At the very heart of Paris in the 4th arrondissement, you can admire a calm and peaceful neighbourhood with a village atmosphere: the Island of St Louis (Ile Saint-Louis). Along with its neighbouring island, the Island of the City (Ile de la Cité), it's one of the two natural islands in the Seine in Paris. It is named after King Louis IX, also known as St Louis, who used to come and pray there, as legend has it.
The residential district of the Island of St Louis provides built heritage enthusiasts with a chance to admire some beautiful 17th-century mansions, such as the Lambert Mansion and the Lauzun Mansion, which were both built by the architect Louis Le Vau, or the Chenizot Mansion.
On a charming walk along the quays and streets, as well as enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the place, you can see the Baroque-style Church of Saint-Louis-en-l'Île. And from the Quai d'Orléans, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the Seine and the chevet of the famous Cathedral of Notre-Dame, which stands not far from there on the Island of the City.
Although the Metro doesn't go there, the Ile Saint-Louis can be reached on foot or by bike along one of the five bridges that connect it to the rest of the city. The nearest Metro stations are those of Pont Marie and Sully-Morland, both located on the Seine's right bank.
