An Insider’s Guide to the Best of Paris’ 10th Arrondissement

Last Updated on 1st March 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

One of the first arrondissements that many visitors enter into when visiting the French capital is the 10th arrondissement due to the fact that it is home to two of Paris’ busiest and most popular train stations, Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in the 10th arrondissement, as well as what you should know before visiting.

Where is the 10th arrondissement?

The 10th arrondissement is one of 20 districts of Paris and can be found to the North of the Seine. This area of the city is known as the ‘rive droite’ (right bank), though the 10th itself doesn’t touch the River Seine. The district is sandwiched between the 2nd, 9th, 11th,18th (Montmartre), and 19th arrondissements.

What is the 10th arrondissement known for?

The 10th arrondissement is best-known for two reasons; the first is that the area is home to two of Paris’ most frequented train stations, while the other is that the 10th boasts Canal Saint Martin, a trendy and hip area where all of the locals hang out.

Best things to do in the 10th arrondissement

Canal Saint Martin

Hands down, the best of the 10th arrondissement is found in the form of Canal Saint Martin, a 19th-century canal that’s lined with bars, independent boutiques, and restaurants.

The Canal was originally commissioned by Napoleon I in 1802 to not only increase the amount of freshwater available to the population but to also provide water for fountains and street cleaning.

Today, the area is the perfect spot to enjoy a sunny afternoon or even enjoy the autumn leaves come the fall. Thanks to its abundance of bars, it’s also the perfect spot to head to for a drink with friends. For even more inspiration, be sure to check out our complete Canal Saint Martin guide.

Marché couvert Saint-Quentin

Foodie lovers who are looking for an indoor activity in the 10th arrondissement should be sure to check out the covered market of Saint Quentin. The historic market hall is located between Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est and has plenty of different food cuisine stalls.

Gare du Nord

Gare du Nord is one of the most important train stations in Paris and is the first place that visitors to the city will visit if they head to the city centre via public transport from the Charles de Gaulle airport. As such, the train station in the 10e has been used as the backdrop for many a film and TV show over the years, including Gossip Girl’s Paris episodes.

Place de la République

One of the most important squares in the 10th arrondissement is Place de La République, a pedestrian dominated space that borders the 3rd and 11th arrondissements. The square is presided over by a larger than life sized statue of Marianne, who is the embodiment of France.

Porte Saint-Denis

One of the coolest aspects of the 10th is the number of unique and unusual architectural features that can be spied by simply spending a few hours wandering around the district and allowing your feet to take you where they may.

One of my personal favourite spots to visit is the Porte Saint-Denis, which is located on the site of one of the gates of the Wall of Charles V, which was one of Paris’ old city walls. The current archway on site is one of four Triumphal Arches in Paris and was constructed in the latter half of the 17th-century.

Mairie du 10e arrondissement

Many visitors to Paris don’t know this, but in addition to the main town hall of Paris (Hôtel de Ville in the Le Marais district of the city), each of Paris’ arrondissements have their own town halls. The nearest metro stations to the Mairie du 10e arrondissement are those of Château d’Eau and Jacques Bonsergent.

The public entryway to the building can be found at Rue du Faubourg-Saint-Martin no. 72, and it’s a rather grand entrance if ever you saw one… All intricate architectural details and imposing steps, once you’re inside the details only get finer. The town hall is open at various times of the year and I personally got a peek inside thanks to a free art installation exhibition.

Gare de l’Est Christmas Market

If you happen to be visiting Paris in December, then one of the more unusual Christmas Markets in Paris takes place directly in front of Gare de l’Est. Le Marché de Noël en Alsace à Paris (Alsace Christmas Market in Paris) takes place during the month of December and is foodie-focused around products which originate from the East of France.

Cour des Petites Écuries

Across Paris, there are little pockets of calm that are like little villages in of their own right. One of these is the Cour des Petites Écuries. The name of the court is quite literally translated as ‘the courtyard of the little stables’ and heralds back to a time when Paris ran on horsepower. 

Following the industrialisation of Paris, the street was transformed into a delightful residential area with four-storey buildings and a wide selection of pubs, bars, and restaurants. Today, the little pocket of calm is easily one of the best places to get a drink with friends or even a small bite to eat.

Where to eat and drink in the 10th district of Paris

BMK Paris-Bamako

One of my most recent discoveries when it comes to delicious foodie locations in the 10th arrondissement is BMK Paris-Bamako. This cosy restaurant serves a variety of dishes from different countries in Africa. They also have some incredibly tasty vegan bowls. I would recommend reserving a table in advance as seats fill up fast.

Piccola Toscana

Those looking for delicious Italian food would do well to head to Piccola Toscana, which is located on a little green square close to the metro station of Poissonière. In the summer months, the Italian eatery even has a small terrace where you can sit outside in the sun.

There are a number of delicious pastas on the menu, as well as several other Italian classics. I particularly enjoyed the gorgonzola gnocchi. The menu changes on a regular basis and there are also Italian wines à la carte.

Holybelly

Brunch served at Holybelly is traditional American style; large portions, cooked English full breakfasts, and delicious coffee. Another item on the menu which is particularly recommended by everyone who visits are the fluffy pancakes.

A visit during the weekend is especially recommended on account of the fact that the weekend menu changes on a weekly basis, meaning that no two visits are the same.

It’s worth noting that Holybelly is walk in only and doesn’t take reservations so be sure to arrive earlier rather than later so as to secure a dining spot! All in all, Holybelly is easily one of the best brunch spots in Paris.

Du Pain et des Idées

Those looking for one of the best bakeries in Paris need to look no further than the delightful Du Pain et des Idées, which is situated just a stone’s throw away from the Canal Saint Martin. This immensely popular Parisian bakery is so sought after, that they only need to open between Monday and Friday.

Du Pain et des Idées (literally translated into English as ‘Bread and Ideas’) was founded by Christophe Vasseur close to two decades ago as an artisan boulangerie serving up traditional breadstuffs with some unique twists. While there, be sure to purchase the ‘escargot,’ a viennoiserie which is so-called thanks to its circular shape. 

Bulliz

Good food and drink is never too far away when you’re in the 10e arrondissement. Those with a sweet tooth should be sure to note down the name ‘Bulliz’.

After all, this is one of the best places to buy choux pastry in Paris. If you do go, then be sure to sample their classic salted caramel flavour- it’s one of the best you’ll ever taste!

Le Comptoir Général

Situated behind a nondescript doorway along the Canal Saint Martin and open ’til late each evening, Le Comptoir General is like no other Parisian bar you’ve ever been to.

Inside you’ll find great music, an eclectic museum, and even better cocktails. I don’t really want to ruin the surprise, so you should probably go for yourself!

Where to stay in the 10th arrondissement

Thanks to its fairly central location, the 10th arrondissement is a great choice in which to base yourself while visiting Paris. Here are some of the best places to stay based on web-reviews and location:

Budget- Generator Paris: This chic and hip hostel is actually part of a chain which can be found all over Europe. Amenities include baggage storage, free Wi-Fi, and a 24 hour front desk. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range- Le Citizen Hotel: Enviably located alongside the trendy Canal Saint-Martin, this small (there are only a dozen rooms) three-star hotel boasts highlights such as tea and coffee facilities, while some rooms have their own landmark view. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury- Renaissance Paris Republique Hotel: For an unforgettable stay in the 10th arrondissement, you’ll want to check yourself into this five-star hotel which is located just off of Republique (i.e. close to a number of metro lines.) Amenities include a spa, 24/7 front desk, and a fitness centre. Check prices and availability here.

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Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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