The 14th Arrondissement of Paris: What To Expect

Named “Arrondissement de l'Observatoire,” the 14th arrondissement of Paris really is quite the standout. Though all of the French capital's districts are special in their own right, this particular area has something extra. It's home to the Montparnasse district, one of the central neighborhoods in Paris as well as among its most historic. Here, French history and heritage reign supreme, but that doesn't mean that the modern world is lost here either. All in all, the 14th arrondissement offers a beautiful balance between the old and new, the past and present, the nostalgic and the now. Sounds pretty interesting, doesn't it?

A Tower to Rival Eiffel

Though there's no doubt that the Eiffel Tower in the 7th arrondissement is the most famous monument in Paris, Tour Montparnasse is not to be overlooked that easily. For one thing, it stands out with its skyscraper-like aesthetic. In any other major city, this structure will blend in with all the others. But in the French capital, known for its ornate Haussmann buildings and Baroque architecture, its modern design definitely sticks out. It's also here where you'll find the city's highest restaurant, Le Ciel de Paris. Imagine getting to eat way up in the sky! It gives a whole new meaning to haute cuisine! Source: Wikimedia Commons

The Best Observatory in Paris

If you're wondering where the 14th arrondissement got its “Arrondissement de l'Observatoire” monicker, it's because it's home to the Paris Observatory. Though there are many of its kind all throughout the different neighborhoods in Paris, the one on Avenue de l'Observatoire is the oldest, most historic, and the most central to French research. It's here where scientists study the world beyond Earth, getting a front-row seat into what happens in the universe. And yes, tourists can also go inside sometimes to see the stars themselves. It's an experience you won't want to miss! Source: Wikimedia Commons/ Pine

The Bustling Boulevard du Montparnasse

Boulevard du Montparnasse is perhaps the pièce de résistance of both the Montparnasse district and of the entire 14th arrondissement of Paris. Home to the cafe society of the 1920s, it became one of the chicest streets in Paris at the time. Artists, intellectuals, and socialites alike would gather here, hang out in its most charming cafes, and party till the very next day. Nowadays, even though the scene here isn't like that anymore, you can still feel the spirit of the early 20th century seeping through its centuries and decades-old hotspots that have remained on Boulevard du Montparnasse to this day. Source: Wikimedia Commons/ fightlog

A Treasure Trove of Charming Cafes

Speaking of charming cafes, the 14th Arrondissement has a treasure trove of them. As already mentioned, Boulevard Montparnasse was where the 1920s cafe society reigned supreme. It was a common occurrence to see Picasso and Hemingway dine at Le Dôme Cafe. Jean Cocteau and Jean-Paul Sartre, on the other hand, would frequent La Rotonde every once and a while. And the 'Roaring Twenties' in Paris wouldn't have been what it was if not for the electric soirees held at La Coupole! These were just some of the most popular hotspots at the time and it's a good thing that they're still around today! Source: Wikimedia Commons

Myriad of Museums

If you thought the 1st arrondissement was the only district with the worthwhile museum (home of the Louvre), think again! The 14th arrondissement offers its own treasure trove of magnificent museums and cool art galleries. Right off the bat, there's Fondation Cartier Pour l'Art Contemporain, established by the world-famous French jewelry brand. This gallery displays contemporary works of art that are as stunning as Cartier's own signature pieces. The Giacometti Institute, on the other hand, takes a more intellectual approach to show off art. Here, you get a better understanding of the artistic process. Source: Wikimedia Commons

Home to the Paris Catacombs

You'll find what is perhaps the most unique tourist attraction in Paris in the 14th arrondissement: the Paris Catacombs. As a result of the city's cemeteries getting filled up in the 17th century, the French capital decided to build this 2,000-acre underground labyrinth and buried the rest of the remains there. But instead of going with the more traditional graveyard approach, they lined the walls with the skeletal remains instead. Undoubtedly creepy and possibly even a little haunted, only the brave would ever dare to walk through this startling site. Source: Wikimedia Commons

One of The Best Parks in Paris

Though it only has 37 acres, there's no doubt that Parc Montsouris is one of the best parks in Paris. Located in the 14th arrondissement, it's a fresh, clean, and open green space where people can enjoy some fun under the sun. Sure, it may not be as beautiful as Jardin de Tuileries or as otherworldly as Parc Monceau, but it's definitely just as, if not more delightful! Here, you can just relax, perhaps hold a picnic, play games with loved ones, and just enjoy life. It's the perfect escape when life in the bustling French capital gets a bit too much. Source: Wikimedia Commons. Mbzt

The 14th arrondissement of Paris has a lot more to offer than you think. Though it has a lot of history and heritage to show, there are various things in this area that are pretty unique. You'll find it unlike any other arrondissement out there.