Many tourists flock to Paris’s main island, the Ile de la Cité, home to the Notre Dame Cathedral. But too many overlook their lovely little sister, the picturesque Ile Saint-Louis, which is just steps away in the Fourth Arrondissement.
This little island is like an oasis from the hustle and bustle of the city. It is almost as if someone has dropped a small French town in the center of Paris. It contains everything you want from your neighborhood: markets, bakeries, sweet shops and cafes. While much of Paris has been modernized over the years, this island remains romantically frozen in the 17th century. It is remarkably the same as centuries ago.
The Ile Saint-Louis is connected to the rest of Paris by four bridges on both banks of the River Seine and to the Ile de la Cité by the Pont Saint-Louis.
It’s full of seductive boutiques, houses its own unique ice cream, and features historic attractions. Ile Saint-Louis will appeal to:
- Those who like a small town feel more.
- Those who appreciate historic neighborhoods and old towns.
- Those who appreciate a good meal at a sidewalk cafe.
- Those who prefer to be in the center of it all without the crowds.
- Tourists who prefer to live like locals.
- Anyone who loves to shop but hates chain stores.
Must do
There is so much to like on Ile Saint-Louis that you might feel overwhelmed and miss out on some of the best things to do. Be sure to check:
- Berthillon ice cream. The only true Berthillon can be found in the few small blocks that make up the Ile Saint-Louis. This delicious ice cream and sorbet has rich colors and equally intense flavors. It comes in countless flavors, but dark chocolate (dark chocolate) and mango ( mangue ) are second to none. Summer or winter, this is a true Parisian delight. For true authenticity, try this gift at 29-31, Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, where it started.
- Boutique shopping. The island’s main street, Rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, has many boutiques and specialty shops. Although they can be modern and expensive, this is still an ideal place to discover unique memories. There is a fancy toy store, a shop dedicated to handcrafted puppets, a chocolate shop, a couple of gourmet shops and art galleries. Try L’ile Aux Images for vintage photographs and lithographs of old Paris.
- Performers on the Pont Saint-Louis. The small bridge that connects Ile Saint-Louis to Ile de la Cité is a popular spot for street performers, be they jazz bands, jugglers, or mime artists. Relax and enjoy the show with your Berthillon ice cream.
- Church of Saint-Louis en-L’Île. Begun in 1664 and completed in 1726, this atmospheric baroque church invites you to enter with a vast and impressive wooden door decorated with angels. Inside, it is surprisingly impressive and immense.
- Great Food: There are an incredibly high number of restaurants on this island, considering its small size. There are several concentrates near Pont Saint-Louis, and they are all good. Many of the restaurants are upscale and expensive, but you can find some cafes and bars that are a bit more affordable.
- A drink at Au Franc Pinot. This has been a popular watering hole since the 17th century, and continues to be to this day. Pleasantly not a tourist trap, this bar oozes with the French laissez-faire attitude .
What’s near?
As charming as the Ile Saint-Louis is, no neighborhood in Paris is an island unto itself. Because the island is almost in the center of the city, many of the great attractions are within walking distance.
- Notre Dame Cathedral . Just a short walk across a bridge, this charming cathedral is the setting for Victor Hugo’s classic novel The Hunchback of Notre Dame. Be sure to climb the endless spiral staircases for a breathtaking view of the city, a close-up and a personal look at the famous gargoyles, and a glimpse of the famous Hunchback Church bell.
- Sena river. It literally surrounds this island and is one of the best attractions in Paris (and, as a bonus, it’s free to visit). You can hardly say you’ve done Paris unless you kiss your girlfriend while on one of the bridges that cross the Seine.
- Georges Pompidou Center. This modern art museum is worth a visit, even if you never go inside. The colorful Stravinsky Fountain is the perfect backdrop for family travel photos. The unique architecture of the building has extensions of industrial pipeline. Inside, there’s plenty of modern art, a large gift shop with quirky items, a large bookstore with titles on just about every aspect of art, and a free exhibit downstairs.
Where to stay
Although there are not many hotel options on the island, it is hard to go wrong with the options available.
The four-star Hotel Jeu de Paume combines history, sport and good accommodation. Formerly an actual tennis court, this charming hotel features a glass elevator overlooking the interior courtyard with its rooftop floors above. The rooms are especially large for Paris.
Housed in a 17th century residence, the three-star Hotel des Deux-Iles combines historic charm with modern sensibilities and intimate surroundings.
Arriving in the area
Take the metro to the Pont Marie stop and then cross the bridge. From Ile de la Cité, walk to the left of the facade of Notre Dame Cathedral and then head to the back of the church. Follow the path to the bridge and then cross.
Edited by Mary Anne Evans
