Paris, the City of Light, is known for its stunning landmarks, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine.
But beyond the glittering Eiffel Tower and quaint Montmartre, street art thrives on the city’s walls.
And in Paris, street art is much more than just scrawls on a wall.
From political statements to whimsical characters, street art in Paris reflects the heartbeat of the city’s neighborhoods, the country’s changing stories, and captures the city’s soul.
So in this guide, we’ll explore where to see the best street art in Paris.
Check out our Paris bike tours, too – we reveal some of our favourite street art gems across the city!
Exploring Paris Street Art: An Introduction
If you’re into street art, Paris is the place to be.
As mentioned, this city has a lively, ever-evolving, and buzzing street art scene that’s a testament to its rich history, diverse culture, and artistic vibe.
Whether it’s the iconic murals in the 13th arrondissement or the quirky stencil pieces in the Marais, Parisian street art is a constantly changing expression of the city’s creative essence.
With its mix of history, politics, and cutting-edge urban creativity, Paris has become a go-to destination for street art enthusiasts, drawing artists and fans from all around the globe.
In this guide, we’ll check out the top spots for street art in Paris, introduce you to some of the city’s most notable street artists, and dive into the projects and events that make Paris a dream for street art fans.
Let’s get going!
Best Areas for Street Art in Paris
Discover Belleville: The Birthplace of Parisian Street Art
First up is Belleville, a neighborhood known for its lively street art scene. Often called the birthplace of Parisian street art, Belleville is a canvas for artists from around the world. Walking its streets virtually feels like exploring an urban art gallery, with its kaleidoscope of murals, stencils, and tags that showcase the area’s diverse and artistic vibe. The street art here vividly reflects the everyday life and culture of its residents.
Don’t miss Rue Denoyez, a street buzzing with new artwork. You’ll find thought-provoking political pieces and humorous creations that will make you smile. Take your time and look closely—many of these works reflect social and cultural issues, offering a unique insight into Parisian life.
**Top Tip:**Wear comfy shoes! Belleville’s streets are best explored on foot, and there’s a hidden gem around every corner.
The Quirky Charm of Le Marais
Next, head to Le Marais, where history meets modernity and street art thrives in its narrow cobblestone streets. Known for its mix of old-world charm and contemporary flair, as well as high-end boutiques, Le Marais is home to some amazing street art.
Check out Place Igor Stravinsky, filled with Jef Aérosol’s colorful work.
His famous “Chuuuttt!!” mural, showing a man with his finger to his lips, is a classic piece that captures the essence of urban Paris.
Top Tip: Visit Le Marais in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the artwork in peace.
The 13th Arrondissement: An Urban Canvas
The 13th arrondissement is a testament to how street art can transform urban spaces into open-air galleries. This area has embraced street art on a grand scale, with massive murals on the sides of buildings.
Head to Boulevard Vincent Auriol, where you’ll find giant murals by famous artists like Obey (Shepard Fairey) and C215. These stunning pieces are visually striking and tell the stories of the artists and their inspirations, creating a unique dialogue between the city and its inhabitants.
Top Tip: Take the metro to the Nationale or Chevaleret stations for easy access to some of the largest and most impressive murals in the area.
The Bohemian Spirit of Montmartre
No street art tour in Paris is complete without hitting Montmartre.
This iconic neighborhood, known for its bohemian roots and rich artistic vibe, still buzzes with creativity.
As you stroll through Montmartre’s charming streets, keep an eye out for Invader’s work, a street artist famous for his quirky pixelated mosaics inspired by old-school video games.
These fun pieces are scattered all over Montmartre, adding a playful touch to an area where the past and present mix effortlessly. There’s an Invader piece right near our Paris base, too!
Top Tip: Download “FlashInvaders” for a fun game of finding Invader’s art across the city!
The Contemporary Art of Oberkampf
We wrap up our street art journey in Oberkampf, a hotspot for modern urban art.
Rue Oberkampf is where the magic happens, with a new mural popping up every month, so there’s always something fresh to check out.
One highlight in Oberkampf is Le Mur, a public art project where artists create temporary murals on a special wall. This ever-changing canvas is a must-see for art fans, showcasing the latest street art trends.
Top Tip: Check out Le Mur’s website or social media before you go to catch your favorite artist in action!
Street Art Culture in Paris
Famous Parisian Street Artists
Paris has been a hotspot for many famous street artists who’ve really shaped the city’s street art vibe.
You’ve got Blek le Rat, often called the father of stencil graffiti, and Invader, who’s known for those cool tile mosaics inspired by old-school video games.
Then there’s Miss Tic, Jef Aérosol, Zevs, JR, and M.CHAT, each bringing their own flair to the scene.
These artists have not only left their mark on Paris but have also inspired a new wave of artists to hit the streets and let their creativity flow.
Street Art Projects and Events in Paris
Paris is buzzing with street art, thanks to tons of projects and events that highlight the city’s vibrant street art culture. One standout is the Street Art Avenue Grand Paris, an urban art trail along the Canal Saint-Denis, showcasing a variety of works by both local and international artists.
Then there’s the Boulevard 13 Project, where 22 street artists from all over the world have come together to create 32 murals in Paris’s 13th district.
And if you’re into festivals, Paris has got you covered with events like the Paris Street Art Festival, which draws artists, curators, and art lovers alike to celebrate the city’s street art vibe.
Tips for Exploring Street Art in Paris
Want to make the most of your street art adventure in Paris? Here are some handy tips:
- Join a Guided Tour: Plenty of local groups offer tours that dig into the stories behind the artworks. It’s a great way to find hidden gems and get the scoop on the art scene.
- Top Tip: Opt for tours led by local artists or experts for deeper insights. Check out our Paris tours if you want to see the city on wheels!
- Go During Daylight: Paris is stunning at night, but street art pops best in daylight when colors and details shine.
- Top Tip: Early mornings mean fewer crowds and perfect light for photos.
- Bring a Camera: Capture murals and artworks to share with friends or add to your travel journal.
- Top Tip: If you’re a photographer, pack a wide-angle lens for big murals and spare batteries and memory cards.
- Respect the Art: Street art is often temporary and fragile. Enjoy it from a distance and avoid touching to keep it intact for others.
- Top Tip: If you stumble upon a work in progress, give the artist space and watch quietly—you might learn something cool.
Dive into the Best Street Art in Paris
Paris is a city that is deeply passionate about street art, and its vibrant street art scene is a reflection of the city’s creative spirit and cultural diversity.
From the iconic murals in the 13th arrondissement to the quirky stencil art in the Marais, Parisian street art is a dynamic and ever-evolving reflection of the city’s artistic heritage.
Whether you’re an art lover, a street art enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique perspective on the city, Paris has something to offer.
Exploring the street art scene in Paris is an exciting way to see the city with new eyes.
Paris is pretty much an open-air museum. With every step, you’ll discover a new layer of this dynamic city and its street art, where creativity is limitless.
So come and explore the city’s street art scene, meet some of the city’s most famous street artists, and discover why Paris is a street art lover’s paradise.
See you in Paris!