The Latin Quarter is the oldest area in Paris, having been the centre of Gallo-Roman Lutetia in the 3rd century. You will find remnants of this period at the Thermes de Cluny, Roman baths standing next to the Medieval Cluny Museum.

Since the Middle Ages, the Latin Quarter has been an academic centre of knowledge and learning built around the Sorbonne University, which was founded in 1231 by Robert de Sorbon, and reputable lycées. This is why it conjures up images of old cobblestones, bohemian writers and carousing students. The narrow streets also seethe with perpetual eruptions as students'slogans and demonstrations echo the songs of François Villon.

East of Place Saint-Michel, you will find many pedestrian streets (rues Saint-Séverin, de la Harpe, de la Huchette) lined with pizzerias, Greek restaurants, fast food joints and jazz clubs, all very animated at night. Bookstores characterize Boulevard Saint-Michel. Place de la Sorbonne is filled with sidewalk cafés. Make a visit to:

The imposing Pantheon, which embodies the Republican spirit of France. Designed originally as a church under the reign of Louis XV, it was transformed into a classical temple honoring illustrious Frenchmen like Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Victor Hugo, Emile Zola, Jean Moulin and André Malraux.

The Cluny Museum, housed in a 15th century Gothic mansion. This National Museum of the Middle Ages displays a unique collection of decorative arts from this period, including the legendary "Lady of the Licorne", as well as Roman baths.

The Church of Saint-Etienne-du-Mont, built from 1610 to 1626, the only Paris church with a rood screen. It honors its patron saint, Sainte-Geneviève, who saved the city from Attila and the Huns.

South of the Pantheon is another picturesque area centuring around lovely Place de la Contrescarpe, Place Monge and Mouffetard street, dating from Roman times, home to open air markets and small shops. It is a great spot to blend with the locals.

West of Monge street lies the Jardin des Plantes, laid out originally by Louis XIII's doctor to enable people to learn the names of plants and flowers. Enlarged by Buffon in 1739, it has become a real encyclopedia and experimental garden for French botanists. It is also home to the National History Museum, where visitors will discover the unity and diversity of life, as well as its dynamic evolution.

From the quays and bridges, or from square René-Viviani, you will have a spectacular view of Notre-Dame Church located on Ile de la Cité.

The hotels we have selected are all charming and reasonably priced. And do not forget that even if the area is old, it is very lively and will please the young at heart.