Paris’s 5th arrondissement is located on the left bank of the Seine, opposite Notre-Dame Cathedral on the opposite shore. It’s one of the oldest districts in Paris. A cosmopolitan mix of nationalities, it has always been home to young students, intellectuals and local families who have lived here for generations. The Latin Quarter, known the world over for its history and cultural influence, is largely located in the 5th arrondissement. Between history and culture, gourmet delights and nightlife… discover the many faces of this arrondissement. The 5th arrondissement is a perfect mix of history, culture, and Parisian charm, making it an essential stop for any visitor to Paris.
For a general view of the 20 arrondissements of Paris click on Which is the best arrondissement to stay in Paris?
Map of the 5th arrondissement of Paris – Points of interest
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A district of knowledge
The Jardin des Plantes
To the east of the 5th arrondissement and close to the banks of the Seine, the magnificent Jardin des Plantes is well worth a trip of several hours. This 24-hectare French garden is home to a number of remarkable trees and botanical curiosities, as well as lush greenhouses!
The Musée national d’histoire naturelle (MNHN) (National Museum of Natural History
The Jardin des Plantes is the location of the main site of the Muséum national d’histoire naturelle (MNHN), which has 14 sites throughout France and 4 in Paris (including the Musée de l’Homme in the Palais de Chaillot at Trocadéro and the Zoo de Paris in Vincennes, as well as the Menagerie du Jardin des Plantes). It is a French institution for teaching, research and the dissemination of naturalistic scientific culture (life sciences, earth sciences, anthropology and related disciplines), and a member of the Sorbonne University alliance. The Jardin des Plantes Museum site is itself divided into huge galleries, which are buildings that are museums in themselves. In all, it has a staff of around 2,350, including six hundred researchers.
The most interesting galleries located in the Jardin des Plantes to visit are :
- the Grande Galerie de l’Évolution (Great Gallery of Evolution), with its 7,000 animal specimens and skeletons.
- the Galerie de Paleontologie et d’ Anatomie comparée (Gallery of Paleontology and Comparative Anatomy). Click here for booking
- the Galerie de minéralogie et de géologie (Mineralogy and Geology Gallery) (the permanent “Treasures of the Earth” exhibition covers the entire mineral world). Click here for booking. In this gallery you can admire – among other things – some of the French Crown Jewels. The rest of the jewels are on display at the Ecole-des-Mines in Paris and, above all, at the Louvre museum. Booking Louvre Museum.
- the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes (Jardin des Plantes Menagerie), set in lush greenery and home to 600 animals, some of them endangered. Booking Menagerie
Quartier Latin (The Latin Quarter) – the intellectual heart of Paris
The Latin Quarter, known the world over for its history and cultural influence, is largely located in the 5th arrondissement. Along with the Île de la Cité, it’s the oldest district in Paris, with vestiges of the Gallo-Roman era, the mythical Sorbonne (where Cardinal Richelieu is buried), the Collège de France and the top-flight lycées Louis Le Grand and Henri IV. This is undoubtedly the intellectual heart of Paris, where every street exudes history. Its name dates back to the Middle Ages, when masters taught students in Latin only. It is also where you will find iconic addresses.
- The Sorbonne : Why visit?
- One of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Europe, dating back to the 13th century.
- The surrounding area is full of intellectual and academic history, with lively bookstores and cafés.
- While the interior is generally not open to the public, the architecture is worth admiring.
- The Pantheon : Why visit?
- A magnificent neoclassical mausoleum that honors France’s great thinkers like Voltaire, Rousseau, Victor Hugo, and Marie Curie.
- The crypt is fascinating, and the dome offers stunning panoramic views of Paris.
- The Collège de France : Why visit?
- A renowned institution of higher learning offering free public lectures on a variety of topics.
- Its historic buildings and academic legacy make it worth a visit.
A district of history: Paris and its origins
The 5th arrondissement is one of the historic birthplaces of Paris. Numerous witnesses to its history can still be seen today. Among the most remarkable are the Arènes de Lutèce, a Gallo-Roman amphitheatre built in the 1st century and the oldest remains in the city, and the ancient thermal baths adjacent to the Musée du Moyen-Âge. This museum is housed in the magnificent 13th-century Hôtel de Cluny. Last but not least, the monumental Pantheon on Mont Sainte-Geneviève, the tomb of all the nation’s greats.
