The Left Bank of Paris covers the vast area south of the Seine River – and it’s a sensational place to discover on foot. In this Left Bank Self-Guided Paris Walking Tour, we delve deep into two legendary districts: The Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain-des-Pres.
The adjoining neighborhoods are drenched in history, yet so incredibly full of life. Our walking tour route leads to literary haunts, impressive churches, ancient ruins and sublime green spaces.
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We also feature the sights of this Left Bank Walking Tour on Day 4 of our Paris One-Week Itinerary.
How To Use our Self-Guided Paris Walking Tour of the Left Bank
Before setting off on any of our Free Paris Self-Guided Walking Tours, it’s best to understand how they work.
The sights are listed in chronological order and each stop features a map and information about the attraction.
A connection is necessary to use the maps – so make sure you have an eSim, an international data plan or a Pocket WiFi Device – like this one by GlocalMe.
Traveling without Wi-Fi or want this tour without advertisements? Download an ad-free PDF version of our walk (for a small fee) – and use it instantly!
Left Bank Walking Tour: Latin Quarter & Saint-Germain-des-Pres
Okay, grab your best travel shoes and let’s get to it! The route of our Paris Left Bank Walking Tour stretches for about 4 miles – and goes further if you embark on our suggested detour.
While we highlight what to see and do, travelers interested in learning more from a local guide can join a highly-rated tour.
#1 Classic Paris Cafes
€5+ for a Coffee | Map and Map
Before you begin your walking tour of Paris’ Left Bank, fuel up with a coffee from a timeless cafe in the Saint-Germain-des-Pres district.
Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots are, perhaps, the two most famous cafes in Paris – and they’re practically right next door to each other.
Both coffee shops were established in the Saint-Germain-des-Pres district in the late 1800s and are now institutions.
Throughout their history, the cafes have welcomed some of the city’s most famous artists, writers and thinkers.
Although some might contend that these cafes are now tourist traps, the history is still palpable. Take a seat inside Les Deux Magots, where Ernest Hemmingway once wrote novels, or go to Café de Flore, a favorite haunt of Pablo Picasso.
#2 Saint Germain-des-Pres Church
Free | Map
Ranking as the oldest church in Paris, the modest Roman-style structure looks ordinary (if not a bit dull) from the outside.
What awaits inside, however, is an eclectic blend of architectural styles and colorful design. With a bright blue vaulted ceiling, vibrant frescos, dazzling stained glass and marble sculptures, the church is truly a sight to behold.
#3 Saint Sulpice Church
Free | Map
A massive 17th century church, St Sulpice is nearly as big as Notre Dame. The grandiose building features a striking columned façade and a sumptuous interior.
Highlights include the breathtaking Baroque Chapel of the Virgin Mary, the Chapel of the Holy Angels with murals painted by Eugene Delacroix and the magnificent organ.
Fans of author Dan Brown might recognize the church from the movie adaptation of The Da Vinci Code – but everyone can appreciate its splendor.
#4 Luxembourg Gardens
Free | Map
The spacious gardens of Luxembourg Palace (where the French Senate meets today) were designed in the early 1600s.
Centering on a fountain that is a popular place for model sailboats, the Luxembourg Gardens feature decorative flower beds, tree-lined paths, tennis courts, statues and monuments.
We love sauntering around this fabulous green space – and also suggest walking into the adjoining Jardin des Grands-Explorateues. The highlight of this meticulous garden is the exceptional Fontaine des Quatre-Parties-du-Monde.
Left Bank Attractions Detour: Catacombs or Rooftop
From Jardin du Luxembourg, consider making a detour to see one of the top nearby Paris attractions, either the Catacombs or the Montparnasse Rooftop.
Built in the 1700s due to overcrowded cemeteries, the Paris Catacombs are believed to hold the remains of more than six-million people.
Visitors can descend into the subterranean labyrinth of underground tunnels that are lined with skeleton bones. It’s one of the eerie and unique things to see in Paris. (Ticket Required | Map)
Those who would rather stay above can go to the nearby Montparnasse Tower. Excellent views extend from the Montparnasse observation deck on the 56th floor, encompassing Paris’ treasured sights from above. (Ticket Required | Map).
