin Quarter surrounding Notre Dame deserves to be explored.
Best Latin Quarter Activities in Paris
If you’re longing to discover the Latin Quarter in its truest colors, we’re at your service. Whether you’re looking for an interactive activity suited for children or feeling curious about the millennia of history, French Side Travel has the itinerary for you.
Children’s Tour of Paris at the Time of Gauls and Romans
To truly understand Paris’ beginnings, we must turn the clock back to the 1st century. The roots of Lutetia, or Paris’ ancient name, can be traced to what we know as the Latin Quarter today. In this children’s tour, you’ll discover the Roman remains hiding in plain sight. From the Arènes de Lutèce to Cluny thermal baths, the whole family will enjoy stepping back into a different millennium. Kids will also have the opportunity to wear costumes as they explore the Latin Quarter on this private tour.
Food Tour through the Latin Quarter
What better way to explore the Latin Quarter than by tasting French specialities along the way? In this late morning private food tour, you’ll eat your way through the labyrinth of cobblestone streets from cheese to charcuterie, chocolate to wine. With French Side Travel, you can eat like a local while discovering one of Paris’ most historic neighborhoods.
Walking Tour through the Latin Quarter to Notre Dame
During your three-hour tour organized by French Side Travel, you’ll wander the Latin Quarter’s hidden treasures with your guide. Marvel at its beautiful Jardin des Plantes and keep your eyes peeled for Roman relics. You’ll also see the Grand Mosque of Paris, which was built in the early 1900s to honor the Muslim soldiers who died in World War I. The mosque also served as a hiding place for Jews during the Nazi occupation during World War II.
Need help planning your trip to France? Our travel experts are ready to help you plan the trip of your dreams.
Visit the Cluny Museum
In this museum of the Middle Ages, you’ll uncover the secrets of different periods of Paris. During your museum visit, you can see the Gallo-Roman Thermes de Cluny, or baths, which date back to the 1st or 2nd century. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Chapel of l’Hôtel de Cluny, which dates to the 15th century. History buffs will soak up the wide range of history tucked inside these museum walls.
Where to Stay in Paris’ Latin Quarter
Hotel Parc Saint Severin
Stay in the heart of the Latin Quarter at this four-star hotel boasting views of Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower and other Parisian emblems. Stay in one of their luxurious rooms with a terrace where you can sip your morning coffee as you admire Paris from up high. Treat yourself to afternoon tea time or unwind after a full day of exploring with room service.
Hotel Pilgrim
At this four-star hotel nestled in the Latin Quarter, you’ll find the perfect place to rest your head in one of its 53 rooms. Hotel Pilgrim will wow you with its modern chic style, its luxurious on-site spa and rooftop bar. From the Arènes de Lutèce to the Panthéon, you’re a short walk from some of the neighborhood’s highlights.
Whether you’re most interested in discovering Notre-Dame de Paris Cathedral or the Roman history hiding in Paris’ Latin Quarter, we have the itinerary for you. At French Side Travel, we’re ready to help you plan your trip to the Latin Quarter, Paris and beyond. You might also be interested in: Wintertime in the City of Lights or Unique Experience of the Highlights of Paris.