S. Germain des Pres, in the 6th arrondisement, is known as the intellectual-chic neighbourhood of Paris. As such it has many cafs and brassieries which opened in the 1950s. There are many bars to choose from in the narrow streets, and bar-hopping is a much practiced sport in the summer months.
The streets are peaceful and picturesque and besides the cafs and brasseries, there are also many good restaurants. The really chic apartments are on Boulevard S. Germain. There are many old cinemas and bars towards the Odon. There is a village atmosphere and the supermarkets, grocery shops and flower shops all contribute to this small-town identity. Historic bars like Le Procope also give the neighbourhood a feeling of elegance. Non-food stores are elegant and very expensive. There are good metro connections and there is abundant pay-parking.