Maison Adrienne is located in Saint-Germain-des-Pres, a village-like district situated in the centre of Paris. Attracting visitors from all over the world for centuries, this stunning region offers an exciting mix of culture and heritage, with plenty to explore. Not to be missed during your stay is the Eglise Saint-Germain-des-Pres, the oldest abbey in Paris, dating back to 543. In the 19th century the building became a church and was renovated to include magnificent frescoes and paintings. Not far from here you’ll discover the literary cafes of Les Deux Magots, Cafe de Flore and Brasserie Lipp, which were regular meeting spots for members of Paris’ literary and artistic crowd during the 20th century. Writers, painters, sculptors, and musicians including Jean-Paul Sarte, Pablo Picasso, Albert Camus and Simone de Beauvoir came here to work and converse and to find inspiration - and perhaps you will too as you soak up the glorious Parisian atmosphere! A short stroll further along the boulevard will reveal some of the city’s most celebrated fashion boutiques - including Dior, Ralph Lauren, and Armani - as well as shops selling French fragrances and fine, artisan chocolates.
A popular attraction here that might be familiar to you is the Pont des Arts, a beautiful cast iron footbridge that spans the Seine and leads to the Louvre Museum across the water. Immortalised over the years by photographers and filmmakers alike, it is the place to visit if you’re looking to enjoy a relaxed and laid-back atmosphere - particularly in the summer - when waterside picnics are the order of the day. Once known as the bridge for lovers, couples would once leave a lock attached to the railings as a symbol of love, although this practice was banned in 2015 after it threatened the structure of the bridge.
Paris and fine-food goes hand-in-hand, and you’ll find no shortage of amazing places to eat while you’re in Saint-Germain-de-Pres, including the iconic Procope, which has been serving up traditional French cuisine since 1686, and Emporio Armani Ristorante, where you can enjoy Michelin star Italian food in chic and luxurious surroundings. After dark the neighbourhood comes alive, with many bars and bistros serving into the early hours. If it’s craft cocktails and an impressive gin selection you’re after, be sure to visit Tiger or Prescription Cocktail Club, where you can enjoy prohibition-style cocktails in a low-lit, speakeasy-style environment.
The Region
Fall in love with la ville lumière during your time in Paris, one of the most famous capital cities in the world.
Everyone has different reasons for visiting this beautiful city. Perhaps you hope to visit some of Paris’ fine museums and art galleries, climb the Eiffel Tower or shop to your hearts content along the iconic boulevards. You may prefer to simply wander around the city parks, enjoy leisurely lunches on the left bank before strolling across Pont Neuf to admire the grandeur of the Louvre.
Discover the many charming neighbourhoods of Paris following the footsteps of famous writers, artists and philosophers. Start off on the right bank in Le Marais, the Jewish quarter, with its boutiques, old bakeries and kiosks selling delicious falafel (expect a queue!) – take a guided walking tour to learn all about this neighbourhood’s heritage. On the other side of the river, soak up the student ambience of the Latin Quarter, home to La Sorbonne, and sip coffee on a café terrace on Boulevard Saint-Germain for a truly iconic Parisian experience.
Meanwhile, a walk around Jardin du Luxembourg is a must, especially for families who will adore the little boats by the fountain, donkey rides, carrousel and a popular new playground (with an entry fee). Pack a picnic and sit on a bench beneath the shady trees as you people watch Parisians and tourists alike making the most of this atmospheric park.
Keen shoppers will appreciate the likes of Galeries Lafayette as well as the luxury stores of the Champs-Elysées. If you are visiting Le Centre Pompidou, you could also walk up to the vast Forum des Halles for recognisable brands in central Paris. Not forgetting the many markets from the twice-weekly Bastille Market selling delicious food to the sprawling weekend flea market at Marché aux Puces de St-Ouen that dates back to the late 19th century.
Embrace the romantic ambience of Paris when you walk by the river on La Rive Droite with beautiful views as you pass Île Saint-Louis and Île de la Cité. It’s especially lovely as evening nears with vibrant bars by the riverside whilst children will love the play areas and climbing walls as you stroll. Look out for the Eiffel Tower in the far distance which sparkles so magically on the hour from dusk.
