The 20th arrondissement is one of the less visited districts of Paris. Despite there being a number of enjoyable attractions and plenty to explore for hours, it’s still a good idea to visit this part of the city. But what sights are worth seeing? What shouldn’t you miss when you’re in this arrondissement? And which hotels can you book if you want to stay here for a few days? The following information lays it all out for you.
Here’s what you need to know about the 20th arrondissement
Ménilmontant is the 20th arrondissement of Paris. It’s a place where you’ll mainly encounter the city’s largest cemetery. Many famous residents are buried here. Additionally, you’ll see the old village character of La Campagne à Paris and Charonne in this part of the city. Just for these reasons alone, you should have visited at least once, as it’s truly a sight to behold. Particularly for music lovers, it’s a place not to be forgotten, and you can spend hours wandering around. The arrondissement will surely capture your heart.
Tip: Check out our free walking routes in the 20th arrondissement in Paris! (In Dutch)
The attractions in the 20th arrondissement in Paris
Visiting the 20th arrondissement is worthwhile. There are several sights and places in this part of Paris that you can visit and marvel at. Below are some examples of these attractions.
Père Lachaise
Père Lachaise was established in 1803, on the orders of Napoleon. It’s a cemetery where many famous people are buried, including Jim Morrison, Simone Signoret, Balzac, and Fréderic Chopin. It’s not just about the French; people from all over the world want to be buried here. A visit to this cemetery can be likened to a pilgrimage site. It’s the place to be for devoted fans of older musicians. Additionally, you’ll be amazed by all the flowers and other accessories left at the tombstones. Furthermore, there are many regular visitors, in the form of street cats. You’ll undoubtedly encounter them as you walk around the cemetery.
Book your tickets for Père Lachaise here in advance!
Le Mur des Fédérés
Le Mur des Fédérés is also located in the cemetery. It’s a memorial site where many members of the Commune were shot during the Commune. The bullet holes are still visible in the wall. In addition to the monument, you’ll also find the grave of Adolphe Thiers on top of Père Lachaise. On May 28th and 29th, a commemoration ceremony is held here, marking the horrific acts committed here.
Victimes Revolutions
Victimes Revolutions is hidden in the Jardin Samuel-de-Champlain park. It’s a wall against the outer wall of the cemetery and was built in honor of Mr. Champlain, who founded Quebec in Canada in 1608. The monument has been at this location since 1909 and is a memorial to the victims of the revolution. This wall is often confused with Le Mur des Fédérés, although it involves a different event. You can take a moment here to reflect and see who is being commemorated here, before relaxing in the park.
La Campagne à Paris
La Campagne à Paris resembles a working-class neighborhood in England. It’s a working-class neighborhood on the outskirts of Paris and consists of more than ninety single-family homes. Here, you’ll find a concrete staircase with wood relief on Rue Geo Chavez. You can climb the 80 steps, which will take you to the neighborhood. Here, you’ll find, among other things, the statue of Edith Piaf, which looks like a bronze sculpture. The statue of Lisbeth Delisle is also in this area. Additionally, you’ll marvel at all the houses built here. They’re all designed by different architects, making each one unique. You can also grab a drink at one of the cafes in the neighborhood before moving on to other attractions.
Stay at one of these hotels in the 20th arrondissement in Paris
In the 20th arrondissement, you can spend hours exploring the parks, the residential areas themselves, or the cemetery. Therefore, it’s best to book a hotel in this arrondissement so you can quickly get everywhere. But where should you stay? Below are some examples of hotels.
Novotel Suites Paris Montreuil Vincennes
Novotel Suites Paris Montreuil Vincennes is located in the east of Paris, an 8-minute walk from Porte de Montreuil metro station. This metro station will take you not only to various attractions in the area but also to Disneyland Paris or the Champs-Élysées. The hotel consists of multiple suites, all equipped with a TV, air conditioning, microwave, and refrigerator. Every morning, there’s a breakfast buffet, and the reception is open 24 hours a day. Note that you can only park your car at the nearby parking lot for an additional fee. Major airports and stations are also nearby.
You can read more information about the hotel here.
Hipotel Paris Belgrand
Hipotel Paris Belgrand is close to the cemetery and the flea markets. It’s a budget hotel that gives you access to various parts of Paris. The rooms are equipped with a good bathroom, a TV, and a comfortable bed. Every morning, you can enjoy breakfast in the hotel’s dining room. The reception is available 24 hours a day and can help you find your way around the area. Porte de Bagnolet metro station is 75 meters from the hotel, where you’ll find lines to many attractions in the city. This way, you can be at the Eiffel Tower within minutes.
You can read more information about the hotel here.
Ménil Bon Temps
Ménil Bon Temps is a charming hotel located in the heart of the 20th arrondissement. It’s 2.7 kilometers from Opéra Bastille and 5 kilometers from Sainte-Chapelle. The hotel offers a range of facilities, including a restaurant, a shared lounge, and a 24-hour front desk. You can also find family rooms here, allowing you to sleep together with your entire family. The rooms themselves are equipped with a desk and a well-appointed bathroom. With a bit of luck, you’ll have a room with a view of the city. Every morning, you can enjoy a continental breakfast or breakfast buffet, which you can also enjoy on the terrace.