Historical Saint Germain Paris Private Tour
Timeless charm private tour of Saint Germain
Saint Germain des Prés Private Tour stands as a testament to Paris’s timeless charm. This historical area of Paris offers a rich tapestry of experiences for those who wish to explore beyond the usual tourist spots. And when it comes to getting a true insider’s experience, PARIS BY EMY provides the ultimate private tour. Your tailored tour gives for in-depth exploration of Saint Germain’s many highlights. Saint Germain offers a perfect blend of Parisian history and modernity. A private tour ensures a personal touch, allowing you to delve deeply into its hidden alleys, iconic landmarks, schools, academies and intimate courtyards without the crowds.
The Saint Germain most influential thinkers Private Tour
Saint Germain is more than just a neighborhood. Indeed, it’s a cultural landmark in Paris that has hosted some of the most influential thinkers, writers, and artists in history. Voltaire and the philosophers of the enlightment were in Saint Germain. The leaders of the French Revolution such as Danton, Robespierre, were also in Saint Germain. The Saint-Germain-des-Prés area in Paris has historically been a hub for intellectuals, philosophers, and artists, especially in the 20th century such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir, Camus, Boris Vian, Juliette Gréco. After WWII, this neighborhood became a meeting point for many influential thinkers, often gathering in its famous cafés like Les Deux Magots and Café de Flore.
PARIS BY EMY Saint Germain Private Tour
PARIS BY EMY stands out by offering immersive and customizable tours led by knowledgeable locals who know Paris inside out. This private tour service ensures you don’t just see the sights but truly experience them, with personal anecdotes, historical insights, and access to hidden gems that only locals know about. PARIS BY EMY caters to your interests, making every tour unique and deeply personal.
Tailor-Made Private Tour Guide
| Pricing | Custom Features | Duration | Number of people |
|---|---|---|---|
| From 240 Euros | With hotel pick up | 2 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 360 Euros | With hotel pick up | 3 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 480 Euros | With hotel pick up | 4 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 720 Euros | Hotel pick up lunch break | 6 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| From 850 Euros | With guide and driver | 4 hours | Up to 6 persons |
| Upon quotation | Your choice | Your choice | Your choice |
Top Things in Saint Germain on a Private Tour
Let’s dive into the five most captivating experiences you can expect on a PARIS BY EMY private tour through the historic and artistic landscape of Saint Germain.
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Historic Cafés and Literary Spots Private Tour
Saint Germain is famously known for its legendary cafés that served as gathering spots for intellectuals, writers, and artists. Two of the most iconic spots are Café de Flore and Les Deux Magots, both of which have become synonymous with Parisian literary culture. Notable philosophers such as Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and the writer Ernest Hemingway once frequented these establishments. Today, they still maintain an aura of the past, and sitting here feels like stepping back in time.
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Saint Germain Iconic Churches Private Tour
No visit to Saint Germain is complete without exploring its iconic churches. The Saint-Sulpice Church is an architectural marvel, known for its stunning interiors and historic organ. Equally mesmerizing is the Church of Saint Germain des Prés, the oldest church in Paris, dating back to the 6th century. Both churches provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city and are steeped in history and spirituality.
The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés
The Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés is one of the oldest churches in Paris, dating back to the 6th century. Originally founded by King Childebert I, it served as a major religious and intellectual center during the Middle Ages. The abbey’s Romanesque and Gothic architecture, particularly its impressive bell tower and stained glass, makes it a beautiful example of early medieval church design. Historically, the abbey was also a burial site for Merovingian royalty. Today, it stands as a central landmark of the neighborhood and a symbol of Paris’s long and layered history.
The Church of Saint-Sulpice
The Church of Saint-Sulpice is one of the largest and most beautiful churches in Paris, second only in size to Notre-Dame. Built in the 17th century, it features a striking Baroque design, with twin towers and an impressive facade. Inside, visitors can see grand frescoes by Eugène Delacroix, including his famous work Jacob Wrestling with the Angel. The church is also known for its magnificent organ, one of the most famous in the world, which attracts both local and international organists. Additionally, Saint-Sulpice gained renewed attention as a setting in The Da Vinci Code, bringing even more visitors to admire its architecture and history.
