The 6th district in Paris – Saint Germain des prés

The Hotel Prince de Conti is in rue Guénégaud, is one of the nicest parts of the chic 6th arrondissement. Over time, this street and many of the surrounding streets have seen art galleries popping up and many are specialized in Tribal Arts, formerly known as Primitive art or ethnographic art.

Every September the International Salon of Tribal Arts “Parcours des Mondes” takes place in what is known as “le carré d’or” (The Golden Square), between our street, rue Guénégaud, and la rue des Beaux Arts.

The area becomes a living open air museum; great art experts from around the world are wandering around, going from gallery to gallery. Other great collectors are seen discussing their finds over a plate of charcuterie or cheese at “La Palette”. Next to them might be an art student from the Beaux Arts and at the table opposite an international film star like Julia Roberts. Artists from the past who have sat at these same tables include Picasso, Cezanne, Hemingway and Jim Morrison.

Along the Seine, walk towards the Pont Neuf to l’Ile de la Cité. Despite its name, it is actually the oldest bridge in Paris. One of the most beautiful and little known places to visit in Paris is the Place Dauphine on this island. This is an enjoyable and quiet place for lunch or coffee on a terrace overlooking the magnificent square. Also on the island you should visit La Conciergerie, La Sainte Chapelle and Notre Dame.

A little further still is l’Ile Saint Louis, famous for its ice cream shops and restaurants. In the other direction is the ‘passerelle des arts’, a pedestrian bridge known as the most romantic place to kiss.