Arrondissements 7
The 7th arrondissement - the Saint-Germain des Pres - is an old established area that is home to many government ministries, embassies and wonderful old hotel particuliers. The Musee d'Orsay, home to fabulous Impressionist collections, the Tour Eiffel and the Invalides with its gold-topped dome and the musee Rodin are four good reasons to visit this exciting area.
The Boulevard Saint-Germain runs through the center from the Assemblee Nationale to the Institute Du Monde Arab. The Saint-Germain - Odeon area is full of cinemas and loads of people, Saturday nights are busy and the streets tend to get clogged with cars and people.
If you want to splurge, stop by one of the famous cafes - Deux magot and Cafe Flore - and grab a chair on the terrace for premium people viewing. Or if shopping is your thing, you're in the right place. From clothes and bookstores you'll find it all here. Art galleries are everywhere and if the prices are a little out of reach, window-shopping is a great way to take in all the talent. The Bon Marche, the oldest department store in Paris is definitely worth some time, and don't miss the Epicurean 'grocery' store - the quality of food is excellent.
Be sure to stop by the Church of Saint Germain des Pres. Built in the 6th century, was used as a Bendictine monastery. Don't miss the small head of a woman done by Picasso in the corner of the courtyard.
There is so much to do and see in the 7th, this is just a small inkling of all the many great things this area offers.
MM
