Les Arènes de Picasso (Noisy-le-Grand) - Image 1
1 / 10

Les Arènes de Picasso Noisy-le-Grand

3.8
·158 reviews·Noisy-le-Grand, France

Iconic postmodern housing complexes with surreal, monumental architecture, offering unique photo opportunities.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

More relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Les Arènes de Picasso (Noisy-le-Grand) - Image 1

Les Arènes de Picasso Noisy-le-Grand

Best Time

Early mornings

More relaxed atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic postmodern housing complexes with surreal, monumental architecture, offering unique photo opportunities.

3.8
(158 reviews)

"Fascinating architecture but plenty of gang members so be careful why you take photos of !"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photography Focus

Great for unique architectural shots, but be aware of your surroundings.

⚠️ Safety Awareness

Some visitors report feeling unsafe; stay vigilant.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Les Arènes de Picasso

Les Arènes de Picasso

Noisy-le-Grand

A surreal, amphitheater-like structure with a unique, repeating pattern reminiscent of bistro chairs.

Reddit
Espaces d'Abraxas

Espaces d'Abraxas

Noisy-le-Grand

An iconic housing complex with monumental, postmodern architecture that feels like a film set.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Safety First: Be Aware of Your Surroundings

While the architecture is striking, some visitors report feeling unsafe, especially in certain areas. Be mindful of your belongings and surroundings, particularly if visiting during off-peak hours. Reddit

Timing is Key for a Pleasant Visit

Visiting early in the morning seems to offer a more relaxed atmosphere, with locals preparing for events and the area feeling friendlier. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
More relaxed atmosphere
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Visiting Picasso Arena and Abraxas? Noisy-le-Grand

📸 Photography Focus

Great for unique architectural shots, but be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

⚠️ Safety Awareness

Some visitors report feeling unsafe; stay vigilant. Reddit

reddit.com

Apparently, this is called Les Arenes de Picasso in Noisy-le-Grand, France

reddit.com

Question about Noisy Le Grand

⏰ Early Bird Advantage

Mornings can be more welcoming than later in the day. Reddit

No content available

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photography Focus

Great for unique architectural shots, but be aware of your surroundings. Reddit

⚠️ Safety Awareness

Some visitors report feeling unsafe; stay vigilant. Reddit

⏰ Early Bird Advantage

Mornings can be more welcoming than later in the day. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.8
(158 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors are captivated by the surreal and monumental postmodern architecture of Les Arènes de Picasso and Espaces d'Abraxas, finding them incredible for photography. However, a significant number of reviews raise concerns about safety and the local atmosphere, advising caution, especially around Espaces d'Abraxas. Reddit

"Dangerous place! It's best not to venture into such places without protection. I took a risk, which I later regretted. It's a dangerous neighborhood; people look at you ominously and all I wanted was to get out of there as quickly as possible. Where is the police? Where are the police patrols? People who give five stars are extremely irresponsible."

Ave Silesia

"We came here around 9 AM and the area was really chilled, people were preparing some party flags around and the whole place seemed friendly, for sure more then in Espaces d'Abraxas. We did quite a lot of photos and videos of the architecture and no one told us anything. So I can't agree with some of the reviews here but maybe it depends on the time of the day. Anyway, what an experience to see such architecture!"

Jana Hronská

"NOT SAFE, advertising this as a part of experience and leaving 5 stars is irresponsible in my opinion, maybe someone will be less lucky than you were. Before coming here, please read the opinions and think twice if you want to take the risk. Maybe better than Abraxas but still I wouldn't recommend"

Barbara Bełza

What People Like

Surreal architecture
Photogenic locations
Unique urban design

What People Dislike

Safety concerns
Unwelcoming atmosphere

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

You can reach Noisy-le-Grand by taking the RER A train towards Marne-la-Vallée Chessy and alighting at the Noisy-le-Grand Mont d'Est station. From there, it's a walk to both Les Arènes de Picasso and Espaces d'Abraxas. Reddit

The RER A is generally reliable for reaching the area, but always check for any service updates before your journey. Reddit

Driving is an option, but parking availability and local traffic conditions can vary. Public transport is often recommended. Reddit

Local bus routes may serve the area around Noisy-le-Grand Mont d'Est station, providing further access within the neighborhood. Reddit

Both Les Arènes de Picasso and Espaces d'Abraxas are within walking distance of each other once you arrive at the RER station. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Les Arènes de Picasso and Espaces d'Abraxas are residential and public spaces, so no tickets are required for general access. Reddit

There are no official entry fees for photography, but be respectful of residents and their privacy. Reddit

As these are residential areas, they are accessible at all times, but visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and better visibility. Reddit

