Art Walk in Saint Germain des Prés

Saint Germain des Prés is one of my all time favorite neighborhoods in Paris, and I’ve been fortunate enough to have been able to spend time there on several occasions throughout the years. But it wasn’t until this past trip that I discovered what I call the Art Walk in Saint Germain des Prés.

What had happened was…I was on my way home from the Musée d’Orsay and since my feet were growing tired, I thought maybe I should find a bus or métro for easier transportation. Then I said to myself, “nah…the apartment is really not that far, so why not just walk these last few blocks?” And that’s when I came across this beautiful art walk along the tiny streets in the 6th and part of the 7th arrondissements. But here’s the key…this walk has to be done at twilight or after dark. I don’t know what it is. Something happens in the streets of Paris when the lights are turned down. I went back to do this walk again during the day and while it was quite nice, it just wasn’t the same magic.

For this walk which is LOADED with galleries (especially along the Quais), I followed: Quai des Grands Augustins, Rue des Grands Augustins, Rue Christine, continuing to Passage Dauphine, Rue Mazarine, Quai de Conti, Quai Malaquais, Quai Voltaire, Rue de Bac, Rue de Lille, Rue de l’Université which turns into Rue Jacob, and ending at Place St. Germain des Prés. Be on the lookout for #7 Rue des Grands Augustins where Picasso once lived. His good friend Gertrude Stein was just around the corner at #5 Rue Christine. At #40 Rue Jacob is a charming little wine bar called Le petit Jacob where you’ll find great selections by the glass and tasty small plates as pairings!

For me, it’s more than the art galleries. It’s the combination of architecture, the storefront displays, the decor inside of cafés, the lighting, the people and of course the beautiful art work inside the galleries and antique shops. Like my friend Christiane always says, Paris is a visual feast! Je suis totalement d’accord (agreed)!