27 Beautiful Streets In Paris You Just Have To Stroll

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Paris streets are an adventure unto their own. From iconic leafy boulevards to narrow, ancient laneways, the streets in Paris France are an explorer’s dream. Meandering along Paris streets, with a keen sense of curiosity, it’s not difficult to spy one treasure after another. 

Maybe it’s the details carved on a façade. Possibly cascading blooms frame an archway. Or the liveliness of a corner café that exudes the soul of Paris. Perhaps it is the way the silvery light falls across a cobblestone street.

These 27 Paris streets include a selection of famous Paris streets, prettiest of Paris streets, tiny cobbled lanes, and lively streets! Saunter to your heart’s content, solo, with a travel partner or a loved one. Rent a Velib bicycle to visit these streets of Paris, but don’t get it stolen as I did!

27 Best Streets In Paris

1. Paris 1 | Pont Neuf

In the heart of Paris’s 1st arrondissement, at the western tip of Ile de la Cité, lies Pont Neuf. While named “New Bridge,” Pont Neuf is the oldest stone bridge in Paris hailing from 1607. Five arches reach out from Ile de la Cité to the Left Bank while 7 arches stretch across to the Right Bank. This famous Paris street is not only a delight to stroll across, passing the statue of King Henri IV who inaugurated the bridge, but pop down to the Seine River and examine the faces looking back at you!

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Pont Neuf (line 7)

2. Paris Streets 2eme | Galerie Vivienne

Including a covered passageway when sharing the best streets to walk in Paris is a must. Stroll along the gorgeous mosaic floors of Galerie Vivienne and transport yourself, for a moment, back to 1823  when this covered passageway was filled with Parisians socializing and meeting up at cafés. With natural light streaming along the hallway of Galerie Vivienne, the boutiques, stores and cafés are worth exploring or, at the very least, engaging in a window-shopping expedition. If it’s a chilly or rainy day, this famous Paris street is your go-to destination.

Paris Streets, Getting To Galerie Vivienne:

Métro: Bourse (line 3), Pyramides (line 7 + 14)

3. The 2nd Arrondissement | rue Montorgeuil

One of the most famous market streets of Paris, rue Montorgeuil, is a feast for the senses as you stroll from one end to the other. Little shops and lively cafés line the street making it the perfect Paris street to browse and at the same time to sample great French food. One of the highlights on rue Montorgeuil is the Baba Rhum at Stohrer, the oldest pâtisserie in Paris. Stand before the stunning façade at Au Rocher de Cancale knowing that it has been open since 1804! Better still stop by for lunch or dinner!

Rue Montorgeuil is one of the best streets to walk in Paris giving you that village feel in a busy city!

Paris Streets, Getting To rue Montorgeuil:

Métro: Sentier (line 3), Châtelet-les-Halles (line 4)

4. The 3rd Arrondissement | rue du Pont aux Choux

The third arrondissement, the Haut-Marais, is a tangle of streets in Paris and quite frankly I get turned around all the time in this quartier. But that is one of the delights of walking in Paris 3. Make a wrong turn down one of these prettiest of Paris streets and there is guaranteed to be a new discovery, which is exactly how I stumbled upon the “Boot Café” a few years ago!

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Filles du Calvaire (line 8)

5. Paris Streets | rue de Braque

Rue de Braque is a lovely, quiet street in the 3rd arrondissement of Paris. It is full of hôtels particuliers (mansions) with splendid façades and gorgeous door knockers. At the corner of rue de Braque and rue des Archives is Hôtel de Clisson with its soaring turret. Try your luck and see if the doorway to number 5 rue de Braque is open. Hiding behind #5 is a 17th-century half-timbered house.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue de Braque:

Métro: Rambuteau Rue de Braque is very close to the National Archives and also the Picasso Museum

6. The 4th Arrondissement | rue des Rosiers

The Street of the Rosebushes in the Marais is one of the most famous streets in Paris. The heart of Jewish life in Paris for centuries, this Parisian street is lively and full of boutiques and restaurants. It is one of the best walking streets in Paris to experience a bustling village feel. A huge draw for tourists are the shops and the famous L’As du Fallafel where one can reputedly eat the best falafel in Europe! Stop by the eclectic Le Loir Dans La Théière for a piece of towering lemon meringue pie! Don’t miss the delightful and slightly tucked away rue des Rosiers – Joseph Migneret Garden.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue des Rosiers:

Métro: Saint Paul (line 1)

7. Pont Saint-Louis In The 4th Arrondissment

If you are looking for magic in Paris, then Pont Saint-Louis is your place. This footbridge connecting the small island to the larger Ile de la Cité is a poetic medley of musicians and street artists. To feel the strains of music played atop the flowing Seine River is to be connected to Paris. This is definitely one of the best streets to walk in Paris.

