Parc de Belleville Paris: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Attractions Guide
Date: 14/06/2025
Introduction: Discovering Parc de Belleville
Perched atop one of Paris’s highest natural points in the 20th arrondissement, Parc de Belleville is a captivating urban oasis where panoramic city views, layered history, and vibrant cultural diversity converge. Spanning approximately 4.5 hectares, the park offers terraced gardens, a cascading fountain, and a small vineyard that pays homage to Belleville’s viticultural roots. Once a rural village celebrated for its vineyards and lively guinguettes, Belleville was annexed by Paris in 1860 and has since become a dynamic neighborhood marked by waves of immigration and artistic innovation. Parc de Belleville reflects this rich tapestry, serving as a gathering place for families, artists, and visitors seeking both leisure and cultural inspiration.
Whether you’re drawn by the neighborhood’s renowned street art, intrigued by its revolutionary past, or simply looking for a scenic spot to relax, Parc de Belleville is a must-visit destination. For the latest information on opening hours, events, and travel tips, consult official resources such as Paris.fr and Paris Info.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Visiting Information
- Historical Background
- Park Layout and Attractions
- Visitor Tips and Safety
- Nearby Attractions and Food
- FAQs
- Conclusion and Call to Action
- References
Visiting Information
Opening Hours and Admission
Parc de Belleville is open daily, typically from 7:30 AM until dusk, with variations depending on the season. In summer, closing extends to around 9:30 PM, and in winter, the park may close as early as 6:00–8:30 PM. Entry is always free; no tickets are required (Paris.fr).
Accessibility
The park’s terraced and hillside design offers both ramps and stairways. Main entrances on Rue Piat and Rue des Couronnes are the most accessible for visitors with limited mobility or strollers. Some upper terraces and play areas are only reachable by stairs, so those with mobility concerns should use the lower entrances (Paris Insiders Guide).
Getting There
Located at 47 Rue des Couronnes, 75020 Paris, the park is easily reached by public transport:
- Metro: Belleville (Lines 2 & 11), Pyrénées (Line 11), Couronnes (Line 2), and Ménilmontant (Line 2)—all within a 5–10 minute walk.
- Bus: Lines 20, 26, 60, and 96 serve the area.
- Airport Access: Taxis from Charles de Gaulle or Orly take 30–45 minutes; public transport via Gare du Nord and Metro Line 2 takes approximately 50–60 minutes (Salut from Paris; Breathing Travel).
Parking is very limited; public transport is strongly recommended.
Guided Tours and Events
While there are no official guided tours operated by the park, several local walking tours include Parc de Belleville as part of broader explorations of the Belleville neighborhood’s history and street art. The park also hosts open-air concerts, cinema nights, and the annual grape harvest festival (TripSavvy; Paris Info).
Historical Background
Belleville began as a rural village famed for its vineyards and lively guinguettes—rustic taverns where Parisians enjoyed wine and music. In 1860, the village was annexed into Paris, soon becoming a hub for working-class residents and immigrants. The area is notable for its rebellious spirit, especially during the Paris Commune of 1871. Belleville’s multicultural history is reflected today in its diverse community and vibrant cultural life (TripSavvy).
Parc de Belleville was created on the site of an old gypsum quarry and opened in 1988, designed to echo the hill’s natural contours and celebrate the area’s layered history. The park’s vineyard and community gardens pay homage to Belleville’s agricultural past, while its open lawns and public art celebrate its modern, pluralistic identity (Paris.fr).
Park Layout and Attractions
Terraces and Pathways
The park’s winding, multi-level terraces maximize its hillside location, offering a series of lawns, gardens, and lookout points connected by gently sloping paths and staircases. Benches, shaded areas, and water features are interspersed throughout for relaxation and exploration (Paris Insiders Guide).
Central Cascade Fountain
A signature feature is the 100-meter-long cascading fountain that flows down the park’s central axis, providing a cooling effect in summer and a lively backdrop for gatherings and photography (Paris Info).
Belvedere and Panoramic Views
At the highest point near Rue Piat, the Belvédère offers one of Paris’s most spectacular panoramic views, encompassing the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Cœur, and much of the city skyline. Orientation tables help identify landmarks, and sunset is a particularly popular time to visit (Salut from Paris).
Gardens, Vineyards, and Nature
The park is home to over 1,200 trees and shrubs, vibrant seasonal flowerbeds, and a small vineyard producing a symbolic annual grape harvest. Educational signage highlights local flora and sustainable gardening practices (Sortir à Paris; Guide Tourism).
Children’s Play Areas and Sports
Multiple playgrounds, including a large wooden climbing structure and Paris’s longest slide, make Parc de Belleville especially family-friendly. There are also multi-sport courts, ping-pong tables, and open lawns for recreation (Paris Insiders Guide).
Maison de l’Air and Street Art
Near the summit, the Maison de l’Air eco-museum offers interactive exhibits on air quality and the environment (Maison de l’Air). The park and surrounding streets are an open-air gallery, featuring ever-changing street art, murals, and mosaics that reflect Belleville’s creative spirit (Salut from Paris).
Visitor Tips and Safety
- Best Times to Visit: Spring and early autumn for pleasant weather and vibrant foliage; evenings for sunset views.
- Picnicking: Bring a blanket and snacks—open lawns allow for relaxed picnics.
- Safety: The park is generally safe, but as in any urban area, remain aware of your belongings, especially during crowded events. Politely decline any unsolicited offers from street vendors (Salut from Paris).
- Pets: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed.
- Facilities: Drinking fountains, public restrooms, and picnic tables are available near main entrances.
Nearby Attractions and Food
- Rue Denoyez: Renowned for its vibrant street art (Breathing Travel).
- Café Aux Folies & Café Chérie: Classic Parisian cafés, popular for coffee or apéritifs.
- Marché Belleville: Open-air market with multicultural food offerings (Tuesdays & Fridays).
- Père Lachaise Cemetery: World-famous cemetery within walking distance.
- Parc des Buttes-Chaumont: Another scenic park, known for its dramatic landscaping.
- La Mer à Boire: Hilltop bar with panoramic views (Breathing Travel).
- Nearby bakeries and eateries: Along Rue de Belleville and Rue de la Villette, offering everything from pastries to international cuisine.
FAQs
Is there an entry fee to Parc de Belleville?
No, entry is free.
What are the opening hours?
Open daily from around 7:30 AM until dusk (8:00–10:00 PM in summer, earlier in winter).
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, if leashed.
Is the park accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Main paths are accessible, but some terraces are only reachable by stairs.
Are guided tours available?
No official tours, but local guides and neighborhood tours often include the park.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Parc de Belleville is a Parisian gem, blending panoramic cityscapes, lush gardens, local history, and vibrant community life. Its free admission, accessibility, and wealth of attractions make it a top choice for travelers and locals alike. Whether you’re planning a picnic, exploring street art, or enjoying a sunset over the city, Parc de Belleville offers an authentic and unforgettable Paris experience.
For up-to-date information, events, and insider tips, download the Audiala app and follow us on social media. Discover more of Paris’s hidden treasures by exploring our related guides.
References including official websites and credible sources for Parc de Belleville Paris
- Parc de Belleville Official Site – Paris.fr
- Parc de Belleville on Paris Info
- TripSavvy: Belleville Neighborhood in Paris
- Salut from Paris: Parc de Belleville Guide
- Breathing Travel: Hip Guide to Belleville, Paris
- Paris Insiders Guide: Parc de Belleville
- Sortir à Paris: Parc de Belleville
- Maison de l’Air – Paris.fr
- Guide Tourism: Parc de Belleville