Best Things To See And Do In Paris 12th Arrondissement

The primarily residential 12th arrondissement may not figure on many “must-see” lists in Paris, but it certainly has a lot to offer. From magnificent public parks to centuries’ old markets, read on to discover our top 8 ways to experience la vie parisienne in the 12th arrondissement.

Stroll Along the Promenade Plantée

Also known as the Coulée Verte, this 4.5km path may be the capital’s most original park. Nestled amongst Paris’ gorgeous rooftops, the Promenade Plantée is the ideal spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city streets below. Running along what was formerly an elevated railway track, the space was transformed into a public park in 1993. Now, an abundance of trees and plants create a quiet oasis that stretches from Place de la Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes. While you’re in the area, make sure to stop in at one of the many art galleries and shops in the Viaduc des Arts, a converted viaduct located below part of the Promenade along rue Daumesnil.
Promenade Plantée, Runs between Place de la Bastille and the Bois de Vincennes, Paris 75011
Le Viaduc des Arts, 1-129 Avenue Daumesnil, Paris 75012

1. Drinks at Le Baron Rouge

Bar, Charcuterie, Wine Bar, French

With the barrels and bottles lining its walls, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more classic Parisian wine bar than Le Baron Rouge. This tiny spot is a local favorite for its very reasonable prices and convivial atmosphere. Select your wine from the chalkboard behind the counter, order a plate of cheese and charcuterie, and nab a spot at one of the tables spilling out on to the street. On the weekends, come early to snag some of the fresh oysters shucked on demand on the sidewalk.

3. Catch a Show at Bercy

Concert Hall, Music Venue

Formerly called the Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy and Bercy Arena, this arena has hosted competitions of nearly every indoor sport imaginable. Recently re-baptized the AccorHotels Arena, locals still refer to it as Bercy, and it’s large capacity (over 20,000) makes it the go-to spot for any visiting superstars. In the past, it has welcomed artists ranging from Iron Maiden to Beyoncé, and this summer’s big headliners include Adele, Bruce Springsteen, and Justin Bieber, among others.

4. Grocery Shop Like a Local at à l’ancienne

Market, Shop

Paris is well-known for its market culture.Yet while the city streets host numerous small markets every day of the week, the combination of the outdoor stalls of the Marché d’Aligre and the covered ones of Marché Beauvau are hard to beat in terms of size, variety, and price. Dating back to the 18th century, the markets are now home to over 100 different vendors and offer everything you need to create your own feast: a bounty of fresh produce, racks of cured meats, and cases full of cheese.

5. Visit Place de la Bastille

Historical Landmark

Place de la Bastille has a long and significant history. Originally the site of a fortress constructed in the 14th century, it was transformed in the 17th century into a prison housing mainly political prisoners and others who were perceived as a threat to the House of Bourbon’s reign. After the prison was liberated with the Storming of the Bastille during the French Revolution, the site was turned into a public space celebrating liberty, which the July Column standing at it’s center is meant to signify. Today, Place de la Bastille stands as the epicenter of several arrondissements and is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and even an opera house.

6. Go Back in Time at Bercy Village

Shopping Mall

Entering Bercy Village is a bit like going back in time to a 19th-century French village. The area was nearly turned into shopping mall before the restoration project was proposed in the 1990s. Formerly a wine marketplace, today the white stone warehouses have been transformed into shops, restaurants, and galleries. The cobblestone lanes and colorful awnings covering its terraces provide a delightful contrast with the more modern buildings typically found in this corner of the 12th arrondissement.

7. Channel London on the Rue Crémieux

Building

For a city with such a long history, Paris is impressively aesthetically unified, thanks to the white facades and wrought iron balconies brought on by Haussmann’s architectural overhaul during the 19th century. The colorful buildings of the rue Crémieux feel like they belong in a completely different city. Originally designed as an homage to the English style, the residents of this tiny pedestrian street have fully embraced their unique identity with vibrantly painted facades and flourishing greenery. Those familiar with the French blogosphere will surely recognize its cobblestone streets, as the charming pastels have made it a favorite backdrop among the local blogueuses.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.