5th arrondissement of Paris: a district of culture
Entre ses librairies anciennes mettant en lumière la littérature du monde entier, ses galeries d’art où contemporain et classique se côtoient, l’Institut du Monde Arabe et ses expositions thématiques et ses cinémas d’art et d’essai prestigieux, le 5e arrondissement fait la part-belle à la culture.
The cinema
Fans of arthouse cinema can head to the Studio des Ursulines, the Champo, the Reflet Médicis or the Filmothèque du Quartier Latin.
The literature
Specialized booksellers and publishers such as Eyrolles, J.Vrin, Pippa, la Librairie des PUF (Presses Universitaires de France), Album and Pulp’s Comics for comics, Présence Africaine, la Librairie Sud Est Asie, the Abbey Bookshop for Anglo-American authors… will be able to advise you.
And for fans of English-language literature, don’t miss out on the unrivalled charm of the famous Shakespeare and Company bookshop! Known for its cozy, labyrinth-like interior and connection to famous writers like Ernest Hemingway and James Joyce. Why visit? A legendary English-language bookstore with a rich literary history.
Museums of the 5th arrondissement of Paris
- Musée du Moyen-Âge de Cluny (National Museum of the Middle Ages) – including the superb Hôtel de Cluny, the medieval building that houses the museum : Why visit?
- A museum housed in a medieval mansion built over Roman baths.
- Famous for the Lady and the Unicorn tapestries.
- A fascinating journey through medieval art and history. Faire un Listing
- Grande Galerie de l’Évolution
- Galerie de Paleontologie et d’ Anatomie comparée
- Institut du Monde Arabe (Arab World Institute)
Monuments located in the 5th arrondissement of Paris
- Grande Mosquée de Paris (Great Mosque of Paris) et lieu de culte : Why visit?
- A beautiful mosque with Andalusian-style architecture and peaceful gardens.
- Houses a hammam, a restaurant and a tea room, a veritable oasis in the city.
- Features a delightful tea room where you can enjoy mint tea and Middle Eastern pastries. –> Faire un listing
- Collège des Bernardins
- Arènes de Lutèce : Why visit?
- A remnant of Roman Paris, this ancient amphitheater dates back to the 1st century AD.It’s a peaceful spot to relax and imagine the city’s Roman past. –> Faire un listing –> Chat GPT ????
Churches of the 5th arrondissement of Paris
- Saint-Étienne-du-Mont Church : Why visit?
- A stunning Gothic and Renaissance-style church near the Pantheon.
- Houses the tomb of Blaise Pascal and relics of Saint Geneviève, the patron saint of Paris.
- Known for its intricate architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
- Eglise Saint-Séverin : Why visit?
- A flamboyant Gothic style church with beautiful stained glass windows and a serene ambiance.
- Located near bustling streets, offering a quiet retreat from the lively neighborhood.
- The church and convent of Val-de-Grâce (architect: François Mansart) were built in the mid-17th century by Queen Anne of Austria in gratitude for the birth of Louis XIV. Since the Revolution, the convent has housed a military hospital. Inside the church: numerous sculptures and paintings by Philippe de Champaigne. The Musée du Service de santé des armées is housed in the magnificent cloister of the monumental Val-de-Grâce complex. It presents the history of the armed forces’ health service through the illustration of its main artistic missions, medical evacuation.
A gastronomic district in the 5th arrondissement of Paris
The 5th arrondissement is a gastronomic haven that combines Parisian tradition with modern, multicultural influences. Whether you’re indulging in a fine meal or savoring a simple crêpe on the go, you’re sure to experience the best of Parisian cuisine here! Bon appétit!
From rue Mouffetard to the Latin Quarter, the 5th arrondissement boasts a number of gourmet addresses.
Restaurants, cafés, bistrots
La Tour d’Argent. This is the first address to quote from this 2-Michelin-star restaurant. One of Paris’s most iconic restaurants, dating back to 1582, with stunning views of the Seine and Notre-Dame. World wide famous for its legendary pressed duck and extensive wine cellar. Classic French elegance and history. Location: 19 Quai de la Tournelle.
Les Papilles. An original French bistro offering a prix fixe menu that changes daily, paired with excellent wines from their shop. It is also a delicatessen shop and a fine wine cellar. Intimate and unpretentious. Location: 30 Rue Gay-Lussac.
