Le Marais Walk 2.3 km or 1.4 miles / 1.0 hours
“The district known to locals as Le Marais used to be a bourgeois area in the past and a major center of the Paris Jewish community that still exists today. Here, you will find different bookshops specializing in Jewish books, restaurants with traditional Jewish food and a synagogue. As one of the hippest neighborhoods in the city, it also has no shortage of narrow medieval streets, unique boutiques and quirky restaurants, very much like London's Shoreditch. Le Marais is one of Paris's most historic districts and contains numerous architecturally important buildings.” —GPSmyCity
Hotel de Ville
the largest city hall in Europe
Walk continues down along the Seine, passing delightful cafes(Cafe Le Louis Philippe) and a quaint wine bar. In front a sign lures customers with “Lots of Wine”.
Passed a librairie with touristy brochures and books in the window. This was an area much loved by tourists before the pandemic hit Europe. The current travel restrictions have prevented the usual crowds of visitors from enjoying Paris in its summer glory.
Hotel de Sens
Built between 1474-1519, one of three medieval residences left in Paris
Has elements of a fortification structure- turrets (armoured towers for observing the surrounding area), square tower that served as a dungeon, arched entryway with sloping passages used to pour hot oil on attackers.
Walk around to the back and there is an elegant formal garden, just really charming, tucked away in the middle of a bustling city.
When in Le Marais, falafel is a must!
The Jewish influences in this area are noticeable.
Place des Vosges/ Maison de Victor Hugo
This plaza is lined with orange buildings and their signature gray roofs. The symmetric design of the buildings surrounding the park makes it feels like its own little world. The first floors are occupied by shops showcasing risqué artwork and a few busy restuarants (La Place Royale).
Here, I passed the home of Victor Hugo, where he wrote Les Miserables at least in part. I watched the musical for the first time when I arrived in Paris last year. I can imagine the sights and sounds of the historical story set in the revolutionary period in the very streets and alleys I casually walk through today.
I sat at the park to have my kafta wrap and falafels, the perfect comfort food after some cycling and a stroll. I was surprised to see so many people at the park- reading, laying out on the grass, enjoying picnics, children playing...overall having a pleasant Friday night (the time was about 21:30).
Cheers, bon week-end à vous!
Following my dinner at the late hour but typical to the French, I walked through Rue de Francs-Bourgeois and Rue des Rosiers which had a lot of upscale shops and jewelry stores. I’ll need to come back during the day to indulge in shopping and good coffee!
I followed the route starting at City Hall through the Marais using GPSmyCity. After today’s success, I’m looking forward to more city walks.
The walking path.
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