“Imagine King Louis IX, later known as Saint Louis himself, seeking solace.” This is Place Saint-Louis. It’s found on the Île Saint-Louis. This island is one of two natural islands in Paris. The other is Île de la Cité.
Île Saint-Louis got its name in 1725. It was named after King Louis IX. Legend says the king often prayed on the Île aux Vaches. This island was on the eastern side of today’s Île Saint-Louis.
Now, Place Saint-Louis sits within a historical area. This area has hotels with flamboyant fronts facing the Seine. The island was once called Île des Palais. This was because of these very hotels. The island’s perfect architectural cohesion attracts visitors. Urban construction projects during Louis XIII’s reign shaped the island in the 17th century.
Admire these architectural treasures along Rue Saint-Louis-en-l’Île. This street cuts through the island’s center. Or walk along Quai de Béthune. It faces the left bank. Don’t miss Hôtel Chenizot at number 53 Rue Saint-Louis-en-l’Île. Also see Hôtel Lefebvre de la Malmaison at number 22 Quai de Béthune. Baudelaire lived here between 1842 and 1843. Both hotels have stunning fronts.
Six bridges connect Île Saint-Louis to Paris. It is a peaceful place away from the city’s bustle. Many political figures and celebrities live here. Former president Georges Pompidou lived at number 24 Rue de Béthune.
Rue Saint-Louis is lined with adorable boutiques. They have attractive fronts and tempting window displays. Food lovers can find quality restaurants. They serve traditional French dishes. There are also pleasant tea rooms.
For a treat, visit Maison Berthillon for ice cream. It is at numbers 29-31 Rue Saint-Louis-en-l’Île. This place has represented French know-how since 1954. They also serve breakfast and pastries. If the main branch is closed try Flore en l’Île. This is another ice cream maker. It also has a tea room and restaurant. They serve ice cream and pastries from Maison Berthillon. The terrace faces the Saint-Louis bridge. It offers sunshine and views of Notre-Dame.
Île Saint-Louis was once two islands. These were Île Notre-Dame and Île aux Vaches. They were used for grazing cows. In 1267, the area was renamed for Louis IX. He had departed for the Crusades. In the 17th century, the islands merged. Architect Louis Le Vau led the transformation. The island became a chic residential district.
Builders created beautiful mansions. Le Vau designed homes for the wealthy. These include Hôtel Lambert and Hôtel de Lauzun on Quai d’Anjou.
The main attraction is the church St-Louis-en-L’Ile. Streets around it have restaurants and art galleries. You can also find small hotels and boutiques. They sell cheese and silk scarves.
Île Saint-Louis lacks the big tourist draws. But it enchants with its quiet charm. So, enjoy your time here at Place Saint-Louis. It is a perfect Parisian escape.