How long does it take to walk through Belleville?

A typical self-guided walk takes between 90 and 120 minutes. This includes time to stop for photos at the Belvédère and explore the side streets like Place Sainte-Marthe.

Is Belleville worth visiting for views of Paris?

Yes, the Belvédère de Belleville offers one of the best panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower and the city skyline. It is much less crowded than the Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre.

Can I see Edith Piaf's birthplace in Belleville?

You can visit 72 Rue de Belleville, where a plaque commemorates her birth. Legend says she was born on the pavement under a lamppost nearby.

Is the Belleville street art walk difficult?

The walk is considered moderate. While the distance is manageable, the neighborhood is situated on a steep hill, so there is significant uphill walking required to reach the viewpoint.

Are there many stairs on this walking route?

Yes, there are several sets of stairs, especially when navigating the Parc de Belleville to reach the Belvédère viewpoint.

What is the best time of day to visit Belleville?

Late afternoon is ideal. This allows you to see the street art in daylight and reach the Belvédère in time for the sunset over the city.

Where can I find public toilets in Belleville?

Public restrooms are located within the Parc de Belleville and near the Belleville Metro station. Many local cafes are also available for patrons.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the polished boulevards of central Paris and dive into the raw, creative energy of Belleville. This self-guided walk invites you to explore a neighborhood where working-class history meets a cutting-edge urban art scene. Perched on one of the city's highest hills, Belleville offers some of the most spectacular views of the Eiffel Tower and the Parisian skyline, all while maintaining a village-like atmosphere that feels worlds away from the Louvre. On this walking route, you will navigate through narrow alleys draped in ivy and vibrant graffiti, discovering why this area has become a sanctuary for artists and local rebels alike. The journey begins at the intersection of street culture and institutional art, where massive murals change every few weeks, ensuring that no two visits are ever exactly the same. As you move deeper into the neighborhood, you'll encounter Rue Denoyez, a street where every inch of brickwork serves as a canvas. Beyond the spray paint, this neighborhood stroll reveals hidden squares like Place Sainte-Marthe, which retains the charm of a 19th-century industrial village with its colorful storefronts and quiet cafes. The climb is rewarded at the Belvédère de Belleville, a panoramic lookout that rivals Montmartre but without the overwhelming crowds. This is a walking tour Paris enthusiasts often overlook, yet it captures the true, evolving spirit of the city. Whether you are interested in the legacy of Edith Piaf or the latest trends in French urban art, this independent exploration provides a deep dive into the 20th arrondissement. From the neo-Gothic grandeur of Notre-Dame-de-la-Croix to the bustling, multicultural energy of the main Rue de Belleville, this route showcases the grit and the glory of a neighborhood that refuses to be gentrified into silence. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Rotating large-scale murals at Association Le M.U.R.

The graffiti-covered walls of the famous Rue Denoyez

Village vibes and colorful shops at Place Sainte-Marthe

Breathtaking panoramic views from the Belvédère de Belleville

The historic Neo-Gothic Church of Our Lady of the Cross

The legendary birthplace of Edith Piaf on Rue de Belleville

Tour Stops (6)

ASSOCIATION LE M.U.R.

Start your self-guided adventure at the corner of Rue Saint-Maur and Rue Oberkampf. Le M.U.R. stands for Modulable, Urbain, et Réactif, and it serves as a billboard-sized gallery for urban artists. Since 2007, this spot has hosted a new artist every few weeks, who creates a massive work of art right before the public's eyes. Because the art is ephemeral, what you see today is a unique moment in the city's creative timeline. This project bridged the gap between 'vandalism' and recognized contemporary art, turning a former advertising space into a rotating monument to Parisian street culture.

Rue Denoyez

Walk toward Rue Denoyez, perhaps the most famous 'open-air gallery' in Paris. For years, this street has been a legal space for artists to express themselves, resulting in layers upon layers of spray paint, wheatpastes, and 3D installations. As you stroll, notice how the art interacts with the flower pots and window frames of the local residents. While the street has faced pressure from urban redevelopment, it remains a symbol of Belleville's defiant artistic spirit. The colors here change almost daily, so keep your camera ready for unexpected details in the doorways and alcoves.

Place Sainte-Marthe

Step into a different era at Place Sainte-Marthe. This quiet square and its surrounding streets were originally built as working-class housing in the mid-19th century. Today, it feels like a secret village tucked away from the city's noise. The storefronts here are painted in a beautiful palette of pastel colors, housing eclectic bistros, small studios, and craft shops. It is a perfect example of the 'micro-neighborhoods' that make Paris so diverse. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility and the scale of the architecture, which feels much more intimate than the grand Haussmannian boulevards nearby.

Belvédère de Belleville

Prepare for a climb as you head toward the Parc de Belleville. At the top, you will reach the Belvédère, a terrace offering one of the most expansive views of Paris. From here, the Eiffel Tower stands prominently on the horizon, framed by the modern skyline of the city. The park itself was created on former gypsum quarries and vineyards, and the steep incline is what allows for such a dramatic vantage point. The murals on the pillars of the terrace often pay homage to the local community and the history of the hill, blending the natural landscape with urban creativity.

Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Cross of Ménilmontant

This impressive Neo-Gothic church is one of the largest in Paris, though it remains largely unknown to most travelers. Built in the mid-1800s, its spire dominates the local skyline. The church is notable for its elevated position; the front steps offer a unique perspective looking back down the sloping streets of Ménilmontant toward the center of Paris. Inside, you will find a surprisingly vast space with beautiful stained glass. It serves as a spiritual anchor for a neighborhood that has historically been home to waves of immigrants and revolutionaries.

Rue de Belleville

Finish your walking route on the vibrant Rue de Belleville. This street is the beating heart of the district, known for its incredible mix of cultures and its connection to French icon Edith Piaf. Legend has it that the 'Little Sparrow' was born under a lamppost at number 72, though a plaque nearby marks the spot more officially. As you walk down the hill, you'll pass traditional French bakeries alongside some of the best Chinese and Vietnamese eateries in the city. The energy here is authentic and unpretentious, providing the perfect conclusion to your exploration of this hillside haven.

Frequently Asked Questions

The best way to see Belleville's art is a self-guided stroll through Rue Denoyez and Le M.U.R. Oberkampf. These spots feature a high density of legal and illegal works that change frequently, offering a authentic look at Paris's urban art scene.