The Promenade Plantée makes great use of an old elevated railroad viaduct to create a beautiful and unique raised garden that runs from the Bastille to the Bois de Vincennes.

Although the whole walk is about 4.5 km (just under 3 miles) the most interesting part is the first section, on the elevated viaduct, between the Bastille and the Jardin de Reuilly (about 1.5 km).

As you walk, you're at about the third floor level of nearby buildings and get an unusual perspective on Paris and its architecture. At the same time, you're walking through gorgeous plantings ranging from roses to flowering trees to bamboo.

Under the elevated section is the Viaduct des Arts, a series of workshops and stores devoted to crafts ranging from furniture design to fashion to art restoration.

Periodically staircases lead down to the Viaduct des Arts and to a variety of cafés and shops, should you want a break from your walk or a snack en route.

The railroad ran for over 100 years, stopping operation in 1969. For a couple decades the property deteriorated, until the Promenade Plantée and the Viaduct des Arts were created in the 1990s.

The Promenade Plantée runs largely through the 12th arrondissement, an area often neglected by tourists. Starting at the Bastille, you can enjoy an easy walk and return by métro (several stops to choose from depending on where you end your walk).

Métro: Bastille

Promenade Plantée

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