Tip: Wander the entire island of Ile Saint-Louis, explore more Paris streets, and take a little breather at Place Louis Aragon.

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Pont-Marie (line 7), Cité (line 4) If you are coming from Ile de la Cité walk behind Notre Dame Cathedral to find Pont Saint-Louis

8. Paris Streets 5eme | rue Mouffetard

Plan to walk along this Parisian street on a Sunday when the service at église Saint-Médard ends. As the parishioners flood out of the rustic church, sit at the corner café, watch dancers spin to live music and know that this is as local an experience as it gets.

Then stroll along one of the oldest market streets of Paris, hailing from Roman times. Given its lifespan, rue Mouffetard has a long and intriguing history but today it is lined with grocers, butchers, cheese shops, cafés and crêperies. Take note of the lovely façade, designed by Italian painter Eldi Gueri, across from église Saint-Médard.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue Mouffetard:

Métro: Censier-Daubenton (line 7) at the south end by the church, Place Monge (line 7)

9. The 6th Arrondissement Of Paris | rue Férou

What’s not to like about a street in Paris where the main attraction is poetry? On this Parisian street in the 6th arrondissement between the Jardin du Luxembourg and Place Saint-Sulpice, elegantly scripted calligraphy presents Arthur Rimbaud’s poem “Le Bateau Ivre.” Serpentine letters backed by golden brick are an invitation to linger and try to understand this gem of French poetry from 1871 about a drunk (sinking) ship. 

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Saint-Sulpice (line 4) and Odéon (lines 4 + 10)

10. rue du Buci In Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Rue du Buci, in the 6th arrondissment of Paris, bumps. If you are looking for a lively street full of cafés and great for people watching, this Parisian street is for you. A short street, rue du Buci is intense! Highlights of rue du Buci include a stop by the Maison Sauvage. Have a glass of wine on the terrace. If there’s too long a line head upstairs. Browse in one of my favourite bookstores, Taschen. There is a great selection of English-language coffee table books here. Join the line at Maison Thevenin for a fabulous pâtisserie or baguette. And don’t miss browsing in Buci News, just around the corner on rue Grégoire de Tours

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Odéon (lines 4 + 10)

11. Paris Streets 7eme | rue de l’Université

There are plenty of Paris streets and vantage points in the 7th arrondissement of Paris where the Iron Lady makes an appearance.  Yes, the Eiffel Tower watches over its beloved city in all its grandeur. I have a few favourite spots but this one is ideal for photographing the Eiffel Tower. Right where rue de l’Université ends (after crossing Avenue de la Bourdonnais) at the Champ de Mars. Up close and personal – there is the perfect Eiffel Tower view.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue de l’Université:

Métro:  La Tour-Maubourg (line 8)

12. The 7th Arrondissement | Avenue Rapp

#29 Avenue Rapp is the highlight of this Paris street. This outstanding example of Art Nouveau architecture in Paris, by Jules Lavirotte, was the winner of the City of Paris façades competition in 1901. True to the Art Nouveau style, it has a flowing form and plenty of floral and vegetal design. It is purely whimsical and a joy to look at while appreciating its intricate details

Just around the corner is another perfect Eiffel Tower view from the 7th arrondissement. Look for Square Rapp where you will find the fabulous view of the Eiffel Tower and another building by Lavirotte at #3.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue de l’Université:

Métro:  La Tour-Maubourg (line 8) or Alma-Marceau

13. The 8th Arrondissement | The Champs-Elysées

The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous streets in Paris. Well-known worldwide, the Champs-Élysées is a perfect blend of luxury and history. Situated in the heart of Paris, this Parisian street is lined with magnificent trees, designer boutiques, and chic cafés. The name “Champs-Élysées” translates to “Elysian Fields” in English, and it’s easy to see why. From the towering Arc de Triomphe at one end to the Place de la Concorde at the other, the boulevard is a haven of beauty, elegance, and grandeur. It’s a must-see destination for anyone visiting Paris, and a walk along the Champs-Élysées is an experience that will leave an indelible impression.

