How long does it take to walk from Bastille to the Aligre Market?

The direct walk takes about 15-20 minutes, covering roughly 1.2 kilometers. However, with stops at Rue de Lappe and the Viaduc des Arts, you should allow at least an hour.

Is the Aligre Market walk family-friendly?

Yes, it is a great family activity, especially the Coulée Verte park which is car-free. Children usually enjoy the vibrant colors and snacks at the market.

Can I do a guided tour Paris style experience on my own here?

Absolutely, this self-guided walking route allows you to enjoy the depth of a traditional tour with the flexibility of your own schedule.

Is the Aligre Market expensive?

No, Marché d'Aligre is known as one of the most affordable markets in Paris. While the covered Beauvau market has premium goods, the outdoor produce market offers very competitive prices.

Are there places to eat along the walking route?

Yes, the route is packed with options, from the wine and oysters at Le Baron Rouge to numerous bakeries and bistros around the Place d'Aligre.

Is the Coulée Verte free to enter?

Yes, the Coulée Verte René-Dumont is a public municipal park and is completely free to enter during its opening hours.

What should I buy at Marché d'Aligre?

Look for regional cheeses in the covered hall, seasonal berries in the outdoor market, and unique vintage finds in the small flea market section on the square.

How do I get back to central Paris after the walk?

The walk ends near Gare de Lyon, which is a major transit hub. You can take Metro Line 1 or 14 to reach central locations like Châtelet or the Louvre in under 10 minutes.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step away from the typical tourist routes and immerse yourself in the authentic pulse of East Paris. This self-guided walk takes you through the heart of the Bastille district, a neighborhood that has masterfully transitioned from a site of revolutionary fervor to a hub of artisanal craft and culinary excellence. Your journey begins at the iconic Place de la Bastille, where the echoes of the French Revolution meet the modern grandeur of the Opéra Bastille. From there, you will weave through the narrow, historic streets like Rue de Lappe, which once hummed with the sound of the accordion in traditional dance halls and now serves as a vibrant center for local nightlife. The centerpiece of this neighborhood stroll is the Marché d’Aligre, often cited by Parisians as the best market in the city. Unlike more manicured markets, Aligre retains a gritty, bustling charm, combining an outdoor fruit and vegetable market with a historic covered hall and a treasure-filled flea market. You will have the opportunity to explore the stalls of Le marché couvert Beauvau, where the scent of aged Comté and fresh truffles fills the air. Along the way, this walking route highlights the Viaduc des Arts, an elevated railway line transformed into a corridor of high-end craft workshops, showcasing the city's commitment to preserving industrial heritage. Whether you are a food enthusiast looking for the perfect cheese pairing at Le Baron Rouge or a photography lover capturing the red-brick arches of the 12th arrondissement, this self-guided adventure offers a flexible way to see Paris. This walking tour Paris experience is designed for those who want to discover the city at their own pace, moving from the chaotic energy of the market to the tranquil heights of the Coulée Verte René-Dumont. It is a sensory exploration of a neighborhood that remains fiercely local despite its proximity to the city center. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

The revolutionary history of the Place de la Bastille

Traditional Bal-musette history on the vibrant Rue de Lappe

Artisanal workshops tucked under the Viaduc des Arts

Wine tasting rituals at the iconic Le Baron Rouge

Gourmet food shopping at the historic Marché Beauvau

A peaceful stroll along the elevated Coulée Verte René-Dumont

Tour Stops (6)

Place de la Bastille

Begin your self-guided adventure at the Place de la Bastille, a site synonymous with the birth of the French Republic. While the physical fortress is long gone—destroyed during the Revolution—its footprint is still marked in the paving stones of the square. In the center stands the July Column, topped by the 'Spirit of Liberty,' commemorating the Revolution of 1830. Look across the square to see the striking contrast of the Opéra Bastille, a modern glass-and-steel masterpiece inaugurated in 1989. This area is the gateway to the 11th and 12th arrondissements, serving as a symbolic bridge between historic Paris and the burgeoning creative districts to the east.

Rue de Lappe

Turn down the narrow Rue de Lappe, a street that feels worlds away from the grand boulevards. In the early 20th century, this was the heart of the Auvergnat community in Paris. It became famous for its 'bals-musette,' dance halls where the accordion was king. One of the most famous, Balajo, still stands today. While the street is now a hotspot for evening nightlife with its many bars and small eateries, its architecture still whispers stories of the cabinet makers and metalworkers who once lived here. Take note of the hidden courtyards tucked behind the facades, which occasionally offer a glimpse into the neighborhood's industrial past.

Viaduc des Arts

As you walk toward the market, you will encounter the Viaduc des Arts. This series of red-brick arches once supported the Vincennes railway line. Instead of demolishing the structure when the trains stopped running, the city transformed it. Today, the arches house the 'Showrooms of the Arts,' where master glassblowers, luthiers, and furniture restorers ply their trade. It is a perfect example of Parisian urban renewal, blending 19th-century engineering with contemporary design. The glass-fronted workshops allow passersby to observe the meticulous work of local artisans, preserving the neighborhood's long-standing reputation for high-quality craftsmanship.

Le Baron Rouge

Before entering the market proper, stop at Le Baron Rouge. This is more than just a wine bar; it is a neighborhood institution. Known for its floor-to-ceiling walls of wine bottles and massive wooden barrels, it embodies the conviviality of the 12th arrondissement. Locals often gather here with their own empty bottles to be filled directly from the casks. Depending on the season, especially on winter weekends, you might see crowds gathered on the sidewalk shucking fresh oysters. It provides a perfect snapshot of the 'art de vivre' that defines this gourmet corner of Paris, where high-quality wine and simple food are accessible to everyone.

Le marché couvert Beauvau

Step into the Marché couvert Beauvau, the covered section of the Aligre Market. Built in 1843, its stunning wooden roof structure resembles an inverted ship's hull. This market is a paradise for food lovers. Inside, you will find permanent stalls specializing in regional French cheeses, high-end charcuterie, and specialty poultry. The atmosphere is traditional and focused on quality. Outside the hall, the energy shifts as the open-air market takes over the square, featuring vocal vendors selling seasonal produce and a small flea market where you can hunt for vintage books or kitchenware. Please note that market stalls and vendors may vary by day and season.

Coulée Verte René-Dumont

Conclude your neighborhood stroll by climbing the stairs to the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, also known as the Promenade Plantée. This elevated park was built on top of the same viaduct you saw earlier. It was the world's first elevated parkway, predating New York's High Line by nearly 20 years. Walking along this lush, linear garden provides a unique perspective on the city, as you are level with the ornate balconies and rooftops of Parisian apartment buildings. It is a peaceful escape from the bustle of the Aligre Market below, offering a mix of wild vegetation and manicured rose gardens that stretches toward the eastern edge of the city.

Frequently Asked Questions