6th arrondissement Travel Guide
Read on to explore the must-visit attractions, best activities and tours, food and drink scene, where to stay, transportation options, and nearby destinations in the 6th arrondissement of Paris, France.
- Introduction to 6th Arrondissement
- List of Places to Visit in 6th Arrondissement
- Hiking/Biking Routes of 6th Arrondissement
- Best Things to Do in 6th Arrondissement: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for 6th arrondissement
- Food and Drink Scene of 6th arrondissement
- Where to Stay in 6th Arrondissement: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in 6th Arrondissement: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of 6th arrondissement
- Best Time to Visit 6th Arrondissement
- Do’s and Don’ts of 6th Arrondissement
- Safety and Health
- Getting to 6th Arrondissement: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in 6th Arrondissement
- Where to Go Next from 6th Arrondissement: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to 6th Arrondissement
Paris, commonly known as the “City of Love”, has always been a top tourist destination for its rich history, arts, culture, and culinary masterpieces. The 6th arrondissement of Paris, also known as Luxembourg, encompasses the eastern part of the city’s famous Saint-Germain-des-Prés area. It is one of the most popular and chic neighborhoods in Paris, where traditions blend happily with modernity.
List of Places to Visit in 6th Arrondissement
The 6th arrondissement has numerous attractions for visitors to explore, ranging from museums, galleries, historical buildings, gardens, outdoor activities, and much more. Here are some must-visit sites in the 6th arrondissement of Paris:
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Musée d’Orsay
The Musée d’Orsay hosts an extensive collection of French art from the 19th century, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and decorative art. It is a popular attraction among art enthusiasts.
Luxembourg Palace and Gardens (Jardin du Luxembourg)
Built-in the 17th century, the Luxembourg Palace and Gardens are located in the heart of the 6th arrondissement. Its beautifully landscaped gardens and fountains, exquisite art pieces, and historical charm make it an ideal place to relax.
Saint-Sulpice Church
Saint-Sulpice Church, in the eastern part of the 6th arrondissement, is famous for its stunning neoclassical architectural style, grand organ, and impressive interiors.
Pantheon
The Pantheon, situated in the southern part of the 6th arrondissement, is an iconic building, and final resting place of many famous French icons, including Victor Hugo, Voltaire, and Marie Curie.
Natural Attractions of 6th arrondissement: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Parc Montsouris
Parc Montsouris, located in the southern part of the 6th arrondissement, boasts beautifully manicured gardens, water features, and many walking trails, making it a perfect spot for picnics and outdoor leisure activities.
Jardin des Plantes
Jardin des Plantes, in the southeastern part of the 6th arrondissement, is a beautiful botanical garden with acres of lush green trees and plants. Visitors can enjoy guided tours and workshops on nature and science.
Hiking/Biking Routes of 6th Arrondissement
The 6th arrondissement provides various hiking, biking, and running routes for visitors to stay active and explore the neighborhood at their own pace. One of the popular routes is:
- The Luxembourg Garden to Notre Dame Cathedral Walk. This route will take you through the Luxembourg Palace and Garden, the Saint-Sulpice Church, and finally end at the Notre Dame Cathedral.
Best Things to Do in 6th Arrondissement: Activities and Tours
Visitors can make the most of their Parisian experience in the 6th arrondissement with a wide range of activities and tours available. Here are some of the most popular ones:
- Visit the Musée d’Orsay and learn about French art and history during the 19th century.
- Experience the traditional French gastronomy with a wine and cheese tasting tour, that includes stops at the best fromageries.
- Walk through the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood with a guide, and discover the area’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Week-Long Itinerary for 6th arrondissement
A full week in the 6th arrondissement provides ample time to explore the beauty of the neighborhood, its history, culture, and natural spots. Here is a weeklong itinerary:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Monday | Visit the Musée d’Orsay and enjoy the surrounding area |
| Tuesday | Explore the Luxembourg Palace and Gardens |
| Wednesday | Discover the Saint-Sulpice Church and go for a walk |
| Thursday | Enjoy an outdoor day at Parc Montsouris |
| Friday | Visit the Pantheon and discover the neighborhood |
| Saturday | Go on a tour to explore local history and culture |
| Sunday | Relax at Jardin des Plantes and end the day with good food |
Food and Drink Scene of 6th arrondissement
Paris is well-known for its culinary delights, and the 6th arrondissement does not disappoint. Visitors can taste the traditional French cuisine, ranging from croissants, baguettes, cheese, wine, and much more. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages in this neighborhood:
Must-Try Dishes
Croissant
Croissant, a buttery pastry, is a must-try when in Paris and is widely available in most bakeries in the 6th arrondissement.
