Île Saint-Louis

The Basics

Originally used for cattle grazing, Île Saint-Louis was formally developed under the orders of King Louis XIII in the early 17th century. Connected to the Left and Right Banks by four bridges (the Pont de la Tournelle, the Pont Marie, the Pont Sully, and the Pont Louis-Philippe) and to Île de la Cité by the Pont Saint-Louis, the island is at once easily accessible but also an unspoiled slice of historical Paris. Long a retreat for the city’s wealthy, Île Saint-Louis still retains its aristocratic allure, and its narrow streets and traditional buildings make it a tranquil place to stroll.

Walking and bike tours are an excellent way to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and admire views of the UNESCO-listed Banks of the Seine and neighboring Notre Dame (located on the eastern edge of Île de la Cité). Seine River cruises also reveal another picturesque perspective on the island.

Things to Know Before You Go

• For a glimpse of Île Saint-Louis’ glamorous past, seek out grandiose mansions like the Hôtel Lambert and the Hôtel de Lauzun, both built in the 17th century.

• The island’s main thoroughfare, rue Saint-Louis en l’Île, is home to numerous boutiques and cafes.

• As the island is just 1,772 feet (540 meters) long, it’s easily seen on foot.

How to Get There

The centrally located Île Saint-Louis is accessible by Métro line 7, which stops at the nearby Sully-Morland and Pont Marie stations. Bus lines 24, 63, 67, 87, and 88 also stop nearby. Amblers can reach the island by crossing one of several bridges that connect it to the Left and Right Banks.

When to Get There

Like any Paris neighborhood, Île Saint-Louis is a destination that appeals in all four seasons. As with the rest of the city, it is at its quietest during August, when many Parisians leave for a multi-week holiday; expect many of its shops, restaurants, and cafes to be closed during the grandes vacances.

Berthillon

Though Île Saint-Louis is primarily a residential area, one of its top highlights is Berthillon: a luxury ice cream parlor that has operated here since the 1950s. This is a Paris cult classic, and getting a scoop is a must on any visit to the island.

Ways to explore

Walking and bike tours are an excellent way to soak up the peaceful atmosphere and linger over views of the UNESCO–listed Banks of the Seine and neighboring Notre-Dame (on the eastern edge of Île de la Cité). Seine River cruises are also a picturesque way to see the island, which was originally used for cattle grazing. Connected to the Left and Right Banks by four bridges (the Pont de la Tournelle, the Pont Marie, the Pont Sully, and the Pont Louis-Philippe) and to Île de la Cité by the Pont Saint-Louis, the island is both easily accessible and an unspoiled slice of historical Paris.

Accessibility

Île Saint-Louis is accessible to wheelchairs, though some sidewalks are narrow.

Age limits

This quiet corner of Paris has a fraction of the traffic in the rest of the city, so it’s ideal for families with young children to walk around.

What to pack

Camera, sun hat, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, sunscreen

Not allowed

Swimming in the Siene is only allowed at designated spots along the river, none of which are located on Île Saint-Louis.

Amenities

Cafés and eateries, shops, public park with benches

Address

Stroll over to the centrally located island by crossing one of several bridges that connect it to the Left and Right Banks. Île Saint-Louis is also accessible by metro from locations across Paris, and can be seen on river cruises and guided tours.

Driving

With narrow streets and limited parking, Île Saint-Louis is not easy to reach by car. Park at a garage in central Paris across the river and walk to the island.

Public transportation

Île Saint-Louis is accessible by metro line 7, which stops at the nearby Sully-Morland and Pont Marie stations. Bus lines 24, 63, 67, 87, and 88 also stop nearby.

Best times to visit

This postcard-perfect island in Paris is particularly photogenic in the morning and late afternoon. Meanwhile, its restaurants and cafés have a special charm after nightfall.

Best days to visit

The island buzzes with Parisians out taking a stroll on Sundays, when buskers line the Pont Saint-Louis and the cafés and restaurants teem with patrons.

Best months to visit

Like any Paris neighborhood, Île Saint-Louis is a destination with year-round appeal. As with the rest of the city, though, it’s at its quietest in August, when many Parisians head out of town; expect many of its shops, restaurants, and cafés to be closed during the grandes vacances in the heat of summer.

Special events

The island often hosts craft fairs, concerts, and other cultural events. Check the official Paris tourism website for an updated calendar.