Sandra Sigman, the renowned florist and author of “French Blooms,” a book that explores the unique French style of flower arrangement, highly recommends this floral-focused stroll in Paris. Spanning just under three miles, the route takes you through the picturesque gardens, green spaces, and flower shops of the 6th and 7th arrondissements.
According to Sigman, “I am enamored by the French approach to gardens. Despite their formal design, people still find a way to relax and appreciate their beauty.”
To begin the journey, start at Champ de Mars, the park surrounding the iconic Eiffel Tower, where you’ll be greeted by vibrant blooms. Arriving here early will allow you to avoid the crowds. From there, head southeast on Rue Saint-Dominique until you reach Boulangerie Laurent B, a delightful bakery known for its charming vintage vibe. Don’t miss out on their crowd-pleasing canelé and pain au chocolat.
Continuing along Rue Saint-Dominique, you’ll come across the magnificent Esplanade des Invalides, which, though primarily a park, offers a mesmerizing scenic walk surrounded by museums and monuments. Take some time to explore the Musée de L’Armée and Napoleon’s tomb.
As you leave Esplanade des Invalides, head east on Rue Saint-Dominique until you reach Rue de Bellechasse. Situated on the corner is Adriane M. Fleuriste, a floral wonderland with an expansive outdoor display. As Sigman describes it, “The beauty of the flowers spills out of the shop.”
A lovely five-minute walk awaits you from here. Proceed southeast on Rue Saint-Dominique until you reach Blvd. Saint-Germain, then veer off onto Blvd. Raspail and continue until you reach Rue du Bac. Here, you’ll find 69 bac, a charming flower shop that perfectly complements its address. Look for the flowers peeking out of the building and follow them down the corridor to the entrance of the shop.
Just a block away, don’t forget to visit Barthélemy, one of the most delightful cheese shops in the neighborhood. For a satisfying lunch, try Le Café Pierre Hermé next door. Sit in their courtyard and enjoy a croque monsieur, a cup of tea, and a salted caramel macaron, as suggested by Sigman.
After lunch, it’s time for some shopping. Make your way back to Rue de Bac, where within a couple of blocks, you’ll encounter La Maison du Bac. This shop is a treasure trove of antique and new vessels perfect for flower arranging, adding a touch of flair to your floral design.
Continue along Rue de Bac until you reach Rue de Babylone. On your right, you’ll pass Square Boucicaut, a charming city park with a carousel. From here, the route to the next stop is less than a mile but involves a series of turns. Follow the path from Rue de Babylone to Rue de Sèvres, then Rue du Four, Rue de Rennes, and Rue de l’Abbaye until you reach Rue de Furstemberg and the petite floral shop Oz Garden. This shop offers a carefully curated selection of unique flowers and plants, and their organically styled bouquets will make you feel like the flowers were freshly picked from the garden.
The delightful square surrounding Oz Garden is filled with narrow, tucked-away streets housing small independent shops, including the fragrant spice shop Compagnie Française. From there, take Rue de Seine to Rue de Tournon, a short 10-minute walk, and arrive at Astier de Villatte, a meticulously curated shop of antiques and tableware. Here, you’ll find beautifully crafted porcelain pieces that make unconventional vases for your floral arrangements. Take a moment to explore the displays of plates, vases, tureens, and more that stretch from floor to ceiling.
Astier de Villatte faces the grand Palais du Luxembourg, providing the perfect segue to a leisurely stroll through Jardin de Luxembourg. This classic Parisian park exudes a royal ambiance, with precisely trimmed hedges, symmetrical arrangements of unique flowers, and impressive potted urns. You’ll encounter friends picnicking, couples holding hands, and children joyfully navigating toy sailboats in the duck pond. The gardens, like the palace itself, were designed in the 1610s for Queen Marie de’ Médicis and were inspired by the Palazzo Pitti in Florence.
The total distance of this stroll is approximately 2.95 miles, and the difficulty level is easy, perfect for all ages. Families with children will particularly enjoy the parks and gardens along the way, although the shops have a more adult focus. The estimated time for the walk can range from two hours to almost five hours, accounting for stops to shop and enjoy a meal.
Indulge in this floral-centered adventure and immerse yourself in the beauty of Parisian gardens, elegant flower shops, and charming boutiques.
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