11th Arrondissement

The Basics

The 11th Arrondissement is a worthwhile destination in its own right, or you can explore the area after a day of museum touring. You can walk to the area in about 30 minutes from the National Picasso Museum and the Centre Pompidou. Among the popular stops: Place De La République, a bustling district hub, and the boutique-packed stretch on Rue de Charonne and nearby Rue Keller. Another great option is to take a hop-on hop-off bus tour—which typically stop in the 11th.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The humble Eglise Saint-Ambroise offers daily mass, a draw for some religious visitors.

• Art lovers should book tickets for a performance at the Opéra Bastille, which is part of the Opéra National de Paris.

• Consider booking a quirky activity in the 11th Arrondissement, like tarot reading.

How to Get There

Because of its central location, the 11th Arrondissement is well connected by public transit. You can take the 2, 3, 5, or 8 metro lines—depending on your 11th Arrondissement destination—though your best bet is the 9. Find the 9 running along Boulevard Voltaire—with four stops within the Arrondissement—it offers easy travel from several nearby attractions, including the must-see Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

When to Get There

The bustling 11th Arrondissement is pleasant year-round. For shopping on the Rue de Charonne, visit after lunch, but avoid Sundays, as boutiques may be closed. Arrive in the early evening for a drink and stay for dinner. Since you can expect a wait at popular eateries, be sure to call for reservations—many Paris restaurants don't accept online reservations.

Visiting the Musée Edith Piaf

If you love music, or just appreciate a quirky museum experience, visit the Musée Edith Piaf. Enter the French chanteuse's former apartment to find an intimate museum packed with ephemera celebrating her career, from photos and gold records, to some of Piaf's dresses. Expect to practice your French while chatting with the museum's docent, and call in advance—this free museum requires a reservation.

Ways to explore

The 11th Arrondissement encompasses several important squares, including the Place de la Bastille, once home to the infamous Bastille prison that insurgents stormed on July 14, 1789, sparking the French Revolution. The Spirit of Liberty (Génie de la Bastille) statue stands in the center of the square.

Walking tours around Paris, especially those focused on food, hidden gems, and revolutionary history, often pay a visit to the 11th Arrondissement and provide insights into the area. For a night out, head for the Oberkampf district, which is filled with cafés, concert venues, and clubs.

Accessibility

The arrondissement is generally wheelchair accessible, but some older areas have cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.

Age limits

Rules at individual businesses vary.

What to pack

Bring your good mood and youthful energy; this is a buzzing, often noisy, part of Paris.

What to wear

If you want to blend in with the locals, dress casually and chic like a Parisian.

Not allowed

Smoking indoors and in some outdoor spaces, including public parks

Amenities

Cafés, restaurants, bars, stores

Address

The 11th Arrondissement is located on the right bank of the River Seine, between the 3rd and 10th arrondissements.

Driving

Parking is expensive and difficult to find, so consider calling a taxi or booking a rideshare instead of driving.

Public transportation

With 25 Paris metro stations, the 11th Arrondissement is easy to access from almost anywhere in Paris. Métro Line 9 stops at Oberkampf, Voltaire, and Saint‑Ambroise stations. The 11th also has a network of bicycling paths.

Best times to visit

Visit the Oberkampf district in the evening to experience this neighborhood at its liveliest, when locals pack the restaurants, cafés, nightclubs, and concert venues.

Best days to visit

Come on a Thursday or Sunday to visit the Marché Bastille, one of Paris’ biggest food markets.

Best months to visit

If you can, plan your visit to the 11th Arrondissment in spring when the weather is ideal for enjoying its outdoor cafés.

Special events

Festival Onze Bouge, a free performing arts festival, takes place in the 11th Arrondissement in May.