20e Arrondissement: Ménilmontant

Best For

Music and art lovers, visitors to Père Lachaise, and anyone who appreciates diversity, creative energy, and the real working Paris.

Avoid If

You want polished, touristy Paris — this is raw and real.

Nightlife

High

Best Time

Afternoon at Père Lachaise, evening in Belleville/Oberkampf

Insider Tip

Visit Père Lachaise in the morning when it's quiet and atmospheric. Watch sunset from Belleville Park for one of the best views of Paris.

The Vibe

Paris's most bohemian arrondissement —
home to Édith Piaf, Père Lachaise, and street art.

Belleville and Ménilmontant were independent villages until 1860. The area has always been working-class and home to successive waves of immigrants — each community leaving its mark on the food, the music, and the street culture. Édith Piaf was born here. The Commune de Paris made its last stand here.

Creative, diverse, and unpretentious. The nightlife scene rivals the Marais. Street art is everywhere — world-class murals cover entire building facades. This is where young Parisians actually live, and where the next generation of Paris is being written.

Insider Tip

Visit Père Lachaise in the morning when it's quiet and atmospheric. Watch sunset from Belleville Park for one of the best views of Paris.

Walking Tips

Start at Père Lachaise (find Jim Morrison, Oscar Wilde, Édith Piaf), walk up through Ménilmontant to Belleville Park, then explore the vibrant streets.

Key Landmarks

Père Lachaise CemeteryBelleville ParkRue OberkampfLa BellevilloiseÉdith Piaf Museum

Metro Stations

Père LachaiseGambettaBellevilleMénilmontant

Hidden Gems

Père Lachaise Cemetery — world's most visited cemetery, incredibly atmospheric
Belleville Park viewpoint — stunning panoramic views of Paris
Street art of Belleville — world-class murals throughout
La Bellevilloise — cultural center in a historic workers' cooperative

Ménilmontant

Paris's most bohemian arrondissement —home to Édith Piaf, Père Lachaise, and street art.

Venues we recommend.

Paris's most bohemian arrondissement —
home to Édith Piaf, Père Lachaise, and street art.