If you're looking for a totally different side to Paris, look no further than its 13th arrondissement. It's not an exaggeration to say that there's simply no other place quite like it in the city. From its unique look to what you can do around here, expect the unexpected when you visit or even move to this arrondissement. Sure, most of the French capital's arrondissements have their own exciting things to offer, but the 13th one really takes the cake when it comes to standing out and offering memorable sights and experiences. And that's a fact!
The French National Library
While reading in Paris quite often means going for a quiet afternoon in a
charming café, here in the 13th arrondissement, it's a bit different. Okay, it's a lot different! This isn't to say you can't read in a café in this part of the city, far from it! The 13th arrondissement still has its fair share of them that are perfect for
a peaceful coffee break. It's just that most locals—and a good number of tourists too—would rather read in the
French National Library instead. An entire mecca for classic literature and modern texts, you can spend an entire day reading here and it'd all be worth it!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The City's Chinatown
Every major city has its own Chinatown! Paris is no exception! And while those in other cities are more famous, the one here in the French capital is pretty noteworthy itself. A congregation of Chinese, Cambodian, and Vietnamese communities, it's a totally different side to Paris that you, literally, will not see anywhere else. Sure, there are a few Chinese temples or Vietnamese restaurants in other arrondissements, but the ones here in Chinatown are as authentic as they can get. Not to mention they celebrate various Chinese traditions here as well, particularly the festivals which will often be quite the sights to see!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Butte aux Cailles District
Another district in Paris worth seeing in the 13th arrondissement? The Butte aux Cailles District. It's like a town within a city, showing off its own identity with its Art Deco-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and
numerous art galleries worth taking a peek into. More than just an
underrated tourist attraction you have to visit, but the peace here makes it a great option for you to settle down in as well. Wouldn't you want to reside in a very artistic corner of Paris? One that's not so stereotypical at that! And with so many art galleries and museums around, it's safe to say it's a pretty social part of the city as well!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Modern Designs Around
When you think of Paris, you probably think of classic architecture, don't you? It's fine! Most of the French capital is made up of Rococo buildings, baroque churches, pre-war residences, and the like. But here in the 13th arrondissement, you'll appreciate seeing some structures that pretty much look like they belong in the 21st century! The Passerelle Simone de Beauvoir, a very modern-looking bridge, is definitely one of them. Almost looking like a giant avant grade art installation, it's one of the best places to stroll to in this part of the city. Meanwhile, the glowing
Cité de la Mode et du Design, is truly a sight to behold!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Swim Along The River Seine
As cool as Paris is during autumn and winter, it gets pretty hot when summer arrives. So much so that you'd just want to jump into the River Seine to cool off a bit. But that's not exactly legal, to say the least. What you can do instead, however, is to dive into the
Piscine Joséphine Baker. Named after the legendary American dancer and Parisienne icon, this is a floating swimming pool that's docked right on the famous river. Though it's open year-round, the best time to go here is during the latter parts of Spring. When the temperature is rising up but it's not that hot yet that this pool will be overcrowded.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
A Freelancer’s Corner in Paris
Let's go back to Cité de la Mode et du Design for a second. Why? Because there's more to this place than just its very modern design. It's not only a
fashion school in Paris, but it's also one of
the city's best co-working spaces, albeit unofficially. The place wasn't necessarily built specifically to become the latter, but many locals have used it as such in recent years. It helps that it's a very open and communal spot, particularly the rooftop space and the many studios and workshops around. That, paired with the French National Library (where you can also work) makes the 13th arrondissement quite the freelancer’s corner in Paris, right?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Never underestimate the underrated arrondissements of Paris! Particularly the 13th! Though it's an unlucky number, this place is perhaps one of the most fascinating and definitely the most unique corners of the French capital. Best believe you won't see anything like it!
And if you didn't know yet, the 13th arrondissement has its own fair share of
luxury rentals as well! They'd be great for your home here!
