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Viaduc des Arts: A Parisian Celebration of Craftsmanship

Discover Parisian craftsmanship at the Viaduc des Arts, a unique blend of history and artistry in the heart of the 12th arrondissement.

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The Viaduc des Arts, a repurposed 19th-century railway viaduct, is now a vibrant hub for artisans and craftspeople in Paris's 12th arrondissement. Its arches house unique workshops and boutiques, offering a glimpse into traditional and contemporary artistic practices.

A brief summary to Viaduct des Arts

  • Monday 10 am-7 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-7 pm
  • Friday 10 am-7 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-7 pm

Local tips

  • Explore the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, an elevated parkway built on the former railway line, offering a unique perspective of the city.
  • Visit during the day to see the artisans at work in their workshops and browse the unique boutiques.
  • Check the official website for a current list of artisans and events, as the shops and galleries can change.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The Viaduc des Arts is easily accessible via the Paris Metro. Take Line 1, 5, or 8 to Bastille station or Line 1 or 14 to Gare de Lyon station, both a short walk away. Several bus lines also stop nearby, including lines 29, 57, 61, and 91. A single metro or bus ticket costs €2.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available throughout Paris and can drop you off directly at the Viaduc des Arts. A short taxi ride from the city center will likely cost between €8 and €15, depending on traffic and distance. Keep in mind that there may be additional charges for booking in advance (€4-€7).

  • Walking

    If you are already in the vicinity of Bastille or Gare de Lyon, walking to the Viaduc des Arts is a pleasant option. From Place de la Bastille, walk east along Avenue Daumesnil. From Gare de Lyon, walk towards Place de la Bastille on Rue de Lyon and then turn right onto Avenue Daumesnil. The Viaduc des Arts is located between these two landmarks.

  • Parking

    If driving, limited street parking is available near the Viaduc des Arts. Several parking garages are also located nearby, including Q-Park Opéra Bastille (34 Rue de Lyon) and Q-Park Daumesnil-Gare de Lyon (27 Rue de Rambouillet). Expect to pay around €4-€6 per hour for parking.

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Discover more about Viaduct des Arts

The Viaduc des Arts, located along Avenue Daumesnil in Paris's 12th arrondissement, is a unique testament to the city's dedication to preserving its history while fostering contemporary creativity. Originally constructed in 1859 to support the Ligne de Vincennes railway, the viaduct provided a crucial transportation link across the city. However, with the railway's closure in 1969, the structure faced an uncertain future. In the 1990s, the city of Paris undertook an ambitious project to transform the abandoned viaduct into a space for artistic expression. Architect Patrick Berger led the rehabilitation, converting the 71 arches into workshops and boutiques for artisans and craftspeople. This innovative repurposing gave new life to the viaduct, turning it into a vibrant center for both Parisians and tourists. Today, the Viaduc des Arts is home to a diverse array of artisans, including glassblowers, cabinetmakers, jewelers, and designers. Visitors can explore these unique workshops, witnessing the creation of exquisite objects and interacting directly with the artists. Above the viaduct, the Coulée Verte René-Dumont, an elevated park, offers a tranquil green space for a stroll. This blend of artistic enterprise and verdant landscape makes the Viaduc des Arts a captivating destination off the beaten path.

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