Buying an apartment in Paris’s 6th arrondissement
At the heart of Paris’s Left Bank, the 6th arrondissement offers an ideal setting for purchasing an apartment. One of the oldest districts in the capital, it captivates with a rich history visible on every corner, the prestige of its iconic landmarks, and a property market that shows no sign of slowing down. At a time when sought-after addresses are more desirable than ever, Maison Kyka opens the doors to what may well be the most quintessentially Parisian of all arrondissements.
A district molded by centuries past
Frequently featured in literature and film—fueling both fantasies and clichés—the 6th arrondissement continues to enchant those who wander its cobbled streets. Its signature bohemian-chic spirit is just one of many reasons it remains a top choice for buyers seeking a peaceful, residential atmosphere without giving up the intense energy of Parisian life. Bordered by the Seine to the north and Boulevard Montparnasse to the south, it is home to just over 40,000 residents within a compact 2.18 sq. km. A modest surface area, perhaps, but one that boasts an extraordinary concentration of cultural and architectural heritage.
The history of the 6th arrondissement begins in Antiquity. While no above-ground remains of Gallo-Roman Lutetia have survived—unlike in parts of the neighboring 5th arrondissement—buried traces of dwellings and Roman roads, especially near today’s Rue de Vaugirard, bear witness to a millennia-old past that hinted at the area’s future prestige. In the 6th, people think, create, and philosophize—and have done so for centuries. Medical and fine arts students cross paths with actors from the Odéon Theatre and members of the Académie Française, all within a maze of streets that narrow as they draw closer to the river.
Apartment hunting in the 6th arrondissement can be challenging, with demand consistently high. That’s why Maison Kyka’s property acquisition managers guide you according to your criteria—and help you find that rare gem.
The Saint-Germain-des-Prés district
First stop near Boulevard Saint-Germain, one of the main arteries running east to west through the 6th arrondissement. Here, the neighborhood pulses with life—elegant shops, small businesses, and crowded terraces all bustling beneath the watchful eye of the old Saint-Germain-des-Prés church tower. This church is the last surviving part of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, founded in the mid-6th century, which gave its name to the neighborhood we know today. This area of the 6th arrondissement is especially beloved by both tourists and locals, thanks to landmarks like Les Deux Magots, where the likes of Ernest Hemingway and Fernand Léger once sat. It’s a true symbol of a district that lives to the rhythm of cultural happenings and the many art galleries lining the streets of Seine, Beaux-Arts, Mazarine, and Bonaparte.
The Monnaie district
Further east, along the Seine and facing the Île de la Cité, lies the Monnaie district. Quieter and more discreet, its streets are less crowded and the atmosphere calm. You are in the historic heart of the capital, as shown by the 17th- and 18th-century buildings and grand townhouses. Book lovers and collectors will find this area made for them. The long-standing presence of printers, publishers, and booksellers makes it the perfect place to discover rare editions or browse the many secondhand booksellers along the Seine’s quays. But the neighborhood’s name comes from a different craft: coin-making. Head to the Quai de Conti to find the Hôtel de la Monnaie, home since the 18th century to the oldest French institution still operating—the Paris Mint, founded in 864.
The Odéon district
Heading southeast in the 6th arrondissement, you reach the Odéon district. Here, the atmosphere is a blend of the lively buzz around Place Henri Mondor, where restaurant tables spill onto the sidewalks, and the calm, reassuring quiet of the Luxembourg Garden nearby. The “Luco,” as Parisians affectionately call it, is a popular spot for athletes—whether joggers or tennis fans—students from nearby universities, and of course, visitors strolling to admire the Médicis Fountain and its remarkable collection of plants. Living in this essential neighborhood also means frequenting the Odéon National Theatre, which offers a full program year-round, mixing classic plays with brand-new contemporary works. One thing is certain: entertainment fills every corner of the Odéon district.
The Notre-Dame-des-Champs district
More family-oriented and upscale, the Notre-Dame-des-Champs district stretches between Boulevard Montparnasse and the streets of Sèvres, Bonaparte, and d’Assas. Quieter but just as sought-after for real estate, it is home to several renowned private schools, including the École Alsacienne. Strolling along Rue de Rennes, you’ll often stop at L’Arlequin, an art-house cinema whose large auditorium, decorated with diamond patterns, pays tribute to the famous Commedia dell’Arte character. A little further up, you can’t miss the Félix Potin building at the corner of Rue Blaise-Desgoff. Built in 1904 by Paul Auscher in Art Nouveau style, this historic structure features a turret topped with a campanile shaped like a champagne cork. Renovated in 2017, it remains the last reminder on the Left Bank of the old Félix Potin retail brand founded in the 19th century.
To fully enjoy the neighborhood’s life, head there on Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings, when several markets take place on the central median of Boulevard Raspail, between Rue du Cherche-Midi and Rue de Rennes.
And if you’re still torn between the old-world charm of the Monnaie neighborhood and the lively buzz of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, the property acquisition managers at Maison Kyka are ready to share their knowledge of the 6th arrondissement and assist you in finding your perfect apartment.
Why buy in the 6th arrondissement?
A sought-after area known for its value and exceptional quality of life
The 6th arrondissement is one of the least densely populated neighborhoods in the city. Although its population swells dramatically during the day due to tourism and economic activity, residents enjoy a peaceful environment throughout the year. The presence of many higher education institutions, such as Panthéon-Assas and the École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales, helps rejuvenate a population that is otherwise mostly older, with students making up over 15%. This is an important point to consider if you’re thinking of buying an apartment as a rental investment.
