Where Did Sartre Hang Out in Paris?

By Michael Ferguson

Paris, the city of lights, has been a hub of intellectual and artistic activity for centuries. And among the many famous personalities that have called Paris their home, one that stands out is Jean-Paul Sartre.

The French philosopher, playwright, and novelist was a prominent figure in the existentialist movement and his work has had a profound impact on modern philosophy. So, let’s explore some of the places where Sartre hung out in Paris.

Café de Flore

One of the most famous cafés in Paris, Café de Flore was a regular haunt of Sartre. Located in the Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood on the left bank of the Seine River, this café was a popular meeting place for intellectuals and artists in the 20th century.

Sartre often visited this café with his partner Simone de Beauvoir to discuss philosophy and literature over coffee and croissants. Today, Café de Flore still retains its old-world charm and is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Parisian history.

Les Deux Magots

Another café located in Saint-Germain-des-Prés that Sartre frequented was Les Deux Magots. This café has been around since 1885 and has been associated with many famous personalities over the years including Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso, and James Joyce.

Sartre often visited this café to write and work on his manuscripts. The café has an outdoor seating area that offers great views of Place Saint-Germain-des-Prés.

Boulevard Saint-Germain

Apart from cafés, Boulevard Saint-Germain was another favorite spot of Sartre’s. This boulevard stretches from the Latin Quarter to the Pont de Sully bridge and is lined with bookstores, art galleries, and cafés.

Sartre was known to frequent the bookstores in this area and spent countless hours browsing through the books. Today, Boulevard Saint-Germain is still a great place to explore Parisian culture and is home to many iconic landmarks such as the Saint-Sulpice church and the Panthéon.

The Left Bank

Sartre lived on the Left Bank of the Seine River for most of his life, and this area had a significant influence on his work. The Left Bank was a hub of intellectual activity in Paris in the 20th century, and many famous writers, artists, and philosophers called this area their home. Sartre often took long walks along the Seine River to clear his mind and find inspiration for his writing.

Conclusion

Jean-Paul Sartre was one of the most influential philosophers of the 20th century, and his work has had a profound impact on modern philosophy. Exploring some of the places where he hung out in Paris gives us a glimpse into his life and work.

From cafés to bookstores to boulevards, Paris has many places that are associated with Sartre’s legacy. So, if you’re ever in Paris, don’t miss out on these iconic spots!