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The Quartier Latin

Map of The Quartier Latin

The Latin Quarter has been the center of French academia since the 13th century, so it's no surprise that the shopping, eating, and entertainment options appeal mainly to a student population, with a heavy focus on used CD and book stores, scruffy beer pubs and sandwich shops, and more than a few Internet cafés. Visitors can find surviving pockets of medieval Paris and Gallo-Roman ruins, both of which are highlighted at the Musée-National du Moyen-Age, or explore the culinary delights of the open markets at place Maubert or rue Mouffetard. Other attractions include the overrated Panthéon shrine of French luminaries at the top of the hill, and the much underrated Institut du Monde Arabe and Jardin des Plantes, hidden behind the ugly science college at métro Jussieu. There are many good-value hotels, but avoid the ones on the busy boulevards and rue des Ecoles if you're a light sleeper.

At a Glance

SIGHTS

RESTAURANTS

HOTELS

ENTERTAINMENT

SHOPPING

1. Jardin des Plantes
A gorgeous garden that encompasses three natural history museums.
2. Mosquée
Paris' most beautiful mosque is open to the public. Stop in for tea.
3. Musée National du Moyen-Age
Visit the unicorn tapestries in a flamboyant gothic mansion.
4. Pierre Hermé
The intensely flavored macarons here are a taste sensation.
Shakespeare and Company
This legendary English-language bookshop stays open until midnight.

PLACES TO EXPLORE

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