French Onion Soup
This soup is famous for its rich flavors and aroma, made with caramelized onions, and beef broth.
Local Beverages
Wine
Wine is an integral part of the French culture, and visitors can enjoy a diverse range of red, white, and sparkling wine.
Absinthe
Absinthe is a green-colored spirit that became popular in Paris during the late 19th century and is still a favorite beverage among locals.
Where to Stay in 6th Arrondissement: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
The 6th arrondissement offers many options for accommodation, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:
- Hotel La Perle - a luxury hotel with excellent amenities and upscale room designs
- Hotel Notre-Dame Saint-Michel - overlooking the Seine River, this hotel provides a stunning view and a fantastic location in the heart of the 6th arrondissement
- Villa d’Estrées - a budget-friendly guesthouse with cozy decors and charming interiors.
What to Buy in 6th Arrondissement: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
The 6th arrondissement has plenty of souvenir shops selling typical Parisian items, antique stores, and boutique shops. Visitors can find unique and authentic gifts to take back home, including:
- Perfume from Fragonard Perfumerie, that provides French fragrances for over a hundred years
- French wine and cheese from local fromageries
- Antique books and artwork from the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area
Local Culture and Customs of 6th arrondissement
The 6th arrondissement is a blend of traditional French and modern culture. It is customary in France to greet people with a handshake and use formal titles when meeting in professional settings.
Best Time to Visit 6th Arrondissement
The best time to visit the 6th arrondissement is during the months from May to August, when the weather is perfect for outdoor activities, and many festivals, events, and exhibitions are taking place.
Do’s and Don’ts of 6th Arrondissement
Do:
- Be respectful of the local traditions and culture
- Try to speak a few French words when possible as it is appreciated by locals
- Always carry cash for small purchases, as some shops might not accept credit cards.
Don’t:
- Avoid littering, as it is not tolerated in Paris and results in a fine
- Do not take pictures of people without asking for permission
- Do not forget to purchase metro tickets before boarding.
Safety and Health
Safety in 6th Arrondissement
Paris is a generally safe city, but visitors should remain vigilant in crowded areas and avoid leaving their belongings lying around. Pickpocketing is a common problem in tourist hotspots.
Health in 6th Arrondissement
France has a robust healthcare system, and visitors with EU health insurance can access immediate medical attention. Non-EU visitors might need to purchase a private insurance policy.
Getting to 6th Arrondissement: Transportation Options and Logistics
The 6th arrondissement is well-connected to the rest of the city of Paris, with plenty of transportation options for visitors.
Airports Near 6th Arrondissement
The two main airports that serve Paris are Charles de Gaulle Airport and Orly Airport.
Bus Stations Near 6th Arrondissement
Several bus stations serve the 6th arrondissement, including Porte d’Orléans, Montparnasse, and Luxembourg.
Other Options
Visitors can take metro lines 4, 10, and 12 to reach the 6th arrondissement, or take a taxi or Uber for convenience.
How to Get Around in 6th Arrondissement
The best way to get around the 6th arrondissement is on foot. Visitors can also take the metro, which connects the neighborhood to the rest of the city.
Where to Go Next from 6th Arrondissement: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
The 6th arrondissement is a great starting point for exploring other neighborhoods around Paris, including Montparnasse, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, The Latin Quarter, and Ile de la Cite.
Conclusion
The 6th arrondissement is a perfect Parisian destination, where art, culture, nature, and gastronomy meet in perfect harmony. Visitors can make lifetime memories by exploring the must-visit sites, indulging in the French cuisine, and experiencing the local culture and traditions.