Le Petit Prince de Paris. A charming, romantic bistro serving classic French dishes like duck confit and foie gras. Atmosphere: Cozy and intimate with vintage decor. Location: 12 Rue de Lanneau.
Le Pré Verre. Offers modern twists on traditional French cuisine, with inventive use of spices. Atmosphere: Trendy yet welcoming. Location: 8 Rue Thénard.
Café de la Nouvelle Mairie. A classic Parisian café with a focus on natural wines and simple but delicious food. Atmosphere: Friendly and relaxed. Location: 19 Rue des Fossés Saint-Jacques.
Authors’ tables such as Hugo & Co or Baïeta and world gastronomy restaurants such as ATICA and its Basque cuisine, the Kitchen Galerie Bis (KGB) or Lhassa are also present.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Le Grenier de Notre-Dame. One of Paris’s first vegetarian restaurants, serving hearty and wholesome dishes. Location: 18 Rue de la Bûcherie.
Bakeries and Patisseries, Ice creams and Crêpes
Numerous patissiers showcase their specialities and other sweet treats. From Georges Larnicol’s kouign amman and Maison Odette choux to Alberto’s Gelati artisanal ice creams and Flying Circus cinnamon rolls, sweet tooths will be spoilt for choice.
Maison Gaumer. A boutique patisserie offering delicate pastries and sweets, perfect for an indulgent treat.
Boulangerie Utopie. Famous for their creative bread and viennoiseries. Try: Their signature charcoal baguette.
Odette. A quaint shop specializing in choux pastries filled with a variety of creamy flavors. Atmosphere: Picturesque and ideal for a sweet break. Location: 77 Rue Galande.
Berthillon Ice Cream (Nearby on Île Saint-Louis) – World wide renowned. While technically in the 4th arrondissement, it’s just a short walk from the 5th. Known for its legendary artisanal ice cream. Must-try flavors: Salted caramel, pear, and pistachio. Location : 29-31 rue Saint-Louis en l’Île Paris 75004.
La Crêperie du Cloître. Fantastic sweet and savory crêpes in a charming, unassuming setting. Location: 5 Rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève.
Wine and Cheese
Bar à Fromage Androuet. A cozy spot to enjoy artisanal French cheeses, perfectly paired with wine. Atmosphere: Relaxed yet sophisticated. Location : 134 Rue Mouffetard, 75005 Paris
Le Petit Cluny Wine Bar. A casual yet refined bar offering a great selection of French wines and small plates of charcuterie and cheese. Location: 4 Rue de l’Hirondelle.
Food Markets of the 5th arrondissement of Paris
Marché Monge. A lively outdoor market selling fresh produce, cheese, meat, seafood, and flowers. Location: Place Monge, 75005.
Rue Mouffetard Market. One of Paris’s oldest streets, packed with shops selling artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and gourmet treats. Location : Rue Mouffetard.
Seine River Picnics
The riverside views, especially near the Île Saint-Louis, make for a quintessential Parisian experience. Grab some cheese, bread, and wine from Rue Mouffetard or Marché Monge, and enjoy a picnic along the banks of the Seine.
5th arrondissement of Paris – A district for going out
Jazz clubs, theaters, bars and cafés… rue Mouffetard, Saint-Michel and the Latin Quarter are known for their festive atmosphere, which often lasts until the early hours of the morning.
Rue de la Huchette
Narrow and cobbled, the famous rue de la Huchette alone is home to many festive bars, the théâtre de la Huchette – where La Cantatrice de Chauve has been performed since 1957 – and one of the city’s most cutting-edge jazz clubs, the Caveau de la Huchette. This lively street is packed with bars, pubs, and restaurants that stay open late. Though slightly touristy, it’s great for bar-hopping and people-watching. Popular spots include Le Saint Severin, a casual bar with outdoor seating and affordable drinks and The Galway Irish Pub, a relaxed Irish pub with live music and sports screenings.
Rue Mouffetard
A little further on, from the Place de la Contrescarpe, the mythical Rue Mouffetard and its typical bars pubs, and restaurants. with a warm atmosphere, such as the Caveau des Oubliettes. You wil also find The Bombardier, a British-style pub with craft beers and a great atmosphere and La Contrescarpe located at Place de la Contrescarpe. There are a variety of relaxed terraces and pubs and a highlight of Parisian nightlife.
