If you like to party and drink with friends, then you’re bound to have been to the 11ᵉ arrondissement of Paris. But this district isn’t just known for its lively bars in Bastille or Oberkampf. It’s also a formidable cultural basin, where you’ll find immersive museums and art galleries. Here’s a quick roundup of what not to miss!
Take in the Atelier des Lumières: a foundry converted into a temple of art
If you’re passing through the 11ᵉ arrondissement, we urge you to visit Atelier des Lumières at least once. This immersive museum literally immerses you in the works of artists, and lets you discover their world like no other museum. Currently on the program, Planète Préhistorique : Dinosaures, inspired by the Apple TV series of the same name, presents life-size dinosaurs, all projected in 360 degrees onto the walls and floor of the former foundry, in a journey narrated by the voice of Gérard Lanvin and punctuated by a soundtrack composed by Hans Zimmer. In short, you’re in for a real treat. A museum to visit as a couple, with friends or with your children!
📍Location: Atelier des Lumières, 38 Rue Saint-Maur, 75011 Paris
A virtual reality experience aboard the Titanic
Are you a VR fan who thinks you’ve seen everything there is to know about virtual reality? Not a chance! In the 11th arrondissement (10 Place de la République), you’ll find an immersive experience that impresses with its realistic visuals! Titanic: a journey through time takes you back in time, from 1912 to the Belle Époque, aboard the largest ocean liner ever built. Wearing a helmet, explore the wreck, then the Grand Staircase, meet the crew and passengers and relive the highlights of the RMS Titanic.
📍Location: 10 Place de la République, 75011 Paris
Enjoy the fine weather in Square Maurice Gardette, the green lung of the 11th arrondissement.
This pretty square in the 11thᵉ arrondissement hasn’t always had the peacefulness that characterized it in the past… Built on the site of a former abattoir, it owes its name to a resistance fighter who was shot during the Second World War. Today, it’s a favorite spot for local residents to enjoy a spot of greenery and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
📍 Location: 2 rue du Général Blaise 75011 Paris
Dine under the stars at Stellar, Ephemera’s immersive restaurant
This unusual restaurant literally sends you to Mars. Eternal astronauts of the planet Gastronomie, put on your spacesuit and let’s go for an absolutely lunar culinary expedition. The immersive Stellar restaurant from Ephemera (Under The Sea, Jungle Palace) takes your taste buds to another planet. On the menu: your choice of Space Discovery or Intergalactic Voyage. Ready for take-off?
📍Location: Stellar, 45 rue Saint-Sébastien, 75011 Paris
Stroll around Place de la Nation: the nerve center of the 11th arrondissement
Formerly the “Place du Trône” in the time of King Louis XIV, the Place de la Nation is one of the symbols of the French Republic. Famous for having housed one of the guillotines most used during the French Revolution, it is now a favorite meeting place for onlookers. Indeed, its long lawns are ideal for strolling or picnicking, and its many benches invite you to relax. Grab a book, read and take your time!
📍Location: Place de la Nation, 75011 Paris
Take a stroll in the bucolic Cour Damoye
Visit Cour Damoye is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered! Nestled in the heart of the Bastille district, this green setting takes us back to the Paris of yesteryear. Picturesque and charming, it’s home to old craftsmen’s stores, stalls and art galleries. A unique and relaxing place to explore this weekend!
📍Location: Access via 12, place de la Bastille and 12, rue Daval, 75011 Paris
Eat in one of the restaurants on rue de Charonne, a foodie’s paradise
Well-known to food lovers, rue de Charonne is full of great restaurants to try out. One example is Septime, a restaurant with an epicurean spirit, where you can sample a 7-step menu in the evening, with wine pairings. Please note: you’ll certainly have to be patient before you get a seat, as the restaurant is often swamped with reservations.
📍Location: 80 rue de Charonne, 75011 Paris
Visit the Magnum Gallery photo gallery in the 11th arrondissement free of charge
Untitled, Women are Beautiful, 1967 / © Estate of Garry Winogrand
Do you like photography? What if we told you that you could visit a free gallery entirely dedicated to this art form? Go to the Magnum gallery, where you’ll find a wealth of beautiful images.
📍Location: 68 Rue Léon Frot, 75011 Paris