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: To the Arc de Triomphe: Charles de Gaulle-Etoile (line 1, line 2, or RER A); to walk up towards the Arc de Triomphe get off at Champs-Elysées-Clemenceau (line 1)

14. Paris 8 | Boulevard des Courcelles

Boulevard des Courcelles, running between the 8th and the 17th arrondissements, is lined with beautiful Haussmannian buildings and exudes a timeless elegance. Boulevard des Courcelles boasts the stunning Parc Monceau, a magnificent park with ornate bridges, statues, and a picturesque pond. This wide, leafy Parisian street is one to stroll.

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Courcelles (line 2), Monceau (line 2)

15. Paris 9 + 18 | rue des Martyrs

One of my favourite Paris streets is rue des Martyrs. I first heard of rue des Martyrs when I picked up and read The Only Street in Paris: Life on the Rue des Martyrs. Elaine Sciolino’s account of connecting with the local shopkeepers, gaining their trust and piecing together historical stories and facts rang true to my heart. I have a dog-eared copy of the book that I treasure. This is one of the best streets to walk in Paris for an authentic taste of Parisian culture.

At Fromager Chataigner (#3),  Yves and his daughter Anick will guide you in purchasing the most delectable French cheeses. For decades, Yves has served his loyal customers. The poster behind the till was the perfect conversation opener.

Start meandering on rue des Martyrs from Église Notre-Dame-de-Lorette. As with all Paris market streets, allow plenty of time to smell gorgeous bouquets, purchase fresh figs from Africa and admire the sunny lemons from Spain. Stop at one of the bustling bistros or cafés and indulge in a scoop of vegan ice cream. There is even a carousel near Avenue Trudaine.

And why is this Paris street called rue des Martyrs? As legend has it, Saint-Denis, the first Bishop of Paris, was beheaded and carried his head all the way to Montmartre. (Side note: it’s all uphill… ) His statue stands where he is believed to have washed his severed head in one of my favourite Paris squares, Square Suzanne Buisson. Of course, the French dedicated a church to Saint-Denis. The Saint-Denis Basilica north of Paris is where he is buried along with the French monarchs.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue des Martyrs:

Métro: Notre-Dame-de-Lorette (line 12) Walk all the way to Boulevard de Clichy where Pigalle (lines 2 + 12) is located. Cross Boulevard de Clichy (now you will be in Paris18) and the closest station will be Abbesses (line12)

16. The 10th Arrondissement | Quai de Valmy

The streets of Paris by Canal Saint-Martin are lively and full of boutiques and cafés. Strolling Quai de Valmy alongside Canal Saint-Martin, where footbridges arch gracefully over the water and a canopy of greenery provides relief from the midday heat, is the perfect Paris outing. Bring a picnic to this famous street in Paris and swing your legs carelessly over the canal. Cross the bridges and wander down Quai de Jammapes. Bring your skipping stones and fire away just as Amélie does in the delightful French film, Amélie.

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: From the Quai de Valmy side of the Canal: République (lines 3, 5, 8, 9, 11), Jacques Bonsergent (line 5)

17. Paris 11 | rue de Lappe

This Paris street, a narrow cobbled laneway in the 11th arrondissement, is known today for its nightlife. At one point in its history, rue de Lappe was a meeting place for revolutionaries during the French Revolution, was a centre for skilled artisans and eventually became known for its dance halls. Of the 17 dance halls that lined the road before WWII, one still remains today. Le Balajo, which opened in 1936, offers salsa classes, Latino music and a lot of clubbing. Mondays are a little tamer offering “Afternoon Tea.”

Best Walking Streets in Paris Tip:

Rue de Lappe runs between two great shopping streets of Paris. Don’t miss the boutiques where Parisians shop on these popular Paris streets, rue de Charonne and rue de la Roquette.

