A Look at Paris Doors

Beautiful Paris architecture includes not only the Haussmann-style buildings, the iconic Eiffel Tower, and the graceful bridges across the Seine but also the Paris doors. Wandering the streets of this venerable city, you walk past so many painted doors. They come in a variety of styles of doors, and the aged and marked ones have a special character to them. In a city known for it’s clean, white architecture, the doors add a pop of color. Most intriguing to think about is that these are portals into the places where Parisians live and work.  

Paris Doors in the Latin Quarter

My favorite area of Paris is the Latin Quarter. On the left bank of the Seine, the 5th arrondissement of the city is a mix of old and new. The Paris Pantheon is here to honor the history of the city, and at the same time modern families call this home and walk their children to school. Sidewalk cafes abound. And the Paris doors here catch your eye.

The Sorbonne University opened its doors here in the 12th century and gave this area its name. Latin was spoken at universities in those days, so Latin was the language heard in the neighborhood. Here are some views from my walks up and down the street where the school takes up a long block.

Paris Doors in the 7th Arrondissement

After staying in the Latin Quarter we decided to change it up and explore a new neighborhood as our base. We decided to stay in the 7th arrondissement, near the Rodin Museum and the Invalides where Napoleon is buried. The Eiffel Tower decorates the distant view from here. It’s a central location to visit these sites plus so many others. We walked “home” from the Louvre one day and it wasn’t too far at all. Here’s a collection of some of the doors you can see in this area—so varied yet each opening to possibilities and personalities and Paris life. When lights shine out onto the street, they seem to be beckoning you to come inside. And reflections can be fun.

As in all parts of Paris, some of the doors here are shiny clean and fancy and some are worn with hard knocks.

Memorials Decorate the Doors of Paris

Paris being so rich in history, some of the doors of speak of battles and heroes. Plaques of remembrance tell what happened near these Paris doors.As you stroll, keep an eye out for these tributes.

Favorite Hotels in These Areas of Paris

An abundance of accommodations can be found in both the Latin Quarter and the 7th arrondissment. Here are my favorites in each.

Of the different places I’ve stayed in the Latin Quarter, the stately Hotel Grands Hommes tops my list. It is next to the Pantheon and rooms offer views of this Paris treasure. Here is what greeted us at sunrise from our room at this hotel.

In the 7th arrondissement, we stayed at the Hotel Varenne for a very reasonable price. It’s elegant and cozy and includes a full breakfast. You enter through a peaceful courtyard garden. I would highly recommend this hotel!

FOR MORE OF PARIS, HEAD TO THESE POSTS!

Tips for Your First Trip to Paris

Reasons to Visit the Eiffel Tower

Climbing Up Into the Eiffel Tower

Exploring the Rodin Museum

5 Reasons to Visit Luxembourg Gardens

Paris Gardens to Enjoy

The D’Orsay Museum in Paris

A Walk in the Latin Quarter

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