The 11th arrondissement is a key part of Paris’s political history. Since the 18th century it has been the scene of various revolutions that have shaken the city.
Today, it has become a quiet, friendly, and family-friendly neighborhood. Bustling with small bars and restaurants, the evening scene is very lively. Sadly, it was one of the targets of the November 13, 2015, attacks, including the Bataclan concert hall.
Here are some tips for planning a successful day out for the whole family in the 11th arrondissement.
A morning together in the 11th arrondissement…
To start this family day in the 11th arrondissement off right, start with a hearty brunch at Pain Quotidien. This trendy, organic, and healthy Belgian franchise is located on a charming, low-rise street with very little traffic. Its rustic, wood-paneled restaurant feels like a village hangout.
At 24 rue de Charonne.
Open between 10 and 11 a.m., here are some shops that might attract your little ones:
- The BDnet bookstore is very well stocked, at 26 rue de Charonne;
- There are plenty of manga shops in the Roquette district! You’ll find both new and used books, figurines and merchandise, as well as cosplay costumes. Manga Dori at 22 rue Keller, Manga Fantaisies at 27 rue Keller, Manga Toys at 11 rue Keller, MCBD at 17 rue des Taillandiers;
- Between these stores, you’ll also find the various facades of L’Indien Boutique, the oldest alternative and rock clothing retailer in Paris. They offer band t-shirts, jewelry, patches, merchandise… for your rebellious teenagers! At 30 rue Keller.
Then, head back up to Place de la Bastille, where the Bastille prison, destroyed during the Revolution, once stood. At its center is the July Column, topped by the Genius of Liberty, erected by Louis-Philippe in homage to the July Revolutionary Days. It was built over a necropolis containing the bodies of the combatants.
Opposite is the Opéra Bastille, an impressive modern building constructed by Carlos Ott for the bicentenary of the Revolution.
(There is a backstage tour of the Opéra, but with very limited access: Saturdays only at 5 p.m., in French, ages 8 and up, and by reservation.)
An cozy afternoon strolling…
Continue your familiy day by walking and strolling down to the Port de l’Arsenal, a former cargo port now a marina. Look out for the moored barges along the quays. Why not have a picnic on its green lawns if the weather is nice?
If the weather isn’t good, challenge your family to see who can eat the most sushi at the all-you-can-eat Japanese restaurant, Sushi Club. The fun and entertaining ordering system (small grid and pen in hand) operates on a fixed price, allowing you to continue round after round until you’re full!
Note: For those who aren’t fans of fish, there are always meat skewers, noodles, and breaded vegetables.
At 5 rue de Lappe.
Embark on a superb immersive tour of the Atelier des Lumières, located in the former Chemin-Vert foundry. Thanks to moving digital projections in a 1,500m² room, the whole family will experience art in 360°! After celebrating the works of Van Gogh and Klimt, the Little Prince is currently taking center stage within these walls. Children and parents alike will be amazed.
At 38 rue Saint Maur.
Then treat yourself to a well-deserved rest in Square Maurice Gardette. While the children have fun in the central playground, take the time to enjoy a drink on the terrace of one of the many bars with eccentric names (Le Barré, Bonjour Ivresse) on the pedestrian street of General Renault.
Next, pass the beautiful 19th-century Saint-Ambroise Church.
At 71 bis Boulevard Voltaire.
A family evening in the 11th arrondissement…
Starting at 5 p.m., the excellent little theater A la Folie offers shows for children (ages 2 to 12) every day during school holidays, and on Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays the rest of the year.
Don’t hesitate to check out the program for adults, which often features literary classics (such as Maupassant or Sartre). It might be perfect for your teenagers preparing for their baccalaureate!
At 6 rue de la Folie Méricourt.
Because there’s no season for eating raclette… The best way to end a family day in the 11th arrondissement! Satisfy your whole group by opting for a 100% cheese dinner at Les Fondus de la Raclette, in a warm setting. Laughter and cheese-filled treats guaranteed!
At 107 avenue Parmentier.
Finally, if the kids are in bed, or if you’re allowing the teens a little extra, head to Le BAP, a huge beer bar with numerous pool tables, foosball tables, and darts.
At 111 rue Saint Maur.
For more ideas in Paris you can check A day out with friends in the Latin Quarter of Paris or a day out in the Marais !
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