10th Arrondissement , Paris guide

Many travellers pass through this lively district on the banks of the River Seine, home to two of the city’s largest train stations in Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est. But our ultimate 10th Arrondissement travel guide shows you why you should stick around. From lazy strolls along the Canal Saint-Martin to bustling markets and historic hotels, see why it’s worth getting off the tourist track in one of Paris’ most exciting neighbourhoods.

10th Arrondissement highlights

Canal culture

One of the best things about the 10th Arrondissement is its location along the Canal Saint-Martin. Lined with waterfront cafes and colourful storefronts, it’s the ideal spot for afternoon strolls, picnics and after-dinner drinks at its trendy bars. If you’re a film fan, stop by the Hôtel du Nord, which was made famous by the 1938 French movie of the same name.

Market days

There’s no better way to get a taste of the 10th Arrondissement than by visiting its markets. The 19th-century Marché couvert Saint-Quentin is Paris’ largest covered market, offering a rainbow of fresh produce and artisan food. And the Marché couvert Saint-Martin near Place de la République is home to organic produce sellers, small eateries and international grocery stores.

Historic corners

You’ll discover history at every turn in the 10th Arrondissement. The Porte Saint-Martin arch and Place de la République are two of the area’s most famous landmarks. Completed in 1844, the Church of Saint-Vincent-de-Paul features stained glass and gilded interiors. Don’t miss visiting the 17th-century Hôpital Saint-Louis, whose enclosed garden is often compared to the Marais district’s Place des Vosges.

Things to do in 10th Arrondissement

Events

In spring, the 10th Arrondissement holds the annual Printemps des Rues festival, a celebration of street art, with live theatre, puppetry, dance, circus and musical performances. And in late summer, join Paris’ Hindu community in celebrating the Fête de Ganesh with parades, dancers and musicians around the 10th and 18th Arrondissements.

Shopping

Look for boutiques and fashion outlet stores along Rue de Marseille and independent designers on Rue Beaurepaire. Rue de Lancry houses a collection of well-stocked specialist food stores. And on Rue des Vinaigriers, vintage shops rub shoulders with old-school bookshops, artisan retailers and quirky boutiques. For a scenic afternoon, make a beeline for Quai de Valmy and its colourful canalside storefronts.

Nightlife

Some of the city’s best watering holes are in the 10th Arrondissement, from cocktail bars to speakeasies and DJ-helmed clubs. Hoping to catch some live music? Head to La Java, where Edith Piaf and Django Reinhardt once played. If you prefer a bit of bar-hopping, Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis has plenty of late-night spots to keep good times flowing after dark.

Restaurants

You’ll find a steady supply of international eateries, bakeries and streetside cafes here. Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis is famous for its Turkish restaurants. And Passage Brady — known as ‘Little India’ — is renowned for its Indo-Pakistani and Mauritian cuisine. In the mood for French classics? Go to Bouillon Julien, dating back to 1906, with its chic Art Nouveau decor.

Museums and culture

Book lovers will want to visit the Françoise Sagan Library, which has a calendar of cultural events and a courtyard garden. And Le Louxor Palais du Cinéma is one of Paris’ oldest movie palaces, dating back to 1921. Itching for something different? At the Hôpital Saint-Louis, you’ll find the Musée des Moulages, home to nearly 5,000 wax models of dermatological diseases.

Family-friendly things to do

Feed your sweet tooth at Choco-Story Paris Musée du Chocolat, a chocolate-themed museum offering cocoa history, chocolatier demos and children’s tours. All ages love watching boats navigate Canal Saint-Martin’s famous ‘Écluse des Récollets’ (Recollets lock). On sunny days, head to Jardin Villemin for its picnic spots and playground.

FAQs about 10th Arrondissement holidays

Paris’ 10th Arrondissement is a year-round travel destination. To make the most of the Canal Saint-Martin’s waterside and outdoor cafes, plan to visit during the warmer months of spring and summer. Be aware that if you’re visiting on a Sunday, some shops in the area may be closed.
The 10th Arrondissement is one of Paris’ more affordable neighbourhoods, making it a great choice for those travelling on a budget. It’s less touristy than other areas, so you’ll find reasonably priced restaurants and bars, as well as fresh food markets and bakeries where you can pick up quick, cheap bites to eat.
Paris’ 10th Arrondissement is known for its two major train stations, canal and lively bar culture. Built during the 19th century, it’s a neighbourhood packed with history and culture, including monuments, theatres and multicultural shops.