paris step by step – the 7th arrondissement

by Sharon Santoni

Picking back up on the series, here’s another instalment of ‘Paris step by step’, where I give you a few tips and suggestions for Paris’ lovely quartiers. Today, we are in the 7th arrondissement.

close up of pink flowers with eiffel tower in soft focus in the background

Historically home to the upper crust of Parisian society, the 7th arrondissement is certainly still one of the most posh and elite areas of Paris today. An afternoon stroll through this neighbourhood will take you past national institutions, foreign embassies, world-class museums, and of course… the Iron Lady herself.

statue of a judge in front of the palais bourbon

The 7th has some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Paris – be sure to walk down the Rue de l’Université, which takes you behind the Musée d’Orsay, past the Invalides, and ends at the Eiffel tower.

view of the eiffel tower from the rue de l'universite

If visiting museums is your activity of choice, the 7th offers a lovely variety of world-renowned collections. Perhaps the most recognizable museum is the golden-domed Musée des Invalides, a military museum with one of the largest collections of military art and history in the world – the tomb of the Emperor Napoléon is located here and in my experience this is a visit that works for all generations, young and old. The Musée d’Orsay houses an astounding collection of painting and sculpture, ranging from the mid-19th century through the early 20th century and includes a vast array of Impressionistic work. If you love sculpture, the Rodin museum (and its famous Penseur) are located just beside the Invalides – the gardens are lovely on a sunny day.

detail shot of the golden dome of the invalides

Shopping is a must in the 7th – don’t miss Au Bain Marie (tablescape paradise!) or Le Bon Marché, which offers a classic department store experience. One of my favourite shops in the 7th is the Fragonard perfumerie – pop in to stock up on hostess gifts and to breathe in that heavenly scent! And there’s always clothes shopping on the Boulevard Saint Germain…

art deco building in the 7th arrondissement

close up of art deco doorway, with angel above and intricate wooden door

There are, of course, endless places to stop and enjoy a pause in Paris, but I especially love Le Café de l’Esplanade. Designed by Jacques Garcia, this charming café is great place for lunch and a wonderful place to sit and have coffee – plus, happy days, they have a voiturier service so you don’t have to waste precious coffee drinking time in parking!

exterior shot of the cafe de l'esplanade in the 7th

For other options, consider Chez l’Ami Jean – a fast-paced and highly lauded bistro on the Rue Malar, or Le Jules Verne, a hyper chic restaurant famously located on the second level of the Eiffel tower.

table at the restaurant 'le jules verne' in the eiffel tower

When staying in the 7th, you can go high-brow like the residents of old at the Hotel 7 Eiffel, which is situated within easy walking distance from both the Invalides and the Eiffel tower, and boasts a comfortable yet modernly chic interior. For something a little more cosy,  check out the boutique charm at the hotel Le Petit Chomel.

sitting room at le petit chomel with mismatched chairs and large mirror

green bedroom at le petit chomel

Voilà, a brief look at the elegant 7th arrondissement….

I hope that you are enjoying your weekend.

If you missed them, here are my step-by-steps around the other arrondissements so far:

1st arrondissement2nd arrondissement; 3rd arrondissement;   4th  arrondissement;            5th arrondissement6th arrondissement 7th arrondissement

9 comments

Karena November 1, 2014 - 3:57 pm

Oh Sharon I am looking forward to Paris soon and your tips are truly invaluable!

xoxo
Karena
The Arts by Karena

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Lindy November 1, 2014 - 4:16 pm

I enjoyed every word every photograph….
Thank you so much!
A feast for the eyes and food for the soul.

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Vicky from Athens November 1, 2014 - 8:17 pm

Sharon – I appreciate so much for your “step by step” guides. I’m copying them – I hope my sister and I will be able to re-visit Paris in the Spring and these are so helpful!
Thank you!!

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Elizabeth (Eiffel Tells) November 2, 2014 - 12:25 am

I always look forward to the next Paris arrondissement guide. There is so much too see and do that having an insiders tips helps to shortcut our decision making process. Despite the times we have spend in Paris, I have found there there is always something to discover from your guides. I am keeping them for future reference. Bon weekend

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Anna Smith November 2, 2014 - 1:58 am

Oh, simply wonderful! Thank you
Anna

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Emm November 2, 2014 - 2:43 pm

This is such a nice series, it gives a real sense of place. Thank you.

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barbara November 2, 2014 - 6:45 pm

so glad to hear someone praise Café de LËsplanade. We absolutely had a most wonderful lunch there last visit and can’t wait to go back for dinner. We found it walking by and since it was noon elected to stop. Can’t say enough about how absolutely perfect the food and srevice were.

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Tom Craig March 1, 2015 - 5:58 pm

Dear Ms.
I am contacting about a photo that I found on your website of a Paris restaurant, Jules Verne, (3rd from bottom) that to my knowledge is being used without the proper license. If you cannot prove that you have bought a license for its use then we will issue you one with a penalty. Please get back to us as soon as possible to settle this matter

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Fred Mike March 1, 2024 - 10:15 am

My recent stay at the 7th arrondissement was nothing short of magical. The boutique charm of hotel le petit chomel added a cozy touch to my Parisian experience.
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