10th Arrondissement

The Basics

Situated on the right bank of the River Seine, the 10th Arrondissement is a worthy destination even if you're not planning a day trip by train. Here, find real Parisian life, since few tourist attractions are located in the neighborhood. The 10th is a great destination for dinner after visiting the museums—both Centre Pompidou and Picasso National Museum are located just to the south—or after shopping in the upscale Marais district.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The 10th Arrondissement is a great destination for impromptu travelers, since there's lots to see and no planning required.

• Relax and soak up the sunshine at Jardin Villemin, a quaint park that's an oasis from the bustling city.

• Foodies shouldn't miss the vendor-packed Marché Saint Quentin, on Boulevard Magenta.

• History buffs should stop by Passage Brady, an 1820s arcade that's now home to popular Indo-Pakistani eateries.

How to Get There

It's convenient to get to the 10th Arrondissement by metro. Several lines service the area, including the 4, 5, and 7—all of which connect through the Gare de l'Est transit hub. To walk the canal, plan to take the 2, 5, or 7 trains to the Jaurès metro stop—and walk south—or take the 11 train to the Goncourt / Hôpital St Louis stop, and walk north.

When to Get There

There's no bad time to visit the bustling 10th Arrondissement. To enjoy an evening on the canal, plan to visit after a day wandering the Right Bank, and hop the metro from the nearby 2nd and 3rd arrondissements. Visit on the weekend if you want to experience the area busy with activity, but if you visit on Sunday, expect to find some shops closed.

Exploring the Canal Saint-Martin

One of the must-see features of the 10th Arrondissement is Canal Saint-Martin. Plan to walk the canal between Rue La Fayette and Rue du Faubourg du Temple—about 1.1 miles (1.7 kilometers). Among its charms: numerous cafes with views of the water, locals hanging out on the canal's banks and sipping wine, and restaurant patios brimming with diners. It's an ideal destination on warm nights.

Ways to explore

A visit to the 10th arrondissement typically features a combination of eating, drinking, shopping, and strolling. The district centers around Canal Saint-Martin, lined with shady trees, iron footbridges, and bohemian bars and cafés. Passage Brady is known as "Little India" for its concentration of South Asian restaurants and shops, while the covered market, Marché Saint-Martin, offers local produce and global fare. You can’t miss the Place de La République, dominated by a monumental statue of Marianne, or the triumphal arches of Porte Saint-Martin and Porte Saint-Denis. For an insider’s take, join a walking tour of Paris that passes through.

Accessibility

The 10th is largely wheelchair accessible.

Age limits

None

What to pack

A good book to while away a few hours in a café

What to wear

Dress like a Parisian: clean and chic but not ostentatious

Not allowed

Eating on the go and talking loudly are two American habits that are frowned upon in Paris.

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi, water fountains (including sparkling water)

Address

Paris’ 10th arrondissement is on the right bank of the River Seine (although the river doesn’t run through it).

Driving

While you could drive to the 10th, navigating Parisian traffic, parking, and driving restrictions is a headache. Hail a cab or book a rideshare instead.

Public transportation

Home to Paris’ two major train stations, the 10th arrondissement is well-served by public transit. Take Métro lines 4, 5, or 7 to Gare de l’Est, or lines 4 or 5 to Gare du Nord.

Best times to visit

The bars lining Canal Saint-Martin come alive in the evening with people enjoying drinks by the water.

Best days to visit

Come on Saturday when the district comes alive with people enjoying the bars, markets, and stores. Many stores close on Sundays.

Best months to visit

The spring and fall promise the best conditions for strolling the streets and lingering at canalside cafés. In summer, many businesses close, especially in August.

Special events

Each spring, the 10th hosts the Printemps des Rues street festival with live performances of music, dance, circus, and puppetry.