While casual photography is fine, professional filming or large-scale photo shoots might require permissions, especially if it impacts residents. Reddit

There isn't a dedicated visitor center for these architectural sites. Information is primarily gathered from online resources and community discussions. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The central amphitheater area offers iconic views, and exploring the surrounding walkways provides unique perspectives on the repeating patterns. Reddit

Its monumental scale, striking postmodern design, and the sense of being in a surreal, almost dystopian landscape make it incredibly photogenic. Reddit

Early mornings are often recommended for softer light and a less crowded, potentially safer experience. Reddit

Many photographers focus on the grand scale of the buildings, the repeating geometric patterns, and the interplay of light and shadow. Reddit

Be mindful of residents' privacy and avoid intrusive photography. Some areas might feel less welcoming than others. Reddit

🎫 ⚠️ Safety & Local Vibe

Visitor experiences vary. While some find it safe and interesting, others report feeling unsafe, particularly around Espaces d'Abraxas. It's advisable to be vigilant. Reddit

The atmosphere can differ significantly by time of day and specific location. Mornings are often described as more relaxed. Reddit

Some reviews suggest exercising extra caution around Espaces d'Abraxas, though others found it less problematic than anticipated. Reddit

Keep your belongings secure, be aware of your surroundings, and trust your instincts. Avoid displaying valuables openly. Reddit

Interactions can vary. Some visitors have had neutral experiences, while others have felt unwelcome. Early morning visits might offer a friendlier vibe. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the architecture is visually striking, families should be aware of the mixed safety reviews. If visiting, opt for early morning hours when the atmosphere is generally more relaxed. Reddit Ensure children are supervised closely and keep belongings secure. The unique, almost surreal design might capture a child's imagination, but the primary focus should be on a safe and comfortable experience. Consider it more of a quick photo stop than an extended family outing.

📸 Photographers & Urban Explorers

These sites offer incredible opportunities for unique architectural photography. Les Arènes de Picasso's repeating patterns and Espaces d'Abraxas' monumental scale are highly photogenic. Reddit Visit early in the morning for the best light and a potentially more relaxed environment. Reddit Be mindful of residents and avoid intrusive shots. While some reviews mention potential safety concerns, many photographers have successfully captured stunning images without issue by being aware and respectful. Reddit

🤔 Budget Travelers

Both Les Arènes de Picasso and Espaces d'Abraxas are free to visit as they are public residential areas. Reddit The main cost will be transportation via the RER A train from Paris. This makes it an accessible option for those looking for visually impressive sights without a hefty admission fee. Reddit Just be prepared to be self-sufficient as amenities might be limited.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvels: Les Arènes de Picasso & Espaces d'Abraxas

Les Arènes de Picasso, designed by architect Manolo Nuñez Grandi, is a striking residential complex in Noisy-le-Grand. Its most distinctive feature is the central amphitheater, characterized by a repeating, almost hypnotic pattern that has drawn comparisons to bistro chairs. This unique design creates a surreal and visually captivating environment, making it a popular spot for photographers and urban explorers seeking unusual architectural forms. Reddit

Nearby, the Espaces d'Abraxas, designed by Ricardo Bofill, is another monumental postmodern housing project that has gained international recognition. Its colossal scale and dramatic, almost theatrical design have led to it being featured in films and art projects. The sheer size and unique aesthetic of Abraxas offer a stark contrast to traditional Parisian architecture, providing a glimpse into a different vision of urban living. Reddit

Both sites represent bold architectural statements from the late 20th century, offering visitors a chance to experience avant-garde urban design firsthand. While their visual impact is undeniable, it's important to approach these areas with an awareness of their residential nature and the varying local perceptions. Reddit

Navigating Safety and Perception

When planning a visit to Les Arènes de Picasso and Espaces d'Abraxas, it's crucial to acknowledge the mixed reviews regarding safety. Some visitors have reported feeling uneasy or even threatened, describing the neighborhoods as potentially dangerous and advising extreme caution. These accounts often highlight a feeling of being unwelcome or observed ominously. Reddit

Conversely, other visitors have had positive experiences, particularly when visiting early in the morning. They describe the areas as 'chilled' and friendly, with no issues encountered while taking photos. This suggests that the perception of safety can be highly dependent on the time of day, the specific location within the complexes, and individual experiences. Reddit

To maximize a positive and safe visit, it's recommended to go during daylight hours, preferably in the morning, and to remain aware of your surroundings. Respecting the residential nature of these sites by not being overly intrusive is also key. While the architecture is a significant draw, approaching the visit with a balanced perspective, informed by both positive and cautionary accounts, is advisable. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2