Rue du Cardinal Lemoine
It is home to Paris’s oldest and weel known cabaret, Paradis Latin.
Other addresses
- Le Piano Vache : An iconic dive bar popular with students and locals, known for its eclectic decor, live music, and an old-school vibe, A favorite hangout spot near the Sorbonne.
- Shywawa Bar : A quirky, colorful bar with a tiki-inspired theme, great for cocktails, laid-back vibes, and a fun crowd. A little hidden gem on Rue de la Montagne Sainte-Geneviève.
- Delirium Café : Famous for its extensive selection of craft beers from around the world, casual and friendly atmosphere, perfect for beer enthusiasts. Located on Rue des Boulangers, it’s a popular spot with locals and visitors alike.
- Au Port du Salut : A cozy cabaret-style venue with live music performances and a warm atmosphere, offers a mix of jazz, chanson française, and modern acts. Great for an intimate night out.
- La Lucha Libre : A Mexican-themed bar with a unique twist: it has a wrestling ring where they host lucha libre matches! Fun cocktails, a lively vibe, and something totally out of the ordinary for a night out.
- Latin Quarter Wine Bars : The 5th is home to some excellent wine bars for a more refined evening.
Highlights include Le Baron Rouge, a classic spot for wine lovers, often featuring natural and organic wines and Les Pipos, a cozy wine bar with a great selection of French wines and a traditional vibe. - Student Hangouts : The proximity to the Sorbonne University and other schools means the 5th is filled with budget-friendly spots popular with students. Le Teddy’s Bar with affordable drinks and a cozy vibe. Also La Gueuze, known for its variety of beers and a laid-back atmosphere.
For quieter surrounding
- Place Monge & Nearby Streets a quieter yet lively area with more local bars and terraces. A mix of trendy spots and traditional bistros.
- Seine River Walks and Night Cruises : the Seine is lined with beautiful riverside spots for an evening stroll or drink. Consider a Seine River night cruise departing near the 5th for a romantic way to enjoy the city lights.
The 5th arrondissement of Paris : a district to visit by foot
Rue Mouffetard : Why visit?
- One of the oldest streets in Paris, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
- Filled with traditional shops, cafés, bakeries, and a daily market.
- Perfect for foodies and those looking for authentic Parisian charm.
Place de la Contrescarpe : Why visit?
- A lively square surrounded by restaurants and cafés, offering a quintessential Parisian vibe.
- Close to Rue Mouffetard, making it a great place to relax after exploring.
Quai de la Tournelle and Île Saint-Louis : Why visit?
- The Seine riverside in this area offers breathtaking views of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Île de la Cité.
- A perfect spot for a romantic walk or to enjoy a crêpe from a nearby stand.
- Enjoy a picnic along the banks of the Seine. Before grab some cheese, bread, and wine from Rue Mouffetard or Marché Monge.
Pont de la Tournelle
Built in 1928 on the remains of collapsed wooden bridges and a stone bridge rendered vulnerable by the great flood of 1910, the Pont de la Tournelle takes its name from an old tower of the Philippe-Auguste wall that once stood on this left bank quay.
Seine Riverbanks : Why visit?
- The 5th arrondissement is bordered by the Seine, providing access to scenic river walks.
- Look for the bouquinistes (riverside booksellers) offering vintage books and art.
Parks and Gardens of the 5th arrondissement
- Tino Rossi Garden
- Jardin des Plantes : Why visit?
- A beautiful botanical garden that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.
- Includes the Natural History Museum, Greenhouses, and a Menagerie (one of the oldest zoos in the world).
- Great for families and nature lovers
- Jardin de Cluny
- Arènes de Lutèce : Why visit?
- A remnant of Roman Paris, this ancient amphitheater dates back to the 1st century AD.
- It’s a peaceful spot to relax and imagine the city’s Roman past.
Tips for Visiting the 5th arrondissement of Paris
- Best times to visit: Early mornings for a quieter atmosphere, or evenings when the Latin Quarter comes alive with vibrant energy.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Many streets are cobblestoned, and you’ll likely be walking a lot.
- Explore hidden gems: Wander off the main streets to discover quaint alleys and lesser-known cafés.