
13th Arrondissement Paris
Discover Paris's artistic edge and global flavors in the 13th arrondissement, a district of vibrant street art, modern architecture, and bustling Chin...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe

13th Arrondissement Paris
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed vibe
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Paris's artistic edge and global flavors in the 13th arrondissement, a district of vibrant street art, modern architecture, and bustling Chinatown.
"The 13th arrondissement offers a refreshing, authentic Paris experience with incredible street art and food."

🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The 13th arrondissement is best discovered by walking to stumble upon hidden street art and local gems .
🍜 Taste of Asia
Don't miss the authentic Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai food in Chinatown .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Street Art Wonderland
Various locations throughout the arrondissement
Discover massive, vibrant murals adorning buildings, transforming the urban landscape into an open-air gallery.

Paris Chinatown
Around Avenue d'Ivry and Avenue de Choisy
Immerse yourself in a bustling Asian cultural hub with authentic restaurants, markets, and shops.

Modern Architectural Marvels
Bibliothèque Nationale de France area
Admire striking contemporary buildings and the impressive architecture of the National Library of France.

Butte-aux-Cailles Village Charm
Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood
Wander through this charming, village-like area with cobblestone streets, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Unexpected
Chinatown Delights & Vintage Finds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The 13th arrondissement is best discovered by walking to stumble upon hidden street art and local gems.
🍜 Taste of Asia
Don't miss the authentic Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai food in Chinatown.
🛍️ Vintage Shopping
Hunt for unique finds at the large vintage stores, some with incredible prices.
🚇 Metro is Key
While walkable, the metro is essential for reaching the 13th from central Paris.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
The 13th arrondissement is best discovered by walking to stumble upon hidden street art and local gems.
🍜 Taste of Asia
Don't miss the authentic Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai food in Chinatown.
🛍️ Vintage Shopping
Hunt for unique finds at the large vintage stores, some with incredible prices.
🚇 Metro is Key
While walkable, the metro is essential for reaching the 13th from central Paris.
🎨 Street Art Hunter
Look up! Some of the best street art is on building facades and can be missed if you're not observant.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the 13th arrondissement for its unique character, vibrant street art, and authentic Asian culinary scene, particularly in Chinatown. It's seen as a refreshing departure from typical tourist spots, offering a more local feel. However, some find its distance from central attractions a drawback, requiring more travel time.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The 13th arrondissement is well-connected by the Paris Métro. Lines 6, 7, and 14 serve key areas like Place d'Italie, Nationale, and Olympiades, making it accessible from major tourist hubs. Consider using apps like Citymapper or Google Maps for real-time navigation.
Yes, the 13th arrondissement is generally considered safe for tourists. While it's on the outskirts, it's a residential area with good public transport links. As with any large city, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
The Métro is efficient for longer distances within the 13th. However, for exploring specific neighborhoods like Chinatown or Butte-aux-Cailles, walking is highly recommended to discover its unique charm and street art.
The 13th arrondissement is located south of the city center. While not immediately adjacent to landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, it's easily reachable by Métro in about 20-30 minutes, depending on your starting point and destination.
Key Métro stations include Place d'Italie (lines 5, 6, 7), Nationale (line 6), Corvisart (line 6), and Olympiades (line 14). These stations provide access to different parts of the arrondissement, including Chinatown and areas with street art.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the street art in the 13th arrondissement is publicly displayed on buildings and walls, making it free to view. It's an open-air art gallery that you can explore at your own pace.
Chinatown in the 13th arrondissement is a neighborhood, not a ticketed attraction. You can freely wander its streets, browse shops, and enjoy the atmosphere without any entry fees.
Opening hours for vintage stores can vary. Many are open daily, often from around 10 AM to 7 PM or 8 PM, but it's best to check specific store hours online or upon arrival.
Access to the public areas and exhibitions of the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (BnF) may have specific entry requirements or fees. It's advisable to check the official BnF website for current information on visiting hours and ticket prices.
While not as common as in central Paris, some local guides or organizations may offer walking tours focusing on street art or the culinary scene in the 13th arrondissement. Searching online for 'Paris 13th arrondissement tours' can reveal options.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The 13th arrondissement boasts a fantastic array of Asian eateries. Popular choices include Pho Bida for Vietnamese pho, Uncle Kang for Chinese cuisine, and Thaï Yim for Thai dishes. Ngoc Xuyen Saigon is also highly recommended for its soups.
While many dishes are meat or seafood-based, you can often find vegetarian options, especially in Vietnamese and Thai restaurants. It's always a good idea to ask your server for recommendations or inquire about vegetable-based dishes.
The 13th arrondissement is renowned for its vibrant Asian culinary scene, particularly Vietnamese, Chinese, and Thai food, centered around its Chinatown. You'll also find charming cafes and bistros in areas like Butte-aux-Cailles.
Many restaurants in the 13th arrondissement, especially within Chinatown, offer authentic and affordable dining experiences. You can find delicious meals at reasonable prices, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
Beyond the Asian eateries, areas like Butte-aux-Cailles offer a selection of cozy cafes and coffee shops perfect for a break. Keep an eye out for independent spots as you explore the neighborhood.
📸 📸 Photography
The 13th arrondissement offers diverse photographic opportunities. Capture the massive, colorful street art murals, the bustling atmosphere of Chinatown, and the unique modern architecture around the National Library.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer, more even lighting for photographing street art, minimizing harsh shadows and glare. Golden hour can also create dramatic effects.
A versatile lens, like a 24-70mm equivalent, is useful for capturing both wide street art and street scenes. A wide-angle lens can be great for the large murals, while a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for most casual shots.
Generally, yes, you can take photos inside vintage stores for personal use. However, it's always polite to ask permission from the staff, especially if you plan to take many photos or use a professional setup.
While not as famous for panoramic views as Montmartre or the Eiffel Tower, some of the taller modern buildings in the 13th arrondissement might offer interesting perspectives. The area around the National Library provides a modern urban landscape to photograph.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🚶♀️ Solo Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the 13th: Street Art & Architecture
Complementing the street art is the arrondissement's striking modern architecture. The area around the Bibliothèque Nationale de France (BnF), designed by Dominique Perrault, is a prime example, featuring sleek lines and imposing structures that stand in contrast to traditional Parisian Haussmannian buildings. This blend of urban art and contemporary design gives the 13th a distinct, forward-looking identity that sets it apart from other Parisian districts.
A Taste of Asia: Exploring Paris Chinatown
Beyond the food, Chinatown is a fantastic place to explore Asian markets filled with exotic ingredients, specialty products, and unique snacks. The area is also dotted with shops selling everything from traditional clothing and ceramics to K-pop merchandise. Visiting during festivals or holidays can offer an even more immersive cultural experience, with vibrant decorations and special events.
Vintage Treasures and Local Finds
Beyond the large thrift shops, the Butte-aux-Cailles neighborhood offers a more bohemian and village-like atmosphere. Here, you can find independent boutiques, artisan shops, and charming cafes, providing a more intimate shopping and exploration experience. It’s a great area to wander without a specific destination, allowing for serendipitous discoveries.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit