Stroll a Parisian Flower Market

Did you know that in medieval times, cathedrals were completely painted with bright colors, both inside and out? None of this painting remains except on the inside of Sainte-Chapelle, another fantastic church known for its stained glass windows. You’ll find it hidden within the walls of the Palais de Justice.

On your way back to Le Marais from Ile de la Cité, be sure to stop at the incredible flower market. There are nearly 50 stalls offering thousands of potted flowers. From Paris’ popular geraniums to sophisticated orchids – and everything in between – these floral gems are all anticipating a peaceful life in a Parisian window. Take one home with you!

Marvel at Notre Dame

Cross the Pont St Louis and you’ll find yourself on Ile de la Cité. At the east end of this island is the World War II memorial, just by square Jean XXIII. The island is home to the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, the masterpiece of gothic architecture built in the 1100s. It has just undergone a major cleaning project and is now even more magnificent with its pure white stones contrasting against the blue Parisian sky – the perfect photo op.

Tour Hotel de Sens

Closer to the Seine and the St. Marie Bridge in Village Saint Paul, stop by the Hotel de Sens, former house of the Archbishop of the City of Sens. With its renaissance style and gothic remains, you’ll feel more like you’re in the Loire Valley than in Paris.
Continue across the bridge and you’ll be on Ile Saint Louis, an island that is a favorite among Americans. This is the real Paris, so magical that you can’t help but fall in love with the city. The Ile is also home to many charming and affordable restaurants, offering great menus for less than 30 euros. Perhaps a bit touristy, but a great walking tour.

Walk Village Saint Paul

The Village Saint Paul is truly a village – it is a self-contained area dedicated to peace and the art of living. This tiny block of houses with its stone streets is entirely pedestrian and accessible only through arched passageways. It is located just behind Saint Paul Church, between the noisy rue de Rivoli and the busy road bordering the Seine.
Just to the west of Village Saint Paul, you’ll notice a long medieval wall with towers. This is the only section left of the Philippe Auguste fortifications. Dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries, Paris was only the size of today’s first six districts. The city was a fortress, completely surrounded by walls and towers to keep out criminals.

A Grand Parisian Manse

Much like all of Paris, walking around the grounds of Hôtel de Sully is like stepping back into the past. Located in the historic Marais district, it was built by Jean Androuet du Cerceau in 1625 and purchased ten years later by Sully, the former minister of Henri IV. There are two courtyards, the first paved with cobblestones, the second a quiet grassy area and garden featuring statues representing the four elements and the seasons.
The building is currently occupied by the Caisse Nationale des Monuments Historiques et des Sites. It is also home to an extensive bookshop with items focusing on Paris.