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Art Galleries, Boutiques and books stores of Saint Germain Private Tour
For art lovers and fashion enthusiasts, Saint Germain is a paradise of unique galleries and chic boutiques. The area boasts several prestigious art galleries, showcasing both classic and contemporary works. And for those looking to shop, Saint Germain’s boutiques offer a range of artisanal items, designer clothing, and vintage finds. It’s the perfect place to pick up a Parisian treasure.
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche (Left Bank)
Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche, the world’s first department store, opened its doors in 1852 in Paris, at the instigation of Aristide Boucicaut and his wife Marguerite. Both advocate “a new trade, inviting the explosion of all the senses”. Combining non-conformism and elegance, this unique place designed by the architect Louis-Charles Boileau and the engineer Gustave Eiffel displays a unique style, imbued with the creative vitality specific to the left bank of Paris.
Iconic significant bookstores in Saint Germain
Saint-Germain-des-Prés in Paris is home to some of the most iconic and historically significant bookstores, reflecting the area’s deep ties to literature, philosophy, and the arts. Nestled in the heart of the intellectual Left Bank, these bookstores have long served as gathering spots for writers, thinkers, and readers from around the world. Founded by the prestigious French publishing house Éditions Gallimard, Librairie Gallimard has been a fixture in Saint-Germain since 1950. Gallimard was instrumental in publishing works by many prominent French writers, including Marcel Proust and Albert Camus. The bookstore is known for its selection of French and international literature, making it a favorite for those seeking classic and contemporary literary works. Its connection to Gallimard Publishing adds a historical prestige, as the bookstore is associated with the publishing of some of France’s greatest literary works.
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Museum of the Luxembourg Gardens
In 2010, the Senate delegated the management of the museum to the Réunion des musées nationaux – Grand Palais with the mission of organizing exhibitions. Three programming axes, linked to the history of the place, are privileged: “the Renaissance in Europe”, “art and power” and “the Palace, the Garden and the Museum”. The Luxembourg Museum was the first French museum open to the public in 1750, and from 1818 became the first museum of contemporary art. Its history is intimately linked to the Palais du Luxembourg, where it was first installed, and of the Senate.
One of the most beautiful green spaces in Paris, the Luxembourg Gardens is a haven of peace and natural beauty. The gardens, established in the 17th century, are filled with charming fountains, manicured flowerbeds, and picturesque statues. Take a leisurely stroll or sit by the pond to enjoy the serene atmosphere, making it an ideal spot to unwind during the tour.
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Discovering Secret Courtyards and Alleys – Saint Germain Private Tour
Beyond the main streets, Saint Germain is filled with hidden alleys and private courtyards that reveal the area’s intimate character. These lesser-known spots often hide beautiful architectural details, quaint homes, and delightful small gardens. Exploring these hidden corners with a local guide from PARIS BY EMY allows you to see a side of Paris that’s off the beaten path.
The Cour du Commerce Saint-André private tour
The Cour du Commerce Saint-André, small, hidden passageway near Boulevard Saint-Germain is full of charm, with cobblestone streets and historical significance. Cour du Commerce Saint-André has been home to several famous establishments, including the historic café Le Procope, the oldest café in Paris. The passage also holds significance for being the location where the guillotine was first tested during the French Revolution. Today, it’s filled with quaint shops and cafes, offering a glimpse into Paris’s past.
Rue Jacob and Rue Bonaparte
Known for its literary and artistic history, Rue Jacob has been home to many influential figures, including writer Ernest Hemingway. The street is lined with charming 18th-century buildings, boutiques, and art galleries, creating a timeless Parisian atmosphere. Rue Jacob is also close to Librairie La Hune and other famous bookstores, cementing its reputation as an essential part of Saint-Germain’s literary culture. Rue Bonaparte has many literary associations and contains several second-hand booksellers and bookstores specializing in old books.
