The Ile Saint-Louis is one of two islands (the other being Ile de la Cité) in the Seine river, in Paris, France. The island is named after King Louis IX of France (Saint Louis). The article below will summarize just some of the fun of visiting this wonderful place.
Each season lots of tourists head to the Ile de la Cité island in Paris, home of Notre Dame Cathedral. But many overlook its charming little sister, the adorable Ile Saint Louis. Many Paris apartments can allow you to live within walking distance of the quaint beauty of this charming locale.
Originally these two islands were called the Ile aux Vaches (Island of Cows) and the Ile Notre-Dame, where judicial duels were held during the Middle Ages. The two islands were united in the 17th century. Lords and rich noblemen built their homes here afterward, making it an enclave of the wealthy. It remains a very fashionable and exclusive district today.
Famous residents have included artists Camille Claudel, Cézanne, Honoré Daumier, the poet Baudelaire and writer philosopher Voltaire. Marie Curie also lived here, as did Georges Pompidou and the Baron de Rothschild.
Today, the Ile de Saint-Louis is a lovely little island in the Seine with luxurious 17th century townhouses and charming shops and restaurants which cater to the tourist. The mansions by themselves are a sight to behold.
You must cross either the Pont Marie or the Pont St. Louis to reach the Ile St. Louis's main street, the quaint, village-like Rue St. Louis en L’Ile. It's just a few blocks long, but you can find everything you need: boulangerie, fromagerie, cafes, grocer, restaurants, shops, and world famous ice cream. Let us help you select from many Paris vacation apartments nearby.
Think of this small island as an oasis from the rush of modern Paris. Like a small French village in the center of Paris, the ile remains romantically frozen in the 17th century, remarkably preserved as it was centuries ago.
It was once known as “Cow Island” because the ile was once used for the grazing of market cattle and stocking wood. It was mapped and built from end to end during the 17th-century reigns of Henri IV and Louis XIII. As such, it can be seen as one of France's first examples of urban planning.
This peaceful oasis has no métro stations and only two bus stops. Be sure to visit the one large church, the Eglise St. Louis en L’Isle. First built in 1622, this atmospheric church is surprisingly impressive and immense, and features a vast, stunning wooden door adorned with angels. See it like a local with a Paris apartment short term rental.
Don't miss famous Berthillon ice cream: The only authentic Berthillon flavor can be found here, in several spots around the island. Envelop your senses with this delicious ice cream in rich colors and equally intense flavors. Although many varieties exist to excite the palate, the dark chocolate (“chocolat noir”) and mango (“mangue”) are some of the most popular. For the most authentic experience, enjoy this dessert at its birthplace at 31, rue St Louis-en-l'Ile.
When you’re ready for some boutique shopping, just head to the island's main street, rue de Saint Louis en Ile, filled with specialty boutiques and shops. Unique souvenirs can still be discovered here. There is an upscale toy store, a shop devoted to handcrafted puppets, a chocolate shop, a couple of gourmet shops, art galleries and more.
The small bridge that connects Ile Saint Louis with Ile de la Cité is a popular spot for street performers, from jugglers and mimes to jazz combos. Your Paris apartment rental Ile Saint Louis will take you there.
Considering the tiny size of this island, there is an impressive number of restaurants to choose from, especially concentrated near Pont Saint-Louis, from upscale to a couple that are more lower-priced. Have a drink at Franc Pinot cabaret, 1, quai de Bourbon, just near the intersection with Pont Marie. A popular pub since the 17th century, this bar exudes true French laissez-faire spirit.
Located in the very center of Paris, a great many attractions are within walking distance, including Notre Dame Cathedral, just a few steps away. The Seine River, one of Paris' best attractions, literally surrounds this island. Of course, no trip to Paris would be complete without kissing your sweetheart while on one of the bridges that cross the Seine.
The Centre Pompidou Museum of Modern Art is a must-see, with its elaborate tubing, and the colorful Stravinsky Fountain is the perfect place for family travel photos to last a lifetime.
