We had originally planned to stay in an Airbnb on Ile Saint Louis but after watching the customer reviews for that particular apartment get decreasingly negative, we opted out and got another place in a different arrondissement. Strolling the idyllic streets on Ile Saint-Louis on our Girls Trip 2023, we wished we had been able to stay there. With the stylish cafes and shops and very little surface traffic, it really is an island oasis within bustling urban Paris.

Consisting of 27 acres, it is one of two natural islands in the Seine River. The other natural island is the Ile de la Cite where Notre Dame is located. Ile Saint-Louis is connected to the rest of Paris by four bridges to both banks of the river and to the Ile de la Cite. The island is located within the 4th arrondissement. With only a population of 4,000+, this island is supposedly the costliest real estate in Paris.

We enjoyed dinner at  SORZA, Paris – Ile de la Cite / Ile Saint-Louis – Menu, Prices, Restaurant Reviews & Reservations – Tripadvisor. The food was outstanding. Make a reservation in advance as it is a tiny place and very popular. My salmon risotto was to die for! From the salad to the entrée to dessert, we were in heaven!

Another day we came back to the island to sample the “best ice cream in Paris” at the Tea Room – Berthillon. You can wait in line for ice cream, but we lucked into a table in their cute tearoom so that we could enjoy ice cream sundaes. After our sweet break, we wandered the streets enjoying the architecture and interesting shops and markets.

We had great luck shopping at the boutiques on the island. Becky was able to find a lovely top and I got Thom the real Parisian scarf that he had wanted. One of my favorite jewelry lines, Sobral Design, has a brand store at 79, Rue Saint-Louis en lÎle on the island, so I was able to stock up on several fall pieces for my collection.

Next time I visit Paris, I think we will stay at Hotel Saint Louis en Isle – Hotel Saint Louis Paris (saintlouisenlisle.com). We were on our way to dinner and saw this hotel. Ducking in to check it out, the manager told us about his charming hotel and said he would be waiting for our return. They have a complimentary private shuttle from the airport/train for stays of 5 nights or more. Full of Parisian charm, experiencing Ile Saint Louis is a must do when you visit Paris. Enjoy the journey!