Belleville

The basics

Belleville started life as a hilltop village, famed for its lively guinguettes (open-air cafès) and surrounding vineyards. The area was integrated into the city of Paris in 1860, and today’s buzzy neighborhood still retains much of its original character. Many Belleville food tours delve into its sprawling Chinatown and abundance of international restaurants and quirky bars, while street art and photography tours focus on its art galleries and spectacular views over Paris from the hillside park.

Things to know before you go

• Belleville is best explored on foot, so choose comfortable shoes to cover the neighborhood without getting footsore.

• Stuffed with cutting-edge galleries and street art, this area is a must-see for contemporary art enthusiasts.

• The Parc de Belleville offers bird’s-eye views for a unique perspective over central Paris; bring your camera to capture the panorama.

• Though some streets are steep, the main thoroughfares and squares in this corner of Paris are more or less level and paved.

How to get there

Belleville is located between the 19th and 20th arrondissements in northeast Paris and is reachable by metro line 11 from the city center in less than 10 minutes. The city bus line 96 also runs from the city center to this outlying neighborhood, or you can grab a taxi.

When to get there

Visit on a mild, clear day to take in the open-air street art without having to dodge raindrops. The area’s trendy dining and imbibing scene really heats up come sunset, so head here in the evening to experience a unique, contemporary side to Paris and its multicultural food.

Sightseeing highlights in Belleville

Most visitors to Belleville are drawn by its contemporary art and international dining, but this historic area also offers numerous landmarks that are worth a visit. Begin with the churches of Saint Jean Baptiste de Belleville and Notre Dame de la Croix, then take in the old aqueduct, the remains of the decommissioned Belleville funicular, and the birthplace of iconic French singer Edith Piaf.

What is Belleville, Paris like?

Belleville isn’t as touristy as some other neighborhoods in Paris, but it has an artsy, creative, and hip feel. It is a cultural melting pot, so you’ll see people from different backgrounds. It’s great if you want a cool spot that few tourists see.

What can you do in Belleville?

Belleville is most famous for its street art scene, with new murals constantly popping up. It’s an immigrant neighborhood, so many restaurants and street eateries have multicultural food. Stop by the market when it’s open and see a variety of ingredients from all over the world.

How is the street art scene in Belleville?

The street art scene in Belleville is one of the most important in Paris, so make that a top priority when visiting. Join a street art tour, which will most likely take you to Rue Denoyez or Place Frehel. Art changes all the time, so visit more than once.

What kind of tours can I do in Belleville?

There are several tours in Belleville; some combine a city tour with other attractions, like the Eiffel Tower. Street art is one of its main draws, so walking tours highlighting street art are popular. The food scene is also a thing in Bellville, so there are plenty of tours for foodies.

How long do I need to spend in Belleville?

Belleville could be a day tour or a hub for exploring the rest of Paris. It’s not as trendy as many other arrondissements but has its own energy and flair. A fun day in Bellville would be hopping on a street art tour in the morning and a foodie one around lunchtime.

Is staying in Belleville safe?

As with any part of a big city, it's wise to keep your wits about you in Bellville. It has an edginess, with its street art scene and multicultural identity. But that doesn’t make it less safe than other areas in Paris—or the world.

Ways to explore

Originally a hilltop village, Belleville was famed for its lively guinguettes (open-air cafès) and surrounding vineyards. The area was integrated into the City of Paris in 1860, and today’s buzzy neighborhood still retains much of its distinct character.

Many Belleville food tours delve into its sprawling Chinatown and abundance of international restaurants and quirky bars. Street art and photography tours focus on art galleries and the spectacular views over Paris from the hillside park.

Accessibility

Belleville is hilly, which may pose some challenges for wheelchair users or anyone with mobility limitations.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Plates, utensils, and cups for a picnic—you can buy food items at a market.

What to wear

Comfortable shoes (this area is best explored on foot), sun hat, umbrella

Not allowed

Haggling in the food markets—it’s not done in Paris.

Amenities

Playgrounds in Belleville Park, public restrooms at Belleville station

Address

Belleville is located between the 19th and 20th arrondissements in northeastern Paris. It’s considered an outer neighborhood, but it’s still close enough that it’s quick and easy to catch transport or drive from central Paris.

Driving

Head east to the Boulevard de Belleville, a major thoroughfare that connects with the Boulevard de la Villette and the Boulevard de Ménilmontant. You may be able to find paid street parking, although the terrain is hilly and streets sometimes narrow, or you can park in a parking garage.

Public transportation

Take the metro to Couronnes (line 2), Belleville (lines 2, 11), Pyrénées (line 11), or Jourdain (line 11). Bus number 96 also runs from the city center to this outlying neighborhood.

Best times to visit

During the day to wander the streets and admire the street art, or after sunset for the best dining and drinking.

Best days to visit

The Belleville Market is held on Tuesdays and Sundays, the Villette Market on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and the Place des Fêtes Market on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

Best months to visit

Anytime, although June to August are especially busy with tourists, even though many local businesses are closed in July and August.

Special events

“Open doors” festivals, run by the Belleville Artists’ Studios Association, are held a few times a year—peek inside local art studios and speak to artists about their work.