Parc de Belleville, relaxation, leisure and panoramic views over the capital

Discover Parc de Belleville, a lush green oasis nestled in the heart of Paris’s 20th arrondissement, where nature and culture blend harmoniously. This iconic park, created in 1988, offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle while revealing breathtaking panoramas of the capital. Whether you're seeking relaxation, leisure, or discovery, the park will captivate you with its authentic charm and multifaceted appeal.

Just a short stroll from the famous Ménilmontant district, Parc de Belleville spans 4.5 hectares, making it one of the arrondissement’s largest green spaces. Located at 47 Rue des Couronnes, it’s perfectly positioned for a visit after exploring the charming alleys of Belleville, renowned for their bohemian atmosphere and rich artistic history.

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Location and Access: an easily reachable park

Getting to Parc de Belleville is a breeze, thanks to the many transport options available. The nearest metro stations are Couronnes (line 2) and Pyrénées (line 11), both within a 10-minute walk. If you prefer buses, lines 20, 26, and 96 also serve the area. Cyclists will find bike lanes and Vélib’ stations nearby, while drivers can park on nearby streets.

Once there, you’ll be immediately charmed by the park’s peaceful ambiance, which contrasts with the vibrant energy of the 20th arrondissement. Its main entrance on Rue des Couronnes greets you with a stunning view of Paris’s rooftops, inviting you to wander from the very first step.

The Park’s Name: a tribute to local history

The name Belleville traces its roots to medieval Paris. Originally, this area was an independent village known as Belleville-sur-Sablon, named after its sand quarries. The term "Belleville" may also evoke the beauty of the landscapes that once surrounded it, with its hills and vineyards. Today, Parc de Belleville keeps this viticultural tradition alive with its own vineyard—a nod to the neighborhood’s rural heritage.

Over the centuries, Belleville has become a hub of social and cultural diversity, attracting artists, workers, and immigrants. The park, created much later, embodies this inclusivity by offering a space where all Parisians and visitors can come together, regardless of their origins.

History: a park born of urban vision

The Parc de Belleville is the result of an ambitious urban project launched in the 1980s. At the time, the City of Paris sought to create green spaces in districts with fewer parks, to improve residents' quality of life. Inaugurated in 1988, the park was designed by landscape architect François Brun, who skillfully utilized the natural slope of the terrain to create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.

One of the park’s unique features is its open-air theatre, an amphitheatre where performances, concerts, and film screenings take place during the summer season. This cultural venue enhances the park’s role as a lively gathering place, far beyond its simple function as a public garden.

Description: a park of many faces

The Parc de Belleville stands out for its diverse spaces, each offering a unique experience. From the entrance, you’ll be greeted by a grand avenue of plane trees, leading to a large lawn perfect for picnics or family games. Children are well catered for, with a play area that is both safe and fun, where they can play freely.

One of the park’s highlights is undoubtedly its belvedere, located 108 meters above sea level. From there, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Paris, with iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Sacré-Cœur, and the Hôtel des Invalides visible on the horizon. It’s the perfect spot to capture your visit with memorable photos.

Nature lovers will delight in discovering the park’s themed gardens, where Mediterranean flora, aromatic plants, and flowerbeds blend together. The Belleville vineyard, planted in 1992, produces a few hundred bottles of wine each year, sold during the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival. A tasting is a must for the curious!

Flora and fauna: a haven of biodiversity

The Parc de Belleville is much more than just a green space: it’s a true refuge for biodiversity. The flora is particularly diverse, with over 1,200 trees and shrubs, including maples, Japanese cherry trees, and magnolias. The flowerbeds, renewed with the seasons, attract a multitude of pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, helping to preserve the urban ecosystem.

In terms of fauna, the park is home to numerous bird species, including tits, blackbirds, and even kestrels, which nest in the heights of the neighborhood. The red squirrels, meanwhile, bring life to the pathways with their acrobatics, much to the delight of visitors. Nest boxes and feeders have been installed to encourage their presence, making the park an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts.

For botany enthusiasts, informational panels are scattered throughout the park, providing explanations about the different plant species and their role in the ecosystem. An initiative that raises awareness among young and old about environmental protection.

Why visit Parc de Belleville?

The Parc de Belleville is much more than just a garden: it is a place where nature, culture, and history blend together, all within an enchanting setting. Whether you're looking for a moment of relaxation, a romantic stroll, or a family outing, this park will meet all your expectations. Its belvedere offers one of the most beautiful views of Paris, while its green spaces and facilities make it a lively place to visit year-round.

Moreover, its location in the 20th arrondissement, a dynamic and multicultural neighborhood, makes it a must-visit during your stay in Paris. After a walk in the park, be sure to explore the surrounding streets, where you’ll find trendy cafés, art galleries, and restaurants offering cuisine from around the world.

Finally, the Parc de Belleville is a place where you feel good, where you breathe and take the time to live. Whether you're a Parisian or a tourist, it will offer you a unique experience, between escapism and authenticity. So, ready to discover this hidden gem of the capital?

For more information on events held in the park, visit the official website of the City of Paris.