All Arrondissements
13e Arrondissement

Gobelins

Butte-aux-Cailles · Chinatown · Bibliothèque

Best For
Foodies seeking authentic Asian cuisine, street art lovers, and those wanting to experience a less touristy, genuinely diverse Paris.
Avoid If
You're focused on classic Parisian monuments — this is off the typical tourist path.
Nightlife
Medium
Best Time
Evening in Butte-aux-Cailles, lunchtime in Chinatown
Insider Tip
Butte-aux-Cailles feels like a village within Paris — cobblestone streets, street art, and cozy bars. Pho 14 in Chinatown is legendary.
The Vibe

Paris's most multicultural arrondissement —
Chinatown meets bohemian village.

Home to the Manufacture des Gobelins since the 17th century, the 13th is Paris's most diverse arrondissement. The Asian community settled here in the 1970s–80s, creating the largest Chinatown in Europe. The area around the Bibliothèque Nationale represents modern Parisian urban development.

Truly diverse — from the hip Butte-aux-Cailles crowd to the bustling Asian markets. Very authentic and unpretentious. The cobblestone streets of Butte-aux-Cailles feel like a village within the city, with street art, cozy bars, and a community that hasn't been polished for tourists.

Insider Tip
Butte-aux-Cailles feels like a village within Paris — cobblestone streets, street art, and cozy bars. Pho 14 in Chinatown is legendary.
Walking Tips
Start at Gobelins for the historic tapestry workshop, walk through Butte-aux-Cailles for street art and cafés, then explore Chinatown for food.
Key Landmarks
Bibliothèque Nationale de FranceButte-aux-CaillesAsian QuarterManufacture des Gobelins
Metro Stations
Place d'ItalieBibliothèque François MitterrandTolbiacGobelins
Hidden Gems
  • Butte-aux-Cailles — charming village atmosphere with street art
  • Piscine de la Butte-aux-Cailles — stunning Art Deco swimming pool
  • Street art throughout the 13th — including murals by C215
  • Tang Frères — massive Asian supermarket experience
Where to Go

Venues we recommend.

Venue recommendations coming soon for this arrondissement.

← 12e All Arrondissements 14e →