Timeline
08:18
Eglise Saint Nicolas du Chardonnet
Arrive at the square surrounding Eglise Saint Nicolas du Chardonnet. The church is a striking, controversial presence, occupied by the Society of Saint Pius X since 1977. Find a quiet spot on the perimeter to watch the sky lighten.
08:38
Eglise Saint Nicolas du Chardonnet
Watch the sunrise. On 15 January the sun sets toward the WSW, but the early morning light will cast a soft glow on the church facade before the city wakes up fully.
09:18
Walk seven minutes to Shakespeare and Co. This eccentric bookshop, established in 1951, is open from 12:00. Arriving just before opening gives you a chance to browse the rambling floors of new and second-hand books in the quiet morning light. Note: Cash only.
Local tip
The church is a de facto headquarters for a traditionalist group that has ignored eviction orders. Respect the space and the people nearby.
Check before you go
- Shakespeare and Co. opens at 12:00. If you arrive before this time, you will need to wait outside or find another spot.
Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Paris (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).