Private van transfer from booksellers from the Seine wharf to Orly airport

History of booksellers from the Seine wharf in Paris

Stretching over three kilometers along the Seine, the booksellers from the Right Bank from Pont Marie to the Quai du Louvre and on the Left Bank from Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire have become a cultural staple. Known as open-air supermarkets for books, these vendors have occupied these spots for centuries. Today, around 240 booksellers offer over 300,000 books to literature enthusiasts.

400,000 books that spin along the Seine

The sixteenth century marked the beginning of the book dealers in Paris. Initially, they carried their goods in wooden or wicker boxes equipped with straps, offering their wares to passers-by along the Seine. Some laid out their books on wooden trestles or simply on canvases spread on the ground. As these itinerant booksellers saw success, more joined, establishing their stalls along the riverbank. However, neither the authorities nor established booksellers viewed the increasing number of informal vendors favorably. The former were concerned about the lack of tax payments and the latter about competition.

At a time when many publications were banned, the authorities struggled to control what was sold by these vendors, allowing a certain “freedom” that attracted rare book collectors. For nearly three centuries, the authorities attempted to regulate the area, trying to relocate the market. Yet, the number of booksellers and the attraction of their offerings only grew, making the site a popular destination for visitors from all walks of life. Ultimately, the authorities were compelled to formalize the activity, standardizing the stalls and assigning fixed locations to each merchant, while imposing an annual fee.

Listed as cultural heritage

Despite being persecuted and threatened with eviction by various authorities over the years, the booksellers were not officially accepted until the early twentieth century. The outbreak of the World Wars further complicated their situation. In 1900, there were 200 booksellers, but despite the wars, they persevered, continuing their trade through difficult times. Over the years, regulations evolved, and booksellers gained the right to leave their stalls on-site overnight. Now regarded almost as part of Parisian legend, the booksellers were recognized as World Heritage by UNESCO in 1991.

Acknowledging the draw these booksellers have for tourists and old book lovers, the French authorities have begun to promote this influx by organizing cultural events and other visitor attractions. Opening at 11 am on several days a week, the booksellers offer more than 300,000 ancient books not typically found in bookstores, along with various antiques such as old coins, stamps, and prints. The profession of bookselling requires a deep knowledge of literature, and many vendors have passed their stalls down from generation to generation. Discover the enduring charm of this tradition by exploring the best Paris airport shuttle service reviews to plan your visit.

Private car transfer between the Hotel Les Bulles de Paris and Orly Airport

Nestled in the heart of the 5th district, Hotel Les Bulles de Paris is uniquely dedicated to the world of Champagne. Located in the vibrant Latin Quarter, this hotel offers rooms equipped with LCD TVs, minibars, and private bathrooms. Guests can choose from forty-four uniquely themed rooms spread across six floors, each celebrating different facets of champagne and culture such as the arts, love, or women’s achievements, each enhanced by distinctive color schemes.

Guests are welcomed with a complimentary bottle of champagne and can indulge in a luxurious champagne bath. The hotel’s champagne bar features an extensive selection of wines and champagnes from regions like the Côte des Blancs, Montagne de Reims, Marne Valley, and Côte des Bars. For relaxation, the hotel’s spa offers a sauna, steam room, and treatment room. For ease of access to and from the airport, consider our reliable car transfer service.

Private van transport between the Hotel Belloy St Germain and Roissy Charles de Gaulle Airport

Situated in the iconic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Hotel Belloy St Germain combines elegant four-star accommodation with a contemporary decor infused with a literary and artistic ambiance. Each of the fifty serene rooms is soundproofed, air-conditioned, and equipped with flat-screen satellite TVs, free Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making facilities, and ensuite bathrooms. The hotel’s restaurant offers an array of French culinary delights and a daily continental breakfast. Guests can also enjoy a diverse menu of champagnes and cocktails in a private setting. Nearby attractions include Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre, Pont des Arts, Pantheon, Orsay Museum, and the scenic banks of the Seine and its historical publishing houses. Planning a trip to or from the airport? Consider our private van transport services.

Pick up from the Seine wharf in Paris to Orly airport

Traveling from the Seine wharf to Orly airport covers a distance of 15.5 kilometers, providing a direct and serene route compared to the longer distances to Roissy Charles de Gaulle and Beauvais airports. When choosing your mode of transportation from Charles de Gaulle (CDG) to a Paris hotel, consider factors such as cost, convenience, luggage, and comfort. Taxis, while offering direct routes, can be pricey and affected by traffic. Public transport like the RER and metro, though cost-effective, may be cumbersome with heavy luggage. Many travelers find that private shuttles offer a balanced solution. Shuttle services from CDG provide direct, stress-free transfers without the high costs associated with taxis, and are more comfortable than public transport, especially after a long flight. For similar convenience from other parts of Paris, consider our private van service to Orly. Additionally, explore transfers to Parisian attractions for a comprehensive travel solution.