Why the
Latin Quarter
is special

The Latin Quarter on the left bank of Paris is famous for a Bohemian lifestyle practiced in past centuries by artists, writers and students.

Latin Quarter
tips & insights

The touristy
Latin Quarter

Two Latin Quarters exist today. One is hyper-touristy and thrives along the Boulevard Saint Michel (nicknamed "Boul Mich", rhymes with "dish"). See it to satisfy your curiosity, but then explore the other Latin Quarter.

The more authentic
Latin Quarter

It exists along narrow streets, especially those near the universities, including the internationally acclaimed Sorbonne (founded in the 13th century). You'll find quaint bookshops and bistros patronized mainly by locals, not tourists.

Renowned attractions

The Latin Quarter is home to:

The Pantheon
Resting place of Voltaire, Hugo and other French luminaries

Cluny Museum
Renowned for its medieval unicorn tapestries

Famous restaurants

The two most famous Latin Quarter restaurants are Les Deux Magots (see photo) and the Cafe de Flore. If you haven't eaten in at least one of them, you haven't been to Paris.

Name

The Latin Quarter gained its name because from the 13th to 18th century the streets teemed with Latin-speaking theology students.

Explore my
candid country, region
and other travel guides
Click links for tips & insights

©2010 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications