The 13th arrondissement of Paris, better known as Gobelins, is centered around Place d’Italie. However, there are many more attractions to be found here, including museums, hospitals, and various buildings that exude a lot of history. It’s worth visiting this arrondissement at least once in your lifetime. You’ll want to know which attractions you shouldn’t miss. So, what is there to find? And where are the best places to stay during your visit to the city? The following attractions and accommodations will give you a good overview.
The History of the 13th Arrondissement Gobelins in Paris
The 13th arrondissement is nicknamed Gobelins, which comes from the district’s history. From the beginning, this area has been home to tapestry manufacturers. The various weaving workshops were consolidated starting in 1661, soon leading to multiple workplaces where the so-called Gobelins, which are still available for purchase, were produced. Besides the factories, you can also find squares, the hospital, and the city’s largest library here. These buildings also have their own histories, which are apparent when you visit the attractions.
Tip: Discover our free walking routes through the 13th arrondissement of Paris!
Attractions in the 13th Arrondissement in Paris
There’s a lot to experience in the 13th arrondissement. With a wealth of attractions, you can learn about history and find complete relaxation. The following attractions should be on your list when you stay in this arrondissement:
1. Manufacture Royale des Gobelins
Manufacture Royale des Gobelins is the tapestry factory founded in 1601 by Henry IV to reduce the high costs of importing from abroad. In 1662, Louis XIV purchased the dye house from Philibert Gobelin, enabling the tapestries to be dyed directly. For centuries, it was the factory where the well-known tapestries were developed. Today, it is no longer a factory, but a place you can visit to see the looms where the tapestries are woven. Various workshops are also available.
2. Place d’Italie
Place d’Italie, named after the Avenue d’Italie on which it lies, was established in 1860 and is part of Route Nationale 7, one of France’s longest national roads leading to the Italian border. Until the 19th century, a gate that was part of the Mur des Fermiers Généraux stood here. Today, the square hosts various restaurants, hotels, bars, shops, and cinemas. It’s a place where you can relax and also pick up a few souvenirs. You can also find the town hall here.
3. Sainte Anne de la Butte aux Cailles
For those interested in visiting churches, Sainte Anne de la Butte aux Cailles is worthwhile. It’s a Catholic parish church that was built to replace a wooden church that stood until 1847. After the growth of the community, this church was constructed following an idea by Napoleon III, who did not live to see its completion. The money for the towers was donated by the Lombart family. After visiting the church, you can stop by one of the nearby bakeries or chocolate shops.
4. Bibliothèque Nationale de France
Even if you’re not a book lover, a visit to the Bibliothèque Nationale de France is worth it. It’s one of the largest libraries, housing more than 13 million books and 350,000 newspaper articles. Architect Dominique Perrault was commissioned to design it in 1989, and the construction was completed in 1996. The building covers 60,000 square meters, with a 12,000-square-meter park in the center. The different towers are named after the collections they house, and you can spend hours exploring. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, this library will surprise you again.
The Best Places to Stay in the 13th Arrondissement in Paris
If you’re planning to visit the 13th arrondissement, you’ll need a good place to stay. The following accommodations are some of the best you can find in the arrondissement:
1. Hotel Inn Design Paris Place d’Italie
Hotel Inn Design Paris Place d’Italie is located in the heart of the 13th arrondissement, making it an excellent base for visiting the sights you’re interested in. The hotel features stylish decor with a music theme, and you can enjoy air conditioning. Each bathroom includes a bath and a hairdryer, and you can start each day with an American breakfast buffet. The hotel also has its own bar, which you can enjoy in the evenings. Just 200 meters away is a metro station that can take you to other arrondissements.
Read more about the hotel here.
2. Amiral Hôtel
Amiral Hôtel is located just a minute from the Tolbiac metro station, which can take you to places like the Louvre. However, the hotel itself is also worth your time. It offers luxuriously furnished rooms, a lounge bar for enjoying drinks, and an indoor swimming pool. An continental breakfast is served each morning, setting you up for a day of exploring the arrondissement. You can also walk to several restaurants and bars within 10 minutes, and Place d’Italie is just 700 meters away. Keep in mind that parking here is not free.
Read more about the hotel here.
3. Citadines Austerlitz Paris
Citadines Austerlitz Paris is located between the Latin Quarter and the famous library, and is just a 3-minute walk from the Campo Formio metro station and 10 minutes from Gare d’Austerlitz. The building houses 20 apartments, each equipped with a fully equipped kitchen and a private bathroom. In the morning, enjoy the finest breakfast in the breakfast room, while in the evening, you decide what to cook for yourself. The private parking and laundry facilities provide plenty of conveniences, letting you fill your vacation however you envision it.