Don’t miss this hidden Paris street also nearby: Passage l’Homme. It’s a delightful cobbled lane.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue de Lappe:

Métro: Ledru-Rollin (line 8), Bréguet-Sabin (line 5)

18. The 12th Arrondissement | rue Crémieux

Streets in Paris are not usually colourful. But, tucked away amidst quintessential Paris is rue Crémieux. A little taste of London, perhaps Portobello, smack dab in the 12th arrondissement of Paris. This Paris street is not a secret as its lively façades are a popular spot for photographers and it has become an Instagram favourite. Arrive early in the day and you might encounter a resident willing to have a chat! 

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Gare de Lyon (lines 1 + 14), Quai de la Rapée (line5)

19. The 13th Arrondissement | rue de la Butte Aux Cailles

The Butte aux Cailles is a charming neighborhood located in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, known for its unique character and bohemian charm. The Butte aux Cailles has a distinctly village-like atmosphere that offers a delightful mix of historic architecture, street art, and local cafés.

The two main Paris streets of this neighbourhood are rue de la Butte aux Cailles and rue des Cinq Diamants. Where they meet is a perfect place to sit on a terrace and observe the locals greeting each other and sharing a coffee or apéro together. Start your explorations of the Butte aux Cailles here and be delighted by your discoveries.

Paris Streets, Getting To La Butte Aux Cailles:

Métro: Corvisart (line 6)

20. Paris 13 | rue des Glycines

Exploring the triangular area of La Cité Florale, you will be immediately captivated by the stunning blooms paired with delightful Paris street names like rue des Glycines (wisteria) and rue des Volubilis (morning glory). These prettiest streets in Paris are filled with art deco-style homes covered in cascades of ivy, vines and wisteria. Wander these little streets of Paris and embrace the riot of colour and scent.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue des Glycines:

RER: Cité Universitaire

Métro: Maison Blanche (line 7)

21. The 14th Arrondissment | rue des Thermopyles

As the sirens wail behind you, turn your back on rue Raymond Losserand and gaze up this beautiful street in Paris, rue des Thermopyles.

For a moment you might feel as though you have lost your way and ended up in the countryside, again. Perhaps, Provence. For right in the heart of Paris, there is stillness, intense greenery, an overpowering scent of roses and wisteria, and lively pink geraniums dotting the window ledges.  

Wander up this cobbled Paris street and rest a bit in the concealed park. You’ll be the only tourist amongst watchful nannies, giggling toddlers and the snoozing local drunk. It’s the perfect snapshot of everyday Paris.

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Pernety (line 13)

22. Villa d’Alésia

From rue des Thermopyles, Villa d’Alésia, which will always represent classic Paris to me, is a short walk. Amidst the artdeco-style homes and the former atelier of Henri Matisse, my sister and I had one encounter after another with locals. This tranquil cobblestone Parisian street was full of friendly, unassuming Parisians eager to share a tidbit or two about their city. 

Streets in Paris that harbour hidden gardens are a favourite of mine. Head to the top of the street to smell the roses in Square Lionel-Assouad. You’ll be the only tourist in this quiet haven.

Paris Streets, Getting To Villa d’Alésia:

Métro: Alésia (line 4)

23. The 16th Arrondissment | rue Jean de la Fontaine

If you have an eye for detail and architecture, you will love rue Jean de la Fontaine. Of all the streets in Paris, this one will keep your eagle eye busy, especially if you love Art Nouveau architecture.

At #16 is the most whimsical and delightful creation of Hector Guimard, a French architect and designer. Castel Béranger (1895-1898), the first solo project for Hector Guimard, is a masterpiece of the French Art Nouveau style. Ornate details grace the exterior doorways, railings and downspouts. And what about that seafoam green colour? Today Castel Béranger is still a show stopper! Don’t miss this Parisian street!

