If you’re not staying in the Right Bank neighborhoods of the Marais or the 8th, why not explore the beautiful streets and charming shops of the 6th, aka Saint-Germain-des-Prés, on the Left Bank?
Where to Sleep
Hotel Dame des Arts: What the rooms lack in size (they’re so teeny tiny, you’ll wonder where to store your luggage; the only place is under the bed) they more than make up for it with charming balconies overlooking the streets of the sixth, a jaw-dropping rooftop bar with views of the Eiffel, and a sleek wood-paneled gym that will inspire workouts even on vacation.
Eat Like an Olympic Sport
Avant Comptoir de la Mer and Avant Comptoir de la Terre: Side by side wine bars. Head inside past the street bar with a few seats outside to uncover a narrow indoor bar with about a dozen seats and a few high-top tables. Menu items hang on placards from the ceiling and the bread & giant column of butter are not to be missed. There’s also an Avant Comptoir du Marche two blocks away, so go for the hat trick.
Le Relais de l’Entrecote: Disclaimer: It’s touristy, but it’s worth it. Located in the heart of the sixth around the corner from influencer traps like Cafe de Flore and Les Deux Magots (I can’t bring myself to visit either, sorry), le Relais is famous for its infinity steak frites, as in, all-you-can-eat fries and steak served with a green peppercorn sauce. The meal starts off with a simple green salad, and the mostly female staff don iconic black & white dresses. There may be a line depending on when you visit, but late afternoon is always a good bet where you have a better chance of scoring a seat on the terrace facing the street to watch the world go by.
Drink Like a Local
The Rooftop at Hotel Dame des Arts: Plan a visit to the rooftop bar around sunset for a spritz and incredible views of the city, including the Eiffel Tower.
Jardin du Luxembourg: Grab a bottle of wine & some snacks from La Grande Epicerie and find a cozy spot in one of the prettiest gardens in all of Paris. Keep an eye out for the mini Statue of Liberty near the west entrance.
Shopping

La Grande Epicerie: If your type of kink is visiting posh grocery stores when you travel, you cannot miss La Grand Epicerie. From wine & alcohol to bakery items and prepared foods, this place has it all.
Le Bon Marche: Right across the street from La Grande Epicerie is Le Bon Marche, a department store with all the high-end boutiques.
Stalk the Stylish Locals
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Taylor is an American expat living in the 6th. Her photos of Paris are incredible.