Things to do near Notre-Dame de Paris
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- Things to do near Notre-Dame de Paris
Notre-Dame de Paris is the ideal starting point for exploring the capital’s must-see sites. From the Île de la Cité, visit the oldest stone bridge, the Île Saint-Louis, also rocked by the Seine, and discover majestic historic buildings. The soul of Paris twirls around the 1st arrondissement, taking you on a journey through the French ‘Art de Vivre’.
The Notre-Dame de Paris district: a journey through French history
Notre-Dame Cathedral
On the Île de la Cité, in the 1st arrondissement, this monument has seen the history of Paris unfold since 1163. Yet nothing predestined it to be the most visited national monument. Made famous by Victor Hugo, it went down in flames in 2019. But at the end of 2024, Notre-Dame will rise from its ashes and will once again be able to watch over Paris.
The Sainte-Chapelle
While all eyes are on Notre-Dame de Paris, the Île de la Cité is home to another exceptional historic monument. Built in the 13th century, the Sainte-Chapelle was for a long time the guardian of the holy relics on the orders of King Saint-Louis. Today, it boasts some of the finest stained glass in the city, with 600 m2 of dazzling windows when the sun comes out.
The Conciergerie
A former royal palace turned prison, the Conciergerie is a silent witness to the darkest hours of French history. It was here, on the Île de la Cité, that Marie-Antoinette spent her last days. Today, it tells its story in an immersive tour.
The Archaeological Crypt of the Île de la Cité
Continue your journey on the Île de la Cité. Or rather under it. Right under your feet and those of Notre-Dame, this underground museum reveals the foundations of Lutetia, the ancient Gallo-Roman Paris. Remains of walls, streets and buildings reveal two millennia of the history of the City of Light. It’s a unique archaeological plunge into the evolution of the capital from its origins to the present day.
Memorial to the martyrs of the deportation
Located at the end of the Île de la Cité, the Memorial to the Martyrs of the Deportation is a place of remembrance dedicated to the 200,000 people deported from France during the Second World War. The sober architecture and narrow spaces represent the oppression and suffering of those who were deported. It is a reminder that the tragedies of the past must never be forgotten.
Saint-Jacques Tower
In the heart of Paris’s 4th arrondissement, the Tour Saint-Jacques stands proudly as a Gothic vestige of the former Saint-Jacques-la-Boucherie church. Built in the early 16th century, it was a departure point for pilgrims on their way to Santiago de Compostela. Now isolated but majestic, it offers a breathtaking view of Paris after climbing its 300 steps.
📌 To do: located just opposite Notre-Dame, the church of Saint-Julien le Pauvre has a choir inspired by that of the Cathedral. Then make your way along the banks of the Seine. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, they lie between the Pont de l’Alma and the Pont Alexandre III. For a long time, this was the domain of cars, but now it’s the pedestrians who enjoy the area.
Shopping around Notre-Dame de Paris
La Samaritaine
Located in the 1st arrondissement, La Samaritaine is a capital icon. A temple to shopping, the architecture alone gives the place an unrivalled Parisian charm. Some of the biggest names in luxury can be found on the premises, and between two fittings, you can take the grand staircase to the 5th floor. This is the place for gourmets, with names as prestigious as the address itself.
Shakespeare and Company Bookstore
There are some unmissable addresses in the grande dame district. This is one of them. This bookshop has had several lives but has retained its authentic charm. This so-British literary mecca boasts a breathtaking view of Notre-Dame Cathedral. Come and enjoy a book over a cup of coffee, as some of the greatest names in French literature have done.
Queen Elizabeth II Flower Market
Make no mistake, every street corner on the Île de la Cité has its share of historical anecdotes. The flower market is no exception. Previously known as the ‘Flower and Bird Market’, it was named after the Queen after her visit in 2014. It’s one of the most visited markets in the world, and surely the one with the most flowers in Paris. A little corner of greenery that will soon be renovated along the Quai de la Corse.
📌 To do: if you start your tour of the city from the Île de la Cité, take the Pont Neuf to La Samaritaine. The oldest bridge in Paris is full of unusual anecdotes… You’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the Seine and the monuments that line it. Don’t miss the sunset, which floods the district with golden light.
Enjoy a gourmet break near Notre-Dame
La Tour d'Argent
Facing the Île Saint-Louis and the Île de la Cité, this legendary restaurant offers a breathtaking view of Notre-Dame and the Seine. Some of the world’s greatest names have passed through its doors. In the kitchen, a Meilleur Ouvrier de France reinterprets classic French dishes.
Bonnie
From the Île Saint-Louis, continue your visit via the Pont de Sully to discover Bonnie. Located close to the banks of the Seine, this popular restaurant serves contemporary cuisine inspired by cultures from all over the world. Like the ‘Tour d’Argent’, you can continue to admire the cathedral while sipping a drink.
The Long Hop
Just a stone’s throw from Notre-Dame, in the 5th arrondissement, The Long Hop offers a more relaxed experience. A cosy pub where you can enjoy a craft beer or cocktail, it’s the ideal last stop after exploring the historic district.
📌 To do: round off your escapade with a diversion to Place Dauphine. Paris’ second royal square in the 17th century, it has a rich historical and architectural past.
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