12th Arrondissement
"The 12th is where Paris breathes, with its vast park and modern edge blending seamlessly with classic Parisian charm."
— Fictional quote attributed to a Parisian urban planner
Overview
The 12th Arrondissement of Paris is known for its blend of residential areas, green spaces, and modern developments. Home to the vast Bois de Vincennes park and the elevated Promenade Plantée, it offers a more spacious and relaxed atmosphere compared to central Paris. The area combines traditional Parisian neighborhoods with contemporary districts like Bercy, creating a diverse and evolving urban landscape.
Unique attributes of the 12th Arrondissement include its abundance of green spaces, the innovative Promenade Plantée (an elevated park built on a former railway line), and the modern Bercy complex with its large arena and ministry buildings. The district also houses the Gare de Lyon, one of Paris's major train stations.
- Green
- Spacious
- Diverse
- Residential
- Modern
Location
The 12th Arrondissement is located on the right bank of the Seine river, in the eastern part of Paris. It extends from the Place de la Bastille in the west to the Bois de Vincennes in the east. View Map
What are the Main Streets of the 12th Arrondissement?
Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine
A historic street known for its furniture makers and antique shops.
Avenue Daumesnil
A major artery running through the arrondissement, partly elevated with the Promenade Plantée above.
Rue de Charenton
A long street connecting Bastille to the eastern parts of the arrondissement.
Boulevard de la Bastille
Runs along the Port de l'Arsenal, linking Bastille to the Seine.
Average Property Prices in the 12th Arrondissement
Reference: Paris Notaires
What is the 12th Arrondissement Most Known For?
The 12th Arrondissement is most well-known for the Bois de Vincennes, Paris's largest public park, and the Promenade Plantée, an elevated linear park. It's also known for the Gare de Lyon with its iconic clock tower, and the modern Bercy area with its arena and park.
What is the General Vibe of the 12th Arrondissement?
The general vibe of the 12th Arrondissement is relaxed and residential, with pockets of activity. It feels spacious and green compared to more central arrondissements. The atmosphere is generally calm, with a mix of families, young professionals, and long-time residents creating a diverse, community-oriented environment.
How Touristy is the 12th Arrondissement?
The 12th Arrondissement is less touristy than central Paris. While areas like Bastille and the Bois de Vincennes attract visitors, much of the arrondissement maintains a local, residential feel. It's more likely to be experienced by travelers passing through Gare de Lyon than as a primary tourist destination.
Is the 12th Arrondissement Safe?
The 12th Arrondissement is generally considered safe. Its residential character and abundance of green spaces contribute to its security. As with any urban area, standard precautions should be taken, especially at night in less populated areas or around the train station. Check out the European Commission’s Quality of Life index to learn more.
What is the Demographic Breakdown of the 12th Arrondissement?
The 12th Arrondissement has a diverse population. It includes a mix of families, young professionals, and long-time residents. The area has seen some gentrification, particularly around Bastille and Aligre, but still maintains a mix of socio-economic groups. The presence of numerous schools and family-friendly amenities makes it popular with households with children.
Accessibility
How Accessible is the 12th Arrondissement?
Metro Lines
Served by metro lines 1, 6, 8, and 14, providing good access to other parts of Paris.
RER
RER A and D lines stop at Gare de Lyon.
Train Station
Gare de Lyon connects Paris to the southeast of France and beyond.
Bus
Numerous bus lines serve the arrondissement.
Walkability
Generally walkable, with many amenities within walking distance in local neighborhoods.
Cycling
Good cycling infrastructure, including the Promenade Plantée.
Connectivity
Excellent public transport connections to other parts of Paris and beyond.
Amenities
Wide range of shops, supermarkets, pharmacies, and other necessities throughout the arrondissement.
Hospitals
The Hôpital Saint-Antoine is located on the border with the 11th arrondissement.
The 12th Arrondissement LifestyleLocal Favorites
Experience The 12th Arrondissement like a local. Dine, shop and play at some of our favorite hot spots around Paris.
The Pros and Cons of Living in the 12th Arrondissement
12th Arrondissement Homes For Sale
The Newest Listings
Be the first to see the latest home listings in the 12th Arrondissement.
FIND YOUR PLACE
Social Cookies
Social Cookies are used to enable you to share pages and content you find interesting throughout the website through third-party social networking or other websites (including, potentially for advertising purposes related to social networking).