#5 Sorbonne University
Free | Map
Recognized around the globe as one of the most prestigious educational institutions, Sorbonne University is the crème-de-la-crème of French higher learning. Its status makes it one of the top sights in the Latin Quarter.
Founded 1257, the university sits at the heart of the district. In fact, the Latin Quarter obtained its moniker in the Middle Ages due to the students that resided in the neighborhood, as they were taught and spoke in Latin.
The university also took center stage during the infamous Paris May 1968 Protests. The demonstration began with student occupations in the heart of the Latin Quarter.
That led to 11 million factory workers going on strike. The successful movement marked a cultural shift in France’s history that is still evident today.
While wandering the halls is limited to students, faculty and those with pre-booked tours (only offered in French), visitors can still marvel at the exquisite architecture from the outside. Place de la Sorbonne offers the most illustrious view.
#6 Pantheon
Ticket Required; Included with Museum Pass | Map
Built in the second half of the 18th century as a church, the Pantheon is a monumental structure.
The domed building was transformed into a mausoleum in 1791, only one year after completion. The dominating portico (which offers a nice view of the distant Eiffel Tower) is lined with stately columns.
Inside, hanging from the dome, is a Foucault Pendulum – a device created in 1851 proving that the earth rotates.
Many of France’s most revered citizens are buried at the Pantheon in the crypt. Some of the notable ‘residents’ include Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo and Marie Curie.
#7 Arenes de Lutece
Free | Map
An ancient relic right in the center of Paris, Arenes de Lutece is a Hidden Gem in Paris – especially for history buffs.
The Roman amphitheater was built in the 2nd century, when what is known as France today was ruled by the Roman Empire (then called Gaul).
Arenes de Lutece – which could accommodate 16,000 spectators for gladiator fights and theatrical performances – was only rediscovered in the 1860s.
The archaeological remains are open to the public for recreation. In fact, it’s a popular spot for locals to play Petanque – a French version of bocce ball. The best entry point is through the archway at #49 Rue Monge.
#8 Paris Botanical Gardens
Free | Map
The sprawling Botanical Garden – or Jardin des Plantes – was founded in 1626. The space was planted with medicinal herbs in 1635 and then opened to the public in the year 1640.
Lush with verdant flora and blooming flowers, the landscaped garden hosts more than 2,500 plant species. The National Historical Landmark also features greenhouses, a small zoo and museums (all of which require a ticket).
#9 Jardin Tino Rossi and Seine River Stroll
Free | Map
The wide and spacious paved riverside pathway is a sensational place for walking in Paris.
From the Botanic Garden, wind your way through Jardin Tino Rossi where contemporary sculptures decorate the landscape and dancers turn out to tango.
Continue walking west along the Seine riverbank – and enjoy the moment when the Notre Dame towers come into view.
#10 Shakespeare and Company Bookshop
Free | Map
The original Shakespeare and Co was opened in 1919 on Rue de l’Odeon. Literary figures – like Hemmingway and James Joyce – frequented the shop.
The bookstore moved to the current location in 1951 and is known for stocking English literature. Despite its relatively modern history, the cozy charm is what draws in tourists, so be ready for a queue.
Inside, books line the shelves from floor to ceiling, and even packed with people it’s still possible to find a quiet nook for reading.
Continue Your Paris Walk: Riverside and Bridges
The Shakespeare and Co Bookshop is the last official stop on this walking tour for Paris. If you still have some pep in your step, why not continue along the riverside?
The Seine is spanned by 37 bridges that connect the Left and Right Banks of Paris. An ideal way to experience Paris is to embark on a walk via the bridges, zigzagging your way through the city.
Stop at the Bouquinistes that you will surely encounter along the route. At these kiosks, traders sell used books, antiques and inexpensive souvenir trinkets – which all add to this unique Paris atmosphere.
Alternatively, walk to Pont Neuf and begin our Ile de la Cite Walking Tour (also available as a PDF).
Map of Left Bank Paris Self-Guided Walking Tour
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Saint-Germain-des-Pres and Latin Quarter Walking Route Map below.
More Paris Walks
We feel walking in Paris is a great way to get acquainted with the gorgeous city. Explore all of our Best Paris Self-Guided Walking Tours – or choose from the list below.
- Walking the Marais District
- Tour Iconic Paris Attractions
- Great Paris City Center Sights
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- Keep Your Paris Vacation Organized with our Travel Planner
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