Explore the vibrant Bastille neighborhood of Paris with this guide that focuses on cultural landmarks, shopping, food markets, and nightlife.
- See the Colonne de Juillet, Symbol of Revolutions
- Admire the Bastille Opera (and Take a Guided Tour)
- Browse Boutiques & Shops on Rue de Charonne
- Taste Local Produce at a Nearby Food Market
- Stroll on an Above-Ground Promenade
- Eat Delicious Chocolate at Alain Ducasse
- Sip Cocktails at a Secret “Speakeasy” Bar
- Go Dancing at a Local Club, from Latin to Hip-Hop
The area around the Place de la Bastille is one of Paris’ most exciting and diverse neighborhoods. It is a prime spot for nightlife, featuring both long-standing dance clubs and trendy new “speakeasy”-style cocktail bars. Moreover, it offers plenty for those interested in history, art, and urban architecture: revolutionary monuments, leafy parks with stunning views, and local street art are just a few attractions. Food markets and quirky boutiques abound, making this neighborhood a must-explore destination. Exit at the Bastille metro stop, cross the sprawling square, and immerse yourself in the attractions we recommend below. It’s a bustling, vibrant area that will expand your understanding and appreciation of Paris.
See the Colonne de Juillet, Symbol of Revolutions
Address: Pl. de la Bastille, 75004 Paris, France
A visit to this area warrants a quick look at the imposing Colonne de Juillet, which stands at the heart of Place de la Bastille. The “July Column” was erected in July 1840 to commemorate the revolutionary war known as “Les Trois Glorieuses,” which brought French King Louis-Philippe to power after a bloody conflict. The golden statue, referred to as the “Spirit of Liberty,” crowns the column.
The site holds additional significance in revolutionary history. It is also the former site of the infamous Bastille Prison, set aflame by revolutionaries in 1789, symbolizing the upheaval of that era. Furthermore, the column narrowly avoided destruction during the Paris Commune revolt in 1871. Visit this site to appreciate the depth of France’s revolutionary past.
Admire the Bastille Opera (and Take a Guided Tour)
Address: Pl. de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France
The sleek steel and glass structure that dominates the Place de la Bastille is home to the National Opera, an important landmark for art and architecture enthusiasts. Designed by Carlos Ott and inaugurated in 1989, the Opera Bastille is worth admiring both inside and out.
If you have some time, consider taking a guided tour of the theatre and the backstage area to marvel at its intricate design, which enhances acoustic consistency and sound quality. Opera fans might also explore options for attending a performance featuring works from Verdi to Mozart, as the opera season provides diverse offerings for music lovers.
Browse Boutiques & Shops on Rue de Charonne
If you’re in a shopping mood, head east from Place de la Bastille to Rue de Charonne, where you can browse some of the neighborhood’s best boutiques.
This trendy street features up-and-coming designers offering a variety of men’s and women’s clothing and accessories. You’ll come across home design and jewelry shops, art bookstores, vintage record stores, and artisan workshops, creating a vibrant shopping environment, complemented by trendy cafés and terraces.
Notable stops include Repetto (20 rue de Charonne), renowned for its ballet shoes and fashionable women’s footwear; Patate Records (57 rue de Charonne), a quirky shop for vinyl enthusiasts; and Sessun (34 rue de Charonne), a concept store that showcases artisan jewelry and local design objects.
Taste Local Produce at a Nearby Food Market
The Bastille area is a prime location for sampling delicious local produce and traditional French delicacies. The bustling open-air food market on Boulevard Richard-Lenoir operates twice weekly (Thursday and Sunday from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.), while the Marché d’Aligre is a beloved local market just a short walk away.
Known as one of the city’s finest markets, it comprises an open-air strip along Rue d’Aligre, lined with reputable bakeries, butchers, cheesemakers, and wine bars, as well as a covered section called Marché Beauvau. Both markets feature vendors selling fresh produce, cheeses, flowers, fish, breads, and other delightful goods that are a feast for the eyes and palate. Visitors can easily access the market from either the Bastille or Ledru-Rollin Metro stops.
Opening Times: The open-air market operates from Tuesday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and on Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The Marché Beauvau is open Tuesday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., as well as on Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Stroll on an Above-Ground Promenade
Address: 1 Coulée Verte René-Dumont, 75012 Paris, France
Little-known to tourists, the Promenade Plantée (or “planted stroll”) is a one-mile path built above a former railway, adorned with colorful flowers and plants. This initiative created the world’s first above-ground park, providing unique views of Parisian rooftops and architectural features, perfect for a leisurely walk.
Enter from dedicated stairways located just a few feet to the right of the Bastille Opera house on Rue de Lyon. Amble through charming green trellises, admire street art, appreciate statues on the elegant buildings surrounding the path, and take a break for a picnic on the expansive lawns of the Jardin de Reuilly.
Eat Delicious Chocolate at Alain Ducasse
Address: 40 Rue de la Roquette, 75011 Paris, France
Phone: +33 1 48 05 82 86
World-renowned French chef Alain Ducasse is also a master chocolatier, creating everything from crunchy pralines to silky ganaches and rich dark chocolate bars in his boutiques throughout the city. If you find yourself craving gourmet sweets after a meal or a long walk, make sure to visit this delightful shop on Rue de la Roquette, which is also perfect for gift shopping.
Sip Cocktails at a Secret “Speakeasy” Bar
Address: 5 Rue Sedaine, 75011 Paris, France
Phone: +33 9 50 73 12 99
The Bastille area excels in nightlife, which includes unique backroom speakeasy-style cocktail bars. Moonshiner is a cozy spot with vintage décor, soft lighting, and expert bartenders crafting creative cocktails alongside a curated selection of whiskies and other libations. Access the bar through the Da Vito pizzeria on Rue de Sedaine, or enjoy a pizza before heading to the bar for a nightcap.
Go Dancing at a Local Club, from Latin to Hip-Hop
Lastly, if you are up for it, enjoy an exhilarating night out near Bastille. The area offers numerous bars and dance clubs and is recognized as one of the top locales for nightlife in the city.
With so many options, consider checking out La Balajo (9 rue de Lappe) for Latin dancing, salsa, and Cuban music nights, or visit Le Red House (1 bis, rue de la Forge Royale) for an eclectic bar and club experience where DJs spin an array of music, from hip-hop to indie rock.
