The 10th arrondissement is a district in the North of Paris, on the Seine right bank. It was gradually built on the ‘faubourgs’, which were integrated with the demographic expansion. The Porte St Denis and Porte St Martin are remnants of the old city limits. As a legacy of this past, the district retains a strong cultural mix and a working-class feel. It is very popular with young people, lively, festive and trendy with many restaurants and bars. This why it was the target of the terrible terrorist attacks of 13 November 2015.
Here are a few useful tips for a successful day out with friends in the 10th arrondissement!
A morning day with friends in the 10th…
To get your day off to a good start in the 10th arrondissement, head to République of Coffee for an abundant, healthy breakfast in a very Californian/neon-wave setting. You will enjoy gigantic pancakes and eggs in all shapes and sizes, accompanied by a freshly squeezed juice or sweet matcha.
At 2 boulevard St Martin.
Take a stroll around the now famous Place de la République. It is so named because of the statue at its centre representing the Republic in triumph. This name led to it becoming the preferred venue for various demonstrations. In 2015, for example, it played host to the popular ‘Je suis Charlie’ movement.
Go up rue du Faubourg du Temple and turn left at the junction with avenue Parmentier. Then turn onto avenue Claude Vellefaux. Come to the magnificent old building of Hôpital Saint Louis, the oldest branch of which dates back to the 17th century. Hidden within it is an unusual Musée des Moulages. Since the unfortunate closure of the Musée Dupuytren, the hospital has housed the Faculty of Medicine’s incredible collections of anatomical waxworks. Sensitive souls please!
PLEASE NOTE: the museum is only accessible by appointment by email or telephone, Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm.
At 14 avenue Claude Vellefaux.
Then, to regain your strength, enjoy a colourful lunch at Levantine. The most delicious roasted vegetables in Paris, accompanied by inventive houmous, surrounded by oriental curtains and cushions.
At 36 rue Bichat.
An afternoon in the 10th arrondissement…
Enjoy a pleasant digestive stroll along the waters of the Canal Saint Martin. Its charming locks and small bridges, comparable to the banks of Amsterdam, were the setting for Marcel Carné’s Hôtel du Nord (1938), starring Louis Jouvet and Arletty.
For film fans, the Potemkine Boutique is a must. Books, DVDs, posters, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for. Its owners regularly organise meetings with personalities from the world of cinema (directors, actors, critics, etc.) Take a look around.
At 30 rue Beaurepaire.
Then, for entertainment and relaxation, head to the cosy Meisia games bar. They have over a thousand different games to try out.
At 84 rue René Boulanger.
If you’re a fan of comic strips, take a look at the small but highly reputed Galerie Martel (which has hosted magnificent exhibitions by big names such as Emil Ferris, Daniel Clowes, Guido Crepax, Brecht Evens, Chris Ware, Art Spiegelmann, Thomas Ott…).
Coming up from 15 May to 27 July 2025: Adrian Tomine, chronicler of the intimate through graphic novels.
At 17 rue Martel.
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of rue du Faubourg Saint Denis. Have a mug in one of the trendy bars (Le Cadran, Le Mauri’7) or in the cosy setting of the Cour des Petites Ecuries.
An evening with friends in the 10th…
Let yourself be carried away by an Indian dinner in one of the many restaurants of the Passage Brady. This little community island in the heart of the 10th arrondissement is less famous than the other covered passages, but is nevertheless listed for its superb glass roof. The restaurants are as attractive for their prices as they are for their picturesque kitsch.
Access via 43 rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis and 33 boulevard de Strasbourg.
Not far from here, two famous local cinemas, Le Brady and L’Archipel, stand valiantly, their shop windows illuminated at night. Perhaps you’d like to catch a late show?
At 39 boulevard de Strasbourg and 17 boulevard de Strasbourg respectively.
Finally, to round off this day with friends in the 10th arrondissement, how about a nightcap at the Comptoir Général? This vast and extraordinary venue emulates the tropical atmosphere of colonial counters. Both original and classic cocktails are served, and there’s even dancing after a certain hour…
At 84 quai de Jemmapes.
A little tip for night owls: the rue du Faubourg du Temple is home to legendary clubs such as La Java (located in a listed former Palais du Commerce) and Le Gibus, both of which have an electro programme. After a good dance, Zorba and Moka, two after-hours bars, are the last open very late at night… or even very early in the morning (Thursday to Sunday between 5am and midday)!
Enjoy your visit!
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