Looking for an off-the-beaten-path cultural getaway in Paris? Head for the 19ᵉ arrondissement. For a change from the traditional Buttes-Chaumont or the secretive Butte Bergeyre, we introduce you to another green setting: the Parc de La Villette. With its 15 themed gardens and 3 km of walks, it’s the ideal option for families to visit, as it combines nature, art and science. We explain why it’s THE perfect destination for any self-respecting insider, and give you the keys to enjoying all the excitement of this neighborhood of well-kept secrets.
La Villette: a hybrid third-place perfect for families
La Villette isn’t just a park: it’s an open-air cultural space that combines gardens, contemporary architecture, canals, grand halls and museums. With walks along the Canal de l’Ourcq, picnic benches, children’s play areas and quiet corners to stroll around, it’s a bucolic haven in the heart of Paris. But above all: it’s a first-rate cultural venue. Concerts, exhibitions, shows, art installations, workshops… there really is something for everyone.
The must-see nuggets
- Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (CSI): a must-see for young and old alike, with its science museum, planetarium, Argonaute submarine, cinema-dome and areas dedicated to children and teenagers. A fun and educational experience perfect for a rainy afternoon, or simply to quench your thirst for learning.
- La Géode: this silver sphere, emblematic of the Paris skyline, is a small jewel of architecture and visual audacity. Did you know? The dome conceals an immersive cinema.
- Grande Halle de la Villette: a flagship venue for the performing arts and contemporary culture, it hosts exhibitions, circus shows, festivals, concerts… The programming transforms the site into a veritable artistic playground.
- At the Philharmonie de Paris / Cité de la musique, music in all its forms – classical, contemporary, jazz, world music – gives the park an incredible arty dimension.
- And let’s not forget the famous Zénith Paris – La Villette, whose program is punctuated by unmissable events. In January, for example, this iconic venue will be hosting HEXAGONE MMA, a tournament of spectacular fights in a supercharged atmosphere.
Three not-to-be-missed experiences at La Villette right now
Light Cycles: a sparkling nocturnal journey through nature, light and sound
This winter, the park is transformed by an immersive journey combining digital art and nature, sound and light, designed by international multimedia studio Moment Factory. The experience takes the form of a five-stage stroll, punctuated by outdoor installations that bring the trees to life, transform the paths and create an enchanting world for the festive season. Suitable for all ages, the concept is perfect for solo, duo or family outings. Easily accessible from the Porte de Pantin, Corentin Cariou or Porte de la Villette metro stations, the show lasts around 45 min, is open to all, and lets you (re)discover La Villette in a new light.
La Villette Christmas market
During the festive season, La Villette takes on a Swiss village feel with its Christmas market, directly inspired by the one in Zurich. With its Giant Ferris Wheel, gourmet chalets including a Zurich fondue, designer stalls (renewed every week), carousel and a program ofcreative workshops and shows, this is THE Christmas market to try out at the moment, for a friendly atmosphere for young and old alike who want to immerse themselves in the Swiss holiday spirit without leaving Paris. Tip: a €5 ticket is required to enter the market. You can choose between two options: an online ticket, which includes a drink (mulled wine, hot chocolate, beer or house wine or soft drink) and access to the queue, or a ticket purchased on site, which includes a drink only.Admission to the market is free on Mondays and Tuesdays all day, and from Wednesday to Friday until 5pm.
A guided cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin, from the Musée d’Orsay to the Parc de La Villette
See Paris differently! Experience the thrill of a picturesque cruise along the Canal Saint-Martin (departing from the Musée d’Orsay) to the Parc de la Villette. Contemplate the capital’s emblematic monuments and soak up the district’s romantic atmosphere. In short, the Parc de la Villette is like a Parisian secret shared by word-of-mouth among insiders. Whether you’re looking for a breath of fresh air, or a different kindof cultural outing , there’s always a good reason to go.
Practical information
📅O pening times: The park is open all year round, 7 days a week.
🚇Access: Metro line 5 (Porte de Pantin) or line 7 (Porte de la Villette / Corentin Cariou) + streetcar or bus depending on your point of departure.
💸Price: 5 euros (drinks included + ticket-cutting access for tickets bought online), free on Mondays, Tuesdays all day and Wednesdays until 5pm only