Coulée Verte René-DumontLong before New York created the High Line, Paris transformed an abandoned railway into an elevated garden stretching nearly five kilometres through the 12th arrondissement.
Today, the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, formerly known as the Promenade Plantée, is claimed to be one of Paris's best-kept secrets but we and others are trying to change this. Beginning near the Place de la Bastille and continuing on to Jardin de Reuilly - Paul Pernin, this peaceful green corridor offers a completely different view of this part of the city. 
Long before New York created the High Line, Paris transformed an abandoned railway into a landscaped walkway stretching nearly five kilometres through the 12th arrondissement.
Today, the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, formerly known as the Promenade Plantée, is claimed to be one of Paris's best-kept secrets but we and others are trying to change this. Beginning near the Place de la Bastille and continuing almost to the Bois de Vincennes, this peaceful green corridor offers a completely different view of the city. Away from the traffic below, you'll wander through landscaped gardens, beneath pergolas, over elegant viaducts and alongside colourful planting, all while enjoying glimpses of rooftops, balconies and quiet residential streets. If you're looking for somewhere to escape the crowds without leaving the city, this is one of Paris's finest walks. A Brief HistoryThe route follows the former Vincennes railway line, opened in 1859 to connect the Bastille railway station with eastern Paris. Passenger services eventually declined, and the line closed in 1969. Rather than demolishing the impressive brick viaduct and elevated railway, the City of Paris chose an innovative solution. Landscape architect Jacques Vergely and architect Philippe Mathieux transformed the disused railway into a linear park. The park opened in 1993, almost twenty years before New York's famous High Line, making it the world's first elevated park created from an abandoned railway. In 2014 it was officially renamed Coulée Verte René-Dumont, honouring the French agronomist and environmental pioneer René Dumont. Practical information |
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Where Does It Start?The western entrance is close to:
- Place de la Bastille
- Opéra Bastille
- Gare de Lyon
- Porte de Montempoivre
- Bois de Vincennes
Approximately 4.7 km (2.9 miles)
Allow around 90 minutes for a leisurely walk, longer if you stop for photographs.
Highlights Along the Walk
Viaduc des ArtsThe walk begins above the magnificent Viaduc des Arts.
The former railway arches now house artisan workshops, galleries, furniture makers, cafés and design studios, making this one of Paris's most interesting shopping streets.
Elevated GardensThe planting changes throughout the year.
Expect to find:
- roses
- lavender
- ornamental grasses
- climbing plants
- mature trees
- seasonal flowers
Rooftop Views
One of the greatest pleasures is seeing Paris from just a little higher than normal street level.
Instead of famous monuments, you'll notice:
- wrought-iron balconies
- hidden courtyards
- mansard roofs
- chimney pots
- rooftop terraces
- unexpected architectural details
Tunnels and Cuttings
Not every section is elevated.
Parts of the route descend into former railway cuttings, creating cool, leafy corridors that feel surprisingly secluded despite being in the heart of Paris.
Towards the Bois de Vincennes
As you head east, the city gradually becomes quieter before the walk finishes near the Bois de Vincennes, Paris's largest public park.
It's an ideal place to continue your day with a lakeside stroll or picnic.
How to Get ThereWestern entranceMétro:
- Bastille
- Gare de Lyon
- Ledru-Rollin
- Reuilly-Diderot
- Montgallet
- Porte de Montempoivre
- Michel Bizot
Best Time to VisitEvery season offers something different.
Spring
Fresh blossom and colourful planting.
Summer
Dense greenery provides welcome shade.
Autumn
Golden leaves create some of the best photographic opportunities.
Winter
Excellent architectural views once the leaves have fallen.
Early morning is especially peaceful, while late afternoon provides warm light for photography.
Photography TipsSome of the best images include:
- looking along the tree-lined walk
- views across Paris rooftops
- elegant apartment buildings
- hidden gardens
- Viaduc des Arts
- architectural details seen from above
Nearby AttractionsThe Coulée Verte links naturally with several attractions:
- Place de la Bastille
- Opéra Bastille
- Gare de Lyon
- Viaduc des Arts
- Marché d'Aligre
- Bercy Village
- Parc de Bercy
- Bois de Vincennes
- Cinémathèque Française
- Cité de la Mode et du Design
Practical Information
Length: approximately 4.7 km
Time: 1½ to 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Suitable for families: Yes
Suitable for photography: Excellent
Nearest Métro: Bastille, Gare de Lyon, Ledru-Rollin, Reuilly-Diderot, Montgallet, Michel Bizot and Porte de Montempoivre.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the Coulée Verte René-Dumont?An elevated park created on a former railway line through Paris's 12th arrondissement.
Is it the same as the Promenade Plantée?Yes. Promenade Plantée was its original name. It is now officially called the Coulée Verte René-Dumont.
Is it free?Yes. Admission is free.
How long does it take to walk?
Around 90 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Is it suitable for children?Yes. It is largely traffic-free and ideal for families.
Which is better: the Coulée Verte or the High Line?The High Line is more famous, but the Coulée Verte is older, longer and generally much quieter. It offers a more authentic neighbourhood experience, with fewer crowds and a stronger sense of everyday Paris.
Final Thoughts
The Coulée Verte René-Dumont is one of those places that rewards curiosity. While many visitors focus on Paris's famous monuments, this elevated park offers a slower, greener way to experience the city. Whether you're interested in architecture, photography, gardens or simply escaping the bustle for an hour or two, it's a walk that reveals a different side of Paris—one that many visitors never discover.