The buildings of the 6th arrondissement showcase a rich architectural diversity, reflecting its history and urban development. Classical-style buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries can be found in the Odéon and Monnaie districts. These are especially recognizable by their simple stone facades, balanced lines, and pediments. Haussmannian architecture is also prevalent, particularly in more open areas like Boulevard Saint-Michel. Here and there, you’ll find examples of Art Deco, Art Nouveau, and modern architecture, thoughtfully integrated among the older buildings.
The housing market in the 6th arrondissement is dominated by large apartments, with around 30% consisting of four rooms or more. These figures reflect the dual nature of the area, which combines spacious homes with smaller units aimed at students.
The 6th arrondissement, especially around Boulevard Saint-Germain and along the Seine, is a prime destination for second homes, owned largely by residents living abroad.
Buying an apartment in the 6th arrondissement requires a substantial budget, reflecting prices per square meter that are well above the Parisian average. You can generally expect to pay around €14,945/sq. m. This trend is driven upward by the much higher prices in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood, where the median price exceeds €16,000/sq. m. As you move south, between the Saint-Placide metro station and Rue du Cherche-Midi, the median price decreases, stabilizing around €13,615/sq. m. Investing here is ambitious but highly secure, given the increasing value of this highly sought-after area. This trend is not unique to the 6th arrondissement but can also be seen in other upscale neighborhoods like the 1st and 8th arrondissements, where the real estate market has largely weathered the crisis.
Buying in the 9th: which lifestyle is it best for?
At Maison Kyka, we strongly recommend investing in property in the 6th arrondissement. It’s certainly a significant investment, but one that comes with great added value—especially when a quality renovation follows the purchase. Take Nicolas, for example, who, with Maison Kyka’s support, transformed a 16 m² studio into a stylish and comfortable haven in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Buyers looking to resell or invest in rental property, like Nicolas, will find plenty to love in the 6th arrondissement. It’s also a smart choice for those seeking a central pied-à-terre close to many shops and upscale boutiques. With Montparnasse Station on its southern border, the 6th arrondissement is perfect for lovers of Parisian life—whether passing through or planning to settle down more permanently. Families with children will appreciate the spacious apartments in the Notre-Dame-des-Champs area and along the Luxembourg Garden. This quieter setting, combined with nearby schools, offers a reassuring neighborhood atmosphere where everything is within walking distance.
It’s worth noting, however, that the 6th arrondissement is served by only three metro lines—a limited network that is nonetheless offset by a dense bus system and a central location offering easy access to both the Right Bank and the very heart of Paris. A lively and well-frequented neighborhood, it draws many tourists during the day, which can bring occasional noise and a bit of bustle. As night falls, calm gradually returns, and those in search of a livelier nightlife will likely want to head to neighboring districts—or even cross the Seine.
In the end, the 6th arrondissement captivates with its elegance, its distinctive way of life, and its rich heritage. A prestigious and vibrant neighborhood, where every street tells the story of Paris—and perhaps soon, yours too, with the personalized guidance of Maison Kyka.
Maison Kyka’s favorite local spots in the 6th arrondissement
Maison Kyka takes you on a tour of the 6th arrondissement in seven stops—enough to turn the question “Why buy an apartment in this neighborhood?” into “Why didn’t I buy one sooner?”
1. First stop: Rue Bonaparte, at Simrane. In this home linen, clothing, and decor boutique, your eyes wander across the many hand-printed Indian textiles that have built its reputation since 1970. A tribute to travel, craftsmanship, and color, Simrane is the perfect place to find inspiration and reinvent your interior with style.
2. A hub of artistic energy, the 6th arrondissement is home to many galleries, including Amélie du Chalard’s, located on Rue Séguier just steps from the Seine. Sculptures, paintings, photographs, and other works are displayed in a minimalist space designed for quiet contemplation. Regular exhibitions open the doors to art lovers and collectors from around the world.
3. La Crèmerie, on Rue des Quatre Vents, is a wine bar and restaurant brimming with French charm, where seasonal cuisine is both simple and delicious. With its few wooden tables and excellent wine selection, it captures the spirit of true epicureanism in its most authentic form.
4. The Giacometti Foundation, housed in an Art Deco townhouse on Rue Victor-Schoelcher, offers an intimate glimpse into the artist’s world. Alongside his iconic sculptures, visitors can explore his archives, drawings, and personal belongings—a rare and precious visit in a space that is part museum, part studio.
5. In the heart of the Odéon district lies a hidden gem for cinema lovers. Christine Cinéma Club, on Rue Christine, offers a selection of auteur films and restored classics, all in a cozy, confidential setting. A must for cinephiles seeking quality screenings and new discoveries.
6. When it comes to shopping, the 6th arrondissement is a true destination. A quick stop on Rue de Tournon at La Veste is almost a must. The boutique’s joyful, colorful, and bold decor mirrors the clothes on display. Founded by Spanish duo Maria de la Orden and Blanca Miró, the brand blends vintage flair with eclecticism, offering handmade pieces crafted in Spain.
7. Just steps from Café de Flore, L’Écume des Pages is one of the 6th arrondissement’s iconic independent bookstores. Open until midnight, it offers a refined selection of contemporary fiction, classics, and essays. With its cozy atmosphere and overflowing shelves, it’s a favorite among passionate readers looking for their next nightstand book—or simply a quiet moment in Paris’s most literary neighborhood.
Life is beautiful in the 6th arrondissement—what if now was the perfect time to settle in, with the expert guidance of Maison Kyka?