Thing to do
Palais Garnier Visit
Self-guided or guided visits of Charles Garnier's opulent 1875 opera house, including the grand staircase, the Grand Foyer and Chagall's auditorium ceiling.
Coulée verte René-Dumont
A 4.7 km planted walkway on a former railway line, running east from near Bastille along the top of the Viaduc des Arts.
At a glance
- Type
- Elevated park walk
- Area
- 12th arrondissement, Paris, France
- Official site
- paris.fr
- Last checked
- October 23, 2026
Good to know
- Free
- Elevated walkway
- Lifts at some access points
Why we recommend it
Opened in 1993 on a disused railway line, the Coulée verte René-Dumont was one of the world's first elevated parks. Starting just east of the Opéra Bastille, it runs along the top of the Viaduc des Arts, whose arches below house craft workshops, before continuing through gardens and tunnels towards the edge of the city.
The raised section near Bastille is the most rewarding stretch, with views into apartment windows and over the rooftops of the 12th arrondissement. Walk it in the morning, then drop down to browse the workshops under the viaduct. Opening times change through the year, so check the City of Paris page, which also lists which lifts are working.
Reviewed by Lifestylemetro · Details checked October 23, 2026
Coulée verte René-Dumont FAQs
How long is it?
About 4.7 km from near Bastille to the eastern edge of the city.
Is it always open?
No, it follows seasonal park hours set by the City of Paris and can close in storms.