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The Most Beautiful Pedestrian Streets of Paris
Paris is a pedestrian’s city through and through. Even the busiest of intersections will have space for people traveling on foot to get from one side to the other; you’ll never forget your first time walking through a Parisian roundabout during rush hour — thrilling!
There aren’t many streets in Paris that would qualify as an eyesore, but there are some that go above and beyond what most would imagine a modern city to look like. Here are some great walking spots as you explore the city on foot — take your time on each of them, there is always something new to see and appreciate.
Where to walk in Paris without traffic
rue des Rosiers in Paris
The rue des Rosiers is a very well known street in terms of Parisian infrastructure; if you ever encounter a taxi driver who claims to not know where it is, he’s lying and probably trying to rack up your meter.
Situated in the heart of the 4th arrondissement, the rue des Rosiers feels like you’re strolling through an old French film. Most of this road is cobblestoned, and it’s lined with Haussmann architecture that now boasts some fabulous shopping at ground level.
rue des Rosiers in Paris – by ninara – Wikimedia Commons
Here you’ll eat wonderful street food, including the city’s best falafel.
Click here for the best night walks to do in Paris
Pont Neuf in Paris
Okay, so this isn’t technically a street per say, but the Pont Neuf is one of the most important pedestrian crossings in a all of Paris.
You’ll find this walking bridge in the city center, at the western tip of the Ile de la Cité. It’s the oldest bridge in Paris, and was constructed way back in 1607.
Pont Neuf in Paris – by Nicolas Vigier – Wikimedia Commons
Strolling across this old stone structure is a delight, to say the least. The views are worthy of a cinematography award on their own, not to mention the Seine River running underfoot that little extra “je ne sais quoi”.
More facts about Pont Neuf in Paris
rue Crémieux in Paris
At first glance, Paris looks very monotoned and uniform. The beige and grey buildings blend into a very aesthetically pleasing infrastructure filled with whimsey and charm. But Paris can be colorful too!
Don’t believe me? Head to the rue Crémieux in the city’s 12th arrondissement. This small cobblestone street is lined with terrace homes that are painted in an array of bright hues, closely depicting the famous Nottinghill area of London.
rue Crémieux in Paris – by Mu – Wikimedia Commons
A lot of tourists come to see this famous strip, but the residents have become overwhelmed with the amount of picture taking and general invasion of privacy. Be conscientious when you visit here.
rue Saint-Rustique in Paris
Walking any street in Montmartre feels like a dream, but some roads are older than others here, and date back to times when motor vehicles were merely a blimp in the universe.
The rue Saint-Rustique is the oldest pedestrian walkway in all of Paris. It marks the start of residential infrastructure in this neighborhood back in the early 16th century. To preserve the walkable nature of the road, the strip has been closed to cars since 1973.
rue Saint-Rustique in Paris – by Moonik – Wikimedia Commons
Bask in the cafe terraces that line this inclined gem, and marvel at the Sacre Coeur that greets you atop the hill.
For the perfect walking route through Montmartre, click here!
rue De La Huchette in Paris
For some, Paris means booze, brawls and jazz. The rue De La Huchette is known as the old town “jazzy” street of the French capital, and a stroll down this history-filled avenue is a must for anyone looking to experience this side of the city.
If streets could talk, this one would have some stories to tell. International guests have been visiting this neck of the woods since the turn of the century, leaving their mark on the city as we know it.
rue De La Huchette in Paris – by Ana Paula Hirama – Wikimedia Commons
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself being lured into an underground dance party, or a wine cellar that houses a jazz bar.
Click here for a complete guide to jazz culture in Paris
Square de Montsouris in Paris
It’s called a square, but it’s really a street; a gorgeous one, at that.
In my opinion, the Square de Montsouris is the most picturesque road in the city, offering a glimpse into a Paris that is often forgotten thanks to the gentrification of most of the capital.
Here, nature still grows wildly up the buildings and into the homes. The road is barely wide enough to fit a vehicle one way, but somehow the locals make do and drive in both directions.
This street is very close to the Paris Catacombes, so you could consider combining them during a day out.
Avenue Rapp in Paris
If you want to feel like you’ve fallen headfirst into Alice’s Wonderland, or a Tim Burton film, find the Avenue Rapp in the very post neighborhood that is the 7th arrondissement.
The street is known for exhibiting some of the best examples of Art Nouveau architecture in all of Paris. More than this, there is a small public square that is an absolute hidden gem — the view of the Eiffel Tower will take your breath away.
Avenue Rapp in Paris – by Visions of Domino – Wikimedia Commons
This is the perfect walking spot for a midnight stroll with a lover, or even on your own. This part of town is very safe and ideal for solo female travelers to soak up the evening air.
