Promenade Plantée - Coulée Verte

Promenade Plantée – A Green Walk Above the City

Long before New York’s High Line, Paris created its own elevated park on a disused railway. The Promenade Plantée, also known as the Coulée Verte, opened in 1993 and stretches for nearly 5 kilometers through the 12th arrondissement.

The path begins near the Opéra Bastille and runs on top of the old Vincennes railway viaduct. Walking along it, you move above the city streets, surrounded by trees, flowers, and climbing plants. It feels like a secret garden in the middle of Paris.

Along the way, you’ll find benches, pergolas, and quiet spots to pause. The route also passes through tunnels and open green spaces, giving constant variety. Locals use it for jogging, walking their dogs, or simply escaping the traffic below.

The Promenade Plantée inspired urban designers worldwide and directly influenced the creation of the High Line in New York. For visitors, it offers a refreshing perspective on the city – peaceful, green, and surprisingly little known to many tourists.

Wikipedia