Best Walking Streets in Paris Tip:

At #60 you will discover another masterpiece by Hector Guimard

Getting To This Paris Street:

RER: Avenue du Président Kennedy- Radio France RER C

Metro Stations: Ranelagh (line 9), Église d’Auteil / Mirabeau ( line 10)

24. The 18th Arrondissement | Villa Léandre  

Haussmann architecture defines Paris, which makes it a fun diversion to discover a tiny Parisian street lined with multicoloured brick homes tucked behind cascading wisteria and roses. You might think for a moment that you’ve been transported to London. Those with an eye for details will spot quirky details on the facades. What about those lingering cats? The ceramic flowers? And the sign at #10? Don’t miss the bronze portrait of humorist Charles Léandre. A delightful cobbled Paris street in Montmartre!

Paris Streets, Getting To Villa Léandre:

Métro: Lamarck-Caulaincourt (line 12)

25. Paris Streets 19eme | La Mouzaïa

Paris streets, or tiny private lanes, are called “villas.” Remember Villa Léandre in Montmartre?

Technically, La Mouzaïa is a neighbourhood. From the main road, Rue de Mouzaïa, little Paris streets or villas, as they are called, are waiting to be explored. Enchanting streetlamps, steep cobbled lanes, small front gardens bursting with blooms and surprising colourful façades add to the charm of the quartier. The silence, overpowering aroma of roses and abundance of Parisian cats lazing in the sun is sure to please. It is a true delight to stroll these streets of Paris.

Getting To This Paris Street:

Métro: Botzaris (line7bis), Danube (line7bis),  and Pre-Saint-Gervais (line 7bis)

26. Paris 20 | Cimetière du Père Lachaise

Strolling along cobbled lanes in Père Lachaise, the largest cemetery in Paris is one way to connect with the soul of the city, for these Paris streets hold history and thousands of personal stories.

What unique gravestone can you discover amongst the average citizen and the greats?  Search for Chopin.  And of course, Jim Morrison’s tombstone is no secret. The resting place of Oscar Wilde, the famous Irish writer, draws women to place a red lipstick kiss on the effigy. End your walk by finding the tombs of Heloise and Abelard, 12th-century lovers whose passionate and tragic love story still resonates today.

Paris Streets, Getting To Père Lachaise Cemetery:

Métro: Père Lachaise (line 2 + 3), Gambetta (line 3 and the southern stop of line 3bis)

Tip: Enter Père Lachaise closest to Gambetta station and end your walk closest to the Père Lachaise station. Your walk will be more downhill going in this direction!

27. The 20th Arrondissement | rue Saint-Blaise

Rue Saint-Blaise, once the backbone of the Charonne village, is a mixture of restored older buildings and ones that have been replaced (um- not as attractive). Go in the spring to this delightful street in Paris and sit in the square under the magnolia trees. Don’t forget to admire the street art.

Paris Streets, Getting To rue Saint-Blaise:

Métro: Porte de Montreuil (line 9)

I hope you enjoy these 27 best streets to walk in Paris as much as I do.

Until next time,

More Travel Info

Walk the most beautiful streets in Paris and enjoy the Paris villages at the same time.

Paris Villages

Montmartre, much like Ile Saint- Louis, feels like a small village. This post on Montmartre leads you to the most popular sites as well as some lesser-known places on the hill.

La Butte aux Cailles, tucked away in the 13th arrondissement, is another place in Paris that has retained its village-like charm. My article on La Butte aux Cailles will lead you to discover some of the area and its visually enticing street art.

Canal Saint-Martin is another place full of small restaurants, boutiques and plenty of character. Stroll the bridges of the canal under the chestnut trees and feel like a true Parisian. All the details on this “bobo” district are in this article on Canal Saint-Martin.

Le Marais is one of the oldest areas of Paris. Once marshland, it is hopping with boutiques, cafés, gorgeous old mansions and museums. Read my full guide to le Marais and also insider Marais tips from a local.

Gastronomy In Paris

If you are looking for food suggestions, read about where to find the best croissants in Paris. There are also plenty of café suggestions for the Marais area in this post: Tips from a Local. And if you are exploring the area around Canal Saint-Martin, here are the best places to stop for a bite or to find the fixings for a picnic.

Travelling to Paris alone? This article on navigating Paris alone is full of tips and tricks for the solo traveller.

This page has all my articles on Paris that will help you plan out your trip, including day trips from Paris. I hope you subscribed to my newsletter to get my free download – An Amazing 2-day Itinerary in Paris.

If you are going further afield in France, make sure to check out my page on France.

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