Quai des Grands-Augustins

The Quai des Grands-Augustins is a waterfront path along the Seine in the 6th arrondissement, roughly 350 meters long and 16 meters wide. The walkway connects two major bridges and constantly offers views of Notre-Dame Cathedral and other historic buildings across the river.

King Philip ordered this riverbank development in 1389 to prevent flooding, making it the first of its kind in Paris. The project established the foundation for how the city would expand along the Seine in the centuries to come.

The name comes from a nearby Augustinian monastery that once defined this neighborhood's character. Today people use this riverbank path to walk and sit while watching the Seine flow past the historic buildings.

The path is wide and flat, good for walking at any time of year, with shaded spots under trees nearby. You can easily reach restaurants, cafes, and bookshops from here and are well connected to central Paris subway and streetcar stations.

A well-known restaurant here served as a gathering place for writers and thinkers, including figures like Victor Hugo who exchanged ideas at its tables. The artistic and intellectual scene of Paris made this spot a cultural hub that drew authors and artists seeking inspiration and conversation.

Location: 6th arrondissement of Paris

Location: Quartier de la Monnaie

Length: 354 m

Width: 16 m

Part of: road network of Paris

Shares border with: place Saint-Michel, quai de Conti, quai Saint-Michel, rue Dauphine, rue de Nevers, rue des Grands-Augustins, rue Gît-le-Cœur, rue Séguier, Pont Neuf, pont Saint-Michel

GPS coordinates: 48.85480,2.34218

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:03