Major Institution in Saint Germain : The Institut de France
The Collège des Quatre-Nations by Cardinal Mazarin in Saint Germain
The building was originally constructed as the Collège des Quatre-Nations by Cardinal Mazarin. It was a school for students from new provinces attached to France under Louis XIV in 1648. Financed by Cardinal Mazarin, the Collège des Quatre Nations was intended for the instruction of 60 gentlemen. It was built between 1662 and 1674 by the architect Louis Le Vau and his successor François II d’Orbay.
Finally, the prestigious Mazarine library was bequeathed to the college with the directive of opening it to people of letters. Many brilliant minds of the time studied, including the mathematician d’Alembert, Diderot’s work companion, and the chemist Lavoisier.
The scientific, literary and artistic elites of Saint Germain
Nowadays, the Institut de France is not a college anymore but a French institution since 1795. It brings together the scientific, literary and artistic elites of the nation. Indeed, they work together to perfect the sciences and the arts. Moreover, they work to develop independent thinking and to advise public authorities. Placed under the protection of the President of the Republic, the Institut de France is an independent advisory body to public authorities. They are supporting culture, progress – scientific and societal – and social action through its sheltered foundations and its Awards.
Les Beaux-Arts de Paris in Saint Germain
Les Beaux-Arts de Paris, or the École des Beaux-Arts, is a prestigious art school located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Established in 1648, it is one of the oldest and most esteemed art schools in the world. Indeed, it has been influential in shaping the direction of fine arts in France and beyond.
Historical Significance of Saont Germain art school
Located in the heart of Saint-Germain, the École des Beaux-Arts became a major center for artistic innovation. Especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its academic training focused on classical techniques and disciplines. It has been producing generations of painters, sculptors, and architects. Those had a profound impact on European art. The school’s influence was immense, setting standards for aesthetics, technique, and artistic rigor, and attracting students from around the world.
Academic Training and the Prix de Rome
The school was known for its intense focus on drawing, anatomy, and the study of classical works. Students studied from live models, practiced in-depth figure drawing, and developed strong foundations in art history and technique. For many years, the prestigious Prix de Rome competition was a highlight for students. Winners received a scholarship to study in Rome at the Villa Medici. It was seen as a critical stepping stone for young artists aiming to establish a successful career.
Influence on Art Movements
While the École des Beaux-Arts was rooted in academic tradition, it also became associated with the evolution of modern art. The institution initially resisted movements like Impressionism. However, many of its students and former faculty went on to become leaders in various avant-garde movements. It was including Neo-Classicism, Romanticism, and eventually, Modernism.
Notable Alumni
Many famous artists, including Edgar Degas, Henri Matisse, Gustave Moreau, Claude Monet, and Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, studied at Les Beaux-Arts. Its graduates have contributed immensely to various fields, from fine arts and sculpture to architecture and art education, influencing the artistic landscape internationally.
Cultural Importance in Saint-Germain
Situated in Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Les Beaux-Arts de Paris is surrounded by a vibrant cultural scene, with galleries, cafés, and museums that foster artistic dialogue. The area has a long history as a meeting point for artists, writers, and intellectuals, and the proximity to institutions like the Musée d’Orsay and Louvre further enriches students’ artistic experiences.
Best Time to Visit Saint Germain
The charm of Saint Germain is present year-round. However spring and early autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and blooming gardens. During these seasons, outdoor café terraces come alive, and the Luxembourg Gardens are at their most colorful.
Saint Germain Private Walking or Driving Tours
Exploring Saint Germain with PARIS BY EMY is more than just sightseeing. A private tour guided by passionate locals who are eager to share their city with you. From literary cafés to hidden alleys, each stop on the tour adds a layer to the story of Paris. You gain unparalleled access to local knowledge, historical insights, and a tailored experience. Moreover, you’ll explore at your own pace. You will be visiting the sights that interest you the most, and bypassing the usual tourist crowds. It’s an ideal way to truly connect with Paris.
Finally, discover Saint Germain area in Paris within PARIS BY EMY bespoke Private Tour Package, for walking tour or private driving tour.
Emy,