Paris is often called the “City of Light,” famous for tourist attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. However, beyond these well-known landmarks, there are many hidden gems that are just as beautiful and significant. One such gem is the Coulée Verte, an elevated park stretching 4.7 kilometers through the heart of the city. It perfectly blends nature, history, and modernity, similar to New York’s famous High Line. Join me as we explore this lesser-known yet enchanting part of Paris.
Location and Accessibility
The Coulée Verte starts at the Place de la Bastille, named after the annual Bastille Day celebration. Getting there is easy: take the metro to Bastille Station via lines 1, 5, or 8. The starting point is just a ten-minute walk from the Opéra Bastille. Keep the opera house on your left, and after about 350 meters, you’ll see the start of this charming path—marked by a small red-brick building.
Structure and History
The Coulée Verte, also known as the Promenade Plantée, is built on an old railway line that once connected Paris to the Vincennes forest. The Viaduc de Bastille, as it was originally called, was operational from 1859 to 1969. After being unused for nearly 50 years, it was transformed into the green walkway you see today. Since 1993, it has been a peaceful escape from the bustling city. Beneath the viaduct lies the Viaduc des Arts, now home to artisan studios, while above it is the lush linear park where both Parisians and tourists stroll together.
A Green Oasis in Paris
As you approach the stairs to the Coulée Verte, you’ll encounter a vast green space—a “green stream” flowing through the city. Pink roses grow alongside the typical red-brick buildings of Paris, providing a tranquil retreat for walkers. Along the path, there are benches, drinking fountains, and murals, though some have been tagged with graffiti. Despite this, the artistic expression adds to the promenade’s charm.
Attractions and Points of Interest
One of the highlights of the Coulée Verte is its mix of art and nature. You’ll see replicas of Michelangelo’s Dying Slave sculptures and impressive murals along the trail. For those interested in fitness, there’s an open-air gym, and the scent of jasmine adds to the ambiance. You can also take a break at the Jardin de Reuilly, a small garden perfect for picnics.
A short walk from the Coulée Verte leads to Square Charles Péguy, a green space with shaded benches, a play area, and chess tables. This part of the journey contrasts with the more organized, flowered sections of the viaduct. Walking through the old railway trench below street level offers a sense of seclusion and tranquility, a hidden side of Paris that few explore.
Practical Information
While the Coulée Verte features several lifts for those with limited mobility, many are unfortunately out of service—a common issue in Paris. However, there are numerous staircases along the path, as well as well-maintained plantations and shaded areas. If you get thirsty, you’ll find drinking fountains along the way, sourced from the Loing and Voulzie springs.
How to Get There and Back
The Coulée Verte begins at Place de la Bastille and stretches eastward to the Boulevard Périphérique, an inner ring road around Paris. After your walk, you can catch bus line 29 at the Porte de Montempoivre stop, which will take you back to Bastille, completing your walking tour.
FAQs: What People Want to Know
- Can anyone in a wheelchair visit the Coulée Verte?
Although the promenade has lifts for those with limited mobility, many are out of order, making the walk challenging for wheelchair users. - What is the best season to visit?
The Coulée Verte is scenic year-round, but spring and summer are when the gardens truly come to life. - Are there places to eat along the way?
Yes, there are restaurants along the Allée Vivaldi section of the path. - How long does it take to complete the walk?
Walking the full length of the Coulée Verte takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace. - Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Final Thoughts
The Coulée Verte is rich in history, architecture, and natural beauty. It’s a fantastic destination for tourists looking to experience a different side of Paris. This elevated walkway offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, with stunning views, well-maintained gardens, and hidden artistic details. Though often overlooked, the Coulée Verte is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful parts of the city.
Discovering this green gem will introduce you to a lesser-known side of Paris, making your visit